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Hand Me Down
Life has always been pretty easy on me. I wake up every morning, drink too much coffee, log in a few hours of work, relax and then start the process all over again the next day.
Like I said, easy.
Of course, like everyone, life has been known to throw me the occasional curve ball - just a little something to remind me not to get too comfortable. Because once you get to that point, where things have fallen into a routine of complacency, that Son of a Bitch called life comes back with a vengeance; ready to send his size 13 up your ass.
That’s exactly what happened to me the day that Alex Paige came back into my life.
He was different than the last time I saw him. Maybe he’d lost some weight or gotten taller– I wasn’t sure. All I knew was that something fundamental had shifted in Alex during the six months that he’d been away and I felt the compulsive need to find out what it was.
Unfortunately, that task was far more unattainable than it seemed.
Why, you ask? The answer is simple.
Alex just got a divorce.
From my sister.
Like I said, easy.
Of course, like everyone, life has been known to throw me the occasional curve ball - just a little something to remind me not to get too comfortable. Because once you get to that point, where things have fallen into a routine of complacency, that Son of a Bitch called life comes back with a vengeance; ready to send his size 13 up your ass.
That’s exactly what happened to me the day that Alex Paige came back into my life.
He was different than the last time I saw him. Maybe he’d lost some weight or gotten taller– I wasn’t sure. All I knew was that something fundamental had shifted in Alex during the six months that he’d been away and I felt the compulsive need to find out what it was.
Unfortunately, that task was far more unattainable than it seemed.
Why, you ask? The answer is simple.
Alex just got a divorce.
From my sister.
- GenresRomance
232 pages, Paperback
Published May 21, 2016
3 people are currently reading
412 people want to read
About the author
Christen Gillan
1 book14 followersChristen Gillan hails from a small town in the Appalachian region of Kentucky. Typically, she can be found with her nose tucked into a book or hunched over a pad of paper, undoubtedly jotting down another inappropriate idea persuading her to bring it to life.
In the off chance that she is not doing either of those things then she is definitely planted in front of a TV, obsessing over a sporting event - most likely college basketball. Other than her penchant for literature and sports, Christen is an avid music lover which is often depicted in her writing.
Hand Me Down is her debut novel.
For more rants and insights, follow Christen on Twitter:@ChristenGillan
In the off chance that she is not doing either of those things then she is definitely planted in front of a TV, obsessing over a sporting event - most likely college basketball. Other than her penchant for literature and sports, Christen is an avid music lover which is often depicted in her writing.
Hand Me Down is her debut novel.
For more rants and insights, follow Christen on Twitter:@ChristenGillan
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
May 17, 2016
3.5 Stars. Alex divorced Kate's sister after she got pregnant by another man. He seems to have gotten a little lost when everything he knew was suddenly gone and went off on his own to sulk. Kate's sister sends her in a mission to get her ex to pay for some repairs and in the process, Kate reconnects with him. The story follows the transition from two people who barely talked at family dinners to friends and finally more. They bond over video games (LOVE me some gamer chicks) and scavenger hunts, dogs, long talks, and texts. As apprehensive as I am about hero's that have been with a sibling, I actually felt kind of bad for Alex. Kate's sister was a selfish nightmare. I was a little disappointed at the scope of the reaction Alex had their first time, though I understand that other factors contributed. I enjoyed seeing Alex show his emotions. I think that it cheats a story when a hero can't show that aspect of human nature.
As far as the writing goes, a few parts felt rushed and I think given a little more page space, the characters could have been fleshed out a little better but I found that the building moments between the heroes was done well. This is a simmer type of romance but the anticipation is sexy. I would liked to see their new romance grow and maybe an epilogue into their future. All in all, a good read :)
Review copy received in exchange for an honest review.
As far as the writing goes, a few parts felt rushed and I think given a little more page space, the characters could have been fleshed out a little better but I found that the building moments between the heroes was done well. This is a simmer type of romance but the anticipation is sexy. I would liked to see their new romance grow and maybe an epilogue into their future. All in all, a good read :)
Review copy received in exchange for an honest review.
June 6, 2016
Sometimes hand-me-downs are just plain hateful and sometimes you find you just may fall in love with them.
Kate was only the messenger, but the cool stare and attitude she got from Alex Paige really wasn’t to be unexpected, after all, SHE hadn’t divorced him after getting pregnant with another man’s child that was her selfish, self-centered sister. But an errand done in protest became the unlikely beginning of a very unlikely friendship that could spell trouble for Kate’s heart.
Her sister took everything from Alex, so why should he give her the time of day? Because Kate is the polar opposite of her sister, the black sheep of the family, a free spirit hiding inside a recluse’s body, and someone has found the key to free her, or is she finding a new world that brings relaxed conversation, a little adventure and a lot of secrets to keep from her family, especially the drama queen whose hormones are even more out of whack than usual.
Hang on for a refreshing girl re-meets boy tale that is sure to bring smiles, and few good laughs as we enter the oh-so-earthy mind of Kate in Christen Gillan’s Hand Me Down. Where else could we find a reclusive gamer and a man she barely talked to when he was her brother-in-law find a common ground of friendship? It’s the simple things that make Kate realize how much she has missed as life passed her by in her little cocoon.
I could have gone on reading for hours, I was so entertained! I laughed, I felt terrible about events, I wanted to cringe and always I wanted a magical happy ending for these two, in spite of outside pressures, you know, like the parents and pregnant sister. What Christen Gillan gave me was a light read that went by quickly and left me feeling good! Sure, maybe I wanted a few things fleshed out just a tad, but, it was mostly just gossipy stuff! You want a heroine to adore? Meet Kate. Need a cool pooch who raises a little Cain? Meet Bowie! A fun read where the romance simmers on low and the heroine learns to take life as it comes and go with it! One more hidden gem for the pile!
I received this copy from Christen Gillan in exchange for my honest review.
Publisher: Christen Gillan (May 12, 2016)
Publication Date: May 12, 2016
ISBN-13: 9781533245236
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Print Length: 234 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
For Reviews & More: http://tometender.blogspot.com
Kate was only the messenger, but the cool stare and attitude she got from Alex Paige really wasn’t to be unexpected, after all, SHE hadn’t divorced him after getting pregnant with another man’s child that was her selfish, self-centered sister. But an errand done in protest became the unlikely beginning of a very unlikely friendship that could spell trouble for Kate’s heart.
Her sister took everything from Alex, so why should he give her the time of day? Because Kate is the polar opposite of her sister, the black sheep of the family, a free spirit hiding inside a recluse’s body, and someone has found the key to free her, or is she finding a new world that brings relaxed conversation, a little adventure and a lot of secrets to keep from her family, especially the drama queen whose hormones are even more out of whack than usual.
Hang on for a refreshing girl re-meets boy tale that is sure to bring smiles, and few good laughs as we enter the oh-so-earthy mind of Kate in Christen Gillan’s Hand Me Down. Where else could we find a reclusive gamer and a man she barely talked to when he was her brother-in-law find a common ground of friendship? It’s the simple things that make Kate realize how much she has missed as life passed her by in her little cocoon.
I could have gone on reading for hours, I was so entertained! I laughed, I felt terrible about events, I wanted to cringe and always I wanted a magical happy ending for these two, in spite of outside pressures, you know, like the parents and pregnant sister. What Christen Gillan gave me was a light read that went by quickly and left me feeling good! Sure, maybe I wanted a few things fleshed out just a tad, but, it was mostly just gossipy stuff! You want a heroine to adore? Meet Kate. Need a cool pooch who raises a little Cain? Meet Bowie! A fun read where the romance simmers on low and the heroine learns to take life as it comes and go with it! One more hidden gem for the pile!
I received this copy from Christen Gillan in exchange for my honest review.
Publisher: Christen Gillan (May 12, 2016)
Publication Date: May 12, 2016
ISBN-13: 9781533245236
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Print Length: 234 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
For Reviews & More: http://tometender.blogspot.com
June 22, 2016
Loved it...this story was very enjoyable and pleasant to read with also a slightly different theme, plot. Our heroine Kate is the baby of the family after her sister's divorce she gets close with he her ex-brother in law but the thing is that it was so beautifully written and doesn't make you feel strange with the whole situation when you read it you will understand what i'm saying.
Their relationship and therefore their attraction to each other grew up steadily and it was unexpected for both of them, Alex obviously after what his wife had done had trust issues which was very understandable but when he got close with Kate he saw a completely different personality (yeah she is young and loves what she is doing) this whole innocence draw him to her and as for Kate...she also didn't understand when she started developing feelings for him.
You certainly will read a plot that you don't expect to, i didn't realized when this book finished and i surely wanted to read more about Kate and Alex, their story was a pure addiction for me and i think i had very little taste from it. I also have to mention that i disliked her sister, she was a very selfish and manipulative character. Furthermore the plot is developing with a fast pace and i'm pretty sure that you won't get bored and you will fall in love with both characters as much as i did.
June 28, 2016
4.5 stars
This book was fantastic. I cannot believe this is her debut novel. I really, really enjoyed it. The plot was imaginative and the characters in it were so well-developed. It immediately had me in Kate's shoes and feeling all of her emotions and helplessness at times. Kate was a great, unique character that was so relatable and likeable because she was a balance of strength and openness.
Kate finds herself in an odd situation wondering what the right thing to do is and if she should go with her heart or her head, regardless of the consequences. The dynamics of her family and her sister was something most can relate to full of love, guilt,and drama that just added to the story and didn't distract the reader from the main tale of Kate and her ex-brother-in-law.
I am looking forward to reading more from Christen. I loved the characters in this book so much that I would love to see more of Kate and Alex and even some sister Jenny drama.
This book was fantastic. I cannot believe this is her debut novel. I really, really enjoyed it. The plot was imaginative and the characters in it were so well-developed. It immediately had me in Kate's shoes and feeling all of her emotions and helplessness at times. Kate was a great, unique character that was so relatable and likeable because she was a balance of strength and openness.
Kate finds herself in an odd situation wondering what the right thing to do is and if she should go with her heart or her head, regardless of the consequences. The dynamics of her family and her sister was something most can relate to full of love, guilt,and drama that just added to the story and didn't distract the reader from the main tale of Kate and her ex-brother-in-law.
I am looking forward to reading more from Christen. I loved the characters in this book so much that I would love to see more of Kate and Alex and even some sister Jenny drama.
June 13, 2016
How in the world is this book Christen Gillan’s first? Hand Me Down is one of those books that I absorbed with my mind, body and soul. Gillan wove a fantastic tale of forbidden love that demands your attention until the very end.
Hand Me Down is the story of a self professed gamer nerd and loner, Kate and her forbidden attraction to her off limits recently divorced ex brother in law, Alex. Now, immediately you think this is such a taboo relationship because how could a sister do that to another sister, but please hang on with Gillan as she tells you the story of how two lonely lost people in the world found each other even after knowing each other for years. She takes you on a journey of emotion, wrapping your heart up in their deep rooted struggle to maintain that friendly relationship and not tiptoe that dangerous boundary of real love.
It’s not often that I find an author who just hits every pinpoint on my angsty romance read scale. Gillan’s Hand Me Down most definitely hit each mark. It was a slow burn of angst, temptation and love at it’s very finest. I am so happy I found this new author to support, fall in love with her stories and make sure everyone knows about her writing. As with all authors, I can only assume Gillan’s talents will continue to grow with each novel she writes and I, for one, can’t wait to read her next book. Look out world cause Gillan’s got something to say.
Hand Me Down is the story of a self professed gamer nerd and loner, Kate and her forbidden attraction to her off limits recently divorced ex brother in law, Alex. Now, immediately you think this is such a taboo relationship because how could a sister do that to another sister, but please hang on with Gillan as she tells you the story of how two lonely lost people in the world found each other even after knowing each other for years. She takes you on a journey of emotion, wrapping your heart up in their deep rooted struggle to maintain that friendly relationship and not tiptoe that dangerous boundary of real love.
It’s not often that I find an author who just hits every pinpoint on my angsty romance read scale. Gillan’s Hand Me Down most definitely hit each mark. It was a slow burn of angst, temptation and love at it’s very finest. I am so happy I found this new author to support, fall in love with her stories and make sure everyone knows about her writing. As with all authors, I can only assume Gillan’s talents will continue to grow with each novel she writes and I, for one, can’t wait to read her next book. Look out world cause Gillan’s got something to say.
March 22, 2017
4.5 "I Need More" Stars
I found this book on Twitter, somehow. I think the author had tagged New Adult or something, and wah-la, this gem popped up. Now, to be honest, I probably would have ignored it upon first glance because I typically shy away from self-published, indie books (I'm a book snob, I know) but it's the truth. Nevertheless, I fell into the spiral of checking it out and discovered that it was Free on Kindle Unlimited (which I can't seem to cancel my subscription too, damn it) and gave it a try.
I'm glad that I did.
I'm a little shocked that I liked the book as much as I did. I guess when you don't have high expectations for something it's kind of hard to be disappointed.
And this book did NOT disappoint.
I loved Alex and Kate - and their whole opposites attract dynamic. I loved Bowie! (Awesome name, by the way). I loved the supporting characters, however little we did see of them, especially Sirah. That girl didn't take any shit.
Like I said, it was good and I was surprised.
I just needed a little bit more. Just a little.
And who know, maybe I will get a little bit more. Here's to hoping for a spin-off with Sirah, or Pegasus (which would just be awesome!).
I'll keep my fingers crossed.
I found this book on Twitter, somehow. I think the author had tagged New Adult or something, and wah-la, this gem popped up. Now, to be honest, I probably would have ignored it upon first glance because I typically shy away from self-published, indie books (I'm a book snob, I know) but it's the truth. Nevertheless, I fell into the spiral of checking it out and discovered that it was Free on Kindle Unlimited (which I can't seem to cancel my subscription too, damn it) and gave it a try.
I'm glad that I did.
I'm a little shocked that I liked the book as much as I did. I guess when you don't have high expectations for something it's kind of hard to be disappointed.
And this book did NOT disappoint.
I loved Alex and Kate - and their whole opposites attract dynamic. I loved Bowie! (Awesome name, by the way). I loved the supporting characters, however little we did see of them, especially Sirah. That girl didn't take any shit.
Like I said, it was good and I was surprised.
I just needed a little bit more. Just a little.
And who know, maybe I will get a little bit more. Here's to hoping for a spin-off with Sirah, or Pegasus (which would just be awesome!).
I'll keep my fingers crossed.
May 23, 2016
Kate is a self proclaimed hermit, she works from home, her social activities involve war games with other on-line gamers, her best friend is connected mostly by phone calls and text messages and Sundays she has dinner with the family. Kate's world is pretty comfy except her self centered sister always manages to rock the boat.
Kate's sister Jenny is divorced and pregnant...and the baby daddy is not her ex's. Not being able to live the life she had become accustomed to, Jenny manipulates Kate into seeking some financial support from her ex, Alex. This is where the roller coaster ride begins.
Alex and Kate develop an unlikely friendship, which totally upturns Kate's life. Everything that happens over a short period of time awakens Kate to all that she has avoided and denied herself. Can Kate take a slice of heaven just for her? Will her friendship with Alex ever be anything else? Can it be anything else.
A ballsy independent young woman finally on her road the self discovery.
I hope this isn't the last we hear from these characters, I have a feeling they have a whole lot more to tell of their story!
Kate's sister Jenny is divorced and pregnant...and the baby daddy is not her ex's. Not being able to live the life she had become accustomed to, Jenny manipulates Kate into seeking some financial support from her ex, Alex. This is where the roller coaster ride begins.
Alex and Kate develop an unlikely friendship, which totally upturns Kate's life. Everything that happens over a short period of time awakens Kate to all that she has avoided and denied herself. Can Kate take a slice of heaven just for her? Will her friendship with Alex ever be anything else? Can it be anything else.
A ballsy independent young woman finally on her road the self discovery.
I hope this isn't the last we hear from these characters, I have a feeling they have a whole lot more to tell of their story!
May 19, 2016
Hand Me Down is the first book by Christen Gillan that I have ever read. I was shocked that there are no reviews because this book is so well written is deserves to have an army of reviews. Such an original novel with so much charm.
Kate is such a strong lead female with her teal hair and gamer personality. Honestly, I wasn’t a big fan of hers in the beginning but she grew on me and my heart broke when she was faced with difficult times. Alex Paige is swoon worthy and their sex scenes are hella hot!
Gillan mentions diabetes throughout the story and I found it very refreshing to have a lead that is not perfect as most of ours aren’t.
I can’t wait to see what else she gives us in the future. I am forever a fan!
Kate is such a strong lead female with her teal hair and gamer personality. Honestly, I wasn’t a big fan of hers in the beginning but she grew on me and my heart broke when she was faced with difficult times. Alex Paige is swoon worthy and their sex scenes are hella hot!
Gillan mentions diabetes throughout the story and I found it very refreshing to have a lead that is not perfect as most of ours aren’t.
I can’t wait to see what else she gives us in the future. I am forever a fan!
September 7, 2016
I loved this book very much! I wished it was longer so that I could spend more time with Alex and Kate! It was provoking, emotional read and I really loved the plot! I could connect with the characters and was cheering for the since the start!! Amazing book and highly recommend!
May 23, 2016
Quick read; cute story too!
November 4, 2016
I can't belive this is a debu!
With a perfection this story is delivered to a reader. It's flawless and perfect!
With a perfection this story is delivered to a reader. It's flawless and perfect!
June 13, 2016
Today I had the pleasure of reading Christen Gillan’s debut novel, Hand Me Down. This is most definitely a unique romance, in that it tells the story of Kate and her ex brother-in-law, Alex. Kate is a gamer geek, loner, and has the mouth of a sailor. Alex has been busy rebuilding his life since his wife Jenny (Kate’s sister), cheated on him and became pregnant by her secret lover. Kate has not had contact with Alex since his divorce from Jenny, but when Jenny’s home needs repairs, she talks Kate into paying Alex a visit to ask him to pay for it. As awkward as that first meeting is, thus begins an interesting friendship.
Kate is an unusual and quirky character. She likes to play X-Box Live and scream and cuss over the headset with other gamers, her best friend is a lesbian that lives with another woman, and Kate is still a virgin at 23 years old. Kate is definitely not a girly girl, frequently choosing gaming t-shirts and sweats as her attire. Having developed Type 1 Diabetes as a child, she used to struggle with being chubby, but has lost weight and has grown greater confidence about her body image. Kate’s sister Jenny, is just an awful person. She cheated on her ex-husband (Alex) with her yoga instructor, tried to pretend the baby was her husband’s, but ended up divorced after he insisted on a DNA test, proving that it was the Yoga Instructor’s baby. Jenny is basically a brat and throws temper-tantrums, making the reader delighted that Alex is away from her. Alex is a big, strong, rugged Architect. Gillan’s descriptions of Alex make him sound absolutely dreamy, he’s kind, gentle, intelligent, and sexy. Plus, he has a cool dog named Bowie, which always scores points with me:) As Kate and Alex reconnect, Kate is torn between what she thinks she is beginning to feel, and what her family would think if she were to be with Alex.
Hand Me Down is definitely an interesting romance because it’s not a story line you read everyday. Alex has always been a good guy and was not the reason his marriage to Kate’s sister ended. He was not the wrong-doer, but what are the boundaries and limits when it comes to your sister’s ex-husband? This story brings up various moral questions about what’s acceptable or appropriate, but in the end it comes down to love and following your heart. Although I felt Alex’s character could have been more developed, I loved Gillan’s writing style. While reading this novel you can feel the emotions that the characters are experiencing, especially the chemistry between Kate and Alex, as well as, the awkward tension. I feel that Hand Me Down is a great debut novel and can’t wait to read more from this new author!
Want to learn more about Christen Gillan and see something really cool and different? Visit her website at: http://christengillan.blogspot.com/
*Christen’s website has a playlist of songs either mentioned in the novel or that served as inspiration, which is an awesome idea!
**I received a copy of this novel from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Kate is an unusual and quirky character. She likes to play X-Box Live and scream and cuss over the headset with other gamers, her best friend is a lesbian that lives with another woman, and Kate is still a virgin at 23 years old. Kate is definitely not a girly girl, frequently choosing gaming t-shirts and sweats as her attire. Having developed Type 1 Diabetes as a child, she used to struggle with being chubby, but has lost weight and has grown greater confidence about her body image. Kate’s sister Jenny, is just an awful person. She cheated on her ex-husband (Alex) with her yoga instructor, tried to pretend the baby was her husband’s, but ended up divorced after he insisted on a DNA test, proving that it was the Yoga Instructor’s baby. Jenny is basically a brat and throws temper-tantrums, making the reader delighted that Alex is away from her. Alex is a big, strong, rugged Architect. Gillan’s descriptions of Alex make him sound absolutely dreamy, he’s kind, gentle, intelligent, and sexy. Plus, he has a cool dog named Bowie, which always scores points with me:) As Kate and Alex reconnect, Kate is torn between what she thinks she is beginning to feel, and what her family would think if she were to be with Alex.
Hand Me Down is definitely an interesting romance because it’s not a story line you read everyday. Alex has always been a good guy and was not the reason his marriage to Kate’s sister ended. He was not the wrong-doer, but what are the boundaries and limits when it comes to your sister’s ex-husband? This story brings up various moral questions about what’s acceptable or appropriate, but in the end it comes down to love and following your heart. Although I felt Alex’s character could have been more developed, I loved Gillan’s writing style. While reading this novel you can feel the emotions that the characters are experiencing, especially the chemistry between Kate and Alex, as well as, the awkward tension. I feel that Hand Me Down is a great debut novel and can’t wait to read more from this new author!
Want to learn more about Christen Gillan and see something really cool and different? Visit her website at: http://christengillan.blogspot.com/
*Christen’s website has a playlist of songs either mentioned in the novel or that served as inspiration, which is an awesome idea!
**I received a copy of this novel from the author in exchange for an honest review.
August 15, 2016
***ARC PROVIDED BY AUTHOR FOR AN HONEST REVIEW***
Christen Gillan’s novel ‘Hand me Down’ was a great book to read and relax with on a lazy Sunday afternoon and that is exactly how I read it. This is a 5 star read and unbelievably it is the debut novel from this author.
I was captivated by Kate and somewhat related to the social awkwardness and need to appease her sister just to make life easier. Kate works from home on computer and also loves gaming online meaning that she doesn't go out often, preferring to keep her own company. Forced to accommodate her sister Jenny when she needs to use Kate’s kitchen and then when Jenny manipulates her into going to see Jenny’s ex husband on her behalf to ask for him to get the pipes fixed in Jenny’s house Kate realises just how low her sister will stoop.
The encounter with Alex, Jenny’s ex goes pretty much to how Kate expected so she is surprised to find out he helped Jenny. Feeling that she needs to help Alex and give him a few choice words about Jenny she sets off to do just that not knowing that it would spark to life a new friendship and very confusingly the feeling of wanting more. She is quite conflicted by her growing feelings and really doesn't know what to do about them.
Kate is a sweet 23year old who tries her best not to set her sister off as she worries the effect it would have on her parents. Her sister Jenny is however spoilt and self indulged and has little regard for anyone else making it much easier as a reader to accept what is happing between Kate and her sister’s ex.
The writing was impeccable and you would never know that this was a debut novel. The characters are interesting and likeable making the read flow that much better. This is a quick enjoyable read that I would happily recommend. I will be keeping an eye out for any future work by Christen Gillan and am quite excited about what se might bring us next.
Reviewed by Louise G
Christen Gillan’s novel ‘Hand me Down’ was a great book to read and relax with on a lazy Sunday afternoon and that is exactly how I read it. This is a 5 star read and unbelievably it is the debut novel from this author.
I was captivated by Kate and somewhat related to the social awkwardness and need to appease her sister just to make life easier. Kate works from home on computer and also loves gaming online meaning that she doesn't go out often, preferring to keep her own company. Forced to accommodate her sister Jenny when she needs to use Kate’s kitchen and then when Jenny manipulates her into going to see Jenny’s ex husband on her behalf to ask for him to get the pipes fixed in Jenny’s house Kate realises just how low her sister will stoop.
The encounter with Alex, Jenny’s ex goes pretty much to how Kate expected so she is surprised to find out he helped Jenny. Feeling that she needs to help Alex and give him a few choice words about Jenny she sets off to do just that not knowing that it would spark to life a new friendship and very confusingly the feeling of wanting more. She is quite conflicted by her growing feelings and really doesn't know what to do about them.
Kate is a sweet 23year old who tries her best not to set her sister off as she worries the effect it would have on her parents. Her sister Jenny is however spoilt and self indulged and has little regard for anyone else making it much easier as a reader to accept what is happing between Kate and her sister’s ex.
The writing was impeccable and you would never know that this was a debut novel. The characters are interesting and likeable making the read flow that much better. This is a quick enjoyable read that I would happily recommend. I will be keeping an eye out for any future work by Christen Gillan and am quite excited about what se might bring us next.
Reviewed by Louise G
July 8, 2016
Kate Patterson doesn't need anybody, or anything in this life other than her Xbox, her family, and her best friend Sirah. When her sister Jenny shows up at her house over broken pipes in her kitchen, Kate has no idea what she's getting herself into. Recently divorced, and recently knocked up by her yoga instructor, Jenny Patterson is known for manipulating people, and getting them to do her biding. When she begs Kate to show up at her ex-husbands house asking for the pipes to be fixed, Kate takes matters into her own hands, lets all sorts of pent up frustrations out, and leaves without getting much of anything promised for Jenny.
When the mysterious Alex Paige shows up at Kate's apartment one evening, out of the blue, she's floored. What could the man, who her sister cheated on him, possibly want?! Words are said, phone numbers are exchanged, and the next thing they know they have plans for the following week. When feelings start to develop between the two, they know they're headed for danger that won't stay hidden from family and friends for long. Between learning about each other, long talks on each others sofa, Alex's dog Bowie, and digging through abandoned houses, the duo begin to lean on one another. A misunderstanding leaves the two pining for each other in the worse way possible. Accusations fly, words are said, and an impromptu flight brings Alex right to Kate's side.
I really enjoyed this book. It was a fun, quick read that really captured my attention and brought a lot of potential real world issues between siblings. There was also a small handful of times that I felt the story could have been drawn out more, BUT it did not take away from the current story, and I absolutely loved this novel. A brilliant 5 Stars to Christen Gillan!
When the mysterious Alex Paige shows up at Kate's apartment one evening, out of the blue, she's floored. What could the man, who her sister cheated on him, possibly want?! Words are said, phone numbers are exchanged, and the next thing they know they have plans for the following week. When feelings start to develop between the two, they know they're headed for danger that won't stay hidden from family and friends for long. Between learning about each other, long talks on each others sofa, Alex's dog Bowie, and digging through abandoned houses, the duo begin to lean on one another. A misunderstanding leaves the two pining for each other in the worse way possible. Accusations fly, words are said, and an impromptu flight brings Alex right to Kate's side.
I really enjoyed this book. It was a fun, quick read that really captured my attention and brought a lot of potential real world issues between siblings. There was also a small handful of times that I felt the story could have been drawn out more, BUT it did not take away from the current story, and I absolutely loved this novel. A brilliant 5 Stars to Christen Gillan!
May 30, 2016
this the the first book by Christen Gillian, but from reading this book you wouldn't know it. Hand Me Down is well written with characters that make you feel for them and with them. I really enjoyed this book.
Kate is a fantastically quirky, self-named hermit. She is works from home, her social life mainly consists of the online gaming community and the few calls and texts with her BFF and former college roomate. She does spend Sundays at her parents house spending time with her parents and trying to avoid her horrible, selfish sister Jenny.
Jenny is divorced and pregnant. The pregnant is why she is divorced. Its her yoga instructors baby. When Jenny is no longer able to live as she is used to she manipulates Kate into asking her ex-husband Alex for money,
Alex and Kate were never close and didn't talk much when he was married to her sister, so he is shocked to see Kate standing on his porch. This marks the begining of a friendship that both would love to see turn into more however there is one big pregnant lady that stands in their way.
I read this book in one sitting. I can't wait to see what Gillan bring us next.
Kate is a fantastically quirky, self-named hermit. She is works from home, her social life mainly consists of the online gaming community and the few calls and texts with her BFF and former college roomate. She does spend Sundays at her parents house spending time with her parents and trying to avoid her horrible, selfish sister Jenny.
Jenny is divorced and pregnant. The pregnant is why she is divorced. Its her yoga instructors baby. When Jenny is no longer able to live as she is used to she manipulates Kate into asking her ex-husband Alex for money,
Alex and Kate were never close and didn't talk much when he was married to her sister, so he is shocked to see Kate standing on his porch. This marks the begining of a friendship that both would love to see turn into more however there is one big pregnant lady that stands in their way.
I read this book in one sitting. I can't wait to see what Gillan bring us next.
June 28, 2016
Hand Me Down by Christen Gillan is a fun quick read.
Kate is a gaming geek. She loves Xbox and is a home body. Alex is an architect. These two should not be a couple. Kate’s sister Jenn is was married to Alex. Not only that, but Alex is older than then Kate by seven years. Alex and Kate were never close when Jenn and Alex were married, but now, Kate can’t imagine life without Alex.
I enjoyed this story. I like the characters of Alex and Kate. They are fun and complex all at the same time. The dynamics in the family are realistic. I really didn’t like Jenn, but it’s important to see the relationship with not only Kate, but Alex. It’s pretty obvious why they didn’t work out. I felt the emotions that Kate went through when she realized she wanted to be with Alex.
I would love a follow up story on these two. Alex is such a sweet guy and Kate is a fun girl. I would love to see how they progress and maybe one day get married and have a family. One can hope…right!
Kate is a gaming geek. She loves Xbox and is a home body. Alex is an architect. These two should not be a couple. Kate’s sister Jenn is was married to Alex. Not only that, but Alex is older than then Kate by seven years. Alex and Kate were never close when Jenn and Alex were married, but now, Kate can’t imagine life without Alex.
I enjoyed this story. I like the characters of Alex and Kate. They are fun and complex all at the same time. The dynamics in the family are realistic. I really didn’t like Jenn, but it’s important to see the relationship with not only Kate, but Alex. It’s pretty obvious why they didn’t work out. I felt the emotions that Kate went through when she realized she wanted to be with Alex.
I would love a follow up story on these two. Alex is such a sweet guy and Kate is a fun girl. I would love to see how they progress and maybe one day get married and have a family. One can hope…right!
July 3, 2016
4 Heartfelt Stars
Hand Me Down is the debut novel from Christen Gillan and I have to say it was very good!! The pace was steady and the story held my interest throughout, with believable characters that you care about.
This is the beautiful story of the somewhat rocky romance between Kate (young, a loner working from home who loves to play video games) and Alex (disillusioned ex brother-in-law...say "WHAT??!!")
When Kate's sister, the detestable Jenny, asks her to beg for money from her ex husband so she can finance repairs on the house they used to share, Kate and Alex start an unlikely "friendship" that quickly develops into more. The heartstrings are definitely pulled (and twisted) as these two try to find their way to love, through some mis-understandings, family drama (Jenny's) and a heart-stopping medical issue.
All in all, an awesome first novel and I definitely will read more from this author!
Hand Me Down is the debut novel from Christen Gillan and I have to say it was very good!! The pace was steady and the story held my interest throughout, with believable characters that you care about.
This is the beautiful story of the somewhat rocky romance between Kate (young, a loner working from home who loves to play video games) and Alex (disillusioned ex brother-in-law...say "WHAT??!!")
When Kate's sister, the detestable Jenny, asks her to beg for money from her ex husband so she can finance repairs on the house they used to share, Kate and Alex start an unlikely "friendship" that quickly develops into more. The heartstrings are definitely pulled (and twisted) as these two try to find their way to love, through some mis-understandings, family drama (Jenny's) and a heart-stopping medical issue.
All in all, an awesome first novel and I definitely will read more from this author!
Read
June 21, 2016Kate forgot that her sister was at her apartment using her kitchen. When Jenny asked her if she always yelled at her game that much. Jenny guilt tripped Kate into going to Alex's house and getting him to fix the pipes in her kitchen. When Kate goes to Alex's house she feels very guilty about it.
Kate has type one diabetes, she works from home, she has her own food restrictions that she has to overcome, she is a gamer. Alex is Jenny's ex husband, doesn't have family left. Architect. Jenny is Kate's older sister, she is a vegan chef, pregnant, a compulsive liar and cheater. Sirah is Kate's best friend, she used to be Kate's roommate. Cares about Kate.
This is my first book by Christen Gillan and it won't be my last. This book is very well written and the characters are very well developed. I loved that I felt very connected to the characters and that I couldn't put this book down.
Kate has type one diabetes, she works from home, she has her own food restrictions that she has to overcome, she is a gamer. Alex is Jenny's ex husband, doesn't have family left. Architect. Jenny is Kate's older sister, she is a vegan chef, pregnant, a compulsive liar and cheater. Sirah is Kate's best friend, she used to be Kate's roommate. Cares about Kate.
This is my first book by Christen Gillan and it won't be my last. This book is very well written and the characters are very well developed. I loved that I felt very connected to the characters and that I couldn't put this book down.
July 5, 2016
This story was real and beautiful and left me with a wonderful book hangover.
Kate is a gamer, a bit of a geek, and a homebody.
Alex is an architect with serious trust issues after a divorce...from Kate's sister.
Kate and Alex were never close during his marriage to her sister, Jenn, but after being asked for a favor from her conniving sister, Kate and Alex hit it off. The book is well written and the situation is a lot less awkward than it sounds. The humor and plot flow seamlessly as Kate and Alex fall in love unexpectedly and deal with all the emotions that go with the territory. It was sweet, swoony, and utterly amazing. This was my first read by this author but won't be my last. I also hope to hear more about this couple.
Kate is a gamer, a bit of a geek, and a homebody.
Alex is an architect with serious trust issues after a divorce...from Kate's sister.
Kate and Alex were never close during his marriage to her sister, Jenn, but after being asked for a favor from her conniving sister, Kate and Alex hit it off. The book is well written and the situation is a lot less awkward than it sounds. The humor and plot flow seamlessly as Kate and Alex fall in love unexpectedly and deal with all the emotions that go with the territory. It was sweet, swoony, and utterly amazing. This was my first read by this author but won't be my last. I also hope to hear more about this couple.
November 18, 2016
Favorite Quotes:
I've been dying to read this story for awhile, unfortunately, it wasn't the book for me. Being an avid Call of Duty gamer, there were some things off that really bothered me (oops). My biggest problem with the book, I really hated all the characters except for maybe Kate and her best friend, Sirah. Maybe it's because I connected to Katie so much because I'm basically her, virgin in her 20's and all, but I could not even come close to forgiving Alex for the way he acted, nothing justified his behavior to me.
"And I'd do it all over again if it meant I got you at the end of it all."Side Note :
I've been dying to read this story for awhile, unfortunately, it wasn't the book for me. Being an avid Call of Duty gamer, there were some things off that really bothered me (oops). My biggest problem with the book, I really hated all the characters except for maybe Kate and her best friend, Sirah. Maybe it's because I connected to Katie so much because I'm basically her, virgin in her 20's and all, but I could not even come close to forgiving Alex for the way he acted, nothing justified his behavior to me.
June 30, 2016
4.5 shining stars
A beautiful read that captivates you from the start as you fall in love with the quiet Kate who's a bit of a loner spending her days working or gaming, the baby of the family.
Alex another quiet soul, bit of a loner also local architect and Kate's ex brother in law.
After a favour to her sister, who you just love to hate. Kate starts to see Alex in a new light, will this be a forbidden love or a hand me down worth holding onto.
A beautiful read full of emotion and humour and a story that simply flows.
A first read from Christen Gillan and most definitely not the last.
A beautiful read that captivates you from the start as you fall in love with the quiet Kate who's a bit of a loner spending her days working or gaming, the baby of the family.
Alex another quiet soul, bit of a loner also local architect and Kate's ex brother in law.
After a favour to her sister, who you just love to hate. Kate starts to see Alex in a new light, will this be a forbidden love or a hand me down worth holding onto.
A beautiful read full of emotion and humour and a story that simply flows.
A first read from Christen Gillan and most definitely not the last.
May 18, 2016
This was a nice quick read, with serious undertones.
I liked that even though this could be considered New Adult or Contemporary it had an underlying lesson at the end of the story.
I liked that even though this could be considered New Adult or Contemporary it had an underlying lesson at the end of the story.
July 11, 2016
I loved this book. I wished it was longer. I received it from goodreads giveaway for my honest unbiased review.
July 12, 2016
This was such a quick and easy read. I did enjoy the storyline however I felt that there was so much left out. I feel that Alex needed more attention. To me everything was just too rushed.
February 25, 2018
Great read. I only wish the story was a bit longer. The ending felt a bit abrupt. It would've been nice to see how they would deal with Sunday dinner's and that whole dynamic with her sister afterwards. Also to see how their relationship strengthens over time. Maybe adding an epilogue would have rounded it out more nicely. Other than that, I really enjoyed this story. The hero being the ex brother-in-law really could have been an automatic ewww read for me. But it was surprisingly sweet story and I give it 4.5 stars. Well done!
July 2, 2016
Holy epic debut, Batman! Just gonna put this out now… grab this book. Read it. Devour it. Feel the emotional involvement I felt with this one. I honestly am floored at how stunning this book is. It kept me totally engrossed through the whole book. Laughed. Cried. Yelled. Wanted to kick the evil stepsisters ass… but besides that, this was an epic tale of finding love where you least expect it and it hits you with a bang.
I think one of the reasons I connected so well with this book is that Kate is a gamer. So am I. I love being a self professed nerd and gamer and just like Kate, I give my all when playing! I loved her spunkiness and her attitude. I loved her fierceness for what she wants. She is also a people pleasure, which I can TOTALLY relate to. What she didn’t expect is finding Alex, who happens to be the evil stepsisters ex husband. These two connect on such a different level. Two totally different souls who find each other and sparks fly. Alex, though bitter, is amazing with Kate. Their banter was amazing and I loved them together. I love how she sticks up for herself when it comes to him as well.
Overall, this book had everything to keep the flow moving and when the book was over, I was begging for more. This is an epic debut and I cannot wait to read more from Gillan as she explores her writing journey. I highly recommend this one!
I think one of the reasons I connected so well with this book is that Kate is a gamer. So am I. I love being a self professed nerd and gamer and just like Kate, I give my all when playing! I loved her spunkiness and her attitude. I loved her fierceness for what she wants. She is also a people pleasure, which I can TOTALLY relate to. What she didn’t expect is finding Alex, who happens to be the evil stepsisters ex husband. These two connect on such a different level. Two totally different souls who find each other and sparks fly. Alex, though bitter, is amazing with Kate. Their banter was amazing and I loved them together. I love how she sticks up for herself when it comes to him as well.
Overall, this book had everything to keep the flow moving and when the book was over, I was begging for more. This is an epic debut and I cannot wait to read more from Gillan as she explores her writing journey. I highly recommend this one!
May 21, 2016
Omg
I'm glad I read this book!!! I was intrigued by Alex and Kate's story. I hope that there are more books to come. Need to write us some more of these fantastic stories Christen Gillan...
I'm glad I read this book!!! I was intrigued by Alex and Kate's story. I hope that there are more books to come. Need to write us some more of these fantastic stories Christen Gillan...
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