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The Vert Series #1

Vertical Lines

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An artist and a smart girl.
A staid family and a broken one.
She’s adorably literal; he’s big and quietly emotional.

Jordana Richards was determined to make the best of her post high school life, despite the fact that nothing about her current college experience was of her choosing: not the school or the major, and definitely not the place. But it wasn't home, so that's something. Yet, the harder she tried to fit in, the less she felt like she did.

Until the night she said screw it.

Until the night she walked out on her parents and bought her very own piece of cake.

The same night she met Brooklyn Novak: brooding artist, huge man, overall scary human being who took a keen interest in her.

Brooklyn was out of ideas. He had no art, because really, his subjects had no soul. When the girl at the convenience store clicked her way into his life on five hundred dollar shoes and the fumes of a tantrum, this changed. Jordana Richards: the rich girl with a mission who gave Brooklyn the spark he needed to create again.

Uncomfortable with their attraction, Brooks and Jordan strike a deal: he'll help her have fun, she'll be his muse for as long as he needs. Simple.

Yeah right.

The more time they spend together, the more both of them realize that what started out as a convenient relationship is now transitioning to vital, and neither knows how to deal with it.

When a truth comes to light that has the potential to break both of their worlds, Jordan and Brooks have to decide how deep their feelings really go, and just how much they are willing to sacrifice in order to be together.

323 pages

First published December 11, 2015

20 people are currently reading
266 people want to read

About the author

Kristen Kehoe

15 books150 followers
I am the youngest of three daughters and I think this is the reason I enjoy writing about love so much.

I come from a family of high school sweethearts, save myself (thank God), and I have watched how finding love, the real kind, can make a person stronger. My parents have inspired me every day because they found each other at eighteen, got married at nineteen, and never looked back. Now, 35 years later they are still going strong and it makes me realize that love really does aide us in all things.

I write young and new adult books because I think it's the time period in our lives that is the most difficult and I enjoy love stories because we all need hope. Reading about love gives me hope, so I hope my writings about love do the same for any reader who happens to glance at the pages.

I have a daughter, a Great Dane, and a beautiful husband. I love books, coffee, and my family...and shoes. Just saying.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
Profile Image for Romance Readers Retreat.
2,346 reviews224 followers
January 15, 2016
I don't know about you, the other book lovers out there, but sometimes it's hard to pin-point exactly what it is about a book that grabs you. Sometimes, even when you know, it's hard to put into words. 
But what remains a constant for me is the way a book can induce emotions - sometimes it's tears, sometimes laughter - and with this book, it was a constant pressure on my chest. A weight that at times can be suffocating, but that I eagerly endure.

This book's synopsis is intriguing, there's no doubt about that, but it's so much more. 
As I delved deeper into the lives of the characters, you become immersed in their toil, they joy, their sorrow.

Sometimes it's not just about the hot scenes or the angst. Sometimes it's just the smaller things, the things that resonate within our own lives or pasts, that call out to us and force us to identify.

Brooklyn is a great character! Brooding and almost unapproachable but hidden beneath his nonchalant exterior, there was so much more!

The sub-characters in this book are so well developed that they're as much a part of the story as Brooklyn and Jordana.

Hunter intrigues me, although I would guess that Mal's story would be next. Whichever it is, if the next few books in this series are as well written as this one, I'll be waiting to get my hands on them!
Profile Image for Kate.
2,285 reviews357 followers
August 1, 2017

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There is something about this book that has made it special. This is my first book by Kristen Kehoe and it won’t be my last. Ms. Kehoe has a very unique and interesting writing style. From the very first page to the last word of this I was immersed in a world built of beauty. It captivated me, made me feel so many different emotions. For me personally there is true depth and meaning to this story. It is a story of two people who although opposites still have a lot in common. They love, they laugh, they trust and they suffer together. It’s told in a dual point of view which I love. I always feel with some books that we miss out on what the hero has to say. In this he had a lot to say for a non -talker and he meant what he said.


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Jordana “Jordan” Richards has had a privileged life with this life certain rules were set and she had to abide them, it was dictated from an early age, what to do, what to wear, what to eat and how to act. Although she comes from money she is down to earth in some ways but also naive in others. But what she does know is that she wants to change the life that she is currently living.
Since Jordan stated the following:
It smells so delicious I’d give my left tit just to continue smelling it for my life. Feeling brazen, I rip a piece of the bread off and pop it into my mouth. Sourdough. Still warm. Hello. Heaven. I’ve been waiting to meet you. Is there such a thing as a foodgasm? Because I just had one.
How can you not like her? Right?

Jordan hasn’t had a lot of love in her family. They are unemotional and dysfunctional, yes even rich people have problems. Her brother Mason is the golden child. After a family meal gone wrong, Jordan makes a list of things to change.

Brooklyn “Brooks” Novak is a nurturer, from a young age he has taken care of others. That includes his mother and his sister Ashton who suffers from Body Dysmorphic Disorder. Is emotional outlet? His art. Painting, drawing, sketching, mixed media but he has lost his creativity and the last three months have produced nada. He is down at the 7/11 to buy cigarettes to help kick start his inspiration.

Paths that shouldn’t cross, cross. Jordan tries to eat some cheap cake but that rebellion doesn’t pan out until that moment Brooks sees her as a Stopford Wife until he looks closer, takes a photo with Jordan’s knowledge and then just walks away. Yet with all good romance novels their paths cross again. His inspiration is back and they learn hard lessons and a lot from one another. Jordan becomes his muse.

Life’s not picky about who she slaps; the hit isn’t avoidable. I’ve learned that. It’s what we do in between blows that makes it worth it.”

Not only were Brooks & Jordan engaging as characters as well but the secondary characters made this book into something special as well. Malcolm, Hunter and Nala (Jordan’s roommate, surprise) are family not by blood that isn’t always important. They accept Jordan with open arms.

As fate will have it, Jordan’s brother and Brooks’s sister start dating. It doesn’t end well though.
This book is about finding yourself, the person that you want to be and what you have to do, to actually achieve that. There are mesmerizing moments as well as poignant moments especially with what happens to Ashton it is tragic, heartbreaking and deeply disturbing on an emotional level. Well it was for me anyway. Different strokes and all that.

Writing this review didn’t come easy as there were so many touching moments to say and I highlighted about half of the book.

There was a different side to this book as well with happy, funny moments full of banter.
”You’re really a secret agent working for my mother. This is actually an intervention about my new, but very real addiction to bread, not a party.” “You’re funny, Red. How come I’m just learning this?” Don’t beat yourself up. It’s been three days. I’ve had eighteen years and I’m just figuring it out.” She points at me. “There it is again, which makes me believe this might not be as bad as I was thinking.”

Brooks as the strong and silent type sees everything. Jordan with her curiosity and zest to live her life to the fullest.

She isn’t always strong, though; just like she isn’t always herself. She’s pockets of insecurity we feel each day, the failures we can’t avoid, the pain and the heartache.
Chemistry between Brooks and Jordan was palpable.

This girl. My muse. My heart. Mine
I could drown in Brooklyn Novak and never regret one sacrificed breath.

Insecurities, hurt, grief and pain gets in the way. He feels like he failed his sister so he will automatically fail Jordan. He is angry and feels that his desire and protectiveness won’t be enough. They get a happily for now and there is no other woman drama.


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If the other books to come will be like this one then I can’t wait to read the rest of them.
I have one thing that I need to complain about and that is the formatting of the book but in all honesty not enough to dock a star.


Review to follow. Book received from Mark My Words Book Publicity‏ via netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

Can also be found on http://jeri-ryan.wix.com/jerisbookatt...
Profile Image for Mikky.
985 reviews284 followers
August 23, 2016
Originally posted at:


What a sweet and well written book. I can't tell you exactly what I adored in this book, but I can tell you that I'm so glad I picked it up. The pacing of it all was fantastic and the character's are so very lovable.

Jordana (AKA Jordan) is used to being told what to do and how to act. She's supposed to be the perfect woman, with the perfect life and study for something her family approves of. After a dinner gone wrong she starts to rebel. Not in the sense of drugs and all that other nonsense. She meets a guy that makes her want to get out of the shell created by her mother and actually live like a college student should and have friends that like her for her and not for what she could represent to their future. I loved how she found her backbone and stuck to it during the entire novel.

I loved Brooklyn (AKA Brooks) until the last 3 chapters. As much as I understand where he was coming from, I just can't imagine I'd be OK with something like that, when I look at it from Jordan's point of view. He was awesome until that breaking point and, to me, he was never the same. One thing I liked right off the bat was his love of art (painting, drawing, photographing). Too bad he did what he did at the end.

This book also features a character who has the equivalent of body dysmorphia. Throughout the novel, you see how bad it gets and how everyone suffers right along with that person. At the end of the day it's something that's in their head and there's no amount of therapy and medication that will make it get better. It's a sad reality that only gets worse with the media's involvement. The acknowledgments from the author says something that's very true, "Be brave; be strong; be in love with yourself, first and foremost".

My Favorite Quotes:

"Remembering that beauty isn't one thing. It isn't one person. It's features, personalities, ideas, beliefs. It's confidence."

"Sometimes we need a reminder that life is easier than we think."

"I know well that dreaming can only give us what we want for so long before gravity drags us back down and forces us to live in the world we have created."
Profile Image for CeCe.
3,623 reviews108 followers
October 24, 2016
Rich girl does not want to do what her family wants her to do anymore so she rebels. First by going to a convenient store and buying a chocolate dessert - which she later spits out in the trash outside of convenient store. "Problems of a rich girl." The hero, Brooks, who is at the convenient store sees Jordan do this and she becomes his muse. Okay, I thought it was odd, but I continued reading. I was going to give this one a try. Well, no matter how many times I picked this up, I could not connect.

There was a lot of inner dialogue and information that did not help me connect.

Jordan wanted out of the "rich" lifestyle, but I felt that she still liked what it gave her.

There was nothing about her that I liked. She appeared dense.

Also, I am not sure why I was introduced and given the ENTIRE history of the secondary characters (Nala and Malcolm) and their "love" story , before I was able to connect to Brooks and Jordan. Lets stick with one couple before we jump to another.

I just got bored. It was too much of nothing. I wanted to read a book about a girl who wanted out of her current controlled, rich lifestyle, but I never felt she would give it all up. It was a bunch of words to tell me what she wanted, but actions speak louder than words. I wanted to yell at her "get a job! Pay for your own education and stop complaining. If you really want out, show it, don't just eat some carbs and spit it out and say your body rejects that stuff from the convenient store. " I don't think her family was physically threatening to kill her if she left her expensive shoes and clothes. So she could just left it all behind. This was just a story about Jordan and her "poor me" story.

My opinion. You may love this book. Reading is subjective.
Profile Image for Anna Kay.
1,458 reviews161 followers
January 10, 2016
More like 3.5 stars, mainly because I felt like the lead characters had some unrealistic dialogue at certain points. That said, the way this romance unfolded was wonderful. It was nowhere near the nasty instalove trope that permeates YA and New Adult. I really loved Jordan and Brooks, but the side characters (Nala, Malcom, Hunter, Ashton, Mason) were extremely present and well fleshed out. The thing with Ashton's illness was scary, real and heartbreaking. The ending was mushy, but that's to be expected in a romance. I liked it but I didn't LOVE, it hence the 3.5 stars. I will be reading the next one though and I would recommend it. :)
58 reviews
October 2, 2016
This wasn't just a story about two people falling in love. It's about finding your true self and finding family. It was emotional for me and inspiring.
Profile Image for Entre letras y cámaras.
173 reviews14 followers
June 1, 2016
En The Vert Series encontraremos varias novelas, cada una de ellas con los diferentes personajes que nos han presentado en Vertical Lines, según pasan los obstáculos que la vida les ha puesto en su camino y sobre todo, cómo van formando una gran familia entre todos ellos que se apoya en cualquier situación, por muy dura que sea.

El primer libro de la saga trata la historia de Brooklyn Novak y Jordana Richards, un artista que ha criado solo a su hermana y ahora sufre un bloqueo artístico y una niña rica que quiere demostrar que es mucho más que una marioneta de su madre. Una noche, en la que Jordan intente rebelarse comiendo algo que su familia no aprobaría, Brooklyn le hace una foto, inspirado después de meses sin ideas para pintar. Por azares del destino sus personajes se volverán a cruzar una y otra vez hasta ser una constante en la vida del otro, que tendrá un papel mucho más importante del que pensaban al principio.

Para leer la reseña completa haz clic aquí --> http://entreletrasycamaras.blogspot.c...
Profile Image for Tolk.
292 reviews
May 3, 2017
4.5 stars
It was on its way to a 5 star read but there were things the MC did that threw me off and kept nagging at me.
But still, a wonderful slow burn!!
Profile Image for Celeste.
690 reviews42 followers
December 1, 2015

This book was originally reviewed on The Book Hookup.

**I received an advance copy,but that did not influence the review**

4.5 emotionally glorious stars You guys. You guys. I am in love with this new author. I get what she writes. This is the 2nd book I’ve read by Kristen Kehoe and her words just speak to me. Let me tell you why.
#1. I love the cover.
It’s *almost* a problem. Who am I kidding? It’s not a problem!
*looks at it some more*
I am picturing Matt Ramsey, lead singer of Old Dominion as Brooks (go ahead, google him, I’ll be here when you get back) ;)
I’m right, right?
#2. Brooks.
He is silently gorgeous and emotional and big and just…. SO UNFFFFFF. With a beard. Mama likey.
#3. Jordana.
That’s right. I almost love the heroine as much as the hero. How awesome is that?!? She was a great heroine and I found myself feeling as if I were her. I loved her soul searching journey.
#4. The romance.
Slow. Burning. Sparks. So deep and heart wrenching and perfect and I could not get enough.
#5. The best friends.
So often the secondary cast don’t serve a purpose other than to annoy the reader, but here, they were a huge part of the story and I cannot wait for their stories.

Do you need to know more? Well that works for me because I have so much to say. I’ll keep it spoiler free so don’t worry. Vertical Lines is my 2nd book by Ms. Kehoe and I have learned that she writes brilliantly about self discovery…and falling in love at the same time. I seriously can’t get enough of her words.

Those words also include Brooks. Sweet lord I love him. He is definitely gruff, yet so soft and gentle. The combination had me swooning. Even though he could be bold, he also knew when to relent. His statements were beautifully, refreshingly honest thoughts. He was brooding, but not tortured. Yes, he had struggles, but he wasn’t stuck in his own head. He was stronger than that…most of the time. I could still getl how helpless he felt at times, and the pain because of his sister Ashton. But really in the end, for as strong as he was, he was human and could only take so much. Yes, this made for some serious heart squeezing moments.

I also loved the way Brooks flattered Jordan. I loved the way he was so himself. I loved the way he reached her in a way that made a difference:

I had a frustrating day, and it seemed easier to cancel. Except – I need to work, Red. Really work. Your face…it makes me see again.
~Brooks


That had me swooning like nobody’s business. So honest that my heart flipped.

Let’s talk about the kisses next. Oh my, the kisses were so good. So intense. The angst and UST…it was killing me. The pull, the chemistry…I’m feeling all giddy just thinking about it. Brooks and Jordan took it slowly, but my friends, the burn was worth it. A certain moment of hand holding nearly put me over the edge at one point too.

What did I need more of? I think the fact that Brooks was physically big, I needed it mentioned more somehow. It seemed to be a vital part of who he was; he was silent but a large presence. Maybe it wasn’t supposed to be a focus, maybe I’m just greedy and want everything…

So now that you know I loved the MCs, the secondary characters, the romance and the writing, let’s get to the ending. Oh man, I did not like Brooks’ choice at the end. I wished there had been some kind of heart wrenching conversation so I could have justified his actions more, I would have liked that better. It all just happened so fast, and I really was kind of upset with him. But then we skipped ahead 5 months and I don’t think I suffered as much as I probably should have. (Yes, I love to have my heart ripped out). The ending was too rushed compared to the rest of the book. Even with an epilogue I needed the pacing to be different for the last part. We worked so hard to get there, and then it was over. I never got to roll around in it and suffer and feel whole again. However, I did not read the very final version so things might very well be different. Don’t let that deter you though, that is just me nit-picking so I can give you a nice full rounded review.

Rec this? YES YES YES. If you love a swoony romance that takes time and shows you the journey of learning who you are, this is a must for your TBR!

Happy reading!
Profile Image for BookHookup.
1,403 reviews108 followers
December 1, 2015

This book was originally reviewed on The Book Hookup.

**I received an advance copy,but that did not influence the review**

4.5 emotionally glorious stars You guys. You guys. I am in love with this new author. I get what she writes. This is the 2nd book I’ve read by Kristen Kehoe and her words just speak to me. Let me tell you why.
#1. I love the cover.
It’s *almost* a problem. Who am I kidding? It’s not a problem!
*looks at it some more*
I am picturing Matt Ramsey, lead singer of Old Dominion as Brooks (go ahead, google him, I’ll be here when you get back) ;)
I’m right, right?
#2. Brooks.
He is silently gorgeous and emotional and big and just…. SO UNFFFFFF. With a beard. Mama likey.
#3. Jordana.
That’s right. I almost love the heroine as much as the hero. How awesome is that?!? She was a great heroine and I found myself feeling as if I were her. I loved her soul searching journey.
#4. The romance.
Slow. Burning. Sparks. So deep and heart wrenching and perfect and I could not get enough.
#5. The best friends.
So often the secondary cast don’t serve a purpose other than to annoy the reader, but here, they were a huge part of the story and I cannot wait for their stories.

Do you need to know more? Well that works for me because I have so much to say. I’ll keep it spoiler free so don’t worry. Vertical Lines is my 2nd book by Ms. Kehoe and I have learned that she writes brilliantly about self discovery…and falling in love at the same time. I seriously can’t get enough of her words.

Those words also include Brooks. Sweet lord I love him. He is definitely gruff, yet so soft and gentle. The combination had me swooning. Even though he could be bold, he also knew when to relent. His statements were beautifully, refreshingly honest thoughts. He was brooding, but not tortured. Yes, he had struggles, but he wasn’t stuck in his own head. He was stronger than that…most of the time. I could still getl how helpless he felt at times, and the pain because of his sister Ashton. But really in the end, for as strong as he was, he was human and could only take so much. Yes, this made for some serious heart squeezing moments.

I also loved the way Brooks flattered Jordan. I loved the way he was so himself. I loved the way he reached her in a way that made a difference:

I had a frustrating day, and it seemed easier to cancel. Except – I need to work, Red. Really work. Your face…it makes me see again.
~Brooks


That had me swooning like nobody’s business. So honest that my heart flipped.

Let’s talk about the kisses next. Oh my, the kisses were so good. So intense. The angst and UST…it was killing me. The pull, the chemistry…I’m feeling all giddy just thinking about it. Brooks and Jordan took it slowly, but my friends, the burn was worth it. A certain moment of hand holding nearly put me over the edge at one point too.

What did I need more of? I think the fact that Brooks was physically big, I needed it mentioned more somehow. It seemed to be a vital part of who he was; he was silent but a large presence. Maybe it wasn’t supposed to be a focus, maybe I’m just greedy and want everything…

So now that you know I loved the MCs, the secondary characters, the romance and the writing, let’s get to the ending. Oh man, I did not like Brooks’ choice at the end. I wished there had been some kind of heart wrenching conversation so I could have justified his actions more, I would have liked that better. It all just happened so fast, and I really was kind of upset with him. But then we skipped ahead 5 months and I don’t think I suffered as much as I probably should have. (Yes, I love to have my heart ripped out). The ending was too rushed compared to the rest of the book. Even with an epilogue I needed the pacing to be different for the last part. We worked so hard to get there, and then it was over. I never got to roll around in it and suffer and feel whole again. However, I did not read the very final version so things might very well be different. Don’t let that deter you though, that is just me nit-picking so I can give you a nice full rounded review.

Rec this? YES YES YES. If you love a swoony romance that takes time and shows you the journey of learning who you are, this is a must for your TBR!

Happy reading!
Profile Image for Renita.
303 reviews39 followers
February 19, 2016
I stumbled across this book via Instagram. The cover caught my eye of course because... gah I just love it... but the synopsis only intensified my desire to read it as soon as I could. Fast forward to a empty Sunday afternoon and I dove in...

I didn't come up for air until there was nothing more to be read.

"She's not entitled, just privileged. And something else."

Vertical Lines was one of the stories that gave me so much more of a story than I was anticipating. The kind of story that I found myself nerding out in a "you've got you NEED to check this book out!" kinda way to anyone in listening distance afterwards. (This is far warning to the geek out covered review that's about to happen...)

In a genre that can sometimes give us those insta-love stories that don't quite register as believable with me. I found this one to have all the things I love about New Adult books AND all the things I love in a love story blended together in a perfect tale that had the pleasant mark of being believably realistic.
For me this book told me that Kristen Kehoe sure knows how to write a love story. It was written with a true sense of New Adult maturity and a beautiful sense of wisdom and understanding. I can't say enough about how much I enjoyed this well crafted love story.

I think the synopsis does a good job at telling you all you need to know about the plot before walking in so I don't really want to do too much more elaboration on that except that this plot is that and so much more. They aren't drawn together solely because of physical attraction. It's something greater that acts as a magnetic force that pulls them together until it feels like it's more natural than ever being apart.
Everything about Vertical Lines had a pleasant naturalness about it. Their connection felt genuine. Their issues and conflicts weren't overdone and sprang forth from very real issues. It all came together and worked out into something that still makes me feel content with every bit of it.

If I had to pick a favorite character in this story I wouldn't be able to because I love ALL the characters.
I loved both of the MCs from the very beginning and throughout the story my love for them just continued to grow deeper. Both Brooklyn and Jordana are talented, intelligent, and strong. They are so full of strength that sometimes they don't know it but it's there, undeniable and has you rooting for them in everything. I love that they found that they complimented one another.
But it doesn't end with them.
Since this is the first book in a series, it does a remarkable job at introducing us to the "supporting cast" and it goes even further by making me fall in love with all of them. Even the ones I was unsure of quickly reassured that redemption was on the horizon.
If you're familiar with the blog you'll know that the mark of a great read for me is walking away not with the book boyfriend... but with the book bestie. Vertical Lines does this several times over.
Watching the bond that Brooklyn, Nala, Hunter, and Mal have was emotional for me. The familial love that came with their bond transcended to include Jordan and I felt myself thrilled for her to know what that kind of friendship and family felt like. Even putting that aside, her relationship with Nala stands out firmly in my mind as another favorite.

Ah I could gush on and on but I'm going to stop myself and end it with this.
Vertical Lines is a new favorite book of mine.
I love this book. I love these characters. I have a strong feeling I'm going to love this series.
I'll be stalking the release of the next book and I will be sure to let you know all about it!

FIVE STARS!
Profile Image for Julianna K.
988 reviews
January 17, 2016
Jordana Richards has lived a privileged life, but inside this fantastic life there are certain rules that are set in place. She had to always follow these rules at an early age from what to wear, how you eat,what to say and how to act. Even though most people would think she’s stuck up because of her connections to wealth, she’s actually quiet down to earth and a bit naïve. Although she’s privileged she craved the freedom that other’s take for granted.

Brooklyn Novak is what you call a nurturer and from a young age he’s took care of other’s which also involved his mother and sister Ashton that suffer from “Body Dysmorphic Disorder”. The only way Brooklyn was able to take time for himself and left everything go was being able to put a pen, pencil or paintbrush on a canvas and draw whatever that came to him. For so many years that was his way of relaxation, but in the last three months he has his lost his creative drive. Poof. Nada for those three months…until he met her.

At the unlikely place Brooklyn has found his muse.
You could call it fate when Brooklyn and Jordan bump into each other more than once, but of course life is about to stick it’s nose where it doesn’t belong.

“Life’s not picky about who she slaps; the hit isn’t avoidable. I’ve learned that. It’s what we do in between blows that makes it worth it.”

There is something very unique that pulls you right into this story. Kristen Kehoe is a new author to me and let me tell you she’s an author you should watch for. From reading the synopsis of “Vertical Lines” I was intrigued, but when I started the book I was a prisoner (not that I minded). 



So many emotions flowed through me. This story is about two people who are completely opposites at first glance, but surprisingly have more in common then they would have guessed. I love that for this particular story the author went with dual point of views which intensified this story to a whole new level. She did an amazing job.

Reviewed on Behalf of Once Upon An Alpha
**ARC for an Honest Review**
Profile Image for Maria.
142 reviews48 followers
January 20, 2016
Once you've read something about the characters and plot of Vertical Lines, you discover it's nothing new to what romantic contemporary means, but since the first chapter I was hooked on it because of the female main character.

Kristen Kehoe wrote Vertical Lines with a double POV, each of which were the main characters, allowing a double perspective on the story. However, as much as I could relate to Jordana, I couldn't connect at all with Brooklyn. Perhaps it is because I have never been inside the mind of a man and I don't know what one can really feel, but it seemed more like a "perfectly imperfect man desired by all women" and less of a real man. I could get the desires and fears of Jordana, but I couldn't see Brooklyn's need to be with the girl which, by the way, I don't see as nice at all in a relationship, I think it could get to be very dangerous.

That was one of the main problems I had with the development of the plot, that need just didn't seem natural in a healthy relationship, and you can see it in the way it's portrayed in Jordan's POV, which is way gentler while Brooks is rougher. The other one is regarding the sex in the novel. I'm all up for written sex, but the fact that it took 20% of the book and it was all in the same place was just a bit tiring. I kept looking for plot progress but all I found was scene after scene of sex. I'd have liked it more if it was in different parts of it instead of condensed in just one.

I listed up there two aspect I didn't like about the novel, but I have to say I've fallen in love with it. I'd keep an eye on the "needing" topic, and perhaps split the sex in different scenes, but the richness of every character - even when I couldn't relate to them -, the nice writing of the author, almost poetic in some excerpts make The Vert Series a saga I'll definitelly continue.
Profile Image for Kendra Needs.
1,185 reviews12 followers
January 27, 2016
VERTICAL LINES by Kristen Kehoe was an amazingly beautiful book, that should be put to the top of your must reads for this year., this book is filled with honest to goodness true love between two real people.


The story in this book is very well written and very well developed, the plot is very fast paced and will pull at every one of your heart strings. The characters in this book have shot to the top of my most loved book characters, Brooks and Jordan are true hearts destined to be together, the cover of this book suits Jordan and Brooks perfectly.


Jordan has always lived her brothers shadows, he is perfect and can do no wrong, Jordan on the other hand can do no right in her mothers eyes. Finally deciding that she has had enough of her parents controlling ways she takes a stand walking away from them after dumping her brothers dinner plate in his lap, loved that. But can she really let go and become the women she was meant to be, strong, beautiful and confident? Brooks is a kind, gentle man and when he sees Jordan for the first time he fits her in with all the rich, snotty women that he has seen, not realizing the draw he will have to her. The friendship between Brooks and Jordan starts out as just that, a friendship, Jordan has become what Brooks needs in order to paint and draw. Little by little Jordan and Brooks have become what the other needs to survive. As in the real world all good things must come to and end, and Jordan and Brooks story is no different.


VERTICAL LINES by Kristen Kehoe will warn your heart, be ready to shed a few tears, and enjoy Brooks and Jordan's story. this was my first read by this author and cannot wait for the next book about Brooks' best friend Hunter. I would give VERTICAL LINES 5/5 stars.


Reviewed on behalf of Once Upon and Alpha
Profile Image for Linda.
119 reviews6 followers
January 21, 2016
I received this book in exchange for my honest review.

Vertical Lines is the first book I have read by Kristen Kehoe and I was pleasantly surprised about how much I enjoyed this book. Jordana Richards has lived a privileged life. Her mother has planned everything out for her. She went to the best high school, was told what college to go to, what clothes to wear and how to act. A moment of weakness leads her to dumping her plate on her brothers lap and then she runs out not wanting to face her parents disapproval. On her way back to college she stops by a store and a stranger walks up to her to take her picture. She is scared but realizes that was weird. She later meets this stranger, Brooklyn, because he is friends with her roommate. Spending time with Brooklyn she feels more like herself than any other time. He is an artist and uses her as a muse. When Brooklyn first saw Jordana he never imagined how inspirational she would really be. But when secrets come out can they both face they fact that nobody is perfect and following your dreams is true happiness.
I really enjoyed this book. We do get a back history of his friendship with Jordana's roommate and the struggles he and his friends have face. I would recommend this book.
Profile Image for Briana Pacheco.
Author 8 books163 followers
January 23, 2016
It's not every day I pick up a well-written novel dealing with some powerful issues. I have to say, this book has taken residence up in my heart. I honestly can't wait for Hunter's book next!

Jordan lives a very privileged life. But it's also a very sad one. She does what her parents want her to do. She's learned to speak and act a certain way since birth. She is not a rebel. Like...at all.

Until that moment she has had enough. My god, I loved Jordan's growth. I love what Brooklyn tries to help her see. I just love them together and I wish they were real so I could continue to be graced with their love story. ;) And can I get a round of applause for the beautiful specimen that is Brooklyn? Reading about his love for art, and envisioning what he's creating had me swooning and dying for pictures!

I loved the secondary characters as much as the main ones. Gah, how do I write my feelings down right now?!

Vertical Lines is a book that can't be explained easily. There is so much emotion and character growth happening throughout, it's hard to pinpoint what parts are my favorite. Once I get my head around this, I'll add more.

Complimentary copy provided by the author/publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
Profile Image for Kellsea.
121 reviews5 followers
February 4, 2016
Plans aren't the right choice

I liked this book. And I liked it because Jordana had a plan. A plan that didn't include not going to the college that she wanted. And because of her parents she was stuck at this small private school just to keep an eye on her older brother. But with the expectation of not expecting to love it there she does. The roommate and the friends she meets along the way make the choice that was taken out of her hand not that bad. She found a family. A true family that love e d her back the way she needed. Brooklyn I knew was going to be my favorite out of this story. From his name to his man bun I love Brooklyn. And although he looks like a classic football player the fact he was an artist made my heart melt. I think every woman needs a Brooklyn and Jordana was just the lucky girl. I can't wait for book number two. But to be honest. I'm waiting on Marcus.
694 reviews17 followers
January 20, 2016
I loved this book at the start. I loved the characters with a passion, I felt a connection through the art, and I sank deep into it. I still loved it half way through. But somewhere around two-thirds to three-quarters of the way through, I lost it. There was no defining moment or paragraph, no particular thing that made me lose interest, except that somehow what started out as showing me the story and making me feel it, became telling me about it and leaving me on the outside. I don't know if anyone else experienced this or if it was just me - I'm thinking by the number of 5 star reviews though it was just me. Maybe it was me that changed, and not the book. I don't know. Either way, it's worth trying just to experience those initial heady chapters. The slow burn between Jordan and Brooks is one of the most gratifying romances I've read in a long time.
Profile Image for Tara.
76 reviews
March 9, 2016
I really enjoyed this book. The beginning was awesome. I loved how Jordan got hers with her brother, despite it I guess being childish, but we all have those types of moments. I loved Brooks in this story. I think the author did a nice job with his character, he is the brooding artist who is an observer and I feel I really got to understand his character. Bother characters had hardships, and even though they were quite different, they were able to understand the other's thoughts and hardships. I also appreciate how the author was able to describe BDD. I appreciate authors who take the time to explain the diseases or disorders they use in their books and I feel that this author did. I will say never the end I wanted to knock Brooks around a bit but we all deal with loss differently. I look forward to the next book. Recommend this read.
Profile Image for Melinda.
2,144 reviews20 followers
May 16, 2016
**http://melenasreviews.wordpress.com**

Jordana and Brooklyn are two different people from two different worlds yet in some ways are both similar. Jordana has never had a life of her own. A life where she can have her own opinions, drink and eat whatever she wants and be whatever she wants to be. Meeting Brooks is making her see there is so much to life than just following rules. I loved how Kristin Kehoe shows us that no matter how much money you have or problems you dealing with you cannot control love. The feelings they have towards each other is sweet and beautiful the way they start their relationship it`s like hot and cold water mixing together. I loved that it wasn`t just about Jordana and Brooks but giving us glimpses of the other friends especially Nala and Mason. Can`t wait for what else is in store.
Profile Image for E.
69 reviews
January 9, 2016
Vertical Lines is the sweetest book I have ever read. You can't help but root for Jordana and Brooklyn and every other character. Jordana is the rich girl who has never really had the option to do whatever she wants, instead she's had her whole life planned out. While Brookyln is the complete opposite, an artist. I loved seeing Jordan learn to stand up for herself and truly began to to discover who she is and what she wants to do when she leaves for college. Brooklyn! Oh how he broke my heart. A guy who's used to saving everyone, especially his sick sister, and thinks he does not have any room for love. The love that grew between them was lovely to read about and I wish this book never ended!!

*ARC received through NetGalley
Profile Image for Kayla.
359 reviews
Read
May 31, 2016
Jordana is determined to make the most of her post high school life. But the harder she tried to fit in with the college kids the less she really did fit in. The night she walks out on her parents she meets Brooklyn. Brooklyn is out of art ideas and most of his subjects have no souls. Jordana is the the rich girl with a mission who has given Brooklyn that spark back he needs to create more art. They make a deal. The more time they spend together the more they realize that things are getting harder to deal with and when the truth comes to light it may break both of their worlds. They have to decide what they are willing to sacrifice. I like this book. It was good and had a good storyline. I enjoyed reading it and I would recommend it to my friends. I give it 4 out of 5 stars.
Profile Image for Sherley Marie.
175 reviews38 followers
January 17, 2016
I got this book because I had read The Light of Day by Kristen and I loved that book so much. I am determined to pick up everyone of her books at this point because her writing stirs so many feelings up inside of you. Her writing has propose and you see so much character development. I loved the characters of Brooklyn & Jordan and their back and forth conversations. They were just so much more then your basic convos they really helped the other understand what was going through their mind. I loved that Brooklyn found her intelligence the most attractive thing. I can't wait for Hunters story and please let there be a Malcolm and Nala one!!!!!!!
Profile Image for Jules.
173 reviews
December 18, 2015
This book was beautifully written. Vertical Lines is so much more than just a love story! This is a story of a girl finding her voice. Standing up for who she is and what she knows she can be. This is also a story of a man who has lost himself. Who’s taken care of those around him, and in the midst of tragedy is desperately trying to find his inspiration again. Kristin adds so much depth to these characters that the secondary characters were just as enjoyable to read about too. I was so happy to hear that Hunter will be getting his own story!
Profile Image for Sherry Haynes.
1,230 reviews16 followers
April 21, 2016
Gifted a copy in exchange for honest review:

When I started reading this book, I was expecting to read a hopeless insta-connection romance. What I found was so much more. I found family. I found that this story plot was about so much more than the relationship of Jordan and Brooks. It was about their families as well. It was self discovery, facing pasts, and letting go. Look forward to seeing where the author takes this series.
Profile Image for Melanie (mells_view).
1,939 reviews394 followers
July 28, 2016
Pretty good read!

This story was a love story wrapped around a story teaching you to love who you really are. I appreciated the message and the story that went with it made me shed some tears. The love story was romantic even though it started off a bit stalkery! It quickly develops into a friendship then into a relationship. Definitely excited to see what comes next for this group!
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