My Mind's Eye

Pub Fiction #1

by Gillian Jones

Ryker

This is my game: I choose the players, and I never play for keeps.
I don’t believe in fate. I make my own destiny. I work hard and play harder.
Meeting her messed up my plan, threw me off my game. She’s the epitome of the girl next door, but with a feistiness that drives me crazy.
I’m now face to face with my karma.
Her name is Kat Rollins.

Kat

Ryker Eddison is the epitome of a player. You know the type: Mr. Get In and Get Out.
He’s all about the chase, wanting just one night. Everyone knows this—I know this. Still, I find myself craving him in spite of what my heart and mind already know: he will only bring me pain.
He’s the guy girls like me should avoid. I’m smart. I know better. But when I’m with him, I feel things I’ve never felt before, things I never knew I wanted.
I can’t deny it...this high is explosive. But I’m afraid if I give in, I may end up losing more than I can handle: my heart.

Genres: New Adult, Romance, College, Contemporary

ebook

First published May 30, 2015

About the author

Wife, mother, pun lover, part-time pantser of words. Connoisseur of red wine, lover of a good IPA. I write real life romances that sometimes hits you in the feels.

Reviews

[Yelena Bosh · Rating 4 out of 5]

<3

Nothing promises a great story and a drool worthy alpha male than having him introduced through his soon to be trademark of a fucking GROWL!! I mean, what does a girl really need to do to elicit that type of sexy first impression?!

In this fast paced + addictive read, we sort of get two polar opposite people that evolve throughout the story at the same time that a unique story teller turns mere words into heartfelt, sexy and raw emotions...

Kat is a College student who is trying to steer clear of having her past accidents cloud her current state of mind. It's hard to accomplish but it's also so sad to imagine what it would have been like to be a survivor of a horrible fire accident! Saying that, this type of a prologue was the perfect way to grip my mind into the story. It's as if something clicked and I knew MY MIND'S EYE would be anything but a simply read. No. It was as ever consuming as it was breathtakingly well written.

That prologue definitely showcased the strong, long lasting and rare friendship between the two girls. Her best friend Claire is basically the type of best friend that not many girls have or would be lucky to keep if they did. I loved that Gillian Jones captured Claire's characteristic and overall purpose in the story as more than just the fun, party going and advice ridden best friend we tend to find in so many romance based books. I mean, what kinda person wouldn't want to have a friend that says things like:

"Go, my friend. I give you permission to embrace your inner whore with that sex-on-a-cream pie of a man"

In this story, her best friend should be called her sister from the amazing way she was able to not only save Kat's life during the fire but also in the sisterly bond for how she was always there to look after her in Kat's moments of panic. Even in need of hot boy talk or sex life, to small things that all best friends talk about, Claire was the basic example of a perfectly created best friend.

Now.

For the juicy part that may or may not involve the ever drool worthy, panty dropping & sexy smirking creature...

RYKER..

"I love you with my mind's eye and my heart's soul.."

Even the name can make you feel anything but sane..

For the love of all male species out there? Take a note from this fictional characters book and listen up:

Every. Girl. Wants. Her. Version. Of. Ryker.

Full stop.

No arguments nor any sort of valid excuses.

Half the time I can't find words when I'm with her, 'cause these feelings make me fucking nervous. Nervous 'cause she actually makes me happy!

:'(

Jesus, baby, you're my mind's eye. God, lately all I see is you. I dream of you when you sleep. I wake of thoughts of you. Then I see you and, fuck, if you're not all I need to see."

If I start writing about all the ways this creature has put a new meaning to the word sexy, that list would be never-ending. So I'll just at least try to keep to the main points.. I did say try so. Yup. Here we go.

Have you ever met or even glimpsed at a guy who was too hot to even consider if he was real? Or a guy that had the most beautiful eyes that you literally become part of your own mental fictional story and stare at his eyes for an awkwardly long & embarrassing hour? Or even so much as seen the rare sexy grins that guys truly portray when they see something they love?

Well. This was only the beginning of what comes to mind when reading about Ryker.

I know this sounds weird, but falling for a fictional character can be so easy when written as if you're actually part of the story rather than just sitting there and flipping through the pages.. This alpha male was no exception!

Part time bar worker and full time heart breaker, but definitely 100% all dominant male!!

Sexy

Beautiful

Hot (yes. I really did need to use two words to describe his face.. so don't even get me started on his lick-able body. Jesus... I guess I'll just *sigh* and move on 'cause I am not even going to apologise for going heart eyes over this guy.. )

Sweet

Caring

Seeing her vulnerable like this sheds the last of my resolve to try and keep my distance from her. There is a depth to her that I want to explore and support. I want Kat Rollins to be mine. I want her to be my ENDGAME, my Holy Grail

Possessive

Sweet mouthed (*ahem* . . . in more ways than one ;D )

All round bad ass with a capital B

Romantic

Heartbroken

All round perfection on looks and brains!!

Ryker is the type of character that you wouldn't really expect to be created to both be a sex on legs symbol in every way, but to also have an sweeter side to him that only the girl of his would witness. No. He is far more than that.

With the background of being heartbroken by a woman who I have no idea in which universe she would even contemplate cheating on such a guy, and a mind of someone who gives every ounce of his heartbeat to the girl he loves.

Lucky Kat!

Aside from the constantly evolving relationship to the steamy sex scenes that even made me blush despite having read and still reading New Adult books that would only even wish but truly, never ask for forgiveness in what they entail.. This story has a twist to it that I didn't really expect.

I though it would be a typical romance story with the boy and girl hating each other but eventually ending up together - which is an amazing book to read if written well.

In Gillian Jone's My Mind's Eye we get so much more. I won't spoil anything or any more, but I'll just say, be prepared for the ex boyfriend that has "breaking up" issues as an understatement..

One aspect that I didn't particular like or that wasn't really to my taste, was the dialogue between the characters could quiet often be lengthy? Despite the dialogue being interesting and adding to the story, at times it seemed like each individual person was saying too much at one single time. In my personal opinion, it could have been sized down to just one or a couple of sentences. BUT again, that wasn't so bad since it did add to the development of the story so I did over look it most of the time.

Sometimes, there was also too much information at situations that I wouldn't expect there to be or that I would have wanted it to.. One particular was when the girls had a night out in town and as they were walking to the dance floor, Kat suddenly starts talking about her brother and his own life. It didn't take away from the overall story but it just felt a little odd? It just made me blink away from the story for a few seconds..

That was basically the only potential negative aspect I could mention. That's all. Everything else was written with such talent and addictive development that I wish I could read the story again or at least meet Ryker for the first time again haha I know is sounds silly but what can a girl do when such a fictional world is created?!

I could have read this book in one sitting was it not for you know, work, writing, food, socialising and all those not so interesting parts of a readers world..

The epilogue was one of the sweetest and funniest but sexiest moments that fit the story perfectly! This was a New Adult Romance with many typical ideas that you would find in this type of genre, but the writing style, characters (Ryker - double sigh), story development, personalities and the overall concept of how the plot twist turned out towards the end - definitely set this book apart

Thank you Gillian Jones for providing the opportunity to read your breathtaking book!! I can only ever look forward to reading more creations that can come any distance closer to Ryker's unfair perfection.. I am so ruined for my expectations in men. Yup. Ruined. But not complaining at all ;)

xxx

[Restless Book Obsession · Rating 2 out of 5]

I'll start this review by saying that I absolutely hate rating lower than 3 stars but I just couldn't rate this book any more than 2. I started reading this book May 22 and I just finished it now. I'm a fast reader but it took me 17 days to get through this book and I only finished this fast because I was reading under a deadline. The first ARC I received was horribly edited, there were so many grammar issues that I couldn't read more than 5 pages at a time without getting frustrated. I expressed what a hard time I was having on my goodreads comments and was contacted by the author. Gillian kindly sent me the final version (which was better edited) and explained she had issues with the editor. I completely understood that and thanks to her I was able to get further in the book. Still, even after the new version I could not connect with the story no matter how hard I tried. Although the second version I was sent was better edited there's still a lot of errors (and an abusive use of commas) that drove me insane. Grammar issues aside, the main reason I couldn't rate this book more than 2 stars is that I was also having problems with the main character Kat. The minute I started reading I knew I wasn't going to like her yet I still tried my best because I owed it to the author and my blog to give it my best. It just wasn't happening no matter how much I tried. Furthermore, the beginning opens up with a scene that I personally found to be irritating and annoying. In my opinion there's a lot of unnecessary information in the book, so much that I believe instead of 95K the book should be around 50-60k. The dialogue at times felt forced, I feel like scenes were repeated over and over (in different words obviously) and the sexual tension between the main characters drove me up a wall. I love sexual tension as much as the next person but when it takes the main characters 70% of the book to get to where they're supposed to go I believe that's way too much. Ryker was also not what I was expecting but he's still the ONLY part of the book that I liked. I didn't fall for him, I couldn't connect with him but in the entire story his character was the only one that I found to be relatable and the only character who didn't annoy me. Gillian, I'm sorry that this book wasn't for me, and I'm sorry if the review seems harsh. I look forward to trying another story by you, one where you have better editors to guide you and perhaps a larger beta team to catch whatever errors the editor let's slip.

-I was given an ARC and a final copy in exchange for an honest review.

[Jackie - Fire & Ice Book Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

My Minds Eye by Gillian Jones

Holy smokes what a book.

My Minds Eye was absolutely amazing. Ryker, Ryker, Ryker. What a sexy swoon worthy character. That dirty mouth hooked me. So fucking hot.

I devoured this book and loved every. freaking. moment. I am now an HUGE fan of the author. She is going on my auto-1-click list.

Claire is one of those best friends that every girl needs in their lives. She is sexy and fun. She brings out the best in Kat.

She is always by her side no matter what. Now, thats a friendship. I love the playful banter between Claire and Kat. I think that really made the book.

Not gonna lie. The cat and nmmouse game between Kat and Ryker was hot.

I truely enjoyed this book. Excited to see what's next.

[DJ Sakata · Rating 4 out of 5]

Favorite Quotes:

“You’re my back-up, the cheese to my macaroni, the fork to my knife, my bestie… most of all you are my sister from another mister!”

“I honestly think you should be all like, ‘Hey Ryker, my body has 206 bones in it, but I could use one more,’ then blow a kiss at him.”

“Here’s to you, here’s to me. Friends forever we shall be… And if ever we should disagree, then fuck you. Here’s to me!”

“Jesus, baby, you’re my mind’s eye. God, lately all I see is you. I dream of you when I sleep. I wake to thoughts of you. Then I see you and, fuck, if you’re not all I need to see.”


My Review:

If I am not mistaken, My Mind’s Eye appears to be Ms. Jones’ first or at least earliest published listing I noted in Goodreads. If so, then wow, this is a strong debut. The writing was richly descriptive, making it easy to visualize their environments and follow their movements and thoughts. I enjoyed the sweet and supportive friendships that the fun and likable female characters shared, as well as their humorous banter and genuineness with each other. The romance between the anxious little bird Kat and the playboy Ryker was slow to establish and the avoidance or denial of their feelings for each other until 70% into the book became somewhat tiresome for me, but when they finally connected, it was even more explosive than I had anticipated. I adored his sweetness toward her. Their inner musings and sensual scenes were highly erotic, and the dialogue is rife with expletives and profanity, so be aware that this is not a book for the Sunday School set.

[Three Chicks · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 Stars
Review by Lisa Kane

I enjoy a good college romance. I like the thrill of the chase, usually it's the bad boy catches the eye of the good girl and it's game on! This story had that same premise. Kat and her roommate Claire have been best friends since they were kids, in fact after Claire's parents were killed, she moved in with Kat and her family. Kat has problems with panic attacks and stress. She put a lot of faith in her boyfriend Seth, was betrayed and hasn't really recovered. Then a fire at the girls' dorm triggered her attacks again.

I have to admit I was confused as to why Kat suffered from the symptoms she had; apparently she was seeing a therapist who prescribed anti anxiety meds as she had some kind of insomnia problems, but I just didn't get it.

She starts a new job at a bar, Pub Fiction, as a "shooter girl"-her job is to go around and sell shots and collect big tips. As she is described as gorgeous, I don't doubt that she will have any problem with this. She sees a gorgeous guy working the bar staring at her. Turns out he is Ryker Eddison, brother of Levi, the owner. He is literally struck dumb at seeing her. This guy normally has game and is the world's biggest manwhore-by his own admission, but Kat must cast some spell over him because he usually manages to growl when they are in the same room and can't seem to find anything to say.

They have this insta love thing. (that drives me crazy) Because of some confrontations they had, they avoid each other and work the opposite shifts. But they seem to get info about each other from other people. Seth, Kat's ex is taking up stalking as a hobby and he's becoming a problem too.

By the time Ryker and Kat start to really get together it's almost 70% into the book. I just felt a total disconnect to these characters. They seemed younger than their age and Ryker kept talking about getting his d**k wet way too much. When he would manage a convo with Kat it would always be about how hard he would make her sweet come, once they finally got together-they really didn't know each other that well but that seems to be the way they communicate. Actually most of the characters in this book thought Kat's problems could all be solved by her having sex, and never stopped nagging her about it.

I kept reading how sweet Ryker was and how caring everyone thought he was, but other than his tutoring some kids, his scenes are mostly with his roommates where he is planning on getting laid to get Kat out of his head. The writing is good and there is a wide variety of secondary characters, but Ryker was just too over the top possessive alpha for me, with not enough substance. This is a light read, with some mild angst.

[Jos · Rating 3 out of 5]

3 Stars, Ehhhhhhh just ok

OK, so first let me say that I was dying to read this and when it went on sale I literally jumped right on it. I hate when I give a low rating and especially hate when a book I look forward to disappoints me..... This book had a lot of dialogue in it that really was unnecessary to the story therefore for me just wasted a lot of "precious" time in getting these 2 together. Now, on to these 2 getting together, OMG, it took way too long for me...I was at 50% saying WTH are they ver going to get it on already?????

As much as the majority of the story disappointed me or rather the very slow, dragged out road for them, I DID however love the ending:) I was truly happy for these 2 and honestly I do look forward to reading more about the other characters especially Levi, I ope, wink, wink!

Sorry I could;t give it ore than 3 stars but that's just my personal feelings and I will definitely give this author a second chance in the future for sure! Author Gillian Jones has a lot of potential, I just hope the execution of the next story for me comes together a bit better than this one:)

[Renee]

A Perfect Love Story From Beginning To End

I loved this book so much Its not rushed at all. Its getting to know both Kat and Ryker and their lives from the moment of their eyes meeting for the first time. I love that about this book. Often times I feel like the beginning of characters love stories are rushed but not My Mind's Eye. It's the perfect mix of the initial attraction, first date, getting to know each other, serious relationship, bliss.

I loved both Kat and Ryker. I think every girl deserves her Ryker in her life. This book got my attention from the first page and held it to the very end. I felt like while reading it I needed to savor ever single word of this beautiful love story. I loved getting to know both sets of their friends and family. I loved the importance of girls and guys nights and maintaining those relationships were to both of them. Most of all I loved the story of Kat and Ryker.

It's a must read in my opinion. It's a love story the way love stories are meant to be told. Gillian Jones has written an amazing debut novel. I for one can not wait to see what she writes next.

[Sarah Armstrong · Rating 5 out of 5]

***ARC gifted to leave an honest review***

This was a highly anticipated book for me, & it did not disappoint at all.
This is the story about Ryker & Kat. Ryker is the official man-whore, who only believes in one night stands but once he sees Kat, he begins to change, he wants to change, but can he?!
And Kat, she was adorable, Ryker was definitely rude to her due to his new feelings, but she didn't let that discourage her. I loved the relationship w/ her & Claire, her bestie, she was the kick in the pants that Kat needed too.
The sexual tension between these two was off the charts & Ryker is definitely a dirty talker, the little glimpses he gave Kat throughout the book were so hot. And once these two got together, beware because these two are smoking hot!!!

I really enjoyed this book & can't wait to see what you have next for us Gillian!!

[Cyndi Garcia · Rating 4 out of 5]

Major hotness!

This book was hot! The intro dragged a little and the end dragged some more but the book made up for it. Maybe I was to anxious for the action. Ryker is a major hot player and has the rule of only one time and no commitment. she is a good girl, needs a job and finds herself looking to make some extra money as a shot girl at Rykers brothers bar. This book had everything jealousy, alpha hotness and boy the SEX. Love love love! This is my top first 2015 favorite Summer read! Easy read!

[Tina J · Rating 4 out of 5]

My Mind's Eye
by Gillian Jones
June 2, 2015
Publisher: unk
approximate pages: 267 pages
Romance: Contemporary, Erotica, New Adult / College, Coming-of-Age

** Provided by Author in Exchange for an Honest Review. **

-- MY THOUGHTS --
Judging a Book by it's Cover:
Eyecatching cover, nice coloration. Very visually appealing. Synopsis sounds like the usual angst-y New Adult drama, but with a splash of humor and fun.
Looking Deeper:
Alternating first-person POV, clearly defined and easy to follow. Love the Cassia Brightmore "Malevolent" name-drop. Sweet. There were suprise LOL moments (particularly the first Friday night that Kat covers for Claire) that I honestly enjoyed. Ryker kind of comes off as a jerk to Kat, but his mental monologues are endearing. Kat is a bit insecure, she's a stressor and panicker, but trying to work through it. Their interactions make for a fun ride, whereas the conversations I was not a huge fan of. When holding a conversation, it's just not normal and natural to continually use their name, addressing them, each time. The only time this is widely used is if it's in a large group setting and you need to indicate who you are addressing or you are trying to catch their individual attention. It may be a minor pet peeve of mine, but it did trigger a low-level yellow flag for me. But, as stated, the mental asides are great and manage to capture each character's unique personality and essence much more effectively. While the plot progesses smoothly and the interactions are laden with sexual tension, it's nice to see that the buildup to them hooking up takes over 2/3 the story before the deed is finally dones. It's a refreshing change of pace while still packed with some fun heat prior to that pivotal point. The conflicts are often minor and resolved in manners that are typical of real college-aged people. Predictability was fairly low, I mean, we all knew "he" would show up eventually but not the when and where. The conclusion following the apex was a little longer than most, but it was solid and strong. I'd love to know what became of Claire and some of the other secondary characters, however. Overall, this was a very enjoyable read once I looked past the constant addressing during dialogue issue. I really did love Ryker's inability to act like a normal human being when in the same building as Kat, it made me smile always and laugh often.
------------------------
Heat Level: 4.5
Score: 4.1
Stars: 4
-----------------------

-- BUY it NOW --
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-- ABOUT the AUTHOR --
I'm a wife, and mother. My Mind's Eye is my first book writing adventure! Eeeeek! I'm Canadian so I might spell things a little odd once in a while wink emoticon I love red wine, adore my friends and I'm so completely in love with my hubby and little boy. I'm addicted to shoe shopping! But my biggest addiction however is reading. That shit runs deep in my veins, I'm a lover of alpha males, hot sex, with a side of angst all topped off with the happy ever after. I'm a new indie author and I can't wait to start this journey.
http://on.fb.me/1JEt6ee
https://www.facebook.com/gillian.jone...
https://twitter.com/gillianJ_author
https://www.goodreads.com/author/show...

-- REVIEWER INFO --
Tina J / Happily Ever Chapter
This review can be found, in it's entirety or reformatted by myself to fit the guidelines imposed, at any or all of the following locations (determined by availability): Happily Ever Chapter, Tangled Hearts and Boxer Briefs, Smut Book Junkie Book Reviews, Goodreads, Netgalley, Edelweiss, Amazon, BN, Kobo, iTunes. Copies may also be distributed to the publishers, authors and/or promoters - depending on requirements at the time.

[Brie · Rating 4 out of 5]

☆☆☆ 3.5 STARS ☆☆☆

My Mind's Eye was a measured, sexually intense love story that left my heart smiling.

Kat is a walking ball of stress who worries about everything. At times she can come off as being inside of her head too much but that's expected when you battle anxiety. She also suffers from insomnia and we get to witness her thoughts and emotions first hand when she is having a panic attack. Gillian Jones writes those scenes perfectly when portraying what it's like for someone who fights against the uneasiness that resides inside of them.

The relationship she has with her best friend, Claire was one of the highlights for me. This is the friendship every girl wishes to have with another female. They are opposites in every aspect but they get each other in every way, shape and form. I found myself on the edge of my seat waiting to be nose deep into the secrets of their friendship because it reminded me of mine!

Now on to the person who without a doubt stole the show... Ryker!

From the first growl, he had my attention.

"I hear what I can only describe as being… a growl? Yes, it was definitely a legit growl."

Maybe it's the animalistic side of me who loves cavemen antics that fell for Ryker, but I couldn't help it! He comes off as an a-hole, a one night stand having manwhore who does not play for keeps but you soon realize beneath the playboy persona he is so much more than that. He's a momma's boy and when he loves, he loves fiercely but of course he is jaded which resulted in him portraying himself this way. Having his heart broken by the only girl he thought he loved left him indifferent and ultimately turned him into this.

Meeting Kat caused a significant change in the man he had become, just as Kat meeting him allowed her to open up and give herself to a man emotionally and eventually physically. Something she hasn't done in a long time. This thing between them is a gradual build up, it doesn't happen over night. In fact it spans over months leaving not only Kat and Ryker frustrated sexually, but hell me too! Especially when we add in his dirty, very vulgar mouth.

"Baby, you ignite a fire deep within me, a burning desire that drives me so fucking insane with need for you. I can’t explain it, Kat. It’s like nothing I’ve ever felt before. I burn for you. I ache at the idea of you, getting to touch you. God, I ache at the thought of being inside you. Hot Girl, I swear, if I don’t get my cock in you soon, I’m about to fucking combust. Now, are you going to let me in, sweetheart? Are you going to save me from this fire that’s killing me?” Holy fuck. <---- Holy fuck is completely right, Kat O.o

My Mind's Eye took me on a sexual roller coaster where I kept thinking 'This is it, they are about to bang each other's brains out' and every time I thought that I was left a screaming ball of need. But oh boy, let me tell you... when these two finally do give in to each other during the second half of the book it's freaking fireworks!

"I give her my all, and it isn't fucking sweet or polite. No. It’s hot. It’s dirty and all out needy."

This was a different type of romance. It wasn't fast and it wasn't insta love. Did I want some things to have happened before it did? Well, of course but that's my preference and mine alone. Overall, this was a good late Saturday night/early Sunday morning read for me and I can't wait to see where Gillian will take us as readers, as well as see her growth as an author in this book world... as I not so patiently wait for *hint hint* some Claire-ism!

[Lorena Garcia -- Brittany's Book Blog · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wow, talk about a book full of fun, sweet, romantic banter between college students. A man who is drool worthy but has a problem showing "the" girl he wants how he really feels. His growling at her drove me crazy (in a good way) but damn was this man frustrating. Every time I thought he was going to make a move (ehhhh) I was wrong but that's what kept me intrigued about this story, about these two beautiful people.

Ryker had been burned in the past so the last thing he wanted was to get involved again. He liked to play the field and did so, up until Kat came into his life that is. Once Kat showed up and started invading his dreams and thoughts -- forget it, he was a goner he just didn't know how to show her how he felt, he refused to show her his true feelings for her!

Kat doesn't trust easily and the last thing she's looking for is for a boyfriend or guy to invade her thoughts. She just wants to concentrate on school and working and since she had a bad relationship in her past, she definitely doesn't want to make that mistake again. But for some reason Ryker calls to her and she wants to know why he can't talk to her in a complete sentence. The only thing he knows how to do is growl at her and she's fed up with that from him. But she can't deny that there is attraction between them and she also can't act like she's blind and not notice how freaking H.O.T. this man is, so much so that he gets tons of numbers and a jar full of phone numbers.

The question is, can they both forget about their pasts and that they have both been burnt before and look forward to see what could be of them together? Can they trust each other especially with the fact that Ryker has a pretty bad reputation? I guess you'll have to read it to find out!!!

This book was pretty hilarious at times, Kat's friends were freaking funny especially Claire, her best friend. Always there trying to hook her up with somebody. She claimed that Kat needed to get laid and badly!!

This book really had me going. I loved the chemistry that Ryker and Kat had and I loved the fact that this book didn't just jump right into them meeting and having sex right away. Most books do, and there is absolutely nothing wrong with that, but this book took it's time for Kat and Ryker to really get to know each other and it showed that Ryker might have been a player but when he cares about a girl he doesn't go around messing with other girls and concentrated on how he was going to win her heart.

You're definitely going to be left with wanting more of Kat and Ryker. They were absolutely perfect for each other. It was sweet, romantic and entertaining. I'm hoping to to read more from this author as I was pretty smitten with this book.

4.5 stars -- totally worth reading!!

**Received an ARC in exchange for an honest review**

[Tiffany · Rating 3 out of 5]

Reviewed on Behalf of Give Me Books

I really enjoyed this story. It was chock full of sexual tension and angst!

Kat is a college student. She is quite anxious for many reasons and after her last boyfriend cheated on her, she is steering clear of men. Starting a new job at a pub, she is drawn to the most attractive man she has ever laid eyes on. There’s only one problem – he’s a player.

Ryker is also a college student and works at Pub Fiction, his brother’s bar whenever Levi needs his help. He is a player and is only with a woman for one night. “I simply want to fuck. A lot. It’s never more than fucking. I’m only looking for Ms. Right Now.” The girls always want more, but he sticks to his rule – one night only.

Kat and Ryker have this magnetic connection, but neither really wants to act on it. “I’m stunned, mesmerized, and just cannot take my eyes off of this girl who is affecting me like no other before her. Affecting me in a way that I’m not okay with at all.” The entire story is this push and pull between them until they finally give in and hook up. “Hot Girl, I swear, if I don’t get my cock in you soon, I’m about to fucking combust. Now are you going to let me in sweetheart?” But will it only be one night; with a connection like theirs once is most definitely not enough.

At times, I did find this book to be overly repetitive. But I did really enjoy how relatable Kat was as well as the secondary characters. Claire, Kat’s bestie, was by far my favorite. Some of her sayings were hilarious. “I honestly think you should be all like, ‘Hey, Ryker, my body has 206 bones it it, but I could use one more,’ then blow a kiss at him.” Overall, I did like this story. It was funny, hot, and a great story of finding true love. (3.5 stars)

[Kristin ~ Book Lovers Obsession · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ryker is a bar tender at his brother's bar (Pub Fiction) and a shameless man whore. He's been hurt in the past and has zero intention of every letting that happen to him again. He loves women but he will not allow anyone close enough to hurt him again. When he meets Kat, the new hire at Pub Fiction, his world gets turned upside down.

Kat is in her last year of college and just wants to make it through the year and get on with her life. A life changing event at the end of last school year causes some major changes for Kat. When she meets the growling bar tender at Pub Fiction her world is rocked yet again. Kat was cheated on in a past relationship and has very little interest in pursuing another serious relationship.

Their chemistry is electric and absolutely undeniable. What happens when the playboy meets the good girl? Can they soothe each other's hurt? Can new love heal old wounds?

My Mind's Eye is Gillian Jones's debut novel but I read On the Rocks before this one. Having done that I can absolutely see the growth of this author and would definitely recommend this author to anyone.

[Renee · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book so much Its not rushed at all. Its getting to know both Kat and Ryker and their lives from the moment of their eyes meet for the first time. I love that about this book. Often times I feel like the beginning of characters love stories are rushed but not My Mind's Eye. It's the perfect mix of the initial attraction, first date, getting to know each other, serious relationship, bliss.

I loved both Kat and Ryker. I think every girl deserves her Ryker in her life. This book got my attention from the first page and held it to the very end. I felt like while reading it I needed to savor ever single word of this beautiful love story. I loved getting to know both sets of their friends and family. I loved the importance of girls and guys nights and maintaining those relationships were to both of them. Most of all I loved the story of Kat and Ryker.

It's a must read in my opinion. It's a love story the way love stories are meant to be told. Gillian Jones has written an amazing debut novel. I for one can not wait to see what she writes next.

[Layla · Rating 2 out of 5]

2.5 Stars...

So I received an ARC of this book and really tried to like it, but it just wasn't the right book for me. I stopped reading it for about a week and had to push myself to finish it. I thought the premise of it was promising - Bad boy and a focused girl, but how it played out didn't work for me.

I found it had a lot of unnecessary drama. There was so much back and forth between the main characters. One minute Ryker would be ready to be with Kat and then he wasn't ready. I felt like we didn't really get to see the two of them get to know each other, just them contemplating being with each other. There was just too much angst for me. I also disliked the nickname "hot girl". Even after Ryker knew Kat's name he continued to call her "hot girl".

One problem I had with the writing, especially in the beginning, was that the conversation between characters didn't flow. It felt choppy and unnatural. However, I will say that this did improve as I got further into the book.

Unfortunately, this just wasn't my favorite book.But it may work for others who like a lot of drama.

[Brandi · Rating 3 out of 5]

I was a little let down with this one. Honestly, I think it's because of all the buzz that I saw about it. It's been promoted by so many blogs & I was super excited because of all the reels-you-in quotes but...

I had a huge pet peeve that reigned supreme throughout this book. The characters were all talk & didn't act on things for a HUGE portion of it. I'm going to f*** you all night, so hard you feel it the next day... Just you wait, we will happen... I want to know more about her... I've fallen under his spell... SO many things like that were said when they should've been acted on! A roll of duct tape would've come in real handy... *sigh*

I did love when Ryker & Kat FINALLY came together because their connection really shined through the pages. It was real, it was genuine & it was meant to be. And they had sizzling chemistry!

Kat's roommates were fun, especially her BFF, Claire & I liked Ryker's friends & brother, Levi, too! I see plenty of possible story lines for future books in this series!!

[BooksandBeyondFiftyShades · Rating 4 out of 5]

Kat was a beautiful, smart, young woman but always worrying about every little thing. Her best friend knew how to calmed her down but when they survived a fire on their dorms her anxiety level high rocketed. But this was not something that will stop her from receiving her diploma and become a teacher.

Ryker had a bad experience that turned him into the biggest player there was. He had one rule never repeat the one night stand he had with girls but when his brother hired Kat as a shooter girl at the popular bar closed to the university things would change forever.

Kat was single but wasn't looking for any relationship and she never did a one night stand but when it came to Ryker she was willing to throw cation to the wind. But will she put her heart on the line for him?

Ryker and kat will take you for a long ride. This story is well written and is one of the hottest so far I have read when it comes to the sex scenes between two characters.

I recommend this book.

[Danielle · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 'HOT GIRL' STARS!

A great debut novel from a promising new author! Gillian Jones gave her readers a well written and developed story about two people with painful relationship histories learning to trust, open up and embrace love again.

Ryker and Kat were positively electric together. When they finally managed to get out of their own way, to let go of the past and to take that leap of faith, they both found what it was they were looking for all along.

I enjoyed Gillian's first novel, and I look forward to seeing her grow and develop as an author. I'd definitely read more from her in the future.

*ARC generously provided by the author with the understanding that I would review honestly.

[Alwaysreadingbooks - Reading Drinking and Relaxing · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a great story about starting over and what can happen once you put yourself out there again. I loved Kat and Ryker and the way that they were around each other. This book gave me everything that I was looking for in a book to keep me interested. The back and forth between the two was epic. I loved the way that this played out and all of the characters in this book were great. I look forward to reading more from this series to see what all will happen.

[Brandy Roberts · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was givin a copy for my honest review This book had smoking hot chemistry between the two characters plus it had no cheating or sleeping with other people witch I like to see in a book there was little drama and loved the nicknames it wasnt all baby it was unique like honeybutter and hot girl very cute the relationship between her and claire it was like they were sisters they had me laughing so many times i cant wait to read more from this author :)

[Sharyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved it!!! Loved the characters it was a great read.

[Gillian Cassia PA · Rating 5 out of 5]

i absolutely loved this book!! it was amazing from beginning to end. Flove Ryker!!

[Kristin · Rating 3 out of 5]

Cheesy in some parts but overall a decent read. 3.5 stars!

[Cait's Creatures · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ok first: JESUS, MARY, AND JOSEPH, I need to go to CHURCH after reading this book. I curse like a truck driver, but I think Ryker's got me beat for f bombs. And Lord that man could dirty talk. The amount of times I took the Lord's name in vain and squealed "OH. MY. GOD" while reading will surely mean a ton of penance for me. I mean JESUS. Kat was a goner before she even realized it. 

And I loved every single minute of it. 

I've read so many good books lately, and I've got a TON of reviews I need to get done (including Natasha Madison's Perfect Love Story which freaking broke me) but instead of doing all the crap I need to do, I read My Mind's Eye and finished it at 2:30 in the morning and immediately wanted to write this review. That's how good this book is. I knew when I read Fighting Weight that I loved Gillian Jones. So much so that after one book, I found out she was going to be at the Books by the Bridge event in NYC this year, so I bought my ticket. Literally, just to meet her. (Am I a crazy stalker or is she just that awesome of an author?) So, while procrastinating writing reviews, I decided to grab My Mind's Eye (which is available on KU-HOLLA). I made a couple mistakes while reading though.



Mistake #1: I was unprepared- so I'm preparing you. Grab your big girl panties, a glass of wine, and settle in for a read that will have you not wanting to put the book down. At all. 
Mistake #2: I was expecting a slow burn, and it was, but LORD THESE TWO BURN. Grab yourself a fan too, with that glass-er bottle, of wine because you're gonna need it. Kat & Ryker fight their attraction to each other for so long, both denying how they're feeling, that when these two hit the sheets, I'm pretty sure my house could have burned down around me and I wouldn't have noticed. 

Ryker is a huge playboy, not looking to settle down with any one woman. Kat is just dealing with a nasty break up, and looking to relax after dealing with a fire in her dorm the previous year. Ryker freaking growls when he accidentally catches her changing one day (*fans self*) and loses all sense of the English language. Kat pushes him away, not sure she can do the one-and-done thing her best friend thinks will be good for her. Ryker isn't ready to lose his playboy ways just yet. Though these two fight it, they both end up together when Ryker decides he's not going to sit around and let someone else take his girl(*sprays water on self*). Ryker is one hell of an alpha male; jealous, possessive, but also caring and supportive of Kat's dreams. He helps her study and wants her to continue having a good relationship with her friends. Kat is goal oriented, and definitely not a damsel in distress; when Ryker loses his stuff at work, Kat is not afraid to tell him to back off. She may be insecure, but she's not weak. 

In case you couldn't tell by anything I've said previously, I LOVED THIS BOOK. It is so freaking amazing, and it's safe! By safe, I mean that Ryker isn't out trying to bang other girls to get Kat off of his mind; and when he does try, Kat seems to be there reminding him of exactly why he hasn't even wanted to touch another girl since he met Kat. Kat tries to push him out of her mind, and when she does try to get Ryker out, he is right there to remind her that it ain't happening. 

I'm pretty sure I could fangirl over this book ALL NIGHT but you will just have to read it to see. And when you do, message me so we can talk about it. I'm not even kidding. 

[Kelly · Rating 4 out of 5]

A good read

My Mind's Eye by Gillian Jones was such an enjoyable read. It was one of those books where I started with the intention of just reading a couple of chapters before going to bed last night, and the next thing I'm at 80% and I have to put it down cause it was really, really late!

It was a little bit angsty, but not overly. I love a good slow burn romance where the 2 main characters take ages to sort themselves out, so I enjoyed going along for the ride with Ryker and Kat.

There is a lot of miscommunication between these two, due to Ryker's hit it and quit it reputation. Kat is determined not to be another notch on his bedpost, but really, as soon as Ryker lays eyes on Kat he is mesmerised. Even though he fights it at times, she's his game changer.

This book is also told in dual POV, which I love. I really enjoy being able to read what both Kat and Ryker are feeling towards the other, and how they are both on the same wavelength.

And we also have the fun bestie Claire, who is all about good times, and the annoying ex Seth, who just won't go away - adds that little bit of tension to the story where the reader is left wondering........is something going to happen??

[K.L. Donn · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book, I do feel it straddles in between the genres of young adult and new adult and deals with situations typical to people in their early 20’s. The first half of the book gives a “young adult” vibe, then the second half of the book TAKES OFF into new adult/explicit content -clutching my pearls-things are happening! Book is in full swing! Or should I say SCHWING BABY! Seriously hot!! Here’s why “God, Hot Girl, I can’t wait to sink into your hot ‘n tight pussy from behind; the view alone will be enough to drive me insane, baby. Ass up, those fucking tits jiggling all around,” he grinds out, teeth clearly clenched. “I’ve been watching you shake that ass for way too long. It’s time you shake it with me rooted to the hilt of your pussy while you grind down, milking my cock. Fuck! We need to get the hell outta here,” he all out growls.” The story takes place in a college town and the bar everyone is drawn to hang out in. The protagonists Kat Rollins and Ryker Eddison find themselves working together, maybe too closely together for this playboy who doesn’t want to settle down. Some of the initial story is filled with extensive details and background information about Kat. This could be shortened and tightened up for greater fluidity. However, it does give the reader a chance to really get to know the heroine outside the romantic intentions of the story. Kat’s very likable and cute and as a full time student she needs a job. She’s too neurotic for the typical college experience and working at the bar brings her into Ryker’s hedonistic world. Your hero is not, I say this with love “the settling down type”. He’s more of a “one night man”. His inner monologue can be cringe worthy! The boy is NOT lacking in self love and his ego is a little too healthy. Ok, I’ll say it-he’s a manwhore. Due to his “one night only” policy he tried to avoid Kat(his Kitty Kat-you name it, it’s your boy!) They might even keep a bowl at the bar for girls to leave their name, number and “qualifications” for Ryker and his gorgeous brother. Kat’s best friend Claire is hilarious, probably my favorite secondary character in the book. Here a small taste of Claire- “Besides —oh, my God, woman— did you see Matt? Jesus, Kat. That man is F-I-N-E. I swear, when he came up behind me to dance last night, my vagina started reciting a soliloquy about how badly she needed to meet his cock. Shit, that man can dance. And he fucks like he dances, so my vagina and me are very happy girls,” she says, before sauntering up the stairs.” The humor in the story is yet another reason to recommend this book, I laughed or smirked frequently to moments like this: “I smile at the shock in her question. I know, I’ve been a dick, baby. “You’re drunk. You’d better be a good girl tonight, baby. No guys are to touch you. Get me?” “What do you care, Ry-ker?” Kat enunciates my name in a cute slur. “I mean, you can’t even talk to me in full sentences most of the time, or at all in over a month now. Then you’re hot one second, then cold the next…” she trails off. “Speaking of hot, you’re so hot; did you know that?” The story of Kitty Kat and HoneyButter left me smiling! I will admit there were times I just shouted at my Kindle “OMG Ryker Fuq her already” but that because I’m a dirty little bird- and because Gillian Jones is a big ole TEASE!! She had me salivating for these two to get together. The author did an impressive job at building up the anticipation and heat leading up to a very satisfying HEA. This book deserves its 4 Sexy Stars rating and I can’t wait to see how this author matures.
By Jeannie G

[Melissa Mendoza · Rating 4 out of 5]

Title: My Mind’s Eye
Author: Gillian Jones
Series: Pub Fiction Series, Book #1
Release Date: May 31, 2015
Genre(s): NA Romance
Page Count: 350
Heat Level: 3 flames out of 5
Rating: 4 stars out of 5
Blurb:

Ryker

She is the epitome of the girl next door, but with a feistiness that makes my dick throb.
I'm drawn to her like no other. She stirs things in me I have no desire to feel, makes me long for things I shouldn't.

This is my game. I choose the players. I never play for keeps.

I don't believe in fate. I make my own destiny. I work hard and play harder. Luck is for pussies, karma for idiots. Me, I make shit happen.

Meeting her fucked up my plan. Threw me off my game.

I'm now face to face with my karma. Her name is Kat Rollins.

Kat

Ryker Eddison is the epitome of a player. You know the type: Mr. Get In and Get Out.

He's all about the chase, wanting just one night. Everyone knows this, I know this. Still, I find myself craving him, my greedy body betraying what my heart and mind already know: he will only bring me pain.

He's the guy that girls like me should avoid. I'm smart, I know better. But when I'm with him, I feel things I’ve never felt before. Things I never knew I wanted.

I can't deny it … I like the chase. The high is explosive but I'm afraid if I give in, I may end up losing more than I can handle: my heart.

Review:
“‘You’re welcome, sweet girl,’ he says before kissing the side of my mouth. I will my brain to make my face turn that fraction it needs for full contact, but of course, my whole being is so overwhelmed that it doesn’t cooperate.”

4 player stars!! What a sexy first book in the series!! I need more…. Please!

Ryker is the total player, a complete love them and leave them kind of guy!! So when he meets Kat that all changes. She makes him feel things he hasn’t felt for a girl in a long time, if ever! Kat knows better than to fall for the bad boy player, but one look at him and she’s hooked. Are these two ready to give up their heart?

I really enjoyed this book, a lot more than I thought I would. I loved the characters, in fact I totally fell for them as I read!! The story was intriguing and a lot of fun!! Plenty of laughter, good times and a sexy romance!!


ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review. Reviewed by Melissa from Alpha Book Club

[Lorena Tucholke · Rating 5 out of 5]

Esta es una reseña que debí escribir hace un par de meses atras. Esta es la novela debut de esta autora y yo la amé desde el minuto uno.
Esta es la historia de Kat y Ryker. Dos personajes muy particulares y muy fuertes, y la atracción que los tiene conectados.
La mejor parte de este libro es que esta escrito desde ambos puntos de vistas , de esa forma uno puede saber lo que está pasando en la cabeza de ambos.
debo reconocer que al principio Kat me volvió loca, pero a medida de que la historia fue tomando forma empezó a ser mas llevadera.
Me encantó la forma en que Ryker se enamoró de Kat, él supó desde el comienzo que ella era la elegida.
La participación de los mejores amigos de ambos es un punto muy especial en la historia, ya que agrega carácter al libro.
Al principio ambos son muy cuidadosos sobre la atracción que sienten, y estan como reticentes a actuar sobre ella. Pero las malas expericiencias de ambos no impide que terminen juntos en una relación super caliente.
Me encantan los libros sobre universitarios, asi que este libro fue muy bien recibido. Es un libro con una historia dulce, sexy y por momentos super caliente, que te va a llevar a un hermoso viaje página trás página.
Ahora no veo la hora de poder leer el siguiente en la serie.


This is a review that I should write a couple of months ago. This is the debut novel of this author and I loved it from minute one.
This is the story of Kat and Ryker. Two very special and very strong characters, and the attraction that has them connected.
The best part of this book is that it is written from both points of view, that way you can know what's going on in the heads of both.
I must admit that at first Kat drove me crazy, but as the story took shape became more bearable.
I loved how Ryker fell in love with Kat , he knew from the start that she was the one.
The participation of both best friends is a very special point in the story because it adds character to the book.
At first both are very careful about their attraction, and are as reluctant to act on it. But bad experiences not prevent both finished together in a super hot relationship.
I love books about college, so this book was very well received. It is a book with a sweet, sexy story and super hot moments that will take you to a beautiful trip page after page.
Now I can not wait to be able to read the next in the series. Give this book an opportunity, it's worth!!
Great job Gillian!!

[Jade · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 STARS
This is Gillian Jones' debut book and it's pretty damn great! I know readers sometimes are hesitant to try a fresh new author. Which I don't really get, I love finding new authors and even more so when I fall in love with their story and characters. So first of all I'd say if you're going to take a chance on a new author, take a chance on Gillian and introduce yourself to Ryker and Kat!


I'm not really sure what I expected going into this but I really loved it! It is a college romance, so it does have that college setting but it's unlike any college romance I've read before. With his mind dead set on focusing on his future career goals, Ryker certainly doesn't have the time for a more-than-one-night kind of chick.

"One night only.
You see, this is a game for me. One, where I make the rules, choose the players and never play for keeps."

Kat is also focused. Out of a relationship, away from one asshole she certainly doesn't need another one complicating her life. Especially not a certain somebody whose form of communication is to growl at her.

"Fuck him. I mean, who growls, anyway? What is he, a damned animal?"

At first I had a hard time connecting with the story. I was unsure of Claire and Kat's friendship and Kat's dialogue was sometimes a little formal and awkward for me but as the story developed so did my connection with the character's and the story itself. Not in a sadistic way or anything but my favourite thing about Kat was her anxiety. It's a huge thing for her character to get through and for the characters around her. Through her anxiety her character grows tons and it was really heart warming to go on that journey with her. So there is plenty of build up to Ryker and Kat's relationship I was sure I was going to burst BUT when they do get together it's so so so worth it! They have their own uncertainty's to deal with along with the looming threat of an ex but seeing their relationship develop on so many different levels is brilliant and just makes you love them even more! Kat had hurdles to overcome as did Ryker. Ryker. Gosh. He was ambitious, caring and oh so deliciously filthy. I enjoyed this thoroughly and Gillian made all her characters easy to love and I am super excited to see what's next.