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An Adorable Problem Type Thomas is a hot geek, an ambitious twenty-three year old tech founder who's new to Seattle—and still reeling from an ugly breakup back in the Bay Area. Of course, he tells himself he's not reeling. Reeling isn't logical behavior. He's not avoiding the dating scene, he’s just got zero time for it. Hell, he doesn't even have time to deal with the stray kittens who've claimed his patio as their home. Why'd they have to do that anyway? The little squatters. Furry con artists. If someone doesn’t get them off his property soon, he’s going to be in danger of...feeling something. Or worse, adopting them all. A Sexy Problem Solver Type Tessa is a warm, cozy kind of person, a born nurturer. Which would be great, except that the guy she thought was her boyfriend just informed her she was an amazing "therapist"...with benefits. Augh. If she had a penny for every time a guy bruised her heart by taking advantage of her giving nature, Tessa wouldn't be a broke college student. "Done with men," she texts her friend and fellow cat rescue volunteer, before driving out to a fancy townhouse complex on the Eastside—tech bro land—where some guy just reported seeing stray kittens. Of course, Tessa knows it's not smart to let herself fall for a cool, confident young founder. And Thomas has sworn off romance, ever since the data proved it was a losing strategy for him. Still, the moment he sees this quirky, sweet, uniquely beautiful woman try to rescue a kitten while wearing actual (ridiculous) kitten heels, he's longing to crush his lips against hers. She's everything he never knew he needed. He's everything she never thought she'd find. They're both already in over their heads. It's just one night, right? So they tell themselves. Just like how people tell themselves they’ll never get more than one cat. A witty, semi-sweet STANDALONE New Adult romance.

281 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 15, 2016

120 people are currently reading
1422 people want to read

About the author

Phoebe Rose

1 book41 followers
Phoebe Rose writes New Adult contemporary romance, connecting readers with witty, geeky, and passionate couples — and the causes they fight for together.

Phoebe's loves include beach travel, reading in coffeeshops, and picking dinner from her garden. She lives in Seattle with her family and two supposedly feral cats.* Her YA fantasy, published under another name, has been translated into other languages and optioned for film.

Want to know when each book in the Alley Kitten series gets released, plus get free exclusive content like interviews, deleted scenes, and related stories? Join the VIP Reader List (you'll get one email per 6-8 weeks).

*Number of cats could go up at any time.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 60 reviews
Profile Image for Cora Tea Party Princess.
1,323 reviews863 followers
November 4, 2015
5 Words: Love, family, discovery, change, loneliness.

I knew pretty much straight away that I was going to like this book. I loved the writing style and although I had rolled my eyes a little when I first read the synopsis, it worked. It really really worked.

The characters are rather complex and passionate, and their relationship? It was on fire. Wowsers. I haven't read anything like that for a while. Excuse me while I go cool down...

Although everything happens quickly, it's no insta-love. Even when he buys her first class ticket to Hawaii less than 24 hours after meeting her, it strangely works. It's right.

The cats and kittens in this book made me gush a lot. Little cuties! I can't wait to read more Alley Kitten stories.

I loved how so many different types of relationships were explored. And there was a nice dose of poisonous-relationship, which is my ultimate catnip.
Profile Image for Coco.V.
50k reviews118 followers
Want to read
June 14, 2020
🎁 FREE on Amazon today (6/14/2020)! 🎁
Profile Image for Carol***BeautyandtheBeastlyBooks.
1,783 reviews169 followers
November 7, 2015
3.5 stars

***ARC received in exchange of an honest review***

Complete post here: https://beautyandthebeastlybooks.word...


Rescued is my first book by Phoebe Rose and I have to say I enjoyed her writing! It started really strong and I immediately knew I would roote for our heroine , Tessa’s, character.


It took me a little while to connect with the male lead character, Thomas, but when I did, and specially when I saw who he was for real, I liked him. I needed him to be more real and that happened, although some of the things that happen to him, some from his own choosing, don’t sound so real to me.
Even when the jury was still out for Thomas, I SWOONED with his moments with Melon, one my favorite characters in this book.


Mellon is the kitten Thomas find and when he calls a rescue shelter’s number, Tessa appears in his door, all dressed up. Melon had some kittens of her own, but despite being feral, she is a sweetheart.


I really liked how Phoebe uses the cat and her behavior as an example in the love story between Thomas and Tessa. Both of themn were “feral” at some point in their lives. Tessa is hard on people and she doesn’t truest easily, but when she meets Thomas she realises a lot of things about her life. Like the fact she judged her roomate without really paying attention to the issues she had herself.


I love that this isn’t only a love story…It’s about frienship and taking responsibility for your actions, it’s about not judging the book by its cover. Thomas himself didn’t look like the man he actually is. Just because he has a hot body, doesn’t mean he isn’t a substantial person.


But Tessa isn’t the only one quickly on judging people. Thomas thought his loaded past happened for some reasons, when in reality things didn’t happen that way or because of how he thought they did. It was a nice surprise actually.


I wish the plot line went a bit further in Rescued, I was prepared to see more and to also see a “bigger” conflict in the story. I liked how it went, but from how it began and how the writing led us, I was expecting it to take it a bit further, as I said.


I don’t think Thomas and Tessa rushed things or ran to each other too fast, but I did think some parts of the story weren’t given enough credit. I LOVED Melon though, as I already mentioned. I LOVED how Phoebe used this cat character as a metaphore for so many coming-of-age issues everyone have. Maybe you don’t have, or had or will have, the same issues as Tess and Thomas did, but I guess something in your coming of age will be reminded by this story for sure.


Oh! Another thing, because I am Brazilian I always LOVE when authors write names of stuff, people or cities right and also when they get our costumes. Way to go, Phoebe on writing the Brazilian Steakhouse scene! It totally made me crave some pastels!!!


Overal I liked the story, even though, some things were left a bit unsaid and I wished for a bit more. But Rescued will be for sure one of those charming books! A perfect book to read when you are bored of reading or just tired!


Now I’m very curious about the second book in the series (featuring a different couple)!!!

Profile Image for Poulami.
372 reviews38 followers
November 6, 2015
Originally posted on Daydreaming Books.

*I received an eARC of this book from Xpresso Book Tours in exchange for an honest review.*

Well... this was a furry read! :-) Honestly, I just loved this book, it was really, really good! I loved how the plot was executed and I fell in love with the characters, who knew how to learn from their mistakes. And last but not the least, I loved all the cats, specially Melon!

The story is about Tessa and Thomas (reminded me of Dylan O'Brien. Nowadays sort of everything reminds me of him. *shrugs* My crushy heart is getting all... Anyways!). Thomas is not an animal person yet after seeing a litter of kittens in his patio of his newly rented house, he calls animal shelter and Tessa comes to the rescue. Both of them instantly click and they can't deny their feelings as they spend more time together. But when it comes to the long run, will he be able to accept exactly who and how she is? And will she be able to overcome her insecurities and embrace risking her heart once more?

The plot was clichéd but in NA romances, the execution matters the most and I loved how it was handled in this book. And I loved the amount of furriness (Is that even a word?) this book included! There were lots and lots of adorable kittens, made me wish I had one, seriously! Tessa and Thomas were great characters but they had their fair share of faults. I simply loved Tessa, she grew up in isolation and pretty much cats were her only friends. She longed for an actual friend and with Thomas, she got that. Thomas was an ideal tech geek and the chemistry between them was perfect.

Both of them were scarred and they healed each other. Tessa and Thomas actually got to spend more time together because they wanted to tame a feral cat whom they named Melon, who was really cute by the way! Although things started on a whirlwind with them, it didn't bother me, it sort of seemed natural with these two. I liked the character development and that they both realised their mistakes and learned from them and did their best to make the situation better. I loved how it ended on a positive note although I would have loved to see how things proceeded with them in the future. I couldn't get enough of these two, I wanted more!

The writing was simple and beautiful. I felt into the comfortable rhythm of this book and breezed through the book quite easily. Although I was having a shitty day, this book kept me going and I'm grateful for that. I liked the pace, it was neither too fast nor too slow, the pace was even throughout the book.

Overall, Rescued was an amazing, light hearted and fun read. I simply loved this book. The plot was executed perfectly and the characters were pretty great. I enjoyed the romance between Thomas and Tessa and of course I can't forget Melon, she was adorbs! The writing was smooth and the pace was even throughout the book. I really can't wait to read book 2 in this series which is going to be about Norah, Tessa’s roommate who suffers from acrophobia. I can't wait to see how her story plays out.

Recommend it?

Definitely!
Profile Image for Geleen Faye.
160 reviews30 followers
June 7, 2016
3.75-CUTE-AS-A-KITTEN-STARS.

I was given a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

Now I had a taste of love and I knew the rest was shitty love by-products marked up for resale and marketed at schmucks like me who didn’t know real from fake.

Thomas hit the pot big at twenty-three. Together with his (former?) bestfriend, they made a successful fitness challenge app. Some events led him to accept a job at San Francisco, and he is now the CEO and founder of a new app called Fittist. On the other hand, he is owning the yuppie stereotype.

He found a stray kitten-cat (because it's not too big, not too small) in the porch of his yuppie model home, bought canned cat food for him, discovered that him is a her and there is a whole cloud of kittens too. He called for animal rescue and you'll know the rest, a cat lady with olive skin and hourglass body came knocking at his door.

Tessa is smashing the cat lady stereotypes. She's a volunteer at Alley Kitten Ally, a non profit animal rescue group. When a distress call was sent to them, she showed up in her red high heels and electric fuschia highlights. Who says you can't do fashion while trapping stray felines?

Tessa was just dumped by her boyfriend. What's worse is that he doesn't think they were dating to begin with! Thomas was betrayed by important people in his life, that is why he made the dash away from their town. They might have started on being a rebound for each other but you gotta love them together as the story goes on!

This is such a sweet read! Thomas melts my heart because he has an inner cat boy.

description

I love the writing style of Phoebe Rose. I'm gonna borrow Thomas' words and say you got a wicked way with words, girl! I love Thomas and Tessa's easy chemistry. Their story is just fun and light and furry!

The book didn't just focused on the love story but also with the family, friendship and of course, the cats! Tessa's family might be slightly overbearing and overprotective, some say they are crazy. But still, you gotta love them. Tessa understand in the end the feelings and worries of her parents.

Tessa disn't go along well with her roommate Norah. With the resting bitch face and continuously harping wih her indecent noises at night, Tessa thinks there are no hope for them to be friends. But when the time that she needed someone, Norah was there to comfort her. Turns out, she have her own issues and I'm not telling what! I am so, so excited to see what beautiful story will unfold for her in the next book!
Profile Image for Maureen.
1,322 reviews50 followers
June 9, 2016
When I first read the book description of ‘Rescued’, I just knew I needed to read this book. I mean romance and kittens? It sounded like a great read and I immediately signed up for the blog tour.

In ‘Rescued’ we meet Tessa. Tessa is still in college and loves taking care of cats. Studying psychology and working as a volunteer in a cat rescue center. Tessa is definitely a person who loves taking care of everyone, but most times she forgets to take care of herself. After Tessa had a very bad day, she is called to come rescue a cat with kittens. What Tessa didn’t expect was to meet Thomas.
Thomas is young and rich. Al though he doesn’t consider himself a cat person, he feels bad for the kittens he finds and calls in for help. That’s when he meets kind and beautiful Tessa. But Tessa doesn’t know how to deal with a person who has everything and loves to pay for things without any good reason.

‘Rescued’ was definitely a nice and easy to follow read. From the beginning on I was hooked to the pages. I loved the main characters and there were definitely a lot of funny parts.
Even though the ‘relationship’ between Tessa and Thomas started very fast, it didn’t feel unbelievable. And I loved reading about them.

If you’re in need of a nice romantic book this one is definitely for you. There were a view sexy scenes, not to heavy, but perfect for this book. I’m definitely of fan of Phoebe Rose now, and I hope to read more books by her.
Profile Image for Michele.
533 reviews48 followers
November 7, 2015
4.5 Stars

I really enjoyed this book! From start to finish I was invested in knowing Tessa and Thomas’s story. Phoebe does an amazing job of making this story so captivating, you don’t want to put it down.

Thomas and Tessa are from totally different worlds, but on the inside they are both the same. Though Thomas is a very successful business man at such a young age, and gives this perception that he’s confident and has everything under control. On the inside, he’s anything but. The part he doesn’t let anyone see, is that he questions who he really is and what he really wants. So after a move to a different state, he finds that he has a cat problem, and he’s shocked to see the seductress who comes to take care of his problem.

Tessa, she give this perception that she’s a strong woman and can handle her own. But on the inside she’s not sure who she really is or what she really wants. The one thing she truly cares about is helping feral cats. Here, she is in her element and the cares of school and her parents doubt go to the way side. So when she’s asked to stop by a house to help catch a family of feral cats, she’s surprised to be so attached to the homeowner with cat problem.

Though Thomas and Tessa have differences in the way their lives are lived, they both know what it feels like to be so unsure of yourself and have so many doubts. When they are together, they are simply amazing, but it’s when they are apart that’s when they let the doubts of whether or not what they have is real.

Will Tessa and Thomas finally let fate take its course or will they let their minds full of reasons why things shouldn’t be able to work ruin something so beautiful? When they finally realize that what they have together isn’t something they’ll ever find again, will it be too late?

I fell in love with Thomas and Tessa in this story! They seem more real than some of the characters you read about. Tessa is a struggling student, just trying to make it day to day and Thomas is one of those freak geniuses who was just lucky enough to find his way earlier than most. I’m excited to see what Phoebe has in store for us next in this series. I’m hoping we get to see more of Tessa and Thomas!

**ARC was provided in exchange for an honest review**
Profile Image for Sophie (Blogger).
156 reviews9 followers
November 4, 2015
Tessa Cantalupe is a fun loving college student who loves everything cat or kitten, I can't say I blame her I love cats as well which in turn made me love the story and the character as I felt I could relate to her in that aspect. Thomas York is the total opposite, he is running from his past by buying a condo and setting up his own business, he wants to forget about his ex-girlfriend to same one who left him from his best-friend.
The story starts with Tessa's so called boyfriend decides he wants to date someone else instead of her, she can't help be feel heartbroken, as she thought they had a connection but it seems like it was just one sided, her side. When she gets a call about a stray cat and her kittens, she ends up at Thomas's front door and for a first meeting, it could have gone better.
However, it isn't long before Tessa and Thomas become more than friends, but there is things in their way, situations and people especially Thomas ex-girlfriend who decides that past choices are not always the best choices. With the past in the way, Tessa and Thomas have no chance at being together, unless their connection is special and one that can't be broken, one that neither have had before and one that will set their future on a path to greatness.
Rescued is a perfect book about finding what is lost and then rescuing it, so that it can live and love and be who they are meant to be. It's amazing story shows that it is the smallest thing that can save you and change your life.
If I had to sum this book up in three words, they would be Beautiful, Amazing and Purrfect.
Profile Image for Jessica.
757 reviews
May 23, 2016
Rescued is a sweet and charming romance about two people truly finding love after they had essentially given up on it. It's a great book and I really enjoyed reading it.

Thomas and Tessa couldn't be more different. However, sexual chemistry doesn't care about what income bracket or what career two people choice - if it's there, it's there. And these two have it in spades - wooziers. It's intense and intoxicating.

Their relationship moves at hyper speed from insta-lust to being practically moved in with one another. It crazy at which the swiftness of the relationship goes so I was not completely surprised when they hit a pothole and bottom out.

However, I enjoyed how the author worked their issues out and resolved the underlying conflicts between Thomas and Tessa. I liked that both characters in this book kind of had quirky personalities. They had quickly endeared themselves to me and I was almost immediately felt invested in their story. It felt real and I was rooting for them (and Melon!!) the entire time I was reading.

Overall, I really liked Rescued. It was my first book from Phoebe Rose and it probably won't be my last because she writes engaging and entertaining characters - I definitely recommend that you take the time to meet Thomas and Tessa.
1,098 reviews19 followers
May 3, 2016
Adorable and fun read. Thomas is a young entreprenuer turned CEO who doesn't have time for a stray litter of kittens or a relationship. Tessa is a young college student who does animal rescues and is also off the dating scene recovering from a recently broken heart. The two meet when Tessa comes to capture the feral fluff cloud from the brambles off of Thomas's new back porch. He just moved in and she has lived in the area all her life. They couldn't be more different. Or are they? There is an instant connection between the two. I loved reading this journey between two people who don't realize how perfect they are together, regardless of their differences. It was cute watching Thomas loosen up and become a cat person and for Tessa to realize she never knew love before. Melon definitely steals the show with her sounds and outstanding personality.

ARC provided in exchange for honest review.
Profile Image for gwen_is_ reading.
894 reviews39 followers
February 19, 2016
Tessa is a pleaser, a rescuer of cats and a starving psych student. Thomas is CEO of his own company making fitbits. A feral family bring them together, trying to get Melon up to snuff. bring in an ex-girlfriends' wedding, crazy parents and a shut in roomie and you have.... a lot of crud to power through. I didn't always like these characters, but I pulled for them. they were real, approachable and messed up. Human. All in all it was a great story. I received a copy of this book from the author for a review.
Profile Image for J-9.
289 reviews
July 16, 2016
I just plowed through that book.
I love love loved it!!!
I couldn't put it down.
Cats and love what a great premise.
It was a fanfreakintastic read.
Profile Image for Danielle.
354 reviews248 followers
Read
November 1, 2015
Review coming after blog tour...

*ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Heather Lochridge.
36 reviews
February 15, 2016
Good Read

This was a very good book. I enjoyed reading it. I loved the characters and truly identified with Tessa. I was given a free copy of this book in exchange for a review.
1,213 reviews
June 15, 2020
I adored Tessa and Thomas as the quirky, cat-loving twosome that were so different but so perfect for each other. This wonderful, heartwarming story was full of all the emotional baggage that humans can't help but acquire and can spend a lifetime trying to resolve. It was a complete delight to read and I Loved It!!!!!
Profile Image for Megan.
57 reviews6 followers
March 15, 2017
i received this book through a goodreads giveaway. i liked the story and how it was a easy book to follow and read.
Profile Image for books are love.
3,153 reviews23 followers
June 1, 2016
Melon the kitten steals the show in this book. Truly her transformation from feral to sweet and the noise she makes to precious. After Melon it was Thomas. Why? Because for me he grew the most. He realized what he was doing and tried to stop it. He showed love and opened up to Tessa and he learned more about himself in this book. He moved to Seattle after selling his idea and is on top of the world in that respect. His best friend and ex girlfriend are together and this is what I believe precipitated the move and sale. A cat and her litter are in need of rescue and instead of pushing that aside he calls for help. that is how Tessa lands in his life. Tessa who is fascinating and amusing to him. He is intrigued by who Tessa is and how she is about kittens. Her passion takes Thomas by surprise and he wants to learn more. he comes off as stuffy and arrogant to her but she does see a soft side when she sees him with the kittens.

Over time they learn more about each other and fall into rhythm. Tessa says set guidelines on their relationship in fact she says it isn’t no mater what. Even as she begins to fall for him and he for her she is one that says no. Why? She is feeling insecure-her best friend left her saying she was just a friend with benefits for someone else, she is lost about what she wants to do with herself and doubting if she isn’t what her parents say she is and corrupted. Thomas tries to get her to see herself differently but when it comes to some things she won’t. She is stubborn and set in her ways.

Especially when it comes to Thomas and his ex. She believes that she isn’t what he would want because his ex is perfect. She is what he belongs with in her mind and goes so far as to make it hard for him when they are in his hometown for her wedding that he doesn’t something stupid. He lies so he can get closure. Why? He didn’t want Tessa thinking more than she would but by lying he gave her cause to shutdown. Over time we see Thomas see that being under someone’s control at work isn’t good for him. the job is no longer fun and it loses its appeal so when he does something stupid because his heart was hurting he isn’t upset but sees it as a chance to find himself and grow. His eyes are open to what his friends back home truly are by Tessa and he is okay if they don’t talk to him again. He feels okay if he fails because he knows he can get back up and enjoy life again. All this is because of his time with Tessa and Melon. Tessa helps him find who he is. She rescues him from a life of being a arrogant, egotistical man who only works and doesn’t stop to smell the roses. Thomas rescues Tessa as well. He helps her see that she isn’t what her family pegged her as. She is allowed to be wondering who she is and what she truly wants. She doesn’t have to be what others think only what she wants and that is okay. that he loves her for her and nothing else. This helps her see herself as who she is, helps her realize how she is treating people, how her family really is and helps her see why she is unhappy. He is there for Tessa even after she walked away and this shows her his love and strength. She sees he has changed and isn’t the same man as well when others tell of his moves in his life.

A book in which three rescues occur. Thomas is rescued from his work and life here he becomes a shell of a person with no one to love and lands in a superficial relationship like the one he had with his ex where it is about where you stand in status and not love. Melon is rescued and shown love and affection. Tessa is rescued from herself and her insecurities and self deprecation. She gains strength and confidence and sees that she is one who can be loved. Thomas rescues her with his love and support. Melon and Tessa rescue Thomas with the affection, love and patience they give him. A book of love and growth with a entertaining kitten, snarky comments, sexy moments and light fun times as well.
Profile Image for SB CS.
331 reviews7 followers
March 3, 2017
Not what I thought, but liked it
Profile Image for Jackie (Jackie's Book World) .
926 reviews60 followers
November 5, 2015
***Review can also be found at Jackie's Book World.*** :)

Rescued is about second chances at love and new beginnings...

From the very beginning I was intrigued by the synopsis and the cover just completely pulled me in. Though the plot sounds familiar, there were a couple things that were different and that somehow kept me reading until the very end. At the start of the book we get to meet Tessa Cantalupe, a college student whose “boyfriend,” tells her he has met someone else and wants to end their “friends with benefits,” deal that they have going on. What ends up surprising Tessa was that she really thought he was her actual boyfriend and not a friend with benefits. After their so-called “break-up,” she finds herself grieving and doesn't feel like doing anything. Yet she receives a called from an animal shelter that she volunteers at and they want her to rescue a couple of kittens that have entered a home. She accepts and goes off to the home only to meet a handsome stranger, Thomas York, in the process and the two basically try to capture the kittens. Things then move fast and the two of them end up getting to know each other that night. Needless to say their first encounter was cute and funny, but what I didn't like was how quickly things transpired after that. As they got to know each other, Tessa realizes that she has a lot to grow, yet Thomas makes her feel different and she is failing in love with him.

With that said, Thomas York, is the complete opposite of Tessa. He is a very successful entrepreneur who already passed the college stage, and he has the money to do whatever he wants. But when he is with Tessa, he feels the need to protect her and take care of her. Which ends up backfiring back at him when Tessa tells him to stop making her feel like a kid. Aside from how the met and their romantic encounters, there are a couple differences that they need to sort out, especially when he starts to fall in love with her.

Like I mentioned before, the book has it's ups and downs, but the characters come whole circle at the end. Needless to say, as I was reading the book I became less and less interested in the characters and their story. The events that happen after they meet happened to fast for me to become invested in their own personal stories. Their is not a lot of character development that could have helped the story. We do, however, get a duel point-of-view between the main characters, which it did helped understand the reasoning behind their decisions. But the story felt flat towards the end, the only interesting character that I found intriguing was Tessa's roommate, who we are getting a story of later on from the author. I will definitely be reading the book, though this book was okay for me, I still recommend it if you're looking for a fast romantic read. ( :

***ARC provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.***
Profile Image for Jeannie Zelos.
2,850 reviews57 followers
March 2, 2016
Rescued Phoebe Rose

Review from Jeannie Zelos book reviews

Genre:  Romance,

Soon as I started reading this it reminded me of one from another author I’d read recently, Amy Lee Burgess’ Top Dog. Both these books feature rescue charities, Kittens and cats for this one and dashounds for Amy’s book. they’ve the same light and easy to read style.

So, Thomas, wow – he’s living the dream, with his fitness app start up expanding so quickly its taking up all his time. He’s moved across the country to oversee it and left behind his friends – oh, and an ex....and there’s a story there. Its not like he imagined though, the huge, immaculate apartment doesn’t feel like home and work...well, in his new crew no-one seems to want or need him, they’re all older, all seem to be set in their ways and its as if Thomas is an interloper in his own company. the fun has gone, the enthusiasms that was there all through the start has just disappeared.
Then there’s poor Tessa. She’s got problems too – her studying and choices, her parents, her boyfriend ( ack!) and her flatmate. Nothing seems to really be going right for her but she throws all her love and enthusiasm into helping a small cat charity, and meets Thomas on a rescue. 

Its a sweet story from there, with Thomas and Tessa being attracted to each other but cautious, neither planned a new relationship so they never really define it, just go along with each day (and night) as it comes. Of course Melon, the kittens mum plays a huge part in that. they’re trying to socialise her ready for rehoming, and its a long slow process. Cats teeth and claws are sharp and poor Melon was a young feral and doesn’t know people can be good as well as scary. She was a star in her own right. I so admired Tessa’s patience, and willingness to risk injury to help the cats. When i was about ten a kitten appeared at the end of out large untidy garden. Mum always had three or four cats so of course I tried to pick it up and take in indoors, got a hole through my finger for my trouble, but by didn’t of hours sitting each evening beside a saucer of food Egg Henry eventually joined the clan :-) ( and no- can’t recall how he got his name other than the obvious) 

Its a sweet story, with some steamy sections and if you’re looking for a read with a HEA and one that’s relaxing and easy to follow tis book is for you. there’s no deep dark dramas and intensity but then not everyone wants that and even those like me who love it also like something simpler at times, a real feel good romance.  

Stars: Four, a gentle and moving story

ARC supplied by author. 
Profile Image for Miriam.
737 reviews39 followers
November 3, 2015

So... This was an interesting story.

The cats were cute. Tessa reminded me of myself. Thomas reminded me of friends who are driven. Thomas and Tessa's relationship was amusing to watch. The sex was dynamic between them. Their friendship, as it developed, was the highlight of it all.

Under all his drive and need to succeed, Thomas was considerate and compassionate. Where Tessa's past relationships bombed because she gave too much and received nothing in return, her relationship with Thomas was the opposite. He didn't take advantage of her kindness. He didn't play the "we can only be friends" card because someone "better" came along. He appreciated her nurturing heart and her giving spirit. That right there made him better than any other man she'd dated.

And while Tessa cares so willingly and unconditionally, she has no discipline whatsoever. This is where Thomas comes in because he's got that in spades. He just lacks heart, lol. Odd since he appreciated her heart, but it was what it was. Together they learned to be better than just a giver and an overachiever. Together, they learned to balance the two. And they learned how much they balanced each other.

I like that this wasn't just self-discovery for one character but both. They each had so much to learn about themselves. They each needed to see and deal with the weaknesses hiding behind their strengths. They did, finding friendship and love in the process too. The dual-POV really helps with this. I loved being able to see inside their heads as they came to terms with what they lack, what they need, and what they want from life and each other.

I can honestly say I don't think this will be for everyone who likes contemporary or the new adult genres. It isn't angsty by any stretch of the imagination, no drugs or recovering addicts, or anything like that. It's fairly light and heartwarming with moments of emotional upheaval that wasn't for the reader's benefit but for the characters' benefits. This was, for me, definitely an "along for the ride" kind of book where observing and not being immersed in it made it enjoyable for me. I hope you do give it a try. You might like it in the end. I know I did.

3.5*
(Received from Xpresso Book Tours for an honest review)
Profile Image for Heather.
45 reviews1 follower
May 8, 2016
I was really excited about this book just from reading the synopsis. A love story with cute little kittens involved? It's like everything I never knew I wanted.

Phoebe Rose tells a very sweet story, and I really enjoyed following these characters as they found each other and grew together. I absolutely loved Thomas, but I'm a sucker for tech nerds and guys with soft spots for animals in need. Tessa is strong and independent, and an unlikely match for Thomas. I love how they brought out the best in each other, helping the other grow and become better people, so that they could be a better couple.

My only trouble with this book is that the flow feels... off. Sometimes the timeline is really hard to follow. What might seem like several weeks, is actually only a couple of days. But then randomly a couple weeks will pass by. This bothered me. I also felt like some of the best parts were passed over. I want to read about their reunion. How did it go down? Did he give a big speech, or did they just let it all be forgiven and move on without ever talking it out? I felt a little robbed after investing in these characters and their love story.

It also may be the editor in me, but the amount of errors were distracting. From missing or incorrect words, to simple inconsistencies, there is a lot that needs to be edited further here. I know some authors release their books for early reviews (I received a copy in exchange for this review) so that they can improve it, so I hope Rose plans to work on it a bit more. The basic story here is really great, and her writing is descriptive and relatable. It just needs a bit more refinement.

Overall, Rose has written a good story here. It was a quick, easy and enjoyable read. I look forward to seeing how she improves with her future works in this series.
58 reviews1 follower
January 30, 2017
Not really a Comedy, but still good

3.5 Stars
1) Not a comedy. Typical NA romance- a couple meets, couple falls into each other, they face drama, and will they or won't they make it moments ensue. Nothing even led me to think comedy other than the continued merging of "bro" to various words.
2) Not typical was Tessa. Her insecurities felt like actual, believable issues that stem from a sheltered childhood, resulting in failed relationship understanding and diagnosis, and her eventual development of a backbone was then a natural progression instead of a forced plot point. I enjoy when female leads get upset justifiably and arguments/outbursts are about preserving personal integrity and self worth as opposed to random uncharacteristic sass guised as gumption.
3) Not digging the resolution. It felt like a major conversation between the leads was glossed over and the reader should just assume it happened and the necessary patches, repairs, or apologies were made in order for conclusions to be reached for the epilogue to happen. Left me feeling a bit disappointed, which is never a good final feeling.
4) Final point: it's nice to have a nice guy lead. While he's not a saint or even "got it all together and well adjusted," Thomas isn't a ridiculous caricature of an "alpha male" and recognizes his faults beyond "but this is me, deal with it." Refreshing in this genre.
Profile Image for Clever Girl.
231 reviews124 followers
November 3, 2015
Kitties and kittens? How could I not want to read Rescued.

Rescued is a sweet, moving story. I liked the heroine, Tessa. She's both vulnerable and self-assured, open and insulated. She's like many other college students, struggling to find her place in the world. She has a huge heart, gives so much of herself, but that huge heart of hers keeps getting trampled on. When she meets Thomas she can't help but fall even as she waits for the inevitable end.

Thomas has baggage too, he had been betrayed by people he loved, leaving him to pack up and make a fresh start in Seattle but didn't expect that fresh start to include meeting someone like Tessa. He has a big personality, he's confident and engaging and enthusiastic. He has a big heart too, he's kind and generous, and, like Tessa, I was a gonner for him the moment he fell for Melon.

I enjoyed Tessa and Thomas' evolution over the course of Rescued. They both learn to be honest with themselves about what they thought they wanted and what they really want and find the courage to tell the people in their lives that truth. I also liked them together, how they push each other, learn from each other, give each other a home.

Rescued is the first book in the Alley Kitten series and I'm excited to see Norah's story in the next installment.

Disclosure: ebook provided in exchange for an honest review
Profile Image for Felicia Eddy.
739 reviews
May 17, 2016
Rating 3.5

I have to say what drew me to this book was romance and being a cat lover, kittens. Overall I found the book to be a fun story that did have some confusing parts.

Thomas is the founder of a tech start up who is movie from to Seattle to become the CEO after his company was bought out. Tessa a cat rescue volunteer who is trying to finish her last year of college, maintain her boyfriend and make her parents happy all she is not doing well. Thomas found a family of cats and when Tessa comes over to help their chemistry is there right from the start, though they are not sure if they like each other. As the night progresses they do figure out they do like each other but is it for the right reasons.

There is a lot to like, the writing style is fluid and the banter between the main characters is good. There are parts of the book however that seem like they are rushed thru and not always clear especially the last quarter. I do like most of the secondary characters and I am glad to see Nora is getting her own book.
Profile Image for Devyn.
635 reviews
July 7, 2016
I received this book from Goodreads.

I'm not sure what to say about this book because it didn't give me much to think about in the first place. When I go to write something I have to put some effort into the search and all I get is less than complementary.
I just didn't feel the book. There was no immersion. No connection. And I knew the whole book would be like that when I read the part when that woman tried to trap feral cats in high heels.
High heels. Seriously? I work for a privately owned cat rescue and you better bet nobody is allowed to go out into the field unless you are wearing jeans and shoes you can run in. Cats are fast and jeans are one of the few fabrics cat claws don't penetrate like tissue paper.
People who wear tight little skirts, lots of makeup, and high heels don't last long in animal rescue. They get fired, quit, or get with the program. It is a hard, dirty, heartbreaking, and rewarding job.
This book doesn't capture the essence of any of that.
This is one of the main things that turned me off about the book.
Bleh.
Profile Image for Mariah Bowman.
877 reviews1 follower
February 12, 2017
While this was a good book, it seemed a little juvenile in places. It also ended rather abruptly in the middle of a scene. I enjoyed a good portion of it and will even purchase the next one, but I'm hoping for more in it.
Profile Image for Amanda  B Gillespie.
513 reviews16 followers
May 25, 2016
This was a sweet story about a guy and a girl from different socioeconomic classes that meet over a stray cat and kittens. Tessa is a young college student who works for a rescue center and was called to a site to where a mama cat and her kittens were found. Thomas is a young entrepreneur turned CEO after developing fitness apps and has found himself in a new complex with a stray mama cat and kittens in need of rescuing.
Little did they know that this initial contact would be the beginning of a possible love story. The struggles to break through the classes and determine the importance of love for each other comes through gloriously in this book with well-defined characters believable ideas with a sense of dramatic flair. Through twists and turns, Tessa and Thomas learn that to love a person, you must accept their past issues and be willing to plow through to an uncertain future, because face it, all future's are uncertain.
574 reviews4 followers
Read
May 22, 2016
Thomas and Tessa's story is beautiful. They have both come out of bad relationships and come together or Tessa's love and devotion for saving feral cats. Thomas is a very successful businessman. He has started and sold two out of three businesses. His most recent relationship ended with him being dumped. He is a consummate workaholic and there is nothing that will stop his drive to make his company better. Tessa is a struggling college student, who is unsure of life in general and doesn't know what she wants to do with herself, outside of saving cats. They both grew up in different lifestyles than what they are living now. When they come together, they are both unsure of what they want out of their relationship. They are not sure if they even want anything serious. But situations allow for them to draw closer to each other. It was a beautifully written novel. - I was given this book for an honest review.
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