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Best friends do everything together–including falling in love… Maya and Cat have been there for each other through thick and thin, the good and the bad, the laughter and the heartache. But with college graduation on the horizon and real life looming, they find themselves facing an uncertain one where not even friendship can save them from confusing choices, bad decisions, and the risks of falling in love. Maya knows that love only leads to pain, and the best relationships are short–one night short. But after waking up with Jake, her best friend's older brother, in her bed, suddenly things aren't as cut and dry. Cat and Jake are close, a tight unit since their parents' death, and Cat will never forgive her if Jake gets hurt. Jake is a firefighter, and is used to running into flames–not away from them, and Maya can't seem to resist. But she's already decided her future, and it's far away from here. The only way to get what she's always wanted is to burn every bridge behind her, and destroy the possibility of a future with the one man she may be willing to love. When Cat Jacobs's parents died while she was in high school, her brother's best friend Dallas Miller was there to help pick up the pieces. Several years and a looming college graduation later, Cat's motorcycle–riding, tattooed knight is about to ride off into the sunset–and leave her in his dust. She only has six days to convince him to fulfil her secret fantasy of having him for her first before he's gone forever. She's stubborn and he's tempted, but this is a battle for more than just some time in the bedroom–it's a fight for both their futures.
284 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2016
3 people are currently reading
68 people want to read
About the author
M.A. Grant
29 books345 followersM.A. Grant fell in love with the romance genre while working at an independent bookstore. She spent a decade in the rugged beauty of Alaska's Kenai Peninsula before moving to the mountains of Eastern Washington. When she’s not calling out to passing ravens or making a cup of tea, she’s writing dark and moving stories.
She is represented by Deidre Knight of The Knight Agency.
She is represented by Deidre Knight of The Knight Agency.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
May 25, 2016
Two stories for the price of one.
If you're looking for a sweet romantic read then these two stories are just what you need.
I have to say that I enjoyed Maya and Jake's story a little more as their love hate relationship amused me. Cat and Dallas were sweeter because Cat was very naive.
My only criticism would be that you don't get a full picture because they're so short.
If you're looking for a sweet romantic read then these two stories are just what you need.
I have to say that I enjoyed Maya and Jake's story a little more as their love hate relationship amused me. Cat and Dallas were sweeter because Cat was very naive.
My only criticism would be that you don't get a full picture because they're so short.
January 18, 2016
I'm not sure how to rate this because it's two stories in one book. I hated book one. Maya was a complete bitch and didn't deserve Jake. However Cat and Dallas's story was sooo cute! I loved it!
the breakdown
Book 1= 1 1/2 stars
Book 2=3.5-3.8
Combined solid 3 (blame stupid Maya)
Book one Maya and Jake.
Jake is Maya's best friends brother. They hate each other, she sees him at a bar, they get drunk and end up in bed. Maya wakes up regretting it swearing it'll never happen again. Jake has had a crush on Maya forever but she's always been super mean to him so he assumes she just hates him. The premise of the story sounds good unfortunately the way Maya's character is written she comes off as arrogant, condescending, a complete bitch and cold. I didn't get what Jake saw in her. He was always nice and trying to be friendly with her and she just shut him down with snide remarks and self righteousness. Ugh! Jake and Cat's parents died when Jake was 19 so he had to grow up and be Cat's parent. He became a firefighter to support her and put his life on hold to make sure Cat had everything she needed. And this bitch threw that in his face and made him feel like a POS just for growing up and taking care of his sister by having a decent job, being responsible and not partying it up or having a life of his own. Stupid. Anyway, I didn't understand the pull between the two of them but Jake proclaims his love for her and Maya was not having it. Thank god their story was short because I wanted to call it quits. She doesn't redeem herself. She ruined the book for me.
Book two Dallas and Cat
Dallas (Dally) is Jake's best friend and like I said Cat is Jake's little sister.
Dally has been in love with Cat since he moved back home from Arizona when Cat's patents died. Cat just didn't notice. Cat decides she's done with being a virgin and bugs Dallas relentlessly for him to take it. He keeps telling her no because he knows Jake would kill him and he's getting ready to move back to Arizona and doesn't want to leave behind with emotional baggage. However, Dally finally agrees but before it goes down Jake comes home, finds out, loses his shit and all hell breaks loose. I loved Cat and Dally together. You see their closeness, playfulness, how they bicker and their love for each other.. Their story was so Freaken cute!! And how it ends was perfect ~ although I kind of wish we got an epilogue.
the breakdown
Book 1= 1 1/2 stars
Book 2=3.5-3.8
Combined solid 3 (blame stupid Maya)
Book one Maya and Jake.
Jake is Maya's best friends brother. They hate each other, she sees him at a bar, they get drunk and end up in bed. Maya wakes up regretting it swearing it'll never happen again. Jake has had a crush on Maya forever but she's always been super mean to him so he assumes she just hates him. The premise of the story sounds good unfortunately the way Maya's character is written she comes off as arrogant, condescending, a complete bitch and cold. I didn't get what Jake saw in her. He was always nice and trying to be friendly with her and she just shut him down with snide remarks and self righteousness. Ugh! Jake and Cat's parents died when Jake was 19 so he had to grow up and be Cat's parent. He became a firefighter to support her and put his life on hold to make sure Cat had everything she needed. And this bitch threw that in his face and made him feel like a POS just for growing up and taking care of his sister by having a decent job, being responsible and not partying it up or having a life of his own. Stupid. Anyway, I didn't understand the pull between the two of them but Jake proclaims his love for her and Maya was not having it. Thank god their story was short because I wanted to call it quits. She doesn't redeem herself. She ruined the book for me.
Book two Dallas and Cat
Dallas (Dally) is Jake's best friend and like I said Cat is Jake's little sister.
Dally has been in love with Cat since he moved back home from Arizona when Cat's patents died. Cat just didn't notice. Cat decides she's done with being a virgin and bugs Dallas relentlessly for him to take it. He keeps telling her no because he knows Jake would kill him and he's getting ready to move back to Arizona and doesn't want to leave behind with emotional baggage. However, Dally finally agrees but before it goes down Jake comes home, finds out, loses his shit and all hell breaks loose. I loved Cat and Dally together. You see their closeness, playfulness, how they bicker and their love for each other.. Their story was so Freaken cute!! And how it ends was perfect ~ although I kind of wish we got an epilogue.
April 4, 2016
This book are about two couples
1. Molly and Jake whom hate each other but after one night their feelings surface, maybe was already there. I like Molly developed she was a broken girl and has her doubts and don't want get hurt but this was her shield. Jake was the good boy and a fireman hot hot hot who was a daddy and a brother to his baby sister. They fight but was good to see they around and make some peace or love?! I just did not like they hidden their relationship to Cat.
2. Cat and Dallas
Cat always loved Dallas and he is the bad boy lot of girls and how he sexy he is. Cat has a mind of a teenager and she has 22 years and think that she is different because she is VIRGIN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! FUCK THIS...........
Dallas all alpha male but could not tell her how he feels or exactly get in her pants.
And then Dallas fight with Jake and blah blah blah they have HEA.
Why people think that womanizer will lay down with just one woman after one night.....
1. Molly and Jake whom hate each other but after one night their feelings surface, maybe was already there. I like Molly developed she was a broken girl and has her doubts and don't want get hurt but this was her shield. Jake was the good boy and a fireman hot hot hot who was a daddy and a brother to his baby sister. They fight but was good to see they around and make some peace or love?! I just did not like they hidden their relationship to Cat.
2. Cat and Dallas
Cat always loved Dallas and he is the bad boy lot of girls and how he sexy he is. Cat has a mind of a teenager and she has 22 years and think that she is different because she is VIRGIN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! FUCK THIS...........
Dallas all alpha male but could not tell her how he feels or exactly get in her pants.
And then Dallas fight with Jake and blah blah blah they have HEA.
Why people think that womanizer will lay down with just one woman after one night.....
February 1, 2016
eARC recieved via Netgalley from Escape Publishing in exchange for an honest review.
You can see more of my reviews at Carlene Inspired.
Maya believes in one night stands, even when one of those one night stands makes her feel emotions she didn't want to have. Love just leads to hurt, especially when it's her best friends brother that's stirring those emotions up. Maya now has to decide does she give firefighter Jake a try or does she hurt him, and her best friend, in the process when she runs away.
Cat has leaned on Dallas as a big brother ever since her parent's death, but when her virginity gets in the way of her plans she knows he's the perfect candidate to help out with her situation. Too bad she actually has feelings for him and he for her as well, because big brother Jake won't like it much when womanizer Dallas is the one to deflower his little sister. Both have to decide if going behind Jake's back is worth it in the end.
First combines two novellas about best friends Cat and Maya and the similar situations they find themselves in when they date the men they shouldn't. I really enjoyed all four main characters, but I have to admit I prefer Maya and hot firefighter Jake the most. I could easily see both of these succeeding as full length novels, however I did enjoy them as novellas as well. The characters are funny, a bit jaded, and they're about as opposite as night and day. Maya doesn't believe in love and she's got an attitude that should easily scare anyone off, but lucky for us readers, Jake doesn't scare easily and when Maya hits him where it hurts it makes him open up his eyes. Their witty banter was hilarious and I like how both realized they were perfect fits for each other. Cat reminds me of a teenager, she just wants to get her virginity out of the way, even if it means using her brother's best friend and crush to do so. Her story with Dallas is laugh out loud funny, but a little harder to believe in. In the end, I like that it's best friends dating best friends and of course I like the older guy, college girl scenario. The dialogue between all characters is great, the sex isn't over the top, but just right, and the drama isn't overpowering. The entire novel is a quick fun read and if I could have my way I'd have two full length novels on the couples. This was my first novel from M.A. Grant, but I don't think it will be my last.
You can see more of my reviews at Carlene Inspired.
Maya believes in one night stands, even when one of those one night stands makes her feel emotions she didn't want to have. Love just leads to hurt, especially when it's her best friends brother that's stirring those emotions up. Maya now has to decide does she give firefighter Jake a try or does she hurt him, and her best friend, in the process when she runs away.
Cat has leaned on Dallas as a big brother ever since her parent's death, but when her virginity gets in the way of her plans she knows he's the perfect candidate to help out with her situation. Too bad she actually has feelings for him and he for her as well, because big brother Jake won't like it much when womanizer Dallas is the one to deflower his little sister. Both have to decide if going behind Jake's back is worth it in the end.
First combines two novellas about best friends Cat and Maya and the similar situations they find themselves in when they date the men they shouldn't. I really enjoyed all four main characters, but I have to admit I prefer Maya and hot firefighter Jake the most. I could easily see both of these succeeding as full length novels, however I did enjoy them as novellas as well. The characters are funny, a bit jaded, and they're about as opposite as night and day. Maya doesn't believe in love and she's got an attitude that should easily scare anyone off, but lucky for us readers, Jake doesn't scare easily and when Maya hits him where it hurts it makes him open up his eyes. Their witty banter was hilarious and I like how both realized they were perfect fits for each other. Cat reminds me of a teenager, she just wants to get her virginity out of the way, even if it means using her brother's best friend and crush to do so. Her story with Dallas is laugh out loud funny, but a little harder to believe in. In the end, I like that it's best friends dating best friends and of course I like the older guy, college girl scenario. The dialogue between all characters is great, the sex isn't over the top, but just right, and the drama isn't overpowering. The entire novel is a quick fun read and if I could have my way I'd have two full length novels on the couples. This was my first novel from M.A. Grant, but I don't think it will be my last.
January 1, 2016
One book, two stories. This was a bit of a change up to the normal format, but I think I sort of liked it.
Maya’s story begins with waking up from a drunken night of sex with her best friend’s brother – while Cat’s is a story of losing her V-card to the same brother’s best friend...
So this was my first M.A. Grant read and I did really enjoy it. But I sort of felt like both stories could have been longer and released as standalone books. There was far less drama than the blurb eluded to as well. But I am a sucker for these themes and did really enjoy the book as a whole, I just feel like there is far more potential for this author than what is delivered in these pages.
Maya’s story begins with waking up from a drunken night of sex with her best friend’s brother – while Cat’s is a story of losing her V-card to the same brother’s best friend...
So this was my first M.A. Grant read and I did really enjoy it. But I sort of felt like both stories could have been longer and released as standalone books. There was far less drama than the blurb eluded to as well. But I am a sucker for these themes and did really enjoy the book as a whole, I just feel like there is far more potential for this author than what is delivered in these pages.
Want to read
December 23, 2015
***ARC kindly provided via NetGalley for the exchange of an honest review***
January 18, 2016
This was two stories in one book which were about the same in length. The stories are intertwined and both are equally good. I may have slightly favoured the first story but only because it had more sass and that’s what I like.
Maya and Cat are two best friends so are inseparable, they do everything together. They are just about to graduate college and unsure where their paths will lead them.
Jake is Cats older brother and Maya has marked him as off limits but after a drunken night they end up in bed together. They have a love hate relationship and don’t normally let their guards down. Neither of them wants it to ruin their relationship and decide sleeping together cannot happen again. However that does not mean they can hide from their feelings for each other.
Cat has a thing for her brother’s best friend, Dallas. Cat and Dallas have a tight relationship and are really good friends. Graduation is approaching fast and the pair are about to go their separate ways but Cat has one more favour to ask of Dallas before he goes. She wants her first night of passion to be with him all she has to do is convince him it will not ruin anyone’s friendships.
This book is about taking a chance on love and putting yourself out there. Cat and Jakes parents died when they were younger and they only have each other. They have a strong bond and want to keep it that way. Both Maya and Dallas are aware of their strong family connection. This book may have a tragic past however it is not the focus of the book which I was glad about.
I really enjoyed this read it was fun, passionate, quick paced and witty. Basically my kind of book.
5 stars out of 5. Highly recommended.
*An advanced copy of this book was given to me via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review*
Maya and Cat are two best friends so are inseparable, they do everything together. They are just about to graduate college and unsure where their paths will lead them.
Jake is Cats older brother and Maya has marked him as off limits but after a drunken night they end up in bed together. They have a love hate relationship and don’t normally let their guards down. Neither of them wants it to ruin their relationship and decide sleeping together cannot happen again. However that does not mean they can hide from their feelings for each other.
Cat has a thing for her brother’s best friend, Dallas. Cat and Dallas have a tight relationship and are really good friends. Graduation is approaching fast and the pair are about to go their separate ways but Cat has one more favour to ask of Dallas before he goes. She wants her first night of passion to be with him all she has to do is convince him it will not ruin anyone’s friendships.
This book is about taking a chance on love and putting yourself out there. Cat and Jakes parents died when they were younger and they only have each other. They have a strong bond and want to keep it that way. Both Maya and Dallas are aware of their strong family connection. This book may have a tragic past however it is not the focus of the book which I was glad about.
I really enjoyed this read it was fun, passionate, quick paced and witty. Basically my kind of book.
5 stars out of 5. Highly recommended.
*An advanced copy of this book was given to me via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review*
October 3, 2016
Originally posted on Reader's Anonymous
NOTE: I RECEIVED THIS NOVEL VIA NETGALLEY IN EXCHANGE FOR AN HONEST REVIEW.
FIRST IS A NEW ADULT NOVEL BY AUTHOR M.A. GRANT. IT’S ONE WHOLE NOVEL BROKEN INTO TWO MINI NOVELS. THE FIRST NOVELLA WAS THE RATHER UNCONVENTIONAL RELATIONSHIP OF MAYA AND JAKE:
Jake is a young firefighter on the road to career stardom. His personal life revolves around his little sister, Cora, after the untimely death of their parents. However, his self-discipline and extremely strict lifestyle didn’t reward him in the romance department, that is until he finds himself in bed with his sister’s best friend, Maya.
Maya is an anti-relationship, anti-love, childish, college student that has been through a disabling childhood (sarcasm) engendering her anti ways. She hates Jake because he reminds her of her father, who was “awful and controlling” toward her. After her parents divorce she shunned love and refuses to try her luck at love, especially with Jake.
Despite their differences, they’re both quietly aching for one another, and one night – after many drinks – they act on this attraction after Jake heroically assist her with her ex. One steamy night later, they wake up to the awkward moment of, “that really happened.” Of course they both deny the attraction and the wonderful night they experienced, in exchange for hatred and avoidance.
There’s a lot of unnecessary “action” and then they end up happily ever after.
The problem I had with this novella was Maya. Can you say annoying? She constantly pushed Jake away – for no reason – and treated him as if his feelings didn’t matter. She breaks up with him over text….
But the egregious part is that there’s no good reason for this behavior. I know about the shit with her parents, but, seriously? Not cool. He kept putting his heart out there to have it broken by Maya and I didn’t like it. Plus, she’s dramatic:
“I CAN’T WANT A RELATIONSHIP. RELATIONSHIPS DESTROY LIVES. THEY TAKE INDIVIDUAL FREEDOM AND SMOTHER IT UNDER THE PRETENSE OF AFFECTION.”
SECOND NOVELLA, DALLAS AND CORA:
Dallas was there for Cora after the death of her parents, being best friends with Cora’s older brother, Jake, kinda designated him as a surrogate brother, but his feelings are anything but brotherly toward Cora. She feels the same way about Dallas, but their fear and circumstances prevent them from expressing it. However, Cora gets tired of never experiencing life (I didn’t know that was life, but, okay), so she decides to ask him to take her virginity….
After rejecting her around twenty times and dodging her numerous attempts to seduce/force him to take her innocence, Dallas finally relents. But before they can get down, they have an argument and Jake comes back and blows up.
A huge altercation ensues, Cora leaves, but her car breaks down for the lack of gas, she calls Dallas; he comes, they do the big thang, but Dallas ends up leaving because Cora has not chosen him yet. After all of this Cora goes after Dallas and they live happily ever after.
Overall, there’s nothing special about either of these novellas, it was alright.
NOTE: I RECEIVED THIS NOVEL VIA NETGALLEY IN EXCHANGE FOR AN HONEST REVIEW.
FIRST IS A NEW ADULT NOVEL BY AUTHOR M.A. GRANT. IT’S ONE WHOLE NOVEL BROKEN INTO TWO MINI NOVELS. THE FIRST NOVELLA WAS THE RATHER UNCONVENTIONAL RELATIONSHIP OF MAYA AND JAKE:
Jake is a young firefighter on the road to career stardom. His personal life revolves around his little sister, Cora, after the untimely death of their parents. However, his self-discipline and extremely strict lifestyle didn’t reward him in the romance department, that is until he finds himself in bed with his sister’s best friend, Maya.
Maya is an anti-relationship, anti-love, childish, college student that has been through a disabling childhood (sarcasm) engendering her anti ways. She hates Jake because he reminds her of her father, who was “awful and controlling” toward her. After her parents divorce she shunned love and refuses to try her luck at love, especially with Jake.
Despite their differences, they’re both quietly aching for one another, and one night – after many drinks – they act on this attraction after Jake heroically assist her with her ex. One steamy night later, they wake up to the awkward moment of, “that really happened.” Of course they both deny the attraction and the wonderful night they experienced, in exchange for hatred and avoidance.
There’s a lot of unnecessary “action” and then they end up happily ever after.
The problem I had with this novella was Maya. Can you say annoying? She constantly pushed Jake away – for no reason – and treated him as if his feelings didn’t matter. She breaks up with him over text….
But the egregious part is that there’s no good reason for this behavior. I know about the shit with her parents, but, seriously? Not cool. He kept putting his heart out there to have it broken by Maya and I didn’t like it. Plus, she’s dramatic:
“I CAN’T WANT A RELATIONSHIP. RELATIONSHIPS DESTROY LIVES. THEY TAKE INDIVIDUAL FREEDOM AND SMOTHER IT UNDER THE PRETENSE OF AFFECTION.”
SECOND NOVELLA, DALLAS AND CORA:
Dallas was there for Cora after the death of her parents, being best friends with Cora’s older brother, Jake, kinda designated him as a surrogate brother, but his feelings are anything but brotherly toward Cora. She feels the same way about Dallas, but their fear and circumstances prevent them from expressing it. However, Cora gets tired of never experiencing life (I didn’t know that was life, but, okay), so she decides to ask him to take her virginity….
After rejecting her around twenty times and dodging her numerous attempts to seduce/force him to take her innocence, Dallas finally relents. But before they can get down, they have an argument and Jake comes back and blows up.
A huge altercation ensues, Cora leaves, but her car breaks down for the lack of gas, she calls Dallas; he comes, they do the big thang, but Dallas ends up leaving because Cora has not chosen him yet. After all of this Cora goes after Dallas and they live happily ever after.
Overall, there’s nothing special about either of these novellas, it was alright.
December 30, 2015
I received a copy via netgalley.
I found this to be cute. A bit sexy but not too much so. It's actually broken up into two novelettes. Which I thought based on description it was just gonna be a solid novel. So that might need to be placed somewhere upon purchase, not many people like mini stories. Both are rather shot you get a good storyline going then bam it gets good and it's over. For that I didn't like but I preferred the second half with Cat and Dally, I wish it had more going for it make it into a novel itself with more detail and a better conclusion then what we got. But for what they are it's great little quick reads. Solid 3.5 rating.
I found this to be cute. A bit sexy but not too much so. It's actually broken up into two novelettes. Which I thought based on description it was just gonna be a solid novel. So that might need to be placed somewhere upon purchase, not many people like mini stories. Both are rather shot you get a good storyline going then bam it gets good and it's over. For that I didn't like but I preferred the second half with Cat and Dally, I wish it had more going for it make it into a novel itself with more detail and a better conclusion then what we got. But for what they are it's great little quick reads. Solid 3.5 rating.
January 23, 2016
MA Grant has another winner on her hands. Or maybe I should say two winners.
I first have to confess that I'm really not a fan of New Adult books. And I also don't prefer first person. That being said, this author managed to pull these stories off and make me love them. I'd read many of MA Grant's other books and knew she was an amazing writer so I gave these a try. Not disappointed.
Even though both heroines were of the new adult age and just finishing up college, they never came across as immature. Cat was a bit naive but I never found her to have that stupid youngness that many college students have. And the heroes were totally mature adult males. Yum! I'm glad we got both point of views as it helped get inside the head of the characters. This made some of their actions more understandable. I really loved that they'd all known each other for a while. The friends to lovers trope is one of my favorites. The stories were filled with enticing banter, sweet emotion and steamy sex. All the things I like in a romance book.
This author has proven once again that she has the talent and ability to write in a variety of genres. Well done!
I first have to confess that I'm really not a fan of New Adult books. And I also don't prefer first person. That being said, this author managed to pull these stories off and make me love them. I'd read many of MA Grant's other books and knew she was an amazing writer so I gave these a try. Not disappointed.
Even though both heroines were of the new adult age and just finishing up college, they never came across as immature. Cat was a bit naive but I never found her to have that stupid youngness that many college students have. And the heroes were totally mature adult males. Yum! I'm glad we got both point of views as it helped get inside the head of the characters. This made some of their actions more understandable. I really loved that they'd all known each other for a while. The friends to lovers trope is one of my favorites. The stories were filled with enticing banter, sweet emotion and steamy sex. All the things I like in a romance book.
This author has proven once again that she has the talent and ability to write in a variety of genres. Well done!
January 24, 2016
Thanks to netgalley for the reading copy in exchange for an honst review.
First, I wasn't aware that this book actually consits of two novellas about two best friends and their way to happiness.
Maya & Jake
I really liked the intense and emotional relationship between the two. I also liked Jake a lot, I could really feel with him. My problem in this story was Maya, as I couldn't really connect with her and didn't understand her behaviour in some situations.
Cat & Dally
I kind of liked the two as well but their relationship didn't feel as deep as the one of Maya and Jake. I also liked the humour in this story, it really made me laugh several times. I didn't like how the topic of first sex was handled here.
Overall both stories were enjoyable reads and I can't say which one I liked better because both had something that bothered me a little.
First, I wasn't aware that this book actually consits of two novellas about two best friends and their way to happiness.
Maya & Jake
I really liked the intense and emotional relationship between the two. I also liked Jake a lot, I could really feel with him. My problem in this story was Maya, as I couldn't really connect with her and didn't understand her behaviour in some situations.
Cat & Dally
I kind of liked the two as well but their relationship didn't feel as deep as the one of Maya and Jake. I also liked the humour in this story, it really made me laugh several times. I didn't like how the topic of first sex was handled here.
Overall both stories were enjoyable reads and I can't say which one I liked better because both had something that bothered me a little.
November 25, 2016
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
3.5 stars out of 5
Plot: Cat and Maya are best friends, about to graduate from college; however Maya has never got along with Cat's older brother, Jake. That is until the morning they wake up in bed together (oops!) Knowing this might destroy both of their relationships with Cat, they keep it a secret and are determined it will never happen again. Until it does (again, oops!) Meanwhile, Cat wants to lose her virginity before she graduates and there is only one person she wants to lose it to - Jake's best friend, Dallas. Things are about to get a bit complicated.
My Thoughts: This is actually two stories in one. First we have Maya and Jake, and then Cat and Dallas. They do intertwine a bit, but are both separate from each other - Cat's story seems to happen shortly after Maya's, though you see all the characters throughout.
Maya and Jake hate each other (outwardly, at least) after getting off on the wrong foot years before. They are both rather surprised to find themselves waking up together after a big night and then decide that a) it can never happen again, and b) Cat can never find out. Unfortunately they can't avoid each other - though they try hard to.
We see things from both of their POVs. Jake is a firefighter and Maya seems to spend most of her time in therapy (I actually can't remember what she does, actress maybe? I could totally be making that up). I thought the way their relationship developed and progressed was cute, they're both a bit damaged emotionally and have a habit of keeping things to themselves. I did, however, think it was weird they chose to keep their relationship secret.
In the second half, Cat has decided that she wants Dallas to be her first. They live together with Jake and have done so since her parents death; and Dallas is more concerned with how Jake would react than anything else. She straight out asks him and he says no, but Cat is very persistent. She basically harasses him into it and at first that made me a bit uncomfortable, because no means no, right? So the fact that she ignored his wishes kind of pissed me off, however I couldn't help but laugh at some of their interactions (the visit to the adult shop was the highlight of the novel haha)
Despite the fact that at first the whole premise of their relationship annoyed me, I ended up preferring their story. It was just more entertaining than Maya and Jake's (though they too had their moments). Cat was pretty naive and Dallas was sweet with her (again it was dual POVs), though Jake's reaction to what he thought was going on was dumb. What a hypocritical prick. Heaven forbid someone looks at his sister sideways *rolls eyes*
In Brief: All in all this was a fun novel, though I do think it would have been better fleshed out as two full novels instead of two novellas squished together. I would have liked to have got to know the characters a bit better, as at times it felt a bit rushed and was difficult to click with them.
I've put the heat rating at 2.5, there is a bit of sex involved though not a lot (it's not erotica), but just enough for this type of story, I think.
First was my first novel by M.A. Grant and I will definitely be reading more of her work in the future!
3.5 stars out of 5
Plot: Cat and Maya are best friends, about to graduate from college; however Maya has never got along with Cat's older brother, Jake. That is until the morning they wake up in bed together (oops!) Knowing this might destroy both of their relationships with Cat, they keep it a secret and are determined it will never happen again. Until it does (again, oops!) Meanwhile, Cat wants to lose her virginity before she graduates and there is only one person she wants to lose it to - Jake's best friend, Dallas. Things are about to get a bit complicated.
My Thoughts: This is actually two stories in one. First we have Maya and Jake, and then Cat and Dallas. They do intertwine a bit, but are both separate from each other - Cat's story seems to happen shortly after Maya's, though you see all the characters throughout.
Maya and Jake hate each other (outwardly, at least) after getting off on the wrong foot years before. They are both rather surprised to find themselves waking up together after a big night and then decide that a) it can never happen again, and b) Cat can never find out. Unfortunately they can't avoid each other - though they try hard to.
We see things from both of their POVs. Jake is a firefighter and Maya seems to spend most of her time in therapy (I actually can't remember what she does, actress maybe? I could totally be making that up). I thought the way their relationship developed and progressed was cute, they're both a bit damaged emotionally and have a habit of keeping things to themselves. I did, however, think it was weird they chose to keep their relationship secret.
In the second half, Cat has decided that she wants Dallas to be her first. They live together with Jake and have done so since her parents death; and Dallas is more concerned with how Jake would react than anything else. She straight out asks him and he says no, but Cat is very persistent. She basically harasses him into it and at first that made me a bit uncomfortable, because no means no, right? So the fact that she ignored his wishes kind of pissed me off, however I couldn't help but laugh at some of their interactions (the visit to the adult shop was the highlight of the novel haha)
Despite the fact that at first the whole premise of their relationship annoyed me, I ended up preferring their story. It was just more entertaining than Maya and Jake's (though they too had their moments). Cat was pretty naive and Dallas was sweet with her (again it was dual POVs), though Jake's reaction to what he thought was going on was dumb. What a hypocritical prick. Heaven forbid someone looks at his sister sideways *rolls eyes*
In Brief: All in all this was a fun novel, though I do think it would have been better fleshed out as two full novels instead of two novellas squished together. I would have liked to have got to know the characters a bit better, as at times it felt a bit rushed and was difficult to click with them.
I've put the heat rating at 2.5, there is a bit of sex involved though not a lot (it's not erotica), but just enough for this type of story, I think.
First was my first novel by M.A. Grant and I will definitely be reading more of her work in the future!
April 14, 2018
This review was originally posted here on my blog, Ready, Set, Read!
*I received an e-copy of First by M.A. Grant through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. My opinions are my own and have not been altered in any way.*
I have really mixed views on First.
First by M.A. Grant is actually two books in one. From the synopsis, I thought that there were going to be altering chapters of each story that eventually came together. Instead, we get a full story and then right after get another full story. Because of that, I wasn't reading what I expected.
The first story is Maya and Jake's. Jake is Maya's best friends brother, and they cannot stand each other. This is your classic love-hate relationship and though I didn't necessarily like or connect to the characters, it was fun to read. Maya did frustrate me, and I think it is for that reason I enjoyed the second story more.
The second half of the book centers aroudn Cat and Dallas. Cat is the aforementioned best friend, and she is in love with her brother's best friend. I liked this a lot more just because the characters seemed much more fleshed out. Once again, I didn't really connect to the characters that much and didn't really feel for them. The premise of this plot line was a lot more fun for me in comparison to the first half.
I had two big problems that were prevalent in both the first and second half of the story. The characters just weren't fleshed out enough. There are instances where Grant touches on the character's past, but it isn't delved into as much as I would have liked. If that were to be expanded on, I think I would appreciate the characters more. Another thing that just fell short for me were the endings. Right up until the last 5 or so pages things weren't resolved. When they were, it felt lackluster because everything resolved and right after ended. I didn't get the closure I wanted.
Sorry if this review does seem more negative than positive! First fell right down the middle for me. It wasn't what I expected and I was let down by that. The story felt rushed as well as the character development, but it does show true promise of Grant's other books. Unfortunately, I wouldn't necessarily recommend this one, but I wouldn't say to never pick it up either.
With that, I give this book
2.5 Stars out of 5!
*I received an e-copy of First by M.A. Grant through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. My opinions are my own and have not been altered in any way.*
I have really mixed views on First.
First by M.A. Grant is actually two books in one. From the synopsis, I thought that there were going to be altering chapters of each story that eventually came together. Instead, we get a full story and then right after get another full story. Because of that, I wasn't reading what I expected.
The first story is Maya and Jake's. Jake is Maya's best friends brother, and they cannot stand each other. This is your classic love-hate relationship and though I didn't necessarily like or connect to the characters, it was fun to read. Maya did frustrate me, and I think it is for that reason I enjoyed the second story more.
The second half of the book centers aroudn Cat and Dallas. Cat is the aforementioned best friend, and she is in love with her brother's best friend. I liked this a lot more just because the characters seemed much more fleshed out. Once again, I didn't really connect to the characters that much and didn't really feel for them. The premise of this plot line was a lot more fun for me in comparison to the first half.
I had two big problems that were prevalent in both the first and second half of the story. The characters just weren't fleshed out enough. There are instances where Grant touches on the character's past, but it isn't delved into as much as I would have liked. If that were to be expanded on, I think I would appreciate the characters more. Another thing that just fell short for me were the endings. Right up until the last 5 or so pages things weren't resolved. When they were, it felt lackluster because everything resolved and right after ended. I didn't get the closure I wanted.
Sorry if this review does seem more negative than positive! First fell right down the middle for me. It wasn't what I expected and I was let down by that. The story felt rushed as well as the character development, but it does show true promise of Grant's other books. Unfortunately, I wouldn't necessarily recommend this one, but I wouldn't say to never pick it up either.
With that, I give this book
2.5 Stars out of 5!
March 2, 2016
Based on the synopsis and the first couple of chapters, I really wanted to like this book. On one hand you've got the story about a girl and her best friends brother, who learn that their hate for each other is actually a whole lot of sexual tension that neither would acknowledge. On the other side, you've got a short story about a girl and her brothers best friend.
My main problem with First was this: if there was a guide on how to make the most predictable and cliched New Adult book, this would be in there as the example. Every single aspect that you could possibly imagine in a book of this genre are stuffed between these covers. Best friends brother, don't know where you're at in life, unresolved past issues, saying the opposite of what you mean, shot down declarations of love, death, 'this was a mistake' sex, one of the characters is hurt provide the others to realize how much they care, etc. it was way too much going on for such a short amount of time. There were times I actually cringed from how naive one of the heroines is. I don't care how little experience you have, it sounded like she had the knowledge of a 12 year old.
The story line held promise and I was intrigued by the synopsis, I just don't think it was executed as well as it could have been. There were too many external elements and not nearly enough back story, emotion, or dialogue. The characters had no reasoning for making the decisions that they did, and little character growth was achieved. Personally, this story just didn't work for me. 2.5 Stars.
** ARC received via NetGalley for an honest review.
February 22, 2017
I received this free eARC from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
I really liked this! I loved how the author had two short stories about 4 characters, rather than one story interweaving the two story lines. I was hoping that it wouldn't be an overload of information to keep track of, but by separating them I think made the stories even better.
Jake and Maya's story was cute. They had the whole hate relationship down to a pat, but everyone could tell that their hatred was all of their lust pent up into the wrong emotion. This novel started off with a bang when Maya woke up in bed with a very naked Jake, which definitely set the tone of the novel for the reader. I think they were denying it too much and using too many excuses, but it ended well.
But I really, really liked Cat and Dallas/Dally's story. Poor Dallas really tried to keep his hands off of Cat, but she wasn't having any of that nonsense. And I laughed so hard when they went into the adult shop together! Gah! Cat's vision of her first time was ridiculous and something only found in dreams, but she is a dreamer so that makes sense. The attraction between these two were flying out of the pages and I loved every minute of it.
I think New Adult readers will devour this novel/novellas and will be left wanting more!
I really liked this! I loved how the author had two short stories about 4 characters, rather than one story interweaving the two story lines. I was hoping that it wouldn't be an overload of information to keep track of, but by separating them I think made the stories even better.
Jake and Maya's story was cute. They had the whole hate relationship down to a pat, but everyone could tell that their hatred was all of their lust pent up into the wrong emotion. This novel started off with a bang when Maya woke up in bed with a very naked Jake, which definitely set the tone of the novel for the reader. I think they were denying it too much and using too many excuses, but it ended well.
But I really, really liked Cat and Dallas/Dally's story. Poor Dallas really tried to keep his hands off of Cat, but she wasn't having any of that nonsense. And I laughed so hard when they went into the adult shop together! Gah! Cat's vision of her first time was ridiculous and something only found in dreams, but she is a dreamer so that makes sense. The attraction between these two were flying out of the pages and I loved every minute of it.
I think New Adult readers will devour this novel/novellas and will be left wanting more!
December 29, 2015
This book was perfect for what I was looking for. It was a little sweet, a little angsty and a lot hot.
A fireman, a tatted up mechanic and two girls who are strong and yet vulnerable at the same time. Of course there were going to be sparks.
I had my doubts to start off with that this would be same old, same old, but imagine my pleasant surprise when I found myself thoroughly enjoying their stories and their paths to finding love. It was funny and heart wrenching, there was action and adventure. Basically, this is a book with two stories, that despite being short, really do have it all and kept the story going. The character's antics are mesmerizing and had me thoroughly enthralled from the moment I started reading the first page.
This book was in the read now category on Netgalley, which usually means wading through some pretty dubious reads, but in this case I highly recommend reading this book, and after I've read it, I'll definitely be going back to see if I can find another diamond amongst the dirt!!!
January 25, 2016
quick easy read. It was like 2 novellas wrapped into one story. Different but connected. Funny, a good balance of angst and tugging at the heart strings. Character chemistry was great and relatable. I loved how the 4 characters were inter-related and could totally see how the best friend, little sister, roommate connections could spell disaster but also would completely happen.
Storyline(s) flowed well and I never was at a point of wanting to skim over the pages or read something else.
3.5 stars
Storyline(s) flowed well and I never was at a point of wanting to skim over the pages or read something else.
3.5 stars
March 3, 2016
This was a very well written romance/love story. I could not put this book down once I really started to get into the story, as is typical with books I wish I had time to start reading the story earlier. I could not put this book down and I am pretty sad the story is over.
The characters mad me feel for them and I enjoyed reading their journey.
The characters mad me feel for them and I enjoyed reading their journey.
January 20, 2016
I enjoyed this 2 for 1 book. It was fun, sexy and at points intense. The friendships, relationships and family in this book was beautifully written. Great read and recommend.
February 13, 2016
Maya Rayes is BFF to Cat Jacobs. Although Maya would never admit it willingly but she has a secret crush on Cat’s older brother Jake. But there’s always been this issue of control that has driven Maya crazy. She hates it.
Well you see Cat and Jake’s parents died while Cat was in high school. Jake is 5 years older than the girls. He was nineteen when they died and was at the fireman’s academy when he got the call about the accident. So, Jake was the one who took over the care of Cat with the help of his best friend Dallas (Dally) Miller. Their goal was to keep Cat safe. Maya can’t understand how they are friends. Jake is controlled and boring and Dally is funny and relaxed. So go figure.
Maya though came from a controlling father and a mother who just walked away. She has no example of what love looks like. To her Jake is just too nice, too controlled in his manners, too reserved, and too apple pie. No one can possibly be that way all the time twenty four seven. Can they? One the other hand she thinks…
He is sexier then all hell! He has a mean six pack maybe even a twelve pack. He has an ass of steel to go with it. Yet, she has to admit there are moments that Cat tells her stories of things he does that cause her heart to flutter.
But this one morning when she wakes up dreaming of Jake it seems so real. The phones ringing she’s trying to answer but can’t when she hears a male voice. It sounds so familiar. Like really familiar. In fact it sounds close too. Her brain is foggy but is trying to clear when the bed shifts and her eyes open one at a time to hone in on the voice and sure enough she knows that voice. It’s her BFF’s big brother and crush’s voice, Jake.
She shuts her eyes in hopes it’s not. When she pulls up on the sheets to look under them while he is on the phone she takes a look under. Yup! He is all naked and in all his glory. Jake! Cat’s brother! WTF! Last. Night. Cast. Party. OMG!
This portion of the story was not only funny it was emotionally charged also. It was interesting to watch the relationship unfold.
Cat Jacobs is the younger sister to Jake and best friend to Maya who is at this point secretly dating Jake.
Cat is on a mission to lose her V-card you know her virginity. Not to worry though she has the perfect candidate in her scope. She just needs to reel him in and have the “perfect storm” as they say. Who is this lucky man well, “Dallas (Dally) Miller of course.
Dally is the go to guy for Cat for everything. Especially, since her parents died. In fact when the Highway Patrol contacted her and Jake was at the fireman’s academy she called Dally. He left Arizona where he had gone once he and Jake had graduated to go work for his uncle at his garage he would one day be taking over the business.
Dally dropped everything to come care for Cat the way their parents care for him when he needed someone. He stayed on even after Jake finished the academy so he could work. He knew he was the breadwinner and had Cat to provide for and would need the help. Dallas took care of all of Cat’s daily needs and he got his own job at a garage too.
The three of them lived in the house together but being a fireman Jake had odd hours. Dally was a constant. For the most part Cat and Dally were a couple without the fringe benefits. And those he took care of other places. But now Cat was graduating from college in 6 days and Dally will be leaving to finally resume his life in Arizona. She wanted Dally to be her first. She wants it to be with someone special and someone she loved. She knew he would never feel the same but it was okay because he at least cared about her. That was enough for her.
She devises a plan and does her endless research on the internet. See how this works out for Cat. Does Dally feel anything for Cat? Or is it all one sided? Maya seems to have some really strong ideas on the subject.
I loved this story it was so cute and beyond funny. The things Cat gets herself into was hilarious. The adult shop was so funny. I just love the love and care that Dally gives her, never really getting mad at her just always showing his love for her.
I give this 5 stars. Provided by netgalley.com. Follow us at:
www.1rad-readerreviews.com.
Well you see Cat and Jake’s parents died while Cat was in high school. Jake is 5 years older than the girls. He was nineteen when they died and was at the fireman’s academy when he got the call about the accident. So, Jake was the one who took over the care of Cat with the help of his best friend Dallas (Dally) Miller. Their goal was to keep Cat safe. Maya can’t understand how they are friends. Jake is controlled and boring and Dally is funny and relaxed. So go figure.
Maya though came from a controlling father and a mother who just walked away. She has no example of what love looks like. To her Jake is just too nice, too controlled in his manners, too reserved, and too apple pie. No one can possibly be that way all the time twenty four seven. Can they? One the other hand she thinks…
He is sexier then all hell! He has a mean six pack maybe even a twelve pack. He has an ass of steel to go with it. Yet, she has to admit there are moments that Cat tells her stories of things he does that cause her heart to flutter.
But this one morning when she wakes up dreaming of Jake it seems so real. The phones ringing she’s trying to answer but can’t when she hears a male voice. It sounds so familiar. Like really familiar. In fact it sounds close too. Her brain is foggy but is trying to clear when the bed shifts and her eyes open one at a time to hone in on the voice and sure enough she knows that voice. It’s her BFF’s big brother and crush’s voice, Jake.
She shuts her eyes in hopes it’s not. When she pulls up on the sheets to look under them while he is on the phone she takes a look under. Yup! He is all naked and in all his glory. Jake! Cat’s brother! WTF! Last. Night. Cast. Party. OMG!
This portion of the story was not only funny it was emotionally charged also. It was interesting to watch the relationship unfold.
Cat Jacobs is the younger sister to Jake and best friend to Maya who is at this point secretly dating Jake.
Cat is on a mission to lose her V-card you know her virginity. Not to worry though she has the perfect candidate in her scope. She just needs to reel him in and have the “perfect storm” as they say. Who is this lucky man well, “Dallas (Dally) Miller of course.
Dally is the go to guy for Cat for everything. Especially, since her parents died. In fact when the Highway Patrol contacted her and Jake was at the fireman’s academy she called Dally. He left Arizona where he had gone once he and Jake had graduated to go work for his uncle at his garage he would one day be taking over the business.
Dally dropped everything to come care for Cat the way their parents care for him when he needed someone. He stayed on even after Jake finished the academy so he could work. He knew he was the breadwinner and had Cat to provide for and would need the help. Dallas took care of all of Cat’s daily needs and he got his own job at a garage too.
The three of them lived in the house together but being a fireman Jake had odd hours. Dally was a constant. For the most part Cat and Dally were a couple without the fringe benefits. And those he took care of other places. But now Cat was graduating from college in 6 days and Dally will be leaving to finally resume his life in Arizona. She wanted Dally to be her first. She wants it to be with someone special and someone she loved. She knew he would never feel the same but it was okay because he at least cared about her. That was enough for her.
She devises a plan and does her endless research on the internet. See how this works out for Cat. Does Dally feel anything for Cat? Or is it all one sided? Maya seems to have some really strong ideas on the subject.
I loved this story it was so cute and beyond funny. The things Cat gets herself into was hilarious. The adult shop was so funny. I just love the love and care that Dally gives her, never really getting mad at her just always showing his love for her.
I give this 5 stars. Provided by netgalley.com. Follow us at:
www.1rad-readerreviews.com.
April 29, 2016
Para leer la versión en español visita: http://blogbetweenbooks.blogspot.com/...
To see all my reviews please visit: http://blogbetweenbooks.blogspot.com
**I received a copy through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review**
*4/5 stars*
Two stories, one book.
It’s a little difficult to do this, so let's see how this ends…
This is one book with two stories, not so different, but at the end they're distinct stories. As a short introduction, Maya and Cat are best friends, Jake and Dallas are best friends, Cat and Jake are siblings. The book takes place years after Jake and Cat's parents' death. In the first story this fact is always present somehow, and in the second is just the opposite.
First book, Maya and Jake’s.
This begins when Maya wakes after a drunken night and with a boy beside her, who’s none other than her best friend’s brother, Jake; Maya and Jake hate each other and even though their relationship is a hate/love one, they admit that sleeping together can ruin their relationship, in particular with Cat, which is why it cannot happen again.
However, they can’t deny and neither hide that they feel attracted. After this event both try to avoid each other, but having Cat between them, they cannot do it at all, and as the story goes we see the obvious sexual tension that exists.
After Jake’s parents’ death, he became in a firefighter so he could take properly care of her little sister, giving her all what she needs. Somehow, Maya always throw it in Jake's face, and ends putting to Cat as an "but" of why their relation cannot, or shouldn't, happen, although are Maya's fears which don't allow her accept her love for Jake. When Jake already did.
In my opinion, the character of Maya isn't very nice, she's rather annoying, and the fact she acts like a b***h with Jake just made me don't like her more.
But anyway, in this story we see how Maya and Jake discover/accept the love that always was there, but not when they expected it.
Book two, Cat and Dalla’s
Dallas is Cat's brother's best friend, and for whom she has always had a crush, at the same time, Dallas has also had one for her from the beginning, but he doesn't let us see as obvious as Cat. After her parents' death, Dallas moved out with them to
helped Jake to take care of her. In the first story, we see to Dallas and Cat being so affectionate and flirtatious with each other, even in front of Jake, but he seems don't think is something more than just a game.
In short, Cat is about to graduate college and before it happens she wants to lose her V-card, is why the story takes place with Cat wanting to lose it and choosing Dallas to "help" her. Dallas knows that if Jake finds it out he'll kill him for touch his little sister in that way, but she keeps saying him that Jake doesn't have to know and that no friendship would be ruined. Cat is very stubborn, and Dallas is tempted, as the same author describes and it's easy to see.
See Cat trying to make him change his mind truly enjoyed me, BUT for my liking she seemed a little too desperate to achieve it. Although I accept that I loved their story, I think it should be longer than half book, or at least with an epilogue, so I really feel it was missing something.
First, is the first book I've read by M.A. Grant, the truth is I think the synopsis tells too much, it might have been better if she let more things in the shadows, but whatever... I also had a love/hate feeling for this book, I enjoyed it but at the same I hated some parts of it, and I think because of this it took me so long to write this review.
All in all, both girls are about to graduate college so they know their lives will take a new path, although they're not so sure which it would be, also there are decisions and some risks they might take. The book is about the future, friendship and, of course, love.
If you like the New Adult, this is a book you might like and enjoy.
To see all my reviews please visit: http://blogbetweenbooks.blogspot.com
**I received a copy through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review**
*4/5 stars*
Two stories, one book.
It’s a little difficult to do this, so let's see how this ends…
This is one book with two stories, not so different, but at the end they're distinct stories. As a short introduction, Maya and Cat are best friends, Jake and Dallas are best friends, Cat and Jake are siblings. The book takes place years after Jake and Cat's parents' death. In the first story this fact is always present somehow, and in the second is just the opposite.
First book, Maya and Jake’s.
This begins when Maya wakes after a drunken night and with a boy beside her, who’s none other than her best friend’s brother, Jake; Maya and Jake hate each other and even though their relationship is a hate/love one, they admit that sleeping together can ruin their relationship, in particular with Cat, which is why it cannot happen again.
However, they can’t deny and neither hide that they feel attracted. After this event both try to avoid each other, but having Cat between them, they cannot do it at all, and as the story goes we see the obvious sexual tension that exists.
After Jake’s parents’ death, he became in a firefighter so he could take properly care of her little sister, giving her all what she needs. Somehow, Maya always throw it in Jake's face, and ends putting to Cat as an "but" of why their relation cannot, or shouldn't, happen, although are Maya's fears which don't allow her accept her love for Jake. When Jake already did.
In my opinion, the character of Maya isn't very nice, she's rather annoying, and the fact she acts like a b***h with Jake just made me don't like her more.
But anyway, in this story we see how Maya and Jake discover/accept the love that always was there, but not when they expected it.
Book two, Cat and Dalla’s
Dallas is Cat's brother's best friend, and for whom she has always had a crush, at the same time, Dallas has also had one for her from the beginning, but he doesn't let us see as obvious as Cat. After her parents' death, Dallas moved out with them to
helped Jake to take care of her. In the first story, we see to Dallas and Cat being so affectionate and flirtatious with each other, even in front of Jake, but he seems don't think is something more than just a game.
In short, Cat is about to graduate college and before it happens she wants to lose her V-card, is why the story takes place with Cat wanting to lose it and choosing Dallas to "help" her. Dallas knows that if Jake finds it out he'll kill him for touch his little sister in that way, but she keeps saying him that Jake doesn't have to know and that no friendship would be ruined. Cat is very stubborn, and Dallas is tempted, as the same author describes and it's easy to see.
See Cat trying to make him change his mind truly enjoyed me, BUT for my liking she seemed a little too desperate to achieve it. Although I accept that I loved their story, I think it should be longer than half book, or at least with an epilogue, so I really feel it was missing something.
First, is the first book I've read by M.A. Grant, the truth is I think the synopsis tells too much, it might have been better if she let more things in the shadows, but whatever... I also had a love/hate feeling for this book, I enjoyed it but at the same I hated some parts of it, and I think because of this it took me so long to write this review.
All in all, both girls are about to graduate college so they know their lives will take a new path, although they're not so sure which it would be, also there are decisions and some risks they might take. The book is about the future, friendship and, of course, love.
If you like the New Adult, this is a book you might like and enjoy.
December 27, 2015
*I received a copy of First from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review*
4.5 stars
First,
For those of you who knows me well, you may not be surprised to know that I am a huge "romance-holic", and I do behave like a vulture scavenging the romance section every single time I visited the book store. Therefore, how could I pass up on the opportunity when I stumbled upon such an irresistible cover filled with promising romance? Boy, I wasn't disappointed. Major plus points for the steamy cover!
This is the first time I ever read anything from M.A. Grant, and her writing style captivated me almost instantly with the opening paragraph. I fell in love with all of the characters from the first page. It was amazing that the author managed to weave a romantic story in just 125 pages and making the readers (well, me, mostly) felt as if we have known the characters as much as those that we took 365 pages to understand. Despite the short length of the novel, especially when it was sectioned into both Maya and Jake's story and continued with Dallas and Cat's later on, there wasn't a moment that felt wasted. The story was that good.
The only negative point for me was the ending for both Maya and Jake's story, it felt a bit rushed in comparison with Dallas and Cat's, but I do appreciate that the author saved me from the elaborated drama that makes up most of the romance novels' plot. Due to that, it was one of the points that made First stood out for me. Additionally, the sexual innuendos were not overdone in the book and it was just present in the right amount to spark up the tension, coupled with humour, this book was just the perfect blend.
I was shocked at how Maya and Jake's story ended, I never thought for it to be that short. Of course I needed more and how I wished their stories were told in two separate books, however it was undeniable that the book was perfect in its own way. I harboured a huge crush on Dallas because, well let's get real, who doesn't love a mechanic with tattoos? I could also relate to Dallas and Cat's story because my boyfriend and I started off as best friends, therefore their love held much more depth than it may originally seemed from the blurb.
I won't label this as a short read, in fact, I highly recommend this book to those who are seeking an impactful romance novel. No there weren't any protagonists' deaths or terminal illnesses, but it was the simplicity of the story that seemed hard to come by these days. This book definitely is the first of M.A. Grant's books and looking forward to read more of her works in the future!
Happy reading.
4.5 stars
First,
For those of you who knows me well, you may not be surprised to know that I am a huge "romance-holic", and I do behave like a vulture scavenging the romance section every single time I visited the book store. Therefore, how could I pass up on the opportunity when I stumbled upon such an irresistible cover filled with promising romance? Boy, I wasn't disappointed. Major plus points for the steamy cover!
This is the first time I ever read anything from M.A. Grant, and her writing style captivated me almost instantly with the opening paragraph. I fell in love with all of the characters from the first page. It was amazing that the author managed to weave a romantic story in just 125 pages and making the readers (well, me, mostly) felt as if we have known the characters as much as those that we took 365 pages to understand. Despite the short length of the novel, especially when it was sectioned into both Maya and Jake's story and continued with Dallas and Cat's later on, there wasn't a moment that felt wasted. The story was that good.
The only negative point for me was the ending for both Maya and Jake's story, it felt a bit rushed in comparison with Dallas and Cat's, but I do appreciate that the author saved me from the elaborated drama that makes up most of the romance novels' plot. Due to that, it was one of the points that made First stood out for me. Additionally, the sexual innuendos were not overdone in the book and it was just present in the right amount to spark up the tension, coupled with humour, this book was just the perfect blend.
I was shocked at how Maya and Jake's story ended, I never thought for it to be that short. Of course I needed more and how I wished their stories were told in two separate books, however it was undeniable that the book was perfect in its own way. I harboured a huge crush on Dallas because, well let's get real, who doesn't love a mechanic with tattoos? I could also relate to Dallas and Cat's story because my boyfriend and I started off as best friends, therefore their love held much more depth than it may originally seemed from the blurb.
I won't label this as a short read, in fact, I highly recommend this book to those who are seeking an impactful romance novel. No there weren't any protagonists' deaths or terminal illnesses, but it was the simplicity of the story that seemed hard to come by these days. This book definitely is the first of M.A. Grant's books and looking forward to read more of her works in the future!
Happy reading.
January 11, 2016
Rating: 4.5 Stars
Genre: New Adult Romance
‘First’ is the first book by M.A Grant that I have read, and I am happy to say I was pleasantly surprised. This book is kind of two novellas in one, but focussing on the same characters and theme. Cat and Maya are two best friends, and each part of the book focusses on one of the girls and their love story with the guy in their life.
Maya wakes up one morning in bed with Cat’s brother, who she has secretly been pining after for years. After agreeing not to tell Cat what happened, the two struggle to avoid each other and quickly fall into a secret romance affair. I really loved this part of the book. The catch and chase romance really drew me in and I found myself not being able to put the book down. I also really loved that Cat has a psychologist, and we get to see into her therapy sessions with her therapist. This is something that is hardly ever touched on in novels, and I love that this was included because it made her feel so much more human than the ‘perfect woman’.
The second story is about Cat. She’s nearly graduating from college and wants to lose her virginity before that happens. She choses her brother’s best friend and fellow roommate, Dallas, as the lucky guy but the catch is he’s not willing to do that with his best mate’s little sister. Cat has a fun time trying to convince him to take the plunge, and trying to find another willing candidate to help her accomplish her goal. Personally, I found it a little weird she so desperately wanted to lose it before college finished. I didn’t get what the big deal was, but for the purpose of the story it makes sense.
I feel like this part was written first as the name of the book is ‘First’ and she’s looking for her first lover. It wasn’t as ‘forbidden love’ or ‘catch and chase’ as the first book, so there was less tension and angst. The car scene at the end was also kind of out of the blue, and I felt the book ended too quickly and probably could have had more too it. The book ended really sweetly though and I found I thoroughly enjoyed it.
The editing of both parts was done exceptionally well. I think I only noticed one spelling/grammar mistake in the whole book. The writing flowed really well and it drew you in and made you want more. I will probably read another of M.A Grant’s books in the future.
I was kindly provided this book by Escape Publishing in exchange for an honest review. This did not affect my view or opinions of the book.
Genre: New Adult Romance
‘First’ is the first book by M.A Grant that I have read, and I am happy to say I was pleasantly surprised. This book is kind of two novellas in one, but focussing on the same characters and theme. Cat and Maya are two best friends, and each part of the book focusses on one of the girls and their love story with the guy in their life.
Maya wakes up one morning in bed with Cat’s brother, who she has secretly been pining after for years. After agreeing not to tell Cat what happened, the two struggle to avoid each other and quickly fall into a secret romance affair. I really loved this part of the book. The catch and chase romance really drew me in and I found myself not being able to put the book down. I also really loved that Cat has a psychologist, and we get to see into her therapy sessions with her therapist. This is something that is hardly ever touched on in novels, and I love that this was included because it made her feel so much more human than the ‘perfect woman’.
The second story is about Cat. She’s nearly graduating from college and wants to lose her virginity before that happens. She choses her brother’s best friend and fellow roommate, Dallas, as the lucky guy but the catch is he’s not willing to do that with his best mate’s little sister. Cat has a fun time trying to convince him to take the plunge, and trying to find another willing candidate to help her accomplish her goal. Personally, I found it a little weird she so desperately wanted to lose it before college finished. I didn’t get what the big deal was, but for the purpose of the story it makes sense.
I feel like this part was written first as the name of the book is ‘First’ and she’s looking for her first lover. It wasn’t as ‘forbidden love’ or ‘catch and chase’ as the first book, so there was less tension and angst. The car scene at the end was also kind of out of the blue, and I felt the book ended too quickly and probably could have had more too it. The book ended really sweetly though and I found I thoroughly enjoyed it.
The editing of both parts was done exceptionally well. I think I only noticed one spelling/grammar mistake in the whole book. The writing flowed really well and it drew you in and made you want more. I will probably read another of M.A Grant’s books in the future.
I was kindly provided this book by Escape Publishing in exchange for an honest review. This did not affect my view or opinions of the book.
February 9, 2016
5 STARS!!!
ARC kindly provided by publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
This book was Amazing!!! I loved, loved, loved it!! So much so that I stayed up til 4 am to finish it knowing I needed to be up by 7 am. It was worth every lost minute of sleep! Trust me! That good. I have been in sort of a book rut lately. Almost like I had to force myself to read a couple of my latest book. So glad this book brought back my book mojo!! My only complaint about the entire book was that I wanted more! I seriously would have been completely fine with several more hours of reading material being added to both of these stories. Maybe, a second book....a sequel to give us reading More...maybe?? Just dropping that hint out there. Lol.
The first half of the book follows Maya and Jake. Maya is about 22 and Jake is around 27 or so. Jake is Maya's best friend's older brother. They pretty much hate each other. Or they think they do until one drunken night awakens something in the both of them that neither new could be there. Really great read. You are also introduced to Cat and Dallas in this fist story. They are your main characters in the next story. Maya and Cat are best friends. Jake and Dallas are best friends. Just to give you an idea of how it's all linked. I enjoyed Cat and Dallas' story more, but not by too much. I'd give Jake and Maya 4.5 stars and Cat and Dallas a solid 5. Great chemistry between a these characters. The banter is great. It had my smiling and laughing out loud in serval parts. Put this on your to read list. I read the entire book in about 5 hours, so it is short, but so worth it. Thanks again for the ARC! Will definitely look for more books by this author!
ARC kindly provided by publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
This book was Amazing!!! I loved, loved, loved it!! So much so that I stayed up til 4 am to finish it knowing I needed to be up by 7 am. It was worth every lost minute of sleep! Trust me! That good. I have been in sort of a book rut lately. Almost like I had to force myself to read a couple of my latest book. So glad this book brought back my book mojo!! My only complaint about the entire book was that I wanted more! I seriously would have been completely fine with several more hours of reading material being added to both of these stories. Maybe, a second book....a sequel to give us reading More...maybe?? Just dropping that hint out there. Lol.
The first half of the book follows Maya and Jake. Maya is about 22 and Jake is around 27 or so. Jake is Maya's best friend's older brother. They pretty much hate each other. Or they think they do until one drunken night awakens something in the both of them that neither new could be there. Really great read. You are also introduced to Cat and Dallas in this fist story. They are your main characters in the next story. Maya and Cat are best friends. Jake and Dallas are best friends. Just to give you an idea of how it's all linked. I enjoyed Cat and Dallas' story more, but not by too much. I'd give Jake and Maya 4.5 stars and Cat and Dallas a solid 5. Great chemistry between a these characters. The banter is great. It had my smiling and laughing out loud in serval parts. Put this on your to read list. I read the entire book in about 5 hours, so it is short, but so worth it. Thanks again for the ARC! Will definitely look for more books by this author!
January 18, 2016
This is my first M.A. Grant title, and I found it to be a very good romance! The book really functions as two novellas tied together by common/related characters.
The beginning focuses on Maya and the book begins when she wakes up in bed with her best friend Cat's big brother. The couple decides it is never going to happen again; but despite their best attempts to move on, they keep gravitating toward each other.
I really enjoyed this part of the book because the characters were better developed. The reader understands why Maya doesn't "want" to be with someone like Jake. Yet we all secretly know that they will be great together.
The focus in the second half switches to Cat. She's been pining away for her big brother's best friend Dallas. She sees her pesky virginity as something to quickly get rid of now that she's about to graduate college, and she thinks Dallas is just the man to help her. When it seems unlikely that he'll help her, she tries to move on to another (less-desirable) target with less than successful results.
If I was really critical, I would say that the first half was way better developed than the second half, but I found the entire book enjoyable. I think the first half would function well as a stand alone while the latter works best as a novella.
I received an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
The beginning focuses on Maya and the book begins when she wakes up in bed with her best friend Cat's big brother. The couple decides it is never going to happen again; but despite their best attempts to move on, they keep gravitating toward each other.
I really enjoyed this part of the book because the characters were better developed. The reader understands why Maya doesn't "want" to be with someone like Jake. Yet we all secretly know that they will be great together.
The focus in the second half switches to Cat. She's been pining away for her big brother's best friend Dallas. She sees her pesky virginity as something to quickly get rid of now that she's about to graduate college, and she thinks Dallas is just the man to help her. When it seems unlikely that he'll help her, she tries to move on to another (less-desirable) target with less than successful results.
If I was really critical, I would say that the first half was way better developed than the second half, but I found the entire book enjoyable. I think the first half would function well as a stand alone while the latter works best as a novella.
I received an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
January 10, 2017
First by M.A. Grant was truly great. This story is of two best friends who have been through the ringer emotionally in their short lives. Maya had a rough upbringing with a militant father and a mother who abandoned her. Love, to Maya, is the enemy. When she wakes up one morning with her best friend's brother, Maya isn't sure what to do except run. She and Jake hate each other, don't they?
Meanwhile, Jake's baby sister Cat is trying to convince his best friend that she isn't just the little sister. Jake's lifelong friend Dallas dropped everything to help care for Cat when her and Jake's parents died in a tragic car accident several years ago. Dallas has been living with the brother and sister ever since, with little Cat keeping a close watch over the tattooed, motorcycle riding hunk. With college commencement quickly approaching, the time where Dallas will finally be free to move on with his life, can Cat convince him to give her a shot? Little does she know just how deep Dally's feelings for her run.
I devoured this novel in less than a day. I will certainly look forward to reading more of Grant's works in the future. I received this book for free in exchange for my honest feedback.
Meanwhile, Jake's baby sister Cat is trying to convince his best friend that she isn't just the little sister. Jake's lifelong friend Dallas dropped everything to help care for Cat when her and Jake's parents died in a tragic car accident several years ago. Dallas has been living with the brother and sister ever since, with little Cat keeping a close watch over the tattooed, motorcycle riding hunk. With college commencement quickly approaching, the time where Dallas will finally be free to move on with his life, can Cat convince him to give her a shot? Little does she know just how deep Dally's feelings for her run.
I devoured this novel in less than a day. I will certainly look forward to reading more of Grant's works in the future. I received this book for free in exchange for my honest feedback.
January 29, 2016
Read via Netgalley
This book was two novellas.
The first one was about Maya and Jack. They know each other forever, cause Jack is the brother of Maya's best friend.
Their storie was difficult to believed. Why? because they say they dont like each other, they always fight, but we cannot see that. We just see them having sex and liking each other, so it was difficult to believe what they were saying. I think it would have been better if the author showed us the "before" the why they didn't like each other.
The second story is about Cat and Dally. This one was more sweet. Dally is Jack best friend, so he knows Cat forever too. Cat is a virgin who want to get rid of her V card and she wants to do it with Dally, but Dally doesn't want to do it, because he is loyal to Jack and doesnt want to ruin their friendship, even if Dally have feeling for Cat. So, a back and forth, Jack realises what is going on and threw Dally out of the house ( they all live together) . Dally have to go to Alabama to take care of her uncle's bussines, so he leaves.
The ending of the two stories was too rush, i didn't enjoy it.
The book had sweet moments, but i think it could have been way more good.
This book was two novellas.
The first one was about Maya and Jack. They know each other forever, cause Jack is the brother of Maya's best friend.
Their storie was difficult to believed. Why? because they say they dont like each other, they always fight, but we cannot see that. We just see them having sex and liking each other, so it was difficult to believe what they were saying. I think it would have been better if the author showed us the "before" the why they didn't like each other.
The second story is about Cat and Dally. This one was more sweet. Dally is Jack best friend, so he knows Cat forever too. Cat is a virgin who want to get rid of her V card and she wants to do it with Dally, but Dally doesn't want to do it, because he is loyal to Jack and doesnt want to ruin their friendship, even if Dally have feeling for Cat. So, a back and forth, Jack realises what is going on and threw Dally out of the house ( they all live together) . Dally have to go to Alabama to take care of her uncle's bussines, so he leaves.
The ending of the two stories was too rush, i didn't enjoy it.
The book had sweet moments, but i think it could have been way more good.
January 6, 2016
This was a surprise read that really brought a smile to my face. Surprise in that I have been moving away from the YA reads lately as they were all coming across too similar but not in this case. From the start I relished the read and before I knew it I was halfway through the book. Maya and Jake had many hurdles to overcome and the heat emanating from the characters was combustible! Fiery chemistry and all round fabulous reading from the start with these two characters. Take two in the story we have Cat and Dally. Dallas was all heart from the start of the book and Cat started to shine after the halfway point.
Their initial dialogue and inner monologue (especially Dallas) was hilarious and had me in stitches so many times! I loved this book and it's characters all the way through . Well the four focal characters of Jake, Maya, Dallas and Cat to the point. The only downside to the story - I didn't want the story to finish lol :)
All in all First by M.A. Grant was a read I'm glad I didn't miss.
Review copy kindly received from the Publisher
Their initial dialogue and inner monologue (especially Dallas) was hilarious and had me in stitches so many times! I loved this book and it's characters all the way through . Well the four focal characters of Jake, Maya, Dallas and Cat to the point. The only downside to the story - I didn't want the story to finish lol :)
All in all First by M.A. Grant was a read I'm glad I didn't miss.
Review copy kindly received from the Publisher
January 10, 2016
This is actually 2 books for the price of 1. The first book is about Maya and Jake. The second book is about her best friend Cat and Dallas, Jake's best friend. Such a treat to read these together!
Maya and Jake have known each other a while. Maya is best friends with his sister, Cat. Maya and Jake usually fight due to the denied chemistry between them. The sparks just fly when they are in the same room.
Cat and Dallas live together. He moved in to help her brother and his best friend, Jake. Cat has decided she wants to lose her virginity to him and chases after Dallas. He does not want to take advantage of her. He knows Jake would kill him. Do they stand a chance?
These books were so much fun to read. I could NOT put them down. The heat and sexy times were good. The characters were complex and fun. I enjoyed this book and cannot wait to see what this author has next!
***This ARC copy was given by Netgalley.com and its publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Maya and Jake have known each other a while. Maya is best friends with his sister, Cat. Maya and Jake usually fight due to the denied chemistry between them. The sparks just fly when they are in the same room.
Cat and Dallas live together. He moved in to help her brother and his best friend, Jake. Cat has decided she wants to lose her virginity to him and chases after Dallas. He does not want to take advantage of her. He knows Jake would kill him. Do they stand a chance?
These books were so much fun to read. I could NOT put them down. The heat and sexy times were good. The characters were complex and fun. I enjoyed this book and cannot wait to see what this author has next!
***This ARC copy was given by Netgalley.com and its publisher in exchange for an honest review.
January 7, 2016
Two novella's in 1 book.
Jake and Maya their story is like a high school love story. Boy hates girl, girl hates boy. However deep inside they both have feelings for one another.
They are always fighting. When they aren't they actually get along nicely.
Kind of has that forbidden romance feeling because Jake is Maya's best friend's brother. We all know sometimes that is a rule breaker.
Dallas and Cat!! I thought when I read about them in Jake and Maya's story they were already together. Nope I was so wrong. Their story had just started. You get more details on how they hooked up. Again a forbidden romance. Dallas is Jake's best friend. When Dallas leaves town and Cat finds Maya at Jake's hell breaks out for a bit. Cat and Maya both tell Jake there is a double standard. It is fine for Jake to date Maya but not fine for Cat to date Dallas.
For these 2 girls being in college I believe it was, they act kind of high schoolish!!
Quick easy read.
Jake and Maya their story is like a high school love story. Boy hates girl, girl hates boy. However deep inside they both have feelings for one another.
They are always fighting. When they aren't they actually get along nicely.
Kind of has that forbidden romance feeling because Jake is Maya's best friend's brother. We all know sometimes that is a rule breaker.
Dallas and Cat!! I thought when I read about them in Jake and Maya's story they were already together. Nope I was so wrong. Their story had just started. You get more details on how they hooked up. Again a forbidden romance. Dallas is Jake's best friend. When Dallas leaves town and Cat finds Maya at Jake's hell breaks out for a bit. Cat and Maya both tell Jake there is a double standard. It is fine for Jake to date Maya but not fine for Cat to date Dallas.
For these 2 girls being in college I believe it was, they act kind of high schoolish!!
Quick easy read.
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