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The Darkest Sunrise #3
Across the Horizon
From USA Today bestselling author Aly Martinez comes a sizzling standalone contemporary romance.
“Sometimes love happens when you least expect it.” That was what my husband’s mistress told me the day I found out about their affair.
I didn’t believe it until five minutes later when mouth-watering celebrity chef Tanner Reese walked up, tossed his arm around my shoulders, and told my cheating husband to take a hike.
Tanner and I couldn’t have been more different. He spent his weekends at clubs, rubbing elbows with fellow A-listers. I spent mine in yoga pants with cheese boards and a glass of wine—or six.
Our relationship shouldn’t have worked, but it did. That is until Tanner proved to me that even though love happens when you least expect it...
So does heartbreak.
This is a standalone spin-off of The Darkest Sunrise Duet. It contains no spoilers and can be read before or after The Darkest Sunrise.
“Sometimes love happens when you least expect it.” That was what my husband’s mistress told me the day I found out about their affair.
I didn’t believe it until five minutes later when mouth-watering celebrity chef Tanner Reese walked up, tossed his arm around my shoulders, and told my cheating husband to take a hike.
Tanner and I couldn’t have been more different. He spent his weekends at clubs, rubbing elbows with fellow A-listers. I spent mine in yoga pants with cheese boards and a glass of wine—or six.
Our relationship shouldn’t have worked, but it did. That is until Tanner proved to me that even though love happens when you least expect it...
So does heartbreak.
This is a standalone spin-off of The Darkest Sunrise Duet. It contains no spoilers and can be read before or after The Darkest Sunrise.
248 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 6, 2018
About the author
Aly Martinez
62 books7,583 followersOriginally from Savannah, Georgia, USA Today bestselling author Aly Martinez now lives in South Carolina with her four young children.
Never one to take herself too seriously, she enjoys cheap wine, charcuterie boards, and her mildly neurotic golden retriever. It should be known, however, that she hates pizza and ice cream, almost as much as writing her bio in the third person.
She passes what little free time she has reading anything and everything she can get her hands on, preferably with a super-sized tumbler of wine by her side.
Never one to take herself too seriously, she enjoys cheap wine, charcuterie boards, and her mildly neurotic golden retriever. It should be known, however, that she hates pizza and ice cream, almost as much as writing her bio in the third person.
She passes what little free time she has reading anything and everything she can get her hands on, preferably with a super-sized tumbler of wine by her side.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 456 reviews
December 6, 2018
4 stars!!
The Darkest Sunrise duet were two of my favorite books of 2017. They gave me all the feels and I loved them so much. When I saw Aly Martinez newest stand-alone Across the Horizon was starring two of the side characters (Porter's brother and Charlotte's best friend) I was ecstatic to read it. Aly's books and writing are always amazing and this book was a quality read. It didn't have near as many feels, but was still a great read.
Tanner Reese is a chef but lately he's spent more of his time in front of a camera instead of in the kitchen. Although he's extremely successful, his life isn't where he wants it. He's got a crazy ex and is working towards trying to find his happy place. When he meets Rita, the last thing either one of them expects is to fall in love. Rita has recently filed for divorce after finding out her husband was cheating. It's messy and she's not in a place to start anything new with anyone, but sometimes love happens when you least expect it.
Tanner Reese. Sigh. I adored him. Tanner is fun, charismatic, a mama's boy, sexy, and sweet. He's exactly the type of guy someone like Rita needs. Rita and Tanner are the perfect pairing. They don't seem like they would be at first, but they just fit. I loved Rita as well. She was going through a lot so I understood why she had reservations, I just wish that things would have gotten sorted a little earlier on. The end of this book was fantastic, though and the epilogue was perfection!
We didn't get a ton of Charlotte and Porter but I liked getting to see them some. If you haven't read their duet you really need to! But it's not necessary to enjoy this one. It can be read as a complete stand-alone.
Aly Martinez has written some of my favorite books. She writes romance so well. This book has a perfect amount of laughs, angst, emotion, and it was super entertaining to read. I definitely recommend it!
The Darkest Sunrise duet were two of my favorite books of 2017. They gave me all the feels and I loved them so much. When I saw Aly Martinez newest stand-alone Across the Horizon was starring two of the side characters (Porter's brother and Charlotte's best friend) I was ecstatic to read it. Aly's books and writing are always amazing and this book was a quality read. It didn't have near as many feels, but was still a great read.
Tanner Reese is a chef but lately he's spent more of his time in front of a camera instead of in the kitchen. Although he's extremely successful, his life isn't where he wants it. He's got a crazy ex and is working towards trying to find his happy place. When he meets Rita, the last thing either one of them expects is to fall in love. Rita has recently filed for divorce after finding out her husband was cheating. It's messy and she's not in a place to start anything new with anyone, but sometimes love happens when you least expect it.
“She was my brain's favorite subject, my subconscious' favorite obsession, and my heart's greatest torture.”
Tanner Reese. Sigh. I adored him. Tanner is fun, charismatic, a mama's boy, sexy, and sweet. He's exactly the type of guy someone like Rita needs. Rita and Tanner are the perfect pairing. They don't seem like they would be at first, but they just fit. I loved Rita as well. She was going through a lot so I understood why she had reservations, I just wish that things would have gotten sorted a little earlier on. The end of this book was fantastic, though and the epilogue was perfection!
We didn't get a ton of Charlotte and Porter but I liked getting to see them some. If you haven't read their duet you really need to! But it's not necessary to enjoy this one. It can be read as a complete stand-alone.
Aly Martinez has written some of my favorite books. She writes romance so well. This book has a perfect amount of laughs, angst, emotion, and it was super entertaining to read. I definitely recommend it!
January 14, 2019
3 Stars
This was a decent enough read, and I enjoyed it well enough; however, I just didn't feel that drawn to the characters or the storyline. I do have overly high expectations when it comes to Aly Martinez, though, so that was probably a factor.
Oh well, they can't all be 5-star reads and this was a decent enough way to pass the time.
Just not a favorite.
This was a decent enough read, and I enjoyed it well enough; however, I just didn't feel that drawn to the characters or the storyline. I do have overly high expectations when it comes to Aly Martinez, though, so that was probably a factor.
Oh well, they can't all be 5-star reads and this was a decent enough way to pass the time.
Just not a favorite.
December 7, 2018
*****FOUR STARS*****
{ARC Generously Provided by Author}
”ACROSS THE HORIZON” is a spin-off of the Darkest Sunrise duet. The couple in this story is Porter’s younger brother and Charlotte’s best friend. We met Tanner and Rita in the previous story and knew that they became romantically involved but never got their backstory until now. Their romance starts at about the same time that Porter and Charlotte’s did, but without all the crazy drama, and luckily we don't have to relive it in this book!
Rita meets Tanner not long after her marriage falls apart when she finds out her husband has been having an affair. All signs would point to Tanner being a rebound for Rita, but as the story unfolds it becomes clear that these two were meant to be.
While I thought the story was enjoyable it was nowhere near as good as the previous books. There was a little bit of drama and angst, and a good dose of steam, but the story was missing that spark I come to expect from an Aly Martinez book. It’s still worth picking up for those who are fans of this author. I did love Tanner and I think readers are going to fall for him as well.
Here are my overall ratings:
Hero: 4.5
Heroine: 4
Plot: 4
Angst: 4
Steam: 4.5
Chemistry Between Hero & Heroine: 4
ACROSS THE HORIZON is currently available!
AMAZON US: https://amzn.to/2OdWFKW
AMAZON UK: https://amzn.to/2yV8rVt
AMAZON AU: https://amzn.to/2RJIdfV
AMAZON CA: https://amzn.to/2PItzbk
{ARC Generously Provided by Author}
”ACROSS THE HORIZON” is a spin-off of the Darkest Sunrise duet. The couple in this story is Porter’s younger brother and Charlotte’s best friend. We met Tanner and Rita in the previous story and knew that they became romantically involved but never got their backstory until now. Their romance starts at about the same time that Porter and Charlotte’s did, but without all the crazy drama, and luckily we don't have to relive it in this book!
Rita meets Tanner not long after her marriage falls apart when she finds out her husband has been having an affair. All signs would point to Tanner being a rebound for Rita, but as the story unfolds it becomes clear that these two were meant to be.
While I thought the story was enjoyable it was nowhere near as good as the previous books. There was a little bit of drama and angst, and a good dose of steam, but the story was missing that spark I come to expect from an Aly Martinez book. It’s still worth picking up for those who are fans of this author. I did love Tanner and I think readers are going to fall for him as well.
Here are my overall ratings:
Hero: 4.5
Heroine: 4
Plot: 4
Angst: 4
Steam: 4.5
Chemistry Between Hero & Heroine: 4
ACROSS THE HORIZON is currently available!
AMAZON US: https://amzn.to/2OdWFKW
AMAZON UK: https://amzn.to/2yV8rVt
AMAZON AU: https://amzn.to/2RJIdfV
AMAZON CA: https://amzn.to/2PItzbk
December 2, 2018
ACROSS THE HORIZON: Is a standalone romance novel by author Aly Martinez. In this we meet Rita & Tanner. Spoken in Dual POV’S
The first chapter we encounter Rita’s heartbreak as the wind is knocked out of her sails as she faces a heartbreaking divorce not of her choosing as she walks away from her seven year old marriage when she catches her husband cheating.
He was her first love and now he's also her first heartbreak. Instead of wallowing in a downward spiral of despair she has great friends which hold her up and give her the boost she needs to carry on with life as a single woman.
Tanner Reese he is Porter Reese's brother (his story was told in the emotional duet, The Darkest Sunrise and The Brightest Sunset ). He is a celebrity chef taking the world by storm with his own cooking show on television which has many a woman tuning in as he takes off his shirt mid way through the show, he also has a few successful restaurants with his brother Porter.
But his personal life has also taken a hit with his last relationship which he is still paying for.
How Tanner and Rita met was a unique perfect first meeting as first meetings go, it garnered all the feels and I couldn't wait to read more pages, more words, more chapters to see how their romance progressed.
The author set the perfect pace for this story, the romance, the heartache, the gut wrenching moments that stole my breath away, just set the ideal backdrop to an unforgettable romance that will touch your heart and leave you breathless. This was such an unputdownable read I absorbed it like a sponge I couldn't get enough of these characters, the wit, their banter, the angst had me enjoying this book fully.
December 16, 2018
4 Stars
Overall Opinion: This was an unexpected surprise! I loved these two's witty banter and how they fell in love even though the timing was awful for both of them. My only complaint is that I wanted more time after their conflict was resolved before the epilogue. It would've been nice experiencing them getting through their struggles together and finding their individual happiness while leaning on each other. I also was left with a few unanswered questions in the end that leave me with a little bit of that nagging feeling that something was missing (see below closure spoiler). Overall, it was a fun read and while it does go along with the duet it is not necessary to read them to enjoy this one.
Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Rita and Tanner's story. Rita discovers that her husband has been cheating on her and her world is turned upside down. Tanner meets her at an event that he is helping cater for his brother for her work, and he saves her from a confrontation with her soon to be ex husband. He then strongly pursues the intriguing Rita even though she is not in a place to start a relationship. There is some ex drama, some hot sexy times, and some laugh out loud moments...and they get a HEA.
POV: This alternated between Rita and Tanner's POV.
Overall Pace of Story: Good. I never skimmed, and I thought it flowed well.
Instalove:Kind of. They move pretty quickly in terms of deeper feelings, but it didn't feel unnatural.
H rating: 5 stars. Tanner. I loved him! He was super sweet, witty, and sexy!
h rating: 4 stars. Rita. I liked her. I felt bad for her situations, and I greatly appreciated that she kept her dignity and sass through it all.
Sadness level: Low, no tissues needed
Push/Pull: Yes
Heat level: Hot. They have some hot tension, chemistry, and scenes -- but not so much it takes away from the story.
Descriptive sex: Yes
OW/OM drama: Yes
Sex scene with OW or OM: No
Cheating: Not between mcs
Separation: Yes
Possible Triggers: Yes
Closure: This had a great epilogue for their relationship and what I would call a HEA ending . I did have a few unanswered questions in the end though
Safety: This one should be Safe for most safety gang readers
Overall Opinion: This was an unexpected surprise! I loved these two's witty banter and how they fell in love even though the timing was awful for both of them. My only complaint is that I wanted more time after their conflict was resolved before the epilogue. It would've been nice experiencing them getting through their struggles together and finding their individual happiness while leaning on each other. I also was left with a few unanswered questions in the end that leave me with a little bit of that nagging feeling that something was missing (see below closure spoiler). Overall, it was a fun read and while it does go along with the duet it is not necessary to read them to enjoy this one.
Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Rita and Tanner's story. Rita discovers that her husband has been cheating on her and her world is turned upside down. Tanner meets her at an event that he is helping cater for his brother for her work, and he saves her from a confrontation with her soon to be ex husband. He then strongly pursues the intriguing Rita even though she is not in a place to start a relationship. There is some ex drama, some hot sexy times, and some laugh out loud moments...and they get a HEA.
POV: This alternated between Rita and Tanner's POV.
Overall Pace of Story: Good. I never skimmed, and I thought it flowed well.
Instalove:Kind of. They move pretty quickly in terms of deeper feelings, but it didn't feel unnatural.
H rating: 5 stars. Tanner. I loved him! He was super sweet, witty, and sexy!
h rating: 4 stars. Rita. I liked her. I felt bad for her situations, and I greatly appreciated that she kept her dignity and sass through it all.
Sadness level: Low, no tissues needed
Push/Pull: Yes
Heat level: Hot. They have some hot tension, chemistry, and scenes -- but not so much it takes away from the story.
Descriptive sex: Yes
OW/OM drama: Yes
Sex scene with OW or OM: No
Cheating: Not between mcs
Separation: Yes
Possible Triggers: Yes
Closure: This had a great epilogue for their relationship and what I would call a HEA ending . I did have a few unanswered questions in the end though
Safety: This one should be Safe for most safety gang readers
December 9, 2018
READ MY REVIEW ON THE BLOG
When two smartasses meet it can go two ways: they hate each other or they are in complete harmony and their verbal sparring is the spice in their relationship. Rita and Tanner are the latter - there is no doubt that they belong together from the first moment they meet. They just work. The problem? Neither of them has business being in a relationship, both of them have an identity crisis and a lot of baggage to work through. Rita personally - her soon-to-be-ex-husband's betrayal cut deep and rattled her to the core, Tanner professionally and personally - he is a famous tv chef, an eligible bachelor because of his looks, fortune and charm but filming a good portion of his time has taken the joy out of cooking. There is also the issue with his ex who threatens to tell lies in a tell-all book that could cost him his job. A dilemma he needs to solve.
Rita used to be a trophy wife. She gave up seven years of her life to an undeserving douchebag and lost herself along the way and she wishes nothing more than to find the girl she used to be, the one with dreams and hopes and a plan. There were so many signs that Rita had only buried them, signs that showed me that she was still her own person, even though her husband had done everything to make her his little wifey. The strength and spine to come back from the blow she was dealt is immense and the trust issues that come along with it are understandable. Did I like how she worked ultimately through them ? No, but only because Tanner was so freaking endearing and charming.
She didn’t just laugh— she laughed. Rich and melodic, filled with honest-to-God amusement that couldn’t be faked. And in a world where everything was faked for my benefit, it was the most intoxicating sound I’d ever heard.
Tanner. Le sigh. What a man. He was everything a woman should look for in a man. Full of humor and mischief, smart, good to the core and so incredibly gone for Rita from the get-go. He wanted to make her happy and his determination to make it happen made him selfless. He would have walked through hell and back if it meant that Rita got what she needed. What's not to love? And when they were together? Perfection. I fell head over heels in love along with them. Their relationship may be really insta but, I've said it before, if it's well done I can totally get on board with it an boy, was it well done.
It was then that I realized she was more beautiful than any other woman I had ever met, and not because of the way she looked— which at the moment was rather ridiculous. It was just… That was the exact second I realized I’d found her.
Tanner's relationship with his brother, the ribbing and good-natured competition they had going was also pretty awesome. Rita's ex-husband, however, was a piece of work I loved to hate.
I have yet to read some of Aly Martinez's books but I love that I still have catching up to do since I savor her stories. ACROSS THE HORIZON is so typical Martinez style and so not. It's got some of the angst I'm used to but mostly it's got a lot of laugh-out-loud moments that make this story a lot of fun to read. I got such a kick out of it and smiled pretty much most of the book.
While God had not given me the wherewithal to chase a good woman, he had sent me a good woman who thought this inability was funny. I could work with that.
THE FALL UP started my love affair with Aly Martinez's books and we have been going steady for years. ACROSS THE HORIZON is just another reason to carry on with it.
She glared. I fell in love again.
Across The Horizon is tied to the "The Darkest Sunrise" Duet but can be read as a standalone.
March 2, 2021
Rita and Tanner are one of the sweetest couple I have read and I couldn’t get enough of them, I wanted the book to go on and on and on so that I could read more of their banter…
After a certain time, my face ached because of the constant goofy smile that remained on my face, reading them. Their interaction was one of a kind, both sweet and funny, and most definitely endearing! They are priceless together. Rita and Tanner’s one liners are one of the best banter I have ever read.
Tanner meets Rita at a very inconvenient time because she was in the middle of a nasty divorce and her ex was delusional, thinking they could make it work after he cheated on her for 6 months and made his mistress pregnant.
Meanwhile, Tanner was also dealing with a crazy and mean ex during that time, who claimed she was pregnant with his child and who wanted to write a book about him that would be full of lies. Tanner is a famous chef who also has a TV show, where he cooks, sometimes showing his sexy abs :)))
Although he had lots of fans attacking him and despite some casual affairs he had so far, he was one of the good guys, definitely one of the best guys. And when he met Rita, he just knew that it was her, the woman who would make the casual life stop, the woman who he should keep. That’s why, despite the very unfortunate timing, he insisted that they should make it work.
Rita was also strongly attracted to him and as soon as she saw how sweet he was instead of being a spoiled cocky bastard because of fame and money, she also couldn’t let him go.
So their relationship begins during her divorce, before she actually got divorced. Although Tanner is the main pursuer of this relationship, he sees that Rita needs it slow and casual for the time being and so he tries to do it slow (albeit unsuccessfully 😊)
There is only one mistake Tanner makes, he keeps the crazy ex’s pregnancy story hidden from her, fearing that she would think the situation is very similar to her cheating husband’s. Other than that, he is perfection!
I also loved Rita and her sense of humor. She was smart, sexy, sweet and funny.
***********************************************
Up until %70, the book was perfection for me – my type of characters, my type of romance and all…
***********************************************
At %70, the writer tries to create some drama and it is so exaggerated, unnecessary and childish that I was really annoyed.
I got pissed at Rita, pitied Tanner and got disappointed that my 5-star book was going down!!!
***********************************************
Here is what happens:
During the last part of the book, Rita pushes Tanner away for like 2 months and her reasons are childish and she sounds like a spoiled child most of the time.
And the way she decided to go back to Tanner pissed me even more because it was her friend who made her see how wrong she was. I really wonder if she would ever go back to Tanner if her friend hadn’t made her see what kind of a moron she was!
Of course, I was happy when I finally got to see their HEA but the last part ruined it a little.
The book also leaves a bit of a loose end that still keeps me bothered but I guess we need to assume that everything was OK about that issue.
All in all, I am happy that I read this book because for most of the time, it made me so very happy. I just wish it would continue to be a 5-star read for me but Rita’s pushing him away in the last part after both of them said “I love you”s was annoying. She should have pushed him away at the very beginning if she wanted to do some soul searching and find her real self.
Sometimes, while being focused on the fact that they have met at the wrong time, one may forget to be grateful that fate has chosen for them to meet at all and that’s what Rita did for a while until her friend brought her to her senses!
If you ask me, I would still recommend the book to you just for the fun of it. Go ahead and read it, enjoy their banter and try not to be too annoyed by the last bit of the book 😊
***********************************************
Writing & Safety:
It is written in dual point of view and it is more fun than being hot. Do not expect much passion, it is rather on the funny and emotional side.
And it is safe with no cheating of the main characters and they do not sleep with other people after they meet. If you don't mind that they begin their relationship while she was legally still married, it is totally safe.
***********************************************
Here are some QUOTES from the book.
For the complete fun, you should read the book, of course 😊
My nerves were thrumming like an electrical current as I walked to the front entrance. Sucking in one last breath that did nothing to calm me, I pushed my sunglasses up to the top of my head, slapped on an award-winning smile, and walked inside.
…
Seriously. I was terrible at this crap. This was why God had graced me with the abs-and-smile package. He had known I couldn’t handle the responsibility of chasing a good woman.
I felt Sidney’s gaze land on me. “Are you…okay?”
“Yeah. Of course. Why?”
She barked a laugh. “I’m not going to lie. Seeing a man like you freaking out over my girl is doing some really good things to my romantic side.”
***
“What are you doing here?”
“Not stalking you. That’s for sure.” Yes. That was what came out of my mouth. She laughed musically. Yes. That’s what came out of her mouth.
While God had not given me the wherewithal to chase a good woman, he had sent me a good woman who thought this inability was funny. I could work with that.
***
Dinner wasn’t enough. Though I had a feeling it wouldn’t have been enough if I’d booked us a fourteen-day cruise to Alaska—or somewhere equally cold so she’d never want to leave the room.
***
She wasn’t ready for what I wanted from her.
But I’d wait.
For Rita… I. Would. Wait.
***
Greg.
Fucking Greg.
Where was a bubbling volcano in need of a human sacrifice when I needed one?
***
Her lips parted, a gasp fluttering out. “Dear God. Who’s flirting now?”
“Me. Absolutely. Unquestionably. Me. Christ, it’s been three days and you’re just now catching on to this?”
***
As the sexual fog dissipated, the gears in my mind started turning again. Specifically, the part of my brain that controlled post-dry-hump mortification. …
“Tomorrow…” he started, pausing to shift to the side. Burying my face in his chest, I finished the thought for him.
“Tomorrow, we are going to have couple’s electrical shock therapy in hopes of erasing that from both of our memories forever.”
He rested his hand in the curve of my hip and gave me a gentle squeeze. “I see the blood hasn’t returned to your head yet. I’ll give you a minute to recover. Because there is no fucking way I’m ever letting anyone take that away from me. Tomorrow, I’m forking over my life savings to buy a mountain and then I’m paying someone to carve every single detail of the last ten minutes into the side of it so that the sexiness of watching and feeling you come against my c*ck can be passed down through the ages for all of eternity.”
***
“Slow,” he murmured against my nipple.
“Noooo, please no more slow. I’m dying here.”
His head popped up, his eyes dancing with humor. “I can’t be certain, but I don’t think anyone has ever actually died from sexual neglect.”
I threw my head back against the pillow. “Oh, goodie. I get to be patient zero.”
***
“You’re wicked good in bed though, so I’ll learn to deal.”
“We weren’t in bed, and I didn’t do anything. All you know is that I can properly hold on while you sex me up on a rubber mat.”
He chuckled. “Good to know I did not fuck the smartass out of you.”
“Honey, nobody’s dick is that big.”
*********************************************
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January 2, 2019
*ARC kindly provided by author in exchange for an honest review. ❤❤❤
Expected publication: December 6th 2018
---------------------------
Aly Martinez is one of my favorite authors and I'm sooooo excited for this book. :)
January 14, 2019
My first DNF of the year and I am pretty surprised by it being with this author.
I read 52% of this book so I have no problem giving it a rating or reviewing it.
I have only read one other book previously by Aly Martinez and I simply adored it (The Fall Up - which was a total 5 star experience) so hence my surprise here.
The main problems I seem to be having is with the MC's.
I cannot relate to them at all.
Rita: stop calling him honey, you just met him. (also not my personal favorite word of endearment)
Tanner : I hate smoking (another pet peeve of mine)and you are supposed to be a top chef. How can you even taste your food.
Aside from those 2 gripes. This story just didn't read right to me. Rita has just found out that her husband of 7 years is cheating on her and his mistress is pregnant. She has had a couple of weeks to come to terms with it when she meets Tanner but it all feels so implausible. I know her marriage wasn't perfect and she was betrayed but can you really switch gears that quickly. I suspect not.
Even some of the humor in this book didn't really gel with me. It appeared too contrived and I didn't find myself smiling or laughing.
🙁🙁🙁🙁🙁🙁🙁🙁🙁
I have already seen a couple of good reviews for this book by friends on this site, so maybe it is just me . I could continue with this by skimming to see if it gets any better but why bother when I have so many books at present that I want to read.
****I upped my rating to two stars as to be fair, the writing is fine and I don't think it is a terrible book. I really think that the problems is: I am just not enamored at all by either of the MC's.****
I read 52% of this book so I have no problem giving it a rating or reviewing it.
I have only read one other book previously by Aly Martinez and I simply adored it (The Fall Up - which was a total 5 star experience) so hence my surprise here.
The main problems I seem to be having is with the MC's.
I cannot relate to them at all.
Rita: stop calling him honey, you just met him. (also not my personal favorite word of endearment)
Tanner : I hate smoking (another pet peeve of mine)and you are supposed to be a top chef. How can you even taste your food.
Aside from those 2 gripes. This story just didn't read right to me. Rita has just found out that her husband of 7 years is cheating on her and his mistress is pregnant. She has had a couple of weeks to come to terms with it when she meets Tanner but it all feels so implausible. I know her marriage wasn't perfect and she was betrayed but can you really switch gears that quickly. I suspect not.
Even some of the humor in this book didn't really gel with me. It appeared too contrived and I didn't find myself smiling or laughing.
🙁🙁🙁🙁🙁🙁🙁🙁🙁
I have already seen a couple of good reviews for this book by friends on this site, so maybe it is just me . I could continue with this by skimming to see if it gets any better but why bother when I have so many books at present that I want to read.
****I upped my rating to two stars as to be fair, the writing is fine and I don't think it is a terrible book. I really think that the problems is: I am just not enamored at all by either of the MC's.****
December 1, 2018
**ARC provided in exchange for an honest review**
"The terror and exhilaration of jumping out of a plane at fourteen thousand feet had nothing on the pure adrenaline-fueled high of finally finding a woman like Rita Hartley."
Across the Horizon is the first contemporary romance I rated 5 stars this year. It really isn't easy to make me rate a book 5 stars, without it having some kind of twist or angst. It was a straight to the point romance story without all the bells and whistles, and honestly it really didn't need all of that. The characters really brought the story to life, and I fell completely in love with the main characters Tanner and Rita. Their personalities were beautiful and a great match. Tanner is fun and so sweet, but also very sexy. Rita is sassy and isn't afraid to put Tanner in his place. These two were hilarious and cute and I just loved it. There were also a couple of emotional scenes that broke my heart, and listening to Lana Del Rey songs in the background made me feel it even more.
"She was my brain's favorite subject, my subconscious' favorite obsession, and my heart's greatest torture."
I seriously didn't expect to love this book as much as I did. I was expecting just the same old contemporary romance, that I had read a hundred times already. But the way the story and characters developed was perfection. I also want to thank to author for also focusing on the characters growing as an individual. Giving them time and space to find themselves again. Nothing felt rushed or forced and it was just beautiful. I can't praise this book enough. I honestly wouldn't change one thing about this book, except that it was longer because I couldn't get enough. This is the 12th book I read by this author and definitely one of my favorites. I highly recommend this book to any romance reader out there.
"The terror and exhilaration of jumping out of a plane at fourteen thousand feet had nothing on the pure adrenaline-fueled high of finally finding a woman like Rita Hartley."
Across the Horizon is the first contemporary romance I rated 5 stars this year. It really isn't easy to make me rate a book 5 stars, without it having some kind of twist or angst. It was a straight to the point romance story without all the bells and whistles, and honestly it really didn't need all of that. The characters really brought the story to life, and I fell completely in love with the main characters Tanner and Rita. Their personalities were beautiful and a great match. Tanner is fun and so sweet, but also very sexy. Rita is sassy and isn't afraid to put Tanner in his place. These two were hilarious and cute and I just loved it. There were also a couple of emotional scenes that broke my heart, and listening to Lana Del Rey songs in the background made me feel it even more.
"She was my brain's favorite subject, my subconscious' favorite obsession, and my heart's greatest torture."
I seriously didn't expect to love this book as much as I did. I was expecting just the same old contemporary romance, that I had read a hundred times already. But the way the story and characters developed was perfection. I also want to thank to author for also focusing on the characters growing as an individual. Giving them time and space to find themselves again. Nothing felt rushed or forced and it was just beautiful. I can't praise this book enough. I honestly wouldn't change one thing about this book, except that it was longer because I couldn't get enough. This is the 12th book I read by this author and definitely one of my favorites. I highly recommend this book to any romance reader out there.
December 4, 2018
4.25 stars.
I always love getting an Aly Martinez book in my kindle. And this time it was even more excitement because it was Tanner's book and I had wanted to read his story for the longest time. Across the Horizon had everything I look for in a book by Aly. Great banter, angst, an amazing story and phenomenal characters.
Tanner and Rita were two of my favorite characters ever written. I rooted for them till the end. This is how a couple who's completely opposite complement each other in the best way. I love how strong they are in their own way and how much Tanner loves his family and would do anything for them.
Although this is written around the same time as Porter & Charlotte's story this can definitely be read as a standalone. The author does an amazing job keeping the spoilers to as little as possible. Overall, I highly recommend this.
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"Sometimes fate brings you to a place in life for a reason. It's not up to you to figure out what that reason is, it's only up to you to decide what you're going to make of it."
I always love getting an Aly Martinez book in my kindle. And this time it was even more excitement because it was Tanner's book and I had wanted to read his story for the longest time. Across the Horizon had everything I look for in a book by Aly. Great banter, angst, an amazing story and phenomenal characters.
Life was all about the little things. And, in just one night, it made me realize that Rita was one of life's big things.
Tanner and Rita were two of my favorite characters ever written. I rooted for them till the end. This is how a couple who's completely opposite complement each other in the best way. I love how strong they are in their own way and how much Tanner loves his family and would do anything for them.
Although this is written around the same time as Porter & Charlotte's story this can definitely be read as a standalone. The author does an amazing job keeping the spoilers to as little as possible. Overall, I highly recommend this.
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December 7, 2018
REVIEW: 5 STARS
"Life isn't fair. It's cruel and calculating. But it is real."
Aly Martinez never fails to amaze me. Never. I'm putting that out there as my disclaimer because as critical as I can try to be about her books, it will still come across as an "Ode to Aly's Writing by Bee". HAHAHA!! Just kidding. It's not an ode because I'm not creative enough to come up with something that cool....unlike Tanner, but it'll be full of love, nevertheless. Regardless, this book is an easy recommendation for me. Easy.
So, a few readers have asked me if they can read this without reading The Darkest Sunrise Duet and while I can easily say YES, because she spoiled exactly NOTHING for that duet, the question begs to be asked: Why wouldn't you? Her writing is flawless!!! Absolutely flawless. I was so set on enjoying this book, and reading it for the story she was giving me, that I finished it in one sitting (which I hate doing with hers because they end too quickly...) I barely even highlighted anything or made notes while I read the book which is so unlike me. But what a good story to settle into. Absolutely worthy.
I seriously laughed so hard in the beginning of this book. Like, had to put the book down, wipe my eyes crying-laughing at this book. However, I have decided I would like to try Crème de la fru fru made by Tanner, because hello? Chef. Famous chef. Like, knows his ish, famous chef. Oh, and he's hot. But Tanner and Rita were quite amusing - nothing short of comical, actually. I can assure you that you'll be smiling while reading this one. I laughed throughout the entire book. Their banter was on another level, and it just made the book that much more for me. Not many can pull off sexy with a huge helping of humor. <-- "The alliteration in that sentence made my head hurt." (I seriously laugh...and die. You'll see.)
Was their story easy? NO. Not even a little bit, and the reasons and the pain behind their drama was so real. So true. But the fact that you have this man that is ALL sorts of man, but has a heart of pure gold, is alpha and possessive, but giving and sweet? He has to be one of my favorite Heroes from Aly. (I don't know how much of a lie that really is because she always makes me fall in love with her Heroes.) He saw everything he needed to see and when I read a man that is that intuitive, it just makes me smile that much more because there are really men out there like that and Aly seems to give them life in her words; effortlessly.
"You can't be afraid of falling back down or you'll never reach the top."
She gives a full story....a well rounded, well thought out, storyline full of affection, and pain. Full of smartassery and seriousness. I love that she can tell a story that gives me everything I ever need in a story. Her words flow uninhibited, her story doesn't have any holes, and her characters are genuinely likeable!! I cannot complain about anything she has ever written, and I don't intend to start now. I just love the way she writes a love that is more than fate. More than required to continue on. More than anything in the entire world. I love her love stories.
That epilogue was all sorts of smile inducing. Ridiculous yet hilarious, but so worth every single smile Aly elicited from me. But, their story couldn't have ended any other way. There was so much meaning....and it was all in the little things. I really liked how she was able to not only have her characters 'learn their lesson', but she also put a few things into perspective - and as the reader, it made the story that much more endearing. It's a sigh worthy ending, and I hope you love it just as much as I did.
"She was my brain's favorite subject, my subconscious's favorite obsession, and my heart's greatest torture."
~BEE
AMAZON AA LINK: https://amzn.to/2QHAKkv
ENTER HERE TO WIN AN ECOPY: http://bit.ly/2zHmKxx
"Life isn't fair. It's cruel and calculating. But it is real."
Aly Martinez never fails to amaze me. Never. I'm putting that out there as my disclaimer because as critical as I can try to be about her books, it will still come across as an "Ode to Aly's Writing by Bee". HAHAHA!! Just kidding. It's not an ode because I'm not creative enough to come up with something that cool....unlike Tanner, but it'll be full of love, nevertheless. Regardless, this book is an easy recommendation for me. Easy.
So, a few readers have asked me if they can read this without reading The Darkest Sunrise Duet and while I can easily say YES, because she spoiled exactly NOTHING for that duet, the question begs to be asked: Why wouldn't you? Her writing is flawless!!! Absolutely flawless. I was so set on enjoying this book, and reading it for the story she was giving me, that I finished it in one sitting (which I hate doing with hers because they end too quickly...) I barely even highlighted anything or made notes while I read the book which is so unlike me. But what a good story to settle into. Absolutely worthy.
I seriously laughed so hard in the beginning of this book. Like, had to put the book down, wipe my eyes crying-laughing at this book. However, I have decided I would like to try Crème de la fru fru made by Tanner, because hello? Chef. Famous chef. Like, knows his ish, famous chef. Oh, and he's hot. But Tanner and Rita were quite amusing - nothing short of comical, actually. I can assure you that you'll be smiling while reading this one. I laughed throughout the entire book. Their banter was on another level, and it just made the book that much more for me. Not many can pull off sexy with a huge helping of humor. <-- "The alliteration in that sentence made my head hurt." (I seriously laugh...and die. You'll see.)
Was their story easy? NO. Not even a little bit, and the reasons and the pain behind their drama was so real. So true. But the fact that you have this man that is ALL sorts of man, but has a heart of pure gold, is alpha and possessive, but giving and sweet? He has to be one of my favorite Heroes from Aly. (I don't know how much of a lie that really is because she always makes me fall in love with her Heroes.) He saw everything he needed to see and when I read a man that is that intuitive, it just makes me smile that much more because there are really men out there like that and Aly seems to give them life in her words; effortlessly.
"You can't be afraid of falling back down or you'll never reach the top."
She gives a full story....a well rounded, well thought out, storyline full of affection, and pain. Full of smartassery and seriousness. I love that she can tell a story that gives me everything I ever need in a story. Her words flow uninhibited, her story doesn't have any holes, and her characters are genuinely likeable!! I cannot complain about anything she has ever written, and I don't intend to start now. I just love the way she writes a love that is more than fate. More than required to continue on. More than anything in the entire world. I love her love stories.
That epilogue was all sorts of smile inducing. Ridiculous yet hilarious, but so worth every single smile Aly elicited from me. But, their story couldn't have ended any other way. There was so much meaning....and it was all in the little things. I really liked how she was able to not only have her characters 'learn their lesson', but she also put a few things into perspective - and as the reader, it made the story that much more endearing. It's a sigh worthy ending, and I hope you love it just as much as I did.
"She was my brain's favorite subject, my subconscious's favorite obsession, and my heart's greatest torture."
~BEE
AMAZON AA LINK: https://amzn.to/2QHAKkv
ENTER HERE TO WIN AN ECOPY: http://bit.ly/2zHmKxx
December 6, 2018
3,5-4 stars
3,5-4 stars
This was a sweet story with the great amount of angst.Tanner and Rita was great together. I like their flirty and funny moments together . Tanner is a swoon worthy hero and Rita is a great heroine! I loved most of the story I just didn't feel the same love I felt with most of Aly's characters. Still it was a nice book to read
3,5-4 stars
This was a sweet story with the great amount of angst.Tanner and Rita was great together. I like their flirty and funny moments together . Tanner is a swoon worthy hero and Rita is a great heroine! I loved most of the story I just didn't feel the same love I felt with most of Aly's characters. Still it was a nice book to read
December 7, 2018
4.5 stars
My gosh, my heart is jumping for joy. This book was perfection. Rita and Tanner are the sweetest, most romantic couple and I adored their relationship from the get-go. Yes they met at the most inopportune time and Tanner knew nothing about going slow but by god they made it work. I had a smile on my face THE.ENTIRE.TIME. The banter, the sweetness and the sexy times was just something I needed. Normally an author with rather heavy reads, this book was a lighter, sweeter read.
My gosh, my heart is jumping for joy. This book was perfection. Rita and Tanner are the sweetest, most romantic couple and I adored their relationship from the get-go. Yes they met at the most inopportune time and Tanner knew nothing about going slow but by god they made it work. I had a smile on my face THE.ENTIRE.TIME. The banter, the sweetness and the sexy times was just something I needed. Normally an author with rather heavy reads, this book was a lighter, sweeter read.
December 16, 2018
Across the Horizon is such a witty treat that I kept forgetting it was written by Aly Martinez, a.k.a. the Dame of Doom, Sovereign of Suspense, and Matriarch of Mystery and Misery.
Celebrity chef Tanner has major trust issues and Rita’s marriage just imploded. You could safely say they are each a hot mess and the timing for a new romance is imperfect at best. However, they are so very good together. Wicked chemistry aside, Tanner just gets her—her fears and her quirks. Rita, in turn, sees beyond his pretty face, million dollar abs, and celebrity status to the generous and vulnerable man he really is. I adored Rita’s sarcasm and Tanner’s playful spirit. The continual banter between them is fantastic.
Tanner is a self-proclaimed mama’s boy, and I also enjoyed his close relationship with her. She is hilarious in her own right. Charlotte and Porter from the Darkest Sunset duet are in this story as supporting characters. It was lovely to see them through a different lens without spoiling the plot of that exquisite and angst-filled duet (see the first sentence of this review).
This story made my heart happy, and my cheeks hurt from smiling my way through the epilogue.
Recommended for fans of:
Witty Banter
Food Network
American Ninja Warrior
Tuna Casserole
Celebrity chef Tanner has major trust issues and Rita’s marriage just imploded. You could safely say they are each a hot mess and the timing for a new romance is imperfect at best. However, they are so very good together. Wicked chemistry aside, Tanner just gets her—her fears and her quirks. Rita, in turn, sees beyond his pretty face, million dollar abs, and celebrity status to the generous and vulnerable man he really is. I adored Rita’s sarcasm and Tanner’s playful spirit. The continual banter between them is fantastic.
Tanner is a self-proclaimed mama’s boy, and I also enjoyed his close relationship with her. She is hilarious in her own right. Charlotte and Porter from the Darkest Sunset duet are in this story as supporting characters. It was lovely to see them through a different lens without spoiling the plot of that exquisite and angst-filled duet (see the first sentence of this review).
This story made my heart happy, and my cheeks hurt from smiling my way through the epilogue.
Recommended for fans of:
Witty Banter
Food Network
American Ninja Warrior
Tuna Casserole
December 6, 2018
“Sometimes fate brings you to a place in life for a reason. It’s not up to you to figure out what that reason is. It’s only up to you to decide what you’re going to make of it.”
4 stars
Another great read from Aly Martinez! A romantic comedy with lots of heart, and a hilariously charming hero that you cannot help but completely fall for!
Tanner and Rita’s love story originally played out in the background of The Darkest Sunrise Duet (Tanner is Porter’s brother, Rita is Charlotte’s best friend). To be honest, when I first heard that Aly was writing a book for them, I didn’t actually think their story needed to be told since we’d already seen them together, but I love Tanner, and it’s Aly Martinez, there’s no way I was not going to read this one, and I loved what she did with this story! She’s written it in a way that although it connects with the duet, it can be read as a complete standalone and it doesn’t give away any spoilers for the original story. It’s really cleverly done, so you can read this on its own, and if you have already read the duet, this will be a great bonus!
Tanner Reese is a celebrity chef with two restaurants that he owns with his brother, and his own TV show where he is forced to go shirtless for at least part of it so that he can show of his abs to his admiring fans. He doesn’t love that part of his job, but it’s created his fortune and made him a household name – though that also isn’t always a great thing as women only seem to want him for either the notoriety or what he can buy for them. He’s jaded, and yearning for something real.
Rita has just discovered that her husband has been having an affair. She’s hurt and angry and in the beginning stages of what could be a messy divorce seeing as though her husband wants her back, and they work together, and his affair was with a colleague. Ouch! So when her husband approaches her at a work function demanding a second chance, what’s a girl to do to but throw herself at the nearest available man and pretend that she’s already moved on.
Tanner and Rita���s first meeting is one of those moments that has romance book lovers like me squeeing with delight at the fun and intensity of it all. Tanner is all over playing his part as the besotted lover, but both of them are taken back by the very real spark of attraction between them. And when their scene is over, Tanner has no intention of letting Rita go – though the timing couldn’t be worse for her.
There’s something awesome about a man who openly and eagerly pursues the woman of his dreams. Tanner has never fallen for a woman like he does for Rita, it doesn’t matter how fast it is, he knows his heart, and he knows that she is his. His determination to be with her is sweet, heartfelt and so much fun, and every text, phone call, and moment with them together is full of fantastic flirting and banter. I laughed out loud at the witty back-and-forth between them and I loved their playfulness.
But it’s Tanner’s openness that I love the most, the man wears his heart on his sleeve and the way he puts himself out there for Rita is just gorgeous!
But Rita’s life is so complicated. She knows she’s not ready for all that Tanner is offering, but she can’t resist him, and who could blame her? But she finds herself falling hard and fast, even though she knows she has a mountain of issues to overcome.
Tanner and Rita both have soul searching to do, and it’s a beautiful, functional ride as they figure it all out. I thought the way they handled everything was sensible, I love how honest they are with each other throughout, and the way it all plays out brings a nice amount of emotion to the story. It all leads to a beautiful ending with a fantastic epilogue, and I finished the book with a big grin on my face.
This is such a gorgeous read! Funny and emotional with some profound messages and a gorgeous love story, I loved it!
4 stars!
An Advanced Review Copy was generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
4 stars
Another great read from Aly Martinez! A romantic comedy with lots of heart, and a hilariously charming hero that you cannot help but completely fall for!
Tanner and Rita’s love story originally played out in the background of The Darkest Sunrise Duet (Tanner is Porter’s brother, Rita is Charlotte’s best friend). To be honest, when I first heard that Aly was writing a book for them, I didn’t actually think their story needed to be told since we’d already seen them together, but I love Tanner, and it’s Aly Martinez, there’s no way I was not going to read this one, and I loved what she did with this story! She’s written it in a way that although it connects with the duet, it can be read as a complete standalone and it doesn’t give away any spoilers for the original story. It’s really cleverly done, so you can read this on its own, and if you have already read the duet, this will be a great bonus!
Tanner Reese is a celebrity chef with two restaurants that he owns with his brother, and his own TV show where he is forced to go shirtless for at least part of it so that he can show of his abs to his admiring fans. He doesn’t love that part of his job, but it’s created his fortune and made him a household name – though that also isn’t always a great thing as women only seem to want him for either the notoriety or what he can buy for them. He’s jaded, and yearning for something real.
Rita has just discovered that her husband has been having an affair. She’s hurt and angry and in the beginning stages of what could be a messy divorce seeing as though her husband wants her back, and they work together, and his affair was with a colleague. Ouch! So when her husband approaches her at a work function demanding a second chance, what’s a girl to do to but throw herself at the nearest available man and pretend that she’s already moved on.
“Are you married?”
“Not that I know of.”
Her nose scrunched adorably. “Fiancee? Girlfriend? Friends with benefits?”
My gaze fell to her plump lips. “You offering or asking?”
Tanner and Rita���s first meeting is one of those moments that has romance book lovers like me squeeing with delight at the fun and intensity of it all. Tanner is all over playing his part as the besotted lover, but both of them are taken back by the very real spark of attraction between them. And when their scene is over, Tanner has no intention of letting Rita go – though the timing couldn’t be worse for her.
“I’m not ready to date yet,” I confessed.
“Don’t say that,” he grumbled. “Come on, Rita. There’s something here. I know you feel it … Maybe it’s nothing and it will all fizzle over the next few weeks. But dammit, I want to try.”
There’s something awesome about a man who openly and eagerly pursues the woman of his dreams. Tanner has never fallen for a woman like he does for Rita, it doesn’t matter how fast it is, he knows his heart, and he knows that she is his. His determination to be with her is sweet, heartfelt and so much fun, and every text, phone call, and moment with them together is full of fantastic flirting and banter. I laughed out loud at the witty back-and-forth between them and I loved their playfulness.
“Are you ever a dick?” I asked.
His eyebrows furrowed. “I…um, I’m pretty sure it happens on occasion. Why?”
“Because it’s going to be really annoying if you’re this great all the time. I’m warning you. I’ve been known to get a tad bitchy sometimes, and it’s going to be no fun at all to take it out on you if you always say the right thing.”
A Tanner Reese masterpiece split his mouth. “I will definitely keep that in mind and do everything I can to step up my dick game.” He paused, twisting his lips. “Wow, that did not come out right at all.”
But it’s Tanner’s openness that I love the most, the man wears his heart on his sleeve and the way he puts himself out there for Rita is just gorgeous!
“She’s the right woman … I feel it in my bones every time she looks at me. But the timing? It’s like fate’s cruel joke. She’s got so much to deal with over the next few months. Hell, I do too. But I don’t want to let her go.”
But Rita’s life is so complicated. She knows she’s not ready for all that Tanner is offering, but she can’t resist him, and who could blame her? But she finds herself falling hard and fast, even though she knows she has a mountain of issues to overcome.
What I wouldn’t have given to be free to fall in love with this man. He was pretty perfect for me.
But right then, I was not perfect for him.
Maybe one day though.
And maybe, if I was really lucky, I wouldn’t ruin us both trying to get there.
Tanner and Rita both have soul searching to do, and it’s a beautiful, functional ride as they figure it all out. I thought the way they handled everything was sensible, I love how honest they are with each other throughout, and the way it all plays out brings a nice amount of emotion to the story. It all leads to a beautiful ending with a fantastic epilogue, and I finished the book with a big grin on my face.
This is such a gorgeous read! Funny and emotional with some profound messages and a gorgeous love story, I loved it!
4 stars!
An Advanced Review Copy was generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
December 7, 2018
DNF Chapter 8
Didn't like the Heroine when she threw herself at the Hero and tried to convince her "ex"-husband that they spend "unforgettable" nights together. It was cheesy, unconvincing and immature. Couldn't believe the "ex"-husband fell for that.
Didn't like the Hero. He seemed very immature. He couldn't even be on time for an event that was really, really important for his brother. Said brother needed a doctor to look at his sick son, because said doctor was the last hope. And instead of being on time and supporting his brother (and his sick nephew) he tells his brother (as a joke) that he wont be there. And when he gets there he's late.
This isn't funny. It's not clever. I found it disrespectful. Lost all my interest in him.
Oh and he hadn't had anything with a women in 8 weeks. Wow, give him a medal! I'm so over it.
Didn't like the Heroine when she threw herself at the Hero and tried to convince her "ex"-husband that they spend "unforgettable" nights together. It was cheesy, unconvincing and immature. Couldn't believe the "ex"-husband fell for that.
Didn't like the Hero. He seemed very immature. He couldn't even be on time for an event that was really, really important for his brother. Said brother needed a doctor to look at his sick son, because said doctor was the last hope. And instead of being on time and supporting his brother (and his sick nephew) he tells his brother (as a joke) that he wont be there. And when he gets there he's late.
This isn't funny. It's not clever. I found it disrespectful. Lost all my interest in him.
Oh and he hadn't had anything with a women in 8 weeks. Wow, give him a medal! I'm so over it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 6, 2018
Full review can be found HERE --> https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
*ARC provided for a voluntary honest review.* ~Sonal
*ARC provided for a voluntary honest review.* ~Sonal
December 18, 2018
3,5⭐ Sweet, sexy and funny. I Liked it!
December 7, 2018
★3 - 3.5 STARS★
Rita Hartley is picking herself up after dumping her cheating scumbag of a husband. In a moment of unashamed desperation she quite literally clings to stranger Tanner Reese in a wild hair moment of rubbing him in her ex’s face.
Tanner, a TV chef who has no shortage of women throwing themselves at his feet. He’s happy to play along with Rita’s pretence because a: she’s stunning and b: he can see right away her ex is a schmuck.
The role play extends beyond the scene they put on her ex and there’s no shortage of banter and laughter between. Common sense tells her it’s too soon to move on, but she can’t ignore the things Tanner makes her feel. I myself was swept along with their relationship and I happily told said common sense to take a hike.
As much as I enjoyed it, it read like a book of two halves. On one hand there were times the banter and chemistry were dynamite, and others where it felt slightly cheesy. Admittedly I found skimming towards the end, but I poured happily over the satisfyingly sweet epilogue.
November 1, 2019
4.5 'We suck at slow' Stars!
Another winner from Aly Martinez! Actually I think this is related to her Darkest Sunrise duet but I can assure you it can be read as a standalone (though now I definetely want to read Porter and Charlotte's story!). I loved Tanner and Rita so much, they are so very different but they worked so well together. I loved all the emotions and the chemistry between this couple and I cannot wait to read more from this author. I am loving Aly's writing and characters and I am ready for more!
Another winner from Aly Martinez! Actually I think this is related to her Darkest Sunrise duet but I can assure you it can be read as a standalone (though now I definetely want to read Porter and Charlotte's story!). I loved Tanner and Rita so much, they are so very different but they worked so well together. I loved all the emotions and the chemistry between this couple and I cannot wait to read more from this author. I am loving Aly's writing and characters and I am ready for more!
December 6, 2018
Find this review and others at Carlene Inspired.
Across the Horizon is a hot contemporary romance with a bit of humor from Aly Martinez, author of several of my favorite romance novels. Featuring a handsome chef and a beautiful divorcee, neither seeking a relationship by the way, Across the Horizon follows the fast paced love that blossoms between two people who aren't even looking for it. Tanner Reese is famous for his abs that feature prominently on his popular cooking show, what he really wants to be doing though is cooking. Rita is just recognizing her ex had shaped her into a trophy wife; she doesn't know what she's going to do next, but she knows she won't be standing beside her cheating husband. Caught off-guard by her husband's mistress, Rita grabs the first man she sees to prove she's moving on just fine. The two have instant chemistry, furthered by Rita's inability to recognize him at first and Tanner's willingness to play the part of a new lover. A chance for simple, no-strings attached romance pulls the two together and soon love is on the table, but each has complications that could ruin their chance at simple happiness.
Oh my word, this book was sweet, sexy, and surprisingly realistic. Both Tanner and Rita are compassionate individuals with personal life problems that any reader can relate to. The romance they strike up unassuming, much of their time spent together is spent sharing, giving each other the most honest version of themselves. Of course, there'd be no romance between the two if there wasn't drama and the two have plenty of it. Rita's ex-husband doesn't want to let her go, Tanner has an ex-girlfriend desperate for recognition, and both have trust issues they don't know how to recover from. The two are easy to love though and readers will find themselves rooting for the easy relationship that brings them so much happiness. Tanner was the most swoon-worthy hero, he fights for the girl regardless of what is thrown at them, proving the ladies man really has been holding out for the one. Rita is like all of us, a scorned lover who can't escape the past, but Tanner whittles away at her armor and as the book progresses further we get to know her on a deeper level.
Across the Horizon does feature characters from Aly Martinez' duet The Darkest Sunrise, but can easily be read as a standalone. It's a classic contemporary romance with heaping spoonful of sweet love, smutty passion, and just the right amount of angsty drama. It was an entertaining read that had me laughing and swooning from beginning to end.
ARC provided.
Across the Horizon is a hot contemporary romance with a bit of humor from Aly Martinez, author of several of my favorite romance novels. Featuring a handsome chef and a beautiful divorcee, neither seeking a relationship by the way, Across the Horizon follows the fast paced love that blossoms between two people who aren't even looking for it. Tanner Reese is famous for his abs that feature prominently on his popular cooking show, what he really wants to be doing though is cooking. Rita is just recognizing her ex had shaped her into a trophy wife; she doesn't know what she's going to do next, but she knows she won't be standing beside her cheating husband. Caught off-guard by her husband's mistress, Rita grabs the first man she sees to prove she's moving on just fine. The two have instant chemistry, furthered by Rita's inability to recognize him at first and Tanner's willingness to play the part of a new lover. A chance for simple, no-strings attached romance pulls the two together and soon love is on the table, but each has complications that could ruin their chance at simple happiness.
Oh my word, this book was sweet, sexy, and surprisingly realistic. Both Tanner and Rita are compassionate individuals with personal life problems that any reader can relate to. The romance they strike up unassuming, much of their time spent together is spent sharing, giving each other the most honest version of themselves. Of course, there'd be no romance between the two if there wasn't drama and the two have plenty of it. Rita's ex-husband doesn't want to let her go, Tanner has an ex-girlfriend desperate for recognition, and both have trust issues they don't know how to recover from. The two are easy to love though and readers will find themselves rooting for the easy relationship that brings them so much happiness. Tanner was the most swoon-worthy hero, he fights for the girl regardless of what is thrown at them, proving the ladies man really has been holding out for the one. Rita is like all of us, a scorned lover who can't escape the past, but Tanner whittles away at her armor and as the book progresses further we get to know her on a deeper level.
Across the Horizon does feature characters from Aly Martinez' duet The Darkest Sunrise, but can easily be read as a standalone. It's a classic contemporary romance with heaping spoonful of sweet love, smutty passion, and just the right amount of angsty drama. It was an entertaining read that had me laughing and swooning from beginning to end.
ARC provided.
March 15, 2019
Have you ever been reading or even watching a show and you notice yourself smiling to yourself? I did that quite a few times while reading this book. I also busted out laughing a few times too. This book starts with a bang. I was expecting, after the beginning, a completely different storyline from what was delivered. So when I got this charming and hilarious dialogue between the main characters I was ecstatic. Buy the book you will love it.
April 13, 2019
Even though Rita annoyed the shit out of me towards the end, its 5 for my baby Tanner. Omg my new book boyfriend; no scrap that- my husband. Still though, this girl pissed me off so much- went back and forth between 4/5 but Tanner and his charm/humour won in the end.
Please read this if you want a funny, sweet and just an all round happy and joyful reading experience. One of my fav romantic comedies I've read in recent times. And I'm off now to find my Tanner now- Im just hoping to god he's resurrected in the real world, because lets face it ladies- this world needs more Tanners.
Please read this if you want a funny, sweet and just an all round happy and joyful reading experience. One of my fav romantic comedies I've read in recent times. And I'm off now to find my Tanner now- Im just hoping to god he's resurrected in the real world, because lets face it ladies- this world needs more Tanners.
December 9, 2018
‘…with my heart in my throat and tears streaming down my face, I walked away.’
We absolutely love Aly Martinez’s writing style and her stories always keep us reading as the romance slowly builds and we fall in love just as the characters do. There’s something very special about her characters that takes us back to the books we fell in love with years ago. And if you too are a huge fan of old school Kristen Ashley you’ll know what we mean. Across the Horizon elicited those same feelings and we loved it. This book is an addictive, sexy and angsty read.
“Sometimes fate brings you to a place in life for a reason. It’s not up to you to figure out what that reason is. It’s only up to you to decide what you’re going to make of it.”
Across the Horizon is a second chance love story for Tanner and Rita who’ve both been victims of deception, heartbreak and internal struggles in their lives, albeit taking different shapes. Neither is where they want to be but both trying their best to find their happy and live their best life. The life they really want to live together, but first they must put their own individual struggles to bed before they can join each other there ….pun intended!
‘She wasn’t ready for what I wanted from her. But I’d wait. For Rita…I. Would. Wait.’
When we read a book there almost always comes a point in the story where the scales move to become more weighted to one character. For us, that was Tanner in this case which somewhat seemed at odds with the storyline which was mostly centred round Rita. We remember Tanner fondly from The Darkest Sunrise and The Brightest Sunset duet which was his brother, Porter’s story.
Tanner is a highly acclaimed TV celebrity chef known for his cheeky smile and those chiselled abs. Think naked chef. We loved him and we loved how much he loved Rita. He was funny, cheeky and so wonderful with that attractive vulnerability which we always fall for. His voice was so strong in this story and we fell hook line and sinker.
‘If I’d had seven years, you can bet your ass she would not be sitting in another man’s car in my driveway. She’d be in my arms. In my fucking hammock. Laughing and smiling up at me while I frantically thought of ways to keep that smile aimed at me for another fucking seven years. Fuck this guy.’
Rita’s marriage falls victim to that dreaded seven year itch when she catches her hubby having an affair. Whilst she’s in for a tough ride emotionally as well as facing an identity crisis, she has a silver lining which fate throws at her when she needs it most. Turning to Tanner, whom she meets under stressful circumstances, eases the path but she’s conscious of losing herself in the process. We really liked Rita and understood her worries. Having never had a safety net growing up made her grab it when offered. Also, when trust is broken it’s hard to relearn.
‘Together, we’d rule the world. Or at the very least, sit on the couch, holding hands and laughing as it burned down around us.’
Whilst we connected with both Tanner and Rita we would’ve loved more detailed background in order to truly feel emotionally connected to their present and that intense love they felt for one another. This also had an impact on trying up all the loose ends as the mood of the story is quite morose and chock full of that much loved angst. To experience rather than just being told adds so much weight to the story and its words. We have to applaud Aly Martinez for the brilliant job of not spoiling her previous duet which runs in the same timeline. We laughed and swooned as we enjoyed this emotional and angsty second chance romance.
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December 8, 2018
“𝘐 𝘸𝘢𝘯𝘵𝘦𝘥 𝘢𝘴 𝘮𝘶𝘤𝘩 𝘰𝘧 𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘢𝘴 𝘐 𝘤𝘰𝘶𝘭𝘥 𝘱𝘰𝘴𝘴𝘪𝘣𝘭𝘺 𝘨𝘦𝘵. 𝘉𝘶𝘵 𝘯𝘰𝘵 𝘢𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘳𝘪𝘴𝘬 𝘰𝘧 𝘭𝘰𝘴𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘩𝘦𝘳. 𝘚𝘩𝘦 𝘸𝘢𝘴𝘯’𝘵 𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘥𝘺 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘸𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘐 𝘸𝘢𝘯𝘵𝘦𝘥 𝘧𝘳𝘰𝘮 𝘩𝘦𝘳. 𝘉𝘶𝘵 𝘐’𝘥 𝘸𝘢𝘪𝘵.”
A sexy and sweet love story laced with passion, angst, and emotion! In typical Aly Martinez fashion, she reels you in with excellent writing, unforgettable characters, and an addicting storyline that will stay with you long after the last page has turned. With quite the memorable and steamy meet cute, Rita and Tanner will steal your heart from the very beginning! I laughed. I cried. I never wanted it to end and I just know that you will end up feeling the same exact way. 𝐀𝐜𝐫𝐨𝐬𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐇𝐨𝐫𝐢𝐳𝐨𝐧 is another romance that can be added to the never ending MUST READ ROMANCES in Ms. Martinez’s arsenal of greatness.
A sexy and sweet love story laced with passion, angst, and emotion! In typical Aly Martinez fashion, she reels you in with excellent writing, unforgettable characters, and an addicting storyline that will stay with you long after the last page has turned. With quite the memorable and steamy meet cute, Rita and Tanner will steal your heart from the very beginning! I laughed. I cried. I never wanted it to end and I just know that you will end up feeling the same exact way. 𝐀𝐜𝐫𝐨𝐬𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐇𝐨𝐫𝐢𝐳𝐨𝐧 is another romance that can be added to the never ending MUST READ ROMANCES in Ms. Martinez’s arsenal of greatness.
January 8, 2019
What isn’t to love about Across the Horizon? Nothing. The characters, especially Tanner, stole me heart, and I adored the relationship between Rita and Tanner.
Tanner is that lovable rascal, charming and sexy, and Rita is a woman down on her Luck after her husband did her dirty. Her reaction, though, and her dedication to finding herself will endear readers to her character. Similar to Rita, Tanner is also lost.
What I loved most about their story line, though, is that they don’t find each themselves in their romance. They find themselves alone, as they recognize you can’t be in a healthy relationship if you are lost, and I absolutely love this component of the story.
Once again, Alt Martinez gives us a must read!
ARC received in exchange for an honest review
Tanner is that lovable rascal, charming and sexy, and Rita is a woman down on her Luck after her husband did her dirty. Her reaction, though, and her dedication to finding herself will endear readers to her character. Similar to Rita, Tanner is also lost.
What I loved most about their story line, though, is that they don’t find each themselves in their romance. They find themselves alone, as they recognize you can’t be in a healthy relationship if you are lost, and I absolutely love this component of the story.
Once again, Alt Martinez gives us a must read!
ARC received in exchange for an honest review
December 6, 2018
Ahhhhhhhh! This was soooo fun! I loved this story from the very beginning. Rita and Tanner are a match made in well, desperation honestly. In a moment of weakness Rita accost Tanner Reese at a fundraising event where her cheating husband's mistress drops the most horrendous of bombs on her. What else is a woman to do but literally throw herself at the hottest man in the vicinity? And it just gets sweeter from there. So much I adored about this story. The way they met. The way Tanner couldn't let Rita get away. This story is a whirlwind where one named Rita meets two named Tanner Reese and although their differences should have spelled no, their chemistry and banter definitely spelled yes! As a huge Aly Martinez fan this was certainly a different feel from most of her stories that are layered with emotion and drama. And I loved it! It was just really feel good, root for the underdog (because she totally deserved it) keep a smile on your face while reading good time!
December 13, 2018
Aly Martinez has been a favorite author of mine for a long time now. I get all giddy when she releases a new book, so when came out, I immediately one clicked!
After reading The Darkest Sunrise duet and getting a peek at Tanner Reese, I’ve been salivating for this hot celebrity chef’s story! Those abs, that dimpled smile, those blue eyes, and that tousled hair... #dead
{If you haven’t read the duet, don’t worry—this is a stand-alone, spinoff with no spoilers!}
Tanner—I wanna keep him for myself!! He’s sweet, caring, and beautiful inside and out. Rita has been through hell and back, but she’s one tough cookie. Together, they begin to overcome their issues and move toward their happily ever after.
Tanner + Rita are perfection together. There are laugh-out-loud moments, swoony moments, and super-hot sexy times. A sprinkle of angst creates a romance feast for the reader. Across the Horizon is the perfect read for all hearts-and-flowers romance fans!!
“Sometimes fate brings you to a place in life for a reason. It’s not up to you to figure out what a reason is. It’s only up to you to decide what you’re going to make of it.”
After reading The Darkest Sunrise duet and getting a peek at Tanner Reese, I’ve been salivating for this hot celebrity chef’s story! Those abs, that dimpled smile, those blue eyes, and that tousled hair... #dead
{If you haven’t read the duet, don’t worry—this is a stand-alone, spinoff with no spoilers!}
Tanner—I wanna keep him for myself!! He’s sweet, caring, and beautiful inside and out. Rita has been through hell and back, but she’s one tough cookie. Together, they begin to overcome their issues and move toward their happily ever after.
Tanner + Rita are perfection together. There are laugh-out-loud moments, swoony moments, and super-hot sexy times. A sprinkle of angst creates a romance feast for the reader. Across the Horizon is the perfect read for all hearts-and-flowers romance fans!!
“Sometimes fate brings you to a place in life for a reason. It’s not up to you to figure out what a reason is. It’s only up to you to decide what you’re going to make of it.”
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