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In the Pursuit of Charity

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He expected her to recognize him.
He expected her to be seduced by his charms.
He expected her to fall for him.
Expectations are a funny thing …

When his parents named him Herbert Lincoln James, they already had expectations that Linc would attend an ivy league university and go into politics. Linc didn't. As captain of his swim team, he was expected to win the big relay to carry his swim team to the state championship for the first time in decades. Linc didn’t. Society expected him to walk past her. He couldn’t.

She expected him to see through her.
She expected him to make her into a joke.
She expected him to be cruel.
Expectations are a funny thing …

176 pages, Paperback

First published June 8, 2017

60 people are currently reading
383 people want to read

About the author

Alexandria Sure

8 books998 followers
Alexandria Sure is from Michigan and adores her supportive family, her two rescue pups, and her mighty Spartans. Her coffee obsession leads her to writing in local coffee shops where characters come alive between salted caramel lattes and large cups of "cold brew extra cream two Splenda," which are usually on the counter when she walks in because the baristas know her car. (Thanks, Biggby!)

When she is not writing, she spends a great deal of her time perfecting her craft. She is an active member of Capital City Writers Association and attends several writing conferences each year.

Sure's first novel, Before Him Comes Me, is an unconventional romance of self-discovery, described by readers as "the first BDSM book with no sex."


https://alexandriasure.com/

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 113 reviews
Profile Image for Philomena Callan Cheekypee.
4,020 reviews432 followers
July 20, 2018
This is my second read by this author and I loved it just as much as I loved the previous book.

I absolutely loved Linc and Alexis story. Both characters felt so read with real life topics that made this story into a well written relatable story for many. I was really rooting for Linc and Alexis.

This is a lovely romantic story. This is a truly lovely read. I can’t wait to read more from this author.
Profile Image for Christine.
457 reviews29 followers
June 27, 2017
In the Pursuit of Charity by Alexandria Sure is a sweet love story between two unexpected soon to be graduated college students. Told in the male POV of Linc this story is emotional and thought provoking. Linc's family has a plan for him but now that he's almost finished school the last thing he wants to do is follow his mother's plan. Not in his plan is Alexis and he can't stop thinking about her. Alexis is shocked by the attention and can't understand why Linc wants to spend time with her let alone find her beautiful. Linc's friends and mother don't agree with his pursuit of Alexis but against the odds, he's fallen for her but can he show her his intentions are true?

After I finished this story I sat and asked "was it meant to finish like that?" so be prepared for a small cliffhanger. This is a prequel story and I can't wait for the next installment/conclusion to Linc & Alexis story. I loved this unconventional love story and felt drawn to Alexis character and saw so many similarities to myself. It's not often I get a chance to read a story with a Plus Size lead who's the love interest and I loved it! The connection between the two leads drew me into the story and I couldn't put it down. I can't wait to see what happens to these characters and where this all leads. 4 Stars for In the Pursuit of Charity by Alexandria Sure

*** Reviewed for Sweet & Spicy Reads - ARC provided for an honest review ***
Profile Image for Amber.
627 reviews3 followers
July 13, 2017
Another amazing read by new author, Alexandria Sure. I really love her writing style thus far. In the Pursuit of Charity, Alexandria brings us a topics not much people like to talk about; weight, self esteem, failure. You can't help but fall for these characters and their situations. On some level most people are able to relate to these characters. My heart really went out to Linc, especially at the end. I ran out of words and I wanted so much more! I really loved Linc and Alexis' story and can't wait to devour more of it. This is another top read for 2017, I highly recommend you pick this one up, you wont be sorry.
Profile Image for Amy.
389 reviews7 followers
June 30, 2017
Loved this story! I can see where Alexis is coming from being a plus size woman myself. People are cruel. She stays to herself. Linc is an athlete and very in shape. So therefore he has never associated with someone like her before. His friends are jerks! Just a really fantastic college age love story! Definitely can't wait to see what's next for this author! I would definitely recommend this book to all of my friends.
437 reviews6 followers
June 25, 2017
This is the first book I have read from the author and I can not wait to see where this story ends.

Linc is the captain of the swim team. There are rules to be followed. Social standards, social acceptances. What happens when those social rules are not followed?

Alexia hears all the jokes about her weight. Puts on a brave face. Smiles and carries on. Why is he talking to her? Is this another joke at her expense?

Whatever their feelings for each other, will the social cliques. The boundaries set in High School and College get in their way?

I so need to read the next book. I need to know what happens to Linc and Alexia. This story can not be left like this.
Profile Image for Karen Hrdlicka.
1,347 reviews27 followers
June 21, 2017
This is the first work I've read by Alexandria Sure and I really want to go back now and read her first book. Her style and characters draw the reader into the book, and while you may think you've read a story like this before; you haven't. Ms. Sure's book is one of those books that speak directly to your heart. I'm a big fan of the underdog in books. In essence both Linc and Alexis are underdogs, fighting stereotypes of who they appear to be. Linc is the privileged jock who can have his pick of women and Alexis the plus-sized girl that no one seems to have a problem saying rude things to and about.
While we all know life takes unpredicted turns. Linc is not prepared when he is exposed to Alexis' voice while on a date with a Barbie-bimbo. When he finally meets her his heart sees her for who she is : a studious, beautiful woman, with an amazing laugh and smile. However, the woman has high walls to scale before she will open up to Linc.
Avoiding spoilers: What follows is a well-paced story of an unexpected but beautiful relationship. I love books I can relate to, and I can relate to Alexis' character. Being plus-sized in our world is still a stigma, and people see nothing wrong with voicing their assine options about a person's weight. It's no wonder that women of size are goal and career oriented because society shows us that our HEA isn't a reality.
I loved the characters, especially Linc's internal dialogues and forehead smacks. I loved the relationships: Linc and his sister, Joanne and Alexis, Izzy and Linc and even Linc with his butthead friends. I loved the writing style and the pace of the book, but most of all I loved the budding relationship between Linc and Alexis. There are lots of unexpected turns in this book and I can't wait to read more by this author.
Profile Image for Chantelle Smith.
215 reviews15 followers
July 2, 2017
Herbert Lincoln James had many expectations set out for him from his parents, attend an Ivy League University and go into politics, but Linc didn’t do that. He was also expected to win the relay race for the state championship with his swim team, but Linc didn’t do that either. But with the society and the crowd of friends Linc hung around with, he was expected to walk past her and ignore her, but he couldn’t.
But he had expectations of his own, he expected her to fall for his charms, he expected her to fall for him but expectations are a funny thing because she didn’t do anything he expected her to do.
But she has expectations as well, she expected Lin to be cruel just like his friends were, she also expected him to see right through her as though she never existed and most importantly she expected him to make her into a joke. Once again Expectations can be a funny thing.

In the Pursuit of Charity is a novel by author Alexandria Sure. This is my first read from this author and I’d love to see what other great reads she brings us.

I loved the idea of this story, and loved the characters especially when its centred around something that doesn’t really get put into book that often (especially ones I have read) let alone being a main character. But I did find it hard to get into and found it kind of slow. But after a while I really started to enjoy the dynamic and developing connection between the two main characters.

This book had a great deal of emotions from the characters that as the reader I could truly feel, such as; heartache, love, acceptance, anger, frustration. I’ve laughed, smiled, been sad from this book and was made frustrated and angry with the cliff-hanger ending that the author gave us. This book had some great scene between these two main characters and I loved reading their interactions with each other. I love how they met, the determination that Linc had at getting her to notice him. I liked how they spent their time together and how under the circumstances and even the friends that Linc had showed no support, that Linc was still determined to make things right for and with her. That is how real they were when they were around each other, they could tell each other things and not have to worry about being judged. These characters have an undeniable connection that is new, real, fresh and beautiful as both characters are inside and out! I couldn’t stop smiling throughout the book with seeing their connection blossom and change.

This did also have some scenes in which I was shouting at the characters because I couldn’t believe how he was wording things to her, I know it was nerves and that made me nervous for both of them.

I liked that we got to see Linc have interactions with sister, you can really tell how close they are together even though geographically they were far apart. They both had an understanding with each other about what their parents really know. That’s also something I’m glad we got to see. From the synopsis, you can tell how strong and powerful Linc parents think they are in their son’s life. His parents are clearly expecting him to do great things, but I like that Linc makes his own his choices, and lives with them. You can tell from one phone call that his Dad see’s things in a different way, and allows Linc to make the decisions unlike his mum, who still wants continues control over his life and decisions.

I loved the chemistry that these two characters had. Once she finally stopped fighting the effort Linc was making these two had a developing relationship that was real and so much better than could have expected. They help each other come to decisions neither could decide on their own, supported each other through the hard times, but also knew when to let go when wings were meant to be spread!


These two characters were the most real developing relationship I have read in a while. It was hard seeing how other people portray her, and the things that they would say, but there are also people like Linc that see past that and see the personality and the beauty inside.

For a fresh, real and raw college romance, don’t miss this quick lovable read that captures your heart.
Profile Image for Angela.
8,598 reviews121 followers
July 9, 2017
4 Stars

In the Pursuit of Charity is a New Adult/ college romance by Alexandria Sure.
The story introduces us to Herbert Lincoln James (Linc) who has lived his life with enormous expectations thrust on him and the pressure of living up to them. But life doesn’t always go according to plan and you can’t always live up to expectations. This is why Linc feels like he has let everyone down. He can’t fulfil the expectations of him, but he also doesn’t know what he wants to do after college.
He meets and falls for a girl who is not what his family or society expects him to be with. If he followed expectation, he would walk right past her, never noticing her at all. But he does notice her and is very taken with her. But she is quite sceptical of his attention and intentions, as her past experiences have caused her a lot of pain and left her with trust issues. But Linc is determined to prove his feelings for her are real and that she can trust him. Will he be able to break through the barriers she has erected around her heart? Will they find a way to overcome the expectations and obstacles that come their way? Or will they succumb to the expectations placed on them?
This is the first time I have read a book by Ms. Sure and I am happy to say that she did not disappoint me. She writes beautifully, capturing a lot of emotion in her story and giving us a plot and characters that stand out from a lot of other novels in the same genre.
I don’t want to say too much without giving away some major spoilers. But I loved the underlying message of the book, about expectations and the pressure that can cause, about letting society dictate how we live our lives- sometimes for the better but that isn’t always the case, and about not judging a book by its cover, and of not making assumptions based on what others think. I loved that Ms. Sure was willing to tackle a topic that isn’t addressed nearly as often as it should be. I though she did a wonderful job of capturing the emotional and psychological toll that this experience can have on an individual.
Really well done!

Thank You Ms. Sure!
Profile Image for Bobbi Wagner.
5,026 reviews65 followers
June 30, 2017
In the Pursuit of Charity: A New Adult College Romance by Alexandria Sure is a sports romance story. This story is about insecurity and accepting who you are. This story is full of emotions, you will laugh, cry and it may make you angry at times. This is my first story by this author and I loved it! I enjoyed her style of writing and her creative characters. She created a story that pulls you in from the first word and keeps you engaged until the end. She created characters that are true to life and have a way of popping right of the page. These characters will take you on a roller coaster ride of various emotions that you won't want to miss. You will fall in love with these characters. Find out what happens to these characters as they are faced with life struggles of insecurity and pure pressure.

Herbert Lincoln James (Linc) has ideas about his future that don't necessarily match his parents vision for him. They have had expectations from his birth that he would attend an ivy league college and go into politics. His ideas took him to the pool. He is the swim captain that was expected to win the big relay that would take them to state championship for the first time in years. He didn't do this either. He is expected to walk right by her but he didn't. What will happen when society expects one thing but he has his own ideas of what should be happen?

Linc can't decide what to do with his future. There are many expectations for him but that isn't what he seems to want. When he meets her, he knows that he just can't let her go. She is perfect to him. Will society dictate their relationship? Expectations can be a dangerous thing. He expected her to recognize him, fall for his charms and to just plain fall for him. She expected him to see through her, make a joke out of her, and expected him to be cruel. Will they let society dictate their expectations on them? Linc is such a strong character that he is just makes an awesome boyfriend material. He is kind, compassionate person who has no idea about his future but he knows that he wants her. She is also a strong character that has some insecurity problems but she does seem to grow throughout the story. They really are just great together but will expectations matter more then they expect? The secondary characters are just as great. You will love some and hate others. Some are a great support to the two characters more then others. Social expectation really makes a difference in some relationships but will it damage this one? Find out what happens with these two characters, will they let society dictate their relationship?

This is my first story by Alexandria Sure and I know it won't be the last. I can't wait for the second part of this story. Alexandria lives in Michigan with her supportive family and her two rescue pups. Her characters are developed at a local coffee shop where she loves to have her coffee. Her characters come alive in between her lattes. You will lose track of time with this story. I read it one sitting because I couldn't put it down. This is a fast paced story that will keep you turning page after page. It will leave you wanting more. You will never see this ending coming! I highly recommend this story as I know you will want to see what happens with these character as expectations will either hurt them or accept them.
September 11, 2018


Intrigued by the Blurb I choose to read an ARC of In the Pursuit of Charity by the new to me author Alexandria Sure. The book is a rather short one that I read in one session. Her writing style and character development is very different from what I usually read so it took me a little longer to get into the story and its characters. The plot flows at a slower but very steady pace which accentuates the characters very well I felt after I allowed myself to "get into" it.

And let me also inform you that either this is a series or the ending might not be what you expect. I at least was surprised by it so I am kind of expecting there to be at least a second book. This book is not a loud full-blown romance novel - it is quieter - the characters deal with a lot of stuff that the author took right out of the real life and that is also what it feels like when you follow the developing relations in the story.

But do not expect it to be predictable because of that - because it is not. This is a story about social standards and expectations and what happens when you either suddenly do not follow them anymore - or when you were never within them to begin with.

The story's I usually read are louder and faster so this is indeed an unusual one but that does not take away anything from the message of the book. I would like to hear what happens next to the characters - but I have to admit that I would not mind if the author would allow a little faster pace without losing sight of the characters needs.

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Profile Image for Derna.
591 reviews290 followers
July 5, 2017
*** I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review ***

4.5 Stars

I really enjoyed In the Pursuit of Charity by Alexandria Sure. It was sweet romance story that was a little different from your average New Adult story. Swim team captain Lincoln has fallen for Alexis. Alexis likes Linc but can't why he would be interested in her, someone who she is sure looks different from his usual type.

The storyline told from Linc point of view was thought-provoking for sure, and I think the author has done it well, she hasn't sugarcoated some of the hurtful and insensitive things that people say and think. I would love to have some of Alexis POV to know what she was thinking.

Alexis was lovely, and I completely understood and relate to how Alexis feels. I like Linc he seemed down-to-earth and nice all round guy. Linc liked Alexis, and he didn't care about what his friends felt or said. He fell for the girl with a laugh it was that simple. I adore the connection between Linc and Alexis.

I was shocked and a little cross with the way it ended as I was thinking how could the author end it like that. However, a quick look on Goodreads and I discovered the good news that this was the prequel and therefore Linc and Alexis story is not over. I can't wait to see what happens next for theses two.
Profile Image for Michelle Krystel .
2,051 reviews52 followers
August 26, 2017
Need more!

Arc provided by author for honest review. I was very skeptical to read this book. It just didn't sound like something I normally read or would enjoy. I am very happy to say I was dead wrong. I devoured this book. From the start to the finish! And now that I'm finished I want more and I need more. Ah sometimes hate cliffhangers lol.
Profile Image for Jenny.
1,110 reviews
July 16, 2018
This book drew me in from the beginning. This book is written well and is about a topic most people want to ignore. It’s a beautiful story and I’m so glad I took the time to read it. My emotions where all over the place. This book will stick with you after you finish reading.
*Magic Beyond The Covers Book Blog*
Profile Image for Maggie.
319 reviews10 followers
Read
November 22, 2025
ARC Review provided by (1)

*** ARC KINDLY provided by the AUTHOR in exchange for a HONEST REVIEW ***

In the Pursuit of Charity by Alexandria Sure is now LIVE!!


 
Buy Links:
| Amazon US | Amazon UK | Amazon CA |

Coming soon to Nook

 
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With this being a new authors book there were some confusion between inner dialogue and conversations. I wasn't a huge fan of the book being written in the third person but then had italic sentences in first person for Linc, it was confusing at times.


Okay now that I got the only bad part of the book out of the way let me rave about the rest. It was WONDERFUL to read about an athletic guy falling for a nonathletic girl. Linc was very much in shape hitting the pool everyday and going to Michigan State and on the swim team. By the way I LOVED that this book was based in Michigan as I am a Michigan girl... with that being said GO MAIZE and BLUE U of M! Anyways it was great to see him fall for a girl that was plus size. There were moments I was cringing for his mistakes or for the way he would describe things, but that's because he has never been with a girl like Alexis.


Alexis is shy and quiet. She is not able to do a lot of things because of her size and because of how people treat her or look at her. Lincs friends don't understand why he likes Alexis, let alone finds her attractive. Not only does Linc like the inner beauty but he is very attractive to the outer beauty as well which is like a fairy tale to Alexis.



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The story-line and characters were great and it was wonderful to see a kind hearted person not care about what his friends and family thinks all for the heart of the one and only girl he truly wants. Like I said before the writing is not the best which is understandable the first few books for any authors can be like that, it's a learning experience and that's why many authors go back and re-release books - NOT saying that is what needs to happen here, just stating that the book is great and should be read. It was a slow build read and an easy going relaxation feel to the book. It was refreshing to read about young love that is honest and true. Plus I enjoyed seeing Alexis break out of her shell finally.




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For a longer review at this book and others, please check out my blog at Trashy Biblo Blog
Profile Image for Debi.
1,135 reviews6 followers
July 2, 2017
In the Pursuit of Charity: A New Adult College Romance by Alexandria Sure

5 Stars

First off I want to say Bravo to this author..what a fantastic read! I don't even know where to begin with this review. I'll be honest I've read most of the reviews already posted and thought I knew which route to take with this but now I think I'm just going to write what comes to mind.

I normally don't like books that are only from the male character's POV, but in this case I'm thinking it was a brilliant move. I didn't need her POV, I already knew what hers was without reading it. I felt every word of this book deep in my heart, and I know that men and boys like Linc do exist, the problem is women and girls like Alexis exist as well, those girls that don't believe in compliments because society won't allow them to. Those girls that believe that anytime the opposite sex shows any interest it must be laced with an ulterior motive or a set up as a joke.

I applaud this author for tackling something that is way too common today and in such a beautifully brilliant way! I already want to go back to the beginning and reread it, again and again!

It left me needing, wanting, and craving so much more...I'm praying there is a sequel, and I pray it follows what my imagination has already worked up for these characters. This was my first book by this author and I already know it won't be my last. I absolutely LOVED this story, read it, you will not be sorry!!!
Profile Image for Robin Rankin.
1,213 reviews5 followers
July 9, 2017
In the Pursuit of Charity by Alexandria Sure was one of those books that left me wanting more of Linc and Alexis. There were several ways I could relate to Alexis and understood her thoughts, feelings and fears all too well. She wasn’t uncomfortable with who she was, but lacked self confidence in herself.

Linc is the popular jock who is confident and almost a little cocky. He gets set up on a blind date by one of his friends and is bored out of his mind, that is until he starts listening to the conversation going on at the table behind him. He hears her voice but has no idea who she is but there is something about her voice and laugh that just does something to him.

Alexis is almost a loner, she is at Michigan State to get an education so she can be successful. She has no boyfriends and very few friends. She spends her free time studying at the coffee shop and then Linc walks in and changes everything for her. He won’t take a hint and leave her alone no matter how much she asks and the lack of interest she shows.

I liked this book a lot and was very frustrated by what seems to be a cliffhanger. There better be a second book so I can find out what happens between this unlikely pair.
Profile Image for Ebony.
672 reviews24 followers
October 18, 2017
This was by far one of the best books that i have read this year!!! This is the first book that I have read by Alexandria Sure and will not be the last.

The one word that jumps out at me when thinking about this book is HONEST!!! The characters are relatable, loveable, and real. They are people that I can honestly see in the local coffee shop or anywhere else that I hang out in on a regular basis. I fell in love with both Linc & Alexis!! To me, they represent 2 sides of my self that I haven't seen in a long time. They made me smile and my heart break while they tried to navigate the rocky road of a new and unexpected relationship. I was rooting for them from the very beginning.

This book is so well written!!! I could have easily read this in 1 day, but took my time and got lost in the fictional world created by Alexandria Sure. I didn't want to leave!!! I plan on reading this book again and again. I have a new book boyfriend and his name is Linc!!! I am really hoping that Mrs. Sure will visit these characters again in a future book. I really want to know what comes next for them.

I HIGHLY recommend this book and hope that more people fall in love with!!! I can't wait to read more from this author!!!!
Profile Image for Carrie.
3,665 reviews36 followers
July 2, 2017
This might be considered spoilery, I'm not sure what the etiquette is here...



Ummm... I don't like cliffhangers! And I didn't know this was a prequel when I chose it! *sob*

However - it's a five star read for me. I know, crazy, right? But it's a FABULOUS story - the cadence of the writing style took me a little bit to get into, but the story pulled me right in. I felt connected to Linc right away, and loved the pacing of his getting to know Alexis. Even the missteps... But I want MORE NOW! *laugh* It was great being in his head & seeing things from his POV.

I'm looking forward to reading the rest of their story. : )
Profile Image for Roxs Reads.
826 reviews1 follower
July 6, 2019
I went into this book basically blind after meeting the author, Alexandria Sure, at a signing. It was a really great story that contained high doses of reality which I loved, and I don’t think I would have picked it up otherwise for no other reason than it’s not my typical genre. This was truly an emotional story which held me by the heartstrings hoping beyond hope that Linc and Alexis would find their way to each other. Now I’m hooked and have to read more about these characters, but the caveat is, I don’t know what to expect. The story is not over. The ending of In the Pursuit of Charity floored me and left me unsure about how I feel about anything except that I need more.

This story opened my eyes to the world around us that may not be as nice as I hope the majority of people are. Some of the events shocked me and made me sad that they were definitely someone’s reality. Knowing the author beforehand also made me relate the main female character directly to her, so I imagined every event as actually happening to her. Whether they did or not, I do not know, but that is how I related to this book and it made it more real and more emotional for me.

I struggled with the female character, Alexis, at times she seemed so strong and confident with herself, and other times she retreated into herself with self-doubt and questioning the motives of the male lead, Linc. I wanted her to be stronger and embrace a relationship, but I also understand why she was hesitant. I admired Linc for seeing past some of the physical characteristics of Alexis and focusing on the qualities that mattered most to him like personality and common interests. This was new territory for Linc, and it was a territory that no one in his life, except his very supportive sister, wanted him to explore. I admired his kindness and persistence, but I also questioned his choices in the end. Those choices didn‘t seem to fit with the way he had been throughout the book. Like I’ve already said, the ending floored me, and I did not expect it. Linc gave me the feeling he was falling for the girl and willing to move heaven and earth to be with Alexis and I guess I think there are other ways to love something and set it free to follow their dreams.

Third person books are not my favorite so that took a bit to get used to. I enjoyed that it was from the male’s perspective and the author provided lots of his inner thoughts to give us more insight into him, what he was thinking, and the many struggles he had on his hands that he was worried about.

In truth, I don’t think this is a book that everyone will enjoy, but what book is? It’s a different kind of romance with characters that aren’t exactly mainstream in books today. It’s a very slow burn where the characters are both wading through unknown waters trying their best to get to know each other and learn what life is like through the other’s eyes. Stumbling blocks and a multitude of opinions were stacked against the couple and the biggest obstacle may have been their own preconceived notions about themselves and what they expected for their own lives. Their journey together made for some great reading and a quick and surprising ending. I’m definitely intrigued enough to continue the journey with book 2, Credence Woods.
Profile Image for LaDonna.
509 reviews19 followers
June 29, 2017
3.5 Stars for In Pursuit of Charity

I received and ARC copy of this book for an honest review. This is basically a YA book, though set in college. It is stated to be the prequel, but I have no information on when the rest of the series will be released, and this ends on a cliffhanger. The captain of the swim team, Linc, whose POV the book is written in, falls for a girl no one in his social circle, including his mother, feel is good enough for him, based solely on the way she looks. She's a large girl, which seems to come up entirely too often, in my opinion.

Linc is in the end his senior year at Michigan State, and is reeling from the ending of his swimming career, and activity he has completely immersed himself in for years. His mom has lofty political aspirations for him, and arena he has never had any interest in. His best friend is pushing a really vapid cheerleader or something of the sort onto him. While on a blind date with her, he can't even remember her name - she is referred to by the name of the street she lives on throughout the book - he overhears a woman talking about the basketball game the night before, using some of the same words he describes the book. He becomes almost obsessed with her, getting to know her, pursuing her like he has never chased anyone else. She is definitely a challenge, but he is determined to make her fall for him. I will say that it is clear that he is not in any way put off by her size, but the behavior of his friends, and his mother, is despicable. As the book is entirely in Linc's POV, we don't truly get to know how Alexis is feeling about anything, and I think this may be why I really couldn't connect to her character.

Linc has more than his fair share of quirks - especially the thing with the serial numbers. I know he gives an explanation of sorts when Alexis asks him, but it didn't make a lot of sense to me. His mother....well,a whole book of disfunction could be written on her from the little glimpses we have got of her in this book. I assume some that were hinted at will be further explained in the "first book", but not knowing or getting the answers here I found rather confusing. Because of the ending, I am still not sure which aspects are truly important.

I think my favorite relationship is between the hero and his sister. I adored their phone banter and word of the day texts refreshing and sweet. My favorite character may well have been JoAnne, baristsa and overprotective friend of Alexis.

This is a clean read so suitable for most ages.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Britt Chaotic Creatives.
1,414 reviews94 followers
July 26, 2018
I very much had a love hate with this book. I mean that whole love/hate thing swung to the extreme on both sides. When I loved it I REALLY loved it, but I have to be honest and say as a plus size woman there were multiple times I actually yelled “SERIOUSLY?!” out loud while dramatically rolling my eyes. Let me break it down for anyone who’s not part of the big girl club, when I say plus sized I mean PLUS. I got a lot of booty, a lot of hips, and a lot of just everything. Idgaf about any judgement mostly because despite the way the world can be horrible, I haven’t had anyone try to attack me for being plus sized since middle school.
So for the author I’d like to say, I appreciate you taking the leap of a plus sized character but we fit on planes. We fit in booths. We can walk and keep up at events and socializing just fine even if we’re walking. It’s true, we can also walk. For miles. Shocking. I know. You’ve written a young woman who is plus sized as if she is debilitatingly morbidly obese. I have never walked through anywhere as a plus sized woman and been made fun of simply for being plus sized.
I mean, I’m sure d-bags have said stuff behind my back, but they’ve also said stuff about the skinny girl, and the short guy, and most likely their own mothers too. Do I believe people should take care of the bodies they’re given? Oh absolutely I do, but that gives no one the right to shame someone for how their bodies are built and even with the best of intentions that is exactly what you have done in this book by portraying your plus sized character this way.
Now that I’m off my love your body box, I can say I adored Linc. He seemed to be the only sane person in this book aside from Alexis. He was literally the ONLY one who treated her like a normal person and not like less than human,and that includes Alexis’ well intentioned friends. Well, let me rephrase that, he was perfect right up until he thought how he’d make her life better by getting her fit. *side eye* yeah, that was a thing. I just, I want to love this book, but I can’t. The way everyone in this book was aside from Linc and Alexis was just flat out toxic and self esteem ruining for anyone who is plus sized. I think the promise of great is there, but the execution left a lot to be desired. If the focus was taken more off of Alexis’ weight and put more on the actual romance this would have been incredibly sweet and a solid five stars for me.
Profile Image for Monica.
2,079 reviews
June 30, 2017
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.

Includes a CLIFFHANGER!!! I personally like to know ahead of time if there is one so I am not left upset at the end. Some of what I say in my review might be construed as a spoiler but I dont think so but just to put that warning out there so I dont upset anyone.

I really enjoyed the book. Its not very often we get to read books about plus-sized women. There is a vast difference between a romance novel that features a curvy or bbw and this book. You'll understand when you really get into this book. This book is written in Linc's POV. Personally, I would like to know both POV's but sometimes there is a reason. That being said we dont know Alexis' feelings or what she's thinking and its hard to gauge her.

Alexis truly is a bigger woman. Not exactly sure how big because she's not described really but its clear she's more than curvy. She wants to travel the world. Isnt looking for love or getting married or starting a family in the near future if ever. I could easily tell though as she spends her time with Linc she likes him really well although still wary. Wires get crossed and due to a communication glitch on Linc's part it goes to heck!

Linc really is a nice guy and he wasn't always. He's on the swim team and a pretty popular guy. He's got his own struggles and feels he let a lot of people down. He's procrastinating big time on what he plans to do after college. One thing he does know is he wants to know Alexis...date her and take it slow with her. Although he used to be THAT GUY he doesnt want to use her as a one off. It doesnt bother him she's not like his normal type she's very intriguing to him. Her size doesnt bother him. He's angry at people who make it an issue though and he doesnt always understand how she deals with it all.

This is an emotional book. Those of us women who have dealt with not being thin and struggle with our weight. We can relate on a personal level to Alexis. I REALLY wanted to know what she was thinking. Yes, I am on the POV thing again. :) I needed to know more about Alexis and wanted her character fleshed out a little more. Linc and Alexis dated and talked a some but they didnt work on their relationship, but perhaps that is because of her reluctance to show herself to Linc and open herself up to him fully. For once it was the guy that pursued the "relationship" part of it and he didnt want to push and scare her away. I look forward to the next book and a continuation hopefully to Linc and Alexis.
Profile Image for Kelly  - Kelly's Book Blog.
471 reviews22 followers
April 29, 2019
First, let me talk about how I found out about this book and the author. I met Alexandria Sure through my work. I found out that she is a Romance Author, and me being a Romance Book Blogger, it made sense to check out her work. Alexandria sent me a copy of her book and I am SO glad that I had the chance to meet her and read this book! What’s so cool about this book is that it’s set near my hometown and takes place at the college I went to – Michigan State University. On top of a cool setting, Alexandria creates REALISTIC, everyday characters that are relatable. YES!

Charity is a beautiful, full-bodied woman, not your typical skinny supermodel book love interest. She is just like any other young woman going to college. She is figuring out what she wants in life and dealing with the body shaming and tough situations big girls experience. She is strong, determined and a bit feisty which makes the interactions with the sexy swim captain, Linc, so fun! Linc is a sweet, sexy and down to earth guy. He is the swim captain of the college team. He too is determined, strong and very disciplined. He is regimented with his swim career and has had a fairly “blessed” life. Having a scholarship, being good looking and popular makes his life a breeze. When he meets Charity for the first time, he is instantly attracted to her. Being the guy who can have any girl that he wants – and believe me, girls are throwing themselves at him – he realizes he wants Charity but he must first breakdown her walls. This is not going to be easy but love is worth it!

Yes. Yes. Yes. Hello realistic love story! There isn’t insta-love. The characters have to work to build a relationship and Charity doesn’t just give in to Linc. Linc has to PURSUE her. This is one of the main reasons why I really enjoyed this book.

One thing… I wished there was more! I wanted more of Charity’s perspective. I wanted to be inside her mind to better understand what she was feeling and why. I wanted to understand how the walls she built around herself got there. I wanted to feel more for her. She intrigued me from the very beginning! Good news….there is another book after this one. I am so thankful because the cliffhanger at the end of this book left me twitching and wanting more.

Kellybookblog.com
Profile Image for Laura Furuta.
2,047 reviews28 followers
June 30, 2017
In the Pursuit of Charity: A New Adult College Romance
By: Alexandria Sure
5 out of 5 stars

The story In the Pursuit of Charity: A New Adult College Romance by Alexandria Sure is a new adult/sports romance book. This is a beautiful story about life and how sometimes what people expect of someone is the furthest thing from their minds. Herbert Lincoln James or Linc to his friends and family know all about expectations. His parents remind him of theirs all the time and his friends seem to expect that he will act just like them. Then one day he finds himself drawn to a young woman. He has a different feeling towards her than those he has gone after before and is determined to pursue her. This road is not easy. Will Linc be able to make this young woman see that he really does want to spend time with her?

The young woman that Linc is drawn to knows how the world sees her. By the comments that are made about her and their actions she knows how they feel. When she meets Linc she is very confused. She believes that he is setting her up as a joke or at least just trying to make fun of her. I felt for this young woman as some in society are not understanding and can be downright cruel towards others they believe are different. I understood this woman being hesitant and questioning Linc’s motives, it is more of a survival instinct for her. As she begins to talk to Linc she finds a person that seems to really be interested in her. Will this young woman find a friend or even more in Linc?

This story really had my emotions going up and down. It had me frustrated at some of the characters for being what I call “shallow” and angry at situations that happen because of the actions of others. I was also amazed at the time and compassion that Linc shows for this young woman. What is in the cards for these two? How will their story end? This is the first book I have read by this author and my hats off to her in writing a story that I believe everyone should read. It had me thinking about it long after I had finished. Come read the story of Linc and the personal journey he takes.
Profile Image for Kaitlynn Taylor.
781 reviews6 followers
July 2, 2017
In the Pursuit of Charity- Alexandria Sure

4 Stars Review

In the Pursuit of Charity by Alexandria Sure is a refreshing change; it’s a romance story where the athlete doesn’t date a Barbie. It’s a very well written story that completely captivated me from the start, it’s definitely original. Alexis possessed strength that people dream of and I found her to be incredibly inspirational. This was definitely an eye-opening story for me.

Linc James is a student at Michigan State who has a life changing decision a head of him, his career. Linc decides to stay back on campus while his friends go on one last vacation, which turns out to be a great decision after all. After seeing Alexis in the coffee shop he goes to introduce himself but she’s not falling for his usual charm, in fact she basically dismisses him. He tries very hard to get to know her; she is nothing like he’s used too. She doesn’t know who he is, doesn’t fall for his charm or look anything like the women he’s normally with. He’s very intrigued by her and he becomes incredibly persistent in pursuing her. Finally she gives in and agrees to hangout with him. She’s very guarded and weary of his intentions towards her, making him work much harder then he usually has too. They get to spend their spring break getting to know one another without the harsh whispers of everyone around, but soon reality comes crashing in changing everything. Will they be able to look past their differences in order to pursue a relationship or will their differences be too much to bear?

Alexandria did a fantastic job with this book. I have never read one quite like it. I liked that for once the relationship wasn’t based on appearances but actually on whom they are as a person. And I’m glad that someone like Linc picked up on that. I did find that some things weren’t really explained thoroughly but it didn’t take away from the story. I am seriously hoping that there will be a book two following Linc and Alexis as their story didn’t really feel resolved, I look forward to reading more of Alexandria Sure’s work in the future!
Profile Image for Nick .
154 reviews5 followers
June 30, 2017
In The Pursuit of Charity
By: Alexandria Sure
4 out of 5 stars

In The Pursuit of Charity is a beautiful, refreshing and different romance story that we all can relate to. In a world obsessed with perfection. Ms Sure writes on a insecurity that most woman deal with weight. In The Pursuit of Charity is the first book that I have read from this author. Alexandria Sure writing style is superb, warm and engaging.
Linc every ones golden boy. Captain of the collage swim team. Linc is popular and has a group of friends. His mother has his life all planned out for him. Linc has his own plans for the path his life will be. Alexis is part of the plan that Linc has for his life. He can't stop thinking about her and is surprise that she is not returning the attention. Linc hears her voice before he sees Alexis causing an instant draw for him.
Alexis loves to spend her time at the coffee shop reading. She is used to being made fun of due to her weight. So when Linc mister popular and captain of the swim team shows her attention Alexis is guarded. She has placed walls all around her heart to guard from being hurt. Alexis does not think Linc attention is sincere.
Will Alexis give Linc a chance? Will Linc allow what his mother and friends think influence his pursuit of Alexis. In The Pursuit Of Charity is a wonderful and eye opening read that opens us up to living your life and not living for people. Ms Sure has introduced us to Linc and Alexis in this prequel book. We will find out more about their story in the coming book. I enjoyed the friendship that developed between the two of them. The work Linc put into Alexis making her comfortable and touching the wall that enclosed her heart. I recommend this book to all! It's a great and heartfelt read that draws and hold you through out the book and looking forward for more. Charity is love and it's wonderful to see Linc pursue It. Add this book to your reading list and you won't be disappointed.
Profile Image for Kristan Anderson.
326 reviews
July 5, 2017
In the Pursuit of Charity by Alexandria Sure is a cute college romance story. Told entirely from Linc's perspective, we accompany him on his journey to get a girl to like him. Something that has never been this difficult for him before.

Herbert Lincoln "Linc" James has been a swimmer since he was two years old. He's loved everything about the water. But a little over a week ago his career ended after a disqualification from the team relay race. His popularity from being a good swimmer kept people from making fun of that awful name. That and the fact that he looked pretty darn amazing thanks to his rock hard body. Like most jocks, his friends were pretty much jerks. And truthfully his family is no better, but always being in the spotlight causes there to be social standards and some people simply don't fit in.

Alexis definitely does not fit into his social circle being a plus sized girl who knows a good deal about basketball. But Linc doesn't care. What he does know is that he loves her laugh and wants to do anything he can to hear that sweet noise. Though we don't find out too much about her because she is very closed off from Linc. Which is understandable because why would a hot jock be interested in her.

Seeing her slowly open up to the fact that he does like her for who she is is very sweet. I like how true to life Alexandria made the characters feel. In the fact that Alexis' insecurities and how people treated her are exactly how you hear and see him. While unfortunately, Linc tries his best to show her that he truly likes her. But does he try hard enough? Will he lose her completely?

The story ends with a cliffhanger and I will say I was a little peeved at that since I wasn't prepared for it. Nothing wrong with how it ended but I tried for several seconds to make more pages appear. I'll be interested to see how the story continues. Maybe we will get Alexis' point of view and get to see how she feels about Linc and the situations unfolding.
Profile Image for Angelina Frazzini.
561 reviews7 followers
July 13, 2017
In the Pursuit of Charity by Alexandria Sure is a new adult college romance that tells the story of Lincoln James (also known as Linc) and Alexis Hewson. This is the first book I've read by this author and I wasn't disappointed. As soon as I started reading it, I was sucked in and finished it in almost one sitting.

Linc James has spent practically his entire life in the pool. Even though it definitely wasn't the path his mother wanted him to take, swimming is what he knows. He's also never done the relationship thing. With his status, came certain things. His pick of girls was one of them. Now, he finds himself trying to navigate through his new reality. Swimming is over for Linc as a college senior. In his haze of trying to decide his future, he sees Alexis. She's not his normal type and he doesn't usually take girls on dates but one look at her and he knows he needs to meet her.

Alexis Hewson knows what people think of her. She is not super skinny like most of the girls Linc has been seen with so, she's sure his attention should be focused somewhere else. That’s confirmed when she over hears hurtful comments from Linc’s friends. She doesn't want to give Linc the time of day but he wears her down. Everything is going smoothly. They've been on dates and hung out at school and Linc couldn't be more happy with how things are going. However, he wants his friends to meet and get to know Alexis and convinces her that it's a good idea. After an unfortunate turn of events, Linc stands by as he watches Alexis leave from the train station wondering if he's meant to be with her at all.

I really enjoyed this book however, a lot of the time Linc made me so mad. All he had to do was stand up for what he wanted and believed in and his problems wouldn’t be so bad. I would absolutely recommend this book!
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