Blind Kiss by Renee Carlino

Aug 02, 2018 Christy rated it really liked it

Shelves: 2018-four-stars

4 stars!!!

I'm not sure if I've ever read a book so frustrating before. Seriously, this one messed me up. I finished it days ago and I don't know if I loved it or hated it. I have no idea how I felt about the story or the characters. Renee Carlino is one hell of a writer, though and she sure did make me feel. I felt so many emotions while reading this story. Not all of them were good, but they were all strong and powerful and that says a lot about this story! It's not very often that a story 4 stars!!!

I'm not sure if I've ever read a book so frustrating before. Seriously, this one messed me up. I finished it days ago and I don't know if I loved it or hated it. I have no idea how I felt about the story or the characters. Renee Carlino is one hell of a writer, though and she sure did make me feel. I felt so many emotions while reading this story. Not all of them were good, but they were all strong and powerful and that says a lot about this story! It's not very often that a story effects me this much.

Gavin and Penny meet in college after they were asked to participate in a psych study that posed the question, “Can you have sexual chemistry without knowing what the other person looks like?” When it came to the two of them, the answer was an astounding yes. They become fast friends after that blind kiss, but you can tell there is so much there, simmering just below the surface. During the college years of Penny and Gavin, it seemed like they never could get it together. That maybe friendship was all that would ever be between them.

I ran my fingers through his hair. It was intimate, but we were intimately close friends. He was truly my best friend, and there were a million reasons why he was—more.

Fast forward 14 years later and Penny and Gavin are still best friends. But their lives are still on totally different tracts. No matter how in-sync they may be, things were never easy for them. This story is told from the past and present and we get both Penny and Gavin's pov. It stressed me out. It was the timing. The timing was never right. And I loved to hate it and hated to love reading about these soulmates, these two people who couldn't be together, but couldn't be apart, and could never get their shit together at the same time.

I honestly spent days pondering on how to rate this book. There were moments I was sure I was going to rate it on the low side because I was so ragey. Then other moments I knew it had to be a 4 or 5 because the writing was THAT GOOD and it effected me so much. So a 4 it is. If you are a lover of angst, you need this book in your life. Period.

This couple has an undeniable connection and their friendship and love is beyond. When I was reading their story, all I could think of was this Beau Tapin quote:
One day, whether you are 14, 28, or 65, you will stumble upon someone who will start a fire in you that cannot die. However, the saddest, most awful truth you will ever come to find- is they are not always with whom we spend our lives.
It always makes me cry and this book had me in tears all the way through. I feel like is review is kind of all over the place, and I'm not really clear on if I'm recommending this book, but I AM. Renee Carlino is an amazing storyteller and this book is a journey. Some people might hate it, but I think most who read it will love it and appreciate it no matter how many times they wanted to throw their kindle ;)

A minute is forever. A kiss left on your lips to remember. I’m your lover, I’m your friend. You’re mine. You were always my lover . . . for a lifetime in my mind.
...more

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Jul 20, 2018 Jenny••Steamy Reads Blog•• rated it really liked it

Shelves: arc-to-review

***Now Available***

Gonna be straight up honest, this book took a year off my life. So be warned, you want angst, you want emotional frustration, crave the chase, seek lie after lie, and literally after years, and I mean years, you get what your heart has been dying for, then this is your book. My poor heart. My poor heart ached throughout this one

I’m gonna be vague, maybe a bit confusing but I don’t want to give too much away

We start off falling in love with a strong, independent woman, ...more

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Sep 13, 2018 jessica rated it it was amazing

this is, without a doubt, the most emotionally draining and painfully frustrating book i have ever read. but goodness me, i am so in awe of how a story could be so imperfectly perfect.

yes, the characters had their flaws, but neither of them were unlikable. they were real and honest and relatable. they were the type of characters that slowly grew on you - the type of characters who, by the end of the book, you would do anything for. i spent so much time whilst reading this just heartbroken that ...more

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Aug 26, 2018 KAS rated it really liked it

Talk about squirm in my seat angsty-ness!!

So, Me and Angst are bosom buddies! The more angst the better. A friend of mine told me if I liked angst, this one was for me, so of course, I pounced.

By chapter two, the heaviness in my chest started. I was on pins and needles wondering where this story would lead. My heart definitely knew which way I wanted the scenario to play out and the suspense was killing me.

And by darn, I was going to be steaming mad if I didn’t get MY outcome.

Okay, so I am goi ...more

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Aug 17, 2018 Jennifer Kyle rated it it was amazing

Shelves: favorites

“It’s been this way forever. I’ve always been your lover...for a lifetime in my mind.”

This a frustrating story yet I loved it even though so much pain and distance was self inflicted by the main characters. I was glued to every word and every scene. Well done what a ride!

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Jul 26, 2018 Angie - Angie's Dreamy Reads added it

4.5 Stars

THIS BOOK. THIS FREAKING BOOK. What a whirlwind! Wow! You’re either going to LOVE it or HATE it. These characters are infuriating, undeniably flawed and frustrating and addicting and compelling and beautiful. THE FEELS. I don't even know what to say, what to think, where to start, but it most definitely bears repeating: THIS IS A LOVE OR HATE IT TYPE OF READ. Penny and Gavin are intense. In fact, their chaotic story demands your attention. It screams for it, relentlessly pursues it, and 4.5 Stars

THIS BOOK. THIS FREAKING BOOK. What a whirlwind! Wow! You’re either going to LOVE it or HATE it. These characters are infuriating, undeniably flawed and frustrating and addicting and compelling and beautiful. THE FEELS. I don't even know what to say, what to think, where to start, but it most definitely bears repeating: THIS IS A LOVE OR HATE IT TYPE OF READ. Penny and Gavin are intense. In fact, their chaotic story demands your attention. It screams for it, relentlessly pursues it, and forces you to feel it whether you want to or not. It strips you, drives under your skin, into your bones, and I fucking loved it. I love being pissed, devastated, and everything in between. Those feelings of being ravaged and spit out by a book make for an intoxicating reading experience. I feel so much right now, I truly don't know where to start. Blind Kiss is an emotional free-fall, and I'm breathless!

Penny Pipper and Gavin Berninger are two best friends who meet in a study. Immediately, it's evident that they have an explosive chemistry and an intrinsic connection. As two compelling personalities, these characters have you eating out of the palm of their hands. Gavin’s a musician and a mechanic, a free spirited, quirky personality who gives you tingles, makes you swoon, but also drives you utterly crazy. Penny, a fierce and feisty dancer, ignites feelings just as strong with her stubborn ways and sometimes thoughtless actions. Blind Kiss drives from past and present, unveiling these characters to us in all their gritty glory. I was spellbound by the inner workings of Gavin and Penny's friendship and just couldn't get enough. This most certainly isn’t a picked fence type of read, it’s throw your Kindle worthy, and I have NO DOUBT that it’ll fire up some strong opinions in readers.

Intensely infuriating yet explosively romantic and breathtaking, this is story about two friends who make impulsive decisions that affect their friendship for years and years. It’s not an easy read, the timing is never right for these characters, but it's riveting. Riddled with twists and turns that have your heart stopping, Blind Kiss WRECKS YOU.

IT'S EXPLOSIVE.
ANGSTY.
COMPLICATED.
AND I LOVED IT.

I love a book that makes me shake with rage, that makes me want to scream at the characters, that makes me want to cry and pace my house, and ultimately close my eyes in relief and breathe deep when it’s all over and done. Renee Carlino delivers a messy, complicated tale of love that happens between two people who just AREN'T READY FOR IT. Gavin and Penny fight the attraction because their longing, their yearning, their aching for one another SCARES THEM (devastating you in the process).

Overall, I'm so so sooooooo into this story. I loved it’s unique, gritty, intense, and thought-provoking words. I’m so curious to see what others will think, because I know it's going to STIR PEOPLE UP, and I can’t wait for that. Books should test you! This one will. With Renee Carlino's exquisite writing and a set of characters that will have you shaking your head, I think Blind Kiss is a MUST READ. I absolutely loved it. ...more

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Aug 17, 2018 Patty ~ Wrapped Up In Reading Book Blog rated it it was amazing · review of another edition

Shelves: angsty-read, depressing, unbearable-angst, arcs, gutwrenching-and-torturous-read

*****4.5 STARS*****
{ARC Generously Provided by Author}

Penny and I still had a spark that couldn’t be snuffed out. All the plans I’d drawn for the life I thought we’d have together were playing out in some parallel universe. Even if I was stuck in this stupid version of us, where she was encouraging me to go out with other women, I knew there was a Penny and Gavin living as a couple out there, right along beside us.

Renee Carlino has a knack for writing some of the most angst-filled stories I’ve e ...more

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Jun 25, 2018 Malene rated it really liked it · review of another edition

Shelves: arc, angsty, friends-to-lovers

Talk about angst galore. My heart is beating overtime after finishing Blind Kiss. Holy moly I’m exhausted emotionally after have experienced Penny and Gavin’s story. Their story is one emotional roller coaster. My primary emotion while reading Blind Kiss was frustration. I was frustrated with Penny and Gavin. Frustrated by their choices and of course because their story didn’t went where I wanted it to go but that’s also why I enjoyed Blind Kiss so much. Their fourteen years of friendship is fil Talk about angst galore. My heart is beating overtime after finishing Blind Kiss. Holy moly I’m exhausted emotionally after have experienced Penny and Gavin’s story. Their story is one emotional roller coaster. My primary emotion while reading Blind Kiss was frustration. I was frustrated with Penny and Gavin. Frustrated by their choices and of course because their story didn’t went where I wanted it to go but that’s also why I enjoyed Blind Kiss so much. Their fourteen years of friendship is filled with so much love and pain but despite their struggles they were always there for one another. As years went on they were never out of touch with one another. When it finally did happen it was because it was what they both needed in their life. To gain perspective and to be ready for their next chapter in their lives.

Their first meeting, the blind kiss is truly a remarkable and intense scene of human connection. Emotionally and physically. Wow. I felt their kiss and their connection instantly. Penny and Gavin were inseparable from that moment and a beautiful friendship was formed. Not only with one another but also with each other’s parents. Their dads played a very important role in both their lives. Their scenes were highlights of mine.
To watch Gavin and Penny holding back and not just say screw it all and try a relationship was excruciating at times because their love was so obvious but life always came in the way making years fly by but they always drifted back to one another. They truly were each other’s constants and best friends.

Blind Kiss is angst at its best. I really enjoyed Gavin and Penny’s story. I had my doubts as the story went on but Renee Carlino delivers flawlessly with a perfect ending. The last five chapters almost tore my heart out but that’s really what this talented author do best and I welcomed the hurt. The epilogue healed me and left me feeling content. If you want a story about unconditional love, friendship and angst then Blind Kiss is THAT BOOK.

4 BadAssDirtyLifetimeStars

**Blind Kiss generously provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.** ...more

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Jun 17, 2018 Jessica (Angie & Jessica's Dreamy Reads) rated it it was amazing

Shelves: favorites

I'm not going to lie to you, THIS. BOOK. KILLS. As I sit here writing this review, my heart is still pounding out of my chest. I'm a burning pile of fiery rage and shaky nerves and conflicting thoughts and intense feelings at this very moment and I dont even know how to turn all of that into a coherent review. This book is INFURIATING. It's MADDENING. It takes ANGST and sexual tension and raw emotion and catapults it into another realm. I don't even have words to describe how angry and sad and d I'm not going to lie to you, THIS. BOOK. KILLS. As I sit here writing this review, my heart is still pounding out of my chest. I'm a burning pile of fiery rage and shaky nerves and conflicting thoughts and intense feelings at this very moment and I dont even know how to turn all of that into a coherent review. This book is INFURIATING. It's MADDENING. It takes ANGST and sexual tension and raw emotion and catapults it into another realm. I don't even have words to describe how angry and sad and desperate this book made me feel. Sure, it's also deliciously romantic and slow burning but the fact of the matter is that the longing and the fury and the heartbreak on these pages fought for center stage and won. Blind Kiss is on another level of angst and I can't even decide yet if that's good or bad.

I don't for a second want to deter anyone from reading this book (in fact, I highly recommend you do!) but I have strong feelings that all the reasons I loved this book are going to be the very same reasons other readers throw their kindles over it. I live for angsty reads that shatter my heart and infuriate me and make me want to scream. Angst is my jam. But even me, the angst addicted, drama loving, heartache craving reader that I am strongly recommends you stock up on alcohol while you read this book. Before, during, and yes, even after, you'll need a strong drink or nine to help you cope with the ULTIMATE roller coaster of emotions Renee Carlino will put you through on these pages. It's rough. It's brutal. It's worth it.

This is a friends to lovers romance that will systematically shred your heart and soul through a proverbial meat grinder. Do I think you should read it anyway? Absolutely. Did I devour this book in one sitting? Yes, I did. Am I still angry about certain choices this author made on these pages? Hell yes. Will I sleep tonight? Highly unlikely.

I'm still enraged. Even the sweet romantic sugary parts of this story have left me sore and achy and wounded. I suppose that's also what I loved most about it. All the things I hate about this story are also what I crave in a good book. I love to feel angry and torn and devastated and infuriated and lovesick and Renee Carlino delivers all of that. I also love when love prevails but the journey is impossibly difficult and unpredictable and riddled with pleasure pain and sensuality and drama. Blind Kiss checks all those boxes too.

This book is going to have us all talking. This book is going to garner vastly different opinions. This book is going to haunt me. This book will hurt. This book is probably my new favorite from this author even though I haven't forgiven her for it yet. This book is gut wrenching and beautifully brilliant and shocking and full of the most tender moments and the most infuriating twists and you'll ABSOLUTELY feel ALL. THE. THINGS. I loved it and I hated it and that's also why I loved it so much. ...more

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Aug 11, 2018 Gabby rated it really liked it

Shelves: 4-star-books, arc-or-won-or-received, love-triangle, books-to-reread-in-the-future, contemporary, romance, new-adult, own, read-in-2018, all-time-favorites

Holy shit I didn’t expect to love this as much as I did. Before We Were Strangers is one of my all time favorite books but Wish You Were Here was one of my least favorite books I've ever read, so I was torn whether or not I should read this one! I'm happy to say I really enjoyed this one! This is my favorite book from Renee Carlino since Before We Were Strangers!

This book follows Penny, a dancer and Gavin, a car mechanic. While in college they both participate in a psychological study on kissing Holy shit I didn’t expect to love this as much as I did. Before We Were Strangers is one of my all time favorite books but Wish You Were Here was one of my least favorite books I've ever read, so I was torn whether or not I should read this one! I'm happy to say I really enjoyed this one! This is my favorite book from Renee Carlino since Before We Were Strangers!

This book follows Penny, a dancer and Gavin, a car mechanic. While in college they both participate in a psychological study on kissing blindfolded and whether or not you can feel attraction without seeing. They kiss and it's magical, and they become best friends after. This story takes place over fourteen years, and every chapter jumps back and forth in time from the past, to the now when Penny is married to another man and has a son.

The reason why I knocked off a star is because this story started off with a lot of insta-love. Gavin literally gets her phone number and email tattooed on him and does some other questionable things that made me roll my eyes, but over time he grew on me and I realized his over the top reactions is kind of part of his personality. Also, I feel like the ending was really rushed. (view spoiler)

But other than that I actually kind of loved it. I felt a lot for these characters and this book actually made me laugh out loud multiple times because of Gavin and his strange sense of humor. (especially about recognizing Penny because of the sound of her ankles cracking LOL). This book actually reminded me a lot of Before We Were Strangers, it had a similar formula of a couple trying to find their way back to each other after 14 years and one of them has a kid and all that, but apparently this formula works for me because I really enjoyed it lol. I also liked how often music was mentioned throughout this book, and these characters like a lot of the same bands/artists that I do, like: The Cure, The National, Iron & Wine. (view spoiler)

I'm really glad I took a chance on this book. It was surprisingly amazing. It has restored my faith in romance novels from Renee Carlino! Thank you to Atria Books for sending me a copy! ...more

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Apr 18, 2018 Dilek VT marked it as not-interested

Shelves: second-chances

I don't favor second chance romance and fourteen years' separation is such a waste of time. Her son is going to college and her marriage is falling apart. Nope, too late for me to be interested in their HEA. I would be frustrated at their stupid choices, decisions and the loss of time. ...more

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May 20, 2018 Ashley rated it it was amazing

Shelves: netgalley, 2018

View this review and many more at: Ashes Books & Bobs.

ARC was generously provided through a Facebook giveaway in Renee’s fan group.

If you have been an avid reader for any length of time, you’re sure to have experienced the dreaded (possibly at times, coveted) book hangover. While I’ve read many awesome five star books this year, I’ve only experienced one book hangover until this point. Friends, I was drunk on Renee Carlino’s writing, straight up binge-reading-drunk on Blind Kiss. I started this View this review and many more at: Ashes Books & Bobs.

ARC was generously provided through a Facebook giveaway in Renee’s fan group.

If you have been an avid reader for any length of time, you’re sure to have experienced the dreaded (possibly at times, coveted) book hangover. While I’ve read many awesome five star books this year, I’ve only experienced one book hangover until this point. Friends, I was drunk on Renee Carlino’s writing, straight up binge-reading-drunk on Blind Kiss. I started this book intending to read a couple chapters here and there throughout the day. Instead, I ended up completely finishing the entire novel in one day. After sleeping and expecting to move on with another book, I have been stuck in a rut — life feels pointless without Penny and Gavin. I miss them and wish the book didn’t have to end.

I don’t know how Renee writes one unputdownable book after the next, maybe she sprinkled a little love potion in my copy when she signed it (thank you, Renee), but I was in awe of how well this story flowed, much like the others in her collection. I went into this book blind (pun intended), with knowledge only of the Northern Colorado setting, and no expectations other than the hope for a great love story. I was rewarded with an epic friendship which danced the fine line between platonic companionship and a life-altering romance. The chemistry between the characters was incredibly intense and exciting to read. I loved experiencing Penny and Gavin’s story with both the present and past perspectives, allowing me to get to know them and understand their relationship more fully. I felt like I was hanging out in FoCo in my early twenties with these amazing friends I had made, not as if I was reading about fictional people in very real places.

The whole premise of this story starts with a psyche experiment between strangers: “Can you have sexual chemistry without knowing what the other person looks like?” Penny and Gavin answer this question with a clear and resounding “YES!”. Immediately after sharing an earth-shattering kiss, Gavin nonchalantly asks Penny to go on a date with him at that very moment. What follows is an undeniable friendship, lots of funny innuendos, and a chastity belt (just kidding). Despite the unmatched chemistry these two share, Penny is determined to keep her friend as her friend. As life continues to move forward, their friendship remains, but their chance at love painfully begins to dwindle after one important decision is made.

This is the type of novel that is able to pull out every possible emotion from the reader. There were moments I was laughing, moments I wanted to shout “NO!”, times of tears, and instances where my stomach actually dropped to my ankles – AND I loved every heartwrenching second of it. There were moments the story felt a tad predictable, but I did not care in the slightest because I was completely engrossed in this book. Reading felt easy, fun, and as if I was watching one of my most-loved Rom-Coms for the fiftieth time. Speaking of movies, Hollywood needs to get their hands on the rights for a Renee Carlino screenplay. Her books would transfer to the screen better than works of many big-name authors, and Blind Kiss would a huge hit!

I can’t recommend this book enough if you’re someone who enjoys feeling all the feels and needs a good slow-burn romance, and easy read in your life. Renee nailed it! Pre-order this book now and enjoy it on August 14!

..........
5/20/18:
Omg. So good.
I’m so sad it’s over. I feel like I have nothing to do with my life now. ...more

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Sep 20, 2018 Jiana rated it it was ok · review of another edition

I’m so angry.

Oh boy oh boy oh boy!!

I love Renee Carlino's books. They remind me of CoHo's. However, this one was a disaster. The reason this book is 2 stars and not 1 is because Carlino's writing is still amazing and easy and because Gavin was a beautiful soul who deserved way better than selfish, whiny, dramatic Penny, the MC. Gavin reminded me so much of CoHo's male characters and that's why I loved him so much.

Ok my #1 issue in this book and I admit ruined the book greatly for me is Penny. I ...more

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Aug 12, 2018 Betül rated it it was amazing · review of another edition

Shelves: netgalley, 2018, arc, reviewed, contemporary-romance, friends-to-lovers

**ARC provided by publisher in exchange for an honest review**

description

4.5 stars

"I loved women, especially the weird ones. But Penny was more unique and talented and beautiful than any girl I had ever met."

The blurb is the perfect summary of this book. It all started with the blind kiss experiment, during which the sparks flew off of Penny and Gavin. I was intrigued to see how things between these two characters would develop. Normally, I love the dark and broody types, however I loved Gavin's dramatic a **ARC provided by publisher in exchange for an honest review**

description

4.5 stars

"I loved women, especially the weird ones. But Penny was more unique and talented and beautiful than any girl I had ever met."

The blurb is the perfect summary of this book. It all started with the blind kiss experiment, during which the sparks flew off of Penny and Gavin. I was intrigued to see how things between these two characters would develop. Normally, I love the dark and broody types, however I loved Gavin's dramatic and chaotic personality (not always though). Penny, was more serious, dedicated and had her life somewhat figured out. Gavin didn't really fit her plan that much, but she couldn't get rid of him. He was exciting and unpredictable, and I really enjoyed reading about his unique antics. Because we go back and forth into the past and presence, we already know that Penny and Gavin settle on being just friends. I wanted to see how these two came to make this difficult decision.

Were there times I was annoyed by the decisions made by both Penny and Gavin? YES! Especially, Penny made me angry at times at the decisions she made. She had her dramatic moments as well, which made me roll my eyes. However, would these two have made it if they got together when they first met? I have no idea. Blind Kiss was definitely angsty at times, but nothing I couldn't handle. Did I cry? Yes, I shed some tears, especially towards the end when my heart broke. I have a love/hate relationship with books that go back and forth between past and presence, however, I think it fit this story very well. I really enjoyed this story a lot, and I was hooked to the story until the end. The only reason I didn't give it 5 stars was because of the last quarter of the book. In my opinion there should've been more chapters, to have me fully enjoy the story. Everything kind of came together too perfectly and then it was finished. It left me a bit unsatisfied to be honest. However, the rest of the story was beautiful, original and heartbreaking at times. I highly recommend this book! ...more

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Jul 31, 2018 Angela (Reading Frenzy Book Blog) rated it liked it · review of another edition

Shelves: save-the-drama-for-your-mama, read-in-2018, 3-stars, romance, 2018-release, arc, contemporary

The premise of Blind Kiss is intriguing, and I confess I expected there to be some angst. What I didn’t expect was for the book to leave me mentally exhausted and exasperated.

The book opens with high intensity in the present day. There’s so much raw emotion and crazy behavior that I couldn’t help but get sucked in. I wanted to know what led the characters to such a desperate point in their lives.

Rewind to fourteen years ago and we see how Penny and Gavin met. This was one of the most enjoyable p ...more

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Aug 15, 2018 Wendy'sThoughts rated it really liked it · review of another edition

Recommends it for: Renee Carlino Fans, Romance

3.5 Own Worst Enemy Stars
* * * 1/2 Spoiler Free
Think About it...You are blindfolded, standing in front of a man or woman and you will be kissing them without seeing what they look like. There will be a quick hello, your senses will take in the scents around you, the intensity of what you hear and when the hands of this person touches your body at your waist...how will you respond...

Will lips be soft and coaxing...
Or will they be demanding...
Will you want more instinctively...
Or will you shut dow 3.5 Own Worst Enemy Stars
* * * 1/2 Spoiler Free
Think About it...You are blindfolded, standing in front of a man or woman and you will be kissing them without seeing what they look like. There will be a quick hello, your senses will take in the scents around you, the intensity of what you hear and when the hands of this person touches your body at your waist...how will you respond...

Will lips be soft and coaxing...
Or will they be demanding...
Will you want more instinctively...
Or will you shut down and push away, thrilled to get it over...

This is the hook and start of Blind Kiss by Renee Carlino.

SIDE BAR
On March 10, 2014 a filmmaker, Tatia PIlieva, published her YouTube video called First Kiss. She took twenty people, some where actors-some not, had them meet on camera and then do a First Kiss. They were at first shy, embarrassed, curious and then enthusiastic in their talking with each other before "doing the deed". We watched how some had immediate chemistry and others eh...There was one couple that looked like they were ready to take it to the next level.

When I first saw this book and the blurb, I immediately remember this video and that couple. I hoped they were the inspiration. Here is the video:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IpbDH...

Renee Carlino is a favorite author of mine. This time she wrote a book which will put you through the ringer. She presents a love between two people which spans decades and confusion they have about acting on it. One participant is too scared to risk giving her love freely and will cloak it as a best friendship she desperately needs.. The other does love freely, wants this relationship to be what it should... but is willing to be placed in this best friend roll in order to stay close.

Both have a weakness for the other and dance this very difficult emotional tightrope of clinging to this critical relationship through all of the ups and downs in their lives. This relationship withstands the marriage of one and the other intimate relationships of the other, resulting in a bond that will be tested time and time again.

The writing is as strong as Carlino has done but be prepared the angst level is extreme and is for those who are willing to go through an emotional roller coaster and run the gamut of all their feelings to receive the satisfying end. If that is your jam, then is up your alley.

A gifted copy was provided by Atria Books via NetGalley for an honest review.

For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways

...more

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Aug 11, 2018 AJ rated it it was ok

Shelves: arc, drama, romantic, angstfest

2 ‘self-inflicted-angstfest’ stars

This story is a hot mess. An angst-ridden ‘romance’ riddled with bad decisions, unnecessary heartache and a whole lot of frustration. There are readers out there who will love it, for me, it was hours of my life spent mostly eye-rolling and I finished it with an overall feeling of ‘meh’. So forgive me while I purge my feels.

Me while reading:

I was wary going into this book seeing how others were reacting to it, but I’m a big fan of Renee’s and was curious enough ...more

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Apr 20, 2019 *TANYA* rated it really liked it · review of another edition

Shelves: highly-recommend, tale-of-2-styles, best-of-2019

Yeah, this book had many of the clichés that frustrate me about a romance story. The back and forth, indecision’s, missed opportunities because of miscommunication and yet it worked for me. I was ready to give up on it, in fact I had started it and then set it aside. The bestie said I had to read it, and so I did and I loved it.

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Aug 09, 2018 Grey rated it really liked it

Buckle up, friends. You realize it's 2 a.m. here on the East Coast, right? I finished this book almost an hour ago, but can't sleep... So now, you all are going to be the lucky recipients of a Goodreads rant/review, because my feelings are *ALL* over the map here.

First, the good...well, to me, the great and super important... Spotify playlist! However, heads up ~ the original playlist has some songs that are no longer playable, they are greyed out. I did, of course, make a new playlist because Buckle up, friends. You realize it's 2 a.m. here on the East Coast, right? I finished this book almost an hour ago, but can't sleep... So now, you all are going to be the lucky recipients of a Goodreads rant/review, because my feelings are *ALL* over the map here.

First, the good...well, to me, the great and super important... Spotify playlist! However, heads up ~ the original playlist has some songs that are no longer playable, they are greyed out. I did, of course, make a new playlist because I need to completely submerse myself in the experience. Easy peasy, lemon squeezy... And an aural treat to enjoy!

Second, thank you to Netgalley for sending me this ARC to review prior to release day. The publisher has noted that this is not a completely proofed/edited copy and is subject to change so we should not quote passages without checking with them first. Which is good that they threw that in... I applaud it when they own the fact, knowing that there are still some places that needed to be polished up before the big release. But, I'm sad because I can't quote any larger passages in my review...*kicks rocks*

Now, for my actual review. This is touchy because I was fully engaged in this book. I did reaction updates here on goodreads... But in the essence of my rules about NO spoilers, I'm going to be rather cryptic about this.

I'd like you all to try a "fun" exercise with me. Imagine you have a panel of meters that indicate your feelings. This is my game, so my meter has the following meters; love, hate, smut, frustration, and angst. Yep, frustration and angst have their own meters and when you read the book you'll understand why. The meters go from 0-10, right? For me, I started reading and started turning the angst knob, just a little at first, but it was on, right from the beginning. But we add more characters, so let's turn on some new knobs...like frustration. Turn it up to 8... Leave it there. 55% of the book, I'm ready to check myself into a chocolate rehab, (is that a thing? Judging by the wrappers I had piled up, should have been...) Which cracks up both of my already turned on meters, oh look?!? Frustration, it's maxed out. It kicked on a new meter, usually this only comes on in extreme situations. It's the #wine meter. Luckily, I came prepared. Pink Moscato saved the day. (When the wine meter is activated, it comes standard, usually with Kleenex and Manny) Tears...oh yeah, I called for Manny.

Whew, that was difficult to explain! Now, I think you all understand... I felt alllll of the feels. I was mad, sad, and real pissed, did I mention I was mad yet? Gah. There were parts of this book I really, truly loved... It was very well-written. The side characters are used in such a way that you care about them... They add to the story, rather than detract. However, I got a bit fired up, obviously, even though I am deliberately being obtuse...I always have a problem with huge time jumps... I understand that things can't always be tied up in a bow *wink*, but ... Hmph, enough about that. And uh, the ending... Uh, what? Wow. Pretty abrupt.

So...here you go, my long winded thoughts about my latest read. 4 stars. ...more

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Jun 05, 2018 Pavlina Read more sleep less blog rated it really liked it

Shelves: arc, best-cover

4 stars

What a refreshing and intense story.From the first pages I was hooked and intrigued.Blind Kiss was another fantastic read from Renee Carliino, if you love angst and slow burn them this is for you!

description

Gavin and Penny meet during an experimental study in college where they both agreed to kiss a total stranger while blindfolded in order to test their physical chemistry. They have great connection these two.The concept was brilliant I haven't read anything like this one.

Gavin and Penny's story is ...more

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Jul 07, 2018 Liber_Lady rated it it was ok

*** ARC WAS GENEROUSLY PROVIDED BY NETGALLEY IN EXCHANGE FOR AN HONEST REVIEW***

Let me start by saying that this was my first Renee Carlino book. Yes. Shocking. I have heard a lot about this author and I had pretty high hopes from this one. But, I am definitely with the unpopular opinion here.

This book was a Gigantic case of FRIEND-ZONED FOREVER SYNDROME.

Gavin is the guy who has earned 1.5 out of the 2 stars that I rated. He was the guy who sailed hard till the end before the ship sunk for me. *** ARC WAS GENEROUSLY PROVIDED BY NETGALLEY IN EXCHANGE FOR AN HONEST REVIEW***

Let me start by saying that this was my first Renee Carlino book. Yes. Shocking. I have heard a lot about this author and I had pretty high hopes from this one. But, I am definitely with the unpopular opinion here.

This book was a Gigantic case of FRIEND-ZONED FOREVER SYNDROME.

Gavin is the guy who has earned 1.5 out of the 2 stars that I rated. He was the guy who sailed hard till the end before the ship sunk for me. (Fuck I'm being brutal :-( ) He was THE PERFECT GUY you could fall for. He was perfectly imperfect. He had his insecurities, his mood swings and manwh*re ways. But, he was the sweetest and the most understanding and rock solid guy in the book. He was funny and charming and could easily lift a sad person's mood. He was also extremely loyal and fell in love too easily. But, he had one weakness. PENNY.

Penny sucked the joy out of this book for me. She is the queen of bad decisions and stupidity that I have ever read. I understand that she was a teenager at the time some important decisions were made. But, fuck. On one hand, she was a lonely dancer, while on the other hand, she had kept two guys on the hook for years.

This book has 3 timelines. Present, 14 years ago and 9 months ago. Today, Penny is married to her husband with a 14 yr old genius kid, who is off to MIT. In her 14 years of marriage, she has been married to one guy and is best friend with another guy, Gavin. This book started with stupid insecurities and bad decisions and it went on like that for 92% of the book. This book is not a love triangle. But Penny and Gavin went back and forth (mostly Penny. She had friend-zoned Gavin so deep,it wasn't funny) God, I am so mad at her. She was the most insecure and indecisive character I have ever read. The smartest person in the book was her husband, who finally did the deal.

All this book taught me was to NEVER BE LIKE PENNY.

I am sorry guys, I know there are people in the world who have had to give up their love and make taught choices for the sake of your family. And I respect their choices. But, making these choices out of fear of being alone and not having the balls to end it when you know you are not happy, you shouldn't keep people on the hook for 14 years.. ...more

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Aug 14, 2018 Jamie Rosenblit rated it liked it

Since I stumbled upon Before We Were Strangers, Carlino has become a must read author for me. The minute her books make their way to me, I must devour them immediately. Three years after reading Strangers, I’m still quick to recommend it to friends!

Unfortunately, this was not those books for me. While still interesting and a fast read, the relationship between Penny and Gabe was so drawn out that I just couldn’t root for them majority of the time. And the abrupt ending was kind of frustrating.

W ...more

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Aug 10, 2018 Heather❀Book and a Blanket❀ rated it really liked it · review of another edition

Shelves: arc-2018, contemporary-romance, friends-who-fall-in-love, second-chance

I went into this blind and didn't even read the blurb. Well, I got the full effect of this emotional second chance romance. I'll be honest, I struggled with how to rate this book because I didn't know how I felt about the sequence of events. I still don't even know if I like the main characters. At the end of the day, I decided that any book that had me in such an emotional turmoil deserves a high rating.

Penny and Gavin have the best kind of relationship! The chemistry was there from the start. ...more

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Jun 07, 2018 Sarah/DragonflyReads rated it it was amazing

Shelves: for-review

photo DE617CC4-20A5-47F7-9644-ABB63F4D5151.jpg

EVERY SINGLE STAR FOREVER AND EVER!

”A decade’s worth of secrets and half-truths were crashing down on me as I stood in the cold, facing my husband of fourteen years and standing next to the love of my life. Who was I willing to hurt for more? Who was I willing to hurt more?”
—
Hey Sarah, what’s your favorite book of the year? Easy. BLIND KISS and it just released today! This was my first Renée Carlino book. I read this ARC a couple of months ago and it’s stuck with me since. I’m a forget ...more

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Aug 14, 2018 RentasticReads rated it it was amazing

Shelves: absolutely-love-this, second-chance-romance

“I wish it were you, Penny.”

I don’t even know where to begin. I don’t think I’ve stopped crying since I hit about 40% of this book. I couldn’t put it down. I couldn’t stop turning the pages and feeling everything. This book has certainly put my heart and soul through the wringer and I’m emotionally spent. Hell, tears are still streaming down my swollen and puffy eyes even as I’m writing this. Blind Kiss is definitely one of the BEST and a TOP READ of 2018! It just deserves all the da ...more

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Aug 22, 2018 Sharon ∞❥ is an emotional book junkie ❥∞ rated it really liked it · review of another edition

Shelves: read-in-2018, emotional-angsty-books

4.5 ⭐'s

“No, Penny, you’re not my Carissa or Lottie or Kimber. You’re my everything.”

Angst lovers you don’t want to miss this book!

Let's start with the rating...for me it’s always hard to rate a book that’s four, four point five or five stars. I sometimes get hung up on semantics and the other times I just have to go with my gut feeling. What makes a book a five star? Does it always have to meet all of your requirements or does it just have to make you feel good?

I guess I can say the reason th ...more

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Jul 31, 2018 Christine (Shh Moms Reading) rated it it was amazing

Shelves: 2018-top-fave

4.5 "oh how I love me some angst" STARS!

I love the heart palpitations that come from high-angst situations and Blind Kiss nearly KILLED ME but in an oh so delicious way!

You see our hero and heroine met in the most unlikely of situations—being in a blind kiss experiment testing whether or not you can have chemistry if you don't know what the other person looks like. When Penny and Gavin kiss and officially meet, it's awe-inspiring, magical... kismet... fate! *le sigh*

But fate has other plans... P 4.5 "oh how I love me some angst" STARS!

I love the heart palpitations that come from high-angst situations and Blind Kiss nearly KILLED ME but in an oh so delicious way!

You see our hero and heroine met in the most unlikely of situations—being in a blind kiss experiment testing whether or not you can have chemistry if you don't know what the other person looks like. When Penny and Gavin kiss and officially meet, it's awe-inspiring, magical... kismet... fate! *le sigh*

But fate has other plans... Penny is now in a loveless marriage with a beautiful son almost off to college, no longer a dancer, but still best friends with her beloved Gavin. Gavin who I completely LOVED upon meeting, who has stuck with her through thick and thin, through marriage, through heartbreak and happy times, all the while loving this woman from afar. I can't even tell you how this literally killed me... experiencing him sing the song he wrote for her on her wedding day, being the dependable good friend he has always been but wanting what he can't have. Oh my freaking heart!!! Let's not even talk about when he dates other women because HE IS MEANT FOR PENNY! I just couldn't wrap my arms around him being with someone else when I just wanted them to be together!!

But neither are perfect and mistakes and miscommunications are meant to be had...

This love story spans over 14 years of friendship and love. I'll be honest and admit that it will completely put you through the wringer. But it is a beautiful story nonetheless because readers will wait with bated breath for these two friends who have always loved each other to find the right time for THEM, to move past the mistakes and the consequences that kept them apart, and to find their happily ever after.

I love friends to more stories especially when it's the soulmate kind of love where you know in your heart that the characters are meant to be. There was never any doubt that Penny and Gavin would eventually find their way to one another but it was just a matter of finding the right time and this journey, while heartbreaking at times, is truly a beautiful story of longing for that forever love.

Readers who love angst, who love the back and forth of not knowing what will happen but love the experience of that heart-pounding love should pick up this book... Blind Kiss is the PERFECT summer read that will make your heart so very happy in the end. <3 ...more

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Aug 12, 2018 Allison ❤️Will Never Conquer Her TBR❤️ rated it really liked it · review of another edition

Shelves: arcs-blog-ng

If I had to choose two words to describe the plot of Blind Kiss, it would be a massive case of bad timing. I’d add a side of stubbornness and stupidity ~~but that’s me being picky about the heroine~~.

I’d noticed prior to reading this book, that readers were really frustrated with these two MCs. If you’re a fan of instant gratification, versus longer, more drawn out build to your love stories, Blind Kiss might have you throwing your kindle against a wall... just saying. I tend to get really pissy whe ...more

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Jul 29, 2018 Ellen ✦ Book Bellas ✦ rated it really liked it

Shelves: alternating-pov, romance, fiction, favorite-authors, arc, angsty, second-chance, slow-burn

"What might have been? I thought. What could still be?"

I ended up loving this one but the angst factor is absolutely OFF THE CHARTS!! 'Blind Kiss' is a fabulous, emotion-filled, slow-burn romance with an incredible Epilogue.

Gavin and Penny meet during an experimental study in college. They both agreed to kiss a total stranger while blindfolded in order to test their physical chemistry. They have an incredible, earth-shattering connection that leads to them becoming...best friends! Gavin wan ...more

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Oct 27, 2018 Amber’s reading rated it it was amazing

Shelves: intense, friends-to-lovers, contemporary-romance, favorites, made-me-cry, slow-burn, epic-love-story, top-favorites

This book was so addictive with angst, that I had to take a short break from my family and hide away to read. If you love books that span years, where the author makes the characters work for their HEA, then this book is for you. There is nothing fluffy and easy about this story. It seriously stressed me out, but I absolutely LOVED every bit of it.

In a sense, Blind Kiss reminded me of some of my favorite books - Drive by Kate Stewart and Undeniably You by Jewel E. Ann. Like those books, Blind K ...more

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