Lacey Clark's dreams of Hollywood stardom didn't turn out quite the way she planned. Instead, her life is more of the daytime-drama variety: One of her actor ex-boyfriends fathered a child with another woman, and now, long story short, Lacey is the adopted single mother of his son. She takes little Henry with her to South Carolina to escape the film business but winds up working at a small movie studio, determined to do a good job both on set and at "home." Only problem is she ends up sharing a house with movie star Beau Wilder, who is no role model for Henry-and only spells trouble for Lacey...
LEAD TO A HAPPY ENDING?
Beau is arguably the most gorgeous man on the planet-and a known ladies' man. His wealthy Lowcountry pedigree is rivaled only by his bad-boy charm, a combination that proves irresistible for Lacey. And he adores Henry! If they weren't both on a movie set, their lives would seem too good to be true...unless the chemistry-not to mention the burning attraction-between them is real, and Hollywood's golden boy is actually falling for this sassy single mom? When it comes to love, sometimes you just have to throw out the script...
USA Today bestselling author Kieran Kramer currently writes fun contemporary romance with a Southern flair for St. Martin’s Press. She lives where she grew up–in the Lowcountry of South Carolina–with her family. The first two books in her three-book TWO LOVE LANE series are on shelves now. The third book, SECOND CHANCE AT TWO LOVE LANE, comes out 8-28-18. Find Kieran on Instagram, Pinterest, Facebook, and Twitter and at kierankramer.com.
Lacey had set off to California with stars in her eyes and the course set to become the most famous actress in the world. What Lacey got though was a couple of B movies, one of which became a quick cult classic, and enough disasters to have her leaving with her adopted son Henry. Lacey lands in South Carolina as a fluke as her actor ex-boyfriend rented a lighthouse and his assistant felt so bad for her she handed over the keys for a short vacation.
Little did Lacey know that her ex had also handed over the property to actor Beau Wilder. Beau has a reputation of being a playboy and Lacey wants him nowhere near his son, but Beau has no plans of leaving. Beau knew who Lacey was the moment he met her and he is finding himself falling for the woman who has quickly become his closest friend. However Lacey is a forever type of gal now and Beau is not looking to settle, even if he would love to be a permanent figure in their lives.
Absolutely loved this one. I grew up watching movies with my dad and the cult classics as well as the movie trivia instantly pulled me in. Lacey was pure sass and a little pinup a perfect combination for Beau. A fantastic summer read.
Complimentary copy provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
Lacey is a single mom whom had been working in L.A. as the assistant to a Hollywood starlet. When said starlet runs away with Lacey’s boyfriend, Lacey decides to pack up and move back to South Carolina, a place where she spent a lot of her youth. With nothing more than the clothes on their backs and a borrowed ambulance as transportation, she and her son move in to a beachfront rental that her ex-boyfriend was supposed to have been living in while shooting a movie at a local studio. Her former boyfriend is no longer on the job so she moves her and her son Henry right in, ready to start a brand new life. Unfortunately as Lacey goes to find a new job, she soon learns that fitting into the small tourist town might be harder than she had expected. When she meets Mike, a single father of two and the director of the production being filmed at the local studio, she secures a job as his nanny, as well as the caregiver for his pathological liar father in law.
Beau is a Hollywood actor that is known for his action movies that draw the masses to the box office. A clause in his contract states that he must star in one indie movie, and he has been cast as in a supporting role in Flowers From the Heart, an indie chick flick that Beau has no desire starring in, especially in a supporting role. To make matters worse, his accommodations for the duration of filming seem to have been taken over by Lacey and her son, causing Beau to have to be on his best behavior. Shooting in Charleston was supposed to have been his chance to reconnect to his friends and family as he is back in his hometown, but the nights of debauchery with old high school friends are going to have to go by the wayside with a five year old in the house.
After having been burned by two actors she had dated, Lacey has very little desire to get involved with yet another. Even though there is a sexual tension between her and Beau, she vows to not let herself fall prey to Beau’s advances. But the known playboy quickly becomes attached not only to Lacey, but to her son as well, something that bothers Lacey immensely. She’s not up for putting Henry’s heart on the line if he gets attached and Beau goes on his way at the end of shooting. Can Beau prove to her that his intentions go beyond more than just physical attraction? Can Lacey ever put her exes past indiscretions behind her in an attempt to move on, or are all actors the same?
There are several laugh out loud moments, mostly at Lacey’s expense. Her brief stint as a D-list actress has led her to have an almost cult-like following. She is known as a Hollywood jinx, her mere presence on the set has been known to make a movie or the director himself tank completely. We quickly learn though that all Lacey needs is for someone to take a chance on her. Whether it be Mike, her new employer, or Beau, the possible love interest, she is ready to prove that she’s not the woman everyone seems to think she is and is ready to move on, past her time in Hollywood.
You’re So Fine is a fun, sweet romance that takes the reader on a journey to find what the definition of family really means. Lacey had a tough life as a child and never seemed to measure up in her mother’s eyes, always playing second chair to her sister that seemed to do no wrong. When Beau steps in to help make it clear to her parents that they are obviously missing out on a relationship with not only her, but their only grandchild as well, he instantly becomes swoon-worthy. Lacey is a strong character that understands where her priorities lie, with her son. There are no big surprises in this book; it is a little predictable, but at the same time it hits the spot if you’re looking for a light read with a great storyline and well developed characters. This would make a great beach read and is perfect for fans of standalone happily ever afters. Four and half stars.
If you’ve follow me long enough, you know my love of Kieran Kramer’s work. She’s one of my favorite romance writers, and for good reason. Her stories and characters are always so vibrant. I got an advanced copy of this book and promised a review in return, so here it is. There are some spoilers, but I’ll try to leave it at a minimum.
It all starts on a stormy night. Lacey Clark, disillusioned with Hollywood after a failed career and recently dumped by her A-List boyfriend for the actress she was assisting, she takes her son and moves to the other side of the country to Indigo Beach, South Carolina, lo spend a little time in a borrowed lighthouse until she figures everything out.
Into her life comes a storm of another kind: Beau Wilder. He’s a big-name star in his own right, something Lacey wished to avoid. He’s been in many action movies, but, due to a small clause in his contract, he has to work on an artsy movie that he very much dislikes. And it shows. He almost got fired from the movie because of it. But Lacey gives him some pointers and it helps him become a better actor than before.
Lacey gets a job working with the director of the movie Beau is in taking care of his kids and keeping an eye on his wily father-in-law Dickey, who loves to tell stories. Seeing them on set every day and in the lighthouse they are sharing, Beau starts to fall for Lacey and Henry, and in turn they both fall for him.
Over time we discover the many secrets that are kept in Hollywood (Lacey was in a small series of flops and was known as a jinx ever since, forcing her to hide her identity in her current position) and in old money of the South (Beau’s parents kept secrets from him and the world). And we also find out that some of them may not as big or as important or unforgivable as they can seem at first.
This book, like all romance novels, was full of ups and downs. There were sweet moments and steamy, sexy moments that all left me wanting more and more. I laughed and I cried and I laughed some more. Kieran Kramer’s narrative is all over the place in a good way. I cannot give her books any higher recommendation. If you’re looking for good romance novel, you should pick this one up when it comes available December 30th. And any of her other books in the meantime.
Lacey Clark, a single mother and ex-actress struggling to support her son, is forced to share accommodations with heartthrob movie star Beau Wilder for a few weeks while he shoots his latest movie.
Neither of them is happy with the arrangement, but neither can deny the attraction between them. Lacey has no room for men in her life, however especially actors, and Beau doesn't want a relationship.
Unfortunately, Lacey has trouble finding a job and ends up working for the director of Beau's new movie. Beau is also having trouble with his role, which is far from his usual ones and he is contractually obligated to see through. He just wants to get it done and go back to his life, but when the director pricks his ego, he asks for Lacey's help to understand his character.
The three of them get close and for a while feel like a family, but their lives are taking them in different directions and a relationship between them does not seem to be in the cards.
Enjoyable story with the expected happily ever after, lighthouse included.
Lacey is leaving her life in LA with her son Henry to more to a little town in South Carolina. Considered a jinx in the movie industry-- not to mention her now exboyfriend running away with her boss--Lacey is starting over. With no money, she accepts the lighthouse her boyfriend was supposed to be living in during his movie shoot and moves in. What she doesn't expect is for hollywoods heartthrob to move in also.
Beau is everything Lacey doesn't want. For one he's an actor, not to mention he doesn't do relationships. However, she will admit that he is ridiculously attractive if not a bit of an ass when they first meet. Slowly but surely the trio become close. Lacey's son Henry takes and instant liking to Beau as does Beau to Henry (melt my heart) When one secret turns into more and elaborate lies are formed its only a matter of time until everything comes to light.
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I loved this book, Henry and Beau was seriously adorable. I loved the scenes with the two of them. I will admit Lacey tended to get on my nerves she was all over the place with her emotions and finally gets what she wants only to say no? Confused.
I loved hoe the charters grew throughout the book, not just the main one withers but also the many minor characters as well. And the little twist at the end was such a surprising shock that I didn't really see coming even though signs were there.
The ending was the only thing I was confused about, are they staying or traveling? Plus she never told Beau what she was doing work wise which was confusing as well.
This one just didn't work for me. I didn't like Beau at all; he ran really hot and cold for me. I liked Lacey better, but she just needed more of a backbone. He shows up at the door of the lighthouse she's subletting in the middle of the night, a complete stranger, and insists on coming inside. She says no, because, again, stranger, and her child is asleep upstairs, but after about two minutes of "I'm coming in", "No, you're not.", she gives up and opens the door for him because... I don't know why. And "they're Southern and that's how it goes" doesn't work from me. Lacey is a really good mom, and I just can't see her letting this stranger into her home with her sleeping child in the middle of the night because Southern hospitality says she has to. I am not, however, Southern, so maybe I'm wrong about that.
Beau was great with Henry, Lacey's son, completely winning him over immediately. I liked how they interacted, and when it was the three of them it was great. But, man. Beau and Lacey together did nothing for me. I fully understand that Lacey wouldn't want a bunch of drinking and smoking and whatnot around Henry. But for her to be so uptight about the one night Beau brought some guys over for poker, especially since they waited to start until after Henry went to bed. She sat there in a chair three feet away, knitting and giving them the stink eye every time they opened a beer. And they each had two beers. That's it. Two beers each. Since she did decide to open the door to a complete stranger that first night and let him in, and decide they should both live there in the lighthouse, she can't expect him to come home every night and sit in his room silently until the morning. But, on the other hand, since he knows how Lacey feels about it, showing up with 3 loud friends and heavily implying that he's going to keep them there late playing poker and getting completely drunk and smoking cigars by the dozen specifically because he's upset that she.... I don't know, asked him if he was going to be home for dinner or something, is a little passive-aggressive and just silly. Not endearing.
Beau, who's an actor, heard some gossip about Lacey from when she was an actress, and weirdly decides that she's a jinx on movie sets, and gets upset any time she's on the set. Which is often, because she's nannying for the director's six-year-old twins. Apparently, on this set, "jinx" translates to "giving script suggestions that markedly improves the story." It also means that's the reason his aforementioned poker game didn't go very well. Because Lacey was sitting nearby and she's a jinx.
They decided to do everything except have actual intercourse, for reasons I didn't understand, then finally sleep together right after saying "I love you", then immediately decide to break up because of his career. She wants to stay in Indigo Beach and he travels around on movie sets. Apparently no actor on earth is able to make a relationship work while making movies. Except for.... well, most actors in Hollywood. Which is exactly what they end up deciding to do at the end of the book, so that whole discussion was pretty much for nothing.
I didn't hate this book, but I just didn't buy Beau and Lacey together. There was no real connection between them when Henry wasn't around to be a buffer. Unfortunately, this was just a miss for me.
After reading the blurb, I thought I was going to be reading about a lot of drama going on in Lacey's life. Instead, I got very little drama but lots of emotional and heart wrenching moments that made up one fantastic story. It took the first chapter to dispel me of my notions and capture my attention for good. I was intrigued by Lacey and Henry and even more so once Beau entered the scene. The three of them stole my heart.
I really admired Lacey and her attitude. She's one tough woman. I hated having to watch her struggle so much, but I loved how she was determined to handle her problems on her own. Another thing I loved about her besides her determination, was her heart. She had so much love to give and the love she had for Henry was simply inspiring. The chemistry she shared with Beau was almost palpable. I liked Beau. He was a true Southern man. I loved him for his kindness to others and I loved how he was with his family.
Emotionally, this book is a complete 10. Story wise, there was a twist at the end which was a surprise, but it seemed almost extraneous. However for the most part I'd give the story line a solid 8 out of 10. I'd be really hard pressed to tell you a favorite moment or scene from this book. If I wasn't laughing because of something Dickey said, or the twins did, then I was swooning as Beau tried to romance Lacey, or feeling Lacey's hurt as she tried to feel a connection between her son and her parents.
There were some moments in this book that were tough to read. They weren't dark revelations, but just hard hitting moments. I often had tears in my eyes and a smile on my lips as I read. I really think Kieran Kramer has done a fantastic job with her sophomore contemporary novel. It feels like she's hit her stride with this book. I can't wait to see what she writes next! I'm hoping it'll be another contemporary novel.
I enjoyed seeing Lacey and Beau getting together, it was a little wordy but I love how the romance between them took a bit longer instead of being rushed.
The big plus for me was Henry, loved that little man! From the moment he meets Beau he cracked me up, such a smart and bright 5 year old =)
Overall a fun and heartwarming read.
Thank you Netgalley and St. Martin's Press for the advance copy in exchange for my honest thoughts.
Southern Belle, Lacey Clark, had a dream to become an actress. To get away from a cold mother and hostile step father, she takes off for Hollywood. But beautiful as she is, her acting skills aren't and she gets a reputation as a jinx on the set. She also is not a very good judge of character and after her ex boyfriend cheats on her with a teenager and fathers a child that neither of the parents wants, she adopts him. Several years later, after her current boyfriend, Callum, takes off with her boss, she decides to go back to South Carolina. Callum's agent, gives her the keys to a lighthouse at Indigo Beach, that Callum had rented, and another friend lends her a "car" (ambulance). When Callum and her boss reneged on the movie to be filmed there, Beau Wilder, Hollywood's golden boy, was contractually obligated to take a part. Callum meanwhile gave him permission to use the lighthouse. While not happy to find Lacey and Henry, her son, in the lighthouse, he is too much of a southern gentleman to throw them out. Callum has his own demons that he is dealing with and Lacey and Henry's presence helps him. This book is a lot about throwing away old hurts and growth. With a HEA.
The characters are charming and even the secondary ones are well developed. The plot has some interesting twists. I very much enjoyed reading it.
About the book: Lacey Clark's dreams of Hollywood stardom didn't turn out quite the way she planned. Instead, her life is more of the daytime-drama variety: One of her actor ex-boyfriends fathered a child with another woman, and now, long story short, Lacey is the adopted single mother of his son. She takes little Henry with her to South Carolina to escape the film business but winds up working at a small movie studio, determined to do a good job both on set and at "home." Only problem is she ends up sharing a house with movie star Beau Wilder, who is no role model for Henry-and only spells trouble for Lacey...
LEAD TO A HAPPY ENDING?
Beau is arguably the most gorgeous man on the planet-and a known ladies' man. His wealthy Lowcountry pedigree is rivaled only by his bad-boy charm, a combination that proves irresistible for Lacey. And he adores Henry! If they weren't both on a movie set, their lives would seem too good to be true...unless the chemistry-not to mention the burning attraction-between them is real, and Hollywood's golden boy is actually falling for this sassy single mom? When it comes to love, sometimes you just have to throw out the script.
Very good I absolutely loved this book the characters were great! The setting was brilliant!
Free e-book from the library. An easy read, lots of sexy romance. Guess I just found the main character annoying so didn't like this as much as her previous books.
Note: This ARC was provided by St. Martin's Press via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
You're So Fine is a contemporary romance written by Kieran Kramer and is the first book by this particular author that I've read. This is a multi-layered story of a single mother trying to find her niche in the world and swearing off romantic relationships with actors. A twist of fate has her sharing a lighthouse with one of the most famous and sought after actors in Hollywood and what follows is the evolution of their relationship as a couple and their own personal evolutions as individuals with childhoods that emotionally scarred them.
Lacey Clark has pretty much had to fend for herself for as long as she can remember, but then she's never really put herself first. Her father died when she was very young and her mother and stepfather have never been very supportive of her. Her ex-boyfriends may have been good looking actors but neither of them gave her the happily-ever-after she wanted. The one good thing in her life is her adopted son Henry, and as they try to re-start their lives on Indigo Beach, the unexpected appearance of a certain actor will make them realize what they've both been missing.
Beau Wilder likes being an actor and the fact that he's made a name for himself in big-budgeted blockbuster movies. When he's forced by a contract he signed at the beginning of his career to work on an independent film so far and beyond what he's used to doing, he foresees a tortuous few weeks of shooting. What he doesn't plan for is sharing a lighthouse with a single mother who both captivates and frustrates him and her young son who brings light and laughter and discovering that he's much more than he gives himself credit for, both as a man and as an actor.
A former actress in B movies, Lacey has earned herself a reputation as being a jinx and overly opinionated, cutting short whatever career in show business she was hoping for. Since then, she's tried to find her footing in jobs that she knows she can handle. What she needs, however, is something more permanent, especially since she's promised Henry that they would finally call one place, Indigo Beach, home. She's not prepared to get involved with someone like Beau, especially since she knows his career is going to be taking him places, both literally and figuratively.
Beau may have come from old money in South Carolina but he's worked hard to become independent and create a brand in the movie industry. Behind the fame and fortune lies a past that has made Beau question his parents' marriage and their family. While he knows he can't give Lacey the sense of permanence that she needs and deserves, Beau finds himself falling for her and little Henry. But even as he's ready to offer her some sort of security regarding their relationship, Lacey lets him go, believing that it's for the best and that he isn't ready to commit to a life with her and Henry.
I'll be honest, it took a while for me to warm up to the story and the characters, specifically Lacey. I couldn't convince myself that there was any real chemistry between her and Beau and there was something about her that just didn't appeal to me right away. By the second half of the book, my opinion of her started to improve, though it did flip-flop for a bit. She was like this strange mix of a bossy Southern belle and a needy martyr. But, like I said, she did grow on me and there were definite moments that I was cheering her on, wanting her to finally stand up for herself.
While I did have some back and forth with regards to my feelings on this book, by the time I had finished reading it, I felt satisfied and happy with the outcome. The twist regarding little Timothy Brenner was interesting though I did have questions with the lack of familiarity of the lighthouse and location from one particular character. I also wondered about the motivations regarding some of the actions of the main characters. Still, it was a pretty good read and maybe something that readers wanting some Southern romance will want to check out. You're So Fine gets 3.5 stars, rounded off to four stars. ♥
You're So Fine, Kieran Kramer Review from Jeannie Zelos book reviews My first book by this author so I wasn’t sure what to expect. I got the romance I love, and some of the drama, though that’s a little low key for me, but I also got a male lead with fabulous Southern charm, a female lead with wit and spark and Henry – the most wonderful little boy anyone could wish for. He was a real star, so sweet, so intelligent and forgiving, and in some ways old beyond his years, and then he’d say something that brought home to me that really he was just a little boy, wanting things all kids should have, people who love him, a stable and happy home, and lots of fun in life. That’s really not too much to ask is it? Still, poor Henry has just Lacey, and her mum and stepfather, who don’t really approve of the adoption. She’s still trying to win their love but its a tough struggle, and I feel like she’s someone who just wants everyone to see the best in her, who’ll bend over backwards to help people – as she has in the past – and she’s just been taken for granted. I’d have liked to know more about how she and Henry came together ( maybe that’s in another of Kieran’s books?) I love Lacey, ( yes and Lucy, I loved watching that when I was a kid) and she’s trying so hard to make a home for Henry, and be the perfect parent. She’s not had much example though from her own mum and stepfather....Then Beau drops into their life and though the first meeting doesn’t go well, its not long before he’s charmed his way into Lacey and Henry’s life. Henry adore him – and who wouldn’t? He’s got the charm adults love, he’s a really genuinely pleasant man, and he’s fun with Henry....treats him as a peer, or perhaps its that Henry treats him as a child, and brings out the fun side of Beau at a time when people treat him too often as just the film star he is, and not Beau the man. Lacey and Henry don’t do that and he appreciates it, people who see him for what he is. Its not long before they are closer...and much closer, though Lacey puts a line down sexually which she won’t cross. She knows Beau will go when the film is over, only a few weeks away, and she needs stability for Henry, and wants to protect her own heart. The film crew are great too, from Mike the director, a kind man, his young twins Carol and Bob who become fast friends with Henry. They’re like a tiny three Musketeers with an honorary fourth in Dickie, Mike’s father in law, who delights in stories and lies and is adored by the kids. Its a beautiful romance, not angsty and full of heart stopping drama, but one that creeps up slowly sucking the reader into another world, twisting and turning as other plot lines creep in and secrets come out. Its a really enjoyable read with a perfect satisfying ending. Its the sort of read I’ll pick up when I want a reminder of how people can be good, how there are genuinely nice types around ( though there’s a few nasty b itches here too) and I just want to relax and slide into a world of sunshine, beaches and happiness. Stars: four and a half, it doesn’t quite have enough for five from me but is close. ARC supplied by Netgalley and publishers.
Kieran Kramer writes another addicting, can't put this down so I won't go to sleep until I finish romance. You're So Fine is another clear winner!
Lacey Clark is a woman on a mission. Lacey ran away from her life in the South straight to Hollywood, where the things didn't necessarily turn out the way she had expected. After a few roles in some obscure movies, Lacey found herself with a number of less-than-perfect Hollywood Hotties. In a tale straight from a soap opera, Lacey was cheated on by one of those actor boyfriends and found herself adopting the result of that affair when she realized that she was meant to be the mother of his son. Some years later, she and Henry find themselves hightailing it from Hollywood and landing at a lighthouse in South Carolina which was leased by yet another Hollywood boyfriend that bailed on her with another woman - and a woman for whom she worked for, too! Lacey just can't seem to catch a break with those lying and cheating Hollywood-types.
Just when Lacey thinks that things will be okay for her and Henry, she learns that they're not going to be the only occupants of the lighthouse as someone shows up at the door unannounced. Just her luck, too, as it turns out to be Hollywood Hearthrob Beau Wilder. How is Lacey supposed to do better for herself and her son with such a distraction on hand? That distraction turns out to be very unhappy at having to not only be in South Carolina shooting a movie he wants no part of, but to also have to share a living space with a small child and his mom is a bit too much. Then again, that mom just happens to be very good looking and Beau can't help himself from getting involved... but can the two hardheaded people get along in such small living quarters? Both Lacey and Beau have issues to deal with. Their biggest worry is about having another person involved in their lives and they question whether past history will dictate how things turn out or if there will be some Hollywood Magic happening.
Kieran Kramer has a way about spinning a tale that is both whimsical and moving. Lacey and Beau are characters that are full of life and despite all the crap life has thrown their way they've made the decision to do something about it willingly or with some prodding. Kramer is very good at showing the character's thoughts and feelings as they progress on their journey to happiness, which only captivates the reader even more. The cast of side-characters is also very well thought out; no matter who the character is, they serve an integral part in the main character's story and often provide a touch of humor.
First Line: "Lacey Clark was one of those GRITS women - a Girl Raised In The South - and knew all about Scarlett O'Hara and Tara and how to hang on during rough times."
The blurb for You're So Fine really pulled me in and I thought the story would be more about Lacey and dealing with her cheating boyfriends and raising a baby and meeting Beau and dealing with being in the limelight and her past, which is not the case at all!
Henry is five years old in You're So Fine and there's barely any mention to his Father other than repeating the storyline of how Lacey came to be his only parent. The story line is actually much further along than what the blurb states and while I wanted to enjoyed it, I really struggled.
Lacey has moved back to the south and is determined to give Henry a stable and happy life and Lacey thinks moving back to the south will help. The problem is she's an unsuccessful actress, with no other job prospects and no savings. She's living rent free in her ex-boyfriend's light house for six weeks hoping to figure it out. When Beau turns up and demands she and Henry move out because he's actually renting it, while he's filming.
Beau was mostly an arrogant jerk that I couldn't always warm up to. I felt his character changed a lot and he almost gave me whiplash trying to keep up with his mood changes. Also Beau grew up in the town Lacey has moved to and he has to film in and he has relationship problems with his mother and meeting her expectations.
Lacey was a better character but not the type of character I usually go for but she tried to be better and focus on her and Henry but they both got a bit too attached to Beau and obviously there were problems.
The best parts of You're So Fine we definitely between Beau and Henry, although You're So Fine does have some humour and interesting banter between Beau and Lacey and other characters but I felt that at times the author wasn't sure what she was doing with Beau and Lacey. There was just something off with the writing in You're So Fine that didn't gel well for me.
Which made some part's unbearable for me to read, some parts interesting and other a pure delight.
You’re So Fine by Kieran Kramer is a sweet romance novel. We meet our heroine Lacey at the beginning, as she is traveling with her adopted son, Henry. Lacey, after discovering her actor boyfriend was having an affair, left Hollywood for South Carolina. She wants to put her days in Hollywood far behind, and takes advantage of a rented lighthouse being offered to her for free for a couple of months until she can get her life on track. Lacey is low on funds, but plans to look for a job, while in South Carolina. But before the night is out, an unexpected person arrives to the lighthouse, leaving Lacey fighting to be able to stay.
Beau Wilder, is our hero, and he is a well-known Hollywood hearthrob, who arrives to film a movie. Beau at first was a bit arrogant, and wanted to force Lacey out of the lighthouse. Needless to say, they did not get off on the right foot, as the lines were drawn as to who would stay. Beau the following morning will meet Lacey’s son, Henry, who helps set the stage for them to share the abode.
Henry was adorable, and his scenes with Beau, Lacey and another character, Dickey were very enjoyable. Both Lacey and Beau were a bit stubborn, trying to avoid each other, but a slow built romance develops. However, both know that this is not a long term relationship, since Beau will move on, as his life is always on the go to the next set. That doesn’t stop them from eventually acting on their lust for each other, but it does create emotional angst. In the midst of their slowly developing relationship, are family issues from both Lacey and Beau’s family that plays a big part in the story.
What follows is a sweet romance, with a movie background setting; a couple that was doomed from the start; a young boy who helps bring them closer, and families that need to resolve their relationships.. I recommend this book to anyone who loves romance, a sexy couple, with a cute child as part of the story.
Rated 3.5 out of 5 Blue Ribbons. Review courtesy of Romance Junkies.
Lacey Clarke has had it with all men. She pinned all of her hopes and dreams on her last relationship and look how that turned out; her ex-boyfriend ran off with another woman. It is time for Lacey to focus on her own career. She leaves California behind and finds a nice little place to stay back in her home state, South Carolina. She hopes to make a fresh start with her adopted son, Henry. They have not even made it through the first night when an unexpected guest shows up demanding to be let in.
It seems wires were crossed somewhere and actor Beau Wilder will be sharing his temporary residence with Lacey. Beau likes Lacey from the beginning. He recognizes her from her a past movie she was in and from her recent breakup on the news with her ex. When Lacey comes to work on the set with him, it is all Beau can do to keep his hands to himself. He has even come to enjoy all the time he spends outside of work with Lacey and Henry. Beau has fallen for Lacey, but he knows she is still raw from her recent breakup. How can he convince her he is a stand-up guy and wants to be in it with her and Henry for the long haul.
Although historical romance is my go-to genre, I could not pass up a contemporary romance by a favorite author of mine, Kieran Kramer. Do not get me wrong, I do like contemporaries, but very few authors do it for me and somehow I just knew Ms. Kramer would and she did. Her writing skills really bring the characters to life in YOU'RE SO FINE. Sassy, southern beauty, Lacey Clarke even reminded me of someone I know. I love this gal. I found myself laughing and crying while reading YOU'RE SO FINE. Kudos to Ms. Kramer for writing such a sweet, yet sensual romance that I did not want to put down.
You’re So Fine is the most absolutely wonderful book I have read in a long, long time. I truly enjoyed the last book by Kieran Kramer, thinking it was a 5 star book. This one is a 7 star book.
Usually I do not enjoy or even finish books about actors but Kieran Kramer molded Beau into a lovable Southern gentleman. Even when he tried to behave badly, I still liked him, though I’m sure I’m closer to his mother’s age instead of Lacey’s. Lacey is the perfect modern Southern woman. Full of sass, grit and charm, not to mention a very good mother when she has such a poor role model. Then Henry could not help but melt the hardest of hearts, which Walt probably has. The secondary characters were just as wonderfully written. Yes, they were an eclectic group each fully fits into the whole group.
The setting is vividly described so that I felt as if I was at the beach myself or at the very least missing not be there now. I know the Carolina beaches well and it is obvious that Ms. Kramer does too.
The story is one I couldn’t wait to finish but was so sad to see it end. At first, it seemed like it would be a simple love story but it developed into more of an intricate family story. I was not so surprised at Beau’s family issues, there were enough hints given for me to figure those out. However, the twist with Lacey and the lighthouse blew me away. I never saw any of that coming. Tears and smiles galore for that.
This story surpasses most of the contemporary romance out there. It should be on every romance readers TBR list.
5++ stars Copy provided by NetGalley for an honest review.
This South Carolina romance is much more than just a quick beach read. It is a lengthy story filled with many supporting characters who grow and develop and truly contribute to the plot. They are not just there to listen to the two main characters and offer them advice as is so often the case in romance stories.Their parts in revealing the main characters' childhood issues and secrets help paint a rich story.
Both Beau and Lacy are very well-drawn characters with rich back stories and a unique love story. Lacy's adopted son Henry is so precious and steals very scene, never being relegated to the background to give Lacy and Beau time alone.One of the best parts of this book was to watch how patient and loving Lacy was as a mother and how well Beau connected with and grew to love Henry as well.
My only complaint was that so much attention was given elsewhere that Beau and Lacy's romance wasn't always given the time it deserved.Both characters seemed too selfish to give to make the family work for Henry. The ending at the lighthouse was a great idea, but after so many pages of detail, the book ended pretty abruptly without resolving much. But 4.5 stars here for a strong, special, well-written, feel-good romance with substance. This is my first book by Kramer, but it won't be my last.
Beau and Lacey's relationship I loved: "You'd better wear a bikini," Beau said over his shoulder. Lacey's knees almost gave out. "I don't have one." "It's a bikini or nothing." "Fine!" she said, angry as hell. "I'll get a bikini." Their attraction was a slow one but that didn't mean Beau didn't flirt, and little by little let Lacey know he was into her, "he lingered a second too long. "You're definitely not an iron maiden," he said with a grin. "And I wish you'd wear those shorts every day." As the book goes on we kind of see Beau lose his patience with chasing his girl so he goes in for a more direct approach, "consider how many hours we've already spent together." He played putting a hickey on her neck, his man fingers pulling her closer, up against a hard-as-granite erection." The boy only has so much self control, "you'd better go get Henry before I take you outside to that ambulance and have my way with you in the back." I liked this book, I liked the story and I loved the characters.
“Do you like him?” For once, Lacey wasn’t going to lie to her. “Yes,” she whispered. A beat of silence went by. “Then go after him.” Simone’s voice cracked–so unlike her. “Just do it, Lacey. Be brave and inspire the rest of us.”
What do you get when you pair up a gorgeous movie superstar and a feisty single mom, both with Southern charm and attitude? Pure, unadulterated fun.
Beau and Lacey’s romance was something wonderful. Author Kieran Kramer managed to take two people who tended to be a tad melodramatic (they were actors, after all) and infused laughter, emotional soul-searching, and passion into their relationship with ease. To me, following Beau and Lacey on their journey to happiness was so realistic that I felt like I was invested in the outcome.
Lacey, amidst a scandal, moves with her adopted son, Henry, to Indigo Beach to get away from Hollywood. Beau, a famous movie star, shows up at the beach house and they end up sharing the house and getting to know each other.
I loved the way Lacey dealt with the couple at the car dealership and the way she dealt with the snooty shop owner. Family dynamics play a huge part in this story and it is interesting to find out why the characters act the way they do (without giving anything away).
You're So Fine has lots of sweet Southern charm and very colorful characters. I love Kieran Kramer's descriptive writing; you feel as if you are there and know each character personally.
I received an advanced copy of the book in exchange for an honest review. Kieran Kramer, thanks for the laughter, surprises, and tears. This book has it all.
4. 5 Stars Sexual Content: Subtle/Sensual Language (Profanity/Slang) Content: None Violent Content: None
Lacey could quickly become one of my favorite book characters of all time. She’s funny, sassy, spunky, has southern charm oozing out of her pores and she’s an awesome mama. If that doesn’t make her awesome, I don’t know what else would. Plus, she’s smart. Really smart. When she combines her brains with her desire to help others, she finds a terrific job during filming and starts to see herself as more valuable than she did before. I loved watching her awaken to her true potential during the book.
Overall, I had a terrible time putting it down. It was so much fun to see the less glamorous side of Hollywood life. A fast read that will keep you giggling along the way.
This is about as close to a perfect book as I can get. I started it and then it was put it down so I could recover and restock tissues. I cry over happy and I cry over sad. These have to be the most fictional people I have ever read. Beau thinks he's the best actor stuck in a stupid indie movie. Spoilers over that. Lacey and her adopted son Henry were having a hard time and parents that don't seem to care and don't help. Spoilers over this. You know as you read how this will end but it's getting through the real life scenes that get you. This is a must read for everyone! I can't wait to reread it. I always picture Regency books from Kieran but not anymore. I hope you read this book. Enjoy! I have this book for an honest review for NetGalley.
Received an ARC from NetGalley for an honest review.
This one was a good one, although I feel like it fell just short of reaching it's potential. I loved Lacey's back story...taking Henry on and her whole celebrity past...each made her so likable. I feel like I didn't get a good feel for who Beau was until the last third of the book, though. There were a LOT of characters introduced, and it felt like I was getting snippets of information about each one. I really really loved the relationship that Lacey, Beau, and Henry had and when Sheena finally called Henry by name, I got a little teary-eyed. I'm giving this book three stars because I enjoyed it and it showed a lot of potential, but it wasn't my favorite.
This was a wonderful book. I would actually call it a Fiction novel, more than a Romance, but I am not certain about "what the basis" for classifying books.
This story took me on a rollercoaster of emotion. I recommend it strongly. The two books I read before this one, were written by very popular romance writers. I will state that this books was so much better than the two I just read. Kieran Kramer is so talented.
I wish I was a better reviewer, because I then could write a appropriate review to get you to read it. My best compliant is that I will read this book again. I usually do not go back and read books that I have already read.
An excellent read. A great story, good writing, and interesting characters make this one you will want to take a look at. Lacey Clark and her young son Henry are in Indigo Beach trying to start their lives over away from the craziness of Hollywood. She's surprised by the arrival of Beau Wilder at the lighthouse she is temporarily staying at. He claims he has a lease on the place while he is in town filming his latest movie. Can these two co-exist without driving each other crazy. You'll definitely want to read this one and find out. My only issue with this book is that the pace is a little slow and the story seemed to drag on a bit but overall a very good read.