What do you think?
Rate this book
The Dixie Warden Rejects MC #5
The Beard Made Me Do It
He’s only a friend.
Those words had haunted him from the moment Jessie James had heard them muttered from the one girl, above all others, that he thought had his back.
Sixteen years later, he still feels those words like a brand on his soul.
Lucky for him he has a son to take care of, a full-time job that demands every single second of the day, and not a single moment to spare for the likes of a woman that won’t stand up for him when he needs her the most.
He’s only a friend.
The words had slipped out of Ellen’s mouth, and before she could recall them or better yet, explain, Jesse is gone from her life for good, taking her heart with him.
She tries to find her way out of the pit of despair, but not one single person, no matter how much she tries, can fill the void that he left in his wake.
Time heals all wounds. Or at least that is how the saying goes.
It’s a crock of crap, though.
Sixteen years pass when Jessie and Ellen see each other again without the influence of the town and bad memories surrounding them, and it’s as if not a single day has passed.
Ellen knows the instant that her eyes see her old love that she’s still just as much in love with him today as she was all those years ago.
The problem is that Jesse wants nothing to do with her. Or at least that’s what he keeps telling himself.
Those words had haunted him from the moment Jessie James had heard them muttered from the one girl, above all others, that he thought had his back.
Sixteen years later, he still feels those words like a brand on his soul.
Lucky for him he has a son to take care of, a full-time job that demands every single second of the day, and not a single moment to spare for the likes of a woman that won’t stand up for him when he needs her the most.
He’s only a friend.
The words had slipped out of Ellen’s mouth, and before she could recall them or better yet, explain, Jesse is gone from her life for good, taking her heart with him.
She tries to find her way out of the pit of despair, but not one single person, no matter how much she tries, can fill the void that he left in his wake.
Time heals all wounds. Or at least that is how the saying goes.
It’s a crock of crap, though.
Sixteen years pass when Jessie and Ellen see each other again without the influence of the town and bad memories surrounding them, and it’s as if not a single day has passed.
Ellen knows the instant that her eyes see her old love that she’s still just as much in love with him today as she was all those years ago.
The problem is that Jesse wants nothing to do with her. Or at least that’s what he keeps telling himself.
229 pages
First published June 28, 2017
About the author
Lani Lynn Vale
138 books6,773 followersLani Lynn Vale is married to the love of her life that she met in high school. She fell in love with him because he was wearing baseball pants. Ten years later they have three perfectly crazy children and a cat named Demon who likes to wake her up at ungodly times in the night. They live in the greatest state in the world, Texas. She writes contemporary and romantic suspense, and has a love for all things romance. You can find Lani in front of her computer writing away in her fictional characters world...that is until her husband and kids demand sustenance in the form of food and drink.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 234 reviews
July 1, 2017
3 she pined after him ⭐️!!!!
**********SPOILERS AHEAD**********
This hero walked away without saying goodbye or breaking up with the heroine but he's acting hurt like she was the one who broke up with him, I get that he got his feelings hurt when she told her mother they were only "friends" but please be a man and stop acting like a little b*tch.
I also didn't like the heroine, she was the girlfriend of the hero from the previous book (also slept with him) so they now have to see each other every time, that hero was in love with her and his heroine has to see her around now..
So now we have exes going around sleeping or dating each other.
She's also been pining after the hero for 14 years, following him with her eyes everywhere he moves.
These heroines really need some backbones. 🙄
"I had the hots for a man who didn’t have the hots for me.
I raised only my eyelashes to watch Jessie from my perch across the room.
It physically hurt to have him within reaching distance.”
“I didn’t think I could handle seeing a woman rubbing up against Jessie’s side, as I’d had to see at the last event I’d been unfortunate enough to attend”
“You don’t care what kind of a mess you left me in fourteen years ago. All you care about is your own fucking self. You don’t even have the balls to apologize. I left Sean because of you. I liked Sean. But the minute you showed up, my whole freakin’ world changed. I couldn’t lie to Sean. I couldn’t continue to live that lie. I’ve loved you since I was a senior in high school. That’s fourteen years, Jessie!”
“There wasn’t a single man I’ve dated since you who stood a chance”
“Every man I’ve ever gone out with was always compared to him”
🙄😒
The ex got pregnant tried to passed the baby as his but it's not in the end they are raising and got custody of the ex's daughter..
So in conclusion I hated both of them..
And I don't want to tell anyone not to read it but I should've saved me the 4$ and skipped this one. Oh well.......
**********SPOILERS AHEAD**********
This hero walked away without saying goodbye or breaking up with the heroine but he's acting hurt like she was the one who broke up with him, I get that he got his feelings hurt when she told her mother they were only "friends" but please be a man and stop acting like a little b*tch.
I also didn't like the heroine, she was the girlfriend of the hero from the previous book (also slept with him) so they now have to see each other every time, that hero was in love with her and his heroine has to see her around now..
So now we have exes going around sleeping or dating each other.
She's also been pining after the hero for 14 years, following him with her eyes everywhere he moves.
These heroines really need some backbones. 🙄
"I had the hots for a man who didn’t have the hots for me.
I raised only my eyelashes to watch Jessie from my perch across the room.
It physically hurt to have him within reaching distance.”
“I didn’t think I could handle seeing a woman rubbing up against Jessie’s side, as I’d had to see at the last event I’d been unfortunate enough to attend”
“You don’t care what kind of a mess you left me in fourteen years ago. All you care about is your own fucking self. You don’t even have the balls to apologize. I left Sean because of you. I liked Sean. But the minute you showed up, my whole freakin’ world changed. I couldn’t lie to Sean. I couldn’t continue to live that lie. I’ve loved you since I was a senior in high school. That’s fourteen years, Jessie!”
“There wasn’t a single man I’ve dated since you who stood a chance”
“Every man I’ve ever gone out with was always compared to him”
🙄😒
The ex got pregnant tried to passed the baby as his but it's not in the end they are raising and got custody of the ex's daughter..
So in conclusion I hated both of them..
And I don't want to tell anyone not to read it but I should've saved me the 4$ and skipped this one. Oh well.......
June 29, 2017
3.75 'Second Chance' Stars
Jessie and Ellen’s story is here, and with it, Lani Lynn Vale gives us, yet again, another absolutely kickass ride into this favorite series of mine. And what a ride it was, one that started fourteen years prior and never left these two heart or mind…
And like any good ride, these one isn’t without some bumps and tricky turns, and the very first one – well, not really considering their past – was when Jessie James, at the time, prospect for The Dixie Wardens Rejects MC, walking into a club party and sees the woman he left fourteen years ago, the woman he never forgot, in the arms of one of his club members.
And now that I had a better paying job that allowed me the time and ability to actually put forth the effort to become one of them, I wouldn’t be fucking it up now.
Even if the woman that still held my heart had her arm around some other man.
A man who was a fully patched member of The Dixie Wardens MC—the very same MC I was trying to become a member of, that is if I didn’t want to kill myself by the time the process was over.
Well, that sure threw a wrench into his well thought out plans. Ellen was just as shocked, if not more than him, so much so that she could no longer continue dating Sean. After all, he didn’t own her heart. That, she had long ago given to Jessie, which had broken it into pieces.
So you see, we have all the ingredients – as much clusterfuck as they seem, lol – for a incredible story, and that’s what we got, because it was evident to everyone, even poor Sean at the time, that these two belong together. What others had no idea was that they had a past, and feelings that easily resurfaced and could no longer stay hidden.
I was a fucking fool in love. Had been for fourteen years and would be for the next fourteen.
“I love you, Jessie,” the whispered words, barely audible, had my hand clenching on her thigh.
There were those words again.
I bent down, examined Ellen’s sleeping face for signs that she was awake, and whispered back, “I love you, too. Always have, always will.”
Once they – and specially Jessie, because man, talk about pushing away! – got their act together, it was easy for them to get back and reveal all those feelings, and love. And here lies my main, PERSONAL, issue with the story, his constant declarations of endless love, which I normally would swoon over and eat all up and crave for more, It’s your second chance, a new start, so if you tried to move on, don’t repeatedly mention you never stopped loving the other. Yes, a tiny detail, and you guys know I’m a picky and detailed oriented bitch, but one tiny snipping in those declarations, and I’m sure I would have love the book even more. Because how could I not? Hello, Lani writes and I devour!!! LOL
Let me take a minute here to praise this universe of loyal men, true brothers, and their awesome women, Lani has given us time and again, and specially these well thought out secondary characters, like it’s the case of Linc, Jessie’s son, who I LOVED too! He was amazing and my heart totally went out to him, so I’m keeping my fingers crossed that Lani will gives his story in one of her future books. He was such a big part of this story, for obvious reasons, but I can’t wait to see his as a man – which we get a glimpse of in the amazing Epilogue.
There were, at least, a few things in life that were constant. My love for Linc, and my want for other things.
Things that included a certain brown-haired beauty that was never far from my mind.
The Beard Made Me Do It had every single element that Lani Lynn Vale spectacularly delivers, a lot of emotional, romantic, suspense, LOL funny, and über steamy moments, that I can never get enough of, and makes me giddy, and craving even more every time I reach the end. I’m so glad that she is the otherworldly writer that she is, that she provides us one of this bundles of deliciousness per month, which I can’t thank enough! The sure brighten me every single month! Talk about super woman author skills! And next, I can’t be it’s almost here and I can say: THE GHOST IS COMING!!! <3 <3 <3 <3
“I love you.” A smile overtook my face, and I lifted my arm, running my hand from his wrist to come to a rest on his bearded face.
“I love you more.”
ARC kindly provided by the author via Enticing Journey Promotions for an honest review
For full review with Release Blitz, check out my blog post,
http://gisspotreviews.com/index.php/2...
Jessie and Ellen’s story is here, and with it, Lani Lynn Vale gives us, yet again, another absolutely kickass ride into this favorite series of mine. And what a ride it was, one that started fourteen years prior and never left these two heart or mind…
And like any good ride, these one isn’t without some bumps and tricky turns, and the very first one – well, not really considering their past – was when Jessie James, at the time, prospect for The Dixie Wardens Rejects MC, walking into a club party and sees the woman he left fourteen years ago, the woman he never forgot, in the arms of one of his club members.
And now that I had a better paying job that allowed me the time and ability to actually put forth the effort to become one of them, I wouldn’t be fucking it up now.
Even if the woman that still held my heart had her arm around some other man.
A man who was a fully patched member of The Dixie Wardens MC—the very same MC I was trying to become a member of, that is if I didn’t want to kill myself by the time the process was over.
Well, that sure threw a wrench into his well thought out plans. Ellen was just as shocked, if not more than him, so much so that she could no longer continue dating Sean. After all, he didn’t own her heart. That, she had long ago given to Jessie, which had broken it into pieces.
So you see, we have all the ingredients – as much clusterfuck as they seem, lol – for a incredible story, and that’s what we got, because it was evident to everyone, even poor Sean at the time, that these two belong together. What others had no idea was that they had a past, and feelings that easily resurfaced and could no longer stay hidden.
I was a fucking fool in love. Had been for fourteen years and would be for the next fourteen.
“I love you, Jessie,” the whispered words, barely audible, had my hand clenching on her thigh.
There were those words again.
I bent down, examined Ellen’s sleeping face for signs that she was awake, and whispered back, “I love you, too. Always have, always will.”
Once they – and specially Jessie, because man, talk about pushing away! – got their act together, it was easy for them to get back and reveal all those feelings, and love. And here lies my main, PERSONAL, issue with the story, his constant declarations of endless love, which I normally would swoon over and eat all up and crave for more, It’s your second chance, a new start, so if you tried to move on, don’t repeatedly mention you never stopped loving the other. Yes, a tiny detail, and you guys know I’m a picky and detailed oriented bitch, but one tiny snipping in those declarations, and I’m sure I would have love the book even more. Because how could I not? Hello, Lani writes and I devour!!! LOL
Let me take a minute here to praise this universe of loyal men, true brothers, and their awesome women, Lani has given us time and again, and specially these well thought out secondary characters, like it’s the case of Linc, Jessie’s son, who I LOVED too! He was amazing and my heart totally went out to him, so I’m keeping my fingers crossed that Lani will gives his story in one of her future books. He was such a big part of this story, for obvious reasons, but I can’t wait to see his as a man – which we get a glimpse of in the amazing Epilogue.
There were, at least, a few things in life that were constant. My love for Linc, and my want for other things.
Things that included a certain brown-haired beauty that was never far from my mind.
The Beard Made Me Do It had every single element that Lani Lynn Vale spectacularly delivers, a lot of emotional, romantic, suspense, LOL funny, and über steamy moments, that I can never get enough of, and makes me giddy, and craving even more every time I reach the end. I’m so glad that she is the otherworldly writer that she is, that she provides us one of this bundles of deliciousness per month, which I can’t thank enough! The sure brighten me every single month! Talk about super woman author skills! And next, I can’t be it’s almost here and I can say: THE GHOST IS COMING!!! <3 <3 <3 <3
“I love you.” A smile overtook my face, and I lifted my arm, running my hand from his wrist to come to a rest on his bearded face.
“I love you more.”
ARC kindly provided by the author via Enticing Journey Promotions for an honest review
For full review with Release Blitz, check out my blog post,
http://gisspotreviews.com/index.php/2...
June 25, 2020
Okay, so even though I love every word Lani has written, want to be friends with every character she has conjured, want to move to Texas tomorrow, I have to admit that from what I had seen of Ellen in Sean’s book….well, I flat plain old hated her guts. Could not stand her. Wouldn’t pee down her throat if her guts were on fire. Hope she hit every limb on the ugly tree as she fell to her doom, blah blah blah (yeah, Lani, that’s for you! Lol).
Then I read Jesse James’s book. (At this point I was only reading it for HIM not HER! I can hold a mean grudge as good as the next book girlfriend.) Their story melted my heart. Ellen was as much a victim of the past as Jesse was. Lani turned around my feelings for Ellen very early in the book and I was actually on her side thinking Jesse was a douchebag for leaving her to begin with! How dare he? This is one of my fav stories of the new Dixie Rejects. The interaction with Jesse and Linc is absolutely heart-warming and REAL. I’d kill to have had a father like that in my life. Ellen and Jesse both suffered a lot in the past as a result of their separation. Watching them navigate being in each other’s life with the past still surrounding them in heartache and despair was poignant. Love the wolf pup! I want one of my own now. Bottom line, Lani did it again! Ellen—I apologize for hating you when I didn’t know you. Jesse—keep the beard under control and let the world salivate at your feet, or, should I say-- eggplant? Thanks, Lani, for giving us another wonderful story and a couple that we could get lost in!
Then I read Jesse James’s book. (At this point I was only reading it for HIM not HER! I can hold a mean grudge as good as the next book girlfriend.) Their story melted my heart. Ellen was as much a victim of the past as Jesse was. Lani turned around my feelings for Ellen very early in the book and I was actually on her side thinking Jesse was a douchebag for leaving her to begin with! How dare he? This is one of my fav stories of the new Dixie Rejects. The interaction with Jesse and Linc is absolutely heart-warming and REAL. I’d kill to have had a father like that in my life. Ellen and Jesse both suffered a lot in the past as a result of their separation. Watching them navigate being in each other’s life with the past still surrounding them in heartache and despair was poignant. Love the wolf pup! I want one of my own now. Bottom line, Lani did it again! Ellen—I apologize for hating you when I didn’t know you. Jesse—keep the beard under control and let the world salivate at your feet, or, should I say-- eggplant? Thanks, Lani, for giving us another wonderful story and a couple that we could get lost in!
March 3, 2018
4 The Beard Made Me Do It Stars
I am really enjoying this series, though I really thought this was going to be Ghost’s book, that’s ok I can wait for him.
Jessie was kind of a douche!! But in a way you want him to be your douche, if that makes sense. I just loved how standoffish he was. He was having NO part in Ellen coming back at freaking all.
It was pretty mutual how they came together again and it was nice that it didn’t feel like a setup or forced.
Really enjoyed the scenes with Link, Jessie’s son and the dynamic he brought to the book. I would mind a Link book later on if I am being honest.
Again not a lot of dramalama and I loved that. Ellen was a character I wasn’t sure I was going to be able to connect to but she was just herself through and through and I was rooting for her.
Really enjoying both narrators they just bring that little extra to the books.
*You don't have to like my review but its 100% my opinion, and I am allowed to have it.*
I am really enjoying this series, though I really thought this was going to be Ghost’s book, that’s ok I can wait for him.
Jessie was kind of a douche!! But in a way you want him to be your douche, if that makes sense. I just loved how standoffish he was. He was having NO part in Ellen coming back at freaking all.
It was pretty mutual how they came together again and it was nice that it didn’t feel like a setup or forced.
Really enjoyed the scenes with Link, Jessie’s son and the dynamic he brought to the book. I would mind a Link book later on if I am being honest.
Again not a lot of dramalama and I loved that. Ellen was a character I wasn’t sure I was going to be able to connect to but she was just herself through and through and I was rooting for her.
Really enjoying both narrators they just bring that little extra to the books.
*You don't have to like my review but its 100% my opinion, and I am allowed to have it.*
June 30, 2017
I don't like second chance romance books. I can't handle long separations. And I don't want to read about the hero/heroine and other women/men. But this is Lani Lynn Vale. She's one of my favorite authors, I've read every one of her books and I'm not stopping now.
My main problem with this one was that I didn't feel the love of the H and h. At all. Not in the beginning, in the middle or at the end. Their relationship left me cold, I wasn't rooting for them, they were just there. I didn't get to know them, like I really wanted to. Where was their love? Why did they love each other? I have no idea.
Another thing that I hated, was that the heroine "only" slept with one man, one time. In 14 years. That's just not believable at all. And it had to be a club brother. How convenient. On the other hand, the hero had 2 women he slept with. One of theses for years. Even if it was just a FWB arrangement. That disappointed me somehow. He gets to have his fun, while still in love with the h and reading all her texts. But never replaying. This didn't sit well with me.
Then we have the issue of the OW. Margot, a drug addict, baby mama. She somehow has the ability to make the Heroe's life hell, for 16 years. Too much for me, too unbelievable. One thing I don't really like about these books from this author, is the woman/slut-shaming. Women are portrayed really, really bad. Drug addictions, maliciousness, cheating and so on. It's always the "enemy" or the "ex" of the hero or heroine. And these types are so extreme that it's unbelievable. I get it, that some relationships end bad, but not every ex is a murdering psychopath.
So that was my rant. I don't hate this book, I'm just a little bit disappointed. Now I'm over it and I'm looking forward to the next book. Can't wait.
My main problem with this one was that I didn't feel the love of the H and h. At all. Not in the beginning, in the middle or at the end. Their relationship left me cold, I wasn't rooting for them, they were just there. I didn't get to know them, like I really wanted to. Where was their love? Why did they love each other? I have no idea.
Another thing that I hated, was that the heroine "only" slept with one man, one time. In 14 years. That's just not believable at all. And it had to be a club brother. How convenient. On the other hand, the hero had 2 women he slept with. One of theses for years. Even if it was just a FWB arrangement. That disappointed me somehow. He gets to have his fun, while still in love with the h and reading all her texts. But never replaying. This didn't sit well with me.
Then we have the issue of the OW. Margot, a drug addict, baby mama. She somehow has the ability to make the Heroe's life hell, for 16 years. Too much for me, too unbelievable. One thing I don't really like about these books from this author, is the woman/slut-shaming. Women are portrayed really, really bad. Drug addictions, maliciousness, cheating and so on. It's always the "enemy" or the "ex" of the hero or heroine. And these types are so extreme that it's unbelievable. I get it, that some relationships end bad, but not every ex is a murdering psychopath.
So that was my rant. I don't hate this book, I'm just a little bit disappointed. Now I'm over it and I'm looking forward to the next book. Can't wait.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 5, 2017
I loved this book, I didn't know it was a series when I started it but I had no problems following the story. I can't wait to read the rest of this series and the next book that will be coming out. This is a second chance romance which isn't always something I like to read but I loved this book. Yes they break up but it's when they are both very young. The reason the hero is upset is stupid but again they are really young. The hero most defiantly makes up for it, and is an amazing hero. I loved him he's a great dad and loves the heroine so much. I also love that the hero is not sleeping around all over the place.
I loved the story and all the characters in this book, and I was drawn right into the world the author created. I had such a fun time reading this book I didn't put it down unless I absolutely had to. I will say that This wasn't huge or big but it bugged me(you know). I loved this book hough and I am so excited to have a new series that I am excited about.
I loved the story and all the characters in this book, and I was drawn right into the world the author created. I had such a fun time reading this book I didn't put it down unless I absolutely had to. I will say that This wasn't huge or big but it bugged me(you know). I loved this book hough and I am so excited to have a new series that I am excited about.
June 21, 2017
I could not wait to get my hands on Jessie and Ellens story once they were introduced in the series and then again while reading I'm only here for the beard I really wanted to know what there story and history is . As always all the characters are lovable the story line is refreshing and unique the couple have off the charts chemistry with steamy sex scenes . My heart hurt for them both in the beginning and the first couple of chapters but once they got together I became really giddy couldn't put my kindle down and when I got to the last page it was super sad but also happy because the epilogue is amazing . Jessie has got to be on my top list of hero's he's such a wonderful father the relationship he has with his son and easy banter is hilarious hope he gets his own book . Ellen is a beautiful heroine inside and out didn't know how I was going to feel about her but ended up really loving her . They made such a charming couple they had an intense attraction for one another . I'm so excited to read Beard up bot only becouse it's a lani lynn vale book but because IT'S GHOSTS BOOK can't wait to see who he really is '' happy clap ''
copy provided for honest review
****************************************
hero = 10 heroine = 10 secondary characters = 10
Chemistry = 10 steam = 10 romance = 10 humor = 10
darkness level = 4 enjoyment = 10 angst = 3
action = 7 story line = 10 mystery = 5
character development = 10 pacing = 10 Plot = 10
cover = 10 stars = 5 author = 10
would I recommend this book = yes
would I re read this book = yes
would I read future books by this author = yes
copy provided for honest review
****************************************
hero = 10 heroine = 10 secondary characters = 10
Chemistry = 10 steam = 10 romance = 10 humor = 10
darkness level = 4 enjoyment = 10 angst = 3
action = 7 story line = 10 mystery = 5
character development = 10 pacing = 10 Plot = 10
cover = 10 stars = 5 author = 10
would I recommend this book = yes
would I re read this book = yes
would I read future books by this author = yes
November 27, 2017
Perfect read. I loved it.
June 29, 2017
Title: The Beard Made Me Do It
Author: Lani Lynn Vale
5+ smashing stars
If there's one thing that i love about the Dixie Warden Rejects MC series, it's the fact that no matter where you are in it, you will always be able to catch up on the characters whose story you read beforehand and finally understand what happened to the ones who we saw in passing. The previous instalment in the series, Seas was hurt by Ellen after she broke up with him and we finally know why she did it and the circumstances behind Sean's hatred toward Jessie.
4.5 sexy dreams
I gobbled this story. Like, "I'll read one more chapter and then go to bed right after this one [and end up reading 80% of it 4 hours later but it was totally worth it]" gobbled it. Jessie and Ellen's story was unexpected and i hadn't expected to love it as much as i did, especially since i had read Sean and Naomi's story not too long ago and may have been biased after their point of view. I wanted and still do want to know more of this MC - these character are so very fascinating and Lani Lynn Vale absolutely knows how to pen a captivating story.
*ARC provided by Author in exchange for an honest review. Reviewed by Kathleen, The Small Girl from A small girl, her man and her books
Goodreads |
[image error]
Amazon |
Facebook |
By Email
Author: Lani Lynn Vale
5+ smashing stars
If there's one thing that i love about the Dixie Warden Rejects MC series, it's the fact that no matter where you are in it, you will always be able to catch up on the characters whose story you read beforehand and finally understand what happened to the ones who we saw in passing. The previous instalment in the series, Seas was hurt by Ellen after she broke up with him and we finally know why she did it and the circumstances behind Sean's hatred toward Jessie.
4.5 sexy dreams
I gobbled this story. Like, "I'll read one more chapter and then go to bed right after this one [and end up reading 80% of it 4 hours later but it was totally worth it]" gobbled it. Jessie and Ellen's story was unexpected and i hadn't expected to love it as much as i did, especially since i had read Sean and Naomi's story not too long ago and may have been biased after their point of view. I wanted and still do want to know more of this MC - these character are so very fascinating and Lani Lynn Vale absolutely knows how to pen a captivating story.
*ARC provided by Author in exchange for an honest review. Reviewed by Kathleen, The Small Girl from A small girl, her man and her books
Goodreads |
[image error]
Amazon |
Facebook |
By Email
July 1, 2017
2,5 stars
This is the only book I've read from this series, so that's probably why it looks like something big is missing here for me. And there are a few things that I still don't understand if they explained and I missed them or they simply forgot about it.
This could've been a really great story, but sadly it left me confused.
Maybe I simply have to read the other books. I don't know.
This is the only book I've read from this series, so that's probably why it looks like something big is missing here for me. And there are a few things that I still don't understand if they explained and I missed them or they simply forgot about it.
This could've been a really great story, but sadly it left me confused.
Maybe I simply have to read the other books. I don't know.
July 2, 2017
The books in this series have been getting better and better and this is my favorite one yet. Not military focused which was a nice change and you can tell the author is finally finding her stride on how she wants to tell a story. Jessie and Ellen were just adorbs and I loved them.
June 28, 2017
***This and other reviews can be found at www.imasweetandsassybookwhore.com ***
*ARC*
I don’t think any of Lani Lynn Vale’s books have ever, for me at least, been as emotional as The Beard Made Me Do It was. From the very start I knew I was going to be in for an emotional ride and what a ride it was. I wasn’t sure how I would feel about Ellen after what happened with Sean but those doubts about her vanished quickly and my heart broke for her.
Jessie and Ellen’s past is not something the club knows about, even Ellen’s brother doesn’t recognize who he is. Jessie hasn’t had it easy ever in life, but he is the best dad that he can be to his son even if it means at times he deals with his own personal hell in the form of the baby momma. He walked away from Ellen years before but he had no idea the emotional damage he would do when he thought he was protecting her. My heart broke for both him and Ellen. Ellen would have given up the world for Jessie; she already gave up her heart to him when she was younger. The text messages absolutely shattered my heart (when you read the book you will understand the meaning of this), I just wanted to make her happy one more. Jessie could be this major asshole who was hurting her with how he treated her and I wanted to kick him myself and scream wake the hell up before you lose her again.
The Beard Made Me Do It had me crying, my heart breaking and mending, smiling, believing in true love with soul mates that were meant to be and most importantly of all in second chances to find your happiness. I loved The Beard Made Me Do It and it is one I think needs to be on top of your TBR lists immediately.
*ARC*
I don’t think any of Lani Lynn Vale’s books have ever, for me at least, been as emotional as The Beard Made Me Do It was. From the very start I knew I was going to be in for an emotional ride and what a ride it was. I wasn’t sure how I would feel about Ellen after what happened with Sean but those doubts about her vanished quickly and my heart broke for her.
Jessie and Ellen’s past is not something the club knows about, even Ellen’s brother doesn’t recognize who he is. Jessie hasn’t had it easy ever in life, but he is the best dad that he can be to his son even if it means at times he deals with his own personal hell in the form of the baby momma. He walked away from Ellen years before but he had no idea the emotional damage he would do when he thought he was protecting her. My heart broke for both him and Ellen. Ellen would have given up the world for Jessie; she already gave up her heart to him when she was younger. The text messages absolutely shattered my heart (when you read the book you will understand the meaning of this), I just wanted to make her happy one more. Jessie could be this major asshole who was hurting her with how he treated her and I wanted to kick him myself and scream wake the hell up before you lose her again.
The Beard Made Me Do It had me crying, my heart breaking and mending, smiling, believing in true love with soul mates that were meant to be and most importantly of all in second chances to find your happiness. I loved The Beard Made Me Do It and it is one I think needs to be on top of your TBR lists immediately.
June 27, 2017
5 SMOOCHES!
No surprise here, I adore Lani Lynn Vale's writing. But the Dixie Wardens Rejects series is fast becoming a favorite. Her writing style, her sense of humor, the way she pairs her couples, the obstacles in their paths—it all works very well for me. The fictional worlds she has created in Kilgore, Texas, Benton, Louisiana, and now Mooresville, Alabama have become some of my top favorite fictional places to visit. Lucky for me, Vale’s creativity knows no bounds, and she takes me on new a trip there once a month.
This is Jesse and Ellen’s story. Teenage first loves, separated by circumstance and parental interference, the love they carried for each other never dissipated. Fast forward fourteen years later and their paths cross again. Though both have attempted to move on, it never really happened for either of them. Their chemistry and attraction to each other was so combustible that when they finally did come together, they exploded off the page. They had a lot of obstacles to overcome and not a small amount of drama to deal with. But they both knew how hard it was to be apart and how much better it was to be together, and they were determined to make it work this time. If only everyone else in their world was on the same page.
I love a good second-chance romance, especially one that began as teenage first loves, and Lani Lynn Vale delivered a fantastic one in The Beard Made Me Do It. Stoking the fires of first love lost but never forgotten, Vale rekindled this couple with plenty of heat, humor and a bit of drama. This story made my heart race, my cheeks burn and kept me laughing out loud well into the night. A stellar addition to an already amazing series! Five smooches from me for The Beard Made Me Do It by Lani Lynn Vale!
~ Danielle Palumbo
No surprise here, I adore Lani Lynn Vale's writing. But the Dixie Wardens Rejects series is fast becoming a favorite. Her writing style, her sense of humor, the way she pairs her couples, the obstacles in their paths—it all works very well for me. The fictional worlds she has created in Kilgore, Texas, Benton, Louisiana, and now Mooresville, Alabama have become some of my top favorite fictional places to visit. Lucky for me, Vale’s creativity knows no bounds, and she takes me on new a trip there once a month.
This is Jesse and Ellen’s story. Teenage first loves, separated by circumstance and parental interference, the love they carried for each other never dissipated. Fast forward fourteen years later and their paths cross again. Though both have attempted to move on, it never really happened for either of them. Their chemistry and attraction to each other was so combustible that when they finally did come together, they exploded off the page. They had a lot of obstacles to overcome and not a small amount of drama to deal with. But they both knew how hard it was to be apart and how much better it was to be together, and they were determined to make it work this time. If only everyone else in their world was on the same page.
I love a good second-chance romance, especially one that began as teenage first loves, and Lani Lynn Vale delivered a fantastic one in The Beard Made Me Do It. Stoking the fires of first love lost but never forgotten, Vale rekindled this couple with plenty of heat, humor and a bit of drama. This story made my heart race, my cheeks burn and kept me laughing out loud well into the night. A stellar addition to an already amazing series! Five smooches from me for The Beard Made Me Do It by Lani Lynn Vale!
~ Danielle Palumbo
June 28, 2017
After being introduced to Jesse and Ellen earlier in the series, their reactions to one another seemed more than just lust at first sight; their connection seemed deeper and the only way that could have been is if they’d known one another before they met because of their association with the Dixie Wardens. So going into The Beard Made Me Do It, I knew Jesse and Ellen’s past must have been left open-ended, and I was anxious to find out how they truly knew each other and how the nature of their relationship and consequent falling out shaped their future selves - individuals who definitely need closure on their past in order to move forward.
For fourteen years, Ellen’s been trying to come to terms with Jesse’s unexplained exit from her life, comparing every man to her high school love and being unable to settle down with anyone else because her heart still belongs to the man who destroyed it when he left and never came back.
Jesse James has been a single father since the day Linc was born and with the shitstorm that always seems to surround him, he thought letting Ellen go, setting her free to achieve all of her goals was what was best for both of them because Jesse didn’t want to bring Ellen into his maelstrom, especially with how unpredictable it was.
But what neither of them truly understood, until they re-entered one another’s lives all these years later, is that his leaving actually destroyed both of them, breaking them in ways that would only mend with a clear understanding of why Jesse left and then a open-mind as to what a future might look like for them as a couple…as a family of three who share an undeniable connection and an overwhelming amount of love.
I love how Lani Lynn Vale introduces future main characters as supporting characters in the other books in her series because just when readers think they have a handle on who these characters are, forming opinions about them, Vale reveals much needed insight into those characters’ back stories, giving the reasons behind their actions and allowing readers to look at the big picture and understand that these characters really don’t have a choice sometimes because the heart wants what it wants and it does the things it needs to in order to get the happiness it so desperately craves. And this idea is illustrated perfectly in The Beard Made Me Do It.
Ellen and Jesse’s book was an amazing read about sacrifice and the importance of finding a home and a family that truly has your back, even though you’re not blood related. And, Linc’s supporting role added such depth to the story line because the way that he acts and loves is all because of the way Jesse raised him, even when they were dirt poor and only had each other to rely on.
Once again, Ghost makes his presence known multiple times within the story, adding to the mystery of who he is and how he has become a man so skilled at getting information and finding people who truly don’t want to be found, and with Ghost’s story hopefully coming soon, there is a lot of information to sort through in order to truly understand a man who doesn’t want to be known.
4.5 Poison Apples (The Fairest of All Book Reviews)
For fourteen years, Ellen’s been trying to come to terms with Jesse’s unexplained exit from her life, comparing every man to her high school love and being unable to settle down with anyone else because her heart still belongs to the man who destroyed it when he left and never came back.
Jesse James has been a single father since the day Linc was born and with the shitstorm that always seems to surround him, he thought letting Ellen go, setting her free to achieve all of her goals was what was best for both of them because Jesse didn’t want to bring Ellen into his maelstrom, especially with how unpredictable it was.
But what neither of them truly understood, until they re-entered one another’s lives all these years later, is that his leaving actually destroyed both of them, breaking them in ways that would only mend with a clear understanding of why Jesse left and then a open-mind as to what a future might look like for them as a couple…as a family of three who share an undeniable connection and an overwhelming amount of love.
I love how Lani Lynn Vale introduces future main characters as supporting characters in the other books in her series because just when readers think they have a handle on who these characters are, forming opinions about them, Vale reveals much needed insight into those characters’ back stories, giving the reasons behind their actions and allowing readers to look at the big picture and understand that these characters really don’t have a choice sometimes because the heart wants what it wants and it does the things it needs to in order to get the happiness it so desperately craves. And this idea is illustrated perfectly in The Beard Made Me Do It.
Ellen and Jesse’s book was an amazing read about sacrifice and the importance of finding a home and a family that truly has your back, even though you’re not blood related. And, Linc’s supporting role added such depth to the story line because the way that he acts and loves is all because of the way Jesse raised him, even when they were dirt poor and only had each other to rely on.
Once again, Ghost makes his presence known multiple times within the story, adding to the mystery of who he is and how he has become a man so skilled at getting information and finding people who truly don’t want to be found, and with Ghost’s story hopefully coming soon, there is a lot of information to sort through in order to truly understand a man who doesn’t want to be known.
4.5 Poison Apples (The Fairest of All Book Reviews)
December 13, 2018
This story is about second chances, finding oneself, love and the struggles that makes a person that much stronger.
There’s so many highs and lows and it flows together perfectly. From hurt and anger, to love and laughter.
Let’s not forget the hot scenes these two share. That ending though leaves your heart beating after it about dropped out. The author continues to hook you from beginning to end and leaves you wanting more of these bearded men. But….you know what’s even better!! The long-awaited story of GHOST is next in the series.
There’s so many highs and lows and it flows together perfectly. From hurt and anger, to love and laughter.
Let’s not forget the hot scenes these two share. That ending though leaves your heart beating after it about dropped out. The author continues to hook you from beginning to end and leaves you wanting more of these bearded men. But….you know what’s even better!! The long-awaited story of GHOST is next in the series.
June 22, 2017
The Dixie Warden Rejects MC or as I call it the Bearded MC series just keeps getting better and better and leaves us yearning for more in the end. Each can be read as a standalone or you can continue in the series and see how our other friends are doing as we see them make appearances. What I love most about this MC series is they are the good MC and live normal lives per say, but are a true family and protect and love and give back to their community!
We meet Ellen and Jessie in prior books, how you say? Well Ellen is Tom Tom’s sister and Jessie is a prospect for the MC. If you read, “I’m only here for the beard” then you may or may not like Ellen. She dated, Sean a member of the MC briefly, but you know that is OK, cause Sean ended up with his other half and if it wasn’t for Ellen he wouldn’t have meant Naomi. Her heart wasn’t in it, why? Duh, because her heart belonged to Jessie. Ok, let me back up here. Ellen and Jessie had a past. They dated in high school and certain events led them apart, whether it was right or wrong is not necessary it was right at the time and needed cause it wasn’t there time to be together. Now is their time once the truth comes out and you see why they were apart.
Jessie is an awesome person and hot man. He chose to raise his son as a single parent being a teenager and while it wasn’t the best situation to be in, he makes a great dad and man for his son, Linc. He may have to deal with the crazy baby mama and she is crazy and not fit to be a mom. Linc is his mini-me and their banter is hilarious. I love how Linc turned out to be and I hope we get to see a story on him in the future.
Ellen may be putting on a brave face for her brother, Tom Tom and her town, but Jessie is slowly destroying her without even realizing it. I love her heart of gold she has towards Linc and the bomb dropper of all bombs towards the end. She finds her true self with the help of Jessie. I love the phone moments that occurred for years, except you kinda want to slap Jessie when you find out the real deal. Seriously, fourteen years is along time to be apart and a response may have brought you together sooner. Just saying!
This story is about second chances, finding oneself, love and the struggles that makes a person that much stronger. Let’s not forget the hot scenes these two share. That ending though leaves your heart beating after it about dropped out. The author continues to hook you from beginning to end and leaves you wanting more of these bearded men. But….you know what’s even better!! The long-awaited story of GHOST is next in the series. We finally get to hear his voice and his side of his story. The mysterious man is going to be revealed with our added bonus of seeing the MC clan and families in there as well. I highly recommend reading Lani’s series if you enjoy MC reads.
March 23, 2018
I'm a bit in a bind now. This story wasn't bad. It has that Lani spark feeling, as I call authors style, so if you read others book in this series, you basically know what you will get. And the story flows, but... I didn't liked how Ellen and Jessie acted first time meeting after about 14 years. On one side, Jessie may acted that way because he still had feelings for her and knew if he let her close, he wouldn't be able to keep those feelings down. But it still was dicky way and I wasn't sure why he did that, even though he kinda explained his reasons, but they just felt like an excuse to me. And Ellen acted like... Well, I just wanted to slap some sense into her. I mean Ellen side of story is: Jessie left her without any word. Breaking his promises to her, breaking her. He was an asshole, he was the one at fault, so why Ellen let him get away with his act without confronting his ass, I have no clue. She always gone about it like a beaten lost puppy, instead as strong woman.
And I think 14 years ago, they both weren't ready for an 'us'. Ellen didn't stand up for them and Jessie had his baggage, that he thought would be to heavy for Ellen and only will drag her down, so he made desicion for her. I hate when they do that, btw. But the point was, 'then' wasn't theirs time, yet.
Even though I liked Jessie character as a man, as a father and I liked Ellen after they settled with each other in the story, but I still couldn't forget theirs beginning in the book.
And I think 14 years ago, they both weren't ready for an 'us'. Ellen didn't stand up for them and Jessie had his baggage, that he thought would be to heavy for Ellen and only will drag her down, so he made desicion for her. I hate when they do that, btw. But the point was, 'then' wasn't theirs time, yet.
Even though I liked Jessie character as a man, as a father and I liked Ellen after they settled with each other in the story, but I still couldn't forget theirs beginning in the book.
July 2, 2017
I have the pleasure of being one of the first people to read Lani's books as an editor on her team but that does not mean I have to like everything she writes....
However, I loved this book! Lol! Ellen and Jessie's story is one of my favorite to date, with the backstory coming back to the present and injecting an already amazing story with a life that made this a five star read without question.
Jessie is a single dad essentially, since his son's mother is a junkie who already cost him the one true love of his life, and his focus since losing her has been trying to be a good father who supports his son and himself without fail. The single father aspect of the storyline also made it very appealing to the female reader- who doesn't love a great dad? ;)
Ellen was all set to go to college and do big things with her life, with parents who had every reason to feel the "low-life" boyfriend with a blue collar job and a kid was not good enough for their daughter. She loses the love of her life without even knowing why and her life takes a turn away from what she had planned. She never forgets him though, and when he appears back in her life years later, all of those feelings are back with a vengeance...
5 Star Must Read!
Kellie for Eye Candy Bookstore
February 4, 2018
Although the characters got on my last nerve at times because of their stubbornness it eventually got better - way better!!! Some people find it impossible to believe that someone would hold on to the love for someone for fourteen years - so much so that you don't have any meaningful relationships within that time - me being the romantic/dreamer that I am can totally understand that - and it all works out the way its supposed to in the end (yeah ok that part may be a tad unbelievable...lol but stranger things have happened). Achilles was a cool as shit addition - I know someone who had a wolf once. The kid - Linc was awesome. Jesse - well what can I say - he struggled his whole life to be able to provide Linc with a good home, what an awesome Dad! Margot - what an awesome asswipe! Ellen is not my favorite heroin in this series but she is a damn good human being for what she was willing to do and she and Jesse were meant to be together!
July 25, 2018
As always all the characters are lovable the story line is refreshing and unique the couple have off the charts chemistry with steamy sex scenes . I have to admit, these books are very addicting.
July 7, 2017
3.5 stars
June 28, 2017
5 SMOOCHES!!
I read and reviewed this book on behalf of RED CHEEKS READS.
REVIEW --> http://redcheeksreads.com/the-beard-m...
"Stoking the fires of first love lost but never forgotten, Vale rekindled this couple with plenty of heat, humor and a bit of drama."
Friend, follow or find RED CHEEKS READS on:
Blog: http://redcheeksreads.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/redcheeksreads
Twitter: https://twitter.com/redcheeksreads
Instagram: http://instagram.com/redcheeksreads
Pinterest: http://pin.it/8qoEAup
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/2...
I read and reviewed this book on behalf of RED CHEEKS READS.
REVIEW --> http://redcheeksreads.com/the-beard-m...
"Stoking the fires of first love lost but never forgotten, Vale rekindled this couple with plenty of heat, humor and a bit of drama."
Friend, follow or find RED CHEEKS READS on:
Blog: http://redcheeksreads.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/redcheeksreads
Twitter: https://twitter.com/redcheeksreads
Instagram: http://instagram.com/redcheeksreads
Pinterest: http://pin.it/8qoEAup
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/2...
April 30, 2020
OK all I can say is this series is making me love bearss even more,
Jesse James is a single dad raising his son the best he can , he had a woman who he wanted forever when he was younger but he didn’t want to hold her back so he let her go.
Now she is back in town her brother is one of his brothers in the club and he still wants her just as bad as he did before.
Ellen didn’t want to lose Jesse she loved him and his son, but he just left one day , she still texted his number not realizing that he still had it.
Things happen for a reason, and now she has a chance to be with him again, getting to know them both over again , she still loves them and realizes she is right where she needs to be,
When Jesse’s ex shows up and starts trying to be a mom they both know something is up, knowing they have each other makes them realize they can get through anything.
Jesse James is a single dad raising his son the best he can , he had a woman who he wanted forever when he was younger but he didn’t want to hold her back so he let her go.
Now she is back in town her brother is one of his brothers in the club and he still wants her just as bad as he did before.
Ellen didn’t want to lose Jesse she loved him and his son, but he just left one day , she still texted his number not realizing that he still had it.
Things happen for a reason, and now she has a chance to be with him again, getting to know them both over again , she still loves them and realizes she is right where she needs to be,
When Jesse’s ex shows up and starts trying to be a mom they both know something is up, knowing they have each other makes them realize they can get through anything.
March 12, 2022
Another great reread.
June 29, 2017
And Jessie’s beard is spectacular!
Ahh… a new Rejects story! I was so ready to sink my hands into a new beard and wallow in another funny, heart-tugging, family-filled romance. And I so did! Ellen and Jessie’s relationship ended years ago with a pain-filled whimper. When they meet years later so much had changed but also remained the same. They had to work through their past, deal with the present and wonder if there
would ever be a future them…
“You feel like my dreams,” he whispered gruffly.”
Jessie is a man who was dealt the worst, and the best, things in life. Through it all, sacrifice for the ones he loves was something he was prepared to do even if it hurts himself. The big things, the little things, they were a measure of Jessie’s heart and how big and loyal it was. He was big and brash and could my heart with the way he loves…
Ellen was angry and hurt, with years only increasing her feelings of love and devastation for the man who had meant everything. Her life had not gone in the direction she thought it would and when Jessie came back into her life she would have to re-evaluate everything… While they would square off for a battle a long time coming, her heart would be tested yet again.
“If it weren’t for physics and law enforcement, I’d be unstoppable.”
And what a battle it was! Theirs is a second chance that is fraught with emotion and such real life that I couldn’t help wallowing in the drama and laughter. This author, her series, have people who you know, who could be your brother, your sister, your family, and makes them your own. They make me laugh, they make me mad. And they make me feel like love, no matter how hard life is, can get you through anything. Jessie, Ellen, Linc… This story is all that and more…
June 26, 2017
This Series is emotional. Bring tissues. Most people think of M C clubs as homes to degenerates on big bikes. Real fans know the family is a tight group who is always there for their members. In this case JJ, Jessie is the single father of a 17-year-old son. While tattooed and a mouth not meant for the typical church, he has done a great job. In doing so, he'd walked away from the one woman he loved to give her a chance at a better life. Not the mother of his son. Now, a prospecting member of the club he finds her again in the arms of one of his brothers.
You will see the life of the man and his almost man son has been hard but they are a team and Ellen has never gotten over him. Seeing him again she knows she can't continue with Sean. However, she still has to hang out at the club or involve her brother who is also a member and has included her as his family making her part of the club.
The story of their reunion isn't easy, but then nothing worthwhile is. Most M C stories involve violence whether warranted by the member or not. In this case, you will find out this story involves emotional violence, not that the person creating the problem won't drive you to seriously consider violence. These are good people you want to see happy. You want them to exceed. The members are old friends of the series, the steam is hot, and the questions about one member set up the next book—hopefully. A book that will make you stop and ponder the goodness of people is not in their look or their words but their actions and day to day effort.
MC fan or not, unless you are opposed to hot, frequent sex, dirty mouths, hot guys, I recommend this one for sure. Just prepare to become addicted to the genre like I did.
Reviewed for Words Turn Me On
You will see the life of the man and his almost man son has been hard but they are a team and Ellen has never gotten over him. Seeing him again she knows she can't continue with Sean. However, she still has to hang out at the club or involve her brother who is also a member and has included her as his family making her part of the club.
The story of their reunion isn't easy, but then nothing worthwhile is. Most M C stories involve violence whether warranted by the member or not. In this case, you will find out this story involves emotional violence, not that the person creating the problem won't drive you to seriously consider violence. These are good people you want to see happy. You want them to exceed. The members are old friends of the series, the steam is hot, and the questions about one member set up the next book—hopefully. A book that will make you stop and ponder the goodness of people is not in their look or their words but their actions and day to day effort.
MC fan or not, unless you are opposed to hot, frequent sex, dirty mouths, hot guys, I recommend this one for sure. Just prepare to become addicted to the genre like I did.
Reviewed for Words Turn Me On
June 28, 2017
Review by: Jennifer
(4.5 stars)
YES, read all the previous books, these are not stand alones, you will be very confused, lost, not sure of what is going on.... you get the point. Jessie has had a bit of a rough go. Single parent, crazy baby mama drama, a love that he lost long, long ago, that just so happens to end up in the same place as he is. Big, no huge, problem; she is with one of his brothers, and the sister of another brother. So he will keep on going the way he has, ignoring her and hoping that maybe he can get over her.
Ellen's life has been anything but easy, being broken so young, and then never really getting over it, has altered her dreams. When she moves to be closer to her brother, it never occurred to her that her one and only would end up in the same place. Trying to avoid him turns out to be harder than she thought it would, and then she goes and sends him a text that lets him know how she is feeling and that opens the doors of hope for both of them. But is it meant to be or are they better off without each other?
True to Lani Lynn Vale fashion, this gives us the excitement and drama; with a bad boy bearded biker. A story line that is so freaking amazing. My only issue, and I can not even believe I have one, as I love love love LLV. I hated Ellen :( For the first almost half of this story, she was a whiney cry baby that was just annoying and then magically the second half of the story it was almost as if she was a different person. I liked her by the end of the book, so I guess that's what counts, but I do have to give this 4.5 stars.
(4.5 stars)
YES, read all the previous books, these are not stand alones, you will be very confused, lost, not sure of what is going on.... you get the point. Jessie has had a bit of a rough go. Single parent, crazy baby mama drama, a love that he lost long, long ago, that just so happens to end up in the same place as he is. Big, no huge, problem; she is with one of his brothers, and the sister of another brother. So he will keep on going the way he has, ignoring her and hoping that maybe he can get over her.
Ellen's life has been anything but easy, being broken so young, and then never really getting over it, has altered her dreams. When she moves to be closer to her brother, it never occurred to her that her one and only would end up in the same place. Trying to avoid him turns out to be harder than she thought it would, and then she goes and sends him a text that lets him know how she is feeling and that opens the doors of hope for both of them. But is it meant to be or are they better off without each other?
True to Lani Lynn Vale fashion, this gives us the excitement and drama; with a bad boy bearded biker. A story line that is so freaking amazing. My only issue, and I can not even believe I have one, as I love love love LLV. I hated Ellen :( For the first almost half of this story, she was a whiney cry baby that was just annoying and then magically the second half of the story it was almost as if she was a different person. I liked her by the end of the book, so I guess that's what counts, but I do have to give this 4.5 stars.
June 28, 2017
Holy Hell, how I freakin' LOVE LOVE LOVE this author so very much! I will never stop saying this, so here goes, there isn't a book she's written that I haven't absolutely LOVED! And this title is the best yet, as I smile every time I see it. Ellen fell in love with Jessie James when she was a teenager. He left her after he overheard a comment that broke his heart, and never looked back. Fourteen years later, they run into each other again, and the feelings are flying everywhere like they were never apart, even with all of the bad memories. But Jessie refuses to have anything to do with her, or at least that's the act he's putting on. Will they ever clear the air for good? There is so many layers to this story, that my pitiful description could never do it justice, so instead of writing a review, I should just say,"GO READ THE BOOK!" over and over again, but I won't. (Although you should JUST GO READ THE BOOK!) There's no other way to describe Lani Lynn Vale's writing style as anything other than brilliant, as once again, she put out another angst filled, sexy masterpiece, with some f-bomb worthy twists thrown in for good measure. And, of course, with any of her MC's, the cast of secondaries are hilarious & highly colorful, plus a 16 year old boy who kept me laughing hard throughout. I never wanted this book to end, and the next book in whatever series she goes to next, I'll be anxiously waiting for with great impatience! (Seriously how can anyone refuse a book with that HAWT cover on it?) HIGHLY HIGHLY HIGHLY HIGHLY and guess what?! HIGHLY RECOMMEND!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 234 reviews