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Woodlands #4
Unrequited
Winter Donovan loves two things: her sister and her sister's ex boyfriend. She's spent her whole life doing the right thing except that one time, that night when Finn O'Malley looked hollowed out by his father's death. Then she did something very wrong that felt terribly right.
Finn can't stop thinking about Winter and the night and he'll do anything to make her a permanent part of his life, even if it means separating Winter from the only family she has.
Their love was supposed to be unrequited but one grief stricken guy and one girl with too big of a heart results in disastrous consequences.
Finn can't stop thinking about Winter and the night and he'll do anything to make her a permanent part of his life, even if it means separating Winter from the only family she has.
Their love was supposed to be unrequited but one grief stricken guy and one girl with too big of a heart results in disastrous consequences.
328 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 13, 2015
160 people are currently reading
2406 people want to read
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April 18, 2015
3.5 Stars
”When you love someone you have to be completely vulnerable to them. You have to give them the opportunity and even the means to knife you in the heart. Only you trust that they won’t. It was easy to love Finn when he was unavailable. So much harder when he returned that love. Having unrequited feelings are safe. It’s when you share them that shit gets real.”
I finished this book almost a week ago and I’m still wrestling with both my rating and my overall thoughts. Individually I loved both Winter and Finn and Jen Frederick has yet to fail me as far as her writing goes. It flows, it’s believable and she manages to pull off the NA genre without a shit load of whining and needless angst (thank you, sweet Jesus for that!) but something was still…lacking for me.
Winter has had a crush on Finn from the moment he entered her life as the boyfriend of her sister when she was just fourteen and he was seventeen. Literally, chica saw some serious angels and she’s been pining away ever since. Oh, and did I mention her sister’s now a huge train wreck and Winter’s feeling the need to fix everything? Finn’s always been the straight laced, level headed guy that looks after everyone around him, until a personal tragedy strikes and he’s left floundering. When these two meet again after a few years apart and some serious destructive life lessons under their belts, sparks fly and a relationship of sorts is born.
I knew what he was saying. It wasn’t that he loved me, wanted to date me, or wanted me to be his girlfriend. He’d probably be disappointed if he saw me next to him tomorrow. He’d wake wondering if he had to chew his own arm to escape me. He was offering a hard fuck in his trailer, not lovemaking in his bed.
And so it begins. I actually loved the fact that Finn was feeling more and was forced to work for it for the first time ever. And I just loved Winter. Her strength of character was enviable and I kinda wish we could be friends in real life, even though she let her sister treat her like crap for longer than she should have. Her feelings of guilt, though completely unnecessary in my opinion, were understood. What didn’t work for me as well was the two of them together. I kept waiting for the moment I was rooting for them as a couple but I never really felt it. Yes, I wanted Winter to bitch slap her bitch of a sister and tell her where she could shove her endless list of issues. I wanted Finn to…I don’t know. Feel alive again and really show it? Something. Maybe his character was a little flat for me and something about the dynamic between these two never reached that elusive kickass couple status.
On the plus side I loved the dialogue. I’ve noticed lately that poorly written exchanges between characters have the ability to completely take me away from a story. That was not the case here and I enjoyed it all.
I know I sound kind of like a crazy schizo as far as this book goes but for the life of me I can’t help it. I loved it, liked it and wanted to kick the shit out of it all at the same time. Yeah, I’m a little dizzy just thinking about it, too.
ARC provided by the author in exchange for an honest review
”When you love someone you have to be completely vulnerable to them. You have to give them the opportunity and even the means to knife you in the heart. Only you trust that they won’t. It was easy to love Finn when he was unavailable. So much harder when he returned that love. Having unrequited feelings are safe. It’s when you share them that shit gets real.”
I finished this book almost a week ago and I’m still wrestling with both my rating and my overall thoughts. Individually I loved both Winter and Finn and Jen Frederick has yet to fail me as far as her writing goes. It flows, it’s believable and she manages to pull off the NA genre without a shit load of whining and needless angst (thank you, sweet Jesus for that!) but something was still…lacking for me.
Winter has had a crush on Finn from the moment he entered her life as the boyfriend of her sister when she was just fourteen and he was seventeen. Literally, chica saw some serious angels and she’s been pining away ever since. Oh, and did I mention her sister’s now a huge train wreck and Winter’s feeling the need to fix everything? Finn’s always been the straight laced, level headed guy that looks after everyone around him, until a personal tragedy strikes and he’s left floundering. When these two meet again after a few years apart and some serious destructive life lessons under their belts, sparks fly and a relationship of sorts is born.
I knew what he was saying. It wasn’t that he loved me, wanted to date me, or wanted me to be his girlfriend. He’d probably be disappointed if he saw me next to him tomorrow. He’d wake wondering if he had to chew his own arm to escape me. He was offering a hard fuck in his trailer, not lovemaking in his bed.
And so it begins. I actually loved the fact that Finn was feeling more and was forced to work for it for the first time ever. And I just loved Winter. Her strength of character was enviable and I kinda wish we could be friends in real life, even though she let her sister treat her like crap for longer than she should have. Her feelings of guilt, though completely unnecessary in my opinion, were understood. What didn’t work for me as well was the two of them together. I kept waiting for the moment I was rooting for them as a couple but I never really felt it. Yes, I wanted Winter to bitch slap her bitch of a sister and tell her where she could shove her endless list of issues. I wanted Finn to…I don’t know. Feel alive again and really show it? Something. Maybe his character was a little flat for me and something about the dynamic between these two never reached that elusive kickass couple status.
On the plus side I loved the dialogue. I’ve noticed lately that poorly written exchanges between characters have the ability to completely take me away from a story. That was not the case here and I enjoyed it all.
I know I sound kind of like a crazy schizo as far as this book goes but for the life of me I can’t help it. I loved it, liked it and wanted to kick the shit out of it all at the same time. Yeah, I’m a little dizzy just thinking about it, too.
ARC provided by the author in exchange for an honest review
April 1, 2015
3.5 - "Your sister's kind of a shit head." Stars.
The Woodlands series of books have a very special place in my heart, Jen Frederick has managed to bring together a very diverse and eclectic mix of characters, and gel them all together into one strong unit. It is great that although each book in this series focuses on one particular character/couple, you are given the opportunity to catch up with everyone else due to their closeness as a group.
”I haven’t had to fight for a lot in my life. But that doesn’t mean
I don’t know how.”
I have to be honest and say this is probably my least favorite book of the series so far, that’s not too say I didn’t enjoy it, Finn and Winter’s story is absolutely stellar, them together, them apart as well as with the rest of the Woodlands crew were all parts of the book I was fully onboard with.
I wanted her a hundred times a day, a thousand different ways.
My main gripes are Winter’s sister Lily, one of the most abhorrent, selfish, spiteful creatures I have come across in my reading recently, but I guess that is in theory the reason Jen portrayed her that way, her involvement in, and impact on the relationship that is developing between Finn and her sister is complex, a bit sketchy and has car crash written all over it from the get go, especially considering that she has quite a past with Finn herself. Jen definitely pulled out all the stops to ensure that her impact on them as a couple, and the readers feelings for her in general left a lasting impression!
”Gardening problems. Too much Ivy.”
In relation to that and in the aftermath of everyone’s actions and reactions it was a struggle for me to wholly get onboard with the end of this book as well. Everything was resolved a little too easily for my liking, forgiveness given and easy-outs provided, and with the build-up throughout the rest of the book, I was expecting a little more, or a less Cut and dried route to redemption for all involved anyway. I did however love the epilogue.
”You can’t hide from me.”
I am not going to lie, I have extremely high expectations when it comes to Jen’s work anyway, I think I have pretty much read (and loved to varying degrees) almost everything she has ever released, and my gripes with Unrequited will probably not even factor on some readers radars. I love her writing style, the way she phrases things and how her descriptions are always a little different too the norm. Her characters and storylines always offer a slightly diverse take on the generalized ‘boy meets girl’ style, and you always, always end up emotionally involved in their stories.
We get to see more Bo, Annemarie, Noah and Grace in this book as well as a few other recurring characters, so a few giggles and a lot of verbal sparring broke up the drama nicely for me. I hope that Jen has time in her packed schedule to get back to this series again at some point in the near future, I feel there are more stories to be told and more pasts to be delved into, and it is just nice to be able to catch up with them all once in a while as well to be honest.
Book one in this series is currently free on Amazon -
UK - http://www.amazon.co.uk/Undeclared-Wo...
US - http://www.amazon.com/Undeclared-Wood...
ARC generously provided by the Author, and it was my pleasure to provide the above honest review.
The Woodlands series of books have a very special place in my heart, Jen Frederick has managed to bring together a very diverse and eclectic mix of characters, and gel them all together into one strong unit. It is great that although each book in this series focuses on one particular character/couple, you are given the opportunity to catch up with everyone else due to their closeness as a group.
”I haven’t had to fight for a lot in my life. But that doesn’t mean
I don’t know how.”
I have to be honest and say this is probably my least favorite book of the series so far, that’s not too say I didn’t enjoy it, Finn and Winter’s story is absolutely stellar, them together, them apart as well as with the rest of the Woodlands crew were all parts of the book I was fully onboard with.
I wanted her a hundred times a day, a thousand different ways.
My main gripes are Winter’s sister Lily, one of the most abhorrent, selfish, spiteful creatures I have come across in my reading recently, but I guess that is in theory the reason Jen portrayed her that way, her involvement in, and impact on the relationship that is developing between Finn and her sister is complex, a bit sketchy and has car crash written all over it from the get go, especially considering that she has quite a past with Finn herself. Jen definitely pulled out all the stops to ensure that her impact on them as a couple, and the readers feelings for her in general left a lasting impression!
”Gardening problems. Too much Ivy.”
In relation to that and in the aftermath of everyone’s actions and reactions it was a struggle for me to wholly get onboard with the end of this book as well. Everything was resolved a little too easily for my liking, forgiveness given and easy-outs provided, and with the build-up throughout the rest of the book, I was expecting a little more, or a less Cut and dried route to redemption for all involved anyway. I did however love the epilogue.
”You can’t hide from me.”
I am not going to lie, I have extremely high expectations when it comes to Jen’s work anyway, I think I have pretty much read (and loved to varying degrees) almost everything she has ever released, and my gripes with Unrequited will probably not even factor on some readers radars. I love her writing style, the way she phrases things and how her descriptions are always a little different too the norm. Her characters and storylines always offer a slightly diverse take on the generalized ‘boy meets girl’ style, and you always, always end up emotionally involved in their stories.
We get to see more Bo, Annemarie, Noah and Grace in this book as well as a few other recurring characters, so a few giggles and a lot of verbal sparring broke up the drama nicely for me. I hope that Jen has time in her packed schedule to get back to this series again at some point in the near future, I feel there are more stories to be told and more pasts to be delved into, and it is just nice to be able to catch up with them all once in a while as well to be honest.
Book one in this series is currently free on Amazon -
UK - http://www.amazon.co.uk/Undeclared-Wo...
US - http://www.amazon.com/Undeclared-Wood...
ARC generously provided by the Author, and it was my pleasure to provide the above honest review.
April 11, 2015
Winter Donovan has been in love with Finn O'Malley ever since her sister introduced him as her boyfriend. For years Winter stood to the side as Ivy and Finn dated and later broke up after her sister fell deeper into the bottle and drugs after their parents death. Even then Winter stayed away except for that night.
Finn O'Malley have never worked for a girl's attention before or for the things in his life. On the outside, he's a guy who has all the opportunities in the world but seems just be cruising along, living below his potential, never had to fight for anything. Then everything changed for him.
Unrequited started off slow for me . Winter in particular has a lot of doubt about starting something with Finn because of their shared history. I am not one of those readers who find it icky to read about a hero having a relationship with the sister or the friend before getting together with the heroine. I find the complicated history between the characters a good source of tension in the story. I didn't agree with some of Winter's choices but her history coupled with the fact that it felt as though she was betraying her sister made her choices understandable.
But what made this book for me -- or should I say, who made this book for me was Finn O'Malley. His dedication to his family, his amorous pursuit of Winter made him a standout hero for me. He was so fine. Being a delicious dirty-talker didn't hurt either.
I liked how the characters changed and grew throughout the book. Winter took her sweet time opening herself up again to Finn. But I wasn't really upset with that because I also feel that Finn needed to show her that she's worth fighting for. Even Ivy didn't annoy me that much. It was actually Finn's mother who really tried my patience. I didn't get it.
Fortunately, those things didn't take away my enjoyment for the story and the characters. It was nice to see the other characters in the series make cameos in this book. And I am definitely looking forward to Adam's book. Either Adam or Tucker. I don't mind as long as they each get their own book. Make it happen, Jen!
ARC provided by the author via TRSOR in exchange for an honest review.
April 13, 2015
‘Winter Donovan loves two things: her sister and her sister’s ex-boyfriend.’
Winter and her sister Ivy are all that’s left of her family after their parents died when Winter was sixteen. While Ivy is the older sibling she has always been immature and reckless. When the story begins she is just out of rehab and is living with Winter. It has been years since Ivy and Finn were together, but it still feels wrong to Winter to have feelings for him.
Finn is broken and on a downward spiral since losing his day. He runs into Winter in a diner one night, one of the few times he is sober since his dad’s passing. Since Winter lost both her her parents she is able to offer comfort to Finn. They talk and Winter helps Finn, but it also turns physical.
Finn completely surprised me, throughout the other books it’s been hard to get a read on him. Regardless my heart still hurt for him and his loss, then to have his family torn apart. Winter is able to help Finn and provides some balance and hope in his life, but things are still pretty messed up.
Maybe I still am a mess, but after the fog cleared, I realized the best thing I had going for me in these last three months was you. So maybe I cut it too close, but I’m here.
While Winter is comforting Finn she has her own mess to deal with at home. Ivy is completely codependent on her and as the story unfolds Winter is burden with even more responsibility caring for Ivy. Ivy is selfish and manipulative, but she is also Winter’s only family. I actually understood Winter’s struggle. While it may seem like an easy decision for some, I get her guilt and indecisiveness.
I have enjoyed this series and getting to know all the characters. I am a huge fan of Winter and Finn, and I was loving this story. I just felt like it was one thing after another for these two. I desperately wanted them to just be happy for a second, but it seemed like everything was short lived.
Regardless, I definitely recommend this series and will definitely continue to read on about the other guys.
ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review.
August 7, 2016
Winter (The heroine) - Winter is our lead lady. She had a crush on our hero (Finn) for as long as she remembers. When she was an infant, she was adopted to the Donovan family. When her parents died a few years back, Winter took the rains into her young hands and kept watching over her addicted sister. She's a hard working girl, and always cleaned up her sister mess. She love her sister and always there for her, even when it comes on her own expense. Even thought Winter wanted Finn for a long time, she didn't sat at home and pine away for him. She dated guys and she wasn't a virgin, which I appreciated. If there is something I can't stand, is a hero who move on and live his life while the heroine sit at home and waiting for him to notice her.
Finn (The hero) - Lets just say - he had Daddy issues. He loved his dad tremendously, but all his life, he tried to be better then him. His dad didn't treated him mom as a husband should treat and that's why Finn was hell bent on Monogamy - he wasn't a man-whore or a guy who did one night stands. He dated girls and that's it. When his dad died (it happened a month before the book started) he went a little crazy and turned to alcohol and meaningless hook ups. It all ended the night he saw Winter again. It was his waking up call. Which I appreciated. It was a black month for him, but it was ONLY a month, and after he met Winter after a while he didn't saw her, he stopped everything altogether.
Ivy (Winter sister and Finn's ex) - I must say, I was a bit hesitate with this whole plot line. I'm not a fan of dating 'sisters' or 'brothers' .. There is just something WRONG about it. But, what I appreciated in this book was that Finn and Ivy broke up 5 years ago. And, he never even said the three meaningful words to her. Actually, he never said 'I love you' to any chick he ever dated. He always kept walls and never fell I love with them. Until Winter.
So the book opens up when Finn and Winter meeting again. They talked. One thing led to another, and they had a one night stand. It meant MORE to Finn, but Winter was sure it was meaningless for him so she run away before he woke up.
Fast forwards two months - Finn is finally ready to chase after Winter. Well... The reader know he wasn't with anyone during that time, but what I didn't get was why Winter never asked him about it? She had insecurity issues (Second wife and all) and she never bothered to find out if he was involved with anyone after sleeping with her? I didn't get that. What I ALSO didn't get was why he waited SO LONG to chase her?? It was never addressed or explained. He needed to sort out his act and accept his feelings for her, but it was never fully explained and even Winter didn't asked for explanations.
The book itself didn't had a lot of plot. He chase her restlessly until she agreed to date him. She insisted to keep it a secret from her sister because she was in a sensitive situation. And then Sex. Sex. And more sex. This book had a lot of sex. Which, this time, kinda bothered me. I needed MORE from them. I kinda felt like their relationship was more on the physical level rather then the emotional. Finn always said that Winter understand him and he love to talk to her, but I didn't felt like I was seeing any of it. All he said was 'we talked' but I missed this part of them connecting. That was my main issues with this book. I felt that I was TOLD rather then saw or felt what was happening and every time they saw each other it was ALWAYS SEX.
Finn was a sweetheart. Even thought it took him two months to go after her, I was glad when he finally started to chase her, he never gave up or pushed her away.
Winter was okay for me. She had her moments where she frustrated me, but overall she was a lovely heroine.
Ivy.. I have no idea what I think about her. She was selfish bitch most of the time, but it was more about her fear to lose winter then anything else. She was very dependable on her. There was DRAMA regrading her sister, which I won't elaborate, but know that things aren't the way they seemed sometimes.
What I LOVED was to see the whole gang again!!! I must say, I almost forgot how much I ADORE Bo and AM!!! This two would always be my favorite couple from this series!:)
We also met a bunch of new characters which I would be happy to read about in the next installments.
For all of you who knows me, you know how much I ADORE this author. I read this book in one sitting because I couldn't stop. Even thought I felt it wasn't one of her BEST work yet, I still liked this book. But sadly, I didn't loved it as I hoped i would. I needed MORE from this two and for the life of me, I can't put my finger on it, but something was missing for me.
Overall - 3.5 stars from me:)
“ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review”
May 28, 2015
Title: Unrequited
Series: Woodlands #4
Author: Jen Frederick
Release date: April 13, 2015
Cliffhanger: No
HEA
It's really hard for me to sit here and write this review up. Let me start out by saying that I am a huge fan not only of this author, but this series in particular. I have read and enjoyed every book preceding this one, but unfortunately, I struggled so very hard to finish this book. The concept is something that I thought had a lot of merit. A heroine secretly in love with her sister's boyfriend runs into him years later and the opportunity arises for her to entertain the possibility of her forbidden fantasies. Could she allow herself what she shouldn't? Would it be so wrong?
This pulled me in right away and it had real hope for a great forbidden romance. Those are always the most provocative and exciting. This one unfortunately fell short of that mark for me. I just was not feeling it no matter how many times I stopped and returned back to the story. When it comes down to it, it failed to evoke much of any emotion out of me.
My first problem I encountered was the one-night stand that began their relationship. Finn runs into her and in a drunken moment decides to hook up with Winter. Winter is conflicted because of her sister's history with him, but decides she's going to give herself this one night to remember with him.
“It’s the only kind I’ve got in me. All the tender emotion has been eaten up by my dad’s death. I want to lose myself in you,Winter.”
My reaction to this hook up was mostly uncomfortable. The heroine's feelings were involved and the only feelings involved with him were lust. It made me almost pity the heroine and I didn't really care for it to be honest. It felt kind of cold and dirty but not in a good way. Basically she was allowing herself to be used by him because of her past feelings and I wasn't loving that fact.
Winter is a girl who allows herself to be used and taken advantage of in general and that was something that bothered me throughout the book. The way she deals with her manipulative sister's deplorable behavior was frustrating to me. While I understood that she felt a certain loyalty and wish to cling to her one remaining family, her allowance of her sister's behavior and her actions in continuing to clean up all of her messes left me feeling closed off from liking her. She's been through hell losing her parents in a car wreck at a young age, and then being forced to deal with her sister's alcoholism and addiction made me want so much more for her. I wished she could have been stronger in demanding more respect for herself.
“When you love someone you have to be completely vulnerable to them. You have to give them the opportunity and even the means to knife you in the heart. Only you trust that they won’t.”
What really ended up leading to my conclusion of ambivalence to the story was seeing not much development in a real connection between the hero and heroine. There was hot sex. And more of that. But it lacked intensity for me because there was nothing drawing me into their true connection.
This author has the ability to create characters that awaken a whole spectrum of emotions out of me, so the fact that I went through this entire book dragging myself through page after page in an effort to discover those feelings made me feel the loss all the more. I tried on multiple occasions to pause and return back in the hope that I would spark something more from this couple, but in the end, I never did find it. I have the utmost respect for this author's talent and her auto-buy status will remain solid. I'm just chalking this one up to a rare loss and moving on.
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April 13, 2015
☆ I received an ARC via TRSOR PR in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!! ☆
3.5-3.75 stars!!
Unrequited was another dazzling yet rattling read from author Jen Frederick. Granted, I hated Winter’s sister with a passion, but other than that I loved this read.
She’s always carried a torch for him…
But what can you do when the man you’ve always wanted, you can never have? Especially, when he’s your sister’s ex boyfriend?
Winter is the quintessential good girl who’s always stayed on the right side of the tracks, but, that’s not to say she hasn’t had her fair share of mishaps and struggles.
She meets up with secret crush, Finn, for one hot night of unbridled passion after a chance meeting while he is mourning the loss of his father, and from there she thinks it’s a done deal. Cut and dry, with no attachments whatsoever.
Fate has other plans, as Finn, in fact, wants more than one night with Winter. And low and behold, when Winter finds herself in a whirlwhind courtship with the man of her dreams, admist objections and external forces *cough cough Ivy!* that may or may not put a wrench in the love affair…What will Fin and Ivy do?
Can their romance stand the test of time along with family and divulging and alarming secrets and revelations? Or is their love just not meant to be?
A refreshing fourth installment to the Woodlands series!
Unrequited was albeit, different, from the rest of the previous series but it did have that necessary flare and drama to pull it through the seams and doubts rumbling around in my head.
I really liked Finn. Yeah, he has a lot going on in this read and sometimes it was quite daunting to the point where I was wondering how he was going to wheel himself out of that situation, he was one of those loyal and reliable heroines that you couldn’t help but admire due to this honorable tenacity to do the right thing and go for what he wants.
As for Winter. Well, I could understand her, I could. But sometimes, my patience for her insecurities ran thin. Other than that though, she was relatable, although she sometimes let her fears and the wants of her loved ones take the better advantage of her.
Over all though, a great addition of old and new, as we do get treated with some mentionings of past characters from previous installments! Yes, I am talking about NoahXGrace, BoXAnnMarie, and more characters! *squeals*
Pre-order your copy now!
3.5-3.75 stars!!
Unrequited was another dazzling yet rattling read from author Jen Frederick. Granted, I hated Winter’s sister with a passion, but other than that I loved this read.
She’s always carried a torch for him…
But what can you do when the man you’ve always wanted, you can never have? Especially, when he’s your sister’s ex boyfriend?
Winter is the quintessential good girl who’s always stayed on the right side of the tracks, but, that’s not to say she hasn’t had her fair share of mishaps and struggles.
She meets up with secret crush, Finn, for one hot night of unbridled passion after a chance meeting while he is mourning the loss of his father, and from there she thinks it’s a done deal. Cut and dry, with no attachments whatsoever.
Fate has other plans, as Finn, in fact, wants more than one night with Winter. And low and behold, when Winter finds herself in a whirlwhind courtship with the man of her dreams, admist objections and external forces *cough cough Ivy!* that may or may not put a wrench in the love affair…What will Fin and Ivy do?
Can their romance stand the test of time along with family and divulging and alarming secrets and revelations? Or is their love just not meant to be?
A refreshing fourth installment to the Woodlands series!
Unrequited was albeit, different, from the rest of the previous series but it did have that necessary flare and drama to pull it through the seams and doubts rumbling around in my head.
I really liked Finn. Yeah, he has a lot going on in this read and sometimes it was quite daunting to the point where I was wondering how he was going to wheel himself out of that situation, he was one of those loyal and reliable heroines that you couldn’t help but admire due to this honorable tenacity to do the right thing and go for what he wants.
As for Winter. Well, I could understand her, I could. But sometimes, my patience for her insecurities ran thin. Other than that though, she was relatable, although she sometimes let her fears and the wants of her loved ones take the better advantage of her.
Over all though, a great addition of old and new, as we do get treated with some mentionings of past characters from previous installments! Yes, I am talking about NoahXGrace, BoXAnnMarie, and more characters! *squeals*
Pre-order your copy now!
April 12, 2015
ARC provided by author in exchange of honest review
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Once again Jen Frederick has me swooning for another member of the Woodland Series and this time, Finn O'Malley will capture our hearts in UNREQUITED.
We all remembered from the previous books that Finn O'Malley was the guy who made his living flipping houses. But when his father recently passed away, a big construction project of his father was left for him to complete. Finn is completely devastated that he lost his father. Not only did he lose the man he admired and looked up to, but he lost his biggest supporter. Reeling from the loss, he turned to alcohol and random sex to fill in the void and numbness. What Finn didn't expect was to be consumed with lust and feelings for Winter Donovan after their one hot, sexy, passionate, and steamy night.
Winter Donovan is the woman who had always had a crush on her older sister's ex-boyfriend. Finn was the one guy that stole Winter's heart. She always wanted him and when that opportunity to be with Finn for one night, she couldn't turn down the chance. And what a hot steamy sexual night it was. That one night changed the course and relationship for Finn and Winter. The lines of friendship blurred when they both finally saw that their attractions and feelings for one another was all consuming. So when Winter finally found happiness and love with Finn, will her sister Ivy make her feel guilty for pursuing Finn? When it comes to choosing, will she love or family?
Unrequited by Jen Frederick was one of those reads that was devoured in one sitting. It is a story that truly showcases the growth of characters. I loved that Jen allowed readers to see the beautiful transformation of Winter Donovan as she discovers her inner strength and learns to stand up for herself. I applaud Jen for writing a heroine that is Asian because it makes this romance tale so modern and realistic. It was a breathe of fresh air to finally have some romantic diversity.
As always, Jen Frederick's writing and storytelling always leaves me smiling and wanting more. The Woodland series is a great series to get lost in and fall in love with swoon-worthy book boyfriends. And be prepared to get your hearts captured by Finn and Winter. Their story will remind us all to never give up on true love and sometimes you must learn to stand up on your own.
Jen Frederick
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Review can also be found on Four Chicks Flipping Pages http://fourchicksflippingpages.weebly...
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Once again Jen Frederick has me swooning for another member of the Woodland Series and this time, Finn O'Malley will capture our hearts in UNREQUITED.
We all remembered from the previous books that Finn O'Malley was the guy who made his living flipping houses. But when his father recently passed away, a big construction project of his father was left for him to complete. Finn is completely devastated that he lost his father. Not only did he lose the man he admired and looked up to, but he lost his biggest supporter. Reeling from the loss, he turned to alcohol and random sex to fill in the void and numbness. What Finn didn't expect was to be consumed with lust and feelings for Winter Donovan after their one hot, sexy, passionate, and steamy night.
Winter Donovan is the woman who had always had a crush on her older sister's ex-boyfriend. Finn was the one guy that stole Winter's heart. She always wanted him and when that opportunity to be with Finn for one night, she couldn't turn down the chance. And what a hot steamy sexual night it was. That one night changed the course and relationship for Finn and Winter. The lines of friendship blurred when they both finally saw that their attractions and feelings for one another was all consuming. So when Winter finally found happiness and love with Finn, will her sister Ivy make her feel guilty for pursuing Finn? When it comes to choosing, will she love or family?
Unrequited by Jen Frederick was one of those reads that was devoured in one sitting. It is a story that truly showcases the growth of characters. I loved that Jen allowed readers to see the beautiful transformation of Winter Donovan as she discovers her inner strength and learns to stand up for herself. I applaud Jen for writing a heroine that is Asian because it makes this romance tale so modern and realistic. It was a breathe of fresh air to finally have some romantic diversity.
As always, Jen Frederick's writing and storytelling always leaves me smiling and wanting more. The Woodland series is a great series to get lost in and fall in love with swoon-worthy book boyfriends. And be prepared to get your hearts captured by Finn and Winter. Their story will remind us all to never give up on true love and sometimes you must learn to stand up on your own.
Jen Frederick
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Review can also be found on Four Chicks Flipping Pages http://fourchicksflippingpages.weebly...
dnf
November 15, 2022DNF @ 6% Promiscuous trashy people being promiscuous and trashy. Meh. Their opening scene turned my stomach.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 16, 2015
When it comes to this series and new adult, Jen Frederick can do absolutely no wrong. If you didn't know this yet, the Woodlands series is one of my all-time favorite NA series. It's got everything that I ask for from a romance book : delicious swoony heroes, loveable female protagonists, and romances that make me envious. I've been waiting a long time to read this latest installment of the series and having loved all of the previous books in the series, my expectations were sky high. But I had nothing to worry about because Jen Frederick delivered in every way.
Winter Donovan was one heck of a strong woman, in ways that weren't overt. Winter was the kind of person who put other people's needs before hers. I both admired and despised the loyalty she had towards her older sister, Ivy, who let me tell you, was a piece of work. Despite everything that Ivy made her go through, Winter remained loyal towards her and was ready to go to lengths to keep her happy. It was one quality that I really appreciated about Winter because it made her so real. Also, can I just add how much I adored the fact that Winter was an Asian protagonist? Kudos to the author for portraying her in a realistic and non-stereotypical way! Winter was also a character that underwent tremendous amounts of growth throughout the book with the help of Finn. I sort of resented her loyalty towards her awful, needy sister at first, but it was important for her character development. By the end of the book, she had not only grown a spine, but she had obtained the courage to prevent people from manipulating and walking all over her. She couldn't have done it without the support of the very swoony Finn! I loved the glimpses of Finn in the previous books, so I was really excited that we got to know him. He was also going his fair share of issues, having recently lost his father and Winter was there to act as his anchor. Bo is my favorite boy in this series, but Finn definitely comes close. He was a real sweetheart and very easy to fall head over heels in love with.
The romance between Winter and Finn might initially seem icky, mostly because Finn and Winter's psycho sister, Ivy dated in the past, but Jen Frederick made it worked. She dealt with it all very nicely and I was never weirded out by it. The romance not only had its seriously steamy moments, but it also filled with sweet emotional moments as well. My favorite part about Winter and Finn's relationship was how they propelled each other to grow up as individuals. Theirs was not a smooth sailing beginning, but I had hope for them because they complemented each other really well. I also liked how Finn was so willing to chase after Winter and not give up on her. Very romantic! Jen Frederick also writes some very steamy sexy times scenes and I admit that those got a little too explicit for my tastes. I wound up skimming them because I was a little uncomfortable, but it didn't tamper with my enjoyment of the book. I also loved that we got to see some of the other characters make guest appearances. When my husband Bo made an appearance, I was flailing in excitement and I think I fell in love with him even more in this book because of his interactions with AM. I love that boy so much! Add to that Jen Frederick's addicting writing style, Unrequited was a winner for me.
Fans of this series will be immensely satisfied with the latest companion novel in the Woodlands series. And for those of you who are NA fans but have yet to read this series, I'm begging you to give this a shot. Trust me, you'll love it!
April 14, 2015
Overall rating: 3 "unrequited" stars!
Triggers:
Cheating:
Love triangle:
Sex with om/ow:
Intimate past:
Other triggers:
HEA:
My review:
As a romance reader, I have become EXTREMELY picky because I simply don't have a lot of time to dedicate to reading romances these days :( With that being said, Jen Frederick is one of my favorite authors and I still love her. I will STILL wait in anticipation for her next book even though this didn't really work for me. I have to say that this book is SAFE for the safety gang, but I would be mindful of the above triggers. Please read my review so you can decide for yourself whether or not you can get past them.
It was overall enjoyable and the hero was pretty relentless in his pursuit of the heroine after he waits 2 months ....
I know I didn't write a summary, but I feel like the blurb does a pretty good job of it and I simply wanted to express my feelings :D
I would recommend this book to anyone who is a fan of this author's work. This is just a case of it's me, not you.
Triggers:
Cheating:
Love triangle:
Sex with om/ow:
Intimate past:
Other triggers:
HEA:
My review:
As a romance reader, I have become EXTREMELY picky because I simply don't have a lot of time to dedicate to reading romances these days :( With that being said, Jen Frederick is one of my favorite authors and I still love her. I will STILL wait in anticipation for her next book even though this didn't really work for me. I have to say that this book is SAFE for the safety gang, but I would be mindful of the above triggers. Please read my review so you can decide for yourself whether or not you can get past them.
It was overall enjoyable and the hero was pretty relentless in his pursuit of the heroine after he waits 2 months ....
I know I didn't write a summary, but I feel like the blurb does a pretty good job of it and I simply wanted to express my feelings :D
I would recommend this book to anyone who is a fan of this author's work. This is just a case of it's me, not you.
July 16, 2015
What happened???? I love the Woodlands boys dearly, but…..
The time I spent aggravated and pissed at Winter’s sister, Ivy, overshadowed the two people that should have had my undivided attention. Ugh. I spent more time being frustrated and pissed off that I really couldn't even enjoy Finn. He was such a great hero that deserved to spend more time in my thoughts than he actually did.
Ivy was nothing but selfish and jealous. Ivy, if your goal in life was to be a manipulative and conniving bitch, then then stop right there because you have gone over and above the call of duty and achieved that honor with flying colors. Winter had done nothing but sacrifice and support you and what have you done for her? Oh yah... Talk her into covering your shifts at the strip club THEN guilt her into a taking a job to make more money for YOU. And don't forget rubbing it in her face that your parents saved her when she was little???? What a piece of work.
The first thing that pops in my head when I think of this book is how awful Ivy is. Ivy wasn’t even a main character so the fact she overshadowed Finn and Winter is a real disappointment for me.
I still loved Finn! I just wish I was able to enjoy him more.
The time I spent aggravated and pissed at Winter’s sister, Ivy, overshadowed the two people that should have had my undivided attention. Ugh. I spent more time being frustrated and pissed off that I really couldn't even enjoy Finn. He was such a great hero that deserved to spend more time in my thoughts than he actually did.
Ivy was nothing but selfish and jealous. Ivy, if your goal in life was to be a manipulative and conniving bitch, then then stop right there because you have gone over and above the call of duty and achieved that honor with flying colors. Winter had done nothing but sacrifice and support you and what have you done for her? Oh yah... Talk her into covering your shifts at the strip club THEN guilt her into a taking a job to make more money for YOU. And don't forget rubbing it in her face that your parents saved her when she was little???? What a piece of work.
The first thing that pops in my head when I think of this book is how awful Ivy is. Ivy wasn’t even a main character so the fact she overshadowed Finn and Winter is a real disappointment for me.
I still loved Finn! I just wish I was able to enjoy him more.
April 10, 2015
Could you cross the line of propriety to “soothe” another’s pain and desperation? What if the little fly in the ointment was that you have pined for your sister’s boyfriend for as long as you can remember? When is the right time to take what you want and live your own life instead of living it for another?
Winter has been the self-appointed crutch for her very troubled sister, Ivy, giving up on living her own life. Finn and Ivy were together, but in Winter’s heart, she was the third point of a non-existent live triangle. When Finn’s devastation at the loss of his father sends him spiraling into an abyss, one chance meeting with him and Winter gives in to her heart and body in a need to "comfort" him. Then she ran. But Finn isn’t through with her and when the opportunity to let her know comes, he comes on like steamroller to get her back in his bed and his life.
At what point will Winter stop hiding behind her sister’s issues when the one man she wants is offering himself up like a prized gem? Some things are meant to be, but are Finn and Winter?
Unrequited by Jen Fredericks is filled with tough decisions, heartbreaking drama and sexual tension as taut as a garrote. Her scenes are graphic, emotionally and visually as she carves out the struggles of two people who want each other. Through many intense sexual scenes, it is apparent there is chemistry between Winter and Finn, but it felt so physical that often the emotional side seem cast into the background. I want to feel the love on at least the same level as the sensual heat. I want to feel the breaking down of emotional barriers and the raw attraction of the heart, a little more. The guilt felt by Winter was very apparent, but if it were so wretched, wouldn’t she either stay away or be completely honest with Ivy, giving her the chance to show how far she has come?
Ms. Frederick has a style that crosses boundaries, digs into the very heart of the story and brings on the angst in full force. She leads us through a twisted tale of love, obligation and need, while allowing both her characters and her readers the opportunity to make their own way, form their own opinions and see the story through their own moral compass. That is bold writing and Ms. Frederick has it in spades.
I received an ARC edition from the author in exchange for my honest review.
Series: Woodlands - Book 4
Publication Date: April 13, 2015
Publisher: Pear Tree LLC
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Print Length: 235 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
Reviewed for: http://tometender.blogspot.com
Winter has been the self-appointed crutch for her very troubled sister, Ivy, giving up on living her own life. Finn and Ivy were together, but in Winter’s heart, she was the third point of a non-existent live triangle. When Finn’s devastation at the loss of his father sends him spiraling into an abyss, one chance meeting with him and Winter gives in to her heart and body in a need to "comfort" him. Then she ran. But Finn isn’t through with her and when the opportunity to let her know comes, he comes on like steamroller to get her back in his bed and his life.
At what point will Winter stop hiding behind her sister’s issues when the one man she wants is offering himself up like a prized gem? Some things are meant to be, but are Finn and Winter?
Unrequited by Jen Fredericks is filled with tough decisions, heartbreaking drama and sexual tension as taut as a garrote. Her scenes are graphic, emotionally and visually as she carves out the struggles of two people who want each other. Through many intense sexual scenes, it is apparent there is chemistry between Winter and Finn, but it felt so physical that often the emotional side seem cast into the background. I want to feel the love on at least the same level as the sensual heat. I want to feel the breaking down of emotional barriers and the raw attraction of the heart, a little more. The guilt felt by Winter was very apparent, but if it were so wretched, wouldn’t she either stay away or be completely honest with Ivy, giving her the chance to show how far she has come?
Ms. Frederick has a style that crosses boundaries, digs into the very heart of the story and brings on the angst in full force. She leads us through a twisted tale of love, obligation and need, while allowing both her characters and her readers the opportunity to make their own way, form their own opinions and see the story through their own moral compass. That is bold writing and Ms. Frederick has it in spades.
I received an ARC edition from the author in exchange for my honest review.
Series: Woodlands - Book 4
Publication Date: April 13, 2015
Publisher: Pear Tree LLC
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Print Length: 235 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
Reviewed for: http://tometender.blogspot.com
April 1, 2015
4 1/2 stars Where to start, where to start first if I'm being honest had I read this book description and this had just been any old author I would have past this book up I am usually not fan of a sisters ex being the hero because all that runs through my mind is ill that is just gross. But this is a book written by Jen Frederick who has never steered me wrong and one of my favorite authors so when this book was given to me by Ms. Frederick I knew she was an author I would take a chance on a storyline like this with. What should have worked against this book and turned me off the book made this book amazing.
Winter grew up the good daughter she was dealt horrible blows but kept her head high and doing what everyone expected of her and for everyone else. When Winter see's Finn her sisters high school boyfriend one night soon after his fathers death Winters heart goes out to him she knows all about the pain of loosing a parent. Winter has always had a crush on Finn but seeing him so lost and hurt Winter wants to help, but what started as helping a lost friend turns into a night neither can or want to forget.
After that night Winter ignores all of Finn's attempts with contact. Winter knows her sister wouldn't like that they were together and with her sister just out of jail a few months back and a recovering addict Winters focus is on keeping her sister on the right path. What Winter didn't take into account was that the night Finn spent with Winter is a night Finn can't forget and a night where Finn realized he could move on from his fathers death and have a life. Now Finn is determined to move on with Winter and prove to her they can have a future.
When Winter's sister Ivy makes a comment in passing that she wouldn't care if Finn and Winter got together that is Winter's ok. Neither Finn nor Winter could imagine how great they are together or how quickly and easily they could fall in love. What starts beautiful soon has many rocky roads dealing with Ivy and then when they find out that Ivy is pregnant, and then her unemployment. Winter doesn't like that her time being filled with Ivy leaves less to spend with Finn but Ivy is Winter's sister so she deals. But Finn feels completely different about this whole situation and thinks Ivy has other motives. Then Ivy drops a bomb on Finn that will tear Finn and Winter apart. Now Finn will have to decide what he can live without and what he is willing to do to keep Winter.
I loved this book when I started it I was busy with kids stuff (spring break) and then I just said no I am reading this book and then I could not put this book down till I finished the last page. This book is so amazing I couldn't sleep for hours after I finished it because my brain just wouldn't turn off, and I couldn't stop thinking about this book. I love this series and I knew after seeing what Finn had been through his book would be good but I had no idea when I opened my kindle I would get this. Finn is a great hero Winter was it for him and he put up with tons of crap because he loved Winter so much, I couldn't get enough of Finn he was relentless in his pursuit of Winter, she was it for him and he would get her no matter what.I loved Winter what wasn't their to love she was smart and kind and loved Finn for years, she was selfless to a fault but having said that I get why she was the way she was. Winter was funny but at the same time dealt with feeling of love and worth from her past.
AND then their was Ivy ***warning rant ahead read at your own risk(lol)***from the very beginning she rubbed me wrong. You know what they say about trusting your instincts yeah their right I HATED Ivy she was one of the most selfish self centered characters I have ever read about. The world existed for the sole purpose of Ivy. I am in no way at all making comments about people who have suffered or had loved ones suffer from addition I have loved ones who have and I would never make light of that so please know my comments are for Ivy and Ive alone. Ivy partied and did her for years letting everyone pick up the pieces behind her while she kept trucking. After Ivy got out of prison and was clean she let Winter take care of her so she could still live in her own selfish world and not grow up or take responsibility, Winter took the brunt of Ivy and Ivy's life and Ivy was A OK with that. When Ivy found out she was pregnant it wasn't her responsibility it was Winter's and hers and the mean selfishness was kicked up seven billion more notches. I could go on and on about how selfish and self center Ivy was because in short that is who she is. I did get frustrated by Winters patients with Ivy but I understood it and why she did what she did. I do think Ivy got off WAY too easily I can't lie I hated her and in my eye she never redeems herself in fact when it all comes out and truths are told Ivy is still taken care of and coddled. All I kept thinking was grow up you spoiled little princess you can't use being an addict as an excuse for forever stop guilting your sister and using your addiction, I actually hated her she is mean and evil to the bone and I don't know that she could ever redeem herself in my eyes.
Now after my rant Jen Frederick amazed me at her writing in this book she made me love Winter and Finn and despise Ivy, this story is amazing and Jen Frederick just keeps getting better and better. A lot of times a series will lag after so many books and that is not the case at all in this book. This book in short was amazing. A word to those who know me I loved this book so when you get to spots in this book that make you scared to keep reading, keep reading you won't regret it. Also for anyone who hasn't read this series you can easily read this book and not be confused yes the other heroes and heroines are in this book but you won't feel lost or like you are missing important events by not reading the entire series but having said that this is a great series you won't regret reading from the beginning. I can't recommend this book enough, and i can't wait for more.
**thank you Jen Frederick for so kindly giving me this ARC for my review
Winter grew up the good daughter she was dealt horrible blows but kept her head high and doing what everyone expected of her and for everyone else. When Winter see's Finn her sisters high school boyfriend one night soon after his fathers death Winters heart goes out to him she knows all about the pain of loosing a parent. Winter has always had a crush on Finn but seeing him so lost and hurt Winter wants to help, but what started as helping a lost friend turns into a night neither can or want to forget.
After that night Winter ignores all of Finn's attempts with contact. Winter knows her sister wouldn't like that they were together and with her sister just out of jail a few months back and a recovering addict Winters focus is on keeping her sister on the right path. What Winter didn't take into account was that the night Finn spent with Winter is a night Finn can't forget and a night where Finn realized he could move on from his fathers death and have a life. Now Finn is determined to move on with Winter and prove to her they can have a future.
When Winter's sister Ivy makes a comment in passing that she wouldn't care if Finn and Winter got together that is Winter's ok. Neither Finn nor Winter could imagine how great they are together or how quickly and easily they could fall in love. What starts beautiful soon has many rocky roads dealing with Ivy and then when they find out that Ivy is pregnant, and then her unemployment. Winter doesn't like that her time being filled with Ivy leaves less to spend with Finn but Ivy is Winter's sister so she deals. But Finn feels completely different about this whole situation and thinks Ivy has other motives. Then Ivy drops a bomb on Finn that will tear Finn and Winter apart. Now Finn will have to decide what he can live without and what he is willing to do to keep Winter.
I loved this book when I started it I was busy with kids stuff (spring break) and then I just said no I am reading this book and then I could not put this book down till I finished the last page. This book is so amazing I couldn't sleep for hours after I finished it because my brain just wouldn't turn off, and I couldn't stop thinking about this book. I love this series and I knew after seeing what Finn had been through his book would be good but I had no idea when I opened my kindle I would get this. Finn is a great hero Winter was it for him and he put up with tons of crap because he loved Winter so much, I couldn't get enough of Finn he was relentless in his pursuit of Winter, she was it for him and he would get her no matter what.I loved Winter what wasn't their to love she was smart and kind and loved Finn for years, she was selfless to a fault but having said that I get why she was the way she was. Winter was funny but at the same time dealt with feeling of love and worth from her past.
AND then their was Ivy ***warning rant ahead read at your own risk(lol)***from the very beginning she rubbed me wrong. You know what they say about trusting your instincts yeah their right I HATED Ivy she was one of the most selfish self centered characters I have ever read about. The world existed for the sole purpose of Ivy. I am in no way at all making comments about people who have suffered or had loved ones suffer from addition I have loved ones who have and I would never make light of that so please know my comments are for Ivy and Ive alone. Ivy partied and did her for years letting everyone pick up the pieces behind her while she kept trucking. After Ivy got out of prison and was clean she let Winter take care of her so she could still live in her own selfish world and not grow up or take responsibility, Winter took the brunt of Ivy and Ivy's life and Ivy was A OK with that. When Ivy found out she was pregnant it wasn't her responsibility it was Winter's and hers and the mean selfishness was kicked up seven billion more notches. I could go on and on about how selfish and self center Ivy was because in short that is who she is. I did get frustrated by Winters patients with Ivy but I understood it and why she did what she did. I do think Ivy got off WAY too easily I can't lie I hated her and in my eye she never redeems herself in fact when it all comes out and truths are told Ivy is still taken care of and coddled. All I kept thinking was grow up you spoiled little princess you can't use being an addict as an excuse for forever stop guilting your sister and using your addiction, I actually hated her she is mean and evil to the bone and I don't know that she could ever redeem herself in my eyes.
Now after my rant Jen Frederick amazed me at her writing in this book she made me love Winter and Finn and despise Ivy, this story is amazing and Jen Frederick just keeps getting better and better. A lot of times a series will lag after so many books and that is not the case at all in this book. This book in short was amazing. A word to those who know me I loved this book so when you get to spots in this book that make you scared to keep reading, keep reading you won't regret it. Also for anyone who hasn't read this series you can easily read this book and not be confused yes the other heroes and heroines are in this book but you won't feel lost or like you are missing important events by not reading the entire series but having said that this is a great series you won't regret reading from the beginning. I can't recommend this book enough, and i can't wait for more.
**thank you Jen Frederick for so kindly giving me this ARC for my review
July 30, 2025
3.5 stars
This book has been on my TBR a long time. I'm glad I have now tackled it. I was a bit apprehensive on how awkward the dating-sister's-ex trope would get, but it was done okay. There was some sister drama but not the way you would think.
I found the writing style and storylines very wholesome, reminding me a bit of Samantha Young, as they matched very well the New Adult setting of the book. The pace of the story flagged down a bit toward the end but overall, it was a nice story. Quite low-angst despite the 'Unrequited' title, because story veered more toward the slice of life/ coming of age than the hyper-emotional woes lines.
NA is not my favourite genre, but JF hit all the hallmarks of it well - be it in terms of characterisations, dialogues, and endless stamina for sex 😅!
P.S. This book could make use of better editing because there were some minor issues like a character having his name changed, some plot points needing clarification for continuity etc.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 20, 2015
I'm having a really hard time trying to pinpoint my thoughts/feelings about this one. The author writes well, so why am I not loving it? I'm not sure I truly felt Finn's connection to Winter or why - it was a little abrupt for me. I just didn't feel it. I rated Losing Control as 4 stars - perhaps it is because the characters acted a little bit more mature in that series. Again, I really like this author's writing style, but I am not truly connecting with the Woodlands series. I did read the entire book as I wanted to read the conclusion but did not get the feeling that I wanted to read again.
I do appreciate the author providing me with a copy for my review - very generous. 3 stars.
I do appreciate the author providing me with a copy for my review - very generous. 3 stars.
April 3, 2018
I missed the other characters from this series in this book. They made an appearance, but they weren't that involved.
April 22, 2015
Somehow (the benevolence of the book gods, I guess) I was bestowed an arc of this the day before we leave for vacation. Can you say AWESOME!?! Looking forward to this next installment. So far I've really loved this series!
October 7, 2017
4 Unrequited Stars
Winter & Finn
I have really enjoyed this series; there wasn’t a lot of drama which I love. This one was more emotional then I was expecting.
I felt sorry for Winter and all she went through, and she seems like a strong character but she was weak too but I think I like best was she grew throughout the book. Not a lot of characters do and I like that about her.
Finn hmm I that he was the right man for the job but sometimes I think he was in the background to much and needed to step forward a little more but that’s just me.
Over all I enjoyed this and am still looking forward to more in the series.. I am waiting for one character to come…
Great narration Stella is a all-time favorite of mine, and Andrew is become one I need more of in my life.
*You don't have to like my review but its 100% my opinion, and I am allowed to have it.*
Winter & Finn
I have really enjoyed this series; there wasn’t a lot of drama which I love. This one was more emotional then I was expecting.
I felt sorry for Winter and all she went through, and she seems like a strong character but she was weak too but I think I like best was she grew throughout the book. Not a lot of characters do and I like that about her.
Finn hmm I that he was the right man for the job but sometimes I think he was in the background to much and needed to step forward a little more but that’s just me.
Over all I enjoyed this and am still looking forward to more in the series.. I am waiting for one character to come…
Great narration Stella is a all-time favorite of mine, and Andrew is become one I need more of in my life.
*You don't have to like my review but its 100% my opinion, and I am allowed to have it.*
for-science
March 29, 2017desk sex
January 10, 2022
That was fucking beautiful.
This author is so damn good. I'm in love. 🌸
This author is so damn good. I'm in love. 🌸
April 21, 2015
Ok ok I will admit it, I have a massive wet soft spot for all the boys from the Woodlands house. And by book four we have a fair amount of insight into each of them as well as a solid knowledge in the fact that they are the kind of men your Dad has nightmares about until they fall in love, cause when they fall they fall hard and they fall fast and there is absolutely no grey (well there’s Gray but he has had his own book ;) )
I have to admit that Winter’s backstory hit me too close to home for comfort and I spent a good portion of the book in tears where I am sure the author didn’t intend. So my opinion on things might be slightly skewed by having my emotions so closely linked.
Winter is the adopted sister of an alcoholic. I don’t know if many people can grasp the kind of person that makes you not on the surface but in the depths of your soul, but damn did Jen nail it. And even though Winter did stupid things and made decisions I would want to slap anyone else for, I got it. It’s hard to walk the line between tough love and support when you’re scared to set off the ticking time bomb that’s your loved one and for a good percentage of the book I was scared Jen was going to let her be the weak selfless person she started as.
Finn was one of the Woodlands guys I was most looking forward to. However the road he walked to get to Winter was hard and I had moments there where I just wanted to see him say fuck you all and run away leave them all to deal with their own fall out. I mean damn Jen give him a break. But then he is the kind of guy who will weather any storm with his broad shoulders held high and I guess that’s why I loved him from the start.
Of course I should have had more faith in the amazing Jen cause the book was written so perfectly that I honestly could believe she has lived it. The drama and angst were in perfect proportion to the events and obstacles Finn and Winter had to overcome to get to the end of the road they were on. And unlike a lot of New Adult books there wasn’t drama or angst for the sake of it. Every bit of it was valid and justified and just added to the characters and their story. And as with all the books in the series the sex scenes were hot as hell and had my tears forgotten and steaming off my pillowcase.
I honestly can say that if I knew going into this book what the themes were I wouldn’t have read it, so I am seriously glad I went into it blind just knowing it was a much awaited, highly anticipated Woodlands Series novel, not even checking to see who’s story I was getting before I dove right on in.
If you haven’t read this series yet I couldn’t recommend it more. However each book can be read as a standalone but why would you want to when some of the best men live at the same address and you get to see a tiny bit of each of their personality in each novel.
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I have to admit that Winter’s backstory hit me too close to home for comfort and I spent a good portion of the book in tears where I am sure the author didn’t intend. So my opinion on things might be slightly skewed by having my emotions so closely linked.
Winter is the adopted sister of an alcoholic. I don’t know if many people can grasp the kind of person that makes you not on the surface but in the depths of your soul, but damn did Jen nail it. And even though Winter did stupid things and made decisions I would want to slap anyone else for, I got it. It’s hard to walk the line between tough love and support when you’re scared to set off the ticking time bomb that’s your loved one and for a good percentage of the book I was scared Jen was going to let her be the weak selfless person she started as.
Finn was one of the Woodlands guys I was most looking forward to. However the road he walked to get to Winter was hard and I had moments there where I just wanted to see him say fuck you all and run away leave them all to deal with their own fall out. I mean damn Jen give him a break. But then he is the kind of guy who will weather any storm with his broad shoulders held high and I guess that’s why I loved him from the start.
Of course I should have had more faith in the amazing Jen cause the book was written so perfectly that I honestly could believe she has lived it. The drama and angst were in perfect proportion to the events and obstacles Finn and Winter had to overcome to get to the end of the road they were on. And unlike a lot of New Adult books there wasn’t drama or angst for the sake of it. Every bit of it was valid and justified and just added to the characters and their story. And as with all the books in the series the sex scenes were hot as hell and had my tears forgotten and steaming off my pillowcase.
I honestly can say that if I knew going into this book what the themes were I wouldn’t have read it, so I am seriously glad I went into it blind just knowing it was a much awaited, highly anticipated Woodlands Series novel, not even checking to see who’s story I was getting before I dove right on in.
If you haven’t read this series yet I couldn’t recommend it more. However each book can be read as a standalone but why would you want to when some of the best men live at the same address and you get to see a tiny bit of each of their personality in each novel.
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April 14, 2015
I really love this series by Jen Frederick! I have been waiting for Finn's book for awhile now (since I read Unbroken!) so I was thrilled to finally get his story. The book begins with Finn in a really bad place, having just lost his father to a heart attack. He is coping by drinking and sleeping around, though neither really do anything to assuage the hurt he feels from losing someone who meant a lot to him. It isn't until he runs into his high school girlfriend's little sister again that he sparks back to life again.
I really liked Winter. She was very sweet and has had a crush on Finn for years now. Meeting up again at a bar, she realizes the attraction to him is still very much there and while she can see he is grieving, wants to be the one to take away his pain. Even from the beginning, these two have incredible chemistry together. Jen writes some very sexy scenes and she writes the male POV so very well. She doesn't pretty her words up- sometimes it comes across as a bit crude, but damn if I don't love that. After that night at the bar, eight weeks go by for Finn and Winter, even though neither one has forgotten about the other. It takes some time for Winter to open back up to Finn, but once she does these two really work well with one another. I love how Frederick's boys go after what they want. They aren't pushovers for sure and they are quite persistent. Speaking of Frederick's boys... It made me really happy to check in with Bo, AM, Grace, Noah, and get a lot of quality time with Adam.
Things with Finn and Winter aren't quite picture perfect however. Ivy, Winter's sister and Finn's ex-girlfriend, ends up playing a pretty pivotal role in this book. I wasn't Ivy's biggest fan because of the way she treated both Finn and Winter, but I did feel bad for the girl. I think Frederick handled her storyline very well, even though I was terrified a huge mistake had been made that would have done some irreparable damage to the story and its characters. Ivy did really grate on my nerves though and I felt she took advantage of Winter and her love for her. That really didn't sit well with me because it was wrong of her to be so manipulative and controlling of a sister who would do anything to protect and take care of her.
Overall, I thought this was a great addition to the Woodlands series. I really loved Finn and Winter and I thought the epilogue couldn't have been more perfect for these two. I really like that Frederick ends her books with epilogues of the future. I am never ready to let go of my characters, so it's nice to get a glimpse of their futures. I can't wait to see who the next book will be about!
*Received a copy of this book via TRSOR Promotions in exchange for a fair and honest review.*
I really liked Winter. She was very sweet and has had a crush on Finn for years now. Meeting up again at a bar, she realizes the attraction to him is still very much there and while she can see he is grieving, wants to be the one to take away his pain. Even from the beginning, these two have incredible chemistry together. Jen writes some very sexy scenes and she writes the male POV so very well. She doesn't pretty her words up- sometimes it comes across as a bit crude, but damn if I don't love that. After that night at the bar, eight weeks go by for Finn and Winter, even though neither one has forgotten about the other. It takes some time for Winter to open back up to Finn, but once she does these two really work well with one another. I love how Frederick's boys go after what they want. They aren't pushovers for sure and they are quite persistent. Speaking of Frederick's boys... It made me really happy to check in with Bo, AM, Grace, Noah, and get a lot of quality time with Adam.
Things with Finn and Winter aren't quite picture perfect however. Ivy, Winter's sister and Finn's ex-girlfriend, ends up playing a pretty pivotal role in this book. I wasn't Ivy's biggest fan because of the way she treated both Finn and Winter, but I did feel bad for the girl. I think Frederick handled her storyline very well, even though I was terrified a huge mistake had been made that would have done some irreparable damage to the story and its characters. Ivy did really grate on my nerves though and I felt she took advantage of Winter and her love for her. That really didn't sit well with me because it was wrong of her to be so manipulative and controlling of a sister who would do anything to protect and take care of her.
Overall, I thought this was a great addition to the Woodlands series. I really loved Finn and Winter and I thought the epilogue couldn't have been more perfect for these two. I really like that Frederick ends her books with epilogues of the future. I am never ready to let go of my characters, so it's nice to get a glimpse of their futures. I can't wait to see who the next book will be about!
*Received a copy of this book via TRSOR Promotions in exchange for a fair and honest review.*
April 27, 2015
Steamy and swoony but the whole sister's ex-thing makes me uncomfortable. Plus GTBH I hate Ivy with a passion even at the end
Given my rating of 4/5 this will surprise you – I have issues with this book. These being personal issue and not a reflection of the book in the slightest I couldn’t justify rating it lower :) You all know my personal problems surrounding addiction and it’s effect on families, so I tend to project all of my anger and hurt onto the characters when reading about similar situations.
Another aspect that I have a slight problem with and has been used in quite a few stories recently, is that of relationships being formed with siblings. Seriously it makes me shudder. However, in this instance Winter is not a biological sibling to Ivy, which did make it slightly easier for me to come to terms with.
Speaking of Ivy (smooth segue yes!) I apologise but I absolutely hate her – even at the end I still hated her with a passion. I have to give Jen Frederick credit for making me feel so much for a character even if it is complete and utter loathing lol. Ivy is selfish, self-absorbed, shallow, manipulative – need I go on. She has the worst character traits all rolled into one. It is difficult to believe that Finn would have ever had a relationship with her (EWWWW)
Luckily, Winter more than makes up for the horribleness of her sister. She is the opposite of everything that is wrong with Ivy, although she does tend to take on the martyr role putting Ivy’s needs before her own to the detriment of her happiness. There is a lot of angst between the pages of Unrequited, so prepare yourself for a rollercoaster ride of emotion.
Finn is a great character and I really liked how self-aware he was. Recognising his faults and past mistakes, wiling to rectify the situation and fight for what he wants :)
Cameo appearances from my favourite characters always aid my enjoyment of the Woodlands series, but if anyone calls Grace plump again I may punch them. Jen’s epilogues are always the best; I love being able to see the characters future play out within the pages *happy sigh*
Unrequited is equal parts steamy and swoony when you get past Ivy.
Given my rating of 4/5 this will surprise you – I have issues with this book. These being personal issue and not a reflection of the book in the slightest I couldn’t justify rating it lower :) You all know my personal problems surrounding addiction and it’s effect on families, so I tend to project all of my anger and hurt onto the characters when reading about similar situations.
Another aspect that I have a slight problem with and has been used in quite a few stories recently, is that of relationships being formed with siblings. Seriously it makes me shudder. However, in this instance Winter is not a biological sibling to Ivy, which did make it slightly easier for me to come to terms with.
Speaking of Ivy (smooth segue yes!) I apologise but I absolutely hate her – even at the end I still hated her with a passion. I have to give Jen Frederick credit for making me feel so much for a character even if it is complete and utter loathing lol. Ivy is selfish, self-absorbed, shallow, manipulative – need I go on. She has the worst character traits all rolled into one. It is difficult to believe that Finn would have ever had a relationship with her (EWWWW)
Luckily, Winter more than makes up for the horribleness of her sister. She is the opposite of everything that is wrong with Ivy, although she does tend to take on the martyr role putting Ivy’s needs before her own to the detriment of her happiness. There is a lot of angst between the pages of Unrequited, so prepare yourself for a rollercoaster ride of emotion.
Finn is a great character and I really liked how self-aware he was. Recognising his faults and past mistakes, wiling to rectify the situation and fight for what he wants :)
Cameo appearances from my favourite characters always aid my enjoyment of the Woodlands series, but if anyone calls Grace plump again I may punch them. Jen’s epilogues are always the best; I love being able to see the characters future play out within the pages *happy sigh*
Unrequited is equal parts steamy and swoony when you get past Ivy.
July 9, 2015
Winter has had a crush on Finn since the day her sister Ivy brought him home and introduced him as her boyfriend. Winter admired from afar.
Finn dated Ivy for 3 years through high school and the 1st year of college. Ivy was a terrible girlfriend. After her parents died she began drinking and then drugs. She dropped out of college. Winter had to sell there house and spend thousands of dollars that they did not have to help her sister get sober.
Ivy went to prison for drug possession (from what I can tell, the author does not really get into any detail about the prison sentence). After Ivy got out Winter was there to help her through the tough times. Ivy fell off the wagon but is now sober 30 days.
Winter runs into Finn right after his father passes away and Finn is distraught and in need of a good friend and some understanding. With Finn's emotional state and Winter's long time crush things become a bit physical between the two of them.
They both try to forget the encounter but secretly want to relive it again and can not stop thinking about each other.
I was hoping Finn would be soon on the series list. I think this was a good story for this character. Finn was shaken after the death of his father and still hurt from the betrayal of his mother. He needed someone to love and who loved him unconditionally.
Winter is a great character. She is loving, kind, caring, FORGIVING, selfless. You fall for the character right away and want to protect her from everyone including herself.
I disliked Ivy (but I think we were supposed to not like her). She was selfish and did not care who she hurt to get her way. She wanted Winter all for herself even if Winter ignored her at least she was not with Finn. That makes no sense. Why would you want someone you love and care about not to be happy? I guess that happens in REAL LIFE all the time though. If you are an unhappy person, you don't want anyone else to be happy either.
Rating: 3 1/2 STARS
Happy Reading!
Finn dated Ivy for 3 years through high school and the 1st year of college. Ivy was a terrible girlfriend. After her parents died she began drinking and then drugs. She dropped out of college. Winter had to sell there house and spend thousands of dollars that they did not have to help her sister get sober.
Ivy went to prison for drug possession (from what I can tell, the author does not really get into any detail about the prison sentence). After Ivy got out Winter was there to help her through the tough times. Ivy fell off the wagon but is now sober 30 days.
Winter runs into Finn right after his father passes away and Finn is distraught and in need of a good friend and some understanding. With Finn's emotional state and Winter's long time crush things become a bit physical between the two of them.
They both try to forget the encounter but secretly want to relive it again and can not stop thinking about each other.
I was hoping Finn would be soon on the series list. I think this was a good story for this character. Finn was shaken after the death of his father and still hurt from the betrayal of his mother. He needed someone to love and who loved him unconditionally.
Winter is a great character. She is loving, kind, caring, FORGIVING, selfless. You fall for the character right away and want to protect her from everyone including herself.
I disliked Ivy (but I think we were supposed to not like her). She was selfish and did not care who she hurt to get her way. She wanted Winter all for herself even if Winter ignored her at least she was not with Finn. That makes no sense. Why would you want someone you love and care about not to be happy? I guess that happens in REAL LIFE all the time though. If you are an unhappy person, you don't want anyone else to be happy either.
Rating: 3 1/2 STARS
Happy Reading!
April 10, 2015
Unrequited is the 4th book in the Woodland series. I can’t get enough of this series. Jen really knows how to keep things lively and new with each book.
Unrequited is the story of Finn and Winter. Finn is the owner of the house where all the guys stay. Finn has always been a mystery to me because he worked so hard and kept to himself in the other books. Winter is Ivy’s sister – Ivy is Finn’s ex girlfriend.
I won’t go into any more details than that – otherwise, I will be telling you the whole book and that just ruins everything.
“When you love someone you have to be completely vulnerable to them. You have to give them the opportunity and even the means to knife you in the heart. Only you trust that they won’t.”
Winter is a very strong woman. She always puts others before her. She and her sister are all they have. They’ve been through so much together, it’s quite amazing that Winter hasn’t lost her way.
Finn is a man that doesn’t give up easily. He also doesn’t let others think he isn’t up for a challenge, even though at times, he’d rather just hand everything over and let someone else handle it. Finn has a great head on his shoulders but isn’t perfect.
This story flows beautifully. Finn, Winter and even Ivy will get under your skin. As you are seeing them go through everything, you will find yourself cheering, smiling uncontrollably, but also wanting to smack them around and even going, “Are you serious Right now?”
The secondary characters really add to the story. They really add another dynamic to the story. I am hoping that maybe we might be getting a story from a few of them down the line. HINT HINT JEN!! LOL
Another fabulous book in this wonderful series!!!
Unrequited is the story of Finn and Winter. Finn is the owner of the house where all the guys stay. Finn has always been a mystery to me because he worked so hard and kept to himself in the other books. Winter is Ivy’s sister – Ivy is Finn’s ex girlfriend.
I won’t go into any more details than that – otherwise, I will be telling you the whole book and that just ruins everything.
“When you love someone you have to be completely vulnerable to them. You have to give them the opportunity and even the means to knife you in the heart. Only you trust that they won’t.”
Winter is a very strong woman. She always puts others before her. She and her sister are all they have. They’ve been through so much together, it’s quite amazing that Winter hasn’t lost her way.
Finn is a man that doesn’t give up easily. He also doesn’t let others think he isn’t up for a challenge, even though at times, he’d rather just hand everything over and let someone else handle it. Finn has a great head on his shoulders but isn’t perfect.
This story flows beautifully. Finn, Winter and even Ivy will get under your skin. As you are seeing them go through everything, you will find yourself cheering, smiling uncontrollably, but also wanting to smack them around and even going, “Are you serious Right now?”
The secondary characters really add to the story. They really add another dynamic to the story. I am hoping that maybe we might be getting a story from a few of them down the line. HINT HINT JEN!! LOL
Another fabulous book in this wonderful series!!!
March 20, 2017
2.5 Stars for this masterpiece. I know sarcasm is the lowest form of wit. Don't care it makes me happy.
So far this is my least favorite of the series. There are a couple of issues I had problems with.
Would I date my sisters ex? Don't know really. Depends on the circumstances. Even if said sister had cheated on the ex? Then maybe. If my unrequited Feelings could become a reality? Then more than likely. Still odd though on some Kind of Level and I'm glad I have a brother instead of a sister.
Winter Donovan has always had to clean up her sister Ivy's messes. Winter has always had a crush on Finn. Finn has never had to really work for anything well up until now at least. They spend one night of Passion and talking and then he chases Winter 2 months later.
I nearly stopped reading when said sister was pregnant and there was a certain implication that who the father might be. I might have found the plot slightly tedious because it concentrated more on Ivy then on the main characters. I might have skimmed quite a bit to get to the end of the book. I might have also thought that the ending was a bit pants. I will read Adams book though.
Winter wasn't annoying really but she was weak in my eyes by not really standing up to her sister.
I wish Winter would have found out what Finn did for her with paying the lawyer costs etc.
So far this is my least favorite of the series. There are a couple of issues I had problems with.
Would I date my sisters ex? Don't know really. Depends on the circumstances. Even if said sister had cheated on the ex? Then maybe. If my unrequited Feelings could become a reality? Then more than likely. Still odd though on some Kind of Level and I'm glad I have a brother instead of a sister.
Winter Donovan has always had to clean up her sister Ivy's messes. Winter has always had a crush on Finn. Finn has never had to really work for anything well up until now at least. They spend one night of Passion and talking and then he chases Winter 2 months later.
I nearly stopped reading when said sister was pregnant and there was a certain implication that who the father might be. I might have found the plot slightly tedious because it concentrated more on Ivy then on the main characters. I might have skimmed quite a bit to get to the end of the book. I might have also thought that the ending was a bit pants. I will read Adams book though.
Winter wasn't annoying really but she was weak in my eyes by not really standing up to her sister.
I wish Winter would have found out what Finn did for her with paying the lawyer costs etc.
March 29, 2015
Finn that boy doesn't mince his words, "you’ve grown into a very beautiful woman. I’d very much like to take you inside the trailer and eff you up against the wall." There was one conversation Finn and his lady had that had me cracking up:
As I held him in my hands, it seemed to grow longer, wider. "Is it me, or are you getting longer?"
"Baby, he's never been subject to such an amazing inspection. I think he's showing off for you."
"I like that."
"He likes you. It's a mutual admiration society . He'd really like it if you squeezed him— hard."
Finn doesn't mind sharing his dirty secrets, "I do. When I'm not with you, I don't shower or shave. I scratch my balls and fart." I tickled her. "Is that scary enough?" I loved it when our boy was playful, "I'm okay with the tying up." I rose from the bed, reached over and slung her over my shoulder. "Not sure about the whipping ." I gave her sweet a** a swat, and she yelped." As usual I enjoyed Jen's book I love the Woodlands series and I can't wait for more.
June 22, 2015
Romance Contemporary
RATING: B
Fans of this series have waited impatiently for Finn’s story. Book three left readers sadly watching Finn’s slow meltdown into alcohol and women after his father passes away. Sweet and achy is a good way to describe this NA. Addiction, enabling, and the constraints we place on ourselves in regards to family are the key points that our protagonists are forced to reckon with as Finn finds himself attracted to his ex girlfriend’s younger sister. A delicious romance brews slowly as various subplots erupt to flesh out the on going issues faced by this couple both individually and as a couple. An interesting turn of events places the main conflict in sharp relief, forcing a choice to be made. This series continues to mature both emotionally and physically and I look forward to the next on the series.
RATING: B
Fans of this series have waited impatiently for Finn’s story. Book three left readers sadly watching Finn’s slow meltdown into alcohol and women after his father passes away. Sweet and achy is a good way to describe this NA. Addiction, enabling, and the constraints we place on ourselves in regards to family are the key points that our protagonists are forced to reckon with as Finn finds himself attracted to his ex girlfriend’s younger sister. A delicious romance brews slowly as various subplots erupt to flesh out the on going issues faced by this couple both individually and as a couple. An interesting turn of events places the main conflict in sharp relief, forcing a choice to be made. This series continues to mature both emotionally and physically and I look forward to the next on the series.
April 24, 2015
I liked winter to begin with but after the incident with Ivy and Winter after the party and break up she just annoyed me.
There was nothing stopping her from taking Finn back after she moved in with Tucker even if she did have a reason. She was just always really confused with her reasoning as to whether Ivy should have an abortion or not . Didn't like Ivy at all , Finn was the only positive aspect of the book.
There was nothing stopping her from taking Finn back after she moved in with Tucker even if she did have a reason. She was just always really confused with her reasoning as to whether Ivy should have an abortion or not . Didn't like Ivy at all , Finn was the only positive aspect of the book.
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