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Promises #1
Promises Hurt
I wasn't planning on falling for Ethan Jamison, hell I wasn't planning on our paths ever crossing. He’s the most popular guy at school and a complete player. Me; I’m the perpetual good girl, trying to carry out one last request. But when you make a promise, how far do you go to see it through?
~ Blair
It’s a running joke that I’m a terrible liar, if only people knew the truth. My whole life has been spent making excuses and deflecting questions. I was pretty good at it until Blair Thomas entered my world. She saw through the mask that everyone is so willing to accept. She makes me want to tell her all my secrets, but can she promise to keep them?
~ Ethan
~ Blair
It’s a running joke that I’m a terrible liar, if only people knew the truth. My whole life has been spent making excuses and deflecting questions. I was pretty good at it until Blair Thomas entered my world. She saw through the mask that everyone is so willing to accept. She makes me want to tell her all my secrets, but can she promise to keep them?
~ Ethan
274 pages, Paperback
First published July 31, 2014
52 people are currently reading
2569 people want to read
About the author
Elle Brooks
19 books436 followersHello...
I'm a little neurotic; I function on a tiny amount of sleep and a huge amount of caffeine. I love green skittles and have an irrational fear of stormy weather. When I’m not writing about super hot college guys, you can generally find me googling them...All in the name of research of course. I can be persuaded to do just about anything with the promise of a good book or a bottle of bubbles. Oh, and I also love to write.
I'm a little neurotic; I function on a tiny amount of sleep and a huge amount of caffeine. I love green skittles and have an irrational fear of stormy weather. When I’m not writing about super hot college guys, you can generally find me googling them...All in the name of research of course. I can be persuaded to do just about anything with the promise of a good book or a bottle of bubbles. Oh, and I also love to write.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 220 reviews
September 22, 2014
Okay so I literally just finished reading this book, I could have probably finished it last night but I was way too angry. I'll mention why later in my review. But right now after that humongous cliffhanger, all I'm feeling is this:
Did the book to have end at the worst possible moment?
Anyway here's an extended synopsis:
Blair Thomas, just lost her friend, Em, to leukemia. The day after Em died, Blair gets a letter Em wrote before she died. Em had a bucket list, a few things she wanted to do before she died. Unfortunately she couldn't do everything, and in the letter she asks Blair to finish the list for her. There are seven things Em couldn't do, one of them being losing her virginity to Ethan Jamison. Blair doesn't really think much of the list until she gets a call from Ethan, she's his new math tutor.
Blair and Ethan never really meant to fall for each other. Ethan being popular and a member of a band, he's got girls running in circles around him. Blair, being a self professed geek who's actually pretty confident and likes the way she looks. But when Ethan sees her, okay yeah he checks her out and gets an instant boner. But, when he starts talking to her, they click in the best of ways. Getting into other girls pants, seems like a long forgotten memory to Ethan.
She's going to want answers when she wakes up. I don't know if I can give them to her. But for the first time in my life, I want o. I want to tell this girl everything. I want this girl period
Ethan, is keeping some really dark secrets. Everyone sees this guy who has everything, and wants for nothing. But they have no idea how difficult his life really is. How difficult it is for him to keep up the happy facade. And for the first time in his life he confides in someone, he tells Blair his darkest secret.
Okay yeah, I see you rolling you eyes. But I really enjoyed this part of the book, they're angsty teenagers. Everything is intense, nothing is just whatever lol! Ethan and Blair were ridiculously cute together, and yeah Ethan had the constant darkness hanging over his shoulder but when he was with Blair he could forget and he could be a normal teenage boy with his girl.
"Can I keep you?" I smile as I let out a long exhale.
"Only forever."
"Promise?"
"Cross my heart," I tell him as my eyelids drop and I let sleep claim me.
Blair struggles with Ethan's past though, with every girl in school giving her the stink eye because she took away prime meat. Her confidence levels are a little low. But Ethan was endearing patient and super sweet, the complete opposite to his previous persona, Blair changed him.
"You're amazing Blair. I'm kinda crazy for you."
I need her to know how I feel. To know that she's not just some random hook up for me. I just need her.
So I really enjoyed this story, but here comes the ranty bit, that is also a spoiler.
That was a really shitty thing to do, Ethan!!!
Anyway if you're looking for something sweet, but sad and has a liberal dose of teen angst. Here you go! Oh and it's got some pretty steamy scenes too!
"You're a dork."
"You're an asshole."
"You're kind of perfect."
August 13, 2014
Fuckity! Fuckity! Fuckity! Fuck. Fuck. Shit!!!!!!! This can NOT be the end. My heart is no longer in my body. It's been massacred. utterly and painfully yanked frim my chest. OMG, what a cliffie from Hell!!!! Can we say Jessica Sorensen?????? Yeah, it's that bad a cliffie. Member Coincidence of Callie and Kayden? Bet you do. It's that book all over again.
But I loved every god damn second of it....until the end. Now I'm gonna go do something to get my mind off this brutal and cruel ending. AH!!! I need more Ethan Jamisen. Oh hot damn!!! God, please make everything okay....my heart hurts. Wait, my heart's gone...my head hurts. I need sleep. Shit, I need a happy read. :'(
But I loved every god damn second of it....until the end. Now I'm gonna go do something to get my mind off this brutal and cruel ending. AH!!! I need more Ethan Jamisen. Oh hot damn!!! God, please make everything okay....my heart hurts. Wait, my heart's gone...my head hurts. I need sleep. Shit, I need a happy read. :'(
July 25, 2014
I think I've calmed down enough to actually write a review for this book now!
Promises Hurt is a debut novel for British author Elle Brooks and was recommended to me by a fellow blogger as something I would like!
And boy, did I like!!
The prologue and beginning chapters damn well nearly had me bawling my eyes out like a baby and if I hadn't have been reading in public I think tears would have fallen!
The story revolves around our two main characters, Ethan and Blair.
Ethan is an out-going, member of a band, cool kid in the senior year of high school. Blair is the introverted, intelligent, quirky loner in the senior year of high school. Not an apparent match for a couple. Or so you'd think.
Ethan has had it hard for a long time. He is a different person at home than he is at school and quickly finds solace and a true friend in the witty and caring Blair.
Blair - who has had her fair share of heartache and sadness - knows of Ethan (I mean, who didn't?), but she didn't know him until their paths crossed. She was helping him out by being there for him and she felt less lonely with him in her life.
The two of them formed a strong, unshakeable bond and soon became inseparable.
Their back stories continue but they soon start to face them together until the almost explosive ending. I won't give anything away but it's all there. Darkness, light, deep emotions, painful secrets and enlightening truths. But above it all? Love. Friendship. The bond between two people. A deep need for one another above anyone else.
If you love angsty YA reads then this is perfect for you! And that cliffhanger? DAMN!! Elle, you cannot write fast enough for the next segment to Ethan and Blair's story!
Such an amazing first book to release into the world of equally stunning works. I am truly excited to see where Elle Brooks will take us on her writing journey, I can only hang on and hope it's not too bumpy a ride!
Promises Hurt is a debut novel for British author Elle Brooks and was recommended to me by a fellow blogger as something I would like!
And boy, did I like!!
The prologue and beginning chapters damn well nearly had me bawling my eyes out like a baby and if I hadn't have been reading in public I think tears would have fallen!
The story revolves around our two main characters, Ethan and Blair.
Ethan is an out-going, member of a band, cool kid in the senior year of high school. Blair is the introverted, intelligent, quirky loner in the senior year of high school. Not an apparent match for a couple. Or so you'd think.
Ethan has had it hard for a long time. He is a different person at home than he is at school and quickly finds solace and a true friend in the witty and caring Blair.
Blair - who has had her fair share of heartache and sadness - knows of Ethan (I mean, who didn't?), but she didn't know him until their paths crossed. She was helping him out by being there for him and she felt less lonely with him in her life.
The two of them formed a strong, unshakeable bond and soon became inseparable.
Their back stories continue but they soon start to face them together until the almost explosive ending. I won't give anything away but it's all there. Darkness, light, deep emotions, painful secrets and enlightening truths. But above it all? Love. Friendship. The bond between two people. A deep need for one another above anyone else.
If you love angsty YA reads then this is perfect for you! And that cliffhanger? DAMN!! Elle, you cannot write fast enough for the next segment to Ethan and Blair's story!
Such an amazing first book to release into the world of equally stunning works. I am truly excited to see where Elle Brooks will take us on her writing journey, I can only hang on and hope it's not too bumpy a ride!
November 10, 2014
IT'S LIVE!!!!!!! GET YOUR COPY NOW!!!
AMAZON:
USA: http://amzn.to/1pwLxrQ
UK: http://amzn.to/WSuerI
Read and Reviewed for: Perusing Princesses
Website: www.perusingprincesses.com
Blogger: perusingprincesses.blogspot.co.uk
Facebook: www.facebook.com/perusingprincesses
Twitter: @peruseprincess
"Beautiful, heartfelt, emotional and immeasurably profound. Promises Hurt took my breath away." ~ Kelly - Perusing Princesses
My heart is in my damn throat right now. Don't you just love it when a book does that? Promises Hurt consumed me; heart, mind, body and soul. This is such a beautiful love story but with a deep and reflective complexity that will have you reaching for the tissues, swooning in desire, screaming in anger and stamping your foot in frustration.
Yes, every myriad of emotion is featured and yet throughout it all Ethan and Blair are that strong, impenetrable comfort blanket that you just want to wrap yourself up in and completely immerse in their perfection. This couple are really special. I connected on such a personal level to both of them thanks to the alternate POV's that the author has gifted us with.
This debut has made my top read list for 2014!
There is light here, but there is also darkness. Love and friendship, fear and trust, laughter and tears...Promises Hurt has the lot!
The synopsis doesn't give much away and I am so thankful of that, because a main part of the story plays its early hand in the prologue and trust me when I say it sets the wheels in motion of what is a compelling and deeply moving tale of a shy, introverted girl and a notorious jock/rock star high school player with a dark secret.
Ethan is counting down the hours to freedom, he just never expected his game changer to come in the form of a loner, a tutor nerd holding onto the ghost of her past.
Blair is trying to fulfil a promise, and at first it seems like a daunting prospect but a touch of fate's hand and a faint whisper of a third voice makes it a little easier than originally anticipated. And...that's all you're getting from me because you have to go in blind with this one and take the journey on your own.
The flow, the characters, the plot, everything was perfect. I thought I was getting old and coming out the other side of school/college based romances but Elle Brooks threw me back in and I didn't want to leave. She literally shoved me out kicking and screaming at the end because I wasn't ready to let go of these characters, and the direction this story took had me gripping my kindle for dear life.
Please hurry with that sequel, it is needed pronto because I'm dangling over that edge and I'm not keen on heights, especially ones of epic proportions. Do you hear me Elle Brooks? I need more and I want it now! :D
Add this book to your August TBR because Promises Hurt is a MUST READ!
AMAZON:
USA: http://amzn.to/1pwLxrQ
UK: http://amzn.to/WSuerI
Read and Reviewed for: Perusing Princesses
Website: www.perusingprincesses.com
Blogger: perusingprincesses.blogspot.co.uk
Facebook: www.facebook.com/perusingprincesses
Twitter: @peruseprincess
"Beautiful, heartfelt, emotional and immeasurably profound. Promises Hurt took my breath away." ~ Kelly - Perusing Princesses
My heart is in my damn throat right now. Don't you just love it when a book does that? Promises Hurt consumed me; heart, mind, body and soul. This is such a beautiful love story but with a deep and reflective complexity that will have you reaching for the tissues, swooning in desire, screaming in anger and stamping your foot in frustration.
Yes, every myriad of emotion is featured and yet throughout it all Ethan and Blair are that strong, impenetrable comfort blanket that you just want to wrap yourself up in and completely immerse in their perfection. This couple are really special. I connected on such a personal level to both of them thanks to the alternate POV's that the author has gifted us with.
This debut has made my top read list for 2014!
There is light here, but there is also darkness. Love and friendship, fear and trust, laughter and tears...Promises Hurt has the lot!
The synopsis doesn't give much away and I am so thankful of that, because a main part of the story plays its early hand in the prologue and trust me when I say it sets the wheels in motion of what is a compelling and deeply moving tale of a shy, introverted girl and a notorious jock/rock star high school player with a dark secret.
Ethan is counting down the hours to freedom, he just never expected his game changer to come in the form of a loner, a tutor nerd holding onto the ghost of her past.
Blair is trying to fulfil a promise, and at first it seems like a daunting prospect but a touch of fate's hand and a faint whisper of a third voice makes it a little easier than originally anticipated. And...that's all you're getting from me because you have to go in blind with this one and take the journey on your own.
The flow, the characters, the plot, everything was perfect. I thought I was getting old and coming out the other side of school/college based romances but Elle Brooks threw me back in and I didn't want to leave. She literally shoved me out kicking and screaming at the end because I wasn't ready to let go of these characters, and the direction this story took had me gripping my kindle for dear life.
Please hurry with that sequel, it is needed pronto because I'm dangling over that edge and I'm not keen on heights, especially ones of epic proportions. Do you hear me Elle Brooks? I need more and I want it now! :D
Add this book to your August TBR because Promises Hurt is a MUST READ!
August 1, 2014
MY RATING: ☆☆☆☆ Stars - Promises Hurt by Elle Brooks
☆ Complimentary copy provided by the author in exchange for an honest review ☆
~ THANK YOU ~
God where to start with this, at first I really didn't think I would like it or that it would hold my attention as it's very YA to what I am used to reading..BUT and it's a huge BUT I actually ended up really enjoying it, oh and there is another but and it's a huge mother of a BUT!!
BLAIR AND EMILY BEST FRIENDS
I'm struggling to write a review because no words are coming to me to convey what went through my head when reading this..Guess the usual ones where I was sad, laughed alot and then I hit that cliffy and I'm left here sitting with a mouth open catching flies and wanting that next book!!
ALL PROMISES HURT
I loved everything about these character..At times I just got so frustrated with Ethan and his not fighting back then his mother just allowing that crap to go on under that roof and then it all makes sense, still a hard pill to swallow though..
ACUTE LYMPHOBLASTIC LEUKEMIA
Ethan Jamison is HOT, Emily crushed on him from the first day of school and called dibs, so I've never really given him a second thought, he was always her obsession
BUCKET LIST
1:Swim with dolphins
2: Visit the Grand Canyon
3: Go to Vegas, baby
4: Sing/Perform for a crowd
5:Tell Mr Parker he's a dick
6: Skinny dip
7: Get completely wasted
8:Smoke a cigarette
9: Fall in love
10: Lose my V card (Ideally Ethan Jamison)
11:Sleep under the stars
12:Ride a horse
13: Volunteer (hospital/old folks home/homelss shelter)
14:TP Harriet Clare's house
15:Ride in a hot air balloon
16:Visit Paris
17:Get a tattoo
18:Send a message in a bottle
19:Dye my hair bright pink
20:Try surfing
I want to tell this girl everything. I want this girl, period. Something has changed between us. It feels tangible. There's a comfort level, a trust that I've never experienced with anyone ever.~ Ethan
He has a reputation of being a man-whore and his actions generally confirmed it ~ Blair
☆ Complimentary copy provided by the author in exchange for an honest review ☆
~ THANK YOU ~
God where to start with this, at first I really didn't think I would like it or that it would hold my attention as it's very YA to what I am used to reading..BUT and it's a huge BUT I actually ended up really enjoying it, oh and there is another but and it's a huge mother of a BUT!!
BLAIR AND EMILY BEST FRIENDS
I'm struggling to write a review because no words are coming to me to convey what went through my head when reading this..Guess the usual ones where I was sad, laughed alot and then I hit that cliffy and I'm left here sitting with a mouth open catching flies and wanting that next book!!
ALL PROMISES HURT
I loved everything about these character..At times I just got so frustrated with Ethan and his not fighting back then his mother just allowing that crap to go on under that roof and then it all makes sense, still a hard pill to swallow though..
ACUTE LYMPHOBLASTIC LEUKEMIA
Ethan Jamison is HOT, Emily crushed on him from the first day of school and called dibs, so I've never really given him a second thought, he was always her obsession
BUCKET LIST
1:
2: Visit the Grand Canyon
3: Go to Vegas, baby
4: Sing/Perform for a crowd
5:
6: Skinny dip
7: Get completely wasted
8:
9: Fall in love
10: Lose my V card (Ideally Ethan Jamison)
11:
12:
13: Volunteer (hospital/old folks home/homelss shelter)
14:
15:
16:
17:
18:
19:
20:
I want to tell this girl everything. I want this girl, period. Something has changed between us. It feels tangible. There's a comfort level, a trust that I've never experienced with anyone ever.~ Ethan
He has a reputation of being a man-whore and his actions generally confirmed it ~ Blair
July 18, 2014
4.5 stars! Just wow!
*ARC provided to G the Book Diva blog in exchange for an honest review*
I started this read thinking it was going to be an average high school romance type of read. WRONG! I was crying by 5%!!
NOTE: Don't listen to this on text-to-speech while driving, it's hard to wipe tears and swerve through traffic at the same time.
I don't mean the cool kind of swerving either...
I'm talking about the idiot kind of swerving...
Seriously, though. There was a lot of depth to the characters and while we are talking about 18 year old high school seniors, they are wise beyond their years. They have no choice given the cards that life has dealt them both. I could completely sympathize with both Ethan and Blair, I liked them together and I also felt the love between them. I really enjoyed this book and I look forward to more!
*ARC provided to G the Book Diva blog in exchange for an honest review*
I started this read thinking it was going to be an average high school romance type of read. WRONG! I was crying by 5%!!
NOTE: Don't listen to this on text-to-speech while driving, it's hard to wipe tears and swerve through traffic at the same time.
I don't mean the cool kind of swerving either...
I'm talking about the idiot kind of swerving...
Seriously, though. There was a lot of depth to the characters and while we are talking about 18 year old high school seniors, they are wise beyond their years. They have no choice given the cards that life has dealt them both. I could completely sympathize with both Ethan and Blair, I liked them together and I also felt the love between them. I really enjoyed this book and I look forward to more!
October 12, 2014
It’s not often that I start off a book review with a warning. But here it is – DO NOT START READING THIS BOOK IN PUBLIC!!! I started reading it in a local coffee shop…. take it from me, it is not dignified to be blowing your nose on a coffee shop sized serviette!
This book grabbed me from the off. There was an immediate connection with the characters (hence the nose blowing!). The story was engaging and heart felt, and will leave you feeling emotionally wrung out and elated at various points.
The author deals with some pretty difficult topics (no spoilers), and in my opinion (for what it’s worth) she handles with them well, and in a way which wasn’t at all jarring to the storyline.
Make no mistake, this is not a hearts and flowers, plain sailing, romance. There is pain and hurt too. But … what would that all encompassing, grand love be worth, if you didn’t have to fight for it, just a little bit??
After the ending to this book, I cant wait to see what happens in the next one – bring it on!!!
I received an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review
This book grabbed me from the off. There was an immediate connection with the characters (hence the nose blowing!). The story was engaging and heart felt, and will leave you feeling emotionally wrung out and elated at various points.
The author deals with some pretty difficult topics (no spoilers), and in my opinion (for what it’s worth) she handles with them well, and in a way which wasn’t at all jarring to the storyline.
Make no mistake, this is not a hearts and flowers, plain sailing, romance. There is pain and hurt too. But … what would that all encompassing, grand love be worth, if you didn’t have to fight for it, just a little bit??
After the ending to this book, I cant wait to see what happens in the next one – bring it on!!!
I received an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review
September 12, 2015
This was a sweet story of first love with some tear-jerking drama thrown in.
He's the high school hottie plus he's also in a band. She's a nerd girl who doesn't realise how attractive she is. Oh and a virgin. Yeah so pretty cliche. Fortunately these two have good banter and chemistry so it kind of rescued this one for me and I enjoyed most of it. I personally found the issues both of them were struggling with to lack something and I wasn't quite feeling them; it made for a strange marriage of fluffy and pseudo-heavy going on in this.
There's some manufactured drama towards the end leading to a huge naff cliffhanger which I thought was a pity as the most interesting thing for me was their sweet story of first love which could've been resolved fairly swiftly without the manufactured drama spinning it out.
I liked the characters and the narrative so I'll definitely read more from this author. If you're a NA fan who loves an emotional drama you'll probably enjoy this one.
He's the high school hottie plus he's also in a band. She's a nerd girl who doesn't realise how attractive she is. Oh and a virgin. Yeah so pretty cliche. Fortunately these two have good banter and chemistry so it kind of rescued this one for me and I enjoyed most of it. I personally found the issues both of them were struggling with to lack something and I wasn't quite feeling them; it made for a strange marriage of fluffy and pseudo-heavy going on in this.
There's some manufactured drama towards the end leading to a huge naff cliffhanger which I thought was a pity as the most interesting thing for me was their sweet story of first love which could've been resolved fairly swiftly without the manufactured drama spinning it out.
I liked the characters and the narrative so I'll definitely read more from this author. If you're a NA fan who loves an emotional drama you'll probably enjoy this one.
July 12, 2014
Wow... Holy holy all that is holy omg what a book!!! Seriously.... Omg!!!
I normally steal clear of younger romance... But my co-Princess Kelly just luved it.. And I have to agree... Fantastic... And the last couple of chapters.. I just didn't breathe... And The ending....OMG!!!!!
WHEN is the next book?!?!?!??!
I normally steal clear of younger romance... But my co-Princess Kelly just luved it.. And I have to agree... Fantastic... And the last couple of chapters.. I just didn't breathe... And The ending....OMG!!!!!
WHEN is the next book?!?!?!??!
December 25, 2014
´*•.¸(*•.¸♥¸.•*´)¸.•*´Review´*•.¸(*•.¸♥¸.•*´)¸.•*´
A few weeks after Blair’s best friend ,Emily, passed away, she receives a letter from Emily. It’s her unfinished bucket list and she is asking Blair to finish it for her. Wanting to honor that wish Blair promises to complete it.
But things are weird without Emily and Blair is having a hard time adjusting. That is until she’s assigned to help Ethan with his math. In Ethan she finds a new friend and in so she’s able to deal with Emily’s death. By some twist of fate this Ethan is The Ethan Emily obsessed about. And the thing is, he is on that bucket list as well…..
Ethan isn’t actually bad at math, but with him being so busy with his band he lost track of his grades. But he doesn’t just want to graduate, he needs to. So he agrees with the tutoring, he doesn’t expect his tutor to be someone like Blair, though. At first she is to be just his “nerd tutor”, as he gets to know her she becomes something precious, a true friend, a safe haven. But can he really trust her?
“Promises Hurt” is a book I wanted to read because I liked the sound of it and when I started reading I found out that the concept went much deeper than the synopsis let appear. Which was a pleasant surprise, but it does have it’s ups and downs. Like I do like the characters but there are a few times that my eyebrows drew together in a frown. Take Blair for example. I pretty much liked her, love her t-shirt and I need to know where I can get them. I just don’t like it when she suddenly goes all gushy about Ethan. I think it is mainly the transition from her being sad about Emily’s passing and her going cuckoo over Ethan that “bothers” me, in my opinion it could have been done more smoothly.
“I don’t think I’ve ever wanted anyone as much as I want you,” I whisper into her neck. “Can I keep you?”
Ethan is one of the school’s main playboys, his looks and attitude got girls flocking all around him and he does his best to give as many of them a piece of him…if you know what I mean. It gets boring real quick and he finds himself not caring so much about them anymore but he has a reputation to uphold. So on he goes faking his way towards graduation day, then he meets Blair and he finds he doesn’t have to fake with her. She accepts him as he is. He should let her be but he finds himself unable to do that. And on top of that he’s holding her to promises that are impossible to keep.
“She’s not going anywhere, even if she wanted to I can’t let her- I won’t let her.”
I don’t know what’s going on but lately I’m reading many books that end with cliffhangers. Yes this is one of those too but I can’t find out when or if a second book will be released. Will have to keep an eye on the author’s social media sites. Despite the cliffhanger I did enjoy reading it,it’s fast, romantic but there are some issues that complicate the budding romance. Which keeps you on your toes and makes you want to keep reading.
´*•.¸(*•.¸♥¸.•*´)¸.•*´Rating´*•.¸(*•.¸♥¸.•*´)¸.•*´
3.5 Stars
A few weeks after Blair’s best friend ,Emily, passed away, she receives a letter from Emily. It’s her unfinished bucket list and she is asking Blair to finish it for her. Wanting to honor that wish Blair promises to complete it.
But things are weird without Emily and Blair is having a hard time adjusting. That is until she’s assigned to help Ethan with his math. In Ethan she finds a new friend and in so she’s able to deal with Emily’s death. By some twist of fate this Ethan is The Ethan Emily obsessed about. And the thing is, he is on that bucket list as well…..
Ethan isn’t actually bad at math, but with him being so busy with his band he lost track of his grades. But he doesn’t just want to graduate, he needs to. So he agrees with the tutoring, he doesn’t expect his tutor to be someone like Blair, though. At first she is to be just his “nerd tutor”, as he gets to know her she becomes something precious, a true friend, a safe haven. But can he really trust her?
“Promises Hurt” is a book I wanted to read because I liked the sound of it and when I started reading I found out that the concept went much deeper than the synopsis let appear. Which was a pleasant surprise, but it does have it’s ups and downs. Like I do like the characters but there are a few times that my eyebrows drew together in a frown. Take Blair for example. I pretty much liked her, love her t-shirt and I need to know where I can get them. I just don’t like it when she suddenly goes all gushy about Ethan. I think it is mainly the transition from her being sad about Emily’s passing and her going cuckoo over Ethan that “bothers” me, in my opinion it could have been done more smoothly.
“I don’t think I’ve ever wanted anyone as much as I want you,” I whisper into her neck. “Can I keep you?”
Ethan is one of the school’s main playboys, his looks and attitude got girls flocking all around him and he does his best to give as many of them a piece of him…if you know what I mean. It gets boring real quick and he finds himself not caring so much about them anymore but he has a reputation to uphold. So on he goes faking his way towards graduation day, then he meets Blair and he finds he doesn’t have to fake with her. She accepts him as he is. He should let her be but he finds himself unable to do that. And on top of that he’s holding her to promises that are impossible to keep.
“She’s not going anywhere, even if she wanted to I can’t let her- I won’t let her.”
I don’t know what’s going on but lately I’m reading many books that end with cliffhangers. Yes this is one of those too but I can’t find out when or if a second book will be released. Will have to keep an eye on the author’s social media sites. Despite the cliffhanger I did enjoy reading it,it’s fast, romantic but there are some issues that complicate the budding romance. Which keeps you on your toes and makes you want to keep reading.
´*•.¸(*•.¸♥¸.•*´)¸.•*´Rating´*•.¸(*•.¸♥¸.•*´)¸.•*´
3.5 Stars
October 4, 2015
DNF
Blair's BFF dies and leaves Blair her bucket list to finish. One thing on the bucket list was to lose her virginity to Ethan. Blair starts tutoring Ethan and one thing leads to another (quickly) and Blair and Ethan start dating. Ethan has a secret that he only has told Blair about. Everyone sees Ethan as an easy, fun guy, but he carries a lot of pain.
I could not finish this one. Great premise, but the execution in my opinion was poor. It was written so matter of fact. I did not feel any of the emotions the characters were feeling. Also, some of the behavior and verbiage felt awkward and out of place. Actually I was bored.
Dual POVs, switch every other chapter...it would have been better to keep it in one POV. There were points in the story, I was not sure which voice I was reading.
Some of the inner dialogue felt endless. Never ending. Then Blair's guilt for liking a guy that her dead BFF lusted after. Her BFF, Em, stalked Ethan from afar. Blair's BFF never even went on a date with Ethan and Blair feels guilty for liking the guy her friend liked.
This is my opinion. You may love this book. It did not work for me, but may work for you.
Blair's BFF dies and leaves Blair her bucket list to finish. One thing on the bucket list was to lose her virginity to Ethan. Blair starts tutoring Ethan and one thing leads to another (quickly) and Blair and Ethan start dating. Ethan has a secret that he only has told Blair about. Everyone sees Ethan as an easy, fun guy, but he carries a lot of pain.
I could not finish this one. Great premise, but the execution in my opinion was poor. It was written so matter of fact. I did not feel any of the emotions the characters were feeling. Also, some of the behavior and verbiage felt awkward and out of place. Actually I was bored.
Dual POVs, switch every other chapter...it would have been better to keep it in one POV. There were points in the story, I was not sure which voice I was reading.
Some of the inner dialogue felt endless. Never ending. Then Blair's guilt for liking a guy that her dead BFF lusted after. Her BFF, Em, stalked Ethan from afar. Blair's BFF never even went on a date with Ethan and Blair feels guilty for liking the guy her friend liked.
This is my opinion. You may love this book. It did not work for me, but may work for you.
September 24, 2014
So this was probably 3.5 for me. Which doesn't mean I didn't like it. I did. It was a bit YA for my normal taste. Review to come.
August 26, 2015
My reread review... 3.5ish
I don't know how the heck I went from 5 stars to this. Usually I enjoy books better the second time around, because I catch new details and what not. Those details did not please me. -_- I still like the storyline, it was gripping. But the word repetition is this book drove me mad this time around. I was literally cringing from reading "princess" or "you love it" a billion times per page. Ugh. I'm disappointed.
Old review
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
*5 beautiful stars*
UPDATE: YAY my books arrived! :-)
Blair feels like a nobody. Her best friend is gone, and she doesn't seem to fit in well with her old friends.
Ethan is a bad boy musician, and he is the typical gorgeous rock hard 18 year old that most girls drool over.
Blair never imagined talking to Ethan, let alone hanging out with him. After all, her best friend is the one that was supposed to end up with Ethan, so why is she developing feelings for him?
Ethan has never noticed Blair before, and he regrets not meeting her sooner. Things going on at home make him feel worthless and good for nothing. Blair begins to change his life. She is the first good thing that has happened to him in a while.
So what happens when their worlds collide, leaving them breathless...
~~~
OKAY. This book is definitely not what I was expecting. I don't know if I can calm my brain down long enough to write the amazing review that this book deserves. I might have to come back and edit it so readers understand why reading this book is a MUST.
Let me start off by saying the imagery in this book is amazing. To have a well written book, imagery is a MUST. I had no disappointment what so ever with this novel. I never had to make things up in my head to substitute for what the author was trying to say. It was all insanely perfect. I was practically drooling over her words.
Second.. These characters. Oh man these characters. My brain and heart have melted and evaporated. I don't know if I've ever loved characters as much as I love these. Not only Blair and Ethan, but everyone! They are all described amazingly and I fell in love with, (and hated) them so much. I honest to god was laughing and crying out loud while reading this. (I got weird looks from my sister.)
Third, this storyline was so beautifully written. PROPS TO THE AUTHOR FOR AN AMAZING HOOK AT THE BEGINNING. I kid you not I was in tears for the first 10 pages. The story between the characters and all their relationships is just memorizing and wonderful in every way.
Seriously.. Is there a place I can order an actual handheld copy of this book? Because I want it.. Really bad.
The only negative thing I can think of is that I have to wait till I get the second book to find out what happens next. Can you say CLIFFHANGER?! Sheesh woman! ;-) It is safe to say that I am madly in love with this book, and everyone should give it a read because it's honestly one of the best things I've ever read. I finished it in 2 hours ;-)
I don't know how the heck I went from 5 stars to this. Usually I enjoy books better the second time around, because I catch new details and what not. Those details did not please me. -_- I still like the storyline, it was gripping. But the word repetition is this book drove me mad this time around. I was literally cringing from reading "princess" or "you love it" a billion times per page. Ugh. I'm disappointed.
Old review
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
*5 beautiful stars*
UPDATE: YAY my books arrived! :-)
Blair feels like a nobody. Her best friend is gone, and she doesn't seem to fit in well with her old friends.
Ethan is a bad boy musician, and he is the typical gorgeous rock hard 18 year old that most girls drool over.
Blair never imagined talking to Ethan, let alone hanging out with him. After all, her best friend is the one that was supposed to end up with Ethan, so why is she developing feelings for him?
Ethan has never noticed Blair before, and he regrets not meeting her sooner. Things going on at home make him feel worthless and good for nothing. Blair begins to change his life. She is the first good thing that has happened to him in a while.
So what happens when their worlds collide, leaving them breathless...
~~~
OKAY. This book is definitely not what I was expecting. I don't know if I can calm my brain down long enough to write the amazing review that this book deserves. I might have to come back and edit it so readers understand why reading this book is a MUST.
Let me start off by saying the imagery in this book is amazing. To have a well written book, imagery is a MUST. I had no disappointment what so ever with this novel. I never had to make things up in my head to substitute for what the author was trying to say. It was all insanely perfect. I was practically drooling over her words.
Second.. These characters. Oh man these characters. My brain and heart have melted and evaporated. I don't know if I've ever loved characters as much as I love these. Not only Blair and Ethan, but everyone! They are all described amazingly and I fell in love with, (and hated) them so much. I honest to god was laughing and crying out loud while reading this. (I got weird looks from my sister.)
Third, this storyline was so beautifully written. PROPS TO THE AUTHOR FOR AN AMAZING HOOK AT THE BEGINNING. I kid you not I was in tears for the first 10 pages. The story between the characters and all their relationships is just memorizing and wonderful in every way.
Seriously.. Is there a place I can order an actual handheld copy of this book? Because I want it.. Really bad.
The only negative thing I can think of is that I have to wait till I get the second book to find out what happens next. Can you say CLIFFHANGER?! Sheesh woman! ;-) It is safe to say that I am madly in love with this book, and everyone should give it a read because it's honestly one of the best things I've ever read. I finished it in 2 hours ;-)
July 25, 2014
**** EROTICA BOOK CLUB REVIEW ****
Promises Hurt
by Elle Brooks
Expected release date: 2nd August 2014
I do not even know where to begin with this review, Blair finds herself tutoring Ethan and finds herself crushing on him but there is so much more to this story and I really don't want to say any more because I do not want to spoil the story so I shall carry on telling you what I think of this book!!
I found myself crying almost continuously thought this book and at times I was scared to pick it back up but I was completely sucked in by the characters and the storyline and just couldn't get them out of my head. There is an instant chemistry between Blair and Ethan and it jumps right out and grabs you and pulls you into their story. The pov switches between the 2 characters and it fits this story brilliantly. This is not erotica but there are some really hot sexual situations.
Although I cried a lot during this I also laughed and smiled. There is a bit of a cliffhanger ending that made me want to go haunt down Elle and bitch slap her!! (please note no authors or kindles were harmed after I finished this book)
This is the authors first book and I think this lady will go far in the book world, its well written and even though I didn't fall in love with Ethan because he is way too young for me. I really liked the characters and enjoyed reading this.
I received a copy from the author in exchange for an honest review
5 stars for Goodreads & 5 stars for Amazon
~Jane~
Promises Hurt
by Elle Brooks
Expected release date: 2nd August 2014
I do not even know where to begin with this review, Blair finds herself tutoring Ethan and finds herself crushing on him but there is so much more to this story and I really don't want to say any more because I do not want to spoil the story so I shall carry on telling you what I think of this book!!
I found myself crying almost continuously thought this book and at times I was scared to pick it back up but I was completely sucked in by the characters and the storyline and just couldn't get them out of my head. There is an instant chemistry between Blair and Ethan and it jumps right out and grabs you and pulls you into their story. The pov switches between the 2 characters and it fits this story brilliantly. This is not erotica but there are some really hot sexual situations.
Although I cried a lot during this I also laughed and smiled. There is a bit of a cliffhanger ending that made me want to go haunt down Elle and bitch slap her!! (please note no authors or kindles were harmed after I finished this book)
This is the authors first book and I think this lady will go far in the book world, its well written and even though I didn't fall in love with Ethan because he is way too young for me. I really liked the characters and enjoyed reading this.
I received a copy from the author in exchange for an honest review
5 stars for Goodreads & 5 stars for Amazon
~Jane~
Read
June 30, 2015There is something very special about these characters and story. I have become emotional attached and invested. I am not sure how you can read this book and not become committed.
It is so refreshing to read a story with a strong female lead: Blair is incredibly smart, emotionally strong, witty, real character that I instantly clicked with. She is the foundation for the story, the rock. She wears math quote t-shirts, chucks, and indie glasses. Ethan is the rock star, jock without being predictable He is swoony worthy, incredibly sweet and sexy. Most of all, I love that Elle made him with flaws.
This book had me daydreaming about the story and the characters all day until I could get back to it and then I had book hangover after. I ugly cried and laughed so hard that my stomach hurt and blushed. There were twist and turns. The storyline was emotional and deep. I feel privileged to get to be apart of the journey this author is taking. Excellent debut. Hook, line, sinker- there is no doubt in my mind that if you read this one, you will read the next, and the next.
My favorite line “Can I keep you?”
It is so refreshing to read a story with a strong female lead: Blair is incredibly smart, emotionally strong, witty, real character that I instantly clicked with. She is the foundation for the story, the rock. She wears math quote t-shirts, chucks, and indie glasses. Ethan is the rock star, jock without being predictable He is swoony worthy, incredibly sweet and sexy. Most of all, I love that Elle made him with flaws.
This book had me daydreaming about the story and the characters all day until I could get back to it and then I had book hangover after. I ugly cried and laughed so hard that my stomach hurt and blushed. There were twist and turns. The storyline was emotional and deep. I feel privileged to get to be apart of the journey this author is taking. Excellent debut. Hook, line, sinker- there is no doubt in my mind that if you read this one, you will read the next, and the next.
My favorite line “Can I keep you?”
August 15, 2014
Where to start, I absolutely loved this book.
Elle Brooks is a new author and dam I am speechless after reading the arc for this book. ethan and Blair are a match made in heaven. Blair is lovley and down to earth and a bit of a geek and ethan is a jock but also much more. I won't give much away but dam I want the next the book know. There is heart ach and tears and they are mine.
From start to finish this book is well written and the story is followed through, there wasn't one part of the story that I didn't like.
I really want to punch one of the characters of this book in face so badly that they can't get up. But the ending is just wow.
This book has had me in tears, laughing, I have throw my phone on the bed at some bits it's an all round brilliant read.
I can't wait for the next one elle brooks.
Elle Brooks is a new author and dam I am speechless after reading the arc for this book. ethan and Blair are a match made in heaven. Blair is lovley and down to earth and a bit of a geek and ethan is a jock but also much more. I won't give much away but dam I want the next the book know. There is heart ach and tears and they are mine.
From start to finish this book is well written and the story is followed through, there wasn't one part of the story that I didn't like.
I really want to punch one of the characters of this book in face so badly that they can't get up. But the ending is just wow.
This book has had me in tears, laughing, I have throw my phone on the bed at some bits it's an all round brilliant read.
I can't wait for the next one elle brooks.
July 14, 2014
OH MY GOODNESS! What can I say.... I really enjoyed this book and I am so thankful that I was gifted this book in exchange for an honest review.
I fell in love with the characters right from the outset and the more I read the harder I found to it to put the book down.
Elle Brooks has done a wonderful job with these characters in her debut and I cannot wait for the next one to see where she will take them.
She has done a wonderful job with making these characters relateable and I found myself laughing often as I could hear my 16 year old daughter in the female lead and her friends in many of the supporting characters.
I have no problem in recommending this book to anyone who enjoys a young romance novel and I am really looking forward to book two in this Promises Series.
I fell in love with the characters right from the outset and the more I read the harder I found to it to put the book down.
Elle Brooks has done a wonderful job with these characters in her debut and I cannot wait for the next one to see where she will take them.
She has done a wonderful job with making these characters relateable and I found myself laughing often as I could hear my 16 year old daughter in the female lead and her friends in many of the supporting characters.
I have no problem in recommending this book to anyone who enjoys a young romance novel and I am really looking forward to book two in this Promises Series.
July 16, 2016
Wow! So good, but what a cliffhanger. Now need to read part 2, "Forgotten Promises".
July 12, 2014
It’s been a while since I’ve lost myself completely in a book, but that’s exactly what Promises Hurt did for me. By that, I mean time just slipped away. I was in their lives. I was living, breathing, falling in love, and hurting right along with them. I looked up and realized I had been reading for 3 hours, and I had no idea. I figure if a book can make the world disappear and suck me in from the first chapter, it’s a keeper. This one did all of that and more. It’s emotional, intense, and completely captivating.
This is the story of the nerdy girl, Blaire, who gets swept off of her feet by the school’s “it” guy, Ethan. There’s so much more under the surface than just simply that though. Blaire has a bucket list of adventures to check off; Ethan has a father that despises him. It’s definitely not all light and sweet, but yet...is, at the exact same time, if that makes sense. It’s such a great mixture of romance with a serious subject matter. For me, it was a perfect balance.
At first glance, you’d think this was a very stereotypical story. You’d think it would be predictable. You would be wrong. I know I was. It’s so much more than you’ll expect, and I LOVE when stories hit me like that. There are so many more elements to their story than just simply a nerdy girl and hot guy, and it’s those extras that made this book for me. It also felt like the perfect high school dream. The hot guy you always swooned over wants you. Raise your hand if you dreamt of that in high school? I’m going to pretend that everyone is holding up their hands. It’s all of our teenage fantasies come to life, and there’s something very magical about that. I may be 29, have 3 kids, and a hubby but it doesn’t take away from the fun of going back and reliving that time in my life.
These characters fit each other so well, even though they’re sort of opposite. Blaire says many times that Ethan is so different from what she thought. He comes off as this egotistical player, when in reality, he’s charming, funny, and romantic to boot. Seeing the true Ethan come out and how he doesn’t care that his friends and classmates know how crazy he is about Blaire was so heartwarming and made me all giddy. I love love how witty Blaire is. Although she knows of Ethan and her best friend adored him, she’s still not intimidated by him. They have the cutest relationship and you’ll find yourself cheering them on from the get go. The flip side is that it’s not all sugary sweet. Ethan’s home life is horrible. His father is abusive, his mother doesn’t help, and he specifically asks Blaire not to say anything. It’s all very heartbreaking and Brooks does a fantastic job of making you really, truly feel for him.
BUT! That cliffhanger! Usually, I run away from books that I know end on a cliffhanger. Yea, I’m that girl. I will not touch them normally and HATE being surprised by them. This one doesn’t have a small cliffhanger where you can mosey on to your next book and come back when Book 2 releases. This one is more like the ”toss you off the side of the Grand Canyon and watch you fall” style cliffhanger. Ouch. Please don’t let that deter you from picking this one up. I loved this story, even with the ending. I don’t regret the last few hours while reading it. Cliffhanger or not, it was worth it. This book was fantastic.
Overall, I really enjoyed reading Promises Hurt. Brooks has written a phenomenal story and the characters really seemed to come to life. I can’t wait for Book 2, as well as any future books by Elle Brooks.
<3 Erin
This is the story of the nerdy girl, Blaire, who gets swept off of her feet by the school’s “it” guy, Ethan. There’s so much more under the surface than just simply that though. Blaire has a bucket list of adventures to check off; Ethan has a father that despises him. It’s definitely not all light and sweet, but yet...is, at the exact same time, if that makes sense. It’s such a great mixture of romance with a serious subject matter. For me, it was a perfect balance.
At first glance, you’d think this was a very stereotypical story. You’d think it would be predictable. You would be wrong. I know I was. It’s so much more than you’ll expect, and I LOVE when stories hit me like that. There are so many more elements to their story than just simply a nerdy girl and hot guy, and it’s those extras that made this book for me. It also felt like the perfect high school dream. The hot guy you always swooned over wants you. Raise your hand if you dreamt of that in high school? I’m going to pretend that everyone is holding up their hands. It’s all of our teenage fantasies come to life, and there’s something very magical about that. I may be 29, have 3 kids, and a hubby but it doesn’t take away from the fun of going back and reliving that time in my life.
These characters fit each other so well, even though they’re sort of opposite. Blaire says many times that Ethan is so different from what she thought. He comes off as this egotistical player, when in reality, he’s charming, funny, and romantic to boot. Seeing the true Ethan come out and how he doesn’t care that his friends and classmates know how crazy he is about Blaire was so heartwarming and made me all giddy. I love love how witty Blaire is. Although she knows of Ethan and her best friend adored him, she’s still not intimidated by him. They have the cutest relationship and you’ll find yourself cheering them on from the get go. The flip side is that it’s not all sugary sweet. Ethan’s home life is horrible. His father is abusive, his mother doesn’t help, and he specifically asks Blaire not to say anything. It’s all very heartbreaking and Brooks does a fantastic job of making you really, truly feel for him.
BUT! That cliffhanger! Usually, I run away from books that I know end on a cliffhanger. Yea, I’m that girl. I will not touch them normally and HATE being surprised by them. This one doesn’t have a small cliffhanger where you can mosey on to your next book and come back when Book 2 releases. This one is more like the ”toss you off the side of the Grand Canyon and watch you fall” style cliffhanger. Ouch. Please don’t let that deter you from picking this one up. I loved this story, even with the ending. I don’t regret the last few hours while reading it. Cliffhanger or not, it was worth it. This book was fantastic.
Overall, I really enjoyed reading Promises Hurt. Brooks has written a phenomenal story and the characters really seemed to come to life. I can’t wait for Book 2, as well as any future books by Elle Brooks.
<3 Erin
November 18, 2014
ARC PROVIDED BY AUTHOR TO CLASSY LADIES DIRTY BOOKS FOR AN HONEST REVIEW
<3 Ethan ETHAN & BLAIR 4EVER
First off I want to acknowledge that as a reader I was very impressed by Elle Brook's first piece of work. This story is compelling and the characters likable.
The story starts off strong honestly I had no idea the story was going where it went from the first chapter. The authors effort to lure the reader in is felt in the writing. Blair and her best friend are young and very likable. A tragedy occurs and Blair is finding her way forward. As a reader a bit more could have been put into the emotion of this part of the story. The author does a great job unfolding what occurs which is the lead in to the story and its very realistic however she could have played on the emotions that occur before, during and after the event even more. I wanted her do dig deeper not just tell us what happens, I wanted to feel more. It was a perfect opportunity to do so. I'm not saying I wanted Blair to be a blubbering mess or the typical depressed character but reaching deeper would have developed a deeper connection to Blair with the reader .
Ethan is so complex and wonderful and hot and kind and sweet and so SWOONWORTHY and with Blair they are so, well ...cute. I loved them together. I was rooting the entire time for them regardless of the list. I'm glad the author didn't overdo the importance of it but didn't forget it either. There are no loose ends and the author was very thorough with not only the relationship portion of the story but each characters back story however I could only "feel" Ethan's.
The story flows from travesty to Blair's everyday life but doesn't tell the reader "how" she does it. All the other parts of the story transpiring before and at the same time set up the perfect story and I really enjoyed the story until 52% , where the story became about Ethan and Blair but not about them, it was almost like the author was stuck at this point until about 70%.
Don't get me wrong, I usually can only review books I feel motivated to review. This story is very worthy of your time so I highly suggest reading it, I just really thought it was going to be a 5 star read and when I hit the 52%-70% mark I kept asking myself why is this topic taking over the "story"? The author also does a fantastic job at approaching the physical part of the relationship meaning there is no fade to black and is practical/realistic for the story. Bravo for not backing off or going too far.
I really liked the story even though it is a ....cliffy. I'm not sure why authors still do this without the second book either already being written and or with an imminent release date. A) readers HATE it and B) an author is gambling that the reader will remember to come back to the story in a market flooded with so many books worthy and some not so worthy of your time. I personally will add the second to my TBR ASAP and will jump on it because Elle Brooks made me love Ethan, Blair, and Ethan & Blair!
I highly recommend the story and would love to hear what other readers think.
Great debut Elle!!
<3 Ethan ETHAN & BLAIR 4EVER
First off I want to acknowledge that as a reader I was very impressed by Elle Brook's first piece of work. This story is compelling and the characters likable.
The story starts off strong honestly I had no idea the story was going where it went from the first chapter. The authors effort to lure the reader in is felt in the writing. Blair and her best friend are young and very likable. A tragedy occurs and Blair is finding her way forward. As a reader a bit more could have been put into the emotion of this part of the story. The author does a great job unfolding what occurs which is the lead in to the story and its very realistic however she could have played on the emotions that occur before, during and after the event even more. I wanted her do dig deeper not just tell us what happens, I wanted to feel more. It was a perfect opportunity to do so. I'm not saying I wanted Blair to be a blubbering mess or the typical depressed character but reaching deeper would have developed a deeper connection to Blair with the reader .
Ethan is so complex and wonderful and hot and kind and sweet and so SWOONWORTHY and with Blair they are so, well ...cute. I loved them together. I was rooting the entire time for them regardless of the list. I'm glad the author didn't overdo the importance of it but didn't forget it either. There are no loose ends and the author was very thorough with not only the relationship portion of the story but each characters back story however I could only "feel" Ethan's.
The story flows from travesty to Blair's everyday life but doesn't tell the reader "how" she does it. All the other parts of the story transpiring before and at the same time set up the perfect story and I really enjoyed the story until 52% , where the story became about Ethan and Blair but not about them, it was almost like the author was stuck at this point until about 70%.
Don't get me wrong, I usually can only review books I feel motivated to review. This story is very worthy of your time so I highly suggest reading it, I just really thought it was going to be a 5 star read and when I hit the 52%-70% mark I kept asking myself why is this topic taking over the "story"? The author also does a fantastic job at approaching the physical part of the relationship meaning there is no fade to black and is practical/realistic for the story. Bravo for not backing off or going too far.
I really liked the story even though it is a ....cliffy. I'm not sure why authors still do this without the second book either already being written and or with an imminent release date. A) readers HATE it and B) an author is gambling that the reader will remember to come back to the story in a market flooded with so many books worthy and some not so worthy of your time. I personally will add the second to my TBR ASAP and will jump on it because Elle Brooks made me love Ethan, Blair, and Ethan & Blair!
I highly recommend the story and would love to hear what other readers think.
Great debut Elle!!
April 30, 2015
So I have a confession I am a cover whore, if I see a cover that I fall in love with then I tend to one click straight away, so when I can across Promises Hurt Series By Elle Brooks I one clicked it straight away, the cover was so pretty.
What I didn't expect was to feel what I did while reading this series it took me on a beautiful journey of love and heartache and I was lost in the world of Ethan And Blair.
Blair I fell in love with straight away, as soon as you open the book you are hit with certain emotions and you can not help but feel the ache that Blair feels, but she had sass and that's what made me love her, she was different to the "normal" heroines we meet in other books, but she OWNED it, I want to be like her when I grow up.
Yes she made mistakes she made promises that at the time she felt were the right ones to make and I was right there with her. At times I did want to be that friend she needed to tell her she was making a huge mistake, but sometimes we need the hurt to become a better person. And Blair was that person for Ethan,
Blair's love for Ethan shined so much throughout both books it never wavered she really was a beautiful Diamond.
Ethan OMG I loved him so damn much, when he hurt I hurt. I wanted to wrap him up in all the love I had to give. When he had to endure broke my heart so much.
The way Elle wrote certain things I had to take a moment to breathe my heart just hurt so much for him.
He was just so loveable, sexy, cute he was the boyfriend you wanted, his love was so real. You felt.
God I did love him.
This series took me on some highs and lows, one minute my heart is bursting with love then the next minute it is breaking, the ending to Promises Hurt messed me up, all I'm saying if Forgotten Promises wasn't out I would of DIED what a nasty little cliffy that was.
I loved how Forgotten Promises came together, nothing was missed out, certain events that took place weren't brushed under the carpet they were dealt with properly. You got the whys of actions of certain people even if you didn't agree wholeheartedly with them.
I really loved how it all ended, even though I wouldn't mind more of these two, they have captured my heart.
What I didn't expect was to feel what I did while reading this series it took me on a beautiful journey of love and heartache and I was lost in the world of Ethan And Blair.
Blair I fell in love with straight away, as soon as you open the book you are hit with certain emotions and you can not help but feel the ache that Blair feels, but she had sass and that's what made me love her, she was different to the "normal" heroines we meet in other books, but she OWNED it, I want to be like her when I grow up.
Yes she made mistakes she made promises that at the time she felt were the right ones to make and I was right there with her. At times I did want to be that friend she needed to tell her she was making a huge mistake, but sometimes we need the hurt to become a better person. And Blair was that person for Ethan,
Blair's love for Ethan shined so much throughout both books it never wavered she really was a beautiful Diamond.
Ethan OMG I loved him so damn much, when he hurt I hurt. I wanted to wrap him up in all the love I had to give. When he had to endure broke my heart so much.
The way Elle wrote certain things I had to take a moment to breathe my heart just hurt so much for him.
He was just so loveable, sexy, cute he was the boyfriend you wanted, his love was so real. You felt.
God I did love him.
This series took me on some highs and lows, one minute my heart is bursting with love then the next minute it is breaking, the ending to Promises Hurt messed me up, all I'm saying if Forgotten Promises wasn't out I would of DIED what a nasty little cliffy that was.
I loved how Forgotten Promises came together, nothing was missed out, certain events that took place weren't brushed under the carpet they were dealt with properly. You got the whys of actions of certain people even if you didn't agree wholeheartedly with them.
I really loved how it all ended, even though I wouldn't mind more of these two, they have captured my heart.
July 20, 2014
5 Crowns
So I need to admit something at this point. This arrived on my kindle and as always I read the synopsis straight away. Yes, it sounded interesting but I stacked it into my TBR behind a few others in no immediate hurry to read it. THEN, my fellow Princesses read it, raved about it and so yes you've guessed it, I moved it on up of course to see what all the fuss was about. WOW!! How bloody glad am I that I did...
Promises Hurt is a story about good girl Blair and popular boy Ethan. At 1st glance you probably think its going to be same old YA/NA story by another average author...(I admit I did) WRONG! This story is so much more.
As soon as I read the heart breaking prologue I knew I was already sucked into an emotional, shockingly heartfelt journey between 2 people who shouldn't fit but just do on so many levels.
I'm not going to give too much away about the storyline; part of this books appeal is that you just don't expect the story to head the way it does. The subject matters that are touched will surprise you and the authors writing style makes you feel every emotion that both of these amazing characters are going through.
The 2 characters are really special. They are very different, yet connecting jigsaw pieces that fit together so perfectly. Ethan brings out a side to Blair that disappeared when she lost an important part of her identity. Blair on the opposite side, sees through the mask and walls that Ethan has erected to maintain a outward appearance that has been ingrained into his personality from a young age.
This is Elle Brooks debut novel and it is absolutely sublime. It feels well thought out, fast paced but unhurried. It has depth and layers of emotions without unnecessary bumf that debut novels are often filled with. You just get the feeling that lots of care, time and attention has been pored into every single word and storyline twist.
I urge anyone reading this review to experience Promises Hurt, it will be time well and truly spent. The ending is left hanging over a cliffs precarious edge and although I am not a usual fan of these types of endings, I have to say it totally works. This is slated for a 2 part series and the good news is book 2 is already in the works, so luckily we wont be left on that cliff edge for too long.
An amazing and gut wrenching debut novel from an amazingly talented writer... I highly recommend it!
So I need to admit something at this point. This arrived on my kindle and as always I read the synopsis straight away. Yes, it sounded interesting but I stacked it into my TBR behind a few others in no immediate hurry to read it. THEN, my fellow Princesses read it, raved about it and so yes you've guessed it, I moved it on up of course to see what all the fuss was about. WOW!! How bloody glad am I that I did...
Promises Hurt is a story about good girl Blair and popular boy Ethan. At 1st glance you probably think its going to be same old YA/NA story by another average author...(I admit I did) WRONG! This story is so much more.
As soon as I read the heart breaking prologue I knew I was already sucked into an emotional, shockingly heartfelt journey between 2 people who shouldn't fit but just do on so many levels.
I'm not going to give too much away about the storyline; part of this books appeal is that you just don't expect the story to head the way it does. The subject matters that are touched will surprise you and the authors writing style makes you feel every emotion that both of these amazing characters are going through.
The 2 characters are really special. They are very different, yet connecting jigsaw pieces that fit together so perfectly. Ethan brings out a side to Blair that disappeared when she lost an important part of her identity. Blair on the opposite side, sees through the mask and walls that Ethan has erected to maintain a outward appearance that has been ingrained into his personality from a young age.
This is Elle Brooks debut novel and it is absolutely sublime. It feels well thought out, fast paced but unhurried. It has depth and layers of emotions without unnecessary bumf that debut novels are often filled with. You just get the feeling that lots of care, time and attention has been pored into every single word and storyline twist.
I urge anyone reading this review to experience Promises Hurt, it will be time well and truly spent. The ending is left hanging over a cliffs precarious edge and although I am not a usual fan of these types of endings, I have to say it totally works. This is slated for a 2 part series and the good news is book 2 is already in the works, so luckily we wont be left on that cliff edge for too long.
An amazing and gut wrenching debut novel from an amazingly talented writer... I highly recommend it!
March 9, 2016
Promises Hurt is a amazing debut by Elle Brooks. The story is very well written and the characters were very likeable and well developed.
The lead female is Blair. She is a very strong person, whose extremely funny, smart and a all round good girl.
Blairs best friend has unfortunately passed away and has left Blair a bucket list that she wants her to complete on her behalf. One of the things on the list was to connect with Ethan, her best friends school crush.
Ethan is a very loveable character.. He's a "jock" whose very sexy, but also very caring and sweet. Ethan however doesn't have a great family life and is in need of a tutor.
Blair and Ethan's relationship starts off as just friendship between two people who are slightly lost and hurting, but very slowly their relationship starts to turn in to more, surprising them both.
Elle Brooks has created characters that you will fall in love with. She takes you on a journey with them both and you will be routing for the couple to have a HEA.
The story will have you laughing one minute and grabbing the tissue box the next.
The whole story is so beautiful, but there is a good back story to keep you hooked in right to the end. The story may sound predictable, but I can guarantee that "Promises Hurt" is anything but predictable.
I think this book will always hold a very space in my heart and I'm happy that I had the pleasure to read it.
Fantastic Debut.
**Reviewed on behalf of Head tripping Books**
The lead female is Blair. She is a very strong person, whose extremely funny, smart and a all round good girl.
Blairs best friend has unfortunately passed away and has left Blair a bucket list that she wants her to complete on her behalf. One of the things on the list was to connect with Ethan, her best friends school crush.
Ethan is a very loveable character.. He's a "jock" whose very sexy, but also very caring and sweet. Ethan however doesn't have a great family life and is in need of a tutor.
Blair and Ethan's relationship starts off as just friendship between two people who are slightly lost and hurting, but very slowly their relationship starts to turn in to more, surprising them both.
Elle Brooks has created characters that you will fall in love with. She takes you on a journey with them both and you will be routing for the couple to have a HEA.
The story will have you laughing one minute and grabbing the tissue box the next.
The whole story is so beautiful, but there is a good back story to keep you hooked in right to the end. The story may sound predictable, but I can guarantee that "Promises Hurt" is anything but predictable.
I think this book will always hold a very space in my heart and I'm happy that I had the pleasure to read it.
Fantastic Debut.
**Reviewed on behalf of Head tripping Books**
January 17, 2015
I received a copy of the ePub from the Goodreads group Read 4 Review in exchange for an honest review.
What a wonderful read. Blair is recovering from the death of her best friend. Blair is truly a good girl—focused, positive, confident and comfortable in her own skin. She is not drawn into peer pressure. Blair begins to tutor bad boy Ethan. He is the bad boy according to his very public reputation. They are a most unlikely couple but the connection between them is undeniable.
The author brilliantly tells the story through Blair and Ethan’s points of view. This gives the reader access to both characters—their honest thoughts and feelings are not hidden from the reader. Ethan’s many layers are revealed and the author exposes Ethan’s true persona. They sound and act like high school seniors. These likeable characters make this Young Adult Fiction a page-turner. The secondary characters have distinct voices and give depth to this well written novel. The twist and turns are shocking and keeps the reader forever guessing as secrets are shared.
And what a cliffhanger! Blair and Ethan’s story cannot be over. The reader will want book two immediately.
What a wonderful read. Blair is recovering from the death of her best friend. Blair is truly a good girl—focused, positive, confident and comfortable in her own skin. She is not drawn into peer pressure. Blair begins to tutor bad boy Ethan. He is the bad boy according to his very public reputation. They are a most unlikely couple but the connection between them is undeniable.
The author brilliantly tells the story through Blair and Ethan’s points of view. This gives the reader access to both characters—their honest thoughts and feelings are not hidden from the reader. Ethan’s many layers are revealed and the author exposes Ethan’s true persona. They sound and act like high school seniors. These likeable characters make this Young Adult Fiction a page-turner. The secondary characters have distinct voices and give depth to this well written novel. The twist and turns are shocking and keeps the reader forever guessing as secrets are shared.
And what a cliffhanger! Blair and Ethan’s story cannot be over. The reader will want book two immediately.
May 17, 2014
I have had the pleasure of beta reading this book and I cannot express how much I enjoyed it! The author placed a couple of unexpected twists that I am not going to spoil for you, but I will have you either scratching your head or screaming WHAT???? Does that have your attention now?
Ethan and Blair meet after Ethan needs a tutor. Blair already knew who he was since her best friend had a secret crush on him for as long as she could remember. When Blair's best friend dies and leaves her a bucket list of all the things she never got to do, Ethan was among one of those tasks. What starts off as innocent fun turns into something completely different when peoples hearts and feelings are on the line.
Ethan has come from a not so great family life. He has been able to keep this information to himself until he meets Blair. She is the one person he feels comfortable enough sharing the good and the bad parts of his life.
I highly recommend this book!! I could not put it down when I started reading!
Ethan and Blair meet after Ethan needs a tutor. Blair already knew who he was since her best friend had a secret crush on him for as long as she could remember. When Blair's best friend dies and leaves her a bucket list of all the things she never got to do, Ethan was among one of those tasks. What starts off as innocent fun turns into something completely different when peoples hearts and feelings are on the line.
Ethan has come from a not so great family life. He has been able to keep this information to himself until he meets Blair. She is the one person he feels comfortable enough sharing the good and the bad parts of his life.
I highly recommend this book!! I could not put it down when I started reading!
July 12, 2014
Wow, just...WOW!!
What a brilliant first book by Elle brooks, and deserves so much more than the five stars you can give.
From start to finish I was hooked. The story is brilliantly written, and flowed beautifully. Every detail is described just enough to allow you to be sucked into the story and fall in love with the characters, Ethan and Blair.
At no time was I bored, or skipping pages due to the over use of key issues, which I often find in books.
I cried, I laughed, i tried to predict what was going to happen (don't even try, because you will be wrong) I cried some more, then I begged for book #2.
Well done Elle on your first book, and thank you for allowing me to read it.
Can't wait for your next one.❤️
What a brilliant first book by Elle brooks, and deserves so much more than the five stars you can give.
From start to finish I was hooked. The story is brilliantly written, and flowed beautifully. Every detail is described just enough to allow you to be sucked into the story and fall in love with the characters, Ethan and Blair.
At no time was I bored, or skipping pages due to the over use of key issues, which I often find in books.
I cried, I laughed, i tried to predict what was going to happen (don't even try, because you will be wrong) I cried some more, then I begged for book #2.
Well done Elle on your first book, and thank you for allowing me to read it.
Can't wait for your next one.❤️
July 12, 2014
Was kindly gifted this book in exchange for an honest review.
5++++ stars
What an amazing book, I absolutely loved it. My emotions reading this book ranged from tears, anger, sadness and finally frustration. Blair is a lovely strong shy young woman who at the tender age of 15 lost something so precious to her. Fast forward 3 years, she starts tutoring Ethan Jamison. The chemistry between them is almost instant. You can feel it flowing off the pages. This book will have you on an emotional rollercoaster. Looking forward to seeing what's next in store for Blair and Ethan. This is Elle Brooks first book and her talent just shines through. Carn't wait to read more of her work. Highly highly recommended.
5++++ stars
What an amazing book, I absolutely loved it. My emotions reading this book ranged from tears, anger, sadness and finally frustration. Blair is a lovely strong shy young woman who at the tender age of 15 lost something so precious to her. Fast forward 3 years, she starts tutoring Ethan Jamison. The chemistry between them is almost instant. You can feel it flowing off the pages. This book will have you on an emotional rollercoaster. Looking forward to seeing what's next in store for Blair and Ethan. This is Elle Brooks first book and her talent just shines through. Carn't wait to read more of her work. Highly highly recommended.
July 14, 2014
This book deserves more than 5 stars - first time author Elle Brooks knocked my socks off with this one!
It is a briliant book, well written, great story line, amazing characters. We have the geeky Blair (with her t-shirts inspired by Sheldon from BBT) and we have the most popular boy in school Ethan - who is just going though the motions of life till he meets Blair, and finally we have Em - the most amazing and brave BFF a girl could ask for.
I wont give the game away but the ending left me speechless and desperate for book two!
Bravo Elle Brooks - stand up and accept the wild applause, you deserve it.
Received a complimentary copy from the author.
It is a briliant book, well written, great story line, amazing characters. We have the geeky Blair (with her t-shirts inspired by Sheldon from BBT) and we have the most popular boy in school Ethan - who is just going though the motions of life till he meets Blair, and finally we have Em - the most amazing and brave BFF a girl could ask for.
I wont give the game away but the ending left me speechless and desperate for book two!
Bravo Elle Brooks - stand up and accept the wild applause, you deserve it.
Received a complimentary copy from the author.
July 10, 2014
Wow, just WOW!
Highly recommend this book.
Elle Brooks first book Promises Hurt is FANTASTIC!! Blew me away.
gonna try & keep this spoiler free so bare with me! I'm a reader not a writer ;-)
The story is heartfelt & portrayed beautifully.
The main & secondary characters are all well written & interact brilliantly. I was laughing & crying at the same time in parts.
I FLOVE Blair's T-shirts & Ethan's inner thoughts.
I have a soft spot for Em (the best BFF ever) for personal reasons.
The ending is pure genius, leaving me wanting more.
I need book 2 NOW.
Highly recommend this book.
Elle Brooks first book Promises Hurt is FANTASTIC!! Blew me away.
gonna try & keep this spoiler free so bare with me! I'm a reader not a writer ;-)
The story is heartfelt & portrayed beautifully.
The main & secondary characters are all well written & interact brilliantly. I was laughing & crying at the same time in parts.
I FLOVE Blair's T-shirts & Ethan's inner thoughts.
I have a soft spot for Em (the best BFF ever) for personal reasons.
The ending is pure genius, leaving me wanting more.
I need book 2 NOW.
July 22, 2014
Have you ever started reading a book and the next thing you realize you a getting teary eyed. I'm not even 3% into and I can feel the tears coming on. OMG! Major sap advisory.
Promises Hurt it's about secrets, friendships, love and finding your voice.
I love Ethan, he is super sweet and lovable. Blair was dorky and amazing. Together they were great.
I believe it was a great read. It was sweet, relatable and well worth reading.
Elle, WTH? I hope you are diligently writing more.
Promises Hurt it's about secrets, friendships, love and finding your voice.
I love Ethan, he is super sweet and lovable. Blair was dorky and amazing. Together they were great.
I believe it was a great read. It was sweet, relatable and well worth reading.
Elle, WTH? I hope you are diligently writing more.
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