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Hypothesis #1
Attraction
He is everything she doesn’t want, so why does she want him so badly?
From the New York Times Bestselling Author Penny Reid
One week.
Private beach.
Invisible girl.
Jerk-faced bully.
What’s the worst that could happen?
Kaitlyn Parker has no problem being the invisible girl, which is why she finds herself hiding in various cabinets and closets all over her college campus. Despite her best efforts, she can’t escape the notice of Martin Sandeke—bad boy, jerkface bully, and the universe’s hottest, wealthiest, and most unobtainable bachelor—who also happens to be Kaitlyn’s chemistry lab partner.
Kaitlyn might be the only girl who isn’t interested in exploiting his stunning rower’s build, chiseled features, and family's billionaire fortune. Kaitlyn wants Martin for his brain, specifically to tabulate findings of trace elements in surface water.
When Kaitlyn saves Martin from a nefarious plot, Martin uses the opportunity to push Kaitlyn out of her comfort zone: spring break, one week, house parties, bathing suits, and suntan lotion. Can she overcome her aversion to being noticed? Will he be able grow beyond his self-centered nature? Or, despite their obvious chemistry, will Martin be the one to drive Kaitlyn into the science cabinet of obscurity for good?
Where to read more of the Hypothesis Series
Book 1 ATTRACTION (ends in a cliffhanger!)
Book 2 HEAT (ends in a cliffhanger!)
Book 3 CAPTURE (no cliffhanger)
Book 4 MOTION (ends in a cliffhanger!)
Book 5 SPACE (ends in a cliffhanger!)
Book 6 TIME (no cliffhanger)
From the New York Times Bestselling Author Penny Reid
One week.
Private beach.
Invisible girl.
Jerk-faced bully.
What’s the worst that could happen?
Kaitlyn Parker has no problem being the invisible girl, which is why she finds herself hiding in various cabinets and closets all over her college campus. Despite her best efforts, she can’t escape the notice of Martin Sandeke—bad boy, jerkface bully, and the universe’s hottest, wealthiest, and most unobtainable bachelor—who also happens to be Kaitlyn’s chemistry lab partner.
Kaitlyn might be the only girl who isn’t interested in exploiting his stunning rower’s build, chiseled features, and family's billionaire fortune. Kaitlyn wants Martin for his brain, specifically to tabulate findings of trace elements in surface water.
When Kaitlyn saves Martin from a nefarious plot, Martin uses the opportunity to push Kaitlyn out of her comfort zone: spring break, one week, house parties, bathing suits, and suntan lotion. Can she overcome her aversion to being noticed? Will he be able grow beyond his self-centered nature? Or, despite their obvious chemistry, will Martin be the one to drive Kaitlyn into the science cabinet of obscurity for good?
Where to read more of the Hypothesis Series
Book 1 ATTRACTION (ends in a cliffhanger!)
Book 2 HEAT (ends in a cliffhanger!)
Book 3 CAPTURE (no cliffhanger)
Book 4 MOTION (ends in a cliffhanger!)
Book 5 SPACE (ends in a cliffhanger!)
Book 6 TIME (no cliffhanger)
154 pages, ebook
First published April 6, 2015
1312 people are currently reading
14306 people want to read
About the author
Penny Reid
90 books22.3k followersSign up for the newsletter of awesome: www.pennyreid.ninja/newsletter
Penny Reid is the New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and USA Today bestselling author of the Winston Brothers and Knitting in the City series. She used to spend her days writing federal grant proposals as a biomedical researcher, but now she writes kissing books. Penny is an obsessive knitter and manages the #OwnVoices-focused mentorship incubator / publishing imprint, Smartypants Romance. She lives in Seattle Washington with her husband, three kids, and dog named Hazel.
FOLLOW PENNY:
Facebook: www.facebook.com/pennyreidwriter
Twitter: www.twitter.com/reidromance
Instagram:www.instagram.com/reidromance
Penny Reid is the New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and USA Today bestselling author of the Winston Brothers and Knitting in the City series. She used to spend her days writing federal grant proposals as a biomedical researcher, but now she writes kissing books. Penny is an obsessive knitter and manages the #OwnVoices-focused mentorship incubator / publishing imprint, Smartypants Romance. She lives in Seattle Washington with her husband, three kids, and dog named Hazel.
FOLLOW PENNY:
Facebook: www.facebook.com/pennyreidwriter
Twitter: www.twitter.com/reidromance
Instagram:www.instagram.com/reidromance
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 2,190 reviews
September 17, 2017
5 'Like Awesome' stars!
The more Penny Reid that I read, the more I love her! All her books are funny, feisty and smart. Elements of Chemistry: Attraction is the start of a three part series about lab partners Martin and Katy.
Katy, also known as Parker, is intelligent. She’s a bit socially awkward and beautiful in a way that’s not traditional. She’s also hilarious and insanely attracted to her jerk-face lab partner, Martin. Martin is popular, handsome, athletic, rich, the whole package. A series of events leads him to notice Katy more than he ever has before…
Martin and Parker end up on a vacation together. Katy brings her best friend, and Martin brings the other rowers on his team. Their time together is interesting to say the least. Although Katy is immensely attracted to Martin, she sees him more than just an attractive guy. She sees him as a man who needs a friend.
And Martin is out to prove it to her that he wants her for more than just one thing as well…
Elements of Chemistry is an insanely clever, funny, sexy and unique new adult romance. I devoured it in one sitting. It was fantastic. The writing, the characters, the plot, all of it. It does end in a cliffhanger, and yes, that cliffhanger gutted me… but thankfully there was a sneak peak for Heat at the end that eases the ache a bit. I am so excited for the rest of this series- for more Martin and Katy!
The more Penny Reid that I read, the more I love her! All her books are funny, feisty and smart. Elements of Chemistry: Attraction is the start of a three part series about lab partners Martin and Katy.
Katy, also known as Parker, is intelligent. She’s a bit socially awkward and beautiful in a way that’s not traditional. She’s also hilarious and insanely attracted to her jerk-face lab partner, Martin. Martin is popular, handsome, athletic, rich, the whole package. A series of events leads him to notice Katy more than he ever has before…
Martin and Parker end up on a vacation together. Katy brings her best friend, and Martin brings the other rowers on his team. Their time together is interesting to say the least. Although Katy is immensely attracted to Martin, she sees him more than just an attractive guy. She sees him as a man who needs a friend.
“He needs a friend and all I can think about is doing very bad things to his body.”
“You’re starved for physical intimacy. He’s starved for emotional intimacy. Maybe you can help him and help yourself.”
“I don’t want to use him like that. I think his whole life people have been trying to use him.”
And Martin is out to prove it to her that he wants her for more than just one thing as well…
Elements of Chemistry is an insanely clever, funny, sexy and unique new adult romance. I devoured it in one sitting. It was fantastic. The writing, the characters, the plot, all of it. It does end in a cliffhanger, and yes, that cliffhanger gutted me… but thankfully there was a sneak peak for Heat at the end that eases the ache a bit. I am so excited for the rest of this series- for more Martin and Katy!
February 15, 2017
This was a light-hearted, fun story that had me smiling from start to finish. I enjoyed every minute of this audiobook. I needed something kind of sweet and this was the perfect story.
Kaitlyn Parker is an introvert and a very quirky girl. She's been matched as a lab partner with Martin Sandeke for 2 years. Despite the fact that they both come from families of extreme wealth and fame, the two couldn't be more different on the surface. She's the studious loner and he's the resident manwhore.
The two have never spoken outside of the lab, until Kaitlyn overhears something that she shouldn't have. When she hears the conniving plan of one of Martin's supposed friends, she knows that she has to tell Martin what she's overheard. She might think that Martin is a total "jerkface", but she can't stand by silently while somebody plans to drug him and have their way with him. That's taking it too far.
When Kaitlyn approaches Martin to tell him about what she heard, the dynamics of their relationship changes immediately. Soon the two are engaged in a whirlwind romance. Martin convinces Kaitlyn to go away to his island home with him and some friends for a week. Let the fun begin!
One minute they're hot. The next they're cold. Both of them have some definite personality quirks and social hang-ups to contend with. Together, they're absolutely hilarious. Kaitlyn's inner monologue was enough to keep me in stitches. That girl was too funny!
Martin had plenty of selfish moments, which made for some tense moments. He was certainly used to getting exactly what he wanted, when he wanted it. Kaitlyn was good for him in that regard. She was the first woman that didn't just throw herself at his feet.
Of course, this is only the first serial installment in the 'Elements of Chemistry' series. Accordingly, you can expect a cliffhanger ending that will leave you wanting the next serial immediately. Luckily, I waited until they were all released. So, I didn't have to wait before diving into the next one.
This was a great, short, and absolutely adorable audiobook. It was sweet and very funny. The narration was great as well. It was a nice change of pace and I was able to jump right into the next one immediately.
Check out more of my reviews at www.bookaddicthaven.com
Kaitlyn Parker is an introvert and a very quirky girl. She's been matched as a lab partner with Martin Sandeke for 2 years. Despite the fact that they both come from families of extreme wealth and fame, the two couldn't be more different on the surface. She's the studious loner and he's the resident manwhore.
The two have never spoken outside of the lab, until Kaitlyn overhears something that she shouldn't have. When she hears the conniving plan of one of Martin's supposed friends, she knows that she has to tell Martin what she's overheard. She might think that Martin is a total "jerkface", but she can't stand by silently while somebody plans to drug him and have their way with him. That's taking it too far.
When Kaitlyn approaches Martin to tell him about what she heard, the dynamics of their relationship changes immediately. Soon the two are engaged in a whirlwind romance. Martin convinces Kaitlyn to go away to his island home with him and some friends for a week. Let the fun begin!
One minute they're hot. The next they're cold. Both of them have some definite personality quirks and social hang-ups to contend with. Together, they're absolutely hilarious. Kaitlyn's inner monologue was enough to keep me in stitches. That girl was too funny!
Martin had plenty of selfish moments, which made for some tense moments. He was certainly used to getting exactly what he wanted, when he wanted it. Kaitlyn was good for him in that regard. She was the first woman that didn't just throw herself at his feet.
Of course, this is only the first serial installment in the 'Elements of Chemistry' series. Accordingly, you can expect a cliffhanger ending that will leave you wanting the next serial immediately. Luckily, I waited until they were all released. So, I didn't have to wait before diving into the next one.
This was a great, short, and absolutely adorable audiobook. It was sweet and very funny. The narration was great as well. It was a nice change of pace and I was able to jump right into the next one immediately.
Check out more of my reviews at www.bookaddicthaven.com
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October 5, 2020
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Buy a Signed Paperback Copy from Penny's Store
April 7, 2015
4.5 stars!!
I have been in a book slump the past few days, starting and stopping 5 books that just weren’t grabbing my attention, and then I decided to give this book a try seeing that many of my book buddies loved it. OMG. Best decision ever because I LOVED IT!!! Right from the start there was this special spark to the story and just from reading the first few pages I knew this book was going to be a winner. The writing was smart, the banter was extremely witty and had me giggling like a harlot, and the chemistry was off the charts amazing. One of my favorite NA romances of the year for sure!
One thing that really made this book stand out for me is how clever this story is. I let the plot marinate in my head for a few hours and honestly? There is nothing new plot-wise this book has to offer to the NA genre. There is the typical rich, entitled, cocky, and a bit standoffish hero, and how he’s secretly interested in the heroine who’s socially awkward but a beautiful nerd. But what made this storyline work here is definitely the strong, addicting writing. Penny Reid sells the story. There is no writer quite like her, and her brand of smart, sass, and wit weaved into the book brings these characters to life. The heroine Kaitlyn is someone I’d normally find irritating with all her odd quirks and shy social personality but I seriously loved her in here. She was endearing, and the way Penny portrayed her character displayed this strong/vulnerable dual personality that I personally found very easy to relate to. Same goes for the delectable hero Martin. Sure, he’s got the good looks and confidence down, but once again, he’s realistically and charmingly portrayed and despite all the cliché descriptions of him, Penny sells his character. And holy flying cow!! When Kaitlyn and Martin are together, I just combust. I don’t blame Kaitlyn one bit for feeling flustered and unable to speak when around him ;)
I’m not going into detail about the plot because there really isn’t much to say about it other than what the blurb already reveals. Plus, this book was more of a long novella and it goes by fast once you start reading so I’d rather let everyone experience the fun ride on their own. Before diving in, I already knew the book would end in a cliffhanger but I honestly don’t care that I was left hanging. I’d rather read an amazing book and take a brutal cliffy than read a bad book with a resolved, yet unsatisfying ending. But most of all, I want to say that the cliffy isn’t something you should worry over anyways. Penny adds in a bonus sneak peek to book 2 at the very end that’ll soothe your heart and tide you over for the time being, and the next book will be released in just a few weeks. I can already see the Elements of Chemistry series becoming my latest book addiction, and I’m counting down the days to book 2’s release!
Attraction is part 1 of 3 in the Elements of Chemistry series following the same couple and ends on a cliffhanger. Just FYI, this book ends at the 81% mark BUT after that is the first chapter of book 2 that’ll make you feel better about that cliffy :)
I have been in a book slump the past few days, starting and stopping 5 books that just weren’t grabbing my attention, and then I decided to give this book a try seeing that many of my book buddies loved it. OMG. Best decision ever because I LOVED IT!!! Right from the start there was this special spark to the story and just from reading the first few pages I knew this book was going to be a winner. The writing was smart, the banter was extremely witty and had me giggling like a harlot, and the chemistry was off the charts amazing. One of my favorite NA romances of the year for sure!
One thing that really made this book stand out for me is how clever this story is. I let the plot marinate in my head for a few hours and honestly? There is nothing new plot-wise this book has to offer to the NA genre. There is the typical rich, entitled, cocky, and a bit standoffish hero, and how he’s secretly interested in the heroine who’s socially awkward but a beautiful nerd. But what made this storyline work here is definitely the strong, addicting writing. Penny Reid sells the story. There is no writer quite like her, and her brand of smart, sass, and wit weaved into the book brings these characters to life. The heroine Kaitlyn is someone I’d normally find irritating with all her odd quirks and shy social personality but I seriously loved her in here. She was endearing, and the way Penny portrayed her character displayed this strong/vulnerable dual personality that I personally found very easy to relate to. Same goes for the delectable hero Martin. Sure, he’s got the good looks and confidence down, but once again, he’s realistically and charmingly portrayed and despite all the cliché descriptions of him, Penny sells his character. And holy flying cow!! When Kaitlyn and Martin are together, I just combust. I don’t blame Kaitlyn one bit for feeling flustered and unable to speak when around him ;)
I’m not going into detail about the plot because there really isn’t much to say about it other than what the blurb already reveals. Plus, this book was more of a long novella and it goes by fast once you start reading so I’d rather let everyone experience the fun ride on their own. Before diving in, I already knew the book would end in a cliffhanger but I honestly don’t care that I was left hanging. I’d rather read an amazing book and take a brutal cliffy than read a bad book with a resolved, yet unsatisfying ending. But most of all, I want to say that the cliffy isn’t something you should worry over anyways. Penny adds in a bonus sneak peek to book 2 at the very end that’ll soothe your heart and tide you over for the time being, and the next book will be released in just a few weeks. I can already see the Elements of Chemistry series becoming my latest book addiction, and I’m counting down the days to book 2’s release!
Attraction is part 1 of 3 in the Elements of Chemistry series following the same couple and ends on a cliffhanger. Just FYI, this book ends at the 81% mark BUT after that is the first chapter of book 2 that’ll make you feel better about that cliffy :)
May 1, 2015
5 Geek-tatstic Stars
I am late to this party and there are numerous far more well-written reviews out there, so I will keep this short.
Even though I knew this thing ended in a cliffhanger, I sill have to express something here...
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*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
Sorry, I just had to get that out.
Seriously though.
I hate this recent cliffhanger trend even more than I hate the new trilogy/serial trend.
In fact, you might say, I hate this element to distraction.
LOLZ.
Holy shit, I have turned into my father, he of uber shiteous puns.
I almost wanted to take off a star for it (the cliffhanger, not my super fucking lame joke), but that would be completely unfair because I knew that periodic was on this table and I still sat down to eat.
Thus, since it was my enlightened choice, no stars shall suffer unfairly for it.
So boo-fucking-hoo in that regard, but moving on.
I officially love Penny Reid.
HARD.
She writes one of my most favorite types of characters:
The unapologetic nerd.
For real though.
Lots of people write about nerds, but Reid writes them in a way I totally dig.
Perhaps it's because she writes the nerd I wish I had been in college instead of the one I was:
The CLOSET nerd.
Definition of a "closet nerd" (as applied to moi):
A scholarship jock who hung out and partied with the cool kids...but studied the dictionary, carried around a thesaurus FOR FUN and read regency romance, Lords of the Rings, and werewolf/vampire romance (before they were cool) tucked into textbooks aka "camouflage" in between jello shots.
Ah, adolescent insecurity, what a ridiculous waste of time you were.
But I digress.
Seriously though, Penny Reid writes cool and interesting people with such unabashed conviction.
I love Kaitlyn.
I love that she just is who she is and says exactly what's on her mind.
And makes no apologies for it.
I can't wait to see what happens in book two.
Which I guess I shall have to patiently wait for...
I am late to this party and there are numerous far more well-written reviews out there, so I will keep this short.
Even though I knew this thing ended in a cliffhanger, I sill have to express something here...
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
Sorry, I just had to get that out.
Seriously though.
I hate this recent cliffhanger trend even more than I hate the new trilogy/serial trend.
In fact, you might say, I hate this element to distraction.
LOLZ.
Holy shit, I have turned into my father, he of uber shiteous puns.
I almost wanted to take off a star for it (the cliffhanger, not my super fucking lame joke), but that would be completely unfair because I knew that periodic was on this table and I still sat down to eat.
Thus, since it was my enlightened choice, no stars shall suffer unfairly for it.
So boo-fucking-hoo in that regard, but moving on.
I officially love Penny Reid.
HARD.
She writes one of my most favorite types of characters:
The unapologetic nerd.
For real though.
Lots of people write about nerds, but Reid writes them in a way I totally dig.
Perhaps it's because she writes the nerd I wish I had been in college instead of the one I was:
The CLOSET nerd.
Definition of a "closet nerd" (as applied to moi):
A scholarship jock who hung out and partied with the cool kids...but studied the dictionary, carried around a thesaurus FOR FUN and read regency romance, Lords of the Rings, and werewolf/vampire romance (before they were cool) tucked into textbooks aka "camouflage" in between jello shots.
Ah, adolescent insecurity, what a ridiculous waste of time you were.
But I digress.
Seriously though, Penny Reid writes cool and interesting people with such unabashed conviction.
I love Kaitlyn.
I love that she just is who she is and says exactly what's on her mind.
And makes no apologies for it.
I can't wait to see what happens in book two.
Which I guess I shall have to patiently wait for...
March 18, 2015
5 Chemical Stars.
Katy is a sweet but nerdy girl who’s used to be invisible. Actually, she doesn't mind.
Until the day that she overheard a conversation regarding Martin, the rich playboy that every person on college knows about… and the guy that makes Katelyn’s heart beat faster. Said conversation finally makes Martin notices her (well… outside chemistry classes, where they are partners).
Martin makes clear he wants her. Katy makes clear they don’t fit together. But in a battle against attraction where chemical reactions speaks louder than wits… who will win?
I normally take my “NA Fix” on small doses, because when all the books look alike it’s easy to get bored with the genre. There were some very predictable elements in this book. Said elements (virgin heroine, rich-asshole-playboy hero, instant attraction, among others…) are, in my opinion, what makes NA sometimes tiresome. However… in this book I didn’t feel it. Maybe because they are so well embedded in the story that you almost don’t notice them. Or maybe it’s because the book is so well written and the storyline is so engaging that you simply don’t care.
In a way that only Penny can, this was at the same time one very refreshing book, with great dialogue and interaction between the MC’s, but was still able to maintain the author’s quirk and smart humor… and that humor is what makes her books stand out.
And let me tell you that after this ending, I don’t need just the next Element book. I need the whole periodic table!! Penny! Get those fingers movin’, woman!!
If you want to read NA… this book is a great choice. (Unless you don’t like to wait between books… in that case you should wait until the series is complete.)
Rating: 5 Stars.
Characters Development: Martin is the “jerk” that we hate to love. He’s rich, entitled and arrogant. And yet there’s a soft side to him and a “brokenness” that makes us loving him. He has a lot to make up for in the next book, but I’m rooting for the dude!! Katy is the sweet and geeky girl that’s easy to love. She doesn’t completely fit in and she lives a lot in her world. She’s sweet, caring and honest and it’s impossible not to like her. There were some pretty good supporting characters, especially Sam!
Steam: Some heated scenes.
Sensible Subjects:
Love Triangle:
Cheating:
HEA:
*ARC kindly provided in exchange of honest review.*
Katy is a sweet but nerdy girl who’s used to be invisible. Actually, she doesn't mind.
Until the day that she overheard a conversation regarding Martin, the rich playboy that every person on college knows about… and the guy that makes Katelyn’s heart beat faster. Said conversation finally makes Martin notices her (well… outside chemistry classes, where they are partners).
Martin makes clear he wants her. Katy makes clear they don’t fit together. But in a battle against attraction where chemical reactions speaks louder than wits… who will win?
I normally take my “NA Fix” on small doses, because when all the books look alike it’s easy to get bored with the genre. There were some very predictable elements in this book. Said elements (virgin heroine, rich-asshole-playboy hero, instant attraction, among others…) are, in my opinion, what makes NA sometimes tiresome. However… in this book I didn’t feel it. Maybe because they are so well embedded in the story that you almost don’t notice them. Or maybe it’s because the book is so well written and the storyline is so engaging that you simply don’t care.
In a way that only Penny can, this was at the same time one very refreshing book, with great dialogue and interaction between the MC’s, but was still able to maintain the author’s quirk and smart humor… and that humor is what makes her books stand out.
And let me tell you that after this ending, I don’t need just the next Element book. I need the whole periodic table!! Penny! Get those fingers movin’, woman!!
If you want to read NA… this book is a great choice. (Unless you don’t like to wait between books… in that case you should wait until the series is complete.)
Rating: 5 Stars.
Characters Development: Martin is the “jerk” that we hate to love. He’s rich, entitled and arrogant. And yet there’s a soft side to him and a “brokenness” that makes us loving him. He has a lot to make up for in the next book, but I’m rooting for the dude!! Katy is the sweet and geeky girl that’s easy to love. She doesn’t completely fit in and she lives a lot in her world. She’s sweet, caring and honest and it’s impossible not to like her. There were some pretty good supporting characters, especially Sam!
Steam: Some heated scenes.
Sensible Subjects:
Love Triangle:
Cheating:
HEA:
*ARC kindly provided in exchange of honest review.*
June 4, 2015
"I hoped Martin Sandeke had no idea that he affected the heat levels of my figurative Bunsen burner."
First and foremost - This book is
While many of the typical elements found in NA stories were present in Attraction, I didn't bother me. NOT ONE BIT. The story is entertaining and fun, while the writing is quirky and utterly brilliant. Seriously I highly recommend this to anyone looking for a fun, smart, romance. Part 2 is scheduled to release April 30th, and part 3 on May 15th, thank all that is holy that I won't have to wait too long to get back to Kaitlyn and Martin.
May 9, 2015
5 STARS! ★★★★★
"I hoped Martin Sandeke had no idea that he affected the heat levels of my figurative Bunsen burner."
If anybody can put the smart in a romance, it's gotta be Penny Reid. I can say this easily now and hands down after finishing Elements of Chemistry: Attraction. It's just one of those books that I could already tell it will be an epic read the moment I finished the first chapter because the writing was just. that. good. There was this huge goofy grin smacked on my face the entire time which I could not get rid of!
This instalment starts off with Kaitlyn "Katy" Parker overhearing a devious plot that involves her chemistry lab partner, Martin Sandeke and while she admits that she's very much physically attracted to him, Katy knows better than to get involved with the popular jock cum manwhore. In a kind attempt to save him by spilling out the deets, her world is about to be spun off its axis when she gets more in return which involves a sudden kiss from Martin who apparently had his eyes on her for a long while already.
With the simmering attraction now being set in, it won't be long before the chemistry start to works its magic and what better way to ignite the sparks by going on a spring break trip. A trip that will find both themselves figuring out what this attraction truly means between them.
Now the only work I've read so far from Penny is from the The Hooker and the Hermit and when I fell in love with the way she portrayed Annie, I knew I had to have this author on my radar. If there's anything I learnt so far after finishing this, it's that her heroines are smart, quirky and has a brilliant sense of humor and wit. Katy here is no exception at all.
Nerdy, awkward and an introvert by nature; Katy was such an endearing character and a lot of times, I saw a glimpse of myself in her. She was never afraid to speak her mind and her awkward inner monologues sent me in a frenzy of giggles or giving out mental high-fives. I love that Penny writes her heroines that don't immediately scream beautiful on the surface but the kind of beauty she portrays in her heroines are the self-empowered females that aren't shy in admitting their flaws and can be proud of who they are.
Can I just say how much I ADORE Katy that she was such an unapologetic nerd (the LoTR debate truly took me by surprise!) and how she was never afraid to stand up to Martin or the other guys when it came to her self-image. My personal favs are her takes on the misogynistic view and about men acting all possessive-like; those were just wickedly brilliant!
Martin on the other hand was a pretty enigmatic character I must say. We didn't get his POV at all but surprisingly I thought it fit quite well with the read. It does add an element of mystery with his character and serves for a much needed angst in this read. But as the story unfolds, we do get glimpses of what lies underneath that layer of sexiness and just like Katy, I was falling hard for Martin too. He's always been used to getting what he wants but with Katy, it's a whole different ballgame and I enjoyed watching how their attraction brought them closer in ways than they'd imagined.
And as much as I hate to say it, this one ends on a pretty huge cliffhanger that would send readers like me into an anxiety attack while I patiently wait for the next one. Thankfully, it's only less than a month till the next instalment is out but I'm not gonna lie...it's killing me already not to have the next one NOW!! I'm so close to throwing a junk-punch when I hit the ending and then proceed to think of ways I can bribe Penny to send me the next one already (oh lordy yes, I am a very desperate lady right now!).
There are not enough words and possibly synonyms to the word 'brilliant' & 'amazing' that I can use to describe how much I enjoyed this read. The intelligence and humor that Penny brings out in her writing is a testament to what this lady is capable of when it comes to writing a smart romance. If anyone can make science sexy, it's Penny Reid.
EoC: Attraction had everything a NA book should strive to achieve; the right balance of quirk, humor, angst and steam but most of all, endearing and realistic characters that will make you feel. I would highly recommend this series to everyone and anyone who's looking for a entertaining, creative & refreshing NA read!
Now Lord please grant me the strength and patience to make it through the wait for the second one.
Elements of Chemistry: Attraction is the first part of a trilogy series called Hypothesis and each instalment will be released within a month of each other. This series is a NA contemporary romance read.
ARC kindly provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
"I hoped Martin Sandeke had no idea that he affected the heat levels of my figurative Bunsen burner."
If anybody can put the smart in a romance, it's gotta be Penny Reid. I can say this easily now and hands down after finishing Elements of Chemistry: Attraction. It's just one of those books that I could already tell it will be an epic read the moment I finished the first chapter because the writing was just. that. good. There was this huge goofy grin smacked on my face the entire time which I could not get rid of!
This instalment starts off with Kaitlyn "Katy" Parker overhearing a devious plot that involves her chemistry lab partner, Martin Sandeke and while she admits that she's very much physically attracted to him, Katy knows better than to get involved with the popular jock cum manwhore. In a kind attempt to save him by spilling out the deets, her world is about to be spun off its axis when she gets more in return which involves a sudden kiss from Martin who apparently had his eyes on her for a long while already.
With the simmering attraction now being set in, it won't be long before the chemistry start to works its magic and what better way to ignite the sparks by going on a spring break trip. A trip that will find both themselves figuring out what this attraction truly means between them.
Now the only work I've read so far from Penny is from the The Hooker and the Hermit and when I fell in love with the way she portrayed Annie, I knew I had to have this author on my radar. If there's anything I learnt so far after finishing this, it's that her heroines are smart, quirky and has a brilliant sense of humor and wit. Katy here is no exception at all.
Nerdy, awkward and an introvert by nature; Katy was such an endearing character and a lot of times, I saw a glimpse of myself in her. She was never afraid to speak her mind and her awkward inner monologues sent me in a frenzy of giggles or giving out mental high-fives. I love that Penny writes her heroines that don't immediately scream beautiful on the surface but the kind of beauty she portrays in her heroines are the self-empowered females that aren't shy in admitting their flaws and can be proud of who they are.
Can I just say how much I ADORE Katy that she was such an unapologetic nerd (the LoTR debate truly took me by surprise!) and how she was never afraid to stand up to Martin or the other guys when it came to her self-image. My personal favs are her takes on the misogynistic view and about men acting all possessive-like; those were just wickedly brilliant!
“What does me being a virgin have to do with anything? All girls should be treated with respect regardless of whether or not they’re virgins. Being a virgin doesn’t make me any more or less worthwhile than a non-virgin. Your seduction logic is flawed.”
Martin on the other hand was a pretty enigmatic character I must say. We didn't get his POV at all but surprisingly I thought it fit quite well with the read. It does add an element of mystery with his character and serves for a much needed angst in this read. But as the story unfolds, we do get glimpses of what lies underneath that layer of sexiness and just like Katy, I was falling hard for Martin too. He's always been used to getting what he wants but with Katy, it's a whole different ballgame and I enjoyed watching how their attraction brought them closer in ways than they'd imagined.
And as much as I hate to say it, this one ends on a pretty huge cliffhanger that would send readers like me into an anxiety attack while I patiently wait for the next one. Thankfully, it's only less than a month till the next instalment is out but I'm not gonna lie...it's killing me already not to have the next one NOW!! I'm so close to throwing a junk-punch when I hit the ending and then proceed to think of ways I can bribe Penny to send me the next one already (oh lordy yes, I am a very desperate lady right now!).
There are not enough words and possibly synonyms to the word 'brilliant' & 'amazing' that I can use to describe how much I enjoyed this read. The intelligence and humor that Penny brings out in her writing is a testament to what this lady is capable of when it comes to writing a smart romance. If anyone can make science sexy, it's Penny Reid.
EoC: Attraction had everything a NA book should strive to achieve; the right balance of quirk, humor, angst and steam but most of all, endearing and realistic characters that will make you feel. I would highly recommend this series to everyone and anyone who's looking for a entertaining, creative & refreshing NA read!
Now Lord please grant me the strength and patience to make it through the wait for the second one.
Elements of Chemistry: Attraction is the first part of a trilogy series called Hypothesis and each instalment will be released within a month of each other. This series is a NA contemporary romance read.
ARC kindly provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
April 6, 2015
★★★★ 4.5 Stars ★★★★
Now LIVE!
Amazon - http://amzn.to/1yPAAnO
Amazon UK - http://amzn.to/1C7ebUr
Nerd alert! I really enjoyed this one but then again I wouldn't expect anything less from Penny Reid. This is basically the story of the nerd girl who catches the eye of the sporty sex god who create wonderful chemistry with each other.
Kaitlyn 'Parker' is addicted to synonyms, she prefers snuggling up with a book and a cup of tea to partying and she has no idea how attractive she is under her baggy clothes and bushy eyebrows. Her mother is a senator and her grandfather was an astronaut, she has a lot to live up to but she is smart in her own right.
She has a bit of a crush on her lab partner Martin Sandeke, even if he is a bit of a jerkface bully, but he is unobtainable and it is one of her (many) life rules not to reach for the unobtainable. Like Katy, Martin also comes from a wealthy family, heir to Sandeke Telecom Systems and is the Stroker in the college rowing team.
After working together for one and half semesters without talking about anything other than chemistry, Martin shocks Katy and turns her whole world upside down, however she is adamant she wants nothing to do with him.
She sees that he needs a friend though so she is up for that, shame he has other ideas though.
Martin is starved for emotional intimacy and is so used to getting his own way that he finds Katy refreshing and completely different to the usual girls he hangs with and Katy sees his vulnerable side.
This book was FUNNY, Katy made me laugh so many times. I love Penny's heroines they are just the best. Smart, funny and adorable.
Part One ends on a HUGE cliffhanger, but luckily for the sake of my sanity, there is a sneak peak at Part Two which made me feel a whole lot better but still eager to find out what happens next.
Told solely from Kaitlyn's point of view, this is the first of a three parter.
ARC gratefully received from the author in exchange for an honest review
Now LIVE!
Amazon - http://amzn.to/1yPAAnO
Amazon UK - http://amzn.to/1C7ebUr
Nerd alert! I really enjoyed this one but then again I wouldn't expect anything less from Penny Reid. This is basically the story of the nerd girl who catches the eye of the sporty sex god who create wonderful chemistry with each other.
Kaitlyn 'Parker' is addicted to synonyms, she prefers snuggling up with a book and a cup of tea to partying and she has no idea how attractive she is under her baggy clothes and bushy eyebrows. Her mother is a senator and her grandfather was an astronaut, she has a lot to live up to but she is smart in her own right.
She has a bit of a crush on her lab partner Martin Sandeke, even if he is a bit of a jerkface bully, but he is unobtainable and it is one of her (many) life rules not to reach for the unobtainable. Like Katy, Martin also comes from a wealthy family, heir to Sandeke Telecom Systems and is the Stroker in the college rowing team.
After working together for one and half semesters without talking about anything other than chemistry, Martin shocks Katy and turns her whole world upside down, however she is adamant she wants nothing to do with him.
She sees that he needs a friend though so she is up for that, shame he has other ideas though.
Martin is starved for emotional intimacy and is so used to getting his own way that he finds Katy refreshing and completely different to the usual girls he hangs with and Katy sees his vulnerable side.
"Martin Sandeke wasn't used to freely voicing his thoughts and feelings...nor was he used to kindness."
This book was FUNNY, Katy made me laugh so many times. I love Penny's heroines they are just the best. Smart, funny and adorable.
"Parker, what are you doing?"
"Making a funny face in effort to make you stop staring at me like I murdered your beloved goldfish. What are you doing?"
Part One ends on a HUGE cliffhanger, but luckily for the sake of my sanity, there is a sneak peak at Part Two which made me feel a whole lot better but still eager to find out what happens next.
Told solely from Kaitlyn's point of view, this is the first of a three parter.
ARC gratefully received from the author in exchange for an honest review
March 19, 2015
I loved it! Plain and simple and as usual Penny graces each page with her wit, her loveliness, her realism and the story flowed so naturally. It had the right amount of angst minus the pointless drama.
When I found out Penny Reid was writing a new book and trying something a little different than what she normally writes, I was super excited. I don’t read many NA books and loving her writing style I hoped this was going to be a good read. I wasn’t disappointed.
I’ll be honest though. When Penny decided to split this book into three novels and I knew I’d be faced with a couple of cliffhangers I was a bit worried. I am a complete wuss when it comes to cliffhangers. They give me such anxiety. No joke. But I’m okay. I survived it. It hurt like crazy and yeah I was a bit angry at Penny :) but I’ve calmed down and I'll keep the faith. She hasn't steered me wrong yet.
This is the beginning of Kaitlyn Parker and Martin Sandeke’s story. On one hand you have the beautiful, kind hearted geeky girl and on the other side you have an “unrepentant man-whore extraordinaire and kind of a jerkfacedbully.” And when Kaitlyn gives in to the sensations caused from “the figurative Bunsen burner in her pants," she ends up taking a leap of faith.
Martin ~ was that guy on campus that every girl wanted. He was handsome, rich and popular. He was also the Stroker on the University’s Row team and Katy’s Chemistry lab partner. It was apparent he had everything going for him. Or did he? There was something behind those beautiful blue eyes of his that hinted to something different.
Kaitlyn ~ though she was a bit of a loner she was happy. She was smart, funny, a little nerdy but beautiful in her own right. She saw things for what they were, expressed herself freely and coped in ways that worked for her. She also lusted after Martin. But no one was supposed to know that.
Life wasn’t supposed to change for Katy but one day it does. When Katy over hears two students talking about doing something unthinkable to Martin she does the right thing by telling him about it, assuming that would be all there was too it. But Martin has other plans, plans that would rock Katy’s world just a bit.
The plan was she was to head off to a Caribbean island for spring break along with Martin and the crew team. This wasn’t going to be easy for her but she has her best friend Sam with her to keep things from going wrong. Okay, so that was the plan but what Katy didn’t count on was the shift in Martin’s ways. When Martin was with Katy he was different. She saw a certain vulnerability that no one else saw. And his kindness melted her heart.
Martin gravitated towards Katy for who she was. She didn’t want anything from him like the others did. What he represented didn’t mean the same to her as it did to everyone else. He just wanted to be around her. He needed to be around her.
There were moments shared and boundaries that were becoming blurred. Katy was getting those butterflies in her belly and Martin was getting that chance with the one girl he really wanted. And then it happens. Katy finds herself staring what she feared most in the eye.
On to book 2. Fingers and toes are crossed. ❤
**ARC Kindly provided by Penny Reid**
March 3, 2015
*****5+++ Better Than Chocolate Stars****
(Arc kindly provided by author <3)
Expected release date April 9, 2015.
Anyone who knows me, can tell you that I'm a chocolate addict, so- for me to say that something is better than chocolate is a BIG DEAL but this book felt that good. Elements of Chemistry: Attraction, Part 1 made me feel crazy with joy, left me satisfied and yet, wanting more; so much I read it twice!! twice, in one day, yup that good, I promise...
Kaitlyn and Martin have been lab partners for two semesters. They are complete opposites; Martin is the captain of the University's Row team, popular, rich and extremely handsome, every girl on campus wants to be with him and every guy wants to be him. Kaitlyn is the invisible girl but she likes it that way, her family is well known, her grandfather is a famous astronaut and her mother is a senator. Kaitlyn Parker is an excellent student, always focused, loves to read, play video games and The Lord of The Rings. In other words, she's the cute nerdy girl.
One day while waiting for Martin to start a chemistry report, she hears some evil people plotting something terrible against Martin and when Katy tells him what she's heard, he thanks her with a life altering kiss. Turns out Martin has been attracted to her for some time now and he is tired of waiting, he is a man that takes what he wants and he wants Kaitlyn. Our heroine is awesome from head to toe, her brain is telling her how wrong is for her to allow something to happen between her a Martin but her pants are throwing a party and he is the only one invited.
School is out for Spring Break and Martin invites Kaitlyn and other friends to his beach house in the Caribbean. His plan is to spend a whole week together with her and figure out what is going on between them. Both characters are inexperienced when it comes to relationships, both on different levels but one, has what the other needs. The chemistry is entirely too strong to ignore so they decide to give it a try but it won't be easy, as both their personalities as well as other people get on the way of this love equation to even begin.
I was completely surrounded by this story, I started reading and didn't even realized it was over until I came upon that shocking cliffhanger. I was equally fascinated with both Martin and Kaitlyn; what a great pair!
Martin was not only handsome but very enigmatic and his Alpha male style had me going crazy. Now, sweet Katy was a total badass, she's not your typical size two, blond hair heroine but she wasn't insecure at all. She was extremely funny and smart, like most of Penny Reid's female characters and maybe that's why I love her books so much, because they make me feel empowered and like is okay to be who you are and not what people expect you to be. When I read the beginning of this story on an anthology, I knew I wanted to know more about this characters but I honestly tell you that I never imagine, that not only I would love it so much but that I would connect with the story in such a high level, it really felt majestic!!!
My Elements of Chemistry: Attraction music playlist: (you can find it on my Spotify account)
*Never Been In Love Before by Eliphant
*Howlin' For You by The Black Keys
*Home by Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros
*Underneath it All by No Doubt
*Somebody To You by The Vamps
*Sugar by Maroon 5
(Arc kindly provided by author <3)
Expected release date April 9, 2015.
Anyone who knows me, can tell you that I'm a chocolate addict, so- for me to say that something is better than chocolate is a BIG DEAL but this book felt that good. Elements of Chemistry: Attraction, Part 1 made me feel crazy with joy, left me satisfied and yet, wanting more; so much I read it twice!! twice, in one day, yup that good, I promise...
Kaitlyn and Martin have been lab partners for two semesters. They are complete opposites; Martin is the captain of the University's Row team, popular, rich and extremely handsome, every girl on campus wants to be with him and every guy wants to be him. Kaitlyn is the invisible girl but she likes it that way, her family is well known, her grandfather is a famous astronaut and her mother is a senator. Kaitlyn Parker is an excellent student, always focused, loves to read, play video games and The Lord of The Rings. In other words, she's the cute nerdy girl.
One day while waiting for Martin to start a chemistry report, she hears some evil people plotting something terrible against Martin and when Katy tells him what she's heard, he thanks her with a life altering kiss. Turns out Martin has been attracted to her for some time now and he is tired of waiting, he is a man that takes what he wants and he wants Kaitlyn. Our heroine is awesome from head to toe, her brain is telling her how wrong is for her to allow something to happen between her a Martin but her pants are throwing a party and he is the only one invited.
School is out for Spring Break and Martin invites Kaitlyn and other friends to his beach house in the Caribbean. His plan is to spend a whole week together with her and figure out what is going on between them. Both characters are inexperienced when it comes to relationships, both on different levels but one, has what the other needs. The chemistry is entirely too strong to ignore so they decide to give it a try but it won't be easy, as both their personalities as well as other people get on the way of this love equation to even begin.
I was completely surrounded by this story, I started reading and didn't even realized it was over until I came upon that shocking cliffhanger. I was equally fascinated with both Martin and Kaitlyn; what a great pair!
Martin was not only handsome but very enigmatic and his Alpha male style had me going crazy. Now, sweet Katy was a total badass, she's not your typical size two, blond hair heroine but she wasn't insecure at all. She was extremely funny and smart, like most of Penny Reid's female characters and maybe that's why I love her books so much, because they make me feel empowered and like is okay to be who you are and not what people expect you to be. When I read the beginning of this story on an anthology, I knew I wanted to know more about this characters but I honestly tell you that I never imagine, that not only I would love it so much but that I would connect with the story in such a high level, it really felt majestic!!!
My Elements of Chemistry: Attraction music playlist: (you can find it on my Spotify account)
*Never Been In Love Before by Eliphant
*Howlin' For You by The Black Keys
*Home by Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros
*Underneath it All by No Doubt
*Somebody To You by The Vamps
*Sugar by Maroon 5
March 25, 2019
*****FIVE STARS*****
Why did I wait so long to get to this series??!!!
Here are my overall ratings:
Hero: 5
Heroine: 5
Plot: 5
Angst: 4.5
Steam: 4.5
Chemistry Between Hero & Heroine: 5
Why did I wait so long to get to this series??!!!
Here are my overall ratings:
Hero: 5
Heroine: 5
Plot: 5
Angst: 4.5
Steam: 4.5
Chemistry Between Hero & Heroine: 5
June 27, 2020
5 Chemically Addictive Writing Stars
* * * * * Spoiler Free-And FREE
I am going to try...try being the operative word here...to explain my impressions of this immensely engaging story. This is the first entry of a multi-part series by Penny Reid. The first thing which struck me so deeply was how intimate it felt. All of it was from our main gal's vision and heart.
Kaitlyn Parker is this 19-year-old woman/child. She is brilliant in a self-effacing way. She is beautiful... no, really...undeniably beautiful without understanding she is. She literally grew into her body in stages... with first the necessary flesh which until she had the amazing growth spurts ... would have her feel awkward and chunky. Once her body found its way, Kaitlyn was already under the assumption it was nothing to consider... so she didn't. She also had a high school sort of boyfriend who was actually in the closet... not for 7 minutes of heaven ... but to hide he was gay.
Not great for any girl's sexual awareness.
She also is a product of a very unusually high academic/scientific gene pool resulting in a father who is the medical head of a major university and a mother who is a Senator. Normal for Kaitlyn is agendas, conference calls, and calendar syncing with her parents...all facilitated by George, her mother's PA. The parents do adore and love her... and she loves them as well... but with this unusual upbringing matched with her active and astute mind... Kaitlyn is not your usual college woman.
She ignores all of the physical and is deeply immersed in the mental...a self-proclaimed nerd. Life is not passing her by, though... she takes everything in... in her own way... and when things get a little overwhelming, she uses the unique tools of coming up with multiple synonyms for the feelings she is having....or thinking of the clear concise words of guidance her mother has given her to settle her nerves.
She uses these techniques frequently when around her lab partner for the last two semesters. He is on this Earth to torment her and her girly parts...He is none other than Martin Sandeke, heir, to the Sandeke Telecom Systems.
Oh, to explain all that is this vision... Captain of the rowing team.... with all the physical attributes that go with it...shoulders, arms, chest, legs of Hercules...strong jaw, eyes the color of a blue flame with the intensity to look right through you... and brown hairs licked by the sun...The worst was he was smart...could be cutting in his way and has the knack of making the women he finished with cry...and he has been finished with masses. He is just blunt with them and his intelligence doesn't cause him to be mean just direct and to the point. He is a man who is used to people doing what he wants, women never saying no, men almost fawning to be around him.
To Kaitlyn, he is out of the question, on another level, and a lazy chemistry partner.
We learn all of this while Kaitlyn in stuck in a cabinet...yes, hiding in a cabinet in the chem lab...She was in the process of getting equipment out and heard people coming and her fight or flight urge sent her to where she normally goes when that happens...to closets, alcoves...any place she can disappear.
This time she is in the cabinet and hearing a shocking plan between a woman and man...a scheme to drug, tape and sexually blackmail Martin at a party tonight. The woman plans on seducing him, getting pregnant, and hitting the money lottery. The man has been drugging women and is doing this as a way to get with this woman...All of this is turning Kaitlyn's stomach. For no matter Martin Sandeke is a jerkface bully or manwhore with legions of women... what they are planning is just shocking and wrong...Marin walks in on the man...he talks with him for a minute and then the man leaves. As Kaitlyn is trying to figure out how to get out of the cabinet without Sandeke seeing her... he opens it and pulls her out.
This is where the entire essence of their story is laid out for us. She is a little awkward...but charming in her straightforward Kaitlyn way. The two of them banter...but not cheesy or familiar...it is unique to these two...she so unedited...him a little stunned yet going with it...For he has been interested in her since the beginning of their partnership in the lab....and she cannot see him as anything but unattainable. So when this new conversation starts and she is under his scrutiny, her body parts are screaming at her...she cannot think clearly and tell him about the dastardly plan and impossible things happen...such as Martin Sandeke is KISSING HER! All Brain function stops...all body parts tingle and takes over...and it is like "lift-off". Our gal can't breathe or think and exits before she can tell Martin about what is to happen at the party.
Kaitlyn is in her dorm and Sam, her girlfriend, roommate, and confidant is helping her into a little black dress, doing her hair and makeup. The only way to let Martin know about the scheme is to go to this stupid party and tell him. This is not the way Kaitlyn operates...slacks, converse, and t-shirts...nothing which isn't practical...is the usual attire. Sam has been wanting to play dress-up with Kaitlyn forever. She knows her so well, loves her, and wants to look out for her, too....because as intelligent as her girl is... she knows how inexperienced and a little naive she is.
The plan is to go to the frat party, tell the man the situation and get the hell out. Together Sam and Kaitlyn are allowed in as they are wearing the required skirts...They ask around for Sandeke and at first are blown off with a "get in line, hun" attitude. Sam explains to one of these guys, Eric, Kaitlyn is Sandeke's lab partner and just needs to talk about an assignment. Eyes pop, second looks happen, and then Eric says he will get the girls to Martin.
Kaitlyn is let into a pool room and Martin is there. At first, he does not recognize her...she looks nothing like his lab partner...but then he sees...and he comes close to her...very close and her girly bits start their Martin Sandeke jig...Kaitlyn very quickly starts to tell him of why she is there and lays out the whole blackmail, drug thing...and she is stunned by the face change on Martin. One minute he was so happy to see her... eyes soft and warm...the next, cold and calculating. He demands to know what the information will cost him...what does she want...and why should he believe her...
She is hurt...and tells him he is a jerkface; she was only trying to help him because it was the right thing to do. He still doesn't trust her words and they are at a standstill...which then causes Kaitlyn to start saying what was in her head without editing...which leads Sandeke to more KISSING and TOUCHING and the next thing she knows...she has promised to go on Spring Break with him to a secluded beach!
All of this is enhanced by this running internal and then external talk of Kaitlyn which brings me back to the intensely intimate feel of this read. It is hard to explain...There is a detail level that with any other author would just not work but because it is Reid and her deft use of words, it somehow does. All of it gives insight to the strength, perseverance, and determination of this woman...who is strong in how she was raised, who she is, and her moral center. She is not preachy or a prude...just someone who has to lead a very specific kind of life and is comfortable with how things have been. She knows she is inexperienced and is a little shy about it, yet being a scientist at heart, she has taken the initiative to read and understand all things sexual. She just hasn't done any of them.
Martin is a man who has been weened on being an heir. This means he can never let his guard down...he always is seeing what the angle is when others are interested in being with him. He is intelligent, quick, and athletic. He is a leader and the "alpha" in his group of rowers...To be the Captain of the team and have all of them defer to him as a Sophomore is highly unusual. At first one would think it was political and due to his name and wealth...but with closer inspection, the merit is earned and deserved.
Kaitlyn cuts through all of his crap and sees him for what he is...a man all alone and needing a friend...she can do friends... but the problem is he wants more, is willing to be slow with her and her body is encouraging her mind to play along.
We are not just introduced to Kaitlyn and Martin; there are a whole cast and crew ...I did do that...and they are important to this story. Words of incredible wisdom are shared; relationships are formed and an undercurrent of ugly is just under the surface which any reader knows will come into play at some point.
This is the first taste...and like any smart chef...a taste is just that...enough to whet the appetite... to tease the mind and mouth... to make us want to indulge in more. Penny Reid did just that. She has ended this sample of this series in a place where if we do not get the next course our brains will explode. We will perish.
Penny Reid has systematically come up with her own experiment and I for one am very happy to be her control subject...
Attraction (Elements of Chemistry, #1; Hypothesis, #1.1)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Heat (Elements of Chemistry, #2; Hypothesis, #1.2)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Capture (Elements of Chemistry, #3; Hypothesis, #1.3)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
~~~~~ Before Reading ~~~~~
There are times in your life when you know not to question.
To be grateful and just bask in the goodness around you. This is one of those times. I promise I will appreciate it all and report back to all of you as best I can.
A gifted copy was provided by author for an honest review.
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
* * * * * Spoiler Free-And FREE
I am going to try...try being the operative word here...to explain my impressions of this immensely engaging story. This is the first entry of a multi-part series by Penny Reid. The first thing which struck me so deeply was how intimate it felt. All of it was from our main gal's vision and heart.
Kaitlyn Parker is this 19-year-old woman/child. She is brilliant in a self-effacing way. She is beautiful... no, really...undeniably beautiful without understanding she is. She literally grew into her body in stages... with first the necessary flesh which until she had the amazing growth spurts ... would have her feel awkward and chunky. Once her body found its way, Kaitlyn was already under the assumption it was nothing to consider... so she didn't. She also had a high school sort of boyfriend who was actually in the closet... not for 7 minutes of heaven ... but to hide he was gay.
Not great for any girl's sexual awareness.
She also is a product of a very unusually high academic/scientific gene pool resulting in a father who is the medical head of a major university and a mother who is a Senator. Normal for Kaitlyn is agendas, conference calls, and calendar syncing with her parents...all facilitated by George, her mother's PA. The parents do adore and love her... and she loves them as well... but with this unusual upbringing matched with her active and astute mind... Kaitlyn is not your usual college woman.
She ignores all of the physical and is deeply immersed in the mental...a self-proclaimed nerd. Life is not passing her by, though... she takes everything in... in her own way... and when things get a little overwhelming, she uses the unique tools of coming up with multiple synonyms for the feelings she is having....or thinking of the clear concise words of guidance her mother has given her to settle her nerves.
She uses these techniques frequently when around her lab partner for the last two semesters. He is on this Earth to torment her and her girly parts...He is none other than Martin Sandeke, heir, to the Sandeke Telecom Systems.
Oh, to explain all that is this vision... Captain of the rowing team.... with all the physical attributes that go with it...shoulders, arms, chest, legs of Hercules...strong jaw, eyes the color of a blue flame with the intensity to look right through you... and brown hairs licked by the sun...The worst was he was smart...could be cutting in his way and has the knack of making the women he finished with cry...and he has been finished with masses. He is just blunt with them and his intelligence doesn't cause him to be mean just direct and to the point. He is a man who is used to people doing what he wants, women never saying no, men almost fawning to be around him.
To Kaitlyn, he is out of the question, on another level, and a lazy chemistry partner.
We learn all of this while Kaitlyn in stuck in a cabinet...yes, hiding in a cabinet in the chem lab...She was in the process of getting equipment out and heard people coming and her fight or flight urge sent her to where she normally goes when that happens...to closets, alcoves...any place she can disappear.
This time she is in the cabinet and hearing a shocking plan between a woman and man...a scheme to drug, tape and sexually blackmail Martin at a party tonight. The woman plans on seducing him, getting pregnant, and hitting the money lottery. The man has been drugging women and is doing this as a way to get with this woman...All of this is turning Kaitlyn's stomach. For no matter Martin Sandeke is a jerkface bully or manwhore with legions of women... what they are planning is just shocking and wrong...Marin walks in on the man...he talks with him for a minute and then the man leaves. As Kaitlyn is trying to figure out how to get out of the cabinet without Sandeke seeing her... he opens it and pulls her out.
This is where the entire essence of their story is laid out for us. She is a little awkward...but charming in her straightforward Kaitlyn way. The two of them banter...but not cheesy or familiar...it is unique to these two...she so unedited...him a little stunned yet going with it...For he has been interested in her since the beginning of their partnership in the lab....and she cannot see him as anything but unattainable. So when this new conversation starts and she is under his scrutiny, her body parts are screaming at her...she cannot think clearly and tell him about the dastardly plan and impossible things happen...such as Martin Sandeke is KISSING HER! All Brain function stops...all body parts tingle and takes over...and it is like "lift-off". Our gal can't breathe or think and exits before she can tell Martin about what is to happen at the party.
Kaitlyn is in her dorm and Sam, her girlfriend, roommate, and confidant is helping her into a little black dress, doing her hair and makeup. The only way to let Martin know about the scheme is to go to this stupid party and tell him. This is not the way Kaitlyn operates...slacks, converse, and t-shirts...nothing which isn't practical...is the usual attire. Sam has been wanting to play dress-up with Kaitlyn forever. She knows her so well, loves her, and wants to look out for her, too....because as intelligent as her girl is... she knows how inexperienced and a little naive she is.
The plan is to go to the frat party, tell the man the situation and get the hell out. Together Sam and Kaitlyn are allowed in as they are wearing the required skirts...They ask around for Sandeke and at first are blown off with a "get in line, hun" attitude. Sam explains to one of these guys, Eric, Kaitlyn is Sandeke's lab partner and just needs to talk about an assignment. Eyes pop, second looks happen, and then Eric says he will get the girls to Martin.
Kaitlyn is let into a pool room and Martin is there. At first, he does not recognize her...she looks nothing like his lab partner...but then he sees...and he comes close to her...very close and her girly bits start their Martin Sandeke jig...Kaitlyn very quickly starts to tell him of why she is there and lays out the whole blackmail, drug thing...and she is stunned by the face change on Martin. One minute he was so happy to see her... eyes soft and warm...the next, cold and calculating. He demands to know what the information will cost him...what does she want...and why should he believe her...
She is hurt...and tells him he is a jerkface; she was only trying to help him because it was the right thing to do. He still doesn't trust her words and they are at a standstill...which then causes Kaitlyn to start saying what was in her head without editing...which leads Sandeke to more KISSING and TOUCHING and the next thing she knows...she has promised to go on Spring Break with him to a secluded beach!
All of this is enhanced by this running internal and then external talk of Kaitlyn which brings me back to the intensely intimate feel of this read. It is hard to explain...There is a detail level that with any other author would just not work but because it is Reid and her deft use of words, it somehow does. All of it gives insight to the strength, perseverance, and determination of this woman...who is strong in how she was raised, who she is, and her moral center. She is not preachy or a prude...just someone who has to lead a very specific kind of life and is comfortable with how things have been. She knows she is inexperienced and is a little shy about it, yet being a scientist at heart, she has taken the initiative to read and understand all things sexual. She just hasn't done any of them.
Martin is a man who has been weened on being an heir. This means he can never let his guard down...he always is seeing what the angle is when others are interested in being with him. He is intelligent, quick, and athletic. He is a leader and the "alpha" in his group of rowers...To be the Captain of the team and have all of them defer to him as a Sophomore is highly unusual. At first one would think it was political and due to his name and wealth...but with closer inspection, the merit is earned and deserved.
Kaitlyn cuts through all of his crap and sees him for what he is...a man all alone and needing a friend...she can do friends... but the problem is he wants more, is willing to be slow with her and her body is encouraging her mind to play along.
We are not just introduced to Kaitlyn and Martin; there are a whole cast and crew ...I did do that...and they are important to this story. Words of incredible wisdom are shared; relationships are formed and an undercurrent of ugly is just under the surface which any reader knows will come into play at some point.
This is the first taste...and like any smart chef...a taste is just that...enough to whet the appetite... to tease the mind and mouth... to make us want to indulge in more. Penny Reid did just that. She has ended this sample of this series in a place where if we do not get the next course our brains will explode. We will perish.
Penny Reid has systematically come up with her own experiment and I for one am very happy to be her control subject...
Attraction (Elements of Chemistry, #1; Hypothesis, #1.1)https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Heat (Elements of Chemistry, #2; Hypothesis, #1.2)https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Capture (Elements of Chemistry, #3; Hypothesis, #1.3)https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
~~~~~ Before Reading ~~~~~
There are times in your life when you know not to question.
To be grateful and just bask in the goodness around you. This is one of those times. I promise I will appreciate it all and report back to all of you as best I can.
A gifted copy was provided by author for an honest review.
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
March 2, 2015
ARC provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
Title: Elements of Chemistry: Attraction
Series: Hypothesis #.25
Author: Penny Reid
Release date: April 9, 2015
Rating: 5 stars
Cliffhanger: Yes
HEA
In my last review, I made the following statement:
I should know by now, the moment you start imagining how a book is going to go, you're just asking for trouble. Expectations burn you every time.
Get ready, because I'm about to eat my words. Generally speaking, this is true. 99% of the time. But sometimes you have that one author. Maybe two. That author that produces books over and over again that not only live up to all your hopes and expectations but surpass them and wrap you up in pure bliss. The cold, hard facts are when a new Penny Reid book arrives, I can depend on reading something that will blow everything else I've read that week out of the water. Every time. Elements of Chemistry is no exception.
*Swoony*-->
Katy Parker is your classic PR heroine-predictably atypical in her personality traits. She's the perfect brainy oddball that's sure to enchant you right from the start. Being raised by two highly intelligent parents, she grown into a no nonsense, straightforward type of woman who appreciates intellect over the usual superficial standards of society. She's a word nerd. She recites synonyms when she's upset or nervous. (I loved that! Loved! It ramped up her rating on the awesome scale.) She has a dry sense of humor and I couldn't stop smirking at her off the wall thoughts. But then, I expected nothing less with Penny's witty brand of humor.
He was so handsome I felt like filing a civil lawsuit against his parents, claiming punitive damages, pain and suffering to my psyche.
However, Katy has one secret, guilty vice-and that weakness is her chemistry partner, Martin Sandeke. The guy she likes to call "jerk faced bully". She's knows it's wrong to lust after the kind of person that has a very short leash on his temper and a stinging wit that no one is safe from. So she keeps her unrealistic, unobtainable craving locked up tight.
Penny is a maestro at building that pull and draw to an enormous crescendo. That constant tease that builds your anticipation to towering heights. Most of the time I didn't know whether I wanted to laugh or swoon at any given moment between Martin and Katy.
Katy is under the impression that he doesn't notice her as anything other than his lab partner during the last two semesters. Little does she know, he has his own attraction simmering on the back burner. Katy's seeming indifference to his wealth and family, her unconscious beauty, and her straightforward honesty are causing a little obsession of his own. Martin is a pretty uncaring guy at best, and scornful and cutting at worst. But when he's around Katy, you can see how he gravitates toward her and the yearning he harbors for this unassuming girl.
After convincing him to go away with him and his friends for a week on a private island (and then convincing her again) Martin makes it his mission to get Katy to give him a chance which is not a small feat due to the bad impression he's given her these past months. Even though she has these feelings for him, she's too smart to not be cautious about his intentions and the possible consequences of putting her trust in him. And his possessiveness is noticeably freaking her out.
Even if I were Martin's girl-which I wasn't-there was nothing amiss with me sitting next to Martin's friend. I felt abruptly I'd just been peed on. I didn't want to be peed on.
One of the things I love about Penny's heroines is that she creates women who are strong and intelligent. No exceptions. You're not going to get a heroine who is supermodel gorgeous with 2 brain cells bouncing around in her head. She writes characters that are unconventionally pretty with a strong emphasis on humor and intellect. I value that SO much.
Based on the few sample chapters I read of this in Bunsen Burner Bingo, I knew I would love Katy, Martin I wasn't so sure. But after reading part one of this series, I not only grew fascinated with Martin, but I'm dying to know more about him. It's obvious why Ms. Reid ended up dividing this up into a story arc over three books. There is so much unexplored ground to cover with these two, I can't wait to delve into all the layers she's teased us with so far. Martin's hinted lack of love growing up, and hopefully getting some dual point of view in the following books in order to understand Martin a little bit better.
After that ending, I'm just hoping I don't have to wait too long for the next installment. That's my one and only complaint-you had to leave us hanging there didn't you, Penny?? I need more Katy and Martin-preferably yesterday.
FOLLOW SMOKIN HOT BOOK BLOG ON:
Title: Elements of Chemistry: Attraction
Series: Hypothesis #.25
Author: Penny Reid
Release date: April 9, 2015
Rating: 5 stars
Cliffhanger: Yes
HEA
In my last review, I made the following statement:
I should know by now, the moment you start imagining how a book is going to go, you're just asking for trouble. Expectations burn you every time.
Get ready, because I'm about to eat my words. Generally speaking, this is true. 99% of the time. But sometimes you have that one author. Maybe two. That author that produces books over and over again that not only live up to all your hopes and expectations but surpass them and wrap you up in pure bliss. The cold, hard facts are when a new Penny Reid book arrives, I can depend on reading something that will blow everything else I've read that week out of the water. Every time. Elements of Chemistry is no exception.
*Swoony*-->
Katy Parker is your classic PR heroine-predictably atypical in her personality traits. She's the perfect brainy oddball that's sure to enchant you right from the start. Being raised by two highly intelligent parents, she grown into a no nonsense, straightforward type of woman who appreciates intellect over the usual superficial standards of society. She's a word nerd. She recites synonyms when she's upset or nervous. (I loved that! Loved! It ramped up her rating on the awesome scale.) She has a dry sense of humor and I couldn't stop smirking at her off the wall thoughts. But then, I expected nothing less with Penny's witty brand of humor.
He was so handsome I felt like filing a civil lawsuit against his parents, claiming punitive damages, pain and suffering to my psyche.
However, Katy has one secret, guilty vice-and that weakness is her chemistry partner, Martin Sandeke. The guy she likes to call "jerk faced bully". She's knows it's wrong to lust after the kind of person that has a very short leash on his temper and a stinging wit that no one is safe from. So she keeps her unrealistic, unobtainable craving locked up tight.
Penny is a maestro at building that pull and draw to an enormous crescendo. That constant tease that builds your anticipation to towering heights. Most of the time I didn't know whether I wanted to laugh or swoon at any given moment between Martin and Katy.
Katy is under the impression that he doesn't notice her as anything other than his lab partner during the last two semesters. Little does she know, he has his own attraction simmering on the back burner. Katy's seeming indifference to his wealth and family, her unconscious beauty, and her straightforward honesty are causing a little obsession of his own. Martin is a pretty uncaring guy at best, and scornful and cutting at worst. But when he's around Katy, you can see how he gravitates toward her and the yearning he harbors for this unassuming girl.
After convincing him to go away with him and his friends for a week on a private island (and then convincing her again) Martin makes it his mission to get Katy to give him a chance which is not a small feat due to the bad impression he's given her these past months. Even though she has these feelings for him, she's too smart to not be cautious about his intentions and the possible consequences of putting her trust in him. And his possessiveness is noticeably freaking her out.
Even if I were Martin's girl-which I wasn't-there was nothing amiss with me sitting next to Martin's friend. I felt abruptly I'd just been peed on. I didn't want to be peed on.
One of the things I love about Penny's heroines is that she creates women who are strong and intelligent. No exceptions. You're not going to get a heroine who is supermodel gorgeous with 2 brain cells bouncing around in her head. She writes characters that are unconventionally pretty with a strong emphasis on humor and intellect. I value that SO much.
Based on the few sample chapters I read of this in Bunsen Burner Bingo, I knew I would love Katy, Martin I wasn't so sure. But after reading part one of this series, I not only grew fascinated with Martin, but I'm dying to know more about him. It's obvious why Ms. Reid ended up dividing this up into a story arc over three books. There is so much unexplored ground to cover with these two, I can't wait to delve into all the layers she's teased us with so far. Martin's hinted lack of love growing up, and hopefully getting some dual point of view in the following books in order to understand Martin a little bit better.
After that ending, I'm just hoping I don't have to wait too long for the next installment. That's my one and only complaint-you had to leave us hanging there didn't you, Penny?? I need more Katy and Martin-preferably yesterday.
FOLLOW SMOKIN HOT BOOK BLOG ON:
October 2, 2015
I was looking for something short and funny and I got exactly these two things from this book.
The characters especially Kaitlyn, the heroine really cracked me up for almost the entirety of the story. She has really smart and hilarious vocabulary that will make you unexpectedly bursting out in laughter.
“"He was so handsome I felt like filing a civil lawsuit against his parents, claiming punitive damages, pain and suffering to my psyche."
The story starts off very interestingly and engagingly as Kaitlyn (nerdy, boyish, carefree, introverted 19 year old) becomes witness to the plotting of Martin’s (aka Kaitlyn’s lab partner she is secretly crushing on, Hercules of his time) demise. Since Kaitlyn is a good person, she tries to warn Martin of his impending doom.
That beginning predicts a really unique NA but as the story moves forward, I learned that THIS IS the typical NA (which I’m trying to avoid only at the moment) but with a lot of LOL moments. Thank goodness for those LOL moments.
Kaitlyn’s innocent narrations become not so innocent anymore until all she could seem to talk about are her pants! Gah!!! I get this constant urge to cover my eyes.
I was hoping I wouldn’t have to read the sequel (only because I’m feeling lazy) but this ends with a cliffhanger which demands that I read it!
Ffff…fff…fffu…ffu…I can’t! Like Kaitlyn, I can’t really say the word. Sorry. LoL!
My younger friends, please stay away from this series (at least until you’re 18).
October 9, 2021
(I received an Arc in exchange for an honest review.)
Aaaand she did it again.
Remember how I swore my eternal love to Drew Runous back in August? Well, I lied.
Hold on, technically it wasn’t a lie. I was all set up to stay faithful to Drew, but that was before Penny Reid decided to whip up this little gem she was hiding under the most bigger rock on the planet.
So, Penny, this is on YOU.
Elements of Chemistry : Attraction is book 1/3 in Penny Reid’s new series, "Hypothesis".
So what is this all about?
This is a NA adult story, or so I’ve been "warned". This book being the New Adult genre, I must confess I was afraid it would verve toward YA, high-school drama and all that.
Well, I was WRONG.
One thing I should know by now, is to never expect from Penny Reid the expected. She has a very unique voice, one I am definitely addicted to :
She always delivers so much more than what her blurbs promise, you think you got her all figured out after reading one of her books? Ahah.
"Penny Reid? Oh that strange lady who like to dress up as Wonder Woman and writes about a bunch of knitters who like to dance half naked and find the love of their lives?"
Yes, HER.
Penny Reid has the ability to metamorphose, to hide, like a chameleon. She has the faculty to adapt and transform the most common storyline into the most incredible tale.I thought I was going for a nice little ride in the NA world, a little angst, a little steam and an HEA.
Wrong again.
Attraction whilst it had all the basics of a NA story, was so much more than that. I know, cliché. What I mean to say I guess, is that it was REALLY different from any New Adult book I have ever read.
The dialogues were cute and charming at times, Kaitlyn down-to-earth- mind providing all the fun.
Okay, let’s talk about the book now.
In Attraction, I was surprised to be captivated from page one, the heroine, Kaitlyn Parker, has the wittiest and awkward inner dialogue ever.
I had no choice but to picture this young woman as the feminine pendant to Sheldon Cooper from… (Do I need to educate you on who is Sheldon Cooper?No. Don’t answer that.)
Kaitlyn is a N.E.R.D. A word nerd, a book nerd, a science nerd, a fantasy nerd. You can’t find nerdiest than Kaitlyn.
She’s the shy and quiet girl, she’s the one you vaguely know of, but only because you know, her mom is a Senator, her Dad is the Dean of Medical school and her Grandfather was an astronaut. Yeah. That’s quite the heritage to shoulder on everyday.
She was HILARIOUS, oh she had a great sense of humor, but mostly she was funny because…awkwardness. Her odd and maybe eccentric habits just made her a little more lovable in my eyes.
Kaitlyn has a lab partner, Martin Sandeke.
Sigh.
What is it about this name, I’m asking you? Sandeke. I can picture myself as a Sandeke. Like today. (Goodbye, Drew Runous.)
Martin is the complete opposite of what Katy is. He is social, he is popular, he’s outspoken, demonstrative, heir of a Geek King and the leader of the University rowing team.
Yes Martin’s an athlete. To Katy, he is the epitome of "unobtainable". Well, in Katy’s mind, that is.
So what happens when Katy saves Martin from a rather disturbing plot formed against him?
Martin finally gets to make his play to Katy, asking her to go with him on a secluded island in company of his rowing team during spring-break.
There’s no surprise in this, Penny Reid is one of the few that can set up a slow build tension until it quickly becomes insufferable. Can you believe I was all hot and bothered and yet not one sex scene is present in this book?
Ahah, intrigued?
Let’s talk a little about Martin, yes, Martin Sandeke. (I could literally say his name all day)
One thing I love about Penny Reid is her ability to write great male characters, and Martin Sandeke was no exception.
He’s not a huge talker you see, he never went into a diatribe, full on monologues are not his style. Martin has the ability to make Kaitlyn unravel with only so little words… Or he would cage her, overwhelm her by his presence and just stare at her with such intensity… In a way that seemed so… possessive. Oh Martin was the Alpha Male alright. And I swear, I could feel everything! All of it.
One last thing, beware that Attraction ends on a cliffhanger, I know, I am myself wondering the meaning behind cliffhangers, I hate them, and to be honest, I’m glad I’ve got the second book secured next to this one, or I’d be set to do some damage…toward the nearest chocolate bar.
Wonder Woman, all scienced up, over.
(I had a few prime choices gifs of a certain rowing team, but I couldn't take the chance to post them here... Maybe, maybe you could see a few nakid bums... so... head over the blog to see full review... ;) )
More reviews and book talk at :
Aaaand she did it again.
Remember how I swore my eternal love to Drew Runous back in August? Well, I lied.
Hold on, technically it wasn’t a lie. I was all set up to stay faithful to Drew, but that was before Penny Reid decided to whip up this little gem she was hiding under the most bigger rock on the planet.
So, Penny, this is on YOU.
Elements of Chemistry : Attraction is book 1/3 in Penny Reid’s new series, "Hypothesis".
So what is this all about?
This is a NA adult story, or so I’ve been "warned". This book being the New Adult genre, I must confess I was afraid it would verve toward YA, high-school drama and all that.
Well, I was WRONG.
One thing I should know by now, is to never expect from Penny Reid the expected. She has a very unique voice, one I am definitely addicted to :
“But his laugh was a radioactive seduction and a half life of infinity. I wanted him to stop laughing never. It made his eyes crinkle and his mouth curve in a sinful smile.”
She always delivers so much more than what her blurbs promise, you think you got her all figured out after reading one of her books? Ahah.
"Penny Reid? Oh that strange lady who like to dress up as Wonder Woman and writes about a bunch of knitters who like to dance half naked and find the love of their lives?"
Yes, HER.
Penny Reid has the ability to metamorphose, to hide, like a chameleon. She has the faculty to adapt and transform the most common storyline into the most incredible tale.I thought I was going for a nice little ride in the NA world, a little angst, a little steam and an HEA.
Wrong again.
Attraction whilst it had all the basics of a NA story, was so much more than that. I know, cliché. What I mean to say I guess, is that it was REALLY different from any New Adult book I have ever read.
The dialogues were cute and charming at times, Kaitlyn down-to-earth- mind providing all the fun.
“I don't like dates. They're too sugary and stick to my teeth.”
“We won't have dates on our dates. We'll have tacos.”
Okay, let’s talk about the book now.
In Attraction, I was surprised to be captivated from page one, the heroine, Kaitlyn Parker, has the wittiest and awkward inner dialogue ever.
I had no choice but to picture this young woman as the feminine pendant to Sheldon Cooper from… (Do I need to educate you on who is Sheldon Cooper?No. Don’t answer that.)
Kaitlyn is a N.E.R.D. A word nerd, a book nerd, a science nerd, a fantasy nerd. You can’t find nerdiest than Kaitlyn.
“Foolish, absurd, brainless, crazy, preposterous, ridiculous, silly, stupid...”
She’s the shy and quiet girl, she’s the one you vaguely know of, but only because you know, her mom is a Senator, her Dad is the Dean of Medical school and her Grandfather was an astronaut. Yeah. That’s quite the heritage to shoulder on everyday.
She was HILARIOUS, oh she had a great sense of humor, but mostly she was funny because…awkwardness. Her odd and maybe eccentric habits just made her a little more lovable in my eyes.
“He' so awful. He's... he's like ammonium dichromate with mercury thiocyanate. He's the college boy equivalent of the bowels of hell.”
Kaitlyn has a lab partner, Martin Sandeke.
Sigh.
What is it about this name, I’m asking you? Sandeke. I can picture myself as a Sandeke. Like today. (Goodbye, Drew Runous.)
Martin is the complete opposite of what Katy is. He is social, he is popular, he’s outspoken, demonstrative, heir of a Geek King and the leader of the University rowing team.
Yes Martin’s an athlete. To Katy, he is the epitome of "unobtainable". Well, in Katy’s mind, that is.
“Mesmerizing, hypnotic, irresistible, alluring, seductive... Hmm...”
So what happens when Katy saves Martin from a rather disturbing plot formed against him?
Martin finally gets to make his play to Katy, asking her to go with him on a secluded island in company of his rowing team during spring-break.
“Fuck me...”I won’t reveal much more than this, this part is fairly short, and I’d rather you make certain discoveries yourself. But you’ve got this all set up. The story and development is very fast paced, and you won’t know what happened until you see you’ve reached the end already! A real page turner.
My eyes darted back to Martin and I found him looking at my body with a mixture of pained hunger and appreciation. The profanity had slipped from his tongue like an odd caress.”
There’s no surprise in this, Penny Reid is one of the few that can set up a slow build tension until it quickly becomes insufferable. Can you believe I was all hot and bothered and yet not one sex scene is present in this book?
Ahah, intrigued?
Let’s talk a little about Martin, yes, Martin Sandeke. (I could literally say his name all day)
One thing I love about Penny Reid is her ability to write great male characters, and Martin Sandeke was no exception.
He’s not a huge talker you see, he never went into a diatribe, full on monologues are not his style. Martin has the ability to make Kaitlyn unravel with only so little words… Or he would cage her, overwhelm her by his presence and just stare at her with such intensity… In a way that seemed so… possessive. Oh Martin was the Alpha Male alright. And I swear, I could feel everything! All of it.
One last thing, beware that Attraction ends on a cliffhanger, I know, I am myself wondering the meaning behind cliffhangers, I hate them, and to be honest, I’m glad I’ve got the second book secured next to this one, or I’d be set to do some damage…toward the nearest chocolate bar.
“You think I'm only interested in you for one thing. You're wrong.” He whisperead against my ear, hot breath spilling against my neck making me shiver, his hand on my stomach inching lower.
“This, what you're doing now how you're touching me, does not give credibility to your words.” My breath hitched, my brain disengaging.
“You're wrong. And I'll prove it to you.”
“I'm right. I'm right. I'm so, so, so right.”
Wonder Woman, all scienced up, over.
(I had a few prime choices gifs of a certain rowing team, but I couldn't take the chance to post them here... Maybe, maybe you could see a few nakid bums... so... head over the blog to see full review... ;) )
More reviews and book talk at :
April 12, 2015
4.5 STARS
Once again Penny Reid proves with this novel how talented she is. As always, her storytelling is captivating and held my attention from the first chapter. If you’re in need of a smart romance, look no further, "Attraction", the first installment in "Elements of Chemistry" series is exactly that and more. I can guarantee like most of Penny’s novels, this one will put a big smile on your face.
The story starts off with Kaitlyn, our heroine who overhears two students plotting something against Martin, her long Chemistry lab partner, so she tells him everything about what she heard. Kaitlyn can’t deny Martin is very good looking. After all, she has a big crush on him. While every girl in campus wants to be with him, she doesn’t want to be involved in any way with this arrogant boy. Too bad, since Martin has other ideas that involves kissing, kissing and more kissing. But Martin wants more than that and he’s more than ready to prove Kaitlyn that he wants everything with her.
I’m not gonna reveal anything else about the plot because this is simply a book you need to experience for yourself. So...
One of the things I love about Penny Reid’s books is the way she portrays her characters. Her characters are always real. They have flaws and they have insecurities. They are retable and most of all they are so endearing. Kaitlyn, our heroine is just like that. I really liked how Penny portrayed her character and I absolutely loved her personality, even if I’m not really a fan of awkward heroines. Yes, Kaitlyn is awkward, but she’s cute like a button. She’s smart, funny, strong, a little nerdy and she loves to read. How to not love a heroine who enjoys reading? Another thing you have to know about Kaitlyn is that she’s a virgin. Now, I’m not very fond of modern day virgin heroines. Did I care about this aspect here? Nope, I didn’t! Why? Because this aspect it’s not the main aspect of the story and it doesn’t create unnecessary drama, which of course I really appreciated. Kailyn in some way is my kind of girl. Even if she has insecurities, she’s not afraid to speak her mind. You have to admire a heroine who has this quality. Overall, I found her character to be not only lovable, but very refreshing as well.
Martin is an intriguing character, but I’m still not sure how to feel about him. We shall see! Anyway...He’s sexy ( he’s “the six-foot-three modern day physical manifestation of Hercules”), he’s smart, he’s rich and obviously every guy on campus wants to be him and like I mentioned above, every girl wants to be with him. If you didn’t guess already he’s known to be a manwhore extraordinaire and also a douchebag. He’s also the captain of their university’s rowing team. Yeah, he has it all, but maybe just maybe he’s not content with what he has and with who he is. Yes, Martin is more than the most famous, good looking guy on campus. My lips are sealed, so I’m not gonna tell you anything more about this aspect of the story.
What I really liked about Martin is that he knows what he wants – Kaitlyn. Also I loved his determination to show Kaitlyn they can be together, because despite the fact they are very different, they also have some similarities. I loved the way he is with our heroine and how he makes her feel special every single time. I just wanted to kiss him!:D It goes without saying I’m very eager to know more about him.
The teasing and the sweet banter between them are adorable to say the least. I enjoyed tremendously how their relationship progressed and the chemistry between them (because it’s all about chemistry) is very well done. You can really feel it! The steam is low, but who cares?! I didn’t. No when the story is smart, the writing is fantabulous and funny and the dialogue is witty and so, so entertaining.
The story is told only from Kaitlyn’s point of view and I didn’t mind at all, because for me this installment was somehow more about her than about Martin. However I wouldn’t mind if the next installment/s in the series would be written in dual POV. This first installment ends on a cliffhanger and it’s a huge cliffhanger, but hey, don’t panic. You don’t have to wait too long for the next installment in the series.
All in all, “Attraction”, book1 in “Elements of Chemistry series was a fantastic, entertaining read, written very well with two likeable characters, interesting plot and humorous dialogue.
Recommended read!
Once again Penny Reid proves with this novel how talented she is. As always, her storytelling is captivating and held my attention from the first chapter. If you’re in need of a smart romance, look no further, "Attraction", the first installment in "Elements of Chemistry" series is exactly that and more. I can guarantee like most of Penny’s novels, this one will put a big smile on your face.
The story starts off with Kaitlyn, our heroine who overhears two students plotting something against Martin, her long Chemistry lab partner, so she tells him everything about what she heard. Kaitlyn can’t deny Martin is very good looking. After all, she has a big crush on him. While every girl in campus wants to be with him, she doesn’t want to be involved in any way with this arrogant boy. Too bad, since Martin has other ideas that involves kissing, kissing and more kissing. But Martin wants more than that and he’s more than ready to prove Kaitlyn that he wants everything with her.
I’m not gonna reveal anything else about the plot because this is simply a book you need to experience for yourself. So...
One of the things I love about Penny Reid’s books is the way she portrays her characters. Her characters are always real. They have flaws and they have insecurities. They are retable and most of all they are so endearing. Kaitlyn, our heroine is just like that. I really liked how Penny portrayed her character and I absolutely loved her personality, even if I’m not really a fan of awkward heroines. Yes, Kaitlyn is awkward, but she’s cute like a button. She’s smart, funny, strong, a little nerdy and she loves to read. How to not love a heroine who enjoys reading? Another thing you have to know about Kaitlyn is that she’s a virgin. Now, I’m not very fond of modern day virgin heroines. Did I care about this aspect here? Nope, I didn’t! Why? Because this aspect it’s not the main aspect of the story and it doesn’t create unnecessary drama, which of course I really appreciated. Kailyn in some way is my kind of girl. Even if she has insecurities, she’s not afraid to speak her mind. You have to admire a heroine who has this quality. Overall, I found her character to be not only lovable, but very refreshing as well.
Martin is an intriguing character, but I’m still not sure how to feel about him. We shall see! Anyway...He’s sexy ( he’s “the six-foot-three modern day physical manifestation of Hercules”), he’s smart, he’s rich and obviously every guy on campus wants to be him and like I mentioned above, every girl wants to be with him. If you didn’t guess already he’s known to be a manwhore extraordinaire and also a douchebag. He’s also the captain of their university’s rowing team. Yeah, he has it all, but maybe just maybe he’s not content with what he has and with who he is. Yes, Martin is more than the most famous, good looking guy on campus. My lips are sealed, so I’m not gonna tell you anything more about this aspect of the story.
What I really liked about Martin is that he knows what he wants – Kaitlyn. Also I loved his determination to show Kaitlyn they can be together, because despite the fact they are very different, they also have some similarities. I loved the way he is with our heroine and how he makes her feel special every single time. I just wanted to kiss him!:D It goes without saying I’m very eager to know more about him.
The teasing and the sweet banter between them are adorable to say the least. I enjoyed tremendously how their relationship progressed and the chemistry between them (because it’s all about chemistry) is very well done. You can really feel it! The steam is low, but who cares?! I didn’t. No when the story is smart, the writing is fantabulous and funny and the dialogue is witty and so, so entertaining.
The story is told only from Kaitlyn’s point of view and I didn’t mind at all, because for me this installment was somehow more about her than about Martin. However I wouldn’t mind if the next installment/s in the series would be written in dual POV. This first installment ends on a cliffhanger and it’s a huge cliffhanger, but hey, don’t panic. You don’t have to wait too long for the next installment in the series.
All in all, “Attraction”, book1 in “Elements of Chemistry series was a fantastic, entertaining read, written very well with two likeable characters, interesting plot and humorous dialogue.
Recommended read!
April 11, 2015
5 STARS!!
I love Penny Reid. Yes, Penny, I love you.
Every single thing PR has written, I have read. And LOVED. Is it no surprise that I loved this book, too?! It may have left me feeling gutted and borderline depressed, but I loved it for all its worth. Kaitlyn (Kate) Parker is a beautiful nerd. She's smart, hilarious and often copes by hiding in closets and reciting synonyms to ward off anxiety. She's also sort of infatuated with the gloriously handsome and extraordinarily wealthy, Martin Sandeke.
Where Kate is a bit of a loner, preferring to spend time with her best friend Sam (Samantha), and argue the merits of Lord of The Rings, Martin is an extroverted, sought after, intelligent alpha of his proverbial pack. He's also on the famed rowing team at the university he and Kate attend. So basically 'unobtainable' in Kate's eyes.
Saving Martin from a potentially damning plot, Kate reluctantly agrees to spend the week with him on a private island in the Caribbean for spring break. What can go wrong? Luckily, Sam agrees to accompany Kate along with the other rowers on Martin's team to the secluded island.
So, Kate is hesitant to trust Martin and give into his seductions. I completely understood where she was coming from. I loved this girl and believed her reservations were well founded. But Martin was also quite different with her. His usual man-whorish ways didn't apply and he seemed sincere and willing to be the man worthy of Kate. The things he said and did, he was causing a meltdown. There was a waterfall scene on the island that was so hot and so seductive I was mesmerized. I was loving Martin, loving Kate, loving Martin with Kate! Ahh, but then the cliffhanger happened and I was GUTTED. DISEMBOWLED. EVISCERATED. PLUNDERED. RANSACKED. PILLAGED. My own anxiety has forced me to recite synonyms like my heroic Kate!
Please, Penny, PLEASE! Fix this, make it better!
Ah, damn. Anyways, I LOVED THIS. The humour, wit, intelligence. I sucked at chemistry but never have I loved it like I did here. Kate is awesome, pure awesomeness. She's a wonderful heroine and I can't emphasize how much I adored her. Martin...I loved him, mostly, and I won't say anymore.
To say I can't wait for book 2, Elements of Chemistry: Heat, would be a colossal understatement. I am DYING for IT. Awesome, fantastic book, loved it! Penny? PLEASE!
**Arc generously provided by the talented, Penny Reid**
I love Penny Reid. Yes, Penny, I love you.
Every single thing PR has written, I have read. And LOVED. Is it no surprise that I loved this book, too?! It may have left me feeling gutted and borderline depressed, but I loved it for all its worth. Kaitlyn (Kate) Parker is a beautiful nerd. She's smart, hilarious and often copes by hiding in closets and reciting synonyms to ward off anxiety. She's also sort of infatuated with the gloriously handsome and extraordinarily wealthy, Martin Sandeke.
Where Kate is a bit of a loner, preferring to spend time with her best friend Sam (Samantha), and argue the merits of Lord of The Rings, Martin is an extroverted, sought after, intelligent alpha of his proverbial pack. He's also on the famed rowing team at the university he and Kate attend. So basically 'unobtainable' in Kate's eyes.
Saving Martin from a potentially damning plot, Kate reluctantly agrees to spend the week with him on a private island in the Caribbean for spring break. What can go wrong? Luckily, Sam agrees to accompany Kate along with the other rowers on Martin's team to the secluded island.
So, Kate is hesitant to trust Martin and give into his seductions. I completely understood where she was coming from. I loved this girl and believed her reservations were well founded. But Martin was also quite different with her. His usual man-whorish ways didn't apply and he seemed sincere and willing to be the man worthy of Kate. The things he said and did, he was causing a meltdown. There was a waterfall scene on the island that was so hot and so seductive I was mesmerized. I was loving Martin, loving Kate, loving Martin with Kate! Ahh, but then the cliffhanger happened and I was GUTTED. DISEMBOWLED. EVISCERATED. PLUNDERED. RANSACKED. PILLAGED. My own anxiety has forced me to recite synonyms like my heroic Kate!
Please, Penny, PLEASE! Fix this, make it better!
Ah, damn. Anyways, I LOVED THIS. The humour, wit, intelligence. I sucked at chemistry but never have I loved it like I did here. Kate is awesome, pure awesomeness. She's a wonderful heroine and I can't emphasize how much I adored her. Martin...I loved him, mostly, and I won't say anymore.
To say I can't wait for book 2, Elements of Chemistry: Heat, would be a colossal understatement. I am DYING for IT. Awesome, fantastic book, loved it! Penny? PLEASE!
**Arc generously provided by the talented, Penny Reid**
June 10, 2016
4.5 synonym stars!
“Is a chameleon a coward because it can change its color? No. It’s evolved and awesome.”
Okay at first I was kicking myself for not having read this sooner, but after the cliffhanger that was the ending boy am I glad that I waited until this series was finished! I can jump right into the next book! And also, a small shout out to Dee, Jasmine and Sharon, all three of whom recommended me this series at one point. I really was listening! I mean 3 recs people, that's pretty promising. I will give each of you credit for every book (Dee first because she rec'd it first).
THIS WAS THE PERFECT BOOK TO SUIT MY MOOD! Like seriously. After DNFing my last book I needed something that could hold my attention and this book was it! I honestly was giggling and laughing out loud while reading this.
“You’ll have to read the book, and don’t interrupt me. It’s distracting enough looking at you. You’ve already derailed my brain train with your face several times.”
Attraction drops us right at the beginning of the story of Parker and Martin. The two are lab partners and one day when hiding in the closet of the chem lab, Parker overhears two people plotting against her very hot lab partner Martin. In an attempt to warn him, she finds out that he's been attracted to her the entire time they've worked together. A girl who likes to blend in Parker wears baggy clothes and does her best to fade in the background, but somehow rich guy playboy sees Parker for who she really is, and wants more.
Soon Martin has coerced her onto a Spring Break trip where Parker is swept up into a whirlwind of new emotions and experiences. But can she really let herself fall for the mysterious bad guy Martin?
“He was so handsome I felt like filing a civil lawsuit against his parents, claiming punitive damages, pain and suffering to my psyche.”
Penny Reid's author voice is one of the best ones out there. She manages to write seemingly real characters and adds a layer of humor to it all. I loved Parker's inner thoughts and her reactions to all of her new scenarios, it easily put a gigantic smile on my face.
I also liked the mysterious Martin and want to learn more about him and his motivations. He seems to genuinely like our heroine and goes after what he wants. For a shorter novel a lot of good stuff was crammed in and I cannot wait to read the next book! (When I should be writing my thesis *wah wah*)
“I will die happy here, today, in this spot,” she sighed. “In your puddle of lust.”
“Leave my puddle of lust alone. Get your own puddle.”
“Is a chameleon a coward because it can change its color? No. It’s evolved and awesome.”
Okay at first I was kicking myself for not having read this sooner, but after the cliffhanger that was the ending boy am I glad that I waited until this series was finished! I can jump right into the next book! And also, a small shout out to Dee, Jasmine and Sharon, all three of whom recommended me this series at one point. I really was listening! I mean 3 recs people, that's pretty promising. I will give each of you credit for every book (Dee first because she rec'd it first).
THIS WAS THE PERFECT BOOK TO SUIT MY MOOD! Like seriously. After DNFing my last book I needed something that could hold my attention and this book was it! I honestly was giggling and laughing out loud while reading this.
“You’ll have to read the book, and don’t interrupt me. It’s distracting enough looking at you. You’ve already derailed my brain train with your face several times.”
Attraction drops us right at the beginning of the story of Parker and Martin. The two are lab partners and one day when hiding in the closet of the chem lab, Parker overhears two people plotting against her very hot lab partner Martin. In an attempt to warn him, she finds out that he's been attracted to her the entire time they've worked together. A girl who likes to blend in Parker wears baggy clothes and does her best to fade in the background, but somehow rich guy playboy sees Parker for who she really is, and wants more.
Soon Martin has coerced her onto a Spring Break trip where Parker is swept up into a whirlwind of new emotions and experiences. But can she really let herself fall for the mysterious bad guy Martin?
“He was so handsome I felt like filing a civil lawsuit against his parents, claiming punitive damages, pain and suffering to my psyche.”
Penny Reid's author voice is one of the best ones out there. She manages to write seemingly real characters and adds a layer of humor to it all. I loved Parker's inner thoughts and her reactions to all of her new scenarios, it easily put a gigantic smile on my face.
I also liked the mysterious Martin and want to learn more about him and his motivations. He seems to genuinely like our heroine and goes after what he wants. For a shorter novel a lot of good stuff was crammed in and I cannot wait to read the next book! (When I should be writing my thesis *wah wah*)
“I will die happy here, today, in this spot,” she sighed. “In your puddle of lust.”
“Leave my puddle of lust alone. Get your own puddle.”
May 1, 2015
GIVEAWAY- ATTRACTION and HEAT E-book + $5 AMZ Giftcard giveaway! Our blog is celebrating this awesome series in our April BOTM celebration.
Link to sign up- http://readescapadereviews.blogspot.c...
Contest runs 4/29- 5/7
5 Awesomely Entertaining Stars!
Attraction (Elements of Chemistry #1) was a book I knew within a few pages in that I'd devour. The heroine is beyond endearing in all her quirky nerdy ways and she had me giggling (I don't typically giggle) throughout.
Kaitlyn Parker is a nineteen-year old mature-way-beyond-her-years college student. Her lab partner Martin , manwhore extraordinaire has caught her eye for quite some time. Not that she plans to do anything about it. She prefers to hide underneath baggy boyish clothes, wear zero makeup...no fluff no fuss. Oh, and closets...she likes to hide in closets...literally.
One day, while in the chemistry lab, she hears people approaching and does what's most natural for her...she hides in the cabinet. Only to overhear a plot between two students to roofie Martin, take pictures and attempt to get him to impregnate the girl for money. Ya see, Martin is a catch. He's rich, influential, on the rowing team, and everyone wants him. Kaitlyn must let him know their plot...but that'd require her to speak to him beyond all things chemistry. ***Insert awkward lip biting***
Martin Sandeke (aka Hercules to Kaitlyn) is enamored with his quirky lab partner, "Parker." He's never really acted upon it as she's always acted disinterested but this day in the lab, he can't resist her. When a literal back itch Kaitlyn can't scratch has Martin reaching up to assist, all bets are off... They kiss, but she's quick to realize WHO she's kissing...
"See, I'm ordinary. And you're you and I'm sure you're used to the deafening sound of underwear hitting the floor every time you enter a room. But I don't do that kind of thing, even for Hercules. Sure, I'll think about the possibility later when I'm safely alone in bed, but I never cross-pollinate fantasy and reality."
Not realizing what the hiccup just happened, Katy runs out of the lab and forgets to let him know of the plot to drug him that evening. Oh barnacles. Now she has to go to this hedonistic skirts only fraternity party to tell him! Gah! Unsteady, uncertain, nervous, anxious, worried, panic... Katy has a thing with synonyms. When she's nervous, she lists off all synonyms for the way she feels at the time.
Martin cannot believe the sight before him at the party. He doesn't even recognize Parker. She's in a dress...a very short dress. Makeup. Hair. All bets are off at his future resistance.
Anywho, that's the foundation of the story. A story that'll capture the reader from chapter one. Katy was such a cute character, one you can't NOT love. She's a virgin and her only real male experience is thru researching porn and pubmed articles. I could highlight her quirky quotes throughout. One my faves was her comparison of her lady parts (or nether region) with a Bunsen burner. Epic!
I'd read my first Penny Reid book with The Hooker and the Hermit and I knew I needed to get more of her awesome literary humor. She did not fail me here. Although Katy is a virgin, inexperienced in all things social, she didn't fail to deliver a heroine that's also tough and strong minded. The book isn't chock full of sex but I didn't miss it. Rest assured, there's not virgin turns sexual goddess here. I love how Martin chose to treat Katy like the gem that she is. He could have anyone anytime but he wanted the girl who didn't want him for his money and prestige.
“But you being a virgin and you being Kaitlyn Parker makes me want to ensure our first time touching each other isn’t some grope session against the closet of a dorm room.”
“So if I hadn’t been a virgin, then we would… what? We would have just, just…” I couldn’t say the word fuck. I just couldn’t. Instead I rushed to finish, “You would have impaled me with your penis while I face planted against the closet?”
Attraction is set to publish on April 9th. Looking forward to book two, Heat. Luckily they appear to be released a month or so apart. FYI, there is a cliffy and I'm gonna kill you Martin!!
Various other cute Katy quotes-
***My girl parts forcefully made their opinion known. Me want Martin flavored cookie! Me want cookie now!!
***"For the love of Bunsen, please put your pants back on!"
Advanced copy received by author in exchange for an HONEST review. Quotes taken from pre-publish version and may change in finished product.
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March 15, 2015
4.5 Bunsen burner stars!
My heart is still on the floor. I have yet to pick it up because Penny Reid just kicked it out of my ribcage with that cliffie. Thankfully, you won't have to wait long for the next installment because the next book in this highly entertaining series will be released within a month after this one. So have no fear.
Elements of Chemistry: Attraction follows the story of Kaitlyn Parker and Martin Sendeke. Katy overheard some nefarious plot against Martin, who happens to be her chemistry lab partner. Katy thinks Martin is physically beautiful but she also acknowledges that he's a jerk, so she makes it a point to stay away from him. This time though, she would be forced to interact with him because of what she's heard. But surprise, surprise, Martin may have been admiring her from afar too because suddenly, Katy found herself being pursued by the hot jock.
I loved Katy. She's smart (Penny's heroines always are) and quirky and to Martin's chagrin, innocent. Bravo to the author for actually writing a virgin who doesn't become a deepthroat master or sexpert overnight. Her reactions were real and I loved how she called out the hero for his somewhat misogynistic logic. I loved it.
And she gets even better.
Ahahahahahaha! I don't know why those lines made me happy but it did. I also loved that Katy questions Martin's possessiveness and hilariously objected to being figuratively peed on.
Martin, "be still my beating heart" Sendeke is a mystery. He's rich, he's a jock and is sometimes easy to hate because of the crowd he runs with and his obvious privilege. But just as Katy is slowly getting to know him, readers also get an insight into why he is the way he is. And I love how we discover the good parts of him along with Katy.
I am waiting with bated breath how their story unfolds in the next book. This one ends with a very distraught Katy after discovering that Martin may or may not have been playing her all along thus confirming her initial doubt about his intention. I for one am interested to know why. Why Martin, why?
ARC provided by Penny Reid in exchange for an honest review.
My heart is still on the floor. I have yet to pick it up because Penny Reid just kicked it out of my ribcage with that cliffie. Thankfully, you won't have to wait long for the next installment because the next book in this highly entertaining series will be released within a month after this one. So have no fear.
Elements of Chemistry: Attraction follows the story of Kaitlyn Parker and Martin Sendeke. Katy overheard some nefarious plot against Martin, who happens to be her chemistry lab partner. Katy thinks Martin is physically beautiful but she also acknowledges that he's a jerk, so she makes it a point to stay away from him. This time though, she would be forced to interact with him because of what she's heard. But surprise, surprise, Martin may have been admiring her from afar too because suddenly, Katy found herself being pursued by the hot jock.
One day I would persuade my grandchildren to gather ‘round while I put in my good dentures, the ones with no space between my two front teeth. I would tell them for the millionth time about how Hercules had once accidentally kissed me in the chemistry lab at my Ivy League University.
I loved Katy. She's smart (Penny's heroines always are) and quirky and to Martin's chagrin, innocent. Bravo to the author for actually writing a virgin who doesn't become a deepthroat master or sexpert overnight. Her reactions were real and I loved how she called out the hero for his somewhat misogynistic logic. I loved it.
“What does me being a virgin have to do with anything? All girls should be treated with respect regardless of whether or not they’re virgins. Being a virgin doesn’t make me any more or less worthwhile than a non-virgin. Your seduction logic is flawed.”
And she gets even better.
“But you being a virgin and you being Kaitlyn Parker makes me want to ensure our first time touching each other isn’t some grope session against the closet of a dorm room.”
“So if I hadn’t been a virgin, then we would… what? We would have just, just…” I couldn’t say the word fuck. I just couldn’t. Instead I rushed to finish, “You would have impaled me with your penis while I face planted against the closet?”
Ahahahahahaha! I don't know why those lines made me happy but it did. I also loved that Katy questions Martin's possessiveness and hilariously objected to being figuratively peed on.
A prickle of unease made the short hairs of my neck stand at attention. On one hand it was a lovely thing for him to say. On the other hand, he’d just figuratively urinated a circle around me in his blatant display of caveman possessiveness. Maybe I was overreacting, but I had no baseline for comparison. This was all very, very new territory for me.
Martin, "be still my beating heart" Sendeke is a mystery. He's rich, he's a jock and is sometimes easy to hate because of the crowd he runs with and his obvious privilege. But just as Katy is slowly getting to know him, readers also get an insight into why he is the way he is. And I love how we discover the good parts of him along with Katy.
"He needs a friend and all I can think about is doing very bad things to his body.”
“You’re starved for physical intimacy. He’s starved for emotional intimacy. Maybe you can help him and help yourself.”
“I don’t want to use him like that. I think his whole life people have been trying to use him.”
I am waiting with bated breath how their story unfolds in the next book. This one ends with a very distraught Katy after discovering that Martin may or may not have been playing her all along thus confirming her initial doubt about his intention. I for one am interested to know why. Why Martin, why?
ARC provided by Penny Reid in exchange for an honest review.
July 6, 2015
4 **cute as a button** STARS
Thanks god for chick flick goodness and besties with amazing reading advice. I was in a very deep book slump and my dear Jasmine and Supreet made me abandon an increasingly weird read to save my sanity and probably to shut up my constant whining. Well, it worked.
I’m inclined to say Ms. Penny Reid is turning into my second Kristen Ashley. She always gets me out of a dark spot and brightens my life with her delightfully quirky heroines and just all around wonderful books. Watch out KA she is coming for your crown. ;)
Attraction is the first part in the Elements of Chemistry series and yes, it has been reviewed lots of times by now, but I’m just going to throw in my two cents because I really feel like gushing a little.
Kaitlyn and Martin have been chemistry lab partners for a few semesters, but never really acknowledged each other before. That all changes the day Kaitlyn overhears a plot to harm Martin and subsequently there are some walls broken down, spring break in the Caribbean happens and there might be some kissing involved.
Kaitlyn Parker is a nineteen year old college student. She is a smart girl who comes from a very noticable family of politicians and scientists. She loves synonyms and hiding in closets.
I really enjoyed reading Attraction from her POV. Katy is a really sweet heroine, unintentionally funny, a bit blunt and very much attracted to Mr. Jerk-Face.
Martin Sandeke likewise a rather intelligent college student, but also a rower, jerk-face and billionaire heir. On the surface he has it all, the looks, the girls and the money. But there is more than meets the eye.
Of the two main characters I liked discovering him the most. Martin is very rough and uncontrolled for the most part, but the moment he interacts with Katy we get a little glimpse under the surface and there is a lot of hurt and distrust.
Both characters are slightly dysfunctional, but cute in their own way and don't get me started with the incredible chemistry that sets your book on fire. HAWT!
I love how Ms. Reid writes smart yet slightly socially awkward female characters with their patient and incredibly sexy significant others. It's light fun that makes me smile and works perfectly to escape the world for a few hours. Naturally the writing is whip smart, sexy, highly entertaining and adorkable to no end.
And last but not least, if I wasn’t sure if I wanted to read book 2 and 3 right away, the ending took all decision making out of my hands. There is a bit of a mean cliffy and I would suggest anyone who starts this series needs a little time and should be prepared to continue reading soon-ish.
Off to read Heat...
“Me want Martin flavored cookie! Me want cookie now!!”
Thanks god for chick flick goodness and besties with amazing reading advice. I was in a very deep book slump and my dear Jasmine and Supreet made me abandon an increasingly weird read to save my sanity and probably to shut up my constant whining. Well, it worked.
I’m inclined to say Ms. Penny Reid is turning into my second Kristen Ashley. She always gets me out of a dark spot and brightens my life with her delightfully quirky heroines and just all around wonderful books. Watch out KA she is coming for your crown. ;)
Attraction is the first part in the Elements of Chemistry series and yes, it has been reviewed lots of times by now, but I’m just going to throw in my two cents because I really feel like gushing a little.
Kaitlyn and Martin have been chemistry lab partners for a few semesters, but never really acknowledged each other before. That all changes the day Kaitlyn overhears a plot to harm Martin and subsequently there are some walls broken down, spring break in the Caribbean happens and there might be some kissing involved.
“Is a chameleon a coward because it can change its color? No. It’s evolved and awesome. I like to think of myself in a similar fashion. There is nothing wrong with having a strong sense of self-preservation.”
Kaitlyn Parker is a nineteen year old college student. She is a smart girl who comes from a very noticable family of politicians and scientists. She loves synonyms and hiding in closets.
I really enjoyed reading Attraction from her POV. Katy is a really sweet heroine, unintentionally funny, a bit blunt and very much attracted to Mr. Jerk-Face.
“I'm sure you're used to the deafening sound of underwear hitting the floor every time you enter the room.”
Martin Sandeke likewise a rather intelligent college student, but also a rower, jerk-face and billionaire heir. On the surface he has it all, the looks, the girls and the money. But there is more than meets the eye.
Of the two main characters I liked discovering him the most. Martin is very rough and uncontrolled for the most part, but the moment he interacts with Katy we get a little glimpse under the surface and there is a lot of hurt and distrust.
Both characters are slightly dysfunctional, but cute in their own way and don't get me started with the incredible chemistry that sets your book on fire. HAWT!
“I’ve decided that you and I are going to be best friends, just as long as you keep me in a steady supply of salmon cakes.”
“And cookies.”
“Yes. And cookies.”
I love how Ms. Reid writes smart yet slightly socially awkward female characters with their patient and incredibly sexy significant others. It's light fun that makes me smile and works perfectly to escape the world for a few hours. Naturally the writing is whip smart, sexy, highly entertaining and adorkable to no end.
And last but not least, if I wasn’t sure if I wanted to read book 2 and 3 right away, the ending took all decision making out of my hands. There is a bit of a mean cliffy and I would suggest anyone who starts this series needs a little time and should be prepared to continue reading soon-ish.
Off to read Heat...
April 14, 2015
I stumbled across Penny Reid a few months ago and since then have become a huge fan. First, this woman is so incredibly intelligent, I am in awe. Whether it’s reading her books or seeing her blog posts – I am impressed. Second, her book have this humor to them that is unique to Penny. In the last few months she has easily become one of my favorite writers.
Elements of Chemistry: Attraction is no exception. Kaitlyn Parker is smart and famous in her own right. She is the daughter of a US Senator and she comes from a long line of intelligent people. She is also intelligent and of course her family is wealthy, but she is also socially awkward. Martin Sandeke her lab partner and crush, just enhances all her awkwardness.
Her crush or fascination with Martin is completely innocent. She really just appreciates his intellect and looks, she doesn’t believe things could ever go any further. Everything changes when she overhears a conversation between two people plotting to set Martin up. Parker isn’t the type of girl to let something like that go, so she tells Martin of their plan.
This changes everything for them. Martin has never known someone who cared about him as a person and wasn’t worried about what he could do for them. He has never felt like someone was just looking out of him. Martin and Parker begin to develop relationship, and of course things are awkward.
As the story progresses Martin and Parker get to know each other. This happens over spring break at one of his family’s homes. She accompanies the rowing team along with her best friend. I love the direction the story takes from here and I love Parker and Martin. I love how they are different with each other. Adore Parker’s character and I love that Martin appreciates her being different.
This story ends with a cliffhanger and I am dying to know where things are heading in the next installment. I know there is more to the story than meets the eye. I know Penny has a twist up her sleeve that my little brain cannot even fathom right now. But most of all I am excited to see where things can go.
This world Penny created is addicting. I find myself thinking of these characters and wondering what direction she will take them. I can’t wait for more Martin and Parker. And I cannot wait to see how this twist plays out. As always I highly recommend Penny’s work. Her writing is one of a kind.
ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review.
Elements of Chemistry: Attraction is no exception. Kaitlyn Parker is smart and famous in her own right. She is the daughter of a US Senator and she comes from a long line of intelligent people. She is also intelligent and of course her family is wealthy, but she is also socially awkward. Martin Sandeke her lab partner and crush, just enhances all her awkwardness.
‘Proximity to Martin made me lose my sense. I’d been senseless. Without sense. Not any sense. No sense. Nonsense.’
Her crush or fascination with Martin is completely innocent. She really just appreciates his intellect and looks, she doesn’t believe things could ever go any further. Everything changes when she overhears a conversation between two people plotting to set Martin up. Parker isn’t the type of girl to let something like that go, so she tells Martin of their plan.
This changes everything for them. Martin has never known someone who cared about him as a person and wasn’t worried about what he could do for them. He has never felt like someone was just looking out of him. Martin and Parker begin to develop relationship, and of course things are awkward.
As the story progresses Martin and Parker get to know each other. This happens over spring break at one of his family’s homes. She accompanies the rowing team along with her best friend. I love the direction the story takes from here and I love Parker and Martin. I love how they are different with each other. Adore Parker’s character and I love that Martin appreciates her being different.
“Do you always talk like that?”
“Like what? Like awesome?”
“Yeah, like awesome.”
This story ends with a cliffhanger and I am dying to know where things are heading in the next installment. I know there is more to the story than meets the eye. I know Penny has a twist up her sleeve that my little brain cannot even fathom right now. But most of all I am excited to see where things can go.
This world Penny created is addicting. I find myself thinking of these characters and wondering what direction she will take them. I can’t wait for more Martin and Parker. And I cannot wait to see how this twist plays out. As always I highly recommend Penny’s work. Her writing is one of a kind.
ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review.
May 26, 2015
DNF @ 30%
"Sighs"
I didn't like this book at all! The author jumped right into the story and you never got to know or care about the characters. The story was just so cheesy and cliché. I couldn't read it anymore of it.
I guess I'm apart of the small percent who didn't like this book.. "Shrugs"
"Sighs"
I didn't like this book at all! The author jumped right into the story and you never got to know or care about the characters. The story was just so cheesy and cliché. I couldn't read it anymore of it.
I guess I'm apart of the small percent who didn't like this book.. "Shrugs"
April 8, 2015
4.5 Stars
So cute review to come!!
So cute review to come!!
Want to read
April 3, 2017
FREE on Amazon US today (6/7/2015)
OMG! [pinches self!] Series complete!
BLURB:
One week.
Private beach.
Invisible girl.
Jerk-faced bully.
What’s the worst that could happen?
Kaitlyn Parker has no problem being the invisible girl, which is why she finds herself hiding in various cabinets and closets all over her college campus. Despite her best efforts, she can’t escape the notice of Martin Sandeke—bad boy, jerkface bully, and the universe’s hottest, wealthiest, and most unobtainable bachelor—who also happens to be Kaitlyn’s chemistry lab partner.
Kaitlyn might be the only girl who isn’t interested in exploiting his stunning rower’s build, chiseled features, and family's billionaire fortune. Kaitlyn wants Martin for his brain, specifically to tabulate findings of trace elements in surface water.
When Kaitlyn saves Martin from a nefarious plot, Martin uses the opportunity to push Kaitlyn out of her comfort zone: spring break, one week, house parties, bathing suits, and suntan lotion. Can she overcome her aversion to being noticed? Will he be able grow beyond his self-centered nature? Or, despite their obvious chemistry, will Martin be the one to drive Kaitlyn into the science cabinet of obscurity for good?
The Elements of Chemistry series is a subset of the Hypothesis series. Additional books to be published in the Hypothesis series at a later date.
http://www.amazon.com/ATTRACTION-Elem...
FREEBIES are often good for MORE than one day, I have gathered all my FREEBIES on a special shelf: Kindle-freebies (currently over 430 books)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/list...
March 14, 2015
Title: Elements of Chemistry: Attraction
Series: Hypothesis #.25
Author: Penny Reid
Release date: 9th April, 2015
Rating: 5 "Bunsen burners & badboy" stars
Cliffhanger: Yes
HEA:
I can honestly say chemistry has never been so much fun, or sexy for that matter.
No, I haven't suffered from a blow to the head but I have been hit by this piece of Penny Reid goodness. Take a stella cast, combine with a great plot, smother with snort worthy humour and the pièce de résistance; a glacé cherry of sexual angst.
Although years too late, my secondary school teacher would be proud to know that for once I paid attention in chemistry.
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August 26, 2016
Ohh where to start! I had so many problems with this book maybe i shouldn't even write a full review. I'll try not to be too harsh, i feel like you all gonna start throwing rocks at me if i keep trashing your favorite books.
"One week.
Private beach.
Invisible girl.
Jerk-faced bully.
What’s the worst that could happen?"
This book is what could happen!
"Invisible girl" part got to me. What can i say, i'm a sucker for not-so-attractive, awkward, sad, lonely characters (odd, i know but SHHH). And she is all of those things, but only in the first chapter. And then comes the second chapter, we all know what's coming... guessed it yet? Yep, you got it. She took off her glasses (did she even have glasses? IDK) slapped some make up on, put on a skirt, and all the boys started loosing their heads over her hotness. They don't even recognize her! Even the hero (who's name i already forgot) just looks at her and has no clue who she is. Mind you, he has been her lab partner for two years! The fuck kind of make up is she wearing? Let me borrow some, girl! Didn't much care about the hero either, everything he said made me roll my eyes. Rest you can probably guess, whatever cliche you can think of just throw it in there, and there you have it.
Overall reaction;
"One week.
Private beach.
Invisible girl.
Jerk-faced bully.
What’s the worst that could happen?"
This book is what could happen!
"Invisible girl" part got to me. What can i say, i'm a sucker for not-so-attractive, awkward, sad, lonely characters (odd, i know but SHHH). And she is all of those things, but only in the first chapter. And then comes the second chapter, we all know what's coming... guessed it yet? Yep, you got it. She took off her glasses (did she even have glasses? IDK) slapped some make up on, put on a skirt, and all the boys started loosing their heads over her hotness. They don't even recognize her! Even the hero (who's name i already forgot) just looks at her and has no clue who she is. Mind you, he has been her lab partner for two years! The fuck kind of make up is she wearing? Let me borrow some, girl! Didn't much care about the hero either, everything he said made me roll my eyes. Rest you can probably guess, whatever cliche you can think of just throw it in there, and there you have it.
Overall reaction;
May 27, 2015
Is this book complete or am I missing a prologue?
I felt like I was missing part of the story... it wasn't bad but I wish the author had included how they first met, what they were feeling for each other etc BEFORE that cabinet encounter.
This could have been a great read but unfortunately it wasn't, I couldn't even finish it.
April 14, 2016
3.5 - 4 ★'s
I was really excited to read my first (sort of) Penny Reid book especially because a lot of my friends just love her books. While I enjoyed it, it just wasn't what I expected.
Primarily, I felt like the characters acted too young. They seemed more high school than college. Martin, young, rich, handsome, captain of the rowing team has a HUGE chip on his shoulder...obviously having to deal with his father. Parker, on the other hand, I loved...it basically boiled down to her brutal honesty and her awkwardness. Some of her lines were beyond hilarious.
I actually thought...there would be more chemistry involved, silly me. I thought the names of the chapters were quite clever and while the story starts off in the chemistry lab, that's about as far as things go.
These two are quite steamy. Again, another one of those stories where the female loses her ever lovin mind when the guy touches her but this leads to some interesting situations...like a trip to the Caribbean. I did love the waterfall scene...that was pretty romantic.
I think it would've helped to get Martin's POV for a better understanding of his intentions. I know sometimes it's nice to be kept in the dark a little but having it helps you understand the characters better.
We get to know some interesting characters. Sam, Parker's dormmate, is totally there for Parker, except when Eric, one of Martin's teammates, is around. And of course, the rest of the team seem pretty great except for the creeper, Ben.
There's definitely some drama and naturally at a party. I loved how Parker handled things in all her nerdom. But it ends on a bit of a cliffy, thank goodness the first chapter for the next installment is there.
Favorite quotes:
♥ "I don’t kiss unobtainable boys, it��s one of my life rules.”
♥ “What do you think about the Samwise Gamgee versus Frodo Baggins debate?”
♥ "You’ve already derailed my brain train with your face several times.”
♥ “We are dating. Remember, we’re having tacos and soon we’re going to have lots of dance lessons.”
♥ “Do you always jump up like that after sleeping?”
“Like what? A badass?”
♦ BR w/Melissa!
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