"I’ve spent my whole life chasing perfection: perfect looks, perfect man, perfect home. But in one brutal moment, I realized it was all just a beautiful lie…"
Carina MacKenzie is fleeing from her past. Picking up the wreckage of her shattered dreams, she seeks comfort in the only place she’s ever felt safe: Beachwood Bay.
Garrett Sawyer isn’t looking to be anyone’s savior. Scarred by old betrayals, he’s sworn never to put his heart on the line again -- especially not for a damaged, high-maintenance girl like Carina. But passion knows no logic, and soon, their reckless chemistry is making him forget his bitter vows.
Two damaged hearts. The hope of true love. As their passion blazes out of control, Carina and Garrett struggle to escape their legacies of hurt. But can you ever outrun the past? And when everything is on the line, can they trust enough to build a love that's unconditional?
*This book contains adult situations and explicit content. 17+*
Overall I really enjoyed this book! I loved how the author revisited the entire gang and how well she portrayed the closeness and friendship dynamic the characters have. Beachwood Bay is high on my “If I could, where I’d like to go for a vacation” list and I’m always excited to read anything that revolves around this town! Unconditional may be my least favorite of the series, but then again, it definitely isn’t easy to write about two characters falling in love who are both broken and scarred by their past.
This book focuses on Carina, Juliet’s sister, and Garrett, Brit’s best friend. Both characters were previously introduced in books 1 and 2, and I was really interested in seeing how the author could concoct a relationship between a seemingly cold ice queen and an outspoken fun guy like Garrett.
Carina is Juliet’s estranged sister and I have to say at first, I did not like her. From the first few books, my impression of her was quite low as she was a terrible sister to Juliet and always took her father’s side on everything, but as a I read on I could tell she felt remorse and wanted to make amends with Juliet. She’s engaged to Alexander, a outwardly handsome, kind, all around perfect guy but she secretly suffers from his physical and verbal abuse, but accepts it all in the name of being perfect on the surface.
“Every relationship is just a transaction, we all have to pay a price. And I was willing to pay to keep this life afloat.”
Besides being perfect though, she also believes she deserves the harsh treatment. Carina harbors some serious guilt over ditching her mom and Juliet in favor of her father, and she thinks she doesn’t deserve true love so she settles for Alexander, who treats her like crap.
After realizing that she truly has nothing worth of value, she finds escape in Beachwood Bay, and there is where she comes face to face with Garrett, local bar owner and Brit’s best friend.
On the outside Garrett is a charming guy who’s know for his one night stands and blasé attitude towards life. He doesn’t want it, but he quickly realizes that Carina gets under his skin like no other; her vulnerability, her feisty, resilient attitude, and her smokin’ hot looks all intrigue him and he can’t help but feel for her, protect her, want her. Carina feels the same way and is the only one to see through him and know that he’s been through something horrific that deeply wounded him in the past.
“And somehow, without even thinking, I know.”
“This man knows loss.”
What really made this story work for me (unlike many others) is that I could tell there was more than lust driving their relationship. Sure, good looks and attraction are always the first factors to play a role, but I always want that extra tidbit, the part that convinces me of the realistic and believable aspect of their relationship that gives it meaning and the author did just that. Because so, I could connect with them individually and as a couple, and their sizzling chemistry is a bonus.
So why not a higher rating then? Despite all the positive attributes of the book, the events at and after 79% really ticked me off and I had the urge to rip Garrett’s balls off and wring Carina’s neck. I’m really not a fan of and I don’t think it should’ve been a part of their story. To me, Garrett became more and more of a quitter as the story progressed and when I really wanted him to man-up to his feelings and take responsibility I was pretty angry at the decision he made for him and Carina. On the other hand, Carina took charge but I was pretty surprised at how quickly she forgave him.
Overall this was a quick and enjoyable read, and if you’re a romantic at heart I think you’ll be really pleased with the ending. I’m personally very interested in the next book in the series, which focuses on the elusive and mysterious Alicia. I have a few hunches about her ;)
ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review. Please note that all quotes are from an advanced copy and may be subject to change in the final edition.
SERIES READING ORDER
Note that Untouched and Untamed Hearts are free novellas that aren't necessary to read but provide extra background info to the book that follows after. ["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>
Unconditional is book three in the Beachwood Bay series and this series keeps getting better and better with each book. Not one single book in this series I haven’t loved. I love the world of Beachwood Bay that Melody Grace has created.
Unconditional is the story of Garrett Sawyer, mysterious bar owner of the local Beachwood dive bar. I first fall in love with Garrett in Unafraid, when he was such a great friend to Brittany. Garrett has been living in Juliet’s old family home, when one night an unexpected guest comes crashing into his kitchen, Carina. Carina Mackenzie, estrange sister to Juliet. Carina is running from the life she always thought she wanted, that was till the man she thought she was going to spend her life with showed his ugly side. The only placed she can think of to hide out is her old family home in Beachwood Bay, what she wasn’t planning on was Garrett Sawyer.
Scarred from his past Garrett doesn’t do relationships, he thinks he isn’t the man anyone could build a future with. Stepping back from the life she was living, Carina is now going to find out who she really is and what she really wants in her life. Together Garrett and Carina might be able to find what they both have been missing in their lives.
I recommend this series to anyone how loves a true love story with steam, romances by the beach, swoon worthy leading men and girls that are not whinny or annoying. This series won’t disappoint. I can’t wait for the next installment, Uninhibited.
ARC kindly provided by author in exchange for an honest review.
Ever since I read the epilogue to Unwrapped and saw Carina and Garrett's first interaction at Juliet and Emerson's wedding, I knew their relationship would be intense. They are complete opposites of one another and come from completely different worlds.... or so we think. It turns out the pair actually has some things in common: the pain of the past. I knew as soon as we met Carina in the first novel of the series that there would be more to her than meets the eye.
I love that this is dual POV, because I just feel I can get a much better read on both of my characters this way. Garrett is already mysterious, so it helped to get inside his head and see what he was thinking. Most of all, I liked reading about how HE saw Carina. He sees beyond the facade she puts up and sees her pain and anguish and understands those things all too well. Garrett is no stranger to pain, but where Carina hides behind her rich, posh lifestyle and wealthy fiance, he hides behind his bar and only using women as a release, never getting attached to any one.
I have to say I wasn't sure if I could like Carina, especially after all we'd learned about her relationship with Juliet. Carina begins the novel with a huge wake up call, after things with her fiance begin to escalate in a not so good way. I am proud of her for having enough sense to walk away from a bad situation before it got worse, despite all her doubts and insecurities. My heart broke for this girl as she has grown up being put down and told what is expected of her. Going back to Beachwood Bay brings so many revelations to light for her and she realizes she wants to mend her tattered relationship with her sister. Juliet holds a lot of resentment towards Carina and theirs is one relationship that cannot be fixed with a simple apology. Carina will have to work hard at building a relationship there if she truly wants one.
Her relationship with her dad on the other hand... oh that man made my blood boil. The things he says to his daughter and how he reacts to her telling him what happened with her ex fiance.... I would have freaked the heck out. He really shows his true colors and Carina is appalled that he would gloss over the cold, hard facts. It's no wonder Carina's self worth is shot to hell. Garrett steps in and ends up being the savior that Carina needs. He is tender and understanding and offers her his shoulder to lean on, knowing she has no one else. He also has this strong urge to protect her, to keep her safe. He believes in her and that is the push she needs to start changing her life and living for HER.
As I said earlier, Garrett and Carina have an intense relationship. They did not get off to a good start at all at the wedding. He thinks she's a stuck up ice queen and she thinks he's just a womanizer. They come to a truce of sorts and he lets her stay in the spare bedroom of Emerson and Juliet's beach house. However, holy chemistry. These two definitely have it! Garrett definitely drove me a little nuts, as he is torn between what he wants (her) and what he knows he should be for her (a friend). Even though he lets Carina in (both physically and mentally), he is still apprehensive about his past. He thinks he's too damaged to truly be what she needs and give her what he wants.
"You fucking consume me, Carina!"
He's running scared. He's afraid of being hurt again, only this time he doesn't know if he would survive it.
We get to see some familiar faces in this book, aside from Juliet and Emerson. Brit and Hunter make an appearance and while I loved Brit in her book Unafraid, I found myself irritated with her in this one. I understand that she has a tough shell and letting people in isn't her forte, but once Carina proved that she wasn't as vapid and awful as she once was, I was expecting Brit to give her a break. Brit is fiercely protective of her loved ones and while I admire that, I kept waiting for her to make peace with Carina.
I was quite surprised by the epilogue of this book, as it gives us a completely new POV of the person that will be in the next book, Uninhibited. I didn't see this coming, but I have to admit I'm definitely interested in these two. Because that epilogue? HAWT.
Overall, I really enjoyed Unconditional and I like that Grace was able to take such a not very well liked character and really peel back her layers to expose her true self. Garrett was the perfect person to balance her out as he understands her on a level others couldn't. As always, I can't wait to see the direction Grace takes the series next!
*Received a copy from InkSlingerPR in exchange for a fair and honest review.*
So by this point, I think it's safe to say Melody Grace's Beachwood Bay series rates pretty up there, along with my other favorite New Adult Series. From the characters, to the idyllic setting, to level of steam & romance; these books just work. It also doesn't hurt that Melody Grace is a superb writer!
"This is where my childhood ended, torn away with the dying breaths of my mother. And this is where I'll be strong enough to start again" - Carina
So after, enjoying Daniel and Lacey's novella, I knew not to judge Melody Grace's choice of main characters. Sure Carina Mackenzie was pretty much Juliet's evil step-sister (nay the step), whom like their father, basically berated and belittled Juliet for her choices in Unbroken. But still...I'm a sucker for a good redemption story, and besides, we've only ever gotten Juliet's side of the story. Who's not to say Carina faced her battles too?
"It's him. This man. This infuriating, irritating, goddamn miracle of a man. It's him." - Carina
Enter Garret Sawyer, Brit's best friend, and now full owner of the bar Emerson used to run. I've always liked Garrett, but it was clear, from Brit's book, that the alleged playboy had his share of secrets too. Getting his book was just icing at this point. Pair that with the fact he's the only one who's called Carina on her shit, and I knew these two would be an interesting match to say the least.
And boy was I right. Carina is definitely not the girl we think we know. Hiding behind a facade of lies and gilded appearances, the girl that arrives at Beachwood late one night, is both fed up, and broken enough, that she believes herself beyond redemption. It doesn't help that the people around her (her father and her fiancee) treat her like dirt. Even Garrett, at the beginning, is weary of Carina's intent. Yet that's the thing I enjoyed most about Garrett, he was the kind of man who knew how to accept his faults. As soon as someone tried to hurt Carina, Garrett's protective instincts kicked in, and he basically became Carina's lifeline, giving her support and the understanding she needed to move forward. And even though the chemistry between these two simmered like crazy, they never rushed into anything; looking first to get beyond each other's walls and insecurities.
Along with the romance, this book also focused on family issues. As we know from the previous books, Carina's relationship with her sister Juliet was almost non-existent; which we learn is something Carina deeply regrets. With Garret's support, it was heartwarming to see how she tries to mend the fences with her sister. It's not say things we're easy, but I loved how that played out. Because with it, Carina learns that the things in life that matter, aren't at all the pretty or materialistic ones; it's love :)
"There's nothing to say, nothing I can do but kiss her again...A kiss of joy, of hope, for the new future we;ll share...A place of love and trust and second chances." - Garrett
All in all, I highly enjoyed this book. Carina and Garrett together we're just yum, and boy, does Garrett know how to do sexy [and everything that comes with it ;)] Watching them work through their issues together only solidified them more as a perfect couple. Melody Grace really has a hold on her characters and their journeys, which makes her stories fun to read. My only complaint was the end of the story. I felt after a certain part, things we're resolved a little too quickly, and I would have liked to see more of Carina and Garrett as a couple after the fact. I also would have liked to see Garrett man up a bit more in terms of dealing with his issues.
That said, at the end of the book, we're presented with the next Beachwood Bay couple...and man, am I ever excited to get my hands on a book. I already love the couple, and can imagine all the deliciously sexy and angsty times that wait up ahead in Uninhibited!
**Complimentary copy provided by author in exchange for blog tour**
~~ 5 "Unconditional Love" Stars ~~
This series just continues to get better and better as the books go along. I have loved this series from Book 1…Untouched. This is book 6 in this series, and what I love is that we still get to see characters from the previous books as well. This book took me a little bit by surprise, because even though I knew who the Hero was, I didn't realize that the heroine was Juliet's sister. I also loved that this book touched on a serious subject. I felt the author handled it well and it was written extremely well. Every book in this series has completely sucked me in and keeps me intrigued all the way to the end. The title of this book truly fits this story. This book was all about loving someone Unconditionally. This was also a story about second chances….in love and in life.
We meet Garrett (Emerson and Brit's BFF) and Carina (Juliet's Sister) throughout books 1 and 2, but we really don't get to know them until this book. I have to say that once I figured out who Carina was, I have to say I didn't like her much in the other books, but my heart broke for her in this book. We find out her secret pretty much right off the bat in Chapter 1. (And what a chapter that one was….this book definitely started off with a bang.) Even though we see what kind of life she has been living, we continue to find out more about her as the book continues. I loved watching her character grow as the book went on. I also loved that she was able to repair past relationships and learned how to open up and express what she is truly feeling. Now Garrett….I loved him. He was so broken. My heart also broke for him once we find out what happened in his past. He was the right mix of hot Alpha and sweet swoon worthy man. I loved his 'dirty' mouth ;) These two together really show you that a person can have a second chance at love and life and that they truly loved each other unconditionally.
Like I said earlier….we get to see all of the other characters from the previous books. It was great catching up with them and seeing what is going on in their lives. We also got to meet the characters for the next book. The epilogue for this book is the set up for the next book and let me tell you it is HOT!!!!! I can't wait for July for the next book in this series.
I would definitely recommend this book/series to anyone who is looking for great love stories and books with just the right amount of drama and sexy time!!!!!
****I was given an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review for Nerd Alert Book Love Blog**** Carina MacKenzie is a high maintenance, self absorbed, ice queen, or is she? After one too many physical fights with her fiance, Alex, Carina finally realizes she is not living the perfect life she has always dreamed of. She does the only thing she can think of now, she flees in the middle of the night. She heads straight for Beachwood Bay, the only real place she has ever felt safe. "...I've spent my whole life chasing perfection: perfect looks, perfect man, perfect home. But in one brutal moment, I realized it was all just a beautiful lie..." Garrett Sawyer is a man of mystery. No one knows anything about his life prior to him coming to Beachwood Bay and that's how he plans on keeping it. He lives his life simple now, running his bar and living by his three strikes your out roll. Never sleeping with the same woman more than 3 times, so there are never any romantic complications. But life's about to change for him when he catches Carina crawling through the kitchen window of the beach house. "...This life didn't just happen to you. You fought to make it happen. You earned it. And I thank God every day that you stumbled into my house in the middle of the night and scared the living day lights out of me..." Things only got harder for Carina when her father shows up in town and wants to physically drag her back to Alex for his own selfish reasons. Now destroyed by the two most important men in her life, Carina finally breaks. Garrett feels the need to protect her and help her put herself back together. But what will happen as the chemistry between Carina and Garrett steadily builds? Can Carina start her life over again? Can she repair what is broken with her sister Juliet? And what will happen that will cause Garrett to snap and reveal his past to Carina? Can these two pick each other up and put the pieces back together or will their pasts destroy it all? I'm sorry but I hated Carina and what she did to her sister Juliet and their mother in the first 2 books. But as her story is being told your heart aches for her and everything she's been through. This is my favorite book in this series so far. I loved Juliet and Emerson's story so much but I can relate to Carina on a whole different level. And Garrett, oh sweet and sexy Garrett, his story is just so heartbreaking and sad and it makes you love him all the more. I absolutely love this series and think Melody Grace is just getting better and better. I gladly give this book a Nerd Alert A++ or 5 stars! July can't come soon enough, I can't wait for Uninhibited!
This is where my childhood ended, torn away with the dying breaths of my mother. And this is where I’ll be strong enough to start again. ***
One slap she can overlook, 2 times it is time to go. Fleeing the comforts and lifestyle she is accustomed to, Carina takes off for the one place left she has to go. The one place that reminds her of her mom. It is also the one place that reminds her of her failures too. Beachwood Bay is full of memories she'd soon just rather forget. But it is time to move on and that means facing her demons and her family. She has a lot of wrongs to right and it is not going to be easy. Especially with Juliet.
Garrett is a 3 strikes and you’re out kind of guy. 3 times is all a girl gets and he makes sure she knows this going in. He can't chance any feelings from taking hold with one these girls. He was sure to nip that in the bud a long time ago. He doesn't do relationships because they can get you in to trouble and leave you hurting. But the minute Carina walks back into his life he feels the shift. He knows there is something about her that he wants to protect. Sure she may be broken, but he is too. The closer she gets the closer she gets to his past. And nobody knows of his past. He is certain it would change everything.
I felt for these two and wanted to wrap my arms around them. Especially Garrett. His story about broke my heart. It did take some warming up to Carina in the beginning though. Her past actions did bring a lot of her current problems on. Well besides getting slapped around. That is absolutely uncalled for. But she does have more issues than just that she has to work through. As for Garrett, I can see why he leads the lifestyle he does. He was hurt something fierce. A definite betrayal of the worst kind. Seeing him work through it though was wonderful. I hated to think that he would let one crushing blow be the end of it for him...to turn any kind of love away a 2nd time would be heartbreaking.
I inhaled the bloody life out of this book. Once I started I couldn't stop and didn't want to. But that is the case with all of Grace's books. I devour them, I love them, and I can't get enough of them. Her Beachwood Bay stories are believable and real. You fall for these characters and make them your friends. And Garrett and Carina are no different. I do believe that UNCONDITIONAL is my favorite of the set so far. I still need to read Brit and Hunter’s books. How I let them slide by I have no idea. Pick up this wonderful read and let Grace's words take you away for a while. You'll be glad you did.
I have to admit, I was a little wary to start this book because I really didn't like Carina (pretty name, tho). But then it's Melody Grace, and I love all the previous books so yea I picked it up.
Unconditional is emotionally draining. Carina is so much more than I thought she was; I think she's probably my favorite character out of all in the series. She's so strong! And it's nice to see a different side of Garrett too; I thought of him as the big brother / comic relief in Hunter and Britt's book, so it's great to see that there are more layers to him.
Garrett x Carina steam factor: yoooooooooo
On top of everything, I love, love, LOVE the parts with Juliet. Carina and Juliet's relationship was damaged, but to see Carina take the first step in trying to mend it makes me love her even more.
Overall this book was alright - not my favorite but not bad by any means. One thing I enjoyed was being able to see the couples from the other books I love when sequels do that so you still get to see peeks of your favs. Carina was like a lost little puppy dog engaged to a HORRIBLE person. I don’t know how women deal with that type of things. I just wanted to give Carina a hug. Garrett is a typical player who at the beginning you cannot really stand and you know he only wants one thing but in reality that is not what happens with Carina. These two just didn’t seem to want to let fate do her thing. Overall pretty good book not my favorite though.
Only Melody Grace could cause me to love a character that I had previously vowed to hate forever. I'm a very character-driven reader. I need to love the characters in order to love the story. I must admit - I had a lot of hesitation before starting Unconditional. Carina seemed to be a vile human being in Unbroken. It was Garrett that caused me to initially want to read this book. He intrigued me and captivated me in Unafraid. I couldn't wait to find out what his story was.
Garrett has vowed to never get involved with a woman again after losing his heart and soul once. That was before Carina breaks into the house he's staying in. Although she's mean and abrasive, there's something about her that intrigues him. Carina is running away from the horrible men in her life. It doesn't take her long to realize that Garrett isn't one of them. Can he get over his past in order to face a potential future with someone who needs him as much as he needs her?
Right away, Melody Grace starts to paint a more human face on Carina. She is Juliet's awful sister, but we very quickly see that there are reasons for her behavior. Carina runs to Beachwood Bay to escape her abusive fiance, and literally falls into Garrett's path. Garrett owns the bar that he and Emerson had initially owned together, and now he's housesitting while Emerson and Juliet are trying to make a life in the city nearby.
Carina really has had a rough go of it. She's learned to put on a brave face and power through all the tough stuff. But, she's reached her breaking point and although it's hard at first, she is ready for something new and different for her life. This in and of itself endeared me to Carina more than I thought possible. It takes a lot of stuff for someone to pull up stakes and give up a life that has become known and comfortable for a life that is unknown. She heads to Beachwood Bay for some clarity and a break from her sad life. Instead, she becomes more confused.
She runs into Garrett right away, and he gives her a reason to stay. After a rough start, she ends up helping him with a problem at his bar. And, he helps her clear out the riff raff from her life. He ends up being the only person Carina has truly opened up to about her insecurities and mistakes. He helps her try to make amends. And, an unforeseen consequence is that she helps him come to grips with what happened in his past.
The thing is, Garrett wasn't ready for that, at all. When he runs from Carina, the real question now is whether she has found enough guts to go after him.
Unconditional was such an emotionally charged book - I loved that about it! The relationship between Garrett and Carina was slow to develop. They really didn't like each other very much in the beginning. Garrett is such an inherently good guy, though, that once he finds out Carina's in trouble, he does what he can to help her. It's almost like he can't help himself. I loved that guy so much.
And, Carina makes more than leaps and bounds. By the end of Unconditional, I loved her as much as Juliet. She had a lot of drama to wade though. She had to end things with her fiance, sever ties with her awful father, and try to make amends with her sister. There were plenty of heartbreaking moments and plenty of nailbiting moments as well. It's told in dual POV, so we get the benefit of both Garrett's and Carina's thoughts as they work through all their crap.
This entire series is so emotional and exciting and utterly romantic. I loved every minute of the time I spent with Garrett and Carina. And, I'm very much looking forward to spending more time in Beachwood Bay.
Two very broken people not looking for love or a relationship and one very magical place to learn to live again. This book was full of super hot passion and strength. Strength the characters didn’t even know they had but were able to discover in Beachwood Bay, together. This book made me smile, made me cringe, yes, even made a few tears fall from my eyes and holy moly, the panty melting moments were just… well… panty melting!
Carina grew up doing the only thing she knew would protect her. But in doing so she lost who she was. It didn’t get better after she was out on her own, gravitating to the same kind of man that required she knew her place. But when things are more than she knows are acceptable, she takes the opportunity to get out of the situation before it has a chance to get any worse. But she has hurt everyone that loves her and really has no one to turn to that night and she finds herself in that house on the beach. No one will look for her there and she can maybe learn to live again.
What she wasn’t expecting was that man-whore Garrett to be living in the house she was trying to escape to. With nowhere else to go and no one else to turn to, Garrett opens the house up and lets here stay there. This house that caused her so much pain in her past may be the beginning of her healing. But Garrett may prove to be too much of distraction. He is hot. I don’t just mean sweet and kind, I mean killer body, amazing looks… yup, he is the complete package. But all Corina really knows of him is the reputation that has preceded him. She knows that he doesn’t do relationships. She knows that he will never be in a relationship. She knows all this, but there is just something about him.
But when Garrett discovers Corina’s secrets a line is crossed. With one kiss, one touch, their lives are about to change forever. But will the internal battle that Garrett is facing be overcome and will they even stand a chance?
I loved these two characters, not because of the tragedies of the past, but because they are fighting similar battles internally even though the causes are so completely different. Garrett didn’t want anyone to know what was in his past, Corina wanted to mend hers. But together it seems as if they both can heal. But the healing process can be terrifying, especially breaking down those walls. Can they do it or will they both just end up hurting each other more in the end?
This book had great character banter and the characters have amazing personalities and the passion they share is just off the charts. I loved it when they were together, I hated it when they were apart and when the book finally ended, I just wanted to start over again.
This book is just another well written story by Melody Grace and it tugged at all of my emotions in just the right way, setting my heart of for failure or repair. It was completely worth every emotion. I was stuck in the pages of this book and I just wanted more and more and more. I highly recommend this book and this series to anyone wanting new friends and new faces and new loves. It is so worth it!
**I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review
Since I began reading New Adult, I have continued to read a number of novels from particular authors. Melody Grace is one such author whose books I gravitate toward when I want to step into the life of captivating and vivacious characters. The sexy spin of the New Adult genre sizzles throughout her latest Beachwood Bay Series book, Unconditional.
Carina McKenzie had dreamt of a perfect future, social status, and family. She planned whom the best man would be and how she would be the perfect supportive wife, but one night those perfect plans fumble and she soon realizes the only solution is to find a new beginning in Beachwood Bay. In her search to find out where to belong, Carina comes face to face with the girl she was and the person she wants to be. She finds more power within herself than she ever thought possible.
I did not expect to be pulled into the life of another Beachwood Bay character I had previously disliked but by the end of chapter one, all my preconceived beliefs about Carina turned to concern, empathy and understanding. Immediately, I wanted her to find a way out and discover who she could be without that perfected facade she had carefully created.
Carina’s role in previous novels in the series made her unlikeable, but in Unconditional, you get to see the real Carina. Once I stepped inside of her life, witnessed her carefully orchestrated wall tumble and burying her alive, all I wanted was to throw her a rope and help her pull free. I admired and adored the spunk, straight talk and strength that carried Carina throughout the book. Once Carina’s practiced perfection is stripped away, she faces her past demons, becomes self-reliant and eventually, falls in love with sexy bar owner, Garrett Sawyer, who has a few demons of his own.
Garrett Sawyer seems an unlikely match for Carina McKenzie; however, their wounds from the past are exactly why they find comfort in each other. Despite their obvious attraction being off the chart, the connection they share never hinders who they are individually. The momentum of this page-turner tugs the reader into their journey.
The author has an innate gift of creating female characters that overcome and persevere throughout the series and Unconditional is no exception. The further I read Carina and Garrett’s story, the more entrenched I became. Garrett’s southern charm and whispering comebacks earn him the “most enduringly sensual bartender of all time” award. Their journey was sensationally composed, authentic and sprinkled with ample sexual tension, in exactly the right places, throughout the book. I turned the pages rapidly, into the early hours of the morning, determined to see their happy-ending. My only regret … I wanted MORE! More scenes where I could fall in love with these two characters, repeatedly. If you have not read Melody Grace’s Beachwood Bay Series, I highly recommend you pick them up! Loved Unconditional!
Unconditional is the newest Melody Grace Beachwood Bay Series installment. And, get ready, because this one is not like any of the others you have read in the series. This one will blow you away. It is an amazing story about an unlikeable character, Carina, who you will soon see through a whole new light. Carina has always have a attitude that she is better than everyone else. She lives in a perfect world, with her perfect job, house, car, boyfriend etc. Then we see that everything is not so perfect after all.
Carina looses her job, is unhappy in her relationship. Turns out, it is not so perfect. Her boyfriend is a selfish jerk, who is verbally and then physically abusive. After realizing her life is not all it is cracked up to be, Carina runs. Not knowing where to go to be alone and reevaluate her life, she runs to her parents old home in Beachwood. Knowing her sister is not there, she figures she will have some time alone. Little does she know that Garrett is now living there. Garrett is the bartender that is working at Emerson's bar. Emerson is now married to Carina's sister. Garett and Carina had the pleasure of meeting at the wedding. But since Carina was engaged and Garrett is somewhat of a man whore, the didn't really hit it off. Garrett sees that Carina is in some sort of trouble and offers her the house to stay. Since she doesn't want to stay with him, she moves into his old apartment above the bar. Carina is craving independence. Garrett being Garrett sees the pain in Carina's eyes and knows she needs a friend right now. More like a shoulder to cry on because Carina really has no one. She and her sister are not close, her mom died and her father is a loser. All her friends were fake and she has no one to blame but herself. These two eventually start to have feelings for one another. Their chemistry is off the charts. But, like everyone else, Garett has how own secrets. He feels like he is no good for relationships. Even though Carina makes him want to change his ways, he is afraid to. When friendship leads to more, neither wants to budge an inch. Both have demons, but they can only hold out for so long. Carina realizes that her feelings have changed from friend to more for Garrett, he runs. He pushes her away and ends things.Afraid of anything serious and a little bit selfish in his part. Carina is surprised with some life changing news, and doesn't know if Garrett can be trusted back in her life.
I love the Beachwood Bay series. I love all the one Melody Grace has written. I think each one is great in their own way. While this one handles a heavier topic, it was still an enjoyable read, I may have shed a few tears, but totally worth it!!
There is something about the small community of Beachwood Bay! Tranquil, peaceful, a place of memories and where broken souls can mend. This is Melody Grace’s sixth book in her Beachwood Bay series and once again her characters find themselves in the one place where they can put all the pieces of their lives back together.
When you have spent your entire trying to be the perfect daughter, girlfriend and at the same time excel in your chosen profession, you can lose the person that you really are. Always trying to prove her worthiness and to acquire the lifestyle that she thought would bring her happiness, Carina McKenzie had lost sight of the things that really matter. When her fiancé becomes abusive she finds the strength to leave and to take a good look at the woman she has become. She finds herself at Beachwood Bay, a place she had spent summers with her family.
The disappointments from his past, keep Garrett Sawyer from any lasting relationship. He is up front and clear that all he can give is one night, three at the most and then he walks. That is until he meets a woman that turns him inside out with just a look. The air sizzles with the explosive chemistry between them. Can he put the past behind him and grab the future standing right in front of him? Carina is damaged and Garrett finds he needs to comfort her and protect her from the hurt in her past.
This is the story of two people that find redemption and love in Beachwood Bay.
Would I recommend this book: Yes! Fated love is real in this remarkable story about to damaged souls that were meant to find each other. It is filled with hot sex and eventually a HEA.
Would I recommend this author: Yes! Melody Grace writes from the heart. Her characters are real and become your friend by the end of the book. Each story has a unique viewpoint of love and forever soulmates.
***Received an ARC of this book from the Author in exchange for an honest review***
WOW!! Ever since I found out that this book was going to be about Garrett and Carina (didn't see that coming) I was hella excited!! I couldn't wait to see how their relationship turned out to be. I will try my best to describe how much I loved this book. Oh and guys, so far this is my favorite one in the series!!
If you have read the previous books then you will know that Carina is not a likeable person. She comes off as cold, mean and rude. But I've got to say that once I got to know her I really liked her. Unconditional begins with Carina having a wake up call and asking herself if the life that she has is the one that she wants and if the person she is is who she wants to be. She decides to go to Beachwood Bay to get her life together and hopefully find herself. When you get to know her better you see that Carina is very insecure and has many doubts, its interesting to see how much this affects her and how much she battles with this. She also has to fix things with the people she has hurt. Especially with her sister, Juliet. We get to see her relationship with Juliet change. And not only do we get to see Juliet again but also Emerson, Brit, and Hunter!
Garrett is one freaking sexy man. GOD. He too battles with a past and memories that keep him up at night. He doesn't do relationships and commitment. I love that he understands and helps Carina. He knows her. He's a hero and he will always keep her safe. Gah! I love him so much!
The chemistry and the delicious tension. Their relationship is so intense and passionate. Every scene whether sexy, sweet, or them simply having a conversation was too much. Too much amazing! Wonderful things happened guys.
Now the epilogue. Now THAT'S a wait to meet someone. Lol. I have a feeling I'm going to love the next characters. I CAN'T wait to see how that relationship turns out!
Like I said, my favorite one in the series so far! I read this book in one sitting. I. Just. Couldn't. Stop. This book was amazing and it had everything I've come to expect from a novel by Melody Grace. I highly recommend this book!
Note: A copy was provided by InkSlinger PR and the author in exchange of a fair and honest review.
I absolutely LOVE this series! All the characters are so fantastically written, and each couple has there issues and flaws and although I know to expect an HEA it’s the road that ends there that is just so freakin good EVERY SINGLE TIME!
The Story:
This is Carina and Garrett’s story and of all the books in this series this one broke my heart the most, Garrett has been in the past books and he always seemed like sucha sweetheart, but his story? OMG heartbreaking! But Garrett and Carina are just so cute and perfect for each other then I knew they would have a great HEA, so although I spent a few pages crying I was super happy with how it all played out.
The Characters:
Carina is Juliet’s sister… we have heard her name a few times but other then an appearance at Juliet and Emmerson’s wedding she was an unknown. What we did know that was that she was basically a stuck-up snob (I totally held back from saying curse words here) so although she may start out that way she was really just a broken woman who needed help to find the courage to be who she wanted to be. So she wasn’t really a stuck up B, she was a strong women who finally stood up for herself *Claps* way to go Carina!
Garrett, each book he seemed to play a a bigger and bigger role in the lives of the couple who’s story we were living. He was the fun guy, the playboy, but always there for his friends… Unconditional tells us his story, how he became what he was… and as I said above OMG poor guy. He was definitely broken, but when push comes to shove he knew where he needed to be and who he needed to be with.
Final Thoughts:
Another fantastic book in the Beachwood Bay series, this may be my favorite so far. I think the best part about this series though is that the epilogue always leads us into who the next book is going to be about and I am SO excited for the next couple, I mean a girl who had her heart broken by someone she still sees on a regular basis… and a rock star with serious issues? YES PLEASE!
Love this series so much. Heart breaking how spirits are crushed at such a young age and it takes a lifetime to out them back together Cannot wait for Dex's story
I love this series, it never fails to make you care about the characters even if they initially appear as evil incarnate :)
We’ve heard quite a bit about both Carina and Garrett in the previous books, especially the strained relationship between Carina and her sister Juliet. At first it is quite easy to believe that Carina is the shallow, gold digging airhead that she portrays; until you start to get inside her head. The way in which her childhood has shaped her actions is poignantly portrayed. The emotionally abusive patriarch that is Juliet and Carina’s father has had a deep seated effect on her psyche. Carina developed a persona that allowed her to escape the blunt end of his criticism while internally flogging herself for it. As with any long term role it is difficult to separate the real person from the pretend and that is where Carina is at the start of the book.
The portrayal of past incidents and the effect it has on young lives is quite heart-breaking yet Unconditional proves that it is never to late to make a fresh start and become the person you are truly intended to be. Bridges can be mended with the right care and attention.
The inclusion of the previous characters and the progression of their stories alongside the main plot always adds that extra something special to the narrative.
While Unconditional is told in dual narrative, the focus is on Carina. Garrett’s input adds depth of emotion to the plot while providing insight and understanding to not only his actions but his whole character.
Melody is exceptionally clever at the way in which she has progressed the plot at the end of the book in such a way as to set up the start of the next book in the series. I for one am chomping at the bit in order to get more of Dex.
**ARC provided by the author for an honest review**
First off, I really enjoy Melody's books. I love the Beachwood Bay series, I find them enjoyable, intoxicating, and addicting. This book was no different. I loved the new side of Carina. It was so different to see her vulnerable. The first have of the book seemed.. Wordy. It seemed that they barely spoke words, we just seemed to read what she felt and her thoughts. I felt like they need more conversations.
The second half was the best, I felt like it really picked up. I wanted to smack Garrett around some, but he had his own dark secrets on why he is the way he is. Garrett and Carina really seemed to elevate each other, and be perfect for one another. Carina seemed like the ultimate ice queen in the first book, but she has many layers that we just needed to see. I fell in love with couple! The book was definitely more "angry" than the others, more dark and full and angst. Melody done a fabulous job describing the characters.
Of course, you'll see some appearances from Juliet, Emerson, Brittany, & Hunter. I loved that and glad they are doing well. You'll have to read to find out how Carina and Juliet handled being in the same town that took something from them both.
Overall, I wish the book would have lasted longer to see their relationship play out but that's just me being selfish. I can't wait to find out more about Alecia. Check this out, she doesn't disappoint!
****ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review****
WOW!!!! Can I move to Beachwood Bay and start over with Garrett too???
I loath Carina in Unbroken, her holier-than-tho attitude and disregard for her sister Juliet was disgusting. So I was a little apprehensive when I discovered Ms. Grace giving her, her own book and was wondering who the lead would be. Boy, was I shocked to find Garrett!!! But Ms Grace did not disappoint, I loved how she developed Carina's character back story and growth. After a few page turners I was heartbroken for her and with her. But was proud of her strong will to not be a self-prisoner. I loved Garrett's character from "Unbroken" and loved him even more in this book. *****swoon***** When he finally shared his personal hell with Carina, my god I wanted to bet the shit out of the ex for him (trust me you'll feel the same). A few characters made appearances in this book. If you haven't read "Unbroken and UnAfraid" then some of these characters will be a mystery and so is the back story on JayBird the posh new restaurant name. So get the books, catch up on all the characters and be ready for the next FIRE works in July in Beachwood Bay!
Unconditional is the first book I have read by Melody Grace and it was such a great book that it won’t be my last. I was hooked from the first page and had a hard time putting it down (demanding kids made me though :) ). Both Carina and Garrett had pasts that they were trying to forget. Carina was trying to move on from that past and make a better future for herself. Garrett, on the other hand, was trying to never let the past repeat itself. They helped each other in different ways in almost all aspects of their lives. Their story was touching and sexy and I enjoyed reading it. I liked the pace of the book, it didn’t dwell on unnecessary things but it wasn’t too rushed either. Since it was my first Melody Grace book, I obviously haven’t read the other books in the series, but it wasn’t really necessary. I could follow along without any problems, though I do plan on picking up the other books because I enjoyed Brit and Hunter as well as Juliet and Emerson. It was a great, quick read for me and I would recommend it to anyone looking for a touching/sexy book.
Another amazing story by Melody Grace, the Beachwood Bay books never get old or repetitive. I loved that this was not only the story of Garrett and Carina, it was also the story of Garrett become a better man and Carina finding her voice.
Carina wants perfection; however, once she has it, she starts to question everything in her life. She soon realizes that perfection isn't all that its cracked up to be and escapes to the one sanctuary that she knows of, Beachwood Bay. However, upon arrival she immediately encounters Garrett and we all know that there is tension thick as pea soup laying between them. They butt heads, there personalities are so similar and they don't even realize it. Eventually their broken hearts form a whole and they are able to find a sanctuary in each other.
If you enjoy yelling at your characters through your Kindle, giggling at silly moments, and tearing up at happy endings, this a must read for you!
I enjoy this series and I couldn't wait to see how this one would go, I was not disappointed !! This was so touching in different then the others. This touch issues that are around us and I want spoil the plot, but this is a must read, I cried and enjoyed this as much as the rest of the series. I can't wait to see were our author leads us in the great series of Beachwood Bay. All I know is I will follow. I just love the writing and enjoy the characters that seem so real, to me that is the best. I read too many were the characters don't seem real and too fake to make story feel make believe. Her characters are flawed and not perfect, that's life an believable to me. Thanks for great series can't wait for next !!
If I think that Hunter and Brit's story is awesome, this book is definitely the awesomest!
I loved Garett in this book. He's certainly matured fast and in a good way. He's not a playboy anymore, he's even sweet and caring. Dang! What's not to like?
To sum it up, I loved it so much it hurts! I loved Garett's insecurity, I loved Carina's confrontation with Juliet, I loved their conversations even inside ones. I loved everything and the angst.. Oh boy. I want more.
Can't wait to read the side-novel (if there's more) and Dex's story! :)
took me a day to read this book. I didnt think id ever like carina, by I really do. so many times reading this book I had to wipe aways tears. they beared their souls to each other. had amazing back ground stories. and was really brilliant with carina and juliet. I absolutely love getting snippets of other couples in along with eavh new book. waiting on brits and hunters wedding. brilliant series. #loveit ♥ but please can we see a wee bit more of lacey and daniel.
I can't get enough of Melody Grace! Her writing style is so descriptive and so detailed - you feel every emotion, every feeling that the characters are feeling. This book was NO exception! Finally, you find out why Garrett is such a man-whore ;) and why Carina is such a frigged bitch ;). But their chemistry and passion is unbelievable! This book made me want to throw my Nook across the room on more than one occasion but then the fear set in that something would probably happen to it and I wouldn't be able to finish the story. Well done, Melody! I can't wait for Dex & Alicia!
I have to say that I am a huge fan of all the books in the Beachwood Bay series, but this one is officially my favorite! Garrett and Carina's story was so intense and emotionally raw! They both have gone through so much that it leaves them feeling guarded toward one another in the beginning, but once those walls come down, the emotions are so real! I loved seeing this side of Garrett and learning his story! This is a must read. Melody Grace has done it again!
I absolutely LOVED this book!!! Unconditional had me hooked from the very first page! The chemistry between Garrett and Carina is smoldering hot! They both try to deny it, but that doesn't last long. This is a MUST read for Beachwood Bay fans!! Melody Grace does not disappoint!! I can't wait for the next book to be released!!!!