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Pieces of Him
You want the truth?
The truth is there’ll never be enough time in the world to figure out how to go back.
I’ll never come up with a way to change the outcome.
The truth is I don’t need to hear I have a son.
I can’t deny it’s real because he’s the living, breathing proof my life is out of control.
But the truth is I love him.
The truth is it’s just him and me for the foreseeable future…
Until I met a girl who crossed my heart and changed it all.
Emelia was a bright star in my abandoned sky, and it would take a miracle to keep her there.
I’ll fight for miracles, though, because losing them would mean losing pieces of me.
The truth is there’ll never be enough time in the world to figure out how to go back.
I’ll never come up with a way to change the outcome.
The truth is I don’t need to hear I have a son.
I can’t deny it’s real because he’s the living, breathing proof my life is out of control.
But the truth is I love him.
The truth is it’s just him and me for the foreseeable future…
Until I met a girl who crossed my heart and changed it all.
Emelia was a bright star in my abandoned sky, and it would take a miracle to keep her there.
I’ll fight for miracles, though, because losing them would mean losing pieces of me.
272 pages, Paperback
First published January 25, 2016
About the author
Alice Tribue
17 books704 followersAlice Tribue is a bestselling author of contemporary romance novels. She is currently living in New Jersey with her two children and spends as much of her free time as she can by the beach. She enjoys reading, writing, and an unhealthy addiction to coffee.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 191 reviews
March 1, 2016
4 Stars!!
“Pieces of Him” was sweet, emotional read that left me many times with a smile or a goofy grin on my face. If you’re a sucker for heartbreaking, yet heartwarming single parent romance novels then this book may work for you. I’ve read a few books with this premise, but where the single parent was the female main character. This one was a little different since the one who’s forced by circumstances to be a single parent is the hero and I have to say it was a nice change.
When Max, a thirty something man finds out his friend with benefits Keri is pregnant he freaks the hell out. He doesn’t need a kid or a girlfriend or more responsibilities. He tries to make Keri understand that he’s not ready to be a father, but Kerri wants to keep the baby no matter what. Max doesn’t know how to care for a baby or how to love him, so he’s convinced he will be the worst father ever. He scared sh*tless, but eventually he gets used with the idea. Everything changes for Max when something happens and he’s left alone with the baby.
Max is more than scared. He doesn’t what to be a father. He had plans and now everything is ruined. He didn’t want to do it with Kerri, let alone by himself. He seriously thinks the baby will be better with someone else so he consider finding a better home for his son.
Eventually Max decides to keep the baby for a little while. As the story progresses, Max realizes his baby is everything that matters, that he’s capable of love, that he loves him and wants to keep him.
Max meets Emelia, his neighbor and he is drawn to her immediately. Emilia is beautiful, kind and she really wants to help Max with the baby. She starts to spend a lot of time with both Max and the baby and very soon she falls in love with both of them. Max realizes that he wants more, that he deserves more, that he can be a better man, so he's ready to do anything to become the perfect man not only for his son, but also for Emelia.
Despite the subject matter this was a sweet, enjoyable read. The story is told from both main character’ perspective and for the most part was a fast-paced read which I enjoyed. Max’s character was really well done. I’m not gonna lie, in the beginning I wanted so badly to punch him in the face. He was the world’s biggest douchebag. But as the story progressed and he realized what matters the most he became a totally different man – sweet, caring, protective and tender. Needless to say I liked ‘new’ Max very much. His ‘transformation’ was done really well and felt believable, because let’s be honest here, a child can really change who you are. I really like to think that! His sweet moments with his baby boy were really heartwarming at times and I liked seeing Max becoming a responsible man who will do anything for his family.
Emelia was genuinely a good woman. In the beginning she got on my nerves a little, but just a little. Overall she was a nice portrayed character. She was mature for her age, responsible, thoughtful and so sweet and caring, both with Max and his baby. Her bond with Max’s baby was touching and their moments together were the cutest.
Max and Emelia’s relationship progressed naturally. At first they start a tentative friendship because both of them are drawn to the other, but as time passes they realize they are ready to try to be something more. Together they were really great and I loved the strong connection between them.
The story had a lot of potential to become an angst fest. Fortunately the angst is pretty low, which I appreciated. The drama is pretty low as well, but I have to say I found it really unnecessary.
I have to mention the awesome epilogue which I found very well done ans so enjoyable. I think it was my favorite aspect of the story. One of the best epilogues I’ve read in a while.
All in all, “Pieces of Him” was a sweet, entertaining well-paced story with a great storyline and well developed characters. I’m looking forward to read more by this author!
“Pieces of Him” was sweet, emotional read that left me many times with a smile or a goofy grin on my face. If you’re a sucker for heartbreaking, yet heartwarming single parent romance novels then this book may work for you. I’ve read a few books with this premise, but where the single parent was the female main character. This one was a little different since the one who’s forced by circumstances to be a single parent is the hero and I have to say it was a nice change.
When Max, a thirty something man finds out his friend with benefits Keri is pregnant he freaks the hell out. He doesn’t need a kid or a girlfriend or more responsibilities. He tries to make Keri understand that he’s not ready to be a father, but Kerri wants to keep the baby no matter what. Max doesn’t know how to care for a baby or how to love him, so he’s convinced he will be the worst father ever. He scared sh*tless, but eventually he gets used with the idea. Everything changes for Max when something happens and he’s left alone with the baby.
“What would happen if I didn’t put my name down on that paper? If I didn’t claim my own son? What kind of man would that make me?”
Max is more than scared. He doesn’t what to be a father. He had plans and now everything is ruined. He didn’t want to do it with Kerri, let alone by himself. He seriously thinks the baby will be better with someone else so he consider finding a better home for his son.
“I’m as lost as I’ve ever been. So lost I might never find my way out.”
Eventually Max decides to keep the baby for a little while. As the story progresses, Max realizes his baby is everything that matters, that he’s capable of love, that he loves him and wants to keep him.
Max meets Emelia, his neighbor and he is drawn to her immediately. Emilia is beautiful, kind and she really wants to help Max with the baby. She starts to spend a lot of time with both Max and the baby and very soon she falls in love with both of them. Max realizes that he wants more, that he deserves more, that he can be a better man, so he's ready to do anything to become the perfect man not only for his son, but also for Emelia.
“She’s the one I was meant to make mine. I believe it down to the bottom of my soul. A part of me knew it four months ago, and I absolutely know it now.”
Despite the subject matter this was a sweet, enjoyable read. The story is told from both main character’ perspective and for the most part was a fast-paced read which I enjoyed. Max’s character was really well done. I’m not gonna lie, in the beginning I wanted so badly to punch him in the face. He was the world’s biggest douchebag. But as the story progressed and he realized what matters the most he became a totally different man – sweet, caring, protective and tender. Needless to say I liked ‘new’ Max very much. His ‘transformation’ was done really well and felt believable, because let’s be honest here, a child can really change who you are. I really like to think that! His sweet moments with his baby boy were really heartwarming at times and I liked seeing Max becoming a responsible man who will do anything for his family.
Emelia was genuinely a good woman. In the beginning she got on my nerves a little, but just a little. Overall she was a nice portrayed character. She was mature for her age, responsible, thoughtful and so sweet and caring, both with Max and his baby. Her bond with Max’s baby was touching and their moments together were the cutest.
Max and Emelia’s relationship progressed naturally. At first they start a tentative friendship because both of them are drawn to the other, but as time passes they realize they are ready to try to be something more. Together they were really great and I loved the strong connection between them.
The story had a lot of potential to become an angst fest. Fortunately the angst is pretty low, which I appreciated. The drama is pretty low as well, but I have to say I found it really unnecessary.
I have to mention the awesome epilogue which I found very well done ans so enjoyable. I think it was my favorite aspect of the story. One of the best epilogues I’ve read in a while.
All in all, “Pieces of Him” was a sweet, entertaining well-paced story with a great storyline and well developed characters. I’m looking forward to read more by this author!
October 25, 2016
4 Stars
This was a super cute, super solid read and I really enjoyed it.
The H starts out a HUGE asshole and you really want to punch him in the face.
Or somewhere even better.
But fear not, he redeems himself.
And first, I wasn't really on board with the story line.
Because, idiot that I am, I did NOT read the blurb all the way through and/or somehow misunderstood it.
Because, sometimes?
AIRHEAD.
So when they killed off baby mama, who I oh so incorrectly assumed was the h...?
I was, needless to say, verra confusado.
And sad, verra sad.
I actually cried.
Okay, that's a total fucking lie.
But I did express a relatively appropriate level of book horror.
It went something like this:
And that lasted at least a full 5 seconds before I was distracted by something else.
In this case, the heroine and the UBER cute relationship between the H and his newborn son.
THAT alone was worth its weight in gold.
But anyway, like I said, this was a super cute, sweet story - with some sadz that might make normal, non black-hearted people cry - and I would recommend it to anyone.
Find me at:
This was a super cute, super solid read and I really enjoyed it.
The H starts out a HUGE asshole and you really want to punch him in the face.
Or somewhere even better.
But fear not, he redeems himself.
And first, I wasn't really on board with the story line.
Because, idiot that I am, I did NOT read the blurb all the way through and/or somehow misunderstood it.
Because, sometimes?
AIRHEAD.
So when they killed off baby mama, who I oh so incorrectly assumed was the h...?
I was, needless to say, verra confusado.
And sad, verra sad.
I actually cried.
Okay, that's a total fucking lie.
But I did express a relatively appropriate level of book horror.
It went something like this:
And that lasted at least a full 5 seconds before I was distracted by something else.
In this case, the heroine and the UBER cute relationship between the H and his newborn son.
THAT alone was worth its weight in gold.
But anyway, like I said, this was a super cute, sweet story - with some sadz that might make normal, non black-hearted people cry - and I would recommend it to anyone.
Find me at:
February 26, 2016
4.5 STARS
”There is nothing here to love. Nothing worth loving. I’m an asshole, and I’ve never hidden that from her.”
WOW! I stayed up so late last night just inhaling page after page of this book. It was so well done and engaging. The author completely nailed her take on a douche becoming a father and slowly learning how to love his son and a partner in life. From the first chapter I was like no way this guy is a total asshole!! Max Castillo is hot, hardworking and doesn’t know how to love or even care to. He has been sleeping with the same woman, Keri for the past two years, yet she’s nothing more than sex to him and he’s seriously true to his word when she tells him she’s pregnant.
”You have some fairy tale, fantasy bullshit running through your head and you need to stop it. Let it go. We’re never gonna be about white picket fences, you and me. That’s not how this is going to end.”
Max is a true honest to his bones believable work in progress type of hero. His POV was so real. His fears and his adamant lack of love for Keri and his thought process was so harsh yet perfectly true to his character. The story then takes a horrific turn and Max is left with a child he didn’t want.
”Keri sacrificed herself for Xander. She gave up her own life so he could have his, and she gave that to me. She gave me a son, whether I wanted him or not. Whether I was ready for him or not, he’s here now. He’s here, and I have to give him the life she wanted for him. That’s my responsibility. It’s the only way to give her back what she gave me. It’s fucked up and pisses me off, but I don’t have a choice.”
Max struggles with wanting to flee and abandoning his son. With the nudge of an amazing nurse, a cool boss and his new neighbor Emelia Masters, he tries to be a father to his son to give him the life that Keri so wanted him to have. Max and Emelia’s friendship to romance was well done and his fall into actual love for her was perfectly written.
”Why do I feel this way? Why her? What is it about her that makes me want her? She’s different than Keri was. Definitely more independent, and I like that about her, but that’s not it… Maybe it’s the way she’ll go head to head with me or anyone else if she feels they’re doing wrong? Maybe it’s just as simple as her smile? I don’t have the answer. All I know is she’s the first girl I ever wanted to keep.”
[image error]
Emelia becomes attached to this father son duo through time spent helping them out. When Max lays out his true intentions for them she can’t help but question what will happen if it falls apart yet she’s already in too far with both Castillo men.
”Catastrophic or not, I want it. I’ll take whatever pieces of him I can get and hope that it’s enough. I’ll hope it’s not temporary and that the promise of him lives up to the daydream.”
The love that these three share was great but I so wish this was an ARC or Beta read. I wish I could press the author to remove the so not needed additional plot that sadly is the reason I couldn’t give this story a full 5 Stars. The not needed stalker, kidnapper ex of Emelia just didn’t’ fit. For me it ruined the flow, took away from the story for drama for the sake of drama. Nevertheless, Max’s journey and transformation was SO well done and his fall into love with his son and Emelia didn’t need anything else. Once the whole ex situation was over I was so glad I was able to get back on track with the trio and embrace their future and the epilogue… PERFECTION!
”Funny how life has a way of working out sometimes. How it gives you exactly what you need even when you’re so resistant.”
”There is nothing here to love. Nothing worth loving. I’m an asshole, and I’ve never hidden that from her.”
WOW! I stayed up so late last night just inhaling page after page of this book. It was so well done and engaging. The author completely nailed her take on a douche becoming a father and slowly learning how to love his son and a partner in life. From the first chapter I was like no way this guy is a total asshole!! Max Castillo is hot, hardworking and doesn’t know how to love or even care to. He has been sleeping with the same woman, Keri for the past two years, yet she’s nothing more than sex to him and he’s seriously true to his word when she tells him she’s pregnant.
”You have some fairy tale, fantasy bullshit running through your head and you need to stop it. Let it go. We’re never gonna be about white picket fences, you and me. That’s not how this is going to end.”
Max is a true honest to his bones believable work in progress type of hero. His POV was so real. His fears and his adamant lack of love for Keri and his thought process was so harsh yet perfectly true to his character. The story then takes a horrific turn and Max is left with a child he didn’t want.
”Keri sacrificed herself for Xander. She gave up her own life so he could have his, and she gave that to me. She gave me a son, whether I wanted him or not. Whether I was ready for him or not, he’s here now. He’s here, and I have to give him the life she wanted for him. That’s my responsibility. It’s the only way to give her back what she gave me. It’s fucked up and pisses me off, but I don’t have a choice.”
Max struggles with wanting to flee and abandoning his son. With the nudge of an amazing nurse, a cool boss and his new neighbor Emelia Masters, he tries to be a father to his son to give him the life that Keri so wanted him to have. Max and Emelia’s friendship to romance was well done and his fall into actual love for her was perfectly written.
”Why do I feel this way? Why her? What is it about her that makes me want her? She’s different than Keri was. Definitely more independent, and I like that about her, but that’s not it… Maybe it’s the way she’ll go head to head with me or anyone else if she feels they’re doing wrong? Maybe it’s just as simple as her smile? I don’t have the answer. All I know is she’s the first girl I ever wanted to keep.”
[image error]
Emelia becomes attached to this father son duo through time spent helping them out. When Max lays out his true intentions for them she can’t help but question what will happen if it falls apart yet she’s already in too far with both Castillo men.
”Catastrophic or not, I want it. I’ll take whatever pieces of him I can get and hope that it’s enough. I’ll hope it’s not temporary and that the promise of him lives up to the daydream.”
The love that these three share was great but I so wish this was an ARC or Beta read. I wish I could press the author to remove the so not needed additional plot that sadly is the reason I couldn’t give this story a full 5 Stars. The not needed stalker, kidnapper ex of Emelia just didn’t’ fit. For me it ruined the flow, took away from the story for drama for the sake of drama. Nevertheless, Max’s journey and transformation was SO well done and his fall into love with his son and Emelia didn’t need anything else. Once the whole ex situation was over I was so glad I was able to get back on track with the trio and embrace their future and the epilogue… PERFECTION!
”Funny how life has a way of working out sometimes. How it gives you exactly what you need even when you’re so resistant.”
March 1, 2016
Such a cute read, and that epilogue was wonderful. An asshole falling in love, not only with the heroine, but with his son, made for such a sweet read. I enjoyed this one :)
October 12, 2017
4.5 Stars
O-M-G This book!!
This book was seriously AWESOME. It wasn't filled with unnecessary drama or stupid OW angst. It was filled with REAL characters reacting and ultimately GROWING as adults would.
Max was an ass, a big "I WANT TO SMACK YOU IN THE FACE" ass in the beginning. I didn't like him. I don't think you are supposed to like him, because if you did, then the transformation he makes over the course of this book looses its punch. But transform he did, he grew, he matured. This book was SO much more than a romance between Max and Emelia; it was about a man facing his responsibilities and falling in love with his son. I'd also like to make clear that Max was in noway a man-whore in this book. He had a monogamous FB relationship with Keri for two years. I also want to make it 110% clear that for not even A SECOND is it implied the heroine is second best. There is NO DOUBT that Emelia is the love of Max's life and Xander's mother, NONE. She is just as on-board with keeping
Emelia was a brilliant heroine; she was strong and mature. I loved that there was very little angst between Max and her. I also love the way that the Keri situation was handled I also loved that the author didn't make Keri out to be this horrible bitch, and although Max never loved her, he was genuinely fond of her.
Note about the abortion thing. That is the first, last and ONLY time that ending the pregnancy is brought up.
And that Epilogue...OMG, I was bawling like a baby! I don't know what else to say, other then I am SO glad I had the chance to read this one. I am definitely going to check out other books by this author.
O-M-G This book!!
This book was seriously AWESOME. It wasn't filled with unnecessary drama or stupid OW angst. It was filled with REAL characters reacting and ultimately GROWING as adults would.
Max was an ass, a big "I WANT TO SMACK YOU IN THE FACE" ass in the beginning. I didn't like him. I don't think you are supposed to like him, because if you did, then the transformation he makes over the course of this book looses its punch. But transform he did, he grew, he matured. This book was SO much more than a romance between Max and Emelia; it was about a man facing his responsibilities and falling in love with his son. I'd also like to make clear that Max was in noway a man-whore in this book. He had a monogamous FB relationship with Keri for two years. I also want to make it 110% clear that for not even A SECOND is it implied the heroine is second best. There is NO DOUBT that Emelia is the love of Max's life and Xander's mother, NONE. She is just as on-board with keeping
Emelia was a brilliant heroine; she was strong and mature. I loved that there was very little angst between Max and her. I also love the way that the Keri situation was handled I also loved that the author didn't make Keri out to be this horrible bitch, and although Max never loved her, he was genuinely fond of her.
Note about the abortion thing. That is the first, last and ONLY time that ending the pregnancy is brought up.
And that Epilogue...OMG, I was bawling like a baby! I don't know what else to say, other then I am SO glad I had the chance to read this one. I am definitely going to check out other books by this author.
January 9, 2017
4 "Family isn't always blood" Stars!
"Pieces of Him" was my first book in 2017. It was a sweet read with lots of emotional baggage. I really quite enjoyed it and often times found myself smiling at some scenes. I love books about unexpected pregnancy etc. and when I found this book in my bookshelf I knew I had to jump right in.
So this book follows Max, who just found out that his friends with benefits "girlfriend" is pregnant. Saying that he didn't take it well is an understatement. The way he saw it was that him and Keri had shitty parents so what the hell do they know about child caregiving. He has lots of responsibilities and kids is the last thing on his mind. He kept going on with the idea that he would be a bad father, that he's not cut out for this.
I didn't know how to love....
Something happens and Max finds himself alone with Xander, his baby. He was very adamant about not taking care of him and giving him up. I won't lie, during this time he pissed me off badly. I mean I get that he was scared but he was acting like a self-centered jackass.
I don't know how to do this...I don't want to do this...
Emelia moved to a different state to get away from her own baggage. She is Max's new neighbor. They had a very..rocky start. Lets just say that Emelia pulled the stick that was up in Max's ass.
Soon she starts spending time and helping with Xander. She also starts getting close with Max. I loved the sweet romance between them two.
All I knew is she's the first girl I've ever wanted to keep.
This was so such a lovely read. I liked the heroine and how even though Max was a complete stranger at first she still stood up to him. And even though I was unsure about Max in the beginning he rubbed off on me. He turned out to be an amazing father and I was really proud of him and the progresses he've made.
This is my first book by this author and I really enjoyed it. I'll definitely be reading more of her books. This book was really good and had the perfect balance of everything. It was witty, emotional, cute and the perfect blend of steam. I would totally recommend it if you ever feel like you just need that one laid back book. You know those days. Overall, Amazingly sweet.
"Pieces of Him" was my first book in 2017. It was a sweet read with lots of emotional baggage. I really quite enjoyed it and often times found myself smiling at some scenes. I love books about unexpected pregnancy etc. and when I found this book in my bookshelf I knew I had to jump right in.
So this book follows Max, who just found out that his friends with benefits "girlfriend" is pregnant. Saying that he didn't take it well is an understatement. The way he saw it was that him and Keri had shitty parents so what the hell do they know about child caregiving. He has lots of responsibilities and kids is the last thing on his mind. He kept going on with the idea that he would be a bad father, that he's not cut out for this.
I didn't know how to love....
Something happens and Max finds himself alone with Xander, his baby. He was very adamant about not taking care of him and giving him up. I won't lie, during this time he pissed me off badly. I mean I get that he was scared but he was acting like a self-centered jackass.
I don't know how to do this...I don't want to do this...
Emelia moved to a different state to get away from her own baggage. She is Max's new neighbor. They had a very..rocky start. Lets just say that Emelia pulled the stick that was up in Max's ass.
Soon she starts spending time and helping with Xander. She also starts getting close with Max. I loved the sweet romance between them two.
All I knew is she's the first girl I've ever wanted to keep.
This was so such a lovely read. I liked the heroine and how even though Max was a complete stranger at first she still stood up to him. And even though I was unsure about Max in the beginning he rubbed off on me. He turned out to be an amazing father and I was really proud of him and the progresses he've made.
This is my first book by this author and I really enjoyed it. I'll definitely be reading more of her books. This book was really good and had the perfect balance of everything. It was witty, emotional, cute and the perfect blend of steam. I would totally recommend it if you ever feel like you just need that one laid back book. You know those days. Overall, Amazingly sweet.
January 19, 2016
༺**Complimentary Copy**༺ Provided by the author
"Alice Montalvo-Tribue" in exchange for an honest review..Thank you!!
TITLE: Pieces of Him
AUTHOR: Alice Montalvo-Tribue
GENRE: Contemporary Romance
RELEASE DATE: January 25th 2016
MY RATING: 4 STARS
This will be my first time reading something by this author
So here I am reading this without having any idea what's going to come at me when BAM and here I am sitting with a wtf expression on my face because even the synopsis doesn't give anything away..
Holy Heck
MAX: He's kind of a dick in the beginning, but in his defense he did lay his cards out on the table during their little arrangement but still a dick how he spoke to her, I'm crossing everything that as the story enfolds he redeems himself..And he does!! The regrets Max experienced through his ordeal made him more human and more tolerable to life's curve-balls, he learn't to treasure the small things and not take anything for granted because we're never promised tomorrow..Max had a lot of growing up to do in this book, things that were out of his control made him step up and be the best person he could be, his up bringing didn't define the person he became..
You knew what this was between us from the jump. This was supposed to be about fun. That's it. No f*cking strings - no f*cking commitments.
Pieces Of Him: This is very easy to get into, straight away you are pulled into the story, your heart breaks just a tiny bit in the beginning and you hope against all odds that he chooses to step up to the plate instead of taking the easier option, of giving up what's his..Spoken in dual POV..I must say that this was so beautifully written and touched me on an emotional level towards the end, a touching story that was so believable..
I've never wanted to have more than a casual relationship, but getting older and having a child makes me look at everything differently.
Bugger it all you do kind of start warming to Max's character a few chapters in..Was a dick now not so much!!
How the f*ck did this happen.
Emilia: Sick of being under her controlling mothers thumb Emilia moves away from home, gets a job as a social worker and sets herself up in an apartment beside the delectable Max and his son newborn Xander..I loved her character she never backed down to Max, always gave him a few home truths which made for a turbulent first meeting..
A good man exists somewhere underneath the attitude he exudes.
"Alice Montalvo-Tribue" in exchange for an honest review..Thank you!!
TITLE: Pieces of Him
AUTHOR: Alice Montalvo-Tribue
GENRE: Contemporary Romance
RELEASE DATE: January 25th 2016
MY RATING: 4 STARS
This will be my first time reading something by this author
So here I am reading this without having any idea what's going to come at me when BAM and here I am sitting with a wtf expression on my face because even the synopsis doesn't give anything away..
Holy Heck
MAX: He's kind of a dick in the beginning, but in his defense he did lay his cards out on the table during their little arrangement but still a dick how he spoke to her, I'm crossing everything that as the story enfolds he redeems himself..And he does!! The regrets Max experienced through his ordeal made him more human and more tolerable to life's curve-balls, he learn't to treasure the small things and not take anything for granted because we're never promised tomorrow..Max had a lot of growing up to do in this book, things that were out of his control made him step up and be the best person he could be, his up bringing didn't define the person he became..
You knew what this was between us from the jump. This was supposed to be about fun. That's it. No f*cking strings - no f*cking commitments.
Pieces Of Him: This is very easy to get into, straight away you are pulled into the story, your heart breaks just a tiny bit in the beginning and you hope against all odds that he chooses to step up to the plate instead of taking the easier option, of giving up what's his..Spoken in dual POV..I must say that this was so beautifully written and touched me on an emotional level towards the end, a touching story that was so believable..
I've never wanted to have more than a casual relationship, but getting older and having a child makes me look at everything differently.
Bugger it all you do kind of start warming to Max's character a few chapters in..Was a dick now not so much!!
How the f*ck did this happen.
Emilia: Sick of being under her controlling mothers thumb Emilia moves away from home, gets a job as a social worker and sets herself up in an apartment beside the delectable Max and his son newborn Xander..I loved her character she never backed down to Max, always gave him a few home truths which made for a turbulent first meeting..
A good man exists somewhere underneath the attitude he exudes.
March 20, 2016
"4 SwEeT stars"
"I'm giving you one night to decide."
"Decide what?"
"Whether you want to be mine or not."
This book was a NICE surprise!
I really enjoyed it!I liked the storyline you know enough NOT to bitch about it to you which is a HUGE thing for me!
Just kidding I have a few things to complain about,otherwise it wouldn't be me!Right....???
All I know is she's the first girl I've ever wanted to keep.
Let's get started shall we?
Once upon a time there was Max a cocky bastard who only cared about himself and who would be his next fuck buddy until his fuck buddy gets pregnant AnD that meant the end of the world for him at least.He didn't want the baby and especially when he became a single parent!So he decided to keep the baby for a while until he find a family to adopt him.
See an Asshole!
Until a knock on the door...started to change everything...
Then there was Emelia who was shy and very insecure trying to find herself!She left her rich house because of her Bitch of a mother.She moved in the apartment across from Max and little baby boy Xander.She was an ok heroine for me although sometimes she made some stupid mistakes whish irritated me but nothing serious.So I let it go!
She's the one I was meant to make mine.
Max and Emelia started as friends and her helping him with the baby who she loved and adored!I really liked the fact that Max started to be the father he never had,slowly caring for the baby and Xander became his first priority.The baby was just adorable!I liked that Emelia became a mother for this little chubby baby!They were so cute together.They made a sweet family together!There was a bit of a drama in the end which I would be still ok if it didn't happen!I got really emotional about the real mother of the baby it was bittersweet and there were times I was fighting back tears for her!
They had some HOT HOT HOT sex!Don't get fooled by Emelia being shy because let me tell you the minute she was alone with Max the shyness flew out the window....
"Are you nice and wet for me baby?We might have to invest in some more toys.I'd like to do a lot of things to you when you're all tied up like this for me."
"Baby."
"Yeah?"
"Fuck me."
"Ask me again and make it nice."
"Fuck me,baby,please."
"I love you."
"You do?"
"I fucking do."
"I fucking love you too."
Enjoy!xxx
"I'm giving you one night to decide."
"Decide what?"
"Whether you want to be mine or not."
This book was a NICE surprise!
I really enjoyed it!I liked the storyline you know enough NOT to bitch about it to you which is a HUGE thing for me!
Just kidding I have a few things to complain about,otherwise it wouldn't be me!Right....???
All I know is she's the first girl I've ever wanted to keep.
Let's get started shall we?
Once upon a time there was Max a cocky bastard who only cared about himself and who would be his next fuck buddy until his fuck buddy gets pregnant AnD that meant the end of the world for him at least.He didn't want the baby and especially when he became a single parent!So he decided to keep the baby for a while until he find a family to adopt him.
See an Asshole!
Until a knock on the door...started to change everything...
Then there was Emelia who was shy and very insecure trying to find herself!She left her rich house because of her Bitch of a mother.She moved in the apartment across from Max and little baby boy Xander.She was an ok heroine for me although sometimes she made some stupid mistakes whish irritated me but nothing serious.So I let it go!
She's the one I was meant to make mine.
Max and Emelia started as friends and her helping him with the baby who she loved and adored!I really liked the fact that Max started to be the father he never had,slowly caring for the baby and Xander became his first priority.The baby was just adorable!I liked that Emelia became a mother for this little chubby baby!They were so cute together.They made a sweet family together!There was a bit of a drama in the end which I would be still ok if it didn't happen!I got really emotional about the real mother of the baby it was bittersweet and there were times I was fighting back tears for her!
They had some HOT HOT HOT sex!Don't get fooled by Emelia being shy because let me tell you the minute she was alone with Max the shyness flew out the window....
"Are you nice and wet for me baby?We might have to invest in some more toys.I'd like to do a lot of things to you when you're all tied up like this for me."
"Baby."
"Yeah?"
"Fuck me."
"Ask me again and make it nice."
"Fuck me,baby,please."
"I love you."
"You do?"
"I fucking do."
"I fucking love you too."
Enjoy!xxx
March 29, 2016
3.5 ★'s
From reading the blurb, I was hoping this would be an angsty book but I just didn't get that feeling. Yes, it starts out sad but overall, it's a really sweet story about a jerk becoming a father and falling in love...some things he never thought he wanted or needed.
Max has a tough road ahead of him but luckily he finds help in all the right places especially one named Emelia. Emelia is looking for some sustenance in her life and she finds it in spades. I loved seeing them fall in love and their connection to Xander was super sweet.
There's some drama that you can see coming a mile away but it was necessary to help move things along and help everything wrap up wonderfully.
And can we talk about that epilogue? This is my first Alice Montalvo-Tribue book and if her other epilogues are like this one, I will definitely gobble them up!
Favorite quote:
♥ "You and Xander are my home."
From reading the blurb, I was hoping this would be an angsty book but I just didn't get that feeling. Yes, it starts out sad but overall, it's a really sweet story about a jerk becoming a father and falling in love...some things he never thought he wanted or needed.
Max has a tough road ahead of him but luckily he finds help in all the right places especially one named Emelia. Emelia is looking for some sustenance in her life and she finds it in spades. I loved seeing them fall in love and their connection to Xander was super sweet.
There's some drama that you can see coming a mile away but it was necessary to help move things along and help everything wrap up wonderfully.
And can we talk about that epilogue? This is my first Alice Montalvo-Tribue book and if her other epilogues are like this one, I will definitely gobble them up!
Favorite quote:
♥ "You and Xander are my home."
September 18, 2016
Oh my God!! I loved, loved, loved this book. We start this story finding out that the woman that Max has been in a sexual relationship with for 2 years is pregnant. That's all that their relationship is...sex. To him anyways. I think she may have developed stronger feelings for him and she does hint at this a bit but he shuts that down real quick. Max does care about her in a way though, the only way he knows how because honestly, Max is an asshole in the beginning of this book.
Nine months later, Max's son is born and he has to raise Xander on his own. He's doesn't even really want to be a Dad at this point and it was a little tough to read. Honestly though, after his upbringing I kind of understood where he was coming from. He didn't think he could provide the right kind of home and love that a child needs. Max at this point is pretty much just a self absorbed jerk and he knows it.
Enter Emelia. She moves in across the hall from Max and immediately calls him on his shit. She does what no other has done and lets him know what a selfish asshole he's being.
As time goes on they begin a tentative friendship and Emelia helps him care for Xander. Of course Emelia falls for Xander and Max wants more with her but fears that a single dad is not what she needs. Eventually he gives in and asks for more and so starts their love story.
And let me just say how sweet it was. Max has never had to care about anyone else and now he has two someones to care about. And he was fantastic at it.
I have many more quotes and highlights. This was one of the most amazing turnarounds I have seen a character make in a book. I really did not like Max in the beginning. I didn't think he could be redeemed and for some that may be true. All I know was that he needed Xander and Emelia to crack the cold shell around his heart.
By the end of this book there is not one thing cold about Max. The family these two build is beautiful and amazing. The life they give Xander is nothing short of spectacular. We get an amazing epilogue to end this story and me being the epilogue whore that I am, it solidified the 5 stars for me. I will definitely be reading more from this author.
Nine months later, Max's son is born and he has to raise Xander on his own. He's doesn't even really want to be a Dad at this point and it was a little tough to read. Honestly though, after his upbringing I kind of understood where he was coming from. He didn't think he could provide the right kind of home and love that a child needs. Max at this point is pretty much just a self absorbed jerk and he knows it.
Enter Emelia. She moves in across the hall from Max and immediately calls him on his shit. She does what no other has done and lets him know what a selfish asshole he's being.
“I said, maybe you should give him away. A kid should have a parent who loves him, not someone who can’t be bothered to love him, someone who’ll just tolerate him. That beautiful baby deserves more than that.”
As time goes on they begin a tentative friendship and Emelia helps him care for Xander. Of course Emelia falls for Xander and Max wants more with her but fears that a single dad is not what she needs. Eventually he gives in and asks for more and so starts their love story.
"When she whimpers for me, it’s like an invisible rope being thrown around me and tugging me in, cementing this connection between us. None of my bullshit reasons or excuses matter anymore. Emelia is life, and I’m taking every piece of her that she’ll let me have."
And let me just say how sweet it was. Max has never had to care about anyone else and now he has two someones to care about. And he was fantastic at it.
“You have me now, baby. I’m not going anywhere.” “You promise?” “I promise.” And I mean it. I mean every word I say to this girl because she’s a game changer. She’s the girl I was meant to find someday. I feel that shit like I feel the beating of my own heart. She’s the reason I never took any other girl seriously. She’s the reason I couldn’t let myself love Keri. She’s the one I was meant to make mine."
I have many more quotes and highlights. This was one of the most amazing turnarounds I have seen a character make in a book. I really did not like Max in the beginning. I didn't think he could be redeemed and for some that may be true. All I know was that he needed Xander and Emelia to crack the cold shell around his heart.
“You have to understand, baby. My mom left when I was young and you already know that my father was a dick. That’s all I knew growing up; it’s all I had. I never had a gentle touch, someone to take care of my scrapes and bruises, or make sure I had food in my stomach. No one gave a shit if I went to school or did my homework or went to bed at a decent time. I’m cold because all I ever got was cold.”
By the end of this book there is not one thing cold about Max. The family these two build is beautiful and amazing. The life they give Xander is nothing short of spectacular. We get an amazing epilogue to end this story and me being the epilogue whore that I am, it solidified the 5 stars for me. I will definitely be reading more from this author.
“It doesn’t matter if I’m across the hall or here, or in a new house, you and Xander are my home.”
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 7, 2022
I'm going to try this again since somehow my first review was removed :/
4 stars
Overall Opinion: This was a sweet read. I feel like it was a lot about Max's journey in becoming the man he was meant to be. We first get him when he is a selfish and cold bachelor, but he turns into a sweet and loving family man in the end. I really liked Emelia, and she was just what Max needed to see the err in his ways and make the effort to change. Some might have issues with the sex scene with the mother of his child at the beginning, but this is months before he meets the h and he wasn't a manwhore in any way because he was monogamous with this f-buddy for 2 years (I still think we could've done without it, but I personally didn't find it all that bothersome). Not fully defending him though -- he was a major a-hole, but just know that he makes the necessary changes to grow and be a better man. I love interactions with kids in books, and this book really did have some sweet moments.
Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Emelia and Max's story. Max's world gets turned upside down when his f-buddy of 2 years announces that she's pregnant. He is scared because he didn't have the best upbringing and doesn't feel like he has anything to offer the child, but eventually goes along with the idea of coparenting. After some unfortunate events, Max finds himself a single dad. He is really struggling with this idea and bumps into his new neighbor, Emelia. She puts him in his place for being a jerk, and the rest is history. They start a friendship of sorts that turn romantic and they fall in love. There is some family and ex drama, some sexy times, and some sweet moments...but they get their HEA ending.
POV: This alternated between Emelia and Max's POV.
Overall Pace of Story: Good. It had good flow, and I never felt the need to skim. The only criticism I would have is it ended at 91% on my kindle app (and that was with a long epilogue starting at 87%). Granted -- I've had it much worse before, but I always hate it when it ends before ~ 100%. FYI - there are some time jumps for those that don't like that, but I didn't feel like they disrupted the flow.
instalove: Instalust for sure, but I felt like their feelings had sufficient development.
H rating: 4 stars. Max. Man, he was hard to like at first. He was a mess for sure, and he said some nasty things because he was afraid. I did end up liking him though. He really worked on being better for both Xander and Emelia.
h rating: 4.5 stars. Emelia. I really liked her. She had a good heart and I loved how she didn't let Max be a jerk and put him in his place. The way she stepped up and loved Xander was too sweet.
Sadness level: Low. There is a sad scene, but I never needed any tissues because I hadn't connected with the OW.
Heat level: Moderate. They have some good chemistry and scenes.
Descriptive sex: Yes
Safe sex: Yes and no. The mother of the H's child told him she was on birth control, and they were in a monogamous relationship so they didn't use condoms. She failed to tell him she messed up her pills, and ended up pregnant. With the h there is mention of condom use, but then there is not -- and no discussion about birth control or std status that I remember.
OW/OM drama: Yes, but for the h not the H.
Sex scene with OW or OM: Yes
Cheating: No
Possible Triggers: Yes
Closure: This had one of the best epilogues I've read in a while. I would call this a HEA ending for sure.
How I got it: It was part of my kindle unlimited subscription.
Safety: Safe with exception
4 stars
Overall Opinion: This was a sweet read. I feel like it was a lot about Max's journey in becoming the man he was meant to be. We first get him when he is a selfish and cold bachelor, but he turns into a sweet and loving family man in the end. I really liked Emelia, and she was just what Max needed to see the err in his ways and make the effort to change. Some might have issues with the sex scene with the mother of his child at the beginning, but this is months before he meets the h and he wasn't a manwhore in any way because he was monogamous with this f-buddy for 2 years (I still think we could've done without it, but I personally didn't find it all that bothersome). Not fully defending him though -- he was a major a-hole, but just know that he makes the necessary changes to grow and be a better man. I love interactions with kids in books, and this book really did have some sweet moments.
Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Emelia and Max's story. Max's world gets turned upside down when his f-buddy of 2 years announces that she's pregnant. He is scared because he didn't have the best upbringing and doesn't feel like he has anything to offer the child, but eventually goes along with the idea of coparenting. After some unfortunate events, Max finds himself a single dad. He is really struggling with this idea and bumps into his new neighbor, Emelia. She puts him in his place for being a jerk, and the rest is history. They start a friendship of sorts that turn romantic and they fall in love. There is some family and ex drama, some sexy times, and some sweet moments...but they get their HEA ending.
POV: This alternated between Emelia and Max's POV.
Overall Pace of Story: Good. It had good flow, and I never felt the need to skim. The only criticism I would have is it ended at 91% on my kindle app (and that was with a long epilogue starting at 87%). Granted -- I've had it much worse before, but I always hate it when it ends before ~ 100%. FYI - there are some time jumps for those that don't like that, but I didn't feel like they disrupted the flow.
instalove: Instalust for sure, but I felt like their feelings had sufficient development.
H rating: 4 stars. Max. Man, he was hard to like at first. He was a mess for sure, and he said some nasty things because he was afraid. I did end up liking him though. He really worked on being better for both Xander and Emelia.
h rating: 4.5 stars. Emelia. I really liked her. She had a good heart and I loved how she didn't let Max be a jerk and put him in his place. The way she stepped up and loved Xander was too sweet.
Sadness level: Low. There is a sad scene, but I never needed any tissues because I hadn't connected with the OW.
Heat level: Moderate. They have some good chemistry and scenes.
Descriptive sex: Yes
Safe sex: Yes and no. The mother of the H's child told him she was on birth control, and they were in a monogamous relationship so they didn't use condoms. She failed to tell him she messed up her pills, and ended up pregnant. With the h there is mention of condom use, but then there is not -- and no discussion about birth control or std status that I remember.
OW/OM drama: Yes, but for the h not the H.
Sex scene with OW or OM: Yes
Cheating: No
Possible Triggers: Yes
Closure: This had one of the best epilogues I've read in a while. I would call this a HEA ending for sure.
How I got it: It was part of my kindle unlimited subscription.
Safety: Safe with exception
Read
March 7, 2016
Set Up
MMC has two-year fuck buddy arrangement with a girl.
Opening scene is oral and sex between them before she informs him she's pregnant.
Pissy childhood means he doesn't do relationships and love.
After she declines his offer to pay for an abortion, he settles on offering her his services as a weekend and holiday kinda dad.
Chick dies giving birth, meaning the MMC is now a single dad.
The FMC is his new neighbor. They meet and argue on the day of his baby mama's funeral because he tells her he thinks he will be putting the baby up for adoption.
26% ^^
MMC Made My Nose Scrunch Up
The reason that I couldn't finish this book is pure hatred for the MMC.
A) He's a selfish ass who 1. Wants to abort the baby 2. Be half-ass dad 3. Abandon the baby after the mom does 4. Wants to put baby up for adoption after baby mama dies.
^ I can understand every single bit of that up until he holds his baby. After meeting, holding feeding, etc his baby AND he still says he doesn't love it ???!?? Now, that I can't emphasize with and just can't understand out of a dad.
^^ I get that this is a growth book, but he's such a dumbass that I'm just beyond believing any potential turn around.
^^^ And, he's so fucking cold (I'm talking ice for emotions) that I'm not sure I'd care even if I could believe it.
B) He adamantly tells us and her that he didn't love the baby-mama. He treats her like garbage for no reason. Fine enough. But why then do they both call each other "baby" in a two-year f' buddy situation?
C) It's the baby-mama's funeral and he is thinking about how perfectly hot and spunky the new neighbor (FMC) is? Of course, he says baby mama was hot, too, and he might've developed feelings for her if baby mama had some drive and wasn't content in life as a waitress and shit. I just wanted to scream f'u.
Bottom Line
This could be the redeeming of the century to make this dude daddy of all daddies. IDK! But the fact that I wouldn't care makes it a moot point for me.
I really disliked how he treated someone he had a fuck buddy relationship FOR TWO YEARS with and was going to be the mother of his kid. Doesn't bode well for believing he is capable of caring for anyone!
I could've moved past him not wanting the kid BEFORE he was born, but after?!!? No!
I'd recommend downloading a sample... You can get a terrific feel for if this MMC is tolerable or not for you.
February 29, 2016
I loved this book! I am a sucker for a good single parent romance and this one was almost perfect. Max, the hero, started this book off as a huge jerk but quickly redeemed himself. I loved reading about him falling in love with his son, Xander. I also loved the chemistry between Max and Emilia. The sexy times were hot, the romance was sweet, it was low-angst and had just enough suspense and drama to keep things interesting. I really enjoyed this book and can't wait to read more by this author!
January 25, 2016
ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review.
This book spoke to my heart! It's a story about a man growing up and taking responsibility for his actions.
Max is not up for commitment. His relationships are purely physical until his partner hits him with some big news.
A pregnancy is not in his plans and he prefers to keep his distance...until he cannot.
When a baby is forced into his hands, he will have to make a choice; give away his son or grow up and be a responsible adult.
Emelia is a woman starting over, running from her past and her family. When she meets her new neighbor, something immediately draws her to him. She soon realizes Max's big issue but thankfully, she doesn't stick to the 'first impressions' rule. She wants to help him get stronger as a father and she does just that.
Their relationship is hesitant but strengthened by one thing; Max's son.
When feelings get in the way, what will our unlikely couple do? Fight for their love or push it aside forever?
I am a fan of this author. I loved some of her previous works and this book will melt your heart!
I was amazed by Max's transformation! He really grows up as the story unfolds and becomes a good father and a good man. It was amazing to watch that!
Emilia was a fantastic heroine! I could totally connect with her and I loved, loved how she was with Max's baby!
The one thing that put me off was the unnecessary ex-boyrfriend drama. I felt like the story could totally stand on its own without the added, and slightly overused, theme. Max's story alone and his relationship with Emelia was enough for me.
That said, this was a great emotional read, with great characters! Do not miss it.
****4 stars****
February 27, 2016
I loved the shit out of this book, I really did. It wasn't a drama-rama nor an intense angst fest, instead I got a sweet romantic read that hooked me from the beginning and SO worked for me.
Max was a total closed off alphahole in the beginning, but he admitted it and owned it made no excuses for it. I loved his total honesty, right the way through the book. He had huge character growth right from the beginning, and witnessing him soften and fall totally head over heels in love with Xander was so damn cute. He really stepped up to the plate for Xander and I love how this was done gradually.
I also love how Keri (Xander's mom) was worked into the story - no bitchy/skanky ex's here.
Em, 8 years younger than Max truly was the sweetest heroine. Strong, brave, caring and loving and just what Max and Xander needed.
Initially I wasn't sure the stalker plot was needed but after thinking about it I think it was - it certainly resolved the mother situation, and also as it didn't detract from my reading experience I'm okay with how the author took the story.
Max was a total closed off alphahole in the beginning, but he admitted it and owned it made no excuses for it. I loved his total honesty, right the way through the book. He had huge character growth right from the beginning, and witnessing him soften and fall totally head over heels in love with Xander was so damn cute. He really stepped up to the plate for Xander and I love how this was done gradually.
I also love how Keri (Xander's mom) was worked into the story - no bitchy/skanky ex's here.
Em, 8 years younger than Max truly was the sweetest heroine. Strong, brave, caring and loving and just what Max and Xander needed.
Initially I wasn't sure the stalker plot was needed but after thinking about it I think it was - it certainly resolved the mother situation, and also as it didn't detract from my reading experience I'm okay with how the author took the story.
February 27, 2016
Pleasantly surprised
I loved this one! A small drama I could have done without but it was a sweet story with a good bit of steam.
I loved this one! A small drama I could have done without but it was a sweet story with a good bit of steam.
February 29, 2016
I saw this on my friend Bev's shelf. I'm a review and blurb- skimmer (I try to avoid big spoilers). I love to be surprised after just a few hints. I was confused going into this book.
There is no ow, there is an ex (Keri) that is no longer living. It is a a major part of this story. It's THE premise for the whole book.
Max is a major alpha-hole as has been mentioned before. He's been on his own and has been leading a very selfish life. He's just getting by and is cut off emotionally from everyone.
Max is 32, but is in NO Way looking for a relationship-of any kind. He finds himself a single father of a newborn son, Xander. Max has no idea what to do with his baby boy. He's seriously considering adoption. He has no family to turn to for help. Max's boss/mentor Jack and his wife pitch in with encouragement and a dose of realism: Max's son needs HIM. Max is given some time off (a week or so) to take care of his son and bond with him.
Max finds a baby sitter for baby Xander and Max goes back to work. Max's neighbor in the Apt across the hall notices that the sitter is drunk when trying take Xander to the park. She stops the sitter & informs Max. The neighbor is the h, Emelia. She's immediately enamored of Xander but is wary of Max, since he's had some blow ups in her presence. Emelia offers to help with Xander. They have a mutual neighbor that can take over as a full time baby sitter. Emelia helps out to when she gets home from work.
Max and Emelia spend more & more time together. The POV is dual 1st person. Emelia is very attracted to Max and Max is attracted to Em. Max worries that Emelia, 24 is too young to get tied down with them. He keeps it as just friends for a while, even though Emelia is becoming closer to Max and Xander. I loved how Max bonded more and more with Xander. Max's late-ex is thought of as a "relationship" that he had and doesn't factor into Max and Emelia's relationship. They are both each other's first TRUE LOVE. Max does pay tribute to Keri's love of her child that she never met.
Emelia's crazy ex tries to contact her -calling her constantly. Emelia's mother is out of the same mold. I couldn't figure out why Em's dad & Em & her sister couldn't make mommy stop being sooooo obnoxious. Especially the dad. It comes to a head and choices are made.
I love Max, Emelia and Xander. I was really cheering for them. The early baby days were some tough ones. Max and Emelia had some sweet romantic times, but Xander had to come first when finding that time.
Ending was kind of rushed, but then there were 2 time leaps in the epilogue. Many loose ends were tied up. I really enjoyed this book. I liked the author's writing style. 4.25 stars for me
read this through KU.
There is no ow, there is an ex (Keri) that is no longer living. It is a a major part of this story. It's THE premise for the whole book.
Max is a major alpha-hole as has been mentioned before. He's been on his own and has been leading a very selfish life. He's just getting by and is cut off emotionally from everyone.
Max is 32, but is in NO Way looking for a relationship-of any kind. He finds himself a single father of a newborn son, Xander. Max has no idea what to do with his baby boy. He's seriously considering adoption. He has no family to turn to for help. Max's boss/mentor Jack and his wife pitch in with encouragement and a dose of realism: Max's son needs HIM. Max is given some time off (a week or so) to take care of his son and bond with him.
Max finds a baby sitter for baby Xander and Max goes back to work. Max's neighbor in the Apt across the hall notices that the sitter is drunk when trying take Xander to the park. She stops the sitter & informs Max. The neighbor is the h, Emelia. She's immediately enamored of Xander but is wary of Max, since he's had some blow ups in her presence. Emelia offers to help with Xander. They have a mutual neighbor that can take over as a full time baby sitter. Emelia helps out to when she gets home from work.
Max and Emelia spend more & more time together. The POV is dual 1st person. Emelia is very attracted to Max and Max is attracted to Em. Max worries that Emelia, 24 is too young to get tied down with them. He keeps it as just friends for a while, even though Emelia is becoming closer to Max and Xander. I loved how Max bonded more and more with Xander. Max's late-ex is thought of as a "relationship" that he had and doesn't factor into Max and Emelia's relationship. They are both each other's first TRUE LOVE. Max does pay tribute to Keri's love of her child that she never met.
Emelia's crazy ex tries to contact her -calling her constantly. Emelia's mother is out of the same mold. I couldn't figure out why Em's dad & Em & her sister couldn't make mommy stop being sooooo obnoxious. Especially the dad. It comes to a head and choices are made.
I love Max, Emelia and Xander. I was really cheering for them. The early baby days were some tough ones. Max and Emelia had some sweet romantic times, but Xander had to come first when finding that time.
Ending was kind of rushed, but then there were 2 time leaps in the epilogue. Many loose ends were tied up. I really enjoyed this book. I liked the author's writing style. 4.25 stars for me
read this through KU.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 28, 2016
This book is all things sentimental,snips & snails,and puppy dogs tails.There is not much of a manwhore here despite popular consensus. Max had been in a monogamous relationship with his fuckbuddy Claire before she falls accidentally pregnant & dies during childbirth. Condoms were not an issue since she was on the pill & they were not seeing other people. This was an arrangement of lust & mutual agreement despite Claire wanting more.You cannot choose who you love nor can you force love.
Despite Max rough beginning's, once he loves he does it with all of his being.There is ZERO CHEATING & no other woman drama.Claire does make an appearance as a friendly spirit who pushes Max to do his best by his son & Emelia the woman that holds his heart.
This definitely is my feel good book for February.
Despite Max rough beginning's, once he loves he does it with all of his being.There is ZERO CHEATING & no other woman drama.Claire does make an appearance as a friendly spirit who pushes Max to do his best by his son & Emelia the woman that holds his heart.
This definitely is my feel good book for February.
February 27, 2016
4.5 stars
*review to come*
*review to come*
January 23, 2019
A little predictable but very enjoyable.
October 29, 2016
"Pieces of him" es la segunda lectura que llevo de la autora, no logró sorprenderme mucho, cosa que tampoco ocurrió en su anterior libro. Es una lectura muy ligera, ciertamente entretenida, muy elemental en la trama (salvo el acontecimiento sobre el bebé). Me gustó pero no llegó a emocionarme mucho, es muy lineal.
May 31, 2016
Sin mucho para decir, nada memorable, una lectura muy básica, nada destacable, tampoco nada detestable ni odioso, sólo para pasar el rato.
October 20, 2017
Max Castillo is a douche. A player. A man-whore. When his long term f**k-buddy stops by and tells him she is pregnant he is stunned. When he as at the birth he is mesmerized with his son but glad his mother will raise him. He had the worst example of a father. When tragedy strikes he is thrust into the role he doesn't want. Daddy.
With the supportive talk of a nurse in the hospital. A boss who, with the help of his wife, goes above and beyond. Finally, his new neighbor Emelia Masters who gets pissed when she learns what his plans for his beautiful baby is and then saves him from a bad babysitter. Things start to change. He goes from the baby is a miracle to I will give him away to I will protect him to I love him and will protect and died for him if needed and along the way he learns to open up and let love in. With his son. His boss and his wife. Most of all with Emelia.
There were a few things I didnt like. The stalker ex who is the antagonist and causes the climax of the story. It was ok but not need IMO. Otherwise this stor was amazing.
With the supportive talk of a nurse in the hospital. A boss who, with the help of his wife, goes above and beyond. Finally, his new neighbor Emelia Masters who gets pissed when she learns what his plans for his beautiful baby is and then saves him from a bad babysitter. Things start to change. He goes from the baby is a miracle to I will give him away to I will protect him to I love him and will protect and died for him if needed and along the way he learns to open up and let love in. With his son. His boss and his wife. Most of all with Emelia.
There were a few things I didnt like. The stalker ex who is the antagonist and causes the climax of the story. It was ok but not need IMO. Otherwise this stor was amazing.
March 5, 2016
3.5 rounded up to 4 stars
March 8, 2016
Struggled to connect with both of the main characters! Usually love this author but unfortunately this one didn't work for me.
March 1, 2016
CAUTION: SPOILERS ----- 3.75 stars. I liked both h and H, though H was a big a$$ in the beginning. It was sweet to see him slowly growing into having responsibility for someone else than himself and learning how to love. The first weeks and months of struggling with his daily baby routine were hard but well written, I loved this part. I also loved the heroine, but I found the whole kidnapping thing a little too much and I didn't like the sex scenes, I felt more like an onlooker instead of feeling the passion between them. The basics: h+H POVs, first person present tense, no cheating, no OW (though the baby's mother died at giving birth and they held her memory in honor, she was never a rival), OM issue (stalker ex gets violent towards h, no rape), average sex scenes with a little wannabe kink, a jealous & possessive & protective H (after coming to his senses), a solid HEA with an epilogue and leaps in time to three important stages of the boy's life: first big sports event at 7, graduation at 18 and marriage at 30, the last one in his POV. I enjoyed this book, but it wasn't really outstanding.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 12, 2016
I loved everything about this book from the characters and the storyline. I loved the slow build of the relationship between Max and Emelia. It was nice to see Max go from being a selfish douche to this caring loving father and husband. Can't wait to read more books by this author.
June 28, 2020
Overall rating: 6++ stars
"She may have left, but she left him something he'll have forever. There's a sad beauty in that."
I loved this book so fucking much!
"She died for him. She died so that you could have him. It was a gift. The most precious fucking gift you could ever receive."
It was as much Max and Xander's love story as it was Max and Emilia's, which made me love it even more. Xander was the main hero, he helped both Max and Emilia in so many ways. The epilogue was perfect, I honestly couldn't have wished for more. Because it was started in such a sad, heartbreaking way, the love that we see at the end just makes you feel so sad and so happy all at the same time, it was perfect and hard to deal with the emotions.
"Oh, like you weren't getting emotional this morning when he told you he was majoring in business so he can help you run your company one day."
Max was a massive cock at the beginning, I loved him even then but he was a huge tool. He was horrible to Keri when he found out she was pregnant he was a massive bastard and I honestly couldn't see how he'd deal with a baby by himself.
"You knew what this was between us from the jump. This was supposed to be about fun. That's it. No fucking strings - no fucking commitments."
"You have some fairy tale, fantasy bullshit running through your head and you need to stop it. Let it go. We’re never gonna be about white picket fences, you and me. That’s not how this is going to end."
I felt it was kinda justified after Keri died though, he didn't know how to deal with losing someone that he loved but hadn't realised he loved. She was a special part of his life and he cared about her even before she gave him Xander regardless of the fact he hadn't realised.
"The bond those two share is special... Em treats Xander as if he's a gift she was given, so she never takes it for granted, any of it. Every scrape of the knee, birthday, haircut and swimming class is something to remember and cherish."
Emilia was such a loving, nurturing person, there was no way she could ever not love Max and Xander. I felt so proud of her when she told Max she wanted to be his mum even if they weren't together any more. Although they both loved each other so much, their love for baby Xander was even stronger. Even though Xander started out with a dad that didn't want him and he lost his mum so young, he was the first love of both Max and Emilia.
"Maybe it's the way she'll go head to head with me or anyone else if she feels they're doing wrong? Maybe it's just as simple as her smile? I don't have the answer. All I know is she's the first girl I've ever wanted to keep."
The amazing thing was I felt everything along with these two, every single feeling and reaction I could relate to, which is a bit stupid because I don't know what tie'd like to have kids or be in anything like their situation, but it just shows how fantastically written Pieces of Him is.
"I couldn't see that she was handing me the world. She gave me the first real love of my life and I came dangerously close to throwing that away."
"She may have left, but she left him something he'll have forever. There's a sad beauty in that."
I loved this book so fucking much!
"She died for him. She died so that you could have him. It was a gift. The most precious fucking gift you could ever receive."
It was as much Max and Xander's love story as it was Max and Emilia's, which made me love it even more. Xander was the main hero, he helped both Max and Emilia in so many ways. The epilogue was perfect, I honestly couldn't have wished for more. Because it was started in such a sad, heartbreaking way, the love that we see at the end just makes you feel so sad and so happy all at the same time, it was perfect and hard to deal with the emotions.
"Oh, like you weren't getting emotional this morning when he told you he was majoring in business so he can help you run your company one day."
Max was a massive cock at the beginning, I loved him even then but he was a huge tool. He was horrible to Keri when he found out she was pregnant he was a massive bastard and I honestly couldn't see how he'd deal with a baby by himself.
"You knew what this was between us from the jump. This was supposed to be about fun. That's it. No fucking strings - no fucking commitments."
"You have some fairy tale, fantasy bullshit running through your head and you need to stop it. Let it go. We’re never gonna be about white picket fences, you and me. That’s not how this is going to end."
I felt it was kinda justified after Keri died though, he didn't know how to deal with losing someone that he loved but hadn't realised he loved. She was a special part of his life and he cared about her even before she gave him Xander regardless of the fact he hadn't realised.
"The bond those two share is special... Em treats Xander as if he's a gift she was given, so she never takes it for granted, any of it. Every scrape of the knee, birthday, haircut and swimming class is something to remember and cherish."
Emilia was such a loving, nurturing person, there was no way she could ever not love Max and Xander. I felt so proud of her when she told Max she wanted to be his mum even if they weren't together any more. Although they both loved each other so much, their love for baby Xander was even stronger. Even though Xander started out with a dad that didn't want him and he lost his mum so young, he was the first love of both Max and Emilia.
"Maybe it's the way she'll go head to head with me or anyone else if she feels they're doing wrong? Maybe it's just as simple as her smile? I don't have the answer. All I know is she's the first girl I've ever wanted to keep."
The amazing thing was I felt everything along with these two, every single feeling and reaction I could relate to, which is a bit stupid because I don't know what tie'd like to have kids or be in anything like their situation, but it just shows how fantastically written Pieces of Him is.
"I couldn't see that she was handing me the world. She gave me the first real love of my life and I came dangerously close to throwing that away."
January 25, 2016
Her eyes come up to mine, and if I had to take a guess, I’d say she looks scared, which makes this all that much worse. Because it means that somewhere along the way, this girl probably fell in love with me, which is beyond ridiculous. There’s nothing here to love. Nothing here worth loving. I’m an asshole, and I’ve never hidden that from her.
Alice Tribue sends readers on an emotional roller coaster with the release of Pieces of Him. For me this story ticks off so many of my “must haves” when it comes to an all consuming read! I loved that a large part of this story is told in the male POV, the characters are captivating and it is a new/refreshing twist on a heart warming love story.
Right out of the gate we are thrust into Max’s self centered life. He says some total a$$hole things BUT one thing I loved about him was his brutal honesty. Would I want to date him - NOPE but I respected the fact that he was finally getting his career and life moving in a positive direction. So you can imagine the very last thing he expected to be was a single Dad.
Emilie is Max’s new neighbor that happens to walk into his life just as it was unraveling. She is a great friend and strong supporter. Emilie has her own demons so when Max dished out his bull$hit, she threw it right back - LOVE IT!!!
I've never wanted to have more than a casual relationship, but getting older and having a child makes me look at everything differently.
Of course they are attracted to one another BUT Max isn’t looking or able to consider anything more with Emilie. I loved their slow build. It had me on the edge of my seat as they flirted with their attraction.
I don’t want to love him, but because I literally don’t know how. I don’t know how to feel what I’m feeling for him, how to embrace that shit because no one ever gave it to me.
Pieces of Him is a different spin in the over saturated alpha book boyfriend world. Don’t get me wrong, Max is opinionated, bossy and totally drool worthy! His struggles were real and heartbreaking. We are all faced with unexpected highs and lows, how Max chose to deal with them took my breathe away!
I devoured this story and know you will too! I found the growth and journey these characters took to be refreshing and heartbreaking. Both Max and Emilie are strong independent people that anyone can respect.
Pieces of Him is the perfect book to curl up with on this long winter nights!
5 emotional stars; Standalone; dual POV
Alice Tribue sends readers on an emotional roller coaster with the release of Pieces of Him. For me this story ticks off so many of my “must haves” when it comes to an all consuming read! I loved that a large part of this story is told in the male POV, the characters are captivating and it is a new/refreshing twist on a heart warming love story.
Right out of the gate we are thrust into Max’s self centered life. He says some total a$$hole things BUT one thing I loved about him was his brutal honesty. Would I want to date him - NOPE but I respected the fact that he was finally getting his career and life moving in a positive direction. So you can imagine the very last thing he expected to be was a single Dad.
Emilie is Max’s new neighbor that happens to walk into his life just as it was unraveling. She is a great friend and strong supporter. Emilie has her own demons so when Max dished out his bull$hit, she threw it right back - LOVE IT!!!
I've never wanted to have more than a casual relationship, but getting older and having a child makes me look at everything differently.
Of course they are attracted to one another BUT Max isn’t looking or able to consider anything more with Emilie. I loved their slow build. It had me on the edge of my seat as they flirted with their attraction.
I don’t want to love him, but because I literally don’t know how. I don’t know how to feel what I’m feeling for him, how to embrace that shit because no one ever gave it to me.
Pieces of Him is a different spin in the over saturated alpha book boyfriend world. Don’t get me wrong, Max is opinionated, bossy and totally drool worthy! His struggles were real and heartbreaking. We are all faced with unexpected highs and lows, how Max chose to deal with them took my breathe away!
I devoured this story and know you will too! I found the growth and journey these characters took to be refreshing and heartbreaking. Both Max and Emilie are strong independent people that anyone can respect.
Pieces of Him is the perfect book to curl up with on this long winter nights!
5 emotional stars; Standalone; dual POV
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March 9, 2016DNF @ 68%
I tried... I really do, but I just can't connect with the characters. First off, I don't like Max. Not one bit. He acted like a complete a**hole towards Keri. Sure, they were f*ck buddies but they were still friends. It's not like Keri was a total whore ~ (maybe sometimes especially the first part where he push her down to do her thing which she did obediently before dropping the bomb **major eye roll** ) and she did harbor some feelings towards Max and he is knowledgeable about it. Yet despite knowing that he wouldn't reciprocate her feelings, he acted nonchalant about it until the day he dreaded that she confess her feelings then ta ta! Off to search for another free f*ck. In short, he was a complete user.
I understand his initial reaction after the birth of Xander. However, I cannot understand him on how he deals with Keri's death. It felt like he cares a little then shifts to no care at all. What I enjoyed though was reading about his struggle to being a father, it kind of felt realistic.
Emelia, well she is the sweet girl who just moved to Max's building. They became close and she helped him took care of Xander, they had some moments until after just a blink of an eye, they've been hanging out for four months already. Before you know it, it's eight months. Actually, I expected more time for them to spend on each other because otherwise, I cannot understand how deep their feelings runs. To be honest, everything about them felt more like I was being told.
Then there's Garrett, which added to the equation who acted as a stalker.
Those were the reasons why I am detached from the story. So even though only a few pages left, I still cannot make myself finish it because I just don't care how it would end.
I tried... I really do, but I just can't connect with the characters. First off, I don't like Max. Not one bit. He acted like a complete a**hole towards Keri. Sure, they were f*ck buddies but they were still friends. It's not like Keri was a total whore ~ (maybe sometimes especially the first part where he push her down to do her thing which she did obediently before dropping the bomb **major eye roll** ) and she did harbor some feelings towards Max and he is knowledgeable about it. Yet despite knowing that he wouldn't reciprocate her feelings, he acted nonchalant about it until the day he dreaded that she confess her feelings then ta ta! Off to search for another free f*ck. In short, he was a complete user.
I understand his initial reaction after the birth of Xander. However, I cannot understand him on how he deals with Keri's death. It felt like he cares a little then shifts to no care at all. What I enjoyed though was reading about his struggle to being a father, it kind of felt realistic.
Emelia, well she is the sweet girl who just moved to Max's building. They became close and she helped him took care of Xander, they had some moments until after just a blink of an eye, they've been hanging out for four months already. Before you know it, it's eight months. Actually, I expected more time for them to spend on each other because otherwise, I cannot understand how deep their feelings runs. To be honest, everything about them felt more like I was being told.
Then there's Garrett, which added to the equation who acted as a stalker.
Those were the reasons why I am detached from the story. So even though only a few pages left, I still cannot make myself finish it because I just don't care how it would end.
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