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Don't Blame Me
Sometimes love’s a drug. The rush can be so addicting. All that matters is the high. Not the consequences. Not the damage left in its wake. Adrian Robinson was a college football star, with his future all mapped out. He didn’t expect to fall for feisty Leah Hunter. Nor did he expect the destruction left in its wake when it all came to an end, Now, Adrian’s a hotel magnate and one of the most eligible bachelors in the world. He has it all, except the one woman he has kept in his heart for years. And he’s willing to do anything to get her back. Leah hasn’t seen Adrian since the day she was forced to pick up the pieces of her broken heart. When Leah is assigned to write a piece on him for her magazine, remnants of their torrid romance still burn like yesterday. Will the high be worth it this time? Or is it destined to crash and burn?
365 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 10, 2018
11 people are currently reading
34 people want to read
About the author
Kay Blake
20 books76 followersKay is an award-winning author. She writes romance (contemporary, young adult and interracial romance). Sarcasm and sweetness go hand and hand when she isn't being a mom or snuggled up at home reading a good book, Kay indulges in strawberry cheesecake, horror movies, anime, The Walking Dead, wrestling, and of course a happily ever after. Kay is also a wrestling broadcaster for various indie promotions and a media correspondent for various outlets.
She’s the creator of Bookish Brown Girls, a platform dedicated to uplifting and showcasing authors of color and the books they write. She’s also one half of The Bookish Brown Girls Podcast.
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Social Media: @authorkayblake (Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest and Wattpad.)
She’s the creator of Bookish Brown Girls, a platform dedicated to uplifting and showcasing authors of color and the books they write. She’s also one half of The Bookish Brown Girls Podcast.
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Social Media: @authorkayblake (Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest and Wattpad.)
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
August 4, 2018
Love a good rollercoaster of emotions novel! This had me gripped from early on. Adrian and Leah were soulmates until it was all taken away. Years later can Adrian win her back and gain her trust?
Might just have to read this one again ❤️
Fabulous cover too.
Might just have to read this one again ❤️
Fabulous cover too.
August 13, 2018
4.5 stars for this beautifully written gem. Adrian was a gorgeous former college football player whose career ended due to injury. Good thing his father was a hotel mogul who wanted him to join the family business.
Little did Adrian know, his ruthless father and heartless mother were the catalyst for everything Bad in his life.
He met the beautiful no-nonsense Leah one day on campus after knocking her over. He was too busy staring at a scantily clad chick to watch where he was going. He soon found that Leah was different from the groupies he was used to on campus.
They eventually get together after Leah made him chase her a bit. He was intrigued and fascinated by this strong willed girl who wasn't impressed with his superstar athlete status. Then an injury, coupled with some unwelcome news, changes everything.
Twelve years later the two meet again as Leah is set to interview Adrian for her magazine's Most Eligible Bachelor article. Drama ensues as his parents once again prove they are not worthy of breathing air. They are horrible people. I won't ruin the book by giving away what they did, but it is unfathomable.
It takes a good minute, but Leah and Adrian finally get their HEA. I enjoyed how the story started in present day, and then flashed back to their college days to give the backstory. And boy what a backstory it was! The book kept me on edge wanting to know what was going to happen with these two. Seriously, I wanted to take Adrian's parents out. They are evil.
Little did Adrian know, his ruthless father and heartless mother were the catalyst for everything Bad in his life.
He met the beautiful no-nonsense Leah one day on campus after knocking her over. He was too busy staring at a scantily clad chick to watch where he was going. He soon found that Leah was different from the groupies he was used to on campus.
They eventually get together after Leah made him chase her a bit. He was intrigued and fascinated by this strong willed girl who wasn't impressed with his superstar athlete status. Then an injury, coupled with some unwelcome news, changes everything.
Twelve years later the two meet again as Leah is set to interview Adrian for her magazine's Most Eligible Bachelor article. Drama ensues as his parents once again prove they are not worthy of breathing air. They are horrible people. I won't ruin the book by giving away what they did, but it is unfathomable.
It takes a good minute, but Leah and Adrian finally get their HEA. I enjoyed how the story started in present day, and then flashed back to their college days to give the backstory. And boy what a backstory it was! The book kept me on edge wanting to know what was going to happen with these two. Seriously, I wanted to take Adrian's parents out. They are evil.
August 30, 2018
Linda Christiani
I'm a sucker for second chance romance and even though I like the man to really work hard to get back this was still a good read would recommend
I'm a sucker for second chance romance and even though I like the man to really work hard to get back this was still a good read would recommend
August 7, 2018
Read For Author:
Full Disclosure this is the first that I have read a Kay Blake book and I was happily surprised. It was so good, easy to follow and with an HEA you really didn't see coming.
Adrian fell in love with Leah in college but life got in the way - now he runs a large Hotel in New York and he see's a second chance with the woman he has never forgotten.
Leah has always been one to stand her ground when she get's an assignment that brings her face to face with what broke her heart how will she handle it?
Will Adrian ever find out what really happened in College and can they make a go of this relationship? This book is worth the money and time to read it shows real-life issues and angst. I was honored to get to read it.
Full Disclosure this is the first that I have read a Kay Blake book and I was happily surprised. It was so good, easy to follow and with an HEA you really didn't see coming.
Adrian fell in love with Leah in college but life got in the way - now he runs a large Hotel in New York and he see's a second chance with the woman he has never forgotten.
Leah has always been one to stand her ground when she get's an assignment that brings her face to face with what broke her heart how will she handle it?
Will Adrian ever find out what really happened in College and can they make a go of this relationship? This book is worth the money and time to read it shows real-life issues and angst. I was honored to get to read it.
August 20, 2018
Adrian is the popular football player who is used to getting whatever he wants whenever he wants. When Leah doesn’t immediately melt under his attention he is intrigued and is determined to win the girl. Once he did their life should have been perfect but other conspired to ensure that didn’t happen.
Twelve years later Leah is a journalist and her next assignment is to interview Adrian who is now managing the family hotel business. The chemistry between them is stronger than ever but will history end up repeating itself and is Leah destined for heartbreak once again?
The characters are well developed as they manage to raise feelings both good and bad. I voluntarily read this book through an Advanced Reader Copy.
Twelve years later Leah is a journalist and her next assignment is to interview Adrian who is now managing the family hotel business. The chemistry between them is stronger than ever but will history end up repeating itself and is Leah destined for heartbreak once again?
The characters are well developed as they manage to raise feelings both good and bad. I voluntarily read this book through an Advanced Reader Copy.
July 30, 2018
Adrian and Leah have a history, and now that Adrian has been announced at the most Eligible Bachelor, Leah, who is a journalist has been assigned to interview this hotel magnet. Will the secrets from the past be revealed? Will these two have a second chance at love? No spoilers; this is a definite must read, you will not be disappointed! This is a well written story, which is flawless, and an all-round engaging page turner. I was hooked and intrigued throughout, and I look forward to reading more from this talented author.
August 2, 2018
Wow! This was an intense book. Adrian and Leah who were college lovers had so many obstacles to get through. I admit, that I wanted clock Adrian over the head a few times. Because it seemed he never learned the lessons he was meant to learn. Especially when it came to dealing with his obnoxious parents. I was happy that ultimately things worked out for them after all the heartbreak, deception and tears.
I voluntarily read this book in exchange for my honest opinion.
I voluntarily read this book in exchange for my honest opinion.
August 6, 2018
This is my first book by this author and I have to say I really enjoyed it. It is well developed and quite emotional. I did find Adrian to be a bit annoying sometimes and under the thumb of his mother. Leah was the love of his life but he chose to leave her behind because of his mothers deceit. Due to this Leah had to go through a huge loss alone and with no support.
It really is a bit of a rollercoaster ride but well worth reading.
It really is a bit of a rollercoaster ride but well worth reading.
September 4, 2018
This was a full rollercoaster of emotions. Adrian and Leah met in college. They had a love that went deep, soul mates. Unfortunately, things that happen when your young and immature along with outside forces don't last. Forward 12 years, Adrian has been voted a most eligible bachelor. Leah a journalist has too write the story. Both still have never forgot each other. Sometimes even with those same outside forces things can work out the second time.
August 10, 2018
This was another fantastic story by this author. Leah and Adrian took me on an emotional rollercoaster and I didn't want to put it down. The story was well written and kept my attention. I did want to slap Adrian a few times but I still thought he and Leah made a great pair. If you're a fan of second chance romance storylines I would recommend reading this one.
*I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book. This is my honest review.*
*I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book. This is my honest review.*
August 13, 2018
Another incredible story by this author! In Don’t Blame Me we have a second chance at love story. Things didn’t end so well for our H/h when they were younger, but now that they both have life experiences and are older can they get past what happened.
I really love reading these second chance books, they are one of my favorites.
I voluntarily reviewed this Advanced Readers Copy of this book
I really love reading these second chance books, they are one of my favorites.
I voluntarily reviewed this Advanced Readers Copy of this book
November 14, 2018
Don't blame Adrian and Leah
I really really love this book. It had everything I love in a book fighting (arguments) the make up conflict of race. I dislike when ppl review a book and tell the whole story. Let's just say this book really good and I truly recommend this book. The only issue it only had few grammar edit.
I really really love this book. It had everything I love in a book fighting (arguments) the make up conflict of race. I dislike when ppl review a book and tell the whole story. Let's just say this book really good and I truly recommend this book. The only issue it only had few grammar edit.
July 31, 2018
i really liked the book! she has found the one true love . only to have him ripe her heart out. now years later he is back. she has changed and he is still single. now she must choose if she wants to give him another chance.
August 1, 2018
I LOVE it ++++++++ Love works in mysterious ways. The ups the down the journey prepare yourself for rollercoaster ride!
August 11, 2018
I was given this arc in exchange for an honest review. Great second chance story. Loved the ending. Thanks for the opportunity to read it first !
August 25, 2018
Adrian and Leah meet in college and have a love affair that was quickly broken up by disapproving parents. They meet twelve years later when Leah is asked to do an interview of Adrian for the magazine for which she works. They quickly realize that despite the hurt those initial events caused, deep feelings still remain. They have will have to navigate family disapproval and old hurts to find their happy ending.
I think this book simply was not for me as it hit most if not all of plot points or tropes that irritate me in romance. 1) There was virtually no physical description of the female MC beyond a mention of cat eyes, brown hair, and "WOC". For me, these vague descriptions keep the audience from appreciating the depth and richness that diverse characters with different background can bring to a story. However, we did learn about the cultural heritage of the male MC, albeit well into the story. I read multicultural romance because I like to read about how different women find love. I felt cheated not knowing Leah's race or ethnicity.
2) I also did not quite believe the protagonists were in love and not in lust as the author gave little time for those feelings to realistically develop. I guess I like the slow build but the rushed nature of the initial encounter in college made it that much harder to believe that those feelings lingered some twelve years into the future. I also wish the author created a more realistic scenario for why Adrian and Leah initially broke up. While parents intervening makes sense, how the break up unfolded felt awkward and rushed.
3) Finally, I felt this book would have benefited from a good editor who have spotted a number of words being used incorrectly and several instances of awkward phrasing that ended up pulling me out of the story. Overall, I liked that both Adrian and Leah were not white but, and I am guessing here in terms of Leah, from different races/ethnicities. Sometimes in interracial romances we still tend to center whiteness and this story was a refreshing move away from that.
I think this book simply was not for me as it hit most if not all of plot points or tropes that irritate me in romance. 1) There was virtually no physical description of the female MC beyond a mention of cat eyes, brown hair, and "WOC". For me, these vague descriptions keep the audience from appreciating the depth and richness that diverse characters with different background can bring to a story. However, we did learn about the cultural heritage of the male MC, albeit well into the story. I read multicultural romance because I like to read about how different women find love. I felt cheated not knowing Leah's race or ethnicity.
2) I also did not quite believe the protagonists were in love and not in lust as the author gave little time for those feelings to realistically develop. I guess I like the slow build but the rushed nature of the initial encounter in college made it that much harder to believe that those feelings lingered some twelve years into the future. I also wish the author created a more realistic scenario for why Adrian and Leah initially broke up. While parents intervening makes sense, how the break up unfolded felt awkward and rushed.
3) Finally, I felt this book would have benefited from a good editor who have spotted a number of words being used incorrectly and several instances of awkward phrasing that ended up pulling me out of the story. Overall, I liked that both Adrian and Leah were not white but, and I am guessing here in terms of Leah, from different races/ethnicities. Sometimes in interracial romances we still tend to center whiteness and this story was a refreshing move away from that.
November 10, 2018
Pretty decent read
Pretty decent read. I appreciate how well developed the storyline was, just wish that we could've seen more of Tommy and Marcy intertwined in the storyline during the transition of the present Leah and Adrian. I would have like to see more remorse for the action of Adrian's parents but understand the reality that there are parents like this in real life.
Pretty decent read. I appreciate how well developed the storyline was, just wish that we could've seen more of Tommy and Marcy intertwined in the storyline during the transition of the present Leah and Adrian. I would have like to see more remorse for the action of Adrian's parents but understand the reality that there are parents like this in real life.
October 21, 2018
Wonderful
I truly enjoyed my first read for this author and I will definitely be checking out her other works. The chemistry between the characters was hot. I wanted to kick the father in the teeth and also mom. I loved the progression of the story and enjoyed it immensely.
I truly enjoyed my first read for this author and I will definitely be checking out her other works. The chemistry between the characters was hot. I wanted to kick the father in the teeth and also mom. I loved the progression of the story and enjoyed it immensely.
June 7, 2021
Second chances
This story is about a young love that was doomed early on. As fare would have it, they have a second chance. The obstacles are still there and painful truths need to be told.
This story is about a young love that was doomed early on. As fare would have it, they have a second chance. The obstacles are still there and painful truths need to be told.
November 29, 2018
It started off good.
The story has potential, I just couldn’t finish it with the trip back down memory lane and the mental redlining.
The story has potential, I just couldn’t finish it with the trip back down memory lane and the mental redlining.
July 28, 2019
Don't Blame Me by Kay Blake was my book club's July read for the main reading list. Before I could even read the book I had to listen to Don't Blame Me by Taylor Swift as it was part inspiration for this book. This is Kay's first full novel although she has many novella's. This is my first read by this independent author but certainly will not be my last.
As far as the brief synopsis, fate has brought college sweethearts back together after a terrible and emotional break-up. Despite the break-up Leah followed the career path she set out on despite what her mother may have wished for her. She did carry the weight of the break-up several years later. Now Adrain, he wasn't so fortunate to follow his original career path but remained quite successful. The question is will he correct one of the biggest relationship mistakes he ever made? And will Leah allow him to? Of course, I want you to read and find out on your own.
Now what spoke to my soul: Growth is a necessary part of life. All experiences, good and bad, help define your core person. It's up to you how you allow life to shape you. You can get knocked down and stay there. Or you can get up, dust yourself off, and keep it moving. Through it all you must address your feelings, ignoring them is counterproductive . The actions from the experience isn't what determines the effects of such actions, but is your FEELINGS about those actions. Your feelings determine if you remain stagnate or proceed on course regardless of the newly created detours. Once we understand this, true progress will come much easier. The path of least resistance isn't always better. Without obstacles in life, we would not know how much fortitude we possess.
The next idea that spoke to my soul is not to allow others, even parents, serve as a distraction or full roadblock to your happiness. Often looking from the outside in, people just don't get it. But remember it is not for them to get. It's your life. Advice is welcomed and accepted, but let it be on your terms. Don't let others' life experiences and baggage prevent you for going for what you know to be your calling. Listen to the energies you feel, they certainly will direct you on the right course.
The most interesting part of Blake's novel was it came with a full musical playlist. It's awesome when author's share how their baby became a reality. I thank Kay for sharing that with us. No disappointment in this read.
Tracey Robinson
Words For The Soul Book Club
As far as the brief synopsis, fate has brought college sweethearts back together after a terrible and emotional break-up. Despite the break-up Leah followed the career path she set out on despite what her mother may have wished for her. She did carry the weight of the break-up several years later. Now Adrain, he wasn't so fortunate to follow his original career path but remained quite successful. The question is will he correct one of the biggest relationship mistakes he ever made? And will Leah allow him to? Of course, I want you to read and find out on your own.
Now what spoke to my soul: Growth is a necessary part of life. All experiences, good and bad, help define your core person. It's up to you how you allow life to shape you. You can get knocked down and stay there. Or you can get up, dust yourself off, and keep it moving. Through it all you must address your feelings, ignoring them is counterproductive . The actions from the experience isn't what determines the effects of such actions, but is your FEELINGS about those actions. Your feelings determine if you remain stagnate or proceed on course regardless of the newly created detours. Once we understand this, true progress will come much easier. The path of least resistance isn't always better. Without obstacles in life, we would not know how much fortitude we possess.
The next idea that spoke to my soul is not to allow others, even parents, serve as a distraction or full roadblock to your happiness. Often looking from the outside in, people just don't get it. But remember it is not for them to get. It's your life. Advice is welcomed and accepted, but let it be on your terms. Don't let others' life experiences and baggage prevent you for going for what you know to be your calling. Listen to the energies you feel, they certainly will direct you on the right course.
The most interesting part of Blake's novel was it came with a full musical playlist. It's awesome when author's share how their baby became a reality. I thank Kay for sharing that with us. No disappointment in this read.
Tracey Robinson
Words For The Soul Book Club
September 8, 2018
Adrian is a former football player turned hotel magnate. Years ago, he met Leah Hunter in college. He didn’t expect to fall for her but true love always finds a way. Unfortunately, their relationship didn’t last too long. Injuries, surprising news, and vengeful people play a part in its demise.
12 years later, Adrian is one of the most sought-after bachelors and Leah is assigned to write the piece on him for her magazine. Now they’re back in each other’s orbit and the love that should have been buried is bubbling up to the surface. However, not everyone is happy with this possible reconnection and heartbreak is almost certain to happen again.
Admittedly, the pacing of the novel kept me from enjoying the novel as much as I could have. Some of the conversations seemed a bit stilted and I felt like there were a lot of parts that moved a bit slow. While I don’t mind a slow burn or reconnection in novels, I don’t think Leah and Adrian had enough chemistry on the page for me to be okay with it.
I wanted to throttle Adrian’s parents. They were vengeful, spiteful, and didn’t want their son to be happy with Leah, even though they knew that’s what he wanted. Luckily, he got his happily ever after despite their attempts.
** I was given a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review **
12 years later, Adrian is one of the most sought-after bachelors and Leah is assigned to write the piece on him for her magazine. Now they’re back in each other’s orbit and the love that should have been buried is bubbling up to the surface. However, not everyone is happy with this possible reconnection and heartbreak is almost certain to happen again.
Admittedly, the pacing of the novel kept me from enjoying the novel as much as I could have. Some of the conversations seemed a bit stilted and I felt like there were a lot of parts that moved a bit slow. While I don’t mind a slow burn or reconnection in novels, I don’t think Leah and Adrian had enough chemistry on the page for me to be okay with it.
I wanted to throttle Adrian’s parents. They were vengeful, spiteful, and didn’t want their son to be happy with Leah, even though they knew that’s what he wanted. Luckily, he got his happily ever after despite their attempts.
** I was given a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review **
August 10, 2018
This was a good second chance story. Adrian and Leah were college sweethearts that saw the future differently. Adrian was concerned about his upcoming career and Leah wanted to make something of herself. Adrian's family drove me insane and I do not wish those in-laws on anyone. The relationship that Adrian's mother had for her son was disturbing but so believable because parents do sometimes do not know when to back off.
Leah sees the realness of what her life could be life if Adrian had stuck around and decides life separately might be the best. I loved the emotion shared from her. Leah is trying to do her best but when Adrian comes back into her life, the feelings are brought to the front.
Second chances are always fun.
Leah sees the realness of what her life could be life if Adrian had stuck around and decides life separately might be the best. I loved the emotion shared from her. Leah is trying to do her best but when Adrian comes back into her life, the feelings are brought to the front.
Second chances are always fun.
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