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Crazy Love
Semi-pro SBXer Luke Madison can’t afford any distractions. He’s chasing his dreams in Aspen, not realizing the dire consequences of his actions. Now, if Luke can’t pull off a miracle, his family could lose everything, and there’s no way he’ll let that happen.
No pressure or anything.
Charlotte Brown is determined to become a doctor—a neurologist to be precise, and she’s always precise. She doesn’t have time for anything except school, waitressing at a mountaintop café, and studying. Meeting the ridiculously sexy Luke Madison won’t change that plan, even if kissing him makes her pulse race.
Neither can afford to slip up. If Charlotte doesn’t pass the MCAT this time, that’s it. Her dream of saving people—people like her mother—is over. And when Luke risks everything one last time, losing is not an option.
Even if it means losing each other.
No pressure or anything.
Charlotte Brown is determined to become a doctor—a neurologist to be precise, and she’s always precise. She doesn’t have time for anything except school, waitressing at a mountaintop café, and studying. Meeting the ridiculously sexy Luke Madison won’t change that plan, even if kissing him makes her pulse race.
Neither can afford to slip up. If Charlotte doesn’t pass the MCAT this time, that’s it. Her dream of saving people—people like her mother—is over. And when Luke risks everything one last time, losing is not an option.
Even if it means losing each other.
277 pages, ebook
Published January 22, 2018
About the author
Kendra C. Highley
23 books714 followersKendra C. Highley lives in north Texas with her husband and two children. She also serves as staff to four self-important and high-powered cats. This, according to the cats, is her most important job. She believes in everyday magic, extraordinary love stories, and the restorative powers of dark chocolate
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
January 21, 2018
Luke dreams of becoming a snowboarding pro. He believes his time has come and has decided to grab the opportunity with both hands. He's dropped out of school and heading to his hometown. Luke hasn't told his parents yet and is trying to put off his visit. Time to hit the snow and work in his dream. Afterwards, he decides to have a hot drink before facing the family. He can't take his eyes off the waitress. She's gorgeous and sassy.
Charlotte wants to be a doctor and is studying every minute she has. She works in a coffee shop, goes to bed early and is determined to achieve her goals. She doesn't need any distractions. Luke is a very unwelcome eye candy, but the more she looks the brighter he shines.
Fate has brought these two together and it doesn't matter how much they fight it. Luke's arrival home doesn't go as planned and he finds his peace in the coffee shop.
I've read a few books by this author and I always look forward to what she will come up with next. Its safe to say I'm starting to become a fan. Suttonville sentinels are my favourite; The bad boy bargain is at the top.
4 stars out of 5.
*I received Crazy Love in exchange for an honest review.
Charlotte wants to be a doctor and is studying every minute she has. She works in a coffee shop, goes to bed early and is determined to achieve her goals. She doesn't need any distractions. Luke is a very unwelcome eye candy, but the more she looks the brighter he shines.
Fate has brought these two together and it doesn't matter how much they fight it. Luke's arrival home doesn't go as planned and he finds his peace in the coffee shop.
I've read a few books by this author and I always look forward to what she will come up with next. Its safe to say I'm starting to become a fan. Suttonville sentinels are my favourite; The bad boy bargain is at the top.
4 stars out of 5.
*I received Crazy Love in exchange for an honest review.
January 21, 2018
This is a lovely story of daring to go against family expectations, daring to follow your dreams and have adventures along the way!
Luke Madison has dropped out of college to seriously train and compete as a snowboard cross athlete, hoping to be able to compete at the highest levels and maybe even make the national team to compete in the Olympics. He has used his inheritance to pay for a coach to help him achieve his dreams. He hasn’t told his parents about this and they are expecting him to finish his degree and then come home to help run the family sportswear business - and he’s not looking forward to telling them.
Charlotte Brown is working as a waitress in the family diner owned and run by her best friend’s parents. She’s hoping to study to become a doctor, specialising in neurology, but is struggling to pass her MCAT so is working to fund her studies and taking every opportunity she can to study.
The two meet at the diner but it is only after Luke comes to Charlotte’s rescue that she agrees to meet him. This is the start of a romance filled with angst and turmoil - especially as a rival snowboarder seems willing to do anything he can to thwart Luke. I’d never heard of SBX before but the sport, racers and races were brought vividly to life in this story - so much so that I just had to check out some races on YouTube - wow!! No wonder Luke has to do so much training! I’ll definitely be watching it in the Winter Olympics. Both Luke and Charlotte are very focussed on achieving their dreams and really aren’t looking for the distraction of romance but love just has to have its way, but only after a few diversions and set backs en route.
This is a sweet romance, a story of taking responsibility for achieving your own dreams and not following those that others have for you. It is a story of growing up, working hard and finding love. It is a fun read that I enjoyed escaping into - and learnt from! There may be snow outside (and there is here at the moment) but this is a heart warming young adult romance that’s great for thawing those winter chills away.
I requested and received a copy of this novel, via NetGalley. This is my honest review after choosing to read it.
Luke Madison has dropped out of college to seriously train and compete as a snowboard cross athlete, hoping to be able to compete at the highest levels and maybe even make the national team to compete in the Olympics. He has used his inheritance to pay for a coach to help him achieve his dreams. He hasn’t told his parents about this and they are expecting him to finish his degree and then come home to help run the family sportswear business - and he’s not looking forward to telling them.
Charlotte Brown is working as a waitress in the family diner owned and run by her best friend’s parents. She’s hoping to study to become a doctor, specialising in neurology, but is struggling to pass her MCAT so is working to fund her studies and taking every opportunity she can to study.
The two meet at the diner but it is only after Luke comes to Charlotte’s rescue that she agrees to meet him. This is the start of a romance filled with angst and turmoil - especially as a rival snowboarder seems willing to do anything he can to thwart Luke. I’d never heard of SBX before but the sport, racers and races were brought vividly to life in this story - so much so that I just had to check out some races on YouTube - wow!! No wonder Luke has to do so much training! I’ll definitely be watching it in the Winter Olympics. Both Luke and Charlotte are very focussed on achieving their dreams and really aren’t looking for the distraction of romance but love just has to have its way, but only after a few diversions and set backs en route.
This is a sweet romance, a story of taking responsibility for achieving your own dreams and not following those that others have for you. It is a story of growing up, working hard and finding love. It is a fun read that I enjoyed escaping into - and learnt from! There may be snow outside (and there is here at the moment) but this is a heart warming young adult romance that’s great for thawing those winter chills away.
I requested and received a copy of this novel, via NetGalley. This is my honest review after choosing to read it.
December 8, 2019
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4 stars — I kinda wish I’d read Parker and Zoey’s story before this one, just to see what Luke was like there. It’s not officially a series, but they do reference stuff from Defying Gravity, so it might have been nice to read in order. Ah well.
Charlotte was an interesting heroine. I loved how sassy and no-nonsense she was, how she wasn’t afraid to stand up for herself…or rather, how she forgot to be afraid until afterwards. *snort* I also loved it when we got to see her in action with what is her passion (near the end of the story). She was a solid character, but not necessarily one that will stand out over time.
Luke was interesting himself, fighting between what he wants out of life and family expectations. I appreciated that the conversations around that with his family were realistic, filled with emotions, but not without a resolution. I found it super weird how apparently not that close he was with them all year, but then felt pretty close once he was up there. Like, he hadn’t talked to his brother at all? I think that’s part of what I would have gotten more of if I’d read the other story first.
Luke and Charlotte together were kinda adorable. I loved the way they crushed and flirted and moved onto more. I wasn’t expecting fade to black sex scenes, and while that disappointed me personally, take note everyone else who prefers those — this is a non-graphic new adult romance.
Mr. Bzdyl was a total surprise highlight in this story. I loved his relationship with his wife and daughter, and I loved how he embraced Charlotte into his family, and Luke too. It was super adorable. Like that family MADE this story
My other favourite part was the sports element to this story — I LOVED it! I’m a huge Olympics fiend, and so I loved seeing all the little details about snowboard cross competition. It really added excitement to the story, and also showed a realistic look at a competitor. It took a story that was solid and made it more IMO.
4 stars — I kinda wish I’d read Parker and Zoey’s story before this one, just to see what Luke was like there. It’s not officially a series, but they do reference stuff from Defying Gravity, so it might have been nice to read in order. Ah well.
Charlotte was an interesting heroine. I loved how sassy and no-nonsense she was, how she wasn’t afraid to stand up for herself…or rather, how she forgot to be afraid until afterwards. *snort* I also loved it when we got to see her in action with what is her passion (near the end of the story). She was a solid character, but not necessarily one that will stand out over time.
Luke was interesting himself, fighting between what he wants out of life and family expectations. I appreciated that the conversations around that with his family were realistic, filled with emotions, but not without a resolution. I found it super weird how apparently not that close he was with them all year, but then felt pretty close once he was up there. Like, he hadn’t talked to his brother at all? I think that’s part of what I would have gotten more of if I’d read the other story first.
Luke and Charlotte together were kinda adorable. I loved the way they crushed and flirted and moved onto more. I wasn’t expecting fade to black sex scenes, and while that disappointed me personally, take note everyone else who prefers those — this is a non-graphic new adult romance.
Mr. Bzdyl was a total surprise highlight in this story. I loved his relationship with his wife and daughter, and I loved how he embraced Charlotte into his family, and Luke too. It was super adorable. Like that family MADE this story
My other favourite part was the sports element to this story — I LOVED it! I’m a huge Olympics fiend, and so I loved seeing all the little details about snowboard cross competition. It really added excitement to the story, and also showed a realistic look at a competitor. It took a story that was solid and made it more IMO.
January 15, 2018
I was looking for something on the lighter side, and I got something even better from this book! This was such a fun, feel good romance, which left me with a sappy grin on my face.
Who?
• Luke - An aspiring SBX racer, who is worried about upsetting the family plan after withdrawing from college in order to chase his dreams.
• Charlotte - A take-no-nonsense, independent waitress, who has fled her life in Arizona in hopes that a change of scenery will help her conquer the MCAT and begin earning her medical degree.
What?
After Luke gallantly assists Charlotte tim some unruly customers at the Cafe, sparks fly and a small flame ignites between them, but is Luke ready for a long term relationship, and will they be able to nurture a new relationship while chasing their dreams?
Why?
Five things I loved about this book:
1. Luke and Charlotte were both super likable, and I really admired their dedication to their dreams. They were considerate, caring, self-sacrificing, determined, and not afraid of hard work. I was rooting for both of them the whole time.
2. This book is full of really healthy relationships. The hero and heroine of this story are adults, but their families, and their friends families, play a role in the story. I loved them all! The parents were obviously in love with each other and obviously loved their children. They spoke openly, honestly, and with care. Extra points for Mr. and Mrs. Bzdyl, because they were so lovely and served as a wonderful surrogate family for Charlotte.
3. I hate winter, snow, and the outdoors, but I loved all the action sequences on the mountain. I was not very familiar with SBX racing, but Highley put me right out there, in the heat of the moment with Luke.
4. This was a fun, low drama story. I was looking for something on the lighter side after reading two books about abuse, and this was exactly what I needed. My heart soared with every success Charlotte and Luke achieved, and my cheeks hurt from all the smiling I was doing.
5. I will always praise a strong ending, and this ending was strong. I actually have some tears of joy in my eyes at the end of this book.
Overall: If you are looking for a fun and light sports romance, that will leave you feeling happy, look no further. File this under the-fluff-that-makes-me-happy, because I am still feeling quite jubilant from this story.
*ARC received in exchange for an honest review.
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Who?
• Luke - An aspiring SBX racer, who is worried about upsetting the family plan after withdrawing from college in order to chase his dreams.
• Charlotte - A take-no-nonsense, independent waitress, who has fled her life in Arizona in hopes that a change of scenery will help her conquer the MCAT and begin earning her medical degree.
What?
After Luke gallantly assists Charlotte tim some unruly customers at the Cafe, sparks fly and a small flame ignites between them, but is Luke ready for a long term relationship, and will they be able to nurture a new relationship while chasing their dreams?
Why?
Five things I loved about this book:
1. Luke and Charlotte were both super likable, and I really admired their dedication to their dreams. They were considerate, caring, self-sacrificing, determined, and not afraid of hard work. I was rooting for both of them the whole time.
2. This book is full of really healthy relationships. The hero and heroine of this story are adults, but their families, and their friends families, play a role in the story. I loved them all! The parents were obviously in love with each other and obviously loved their children. They spoke openly, honestly, and with care. Extra points for Mr. and Mrs. Bzdyl, because they were so lovely and served as a wonderful surrogate family for Charlotte.
3. I hate winter, snow, and the outdoors, but I loved all the action sequences on the mountain. I was not very familiar with SBX racing, but Highley put me right out there, in the heat of the moment with Luke.
4. This was a fun, low drama story. I was looking for something on the lighter side after reading two books about abuse, and this was exactly what I needed. My heart soared with every success Charlotte and Luke achieved, and my cheeks hurt from all the smiling I was doing.
5. I will always praise a strong ending, and this ending was strong. I actually have some tears of joy in my eyes at the end of this book.
Overall: If you are looking for a fun and light sports romance, that will leave you feeling happy, look no further. File this under the-fluff-that-makes-me-happy, because I am still feeling quite jubilant from this story.
*ARC received in exchange for an honest review.
BLOG | INSTAGRAM | BLOGLOVIN | FRIEND ME ON GOODREADS
January 17, 2018
Charlotte Brown has got a job in Aspen at Christmas waiting tables at a family diner while she saves money and studies for her third retake (or is it the second retake after she took it?) of the MCAT. Charlotte's mother has MS and ever since her diagnosis Charlotte has know she wanted to be a doctor.
I think this is the second book in a series and I haven't read the first book. Actually, I've checked and it seems to be a follow on from the Finding Perfect duology. The reason for my rambling is that the hero of this book, Luke Madison apparently featured quite heavily in Defying Gravity and may have been a bit of a douche. Anyhoo, Luke has returned home from college to Aspen, where his parents run a sportswear shop, he has made the monumental decision to quit school and go all-out to make a career out of snowboarding or SBX. He's sunk all his inheritance into paying for a coach and dedicating his time to training, no matter what his parents have to say on the subject. He also still has a crush on his younger brother's girlfriend Zoey, but the (unknown) events of last year have led him to take a long hard look at himself and he didn't really like the player he had become.
Charlotte and Luke first meet at the diner, he is instantly attracted to her but she is put off, first because he looks like a pretty boy player and second because she wants to focus all her effort on studying. But after he comes to her rescue when a group of snotty, entitled, kids dine and dash Charlotte thinks there might be a better man underneath than she originally thought.
But when the stakes are high, do either of them have time for love?
I liked this but I didn't love it. Whilst I normally rail against the YA/NA need for excessive angst I felt this had too little conflict, too little grit. It all took place in such a short period of time as well so there was no development of conflict with Luke's parents or with Charlotte's mother's illness. Lots of things were hinted at ... and never happened. It was as though the book had a page limit and so all the sub-plots and angst got ditched just to get the basic story told.
Although there is sexual content it still felt very PG romance, complete with a cartoon villain SBX rival.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
I think this is the second book in a series and I haven't read the first book. Actually, I've checked and it seems to be a follow on from the Finding Perfect duology. The reason for my rambling is that the hero of this book, Luke Madison apparently featured quite heavily in Defying Gravity and may have been a bit of a douche. Anyhoo, Luke has returned home from college to Aspen, where his parents run a sportswear shop, he has made the monumental decision to quit school and go all-out to make a career out of snowboarding or SBX. He's sunk all his inheritance into paying for a coach and dedicating his time to training, no matter what his parents have to say on the subject. He also still has a crush on his younger brother's girlfriend Zoey, but the (unknown) events of last year have led him to take a long hard look at himself and he didn't really like the player he had become.
Charlotte and Luke first meet at the diner, he is instantly attracted to her but she is put off, first because he looks like a pretty boy player and second because she wants to focus all her effort on studying. But after he comes to her rescue when a group of snotty, entitled, kids dine and dash Charlotte thinks there might be a better man underneath than she originally thought.
But when the stakes are high, do either of them have time for love?
I liked this but I didn't love it. Whilst I normally rail against the YA/NA need for excessive angst I felt this had too little conflict, too little grit. It all took place in such a short period of time as well so there was no development of conflict with Luke's parents or with Charlotte's mother's illness. Lots of things were hinted at ... and never happened. It was as though the book had a page limit and so all the sub-plots and angst got ditched just to get the basic story told.
Although there is sexual content it still felt very PG romance, complete with a cartoon villain SBX rival.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
January 22, 2018
Received in exchange for a honest review.
This was so so fun. We see such a change in Luke from the last book. He grows and matures but also stands up for his dreams.
So quick and dirty:
Characters: Love all but one. Luke and Charlotte are so sweet, stubborn, sassy and just loveable from the beginning. Luke and charlotte’s family and friends are wonderful and strong side characters. Even Luke’s trainer is a hoot. Luke has really matured in this book and I love how he realizes he was an idiot and fixes it he owns his mistakes.
Storyline: Told in both Charlotte and Luke’s point of view. We have sassy banter. The family that runs the diner Charlotte works at are adorable. The story is about how charlotte and Luke are struggling to find their footing. One is going for SBX and afraid to tell their family the other is trying to pass the MCAT. They meet and are attracted right away. Luke’s easy going fun and sweet way just gets Charlotte especially after he becomes her knight in shining armor. They do have their ups and downs but they grow and learn but also support one another and find a way to realize their goals and be together. Their story is fun and sweet. The attraction sizzles. You will love how Charlotte doesn’t take any lip or attitude from Luke and he owns up to when he is an idiot. The support and respect they have for one another is great. The support of all around them is just wonderful as well.
Writing: nicely paced and very endearing. It flows nicely and with the bumps along the road, the growth of characters, the fight Luke has to realize his goals and the love and family in the story bring it to life through her words and descriptive flow of the story.
Overall: love this fun sweet endearing story of how Charlotte and Luke meet and fall in love.
This was so so fun. We see such a change in Luke from the last book. He grows and matures but also stands up for his dreams.
So quick and dirty:
Characters: Love all but one. Luke and Charlotte are so sweet, stubborn, sassy and just loveable from the beginning. Luke and charlotte’s family and friends are wonderful and strong side characters. Even Luke’s trainer is a hoot. Luke has really matured in this book and I love how he realizes he was an idiot and fixes it he owns his mistakes.
Storyline: Told in both Charlotte and Luke’s point of view. We have sassy banter. The family that runs the diner Charlotte works at are adorable. The story is about how charlotte and Luke are struggling to find their footing. One is going for SBX and afraid to tell their family the other is trying to pass the MCAT. They meet and are attracted right away. Luke’s easy going fun and sweet way just gets Charlotte especially after he becomes her knight in shining armor. They do have their ups and downs but they grow and learn but also support one another and find a way to realize their goals and be together. Their story is fun and sweet. The attraction sizzles. You will love how Charlotte doesn’t take any lip or attitude from Luke and he owns up to when he is an idiot. The support and respect they have for one another is great. The support of all around them is just wonderful as well.
Writing: nicely paced and very endearing. It flows nicely and with the bumps along the road, the growth of characters, the fight Luke has to realize his goals and the love and family in the story bring it to life through her words and descriptive flow of the story.
Overall: love this fun sweet endearing story of how Charlotte and Luke meet and fall in love.
January 30, 2018
Crazy Love is the perfect novel to read on a snowy day. It has the perfect combination of real life drama and romance. The main characters were well-written, and I could visualize every scenario they were in based on the great writing by the author.
I did find the Insta-love between Charlotte and Luke to be a bit unbelievable, and towards the end when she referred to him as "her boyfriend" so quickly, I did a little eye roll. I'm not a huge fan of Insta-love stories, but those who are will really enjoy this novel.
There is a lot of snowboarding references in the book that I didn't understand, but again, that is just a personal issue. Others will love a book dedicated to giving the reader an inside look into this sport.
I didn't love this one, but I also didn't hate it. It was enjoyable, and I was happy to spend a few days with it.
I would give Crazy Love 3/5 stars.
**Thank you Netgalley and Embrace publishing for allowing me to read this advanced copy in exchange an my honest review.**
I did find the Insta-love between Charlotte and Luke to be a bit unbelievable, and towards the end when she referred to him as "her boyfriend" so quickly, I did a little eye roll. I'm not a huge fan of Insta-love stories, but those who are will really enjoy this novel.
There is a lot of snowboarding references in the book that I didn't understand, but again, that is just a personal issue. Others will love a book dedicated to giving the reader an inside look into this sport.
I didn't love this one, but I also didn't hate it. It was enjoyable, and I was happy to spend a few days with it.
I would give Crazy Love 3/5 stars.
**Thank you Netgalley and Embrace publishing for allowing me to read this advanced copy in exchange an my honest review.**
February 6, 2018
crazy love is a sequel of sorts to defying gravity. but given the characters' ages, the story has a different feel. luke madison has come home a semester short of finishing his business degree at asu. he lives and breathes snowboardcross and has a chance to make the national team and the olympics, but only if he focuses on his training.
charlotte understands about needing to focus, she has one last shot at passing her mcat's and getting into medical school. growing up dealing with a mom who suffers from multiple sclerosis, all she knows is that she wants to heal people.
charlotte tries not to be distracted by luke, but when he comes to her rescue when some jerk patrons of the diner she's spending her winter break at try a dine-and-dash it becomes impossible to ignore him. not only is he getting his meals comped for being a hero, he's also funny and nice and not at all who she assumed he would be.
luke used to be the guy charlotte thinks he is. but he wants to do better. not just because of charlotte, though she is part of the reason. but also because he's finally growing up. he knows that he has a lot to prove by following his dreams. he is letting his family down in some ways that can't be helped. but they are giving him the space to do it nonetheless.
both charlotte and luke are juggling their obligations to their families, the intense pressure of working hard to fulfill their dreams, along with their simmering attraction to each other. what they learn is that being apart is more of a distraction than being together. and that the love that they've discovered together is something worth fighting for.
i so enjoyed their story. there are moments where both luke and charlotte are forced to look at things from a completely different perspective and the way that they grow and find ways to compromise is so satisfying. the slightly more adult tone, while a change for highley, works because she does such a good job of crafting an emotionally fulfilling story while mixing the right amount of heat, angst, and fluff.
**crazy love will publish on january 22, 2018. i received an advance reader copy courtesy of netgalley/entangled publishing (embrace) in exchange for my honest review.
charlotte understands about needing to focus, she has one last shot at passing her mcat's and getting into medical school. growing up dealing with a mom who suffers from multiple sclerosis, all she knows is that she wants to heal people.
charlotte tries not to be distracted by luke, but when he comes to her rescue when some jerk patrons of the diner she's spending her winter break at try a dine-and-dash it becomes impossible to ignore him. not only is he getting his meals comped for being a hero, he's also funny and nice and not at all who she assumed he would be.
luke used to be the guy charlotte thinks he is. but he wants to do better. not just because of charlotte, though she is part of the reason. but also because he's finally growing up. he knows that he has a lot to prove by following his dreams. he is letting his family down in some ways that can't be helped. but they are giving him the space to do it nonetheless.
both charlotte and luke are juggling their obligations to their families, the intense pressure of working hard to fulfill their dreams, along with their simmering attraction to each other. what they learn is that being apart is more of a distraction than being together. and that the love that they've discovered together is something worth fighting for.
i so enjoyed their story. there are moments where both luke and charlotte are forced to look at things from a completely different perspective and the way that they grow and find ways to compromise is so satisfying. the slightly more adult tone, while a change for highley, works because she does such a good job of crafting an emotionally fulfilling story while mixing the right amount of heat, angst, and fluff.
**crazy love will publish on january 22, 2018. i received an advance reader copy courtesy of netgalley/entangled publishing (embrace) in exchange for my honest review.
January 13, 2018
Luke resolved to pursue his dream and locked college for a period to compete in snowboard speed rinks. He goes to Aspen to train, see his parents for Christmas and participate in SBX circuit. He is focused and does not even need distractions, but everything changes when he meets the equally focused Charlotte. Charlotte wants to go to medical school, she has missed twice in the exam and will only have one more chance and goes to Aspen to help her friend's cafeteria , raise money for college and study without distractions but everything changes when the seductive Luke approaches her and the chemistry between them becomes unmanageable.
I love Kendra C. Highley's light, funny and fast stories. She has a writing style that leads me to get into the story and feel the characters' presence as real. In Crazy Love, she shows us how to keep up with the priorities without forgetting the world around us, how important it is to be correct in games, how love does not get in the way, and helps with motivation and what I find most interesting is knowing when people can sacrifice the body for the sport.
The supporting characters also give a show apart, highlighting to Evangeline, Charlotte's best friend and their families, always caring and helpful.
I fell in love with Luke's family as well, which shows how parents should realize their children's needs even if they are not their own.
I loved the cover only I thought that the title did not combine much, because I found their love very fluffy and centered.
5/5 stars
I love Kendra C. Highley's light, funny and fast stories. She has a writing style that leads me to get into the story and feel the characters' presence as real. In Crazy Love, she shows us how to keep up with the priorities without forgetting the world around us, how important it is to be correct in games, how love does not get in the way, and helps with motivation and what I find most interesting is knowing when people can sacrifice the body for the sport.
The supporting characters also give a show apart, highlighting to Evangeline, Charlotte's best friend and their families, always caring and helpful.
I fell in love with Luke's family as well, which shows how parents should realize their children's needs even if they are not their own.
I loved the cover only I thought that the title did not combine much, because I found their love very fluffy and centered.
5/5 stars
January 16, 2018
Love doesn't always happen at the most opportune times. It certainly doesn't for Luke Madison or Charlotte Brown. Neither of these two have the time to devote to a relationship. Luke has everything on the line as he returns to his hometown of Aspen to train for the upcoming snowboarding championships. Charlotte is working hard studying for the MCAT so she can achieve her dream of becoming a doctor and helping others. He's driven by the fact that his parent's business is on the line. She's driven by the experiences of her mother and the fact that no one seems able to help her. Yet the more they fight this attraction the crazier life seems to get. Can they each find a way to achieve their goals and hold on to each other??
You'll definitely want to read this one and find out. I highly recommend it.
You'll definitely want to read this one and find out. I highly recommend it.
December 24, 2017
This was a sweet young adult romance about Charlotte who has come to Aspen to study for her MCAT exam - yes, of course, that’s where people choose to study - and Luke who has dropped out of college to pursue a place on the national snowboarding cross team.
They fall for each other pretty quickly with only a few bumps in the road. The real bumps come as Luke speeds down the mountain in races while a jerky competitor tries to take him out. I had never watched a snowboarding race before and had to go to youtube to check out what a race looks like. Now I’m hooked and waiting for the winter Olympics. So if you’re a fan of the sport or a newbie like me, you’ll enjoy the action. Too many sports romances just use the sport as a reason to have a muscular guy and don’t include much from the actual sport. It’s nice to read a book that goes into the training involved as well as takes us down the mountain while they’re competing. The romance was sweet also.
I was given a free ARC of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
They fall for each other pretty quickly with only a few bumps in the road. The real bumps come as Luke speeds down the mountain in races while a jerky competitor tries to take him out. I had never watched a snowboarding race before and had to go to youtube to check out what a race looks like. Now I’m hooked and waiting for the winter Olympics. So if you’re a fan of the sport or a newbie like me, you’ll enjoy the action. Too many sports romances just use the sport as a reason to have a muscular guy and don’t include much from the actual sport. It’s nice to read a book that goes into the training involved as well as takes us down the mountain while they’re competing. The romance was sweet also.
I was given a free ARC of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
January 3, 2018
Crazy Love is a fun filled adventure with so much snow it makes you shiver. (Or that's the zero degree weather we are having right now.)
Crazy Love or not, this book is sweet and sexy. It's fun and the energy will keep you thoroughly entertained. With adrenaline flowing through you from the snowboarding, to anger, and lust, you will coast through the to the end before you even realize you've gotten that far.
I hope you are willing to take the plunge because these guys are worth the risk.
Crazy Love or not, this book is sweet and sexy. It's fun and the energy will keep you thoroughly entertained. With adrenaline flowing through you from the snowboarding, to anger, and lust, you will coast through the to the end before you even realize you've gotten that far.
I hope you are willing to take the plunge because these guys are worth the risk.
March 15, 2018
This was a really sweet read.This is Charlotte and Luke's story these two first meet at a diner and the attraction is immediate but she's put off because she needs to concentrate on studying and she thinks he's a player but after he comes to her aid she starts to see him in an all new light.This was a really cute read its just perfect for a lazy afternoon
March 9, 2018
Kendra C. Highley is one of my favorite authors. Her books do not disappoint. Crazy Love is not different.
January 23, 2018
I have a major weakness for swoony sport romance so Crazy Love was right up my alley. Luke and Charlotte were both super likable characters and the book was filled with great secondary characters as well. Charlotte was fun and sassy and I liked how committed she was to her goals. I found the relationship to be sweet and heartwarming. I loved how strong their attraction was, but also seeing their friendship develop and how they supported each other. I was already a fan of Kendra C. Highley's YA work from reading the Suttonville Sentinels series, and am glad to discover her NA work as well.
**I voluntarily read an advance copy**
**I voluntarily read an advance copy**
January 22, 2018
I’ve been on a real winter sports romance kick lately, so this New Adult entry was right up my alley. It’s also refreshingly sweet and heartwarming, despite also dealing with some serious issues. You’d expect certain things from a romance between a rich playboy snowboarder and a studious wannabe med student, but there’s ever so much more than that. This was a really lovely comfort read!
Luke’s previous relationships have all been of the player-variety, but he’s tired of those and wants a relationship instead. Luke’s given up a lot to compete in the SBX regionals – he’s withdrawn from college, possibly alienating his family, who were counting on him to join the family company after he graduates. It’s not that he doesn’t want to do that, eventually, just that he knows he has a time limit for how long he can compete competitively at snowboard cross.
Charlotte thinks Luke’s just another pretty-boy player, and she’s been there, done that before. She also doesn’t want any distractions from studying for the MCAT. She only has one retake left, and while she has a backup plan for being a physician’s assistant, she’s dreamed of being a neurologist since she was a child. Her mom has multiple sclerosis , and she’s realized what a difference a caring and compassionate doctor can make to patients and their families, and she luckily both loves the science behind it and wants to help people.
Of course, Charlotte eventually agrees to go on a date with him, and their romance is just so sweet. The chemistry between them is steamy, and you can definitely feel their attraction to each other. I had nostalgic flashbacks to my college-age romances, so I think Ms. Highley really hit it out of the party with the relationship. But it’s not just physical attraction, but the start of a friendship as well. Luke gives Charlotte a beginner’s snowboarding lesson, and cooks her dinner. Charlotte cheers for him at his races and is there to lend an ear when his family issues come to a head. They support each other. Charlotte realizes there are times when Luke needs to focus on his training, and Luke helps boost Charlotte’s confidence for the MCAT.
Despite the various medical and family issues, this book is remarkably low angst, and also a bit low conflict. Despite that, there is a nice emotional payoff. The inevitable “you’re a distraction” argument happens relatively early in the book, and the rest of the conflict is provided by worrying whether Luke will make it into the regionals or not. I had no idea snowboard cross even existed before this book, let alone that it was an Olympic sport, and after reading a certain scene (you’ll know which one, lol) I had to look up and watch several races on YouTube (and, uh, Charlotte was right, they are HOT). Luke’s runs down the mountain are described in detail, and I loved it.
Most of the characters – besides the ones who weren’t supposed to be – are very likable. I especially loved their families – they’re both conflict and comfort for the characters. It was nice to see two young twenty-somethings who both love their families, while at the same time understanding what might be best for themselves may not be right for their families.
I was somewhat surprised to see that there was a previous book with Parker, Zoey and Luke. I did feel like I was missing something with the first reunion between the three in the very first chapter, but otherwise this works perfectly fine as a standalone. I’d love to see a follow-up book with Evangeline and Kit!
Overall, this is a sweet, heartwarming romance, and I’ll definitely be looking up more books by Ms. Highley. A good read for while you’re snowed in at your apartment and waiting for your boyfriend to show up on his dad’s snowmobile!
I received this book for free from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
“I just want to make sure this is worth it. I actually like my family, cheesy as that sounds. I don’t want to be disinherited and come in ninth at the trials.”
Luke’s previous relationships have all been of the player-variety, but he’s tired of those and wants a relationship instead. Luke’s given up a lot to compete in the SBX regionals – he’s withdrawn from college, possibly alienating his family, who were counting on him to join the family company after he graduates. It’s not that he doesn’t want to do that, eventually, just that he knows he has a time limit for how long he can compete competitively at snowboard cross.
Charlotte thinks Luke’s just another pretty-boy player, and she’s been there, done that before. She also doesn’t want any distractions from studying for the MCAT. She only has one retake left, and while she has a backup plan for being a physician’s assistant, she’s dreamed of being a neurologist since she was a child. Her mom has multiple sclerosis , and she’s realized what a difference a caring and compassionate doctor can make to patients and their families, and she luckily both loves the science behind it and wants to help people.
“‘I seem to have developed a taste for SBX. Those guys are pretty sexy, you know.’
Luke cupped her cheek. ‘I was hoping you’d say that. Because I’ve developed a taste for smart, gorgeous medical-school hopefuls.’”
Of course, Charlotte eventually agrees to go on a date with him, and their romance is just so sweet. The chemistry between them is steamy, and you can definitely feel their attraction to each other. I had nostalgic flashbacks to my college-age romances, so I think Ms. Highley really hit it out of the party with the relationship. But it’s not just physical attraction, but the start of a friendship as well. Luke gives Charlotte a beginner’s snowboarding lesson, and cooks her dinner. Charlotte cheers for him at his races and is there to lend an ear when his family issues come to a head. They support each other. Charlotte realizes there are times when Luke needs to focus on his training, and Luke helps boost Charlotte’s confidence for the MCAT.
Despite the various medical and family issues, this book is remarkably low angst, and also a bit low conflict. Despite that, there is a nice emotional payoff. The inevitable “you’re a distraction” argument happens relatively early in the book, and the rest of the conflict is provided by worrying whether Luke will make it into the regionals or not. I had no idea snowboard cross even existed before this book, let alone that it was an Olympic sport, and after reading a certain scene (you’ll know which one, lol) I had to look up and watch several races on YouTube (and, uh, Charlotte was right, they are HOT). Luke’s runs down the mountain are described in detail, and I loved it.
Most of the characters – besides the ones who weren’t supposed to be – are very likable. I especially loved their families – they’re both conflict and comfort for the characters. It was nice to see two young twenty-somethings who both love their families, while at the same time understanding what might be best for themselves may not be right for their families.
I was somewhat surprised to see that there was a previous book with Parker, Zoey and Luke. I did feel like I was missing something with the first reunion between the three in the very first chapter, but otherwise this works perfectly fine as a standalone. I’d love to see a follow-up book with Evangeline and Kit!
Overall, this is a sweet, heartwarming romance, and I’ll definitely be looking up more books by Ms. Highley. A good read for while you’re snowed in at your apartment and waiting for your boyfriend to show up on his dad’s snowmobile!
I received this book for free from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
January 27, 2018
Charlotte Brown wants to be a doctor, but passing the MCAT test is harder than she imagined, and if she fails it this third time around her dream is over, which means she can't afford any distractions. However, there's something about semi-pro SBXer Luke Madison that she finds hard to resist. Will Charlotte give Luke a chance, or will the distraction they cause for each other force them to walk away from their chance at happy ever after?
This book is an enthralling and wonderful read and a story that had me totally hooked from the very beginning, as the hero is passionate and so pumped to compete and hopefully achieve his dream. Will he achieve his dream? However, it was from the moment the hero and heroine meet that had me reading quickly determined to discover what obstacles these two would face on their journey to happy ever after, as distractions could prove costly. Will Charlotte's need to focus for her upcoming exam make her walk away from a great guy? Will Charlotte prove too much of a distraction for Luke to make him walk away from his Ms. Right?
Both the main characters were compelling and I loved every interaction between them, as Charlotte misjudges Luke in the beginning, but ends up giving him a chance because he's a good guy. Moreover, the heroine loves her family and would do anything for them. They're the reason she wants to be a doctor because she cares too much when it comes to what's happening to her mom. I also liked how she would do anything for her friends, which is proven by her work attitude and what she does for Luke that shows how good of a doctor she will be once she gets through medical school. Certainly, she knows her stuff. Yet, what I liked most of all about the heroine was her resilience, courage and her determination to do her best in everything, but most especially when it came to her need to get into medical school, which was very important to her.
While the hero, his point-of-view makes this story an exciting read because of the moments where he's competing or training to achieve his dreams. Really, he's enthusiastic and so determined to do his best, and I liked that he finally won his family over, even though it wasn't easy because of his mom's reaction and what happens to his father that makes him feel guilty that he's letting his family down. Yet, what I liked most of all about the hero was his determination to win the heroine over, especially because of her initial assessment of him. Will he prove her wrong? Will he be capable of settling down?
Overall, Ms. Highley has delivered a really good read in this book where the chemistry was memorable between these two; the romance was lightly-detailed, but shows how right these two are for each other; and the ending had me loving the way the heroine supports and helps the hero with what he faces towards the end. Lucky, she's on his side and knows what she's doing when it comes to anything a medical professional would need to attend to. However, it was the epilogue that wrapped this story up perfectly, as the hero and heroine are perfect together. I would recommend Crazy Love by Kendra C. Highley, if you enjoy New Adult Romance or books by authors Amanda Ashby, Molly E. Lee, Cate Cameron and Kadie Scott.
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January 19, 2018Luke is a up and coming snowboarder who has his career mapped out for him for after he graduates college. He is supposed to take over the family business. He wanted to take the risk and live out his dream before hunkering down and not look back years and wished he would've at tried his best at what he wanted in life and that was heading to the Olympics.
Charlotte is a waitress, moved to Aspen to get away from any distractions to study for the MCAT for medical school to become a doctor. I liked her no BS attitude. She didn't let anyone step all over her.
Luke and Charlotte meet and she sort of struggles a bit because she assumes he's just your typical, hot, player type. But, she knew she couldn't fight the draw she had with him. As they start seeing each other, they start doubting the distractions they have with each other and if it was getting in the way of their goals, professional snowboarding and getting into medical school. They had a bump but clearly realized they couldn't stand to be away from each other and had their HEA. It is a sweet story, PG, quick read. Overall, I liked it. Would recommend it to anyone looking for a sweet love story.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own
Charlotte is a waitress, moved to Aspen to get away from any distractions to study for the MCAT for medical school to become a doctor. I liked her no BS attitude. She didn't let anyone step all over her.
Luke and Charlotte meet and she sort of struggles a bit because she assumes he's just your typical, hot, player type. But, she knew she couldn't fight the draw she had with him. As they start seeing each other, they start doubting the distractions they have with each other and if it was getting in the way of their goals, professional snowboarding and getting into medical school. They had a bump but clearly realized they couldn't stand to be away from each other and had their HEA. It is a sweet story, PG, quick read. Overall, I liked it. Would recommend it to anyone looking for a sweet love story.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own
January 23, 2018
After reading Defying Gravity, the book where Luke is first introduced, I both wanted his story ASAP and wondered how on earth he was going to be redeemed. It takes a talented author to take a pretty unlikeable character who was full of himself and make you want to root for him. That happened 100% in Crazy Love.
Luke is back home to pursue his dream of professional snowboarding but his family was counting on him to take over the family business upon graduation. The struggle that Luke faced between following his dream and doing the "right" thing for his family was ultimately what made me love Luke. Charlotte is in Colorado to focus on studying for the MCAT and save some money. She only has one more chance to pass so she doesn't have any time for distractions and that's exactly what Luke is: a ginormous distraction. I loved her determination and that she also was realistic about her goals with plans and backup plans.
The buildup to the relationship between Luke and Charlotte was seriously swoon worthy. I loved that Luke was completely honest with Charlotte about what he had been like before meeting her and how she never just took whatever he gave. She stood her ground and called him out on things. My favorite thing about these two was that they supported each other. This story was sweet, swoony, heartwarming, and low on the drama. I loved this author's foray into NA and I hope that there's more to come in the future.
*This is my voluntary review of an advanced reader copy*
Luke is back home to pursue his dream of professional snowboarding but his family was counting on him to take over the family business upon graduation. The struggle that Luke faced between following his dream and doing the "right" thing for his family was ultimately what made me love Luke. Charlotte is in Colorado to focus on studying for the MCAT and save some money. She only has one more chance to pass so she doesn't have any time for distractions and that's exactly what Luke is: a ginormous distraction. I loved her determination and that she also was realistic about her goals with plans and backup plans.
The buildup to the relationship between Luke and Charlotte was seriously swoon worthy. I loved that Luke was completely honest with Charlotte about what he had been like before meeting her and how she never just took whatever he gave. She stood her ground and called him out on things. My favorite thing about these two was that they supported each other. This story was sweet, swoony, heartwarming, and low on the drama. I loved this author's foray into NA and I hope that there's more to come in the future.
*This is my voluntary review of an advanced reader copy*
December 26, 2017
Luke has come home from college with plans to train and compete in Snowboard Cross. There he meets Charlotte who is working at a local Aspen cafe her best friend's family owns.
It isn't the best time for either of them to start a relationship with his training and her studying to take the MCAT.
I really liked that both Luke and Charlotte have goals and dreams that are important to them outside of their friendship and possible romance. It made them more relatable and well-rounded characters.
The plot is well paced and I enjoyed learning about Snowboard Cross. The secondary characters add some humor and sweet moments to the story too.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
It isn't the best time for either of them to start a relationship with his training and her studying to take the MCAT.
I really liked that both Luke and Charlotte have goals and dreams that are important to them outside of their friendship and possible romance. It made them more relatable and well-rounded characters.
The plot is well paced and I enjoyed learning about Snowboard Cross. The secondary characters add some humor and sweet moments to the story too.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
December 17, 2017
A cute winter read. Crazy Love takes you into a world of competitive snowboard cross. I love this one. I couldn't put it down once i got started. Luke and Charlotte seem to have instant chemistry. They maybe some what different him the extreme daredevil athlete and her the med student but they just click so well. I love how they are with their families. Kendra C. Highley did a fabulous job with this one. As first time read I can't wait to dig into more of her books. I'm also kind of hoping for more Charlotte, Luke, Kit and Evangeline. If you are looking for a some what quick winter read then this is one to check out.
December 24, 2017
This was a very cute winter read. I really liked Luke and Charlotte together. I didn't read the first book Luke was in and I wasn't lost and I didn't have any real spoilers for the first book. The romance was very cute in a fluffy way and there were definitely some sparks and chemistry going on. This was definitely a new adult book, not a young adult but I think Ms. Kendra did a good job writing her first new adult book and I'd definietly recommend this one and look forward to reading more. It didn't take me long to read at all.
This was definitely a five star read.
I received this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
This was definitely a five star read.
I received this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
December 22, 2017
ARC provided by Netgalley in exchange for a review.
This was a cute and sweet romance and a great afternoon read. I liked both main characters as well as the secondary characters and I liked how we get a look into the SBX world. It's a sport I don't know much about and it was interesting to get more detail about it.
This was a cute and sweet romance and a great afternoon read. I liked both main characters as well as the secondary characters and I liked how we get a look into the SBX world. It's a sport I don't know much about and it was interesting to get more detail about it.
June 6, 2021
This is the story that follows right after "Defying Gravity (Finding Perfect #2)", so I'm not sure why is it being shown as a stand-alone?!
Anyhow, I give it 4 Stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐, mostly because I prefer a slow-burn romance. This one was almost an insta-love, and not really my thing.
Anyhow, I give it 4 Stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐, mostly because I prefer a slow-burn romance. This one was almost an insta-love, and not really my thing.
April 20, 2018
I like this author! This is what a cheesy teen romance is supposed to be, ha ha. I liked it.
February 12, 2018
Received an eArc of this book from the publisher's through netgalley in exchange for an honest review
I enjoyed this book this is the second book that I have read from Kendra and it didn't disappoint. I loved the premise of this book and I love my sport romances and this is the first book that I have read about snowboarding.
This was a cute fast paced read and I couldn't put it down once I started reading it. I loved the chemistry between Luke and Charlotte and I loved that they had goals outside their relationship and their friendship also made them more relatable. I can't wait to read the next instalment of this series
I enjoyed this book this is the second book that I have read from Kendra and it didn't disappoint. I loved the premise of this book and I love my sport romances and this is the first book that I have read about snowboarding.
This was a cute fast paced read and I couldn't put it down once I started reading it. I loved the chemistry between Luke and Charlotte and I loved that they had goals outside their relationship and their friendship also made them more relatable. I can't wait to read the next instalment of this series
January 8, 2018
Cute sports romance. Very predictable, a little lovey, but cute none the less.
January 16, 2018
Another fantastic book by a new author to me. Definitely be reading more of her books in the future I can tell you. Plus I have to say that I have a soft spot for all entangled authors and I’m always willing to give these authors books ago. Your always guaranteed a great story to read just like this book. It had me glued to my iPad and I found it impossible to put this book down once I started reading it. I like the storyline, the amazing characters and the great romance the author has written In this story and I would recommend giving this book and this author ago.
January 22, 2018
This review was originally posted on Bookish Things & More 5 reasons to read Crazy Love
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