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Nucci Securities #1
Finding Us
She's beautiful, talented, and incredibly frustrating....
Bodyguard Danny Nucci will do anything to keep gorgeous pop star Abby Murphy safe--even if it means turning off his desire for the talented vocalist. After all, Danny's career is on the line, and now is not the time to jeopardize that. But when Abby's ex-boyfriend turns into a vicious adversary, Danny's forced to take matters into his own hands.
He's strong, determined, and unbelievably rugged....
Musical sensation Abby is ready for some freedom and independence. Leaving her cheating ex-boyfriend in the past is her top priority. The only problem: he's their guitarist. And he's not going down without a fight. Suddenly, Abby's in more danger than she ever imagined. Turning to her sexy bodyguard is her only option to let go of the past once and for all. But can a broken bodyguard with demons of his own find a future with an international star?
Bodyguard Danny Nucci will do anything to keep gorgeous pop star Abby Murphy safe--even if it means turning off his desire for the talented vocalist. After all, Danny's career is on the line, and now is not the time to jeopardize that. But when Abby's ex-boyfriend turns into a vicious adversary, Danny's forced to take matters into his own hands.
He's strong, determined, and unbelievably rugged....
Musical sensation Abby is ready for some freedom and independence. Leaving her cheating ex-boyfriend in the past is her top priority. The only problem: he's their guitarist. And he's not going down without a fight. Suddenly, Abby's in more danger than she ever imagined. Turning to her sexy bodyguard is her only option to let go of the past once and for all. But can a broken bodyguard with demons of his own find a future with an international star?
ebook
First published July 31, 2015
About the author
Debra Presley
8 books908 followersDebra is a USA Today Bestselling author and native New Yorker who made her escape to the suburbs. She often visits her hometown to visit her favorite deli for a bagel with butter, because there’s no better bagel than a New York bagel. When not in search of bagels, Debra spends her time running Buoni Amici Press with Drue Hoffman, a PR company for traditionally and independently published authors. She’s also the owner of The Book Enthusiast blog.
She started writing lyrics in her wall-to-wall NKOTB bedroom at the tender age of thirteen while dreaming of the day she’d become Mrs. Jordan Knight. That dream never came to fruition, but she has continued to write. Now she’s working on her first novel.
For rights and publicity contact Stephanie Phillips at SBR Media:Stephanie@sbrmedia.com
She started writing lyrics in her wall-to-wall NKOTB bedroom at the tender age of thirteen while dreaming of the day she’d become Mrs. Jordan Knight. That dream never came to fruition, but she has continued to write. Now she’s working on her first novel.
For rights and publicity contact Stephanie Phillips at SBR Media:Stephanie@sbrmedia.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 114 reviews
June 22, 2021
Now LIVE and you can read for FREE on Kindle Unlimited!
Meet pop star Abby Murphy and her hot and protective bodyguard Danny Nucci!
Amazon US: http://amzn.to/1COOYnY
Amazon UK: http://amzn.to/1flMTF6
Amazon CA: http://amzn.to/1JfnetK
What bloggers are saying:
"This is a must read of 2015! It’s been a long time since I read a book that was a unquestionable 5 stars for me. This book was it though." 5 Stars form author Mari Brown
"Debra Presley’s novel, Finding Us (Nucci Securities #1), does a magnificent job writing a captivating story that will have you feel as if you are on an emotional roller coaster of COMPASSION, SADNESS, ANGER, DISTRUST, DECEPTION, LUST, JEALOUSY, FRIENDSHIP, SUSPENSE, and LOVE." ~ 5 Stars Just Booked
"Finding Us is a very well written and engaging book. The story line was easy to follow and believable. The characters come alive and you can't help but connect with them. Which is something that speaks volumes from an author, especially with a debut book." 5 STARS from Romance Bytes
"This book sucked me in from the very first page and kept me reading until the very end. I couldn't believe that I finished the entire thing in less than one day. I just couldn't put it down. Everything just flowed so perfectly that I didn't want the story to end." ~ 5 Stars from Jodi's WINE List Reviews
"..let me tell you, she knocked it out of the park. This book was really good and had a great storyline. The book flowed easily and I wanted so much more when it ended." 5 Stars from Renee Entress's Blog
"This was my foray into the Rockstar Romance genre and I have to say it was a excellent way to try out a new genre! This story has everything, romance, suspense, comic relief moments, self-discovery and an empowered heroine. All of my favorite things!" ~ 5 Stars from Pretty Little Book Blog
"Debra wrote such a story. She had me on the edge of my seat the whole time I was reading trying to figure out what was going to happen next...Debra outdid herself for her debut book. I'm really excited to see what she's going to write next!" 5 Stars from Mommy's Late Night Book Ups
"Debra's debut novel will blow you out the water. The edge and sass that each character gives will make you wonder where Debra came up with this story." 5 Stars from MI Bookshelf
"Well Done! A story that flows well from first page to last with a great deal of humor and tension interspersed throughout. This will leave you wanting to keep reading, regardless of what is happening around you." 5 Stars from My Favorite Things
"This one in particular feels like Debra Presley has been writing forever. I can’t honestly believe it’s her first novel.... I really enjoyed the flair of the writing, it was fresh and easy yet wasn’t too shallow, if you get what I mean. The author built her characters and plot extremely well, descriptively it was good and Debra gave the reader some fantastic imagery." ~ 4.5 Star form Klaire's Kollection
"This is a very impressive debut novel, one that I quickly got pulled into and didn't want to put down....Overall this is a really entertaining and enjoyable story, I'm looking forward to the next book in the series!" 4.5 My Boo Filled Life
"This was a well written book and I was caught up in this story from the very beginning." ~ 4.5 Star review from Reading Drinking and Relaxing
"Well developed characters, a plot that flows through the entire book and a physical attraction between Abby and Danny will keep you entertained until the end." 4 STARS from Rustys Reading
"Everything from the characters to the plot line was written to absolute perfection. The characters were described beautifully and the plot line was dynamic and detailed." 4 STARS from Romance Obsessed Book Blog
"I can't believe this is her debut novel." ~ 4 Stars from Page Turners Book Blog
Meet pop star Abby Murphy and her hot and protective bodyguard Danny Nucci!
Amazon US: http://amzn.to/1COOYnY
Amazon UK: http://amzn.to/1flMTF6
Amazon CA: http://amzn.to/1JfnetK
What bloggers are saying:
"This is a must read of 2015! It’s been a long time since I read a book that was a unquestionable 5 stars for me. This book was it though." 5 Stars form author Mari Brown
"Debra Presley’s novel, Finding Us (Nucci Securities #1), does a magnificent job writing a captivating story that will have you feel as if you are on an emotional roller coaster of COMPASSION, SADNESS, ANGER, DISTRUST, DECEPTION, LUST, JEALOUSY, FRIENDSHIP, SUSPENSE, and LOVE." ~ 5 Stars Just Booked
"Finding Us is a very well written and engaging book. The story line was easy to follow and believable. The characters come alive and you can't help but connect with them. Which is something that speaks volumes from an author, especially with a debut book." 5 STARS from Romance Bytes
"This book sucked me in from the very first page and kept me reading until the very end. I couldn't believe that I finished the entire thing in less than one day. I just couldn't put it down. Everything just flowed so perfectly that I didn't want the story to end." ~ 5 Stars from Jodi's WINE List Reviews
"..let me tell you, she knocked it out of the park. This book was really good and had a great storyline. The book flowed easily and I wanted so much more when it ended." 5 Stars from Renee Entress's Blog
"This was my foray into the Rockstar Romance genre and I have to say it was a excellent way to try out a new genre! This story has everything, romance, suspense, comic relief moments, self-discovery and an empowered heroine. All of my favorite things!" ~ 5 Stars from Pretty Little Book Blog
"Debra wrote such a story. She had me on the edge of my seat the whole time I was reading trying to figure out what was going to happen next...Debra outdid herself for her debut book. I'm really excited to see what she's going to write next!" 5 Stars from Mommy's Late Night Book Ups
"Debra's debut novel will blow you out the water. The edge and sass that each character gives will make you wonder where Debra came up with this story." 5 Stars from MI Bookshelf
"Well Done! A story that flows well from first page to last with a great deal of humor and tension interspersed throughout. This will leave you wanting to keep reading, regardless of what is happening around you." 5 Stars from My Favorite Things
"This one in particular feels like Debra Presley has been writing forever. I can’t honestly believe it’s her first novel.... I really enjoyed the flair of the writing, it was fresh and easy yet wasn’t too shallow, if you get what I mean. The author built her characters and plot extremely well, descriptively it was good and Debra gave the reader some fantastic imagery." ~ 4.5 Star form Klaire's Kollection
"This is a very impressive debut novel, one that I quickly got pulled into and didn't want to put down....Overall this is a really entertaining and enjoyable story, I'm looking forward to the next book in the series!" 4.5 My Boo Filled Life
"This was a well written book and I was caught up in this story from the very beginning." ~ 4.5 Star review from Reading Drinking and Relaxing
"Well developed characters, a plot that flows through the entire book and a physical attraction between Abby and Danny will keep you entertained until the end." 4 STARS from Rustys Reading
"Everything from the characters to the plot line was written to absolute perfection. The characters were described beautifully and the plot line was dynamic and detailed." 4 STARS from Romance Obsessed Book Blog
"I can't believe this is her debut novel." ~ 4 Stars from Page Turners Book Blog
August 7, 2015
4 cranky guitars for this rockstar romance.
Abby has been raised to be a star, her mother has insisted on nothing less. Her mother is the ultimate stage mom, and certainly more about the almighty dollar and fame than she is about her daughter's well being. Thank goodness Abby has the talent to fulfill all of her mom's dreams!
Mom has also decided Sean is the perfect boyfriend for Abby, and the perfect guitarist for her band. Abby isn't happy that Sean is a total manwhore stereotypical rockstar? Too bad, mom tells her she needs to tough it out. Without going into spoiler territory, Mom and Sean both have much more terrifying behaviors for Abby to worry about.
Thank goodness Abby has a couple of people truly on her side, her assistant Sophie, and one of her bodyguards, Danny. Mommie Dearest and Sean may not be thrilled but this, particularly with Danny, but they are the only hope Abby has of keeping her sanity. And maybe Abby has a tiny little crush on Danny. But he is paid to care about her, right?
The fallout when she steps up to Sean is a pretty good thrill ride. Standing up to Mommies Dearest was necessary without a doubt, but in my opinion could have been a bit more dramatic (I am cranky, remember?)
The aftermath may be a bit predictable (and I may be a bit jaded) but it pulls off a pretty decent HEA romance, with some good steamy bits thrown in as well - those make it recommended for mature audiences only.
Abby has been raised to be a star, her mother has insisted on nothing less. Her mother is the ultimate stage mom, and certainly more about the almighty dollar and fame than she is about her daughter's well being. Thank goodness Abby has the talent to fulfill all of her mom's dreams!
Mom has also decided Sean is the perfect boyfriend for Abby, and the perfect guitarist for her band. Abby isn't happy that Sean is a total manwhore stereotypical rockstar? Too bad, mom tells her she needs to tough it out. Without going into spoiler territory, Mom and Sean both have much more terrifying behaviors for Abby to worry about.
Thank goodness Abby has a couple of people truly on her side, her assistant Sophie, and one of her bodyguards, Danny. Mommie Dearest and Sean may not be thrilled but this, particularly with Danny, but they are the only hope Abby has of keeping her sanity. And maybe Abby has a tiny little crush on Danny. But he is paid to care about her, right?
The fallout when she steps up to Sean is a pretty good thrill ride. Standing up to Mommies Dearest was necessary without a doubt, but in my opinion could have been a bit more dramatic (I am cranky, remember?)
The aftermath may be a bit predictable (and I may be a bit jaded) but it pulls off a pretty decent HEA romance, with some good steamy bits thrown in as well - those make it recommended for mature audiences only.
August 12, 2015
ARC received for review
3.5 stars
This is a romantic suspense novel. The first 70% was almost all suspense with a little she thinks he likes her and he likes her but she's a client. Then the last 30% was syrupy sweet romance. The bad guy stated out pretty smart, and then was a total bonehead. Overall not a bad read, plus a lot of hot Nucci Security guys and friends introduced. I look forward to the next book.
3.5 stars
This is a romantic suspense novel. The first 70% was almost all suspense with a little she thinks he likes her and he likes her but she's a client. Then the last 30% was syrupy sweet romance. The bad guy stated out pretty smart, and then was a total bonehead. Overall not a bad read, plus a lot of hot Nucci Security guys and friends introduced. I look forward to the next book.
September 6, 2015
Review by Natasha Gentile
Pop star Abby Murphy is living every girl’s dream. She has fame, fortune, and a handsome boyfriend, a guitar player named Sean.
She is the pop star of all pop stars. She has everything she ever wants, well except a faithful fiancé. When she walks in while he is doing the horizontal tango with a groupie it is the final slap in the face. She is done with him and all the bad things that he brings to the table.
Only problem is that her manager, which is her mother and gives Kris Jenner a run for momanger, refuses to let her daughter dump him. Bad publicity she says, um hello sex on a couch with someone else is worse than bad publicity!
Not only does her mother not accept it, neither does Sean. He becomes the epitome of the jilted ex.
Abby doesn’t know who to trust or who to turn to. Waiting in the wings is Danny Nucci her bodyguard. Very cliché I know. But he loves her, he has always loved her, he just didn’t think she returned the felling.
While trying to protect her from her mother and Sean, she sees him in a different light. She sees him as someone she can be with and love and that will accept her just as she is.
Danny is also battling his own demons, will Abby be here to help him or just make it worse?
I liked finding our how they overcame everything that was thrown at them and it only made their bond stronger.
Pop star Abby Murphy is living every girl’s dream. She has fame, fortune, and a handsome boyfriend, a guitar player named Sean.
She is the pop star of all pop stars. She has everything she ever wants, well except a faithful fiancé. When she walks in while he is doing the horizontal tango with a groupie it is the final slap in the face. She is done with him and all the bad things that he brings to the table.
Only problem is that her manager, which is her mother and gives Kris Jenner a run for momanger, refuses to let her daughter dump him. Bad publicity she says, um hello sex on a couch with someone else is worse than bad publicity!
Not only does her mother not accept it, neither does Sean. He becomes the epitome of the jilted ex.
Abby doesn’t know who to trust or who to turn to. Waiting in the wings is Danny Nucci her bodyguard. Very cliché I know. But he loves her, he has always loved her, he just didn’t think she returned the felling.
While trying to protect her from her mother and Sean, she sees him in a different light. She sees him as someone she can be with and love and that will accept her just as she is.
Danny is also battling his own demons, will Abby be here to help him or just make it worse?
I liked finding our how they overcame everything that was thrown at them and it only made their bond stronger.
July 30, 2015
I waited with baited breath for this release. I've known this lovely lady for a while on fb and was so excited for her when she told me she was writing a book. So as you can imagine I squealed with delight when this landed on my kindle.
Abby is a tough cookie. No matter what is thrown at her she is strong and brave. On tour as a famous singer her life starts to crumble when she finds her guitarist boyfriend cheating on her. This is the start of a lot of hurtful secrets being revealed. Abby realises over time who she can trust and not trust. As things got heated with Abby and her bodyguard Danny I was shouting at my kindle for them to get a move on and get together.
Did I mention Danny is hot? Although it's his job to protect Abby I loved how he will do anything to protect her. He's a hot alpha male.
This author has wrote a wonderful story. I thought it was a great balance between the music industry and security. Although not an angsty read I found myself holding my breath on a few occasions. Once I started this I did not want to stop. As addictive as it was I even found myself reading while drying my hair. Yes it's that kinda read.
Well done Debra on a brilliant debut novel. Looking forward to reading more in this series.
Abby is a tough cookie. No matter what is thrown at her she is strong and brave. On tour as a famous singer her life starts to crumble when she finds her guitarist boyfriend cheating on her. This is the start of a lot of hurtful secrets being revealed. Abby realises over time who she can trust and not trust. As things got heated with Abby and her bodyguard Danny I was shouting at my kindle for them to get a move on and get together.
Did I mention Danny is hot? Although it's his job to protect Abby I loved how he will do anything to protect her. He's a hot alpha male.
This author has wrote a wonderful story. I thought it was a great balance between the music industry and security. Although not an angsty read I found myself holding my breath on a few occasions. Once I started this I did not want to stop. As addictive as it was I even found myself reading while drying my hair. Yes it's that kinda read.
Well done Debra on a brilliant debut novel. Looking forward to reading more in this series.
August 9, 2015
3.75 interested but not in love stars for Finding Us by Debra Presley. I liked the overview enough to want to read this. I didn't struggle to read this which is why it rate above 3 stars. I did have several issues with the fact that it takes so long for the two characters to actually be together which lost it a full star. Another little thing lost it a quarter of a star but overall it was a decent New Adult styled read.
August 5, 2015
I was lucky enough to beta this story for the author. Here's my review:
In this debut novel for Debra Presley she created an excellent book of characters that make up a team for a famous female singer named Abby. Included are her bodyguard, Danny; assistant, Sophie; assistant bodyguard, Connor; guitar player/boyfriend, Sean; manager, her mom.
So, in Finding Us, Abby has a negative experience with her boyfriend Sean. He's isn't a character that will be endeared to your heart by any means. Nor will Abby's mother. There were times when I was reading along that I wanted to strangle both of these two characters. They are very opinionated and strong in their convictions. Their convictions just don't match with Abby's.
Sean causes some major issues and Abby's bodyguard, Danny immediately puts plans in place to help Abby with the instances that ensue. Now, let's talk about Danny for a bit. He's ex-military, Owner of Nucci Securities, and one hot bodyguard. If you're thinking about Kevin Costner in The Bodyguard - the characters don't look the same but the concept is. He'll do anything to protect Abby even from himself.
Their relationship is well built and I think the author developed them well. The secondary characters help to strengthen this book and the overall story. No hindrance here. They play integral parts in Abby's life and her story and how it plays out.
I would definitely recommend you read this story. See if you think Abby gets her due - in one form or fashion. I'd love to hear what you think!
In this debut novel for Debra Presley she created an excellent book of characters that make up a team for a famous female singer named Abby. Included are her bodyguard, Danny; assistant, Sophie; assistant bodyguard, Connor; guitar player/boyfriend, Sean; manager, her mom.
So, in Finding Us, Abby has a negative experience with her boyfriend Sean. He's isn't a character that will be endeared to your heart by any means. Nor will Abby's mother. There were times when I was reading along that I wanted to strangle both of these two characters. They are very opinionated and strong in their convictions. Their convictions just don't match with Abby's.
Sean causes some major issues and Abby's bodyguard, Danny immediately puts plans in place to help Abby with the instances that ensue. Now, let's talk about Danny for a bit. He's ex-military, Owner of Nucci Securities, and one hot bodyguard. If you're thinking about Kevin Costner in The Bodyguard - the characters don't look the same but the concept is. He'll do anything to protect Abby even from himself.
Their relationship is well built and I think the author developed them well. The secondary characters help to strengthen this book and the overall story. No hindrance here. They play integral parts in Abby's life and her story and how it plays out.
I would definitely recommend you read this story. See if you think Abby gets her due - in one form or fashion. I'd love to hear what you think!
July 26, 2015
Debra Presley has made my rock and roll heart swoon with her debut novel, Finding Us. It was heartwarming, yet had absolute sass and grit to go along with it. The characters were supportive, devious, hilarious, and romantic. The perfect combination of awesome!
Abby Murphy is a famous pop star, with a boatload of troubles. A mother you wouldn’t wish upon anyone, and a boyfriend who is the king of douche bags. What spirals into a web of chaos, also brings to light the people who have been by her side and love her unconditionally.
Abby has the support of her friend and assistant Sophie, and her bodyguard Danny. With their help, she fights against the people who’ve wronged her, wanting her life to be her own. Danny becomes her crutch to lean on, and it’s super sweet to see their friendship slowly develop into something more. I loved how it was a slow process, neither of them wanting to ruin what they have as friends, but not being able to deny what’s between them. Totally swoon worthy!
Being raised in the limelight, you never know who’s really there for you, or just along for the ride. Can she ever forgive and trust again? It’s going to be a long hard road to recover from when the people you thought were the closest to you are the ones plotting your demise.
Abby Murphy is a famous pop star, with a boatload of troubles. A mother you wouldn’t wish upon anyone, and a boyfriend who is the king of douche bags. What spirals into a web of chaos, also brings to light the people who have been by her side and love her unconditionally.
Abby has the support of her friend and assistant Sophie, and her bodyguard Danny. With their help, she fights against the people who’ve wronged her, wanting her life to be her own. Danny becomes her crutch to lean on, and it’s super sweet to see their friendship slowly develop into something more. I loved how it was a slow process, neither of them wanting to ruin what they have as friends, but not being able to deny what’s between them. Totally swoon worthy!
Being raised in the limelight, you never know who’s really there for you, or just along for the ride. Can she ever forgive and trust again? It’s going to be a long hard road to recover from when the people you thought were the closest to you are the ones plotting your demise.
August 25, 2015
MEHHH.
Is my main thought about this book was it was alright. I think I said it during one of my goodreads status updates but i’ll repeat it again, I can’t get on board with insta-over the top connection. Not quite insta-love but they already knew each other in the the start of the book and i don’t know…Maybe because he was her security guard and it sort of crossed over, maybe thats my own problem of pickiness. I didn’t like the writing style, the MC’s inner dialogue simply didn’t suit me.
It got better, it was just your average romance for me. I will admit this might be heavily influenced by my iffy mood, I might try again at a different time in the future…But right now I am kind of blanking on what to say. If you read the summary and like the sound of it try it!
Given all the positive reviews I think I am just a minority!
This title was generously provided by NetGalley for a honest review!
Is my main thought about this book was it was alright. I think I said it during one of my goodreads status updates but i’ll repeat it again, I can’t get on board with insta-over the top connection. Not quite insta-love but they already knew each other in the the start of the book and i don’t know…Maybe because he was her security guard and it sort of crossed over, maybe thats my own problem of pickiness. I didn’t like the writing style, the MC’s inner dialogue simply didn’t suit me.
It got better, it was just your average romance for me. I will admit this might be heavily influenced by my iffy mood, I might try again at a different time in the future…But right now I am kind of blanking on what to say. If you read the summary and like the sound of it try it!
Given all the positive reviews I think I am just a minority!
This title was generously provided by NetGalley for a honest review!
August 2, 2015
What a beautiful debut novel by Debra Presley! I have been looking forward to this book for what seems like forever, once I read the blurb, I knew I needed to read it!
Finding Us is a romantic suspense novel that had me on the edge of my seat and falling in love. Abby Murphy is a pop singer and on top of the world. Her life is controlled by her horrible mother (also her manager) and she has no one really except for her bodyguard Danny and her assistant Sophie to confide in. Her guitarist is also her boyfriend, but he's a real piece of work and things go down when she finds him cheating on her.
I instantly fell in love with Danny and how he protected Abby and always was there for her when she needed him. I wanted things to move forward with these two, but he was always about being her bodyguard first and nothing else second. Abby definitely sees Danny as more then her bodyguard and isn't sure of how to deal with the feelings she has for him. With everything that happens in this book with Sean, Danny is in bodyguard mode more often then not with Abby's security being his number one priority.
Sean is a piece of work and definitely crazy. He can't accept that Abby wants him gone, and the things he does to her... WOW! I was speechless. He is a horrible human being and I can't stand his character. Abby's mother is no better and she will definitely not be getting the "mother of the year" award any time soon. She is a ruthless, heartless, and greedy lady who doesn't care about her daughter, just what her daughter can get her. I hate this woman just as much as I hate Sean! Danny and Sophie were the rocks for Abby in dealing with everything that happened and I loved this about the story. Family isn't blood, and Finding Us shows this!
Abby isn't a weak heroine at all. I love how Debra Presley made Abby a strong character and not a push over. She might have needed courage and some pushing, but she definitely stands up for herself and takes control of her life. I really liked this about her, yes she was famous, yes she had a crazy ex, but she didn't let that bring her down. She was just more concerned about what to do to move on with her life, and that was refreshing as a reader to see.
Finding Us had the perfect balance of suspense and romance. Even if the romance wasn't thrown in your face, you saw how much Danny and Abby cared for one another, heck everyone in their lives could see it, but getting then to make a move was the hardest thing in this book. I loved how I was kept on the edge of my seat while reading this, trying to figure out if they would catch Sean, and what his next move would be and how I continued to fall in love with Danny throughout this book.
Debra Presley wrote an amazing novel and the way this book ended was beautiful. I loved how things ended up for Danny and Abby and I'm definitely looking forward to Sophie and Conner's story! I will definitely be picking up any future books by Debra Presley, especially if they are anything like Finding us!
Finding Us is a romantic suspense novel that had me on the edge of my seat and falling in love. Abby Murphy is a pop singer and on top of the world. Her life is controlled by her horrible mother (also her manager) and she has no one really except for her bodyguard Danny and her assistant Sophie to confide in. Her guitarist is also her boyfriend, but he's a real piece of work and things go down when she finds him cheating on her.
I instantly fell in love with Danny and how he protected Abby and always was there for her when she needed him. I wanted things to move forward with these two, but he was always about being her bodyguard first and nothing else second. Abby definitely sees Danny as more then her bodyguard and isn't sure of how to deal with the feelings she has for him. With everything that happens in this book with Sean, Danny is in bodyguard mode more often then not with Abby's security being his number one priority.
Sean is a piece of work and definitely crazy. He can't accept that Abby wants him gone, and the things he does to her... WOW! I was speechless. He is a horrible human being and I can't stand his character. Abby's mother is no better and she will definitely not be getting the "mother of the year" award any time soon. She is a ruthless, heartless, and greedy lady who doesn't care about her daughter, just what her daughter can get her. I hate this woman just as much as I hate Sean! Danny and Sophie were the rocks for Abby in dealing with everything that happened and I loved this about the story. Family isn't blood, and Finding Us shows this!
Abby isn't a weak heroine at all. I love how Debra Presley made Abby a strong character and not a push over. She might have needed courage and some pushing, but she definitely stands up for herself and takes control of her life. I really liked this about her, yes she was famous, yes she had a crazy ex, but she didn't let that bring her down. She was just more concerned about what to do to move on with her life, and that was refreshing as a reader to see.
Finding Us had the perfect balance of suspense and romance. Even if the romance wasn't thrown in your face, you saw how much Danny and Abby cared for one another, heck everyone in their lives could see it, but getting then to make a move was the hardest thing in this book. I loved how I was kept on the edge of my seat while reading this, trying to figure out if they would catch Sean, and what his next move would be and how I continued to fall in love with Danny throughout this book.
Debra Presley wrote an amazing novel and the way this book ended was beautiful. I loved how things ended up for Danny and Abby and I'm definitely looking forward to Sophie and Conner's story! I will definitely be picking up any future books by Debra Presley, especially if they are anything like Finding us!
July 25, 2015
All in due time...
Being a music lover, I really enjoyed this debut novel from Debra Presley. I totally dug the music industry details involved in the pop star lifestyle. I soaked up the tour bus, backstage-drama, performances, song-writing, recording, media and security challenges Abby was faced with. Especially the challenge of keeping her hands off of her security, the owner of Nucci Securities, Danny Nucci. I felt their chemistry from the beginning and was frustrated with the waiting, and waiting, and waiting for them to get past all the obstacles and finally give in to their attraction for each other. And there were some major obstacles getting in the way of romance. Her safety was Danny's number one priority, but it wasn't all he was thinking about. He was determined to focus on her security detail, to maintain his professional distance, to keep his feelings to himself. Unfortunately, he did a damn good job, and Abby resigned herself to not expecting more from him. She and I both were having fantasies about him and his muscles and his bossy, growly voice. She tried to keep reminding herself that he was just doing his job, that his nearness was due to his protective instincts, and his touch was just to keep others away from her as he guided her to/from events. The connection she felt between them was just her imagination, right? He probably treated all of his clients the same way and she wasn't anything special, right? The story is told in both POV's so I knew what they were thinking, what they wanted, and why they were keeping those feelings to themselves. Yes, we had words over their reluctance to share. We also had words over Abby's 'momager' and her 'boyfriend'. I was right there with Sophie, encouraging her behind the scenes to embrace her inner pit-bull and take a bite out of both of them. Yup, I'm one of those readers, the ones who stick their noses in the character's business and offer unsolicited advice that is always ignored. But that doesn't stop me...nope, I was channeling my inner-profiler and anticipating what was gonna happen next and who-done-it, etc... Confession time...I was kinda feeling the bodyguard vibe...mentally singing "I Will Always Love You."
Being a music lover, I really enjoyed this debut novel from Debra Presley. I totally dug the music industry details involved in the pop star lifestyle. I soaked up the tour bus, backstage-drama, performances, song-writing, recording, media and security challenges Abby was faced with. Especially the challenge of keeping her hands off of her security, the owner of Nucci Securities, Danny Nucci. I felt their chemistry from the beginning and was frustrated with the waiting, and waiting, and waiting for them to get past all the obstacles and finally give in to their attraction for each other. And there were some major obstacles getting in the way of romance. Her safety was Danny's number one priority, but it wasn't all he was thinking about. He was determined to focus on her security detail, to maintain his professional distance, to keep his feelings to himself. Unfortunately, he did a damn good job, and Abby resigned herself to not expecting more from him. She and I both were having fantasies about him and his muscles and his bossy, growly voice. She tried to keep reminding herself that he was just doing his job, that his nearness was due to his protective instincts, and his touch was just to keep others away from her as he guided her to/from events. The connection she felt between them was just her imagination, right? He probably treated all of his clients the same way and she wasn't anything special, right? The story is told in both POV's so I knew what they were thinking, what they wanted, and why they were keeping those feelings to themselves. Yes, we had words over their reluctance to share. We also had words over Abby's 'momager' and her 'boyfriend'. I was right there with Sophie, encouraging her behind the scenes to embrace her inner pit-bull and take a bite out of both of them. Yup, I'm one of those readers, the ones who stick their noses in the character's business and offer unsolicited advice that is always ignored. But that doesn't stop me...nope, I was channeling my inner-profiler and anticipating what was gonna happen next and who-done-it, etc... Confession time...I was kinda feeling the bodyguard vibe...mentally singing "I Will Always Love You."
July 25, 2015
Heat o meter: 2
This is a cute contemporary romance. I was glad that it wasn't all about Abby trying to become famous or entirely music focused. When you meet Abby she is already famous and the story is about her life, not her music. She is a very likable character and not an egocentric pop star at all. However, she is surrounded by HORRIBLE people (her mother included!). You feel so badly for Abby's situation. I loved Sophie as well. She was a great character. This book is pretty fast paced for the most part and there is a LOT that happens.
What I wasn't crazy about: The last few chapters were odd for me. The book had moved along with so much drama and danger, then when the threat is over, the book really slowed for me. I kept thinking someone else major was going to happen, but it didn't. It isn't a bad ending by any means, it just didn't seem to fit with the rest of the book. However, maybe thats just me!
This is a cute contemporary romance. I was glad that it wasn't all about Abby trying to become famous or entirely music focused. When you meet Abby she is already famous and the story is about her life, not her music. She is a very likable character and not an egocentric pop star at all. However, she is surrounded by HORRIBLE people (her mother included!). You feel so badly for Abby's situation. I loved Sophie as well. She was a great character. This book is pretty fast paced for the most part and there is a LOT that happens.
What I wasn't crazy about: The last few chapters were odd for me. The book had moved along with so much drama and danger, then when the threat is over, the book really slowed for me. I kept thinking someone else major was going to happen, but it didn't. It isn't a bad ending by any means, it just didn't seem to fit with the rest of the book. However, maybe thats just me!
September 26, 2015
What a fun, sexy romantic novel. I loved Danny and Abby...they were both mature characters just trying to make the right decisions. Not that there wasn't angst, there was plenty of that. With Abby's mom and her boyfriend Sean, the drama levels were high. But the relationship between Danny and Abby was grounded and solid and super sexy.
You wouldn't know this was a first novel. It's well-written, well-edited, and virtually flawless. I think Debra Presley is off to a fantastic start and I can't wait to read more by her. Will we get the stories of the other hunky Nucci Securities employees soon??? I hope so!
Highly recommended read!
You wouldn't know this was a first novel. It's well-written, well-edited, and virtually flawless. I think Debra Presley is off to a fantastic start and I can't wait to read more by her. Will we get the stories of the other hunky Nucci Securities employees soon??? I hope so!
Highly recommended read!
July 25, 2015
5 Wonderful Stars
WOW!!! I was so excited to read this book, and it so was better then what I expected. Abby is a pop star who is in a horrible relationship with Sean. Sean is a complete jerk and I hated him. But I hated Abby's Mother the most. Abby is a strong character and I love her. Danny her bodyguard, wow was he something else. He is completely swoon worthy and so sweet, but he also has his past.
I think this book was very well written and very good. I thought the storyline flowed great. I will recommend this book. Great Job!
WOW!!! I was so excited to read this book, and it so was better then what I expected. Abby is a pop star who is in a horrible relationship with Sean. Sean is a complete jerk and I hated him. But I hated Abby's Mother the most. Abby is a strong character and I love her. Danny her bodyguard, wow was he something else. He is completely swoon worthy and so sweet, but he also has his past.
I think this book was very well written and very good. I thought the storyline flowed great. I will recommend this book. Great Job!
March 21, 2016
Review to come!
August 24, 2015
You can tell in reading Debra Presley's debut, Finding Us, that it was a labor of love. I was a beta reader so I know it, but I honestly think it simply comes through the story and characters. We get heartache, action, passion and a dynamic heroine, a sexy and yet reserved love interest and not one, not two, but three treacherous villains.
At the center is Abby Murphy. When we meet Abby she's beginning to open her eyes to the truths of her life as a young pop-star, actually she's being forced to open her eyes. What she could never have expected was the depth to which her trust would tested and out and and out broken.
The pace of the story is set from the go as Abby is immediately thrown into a situation where she faces heartbreak and danger. I loved that the story began this way. It would be impossible not to want to find out the who, what and why and the author does a wonderful job letting the storyline show us who the characters are, and their motivations. Events transpire and Abby is pushed to react with a not so level head and mistakes are made,and Abby's circle of confidants gets smaller and smaller.
Lots of action means her bodyguard Danny Nucci is a central part of that small circle. Fighting his attraction to Abby is perplexing but well portrayed. There are little snippets of Danny's back-story that give us an inkling as to where his head and heart are. We know what he wants, but Danny is also reserved and a professional. He also knows Abby better than she thinks. This is where we see the difference in their ages and backgrounds. It's also a catalyst to monumental change, one that Abby necessitates and is probably one of my favorite things of this story. While he is hot and irresistible, Abby's learned to not take things too quickly and recognizes that she needs to heal herself, at her pace, without too many outside influences.
Finding Us also has a great group of secondary characters, ones I latched onto quickly. The characters and causes come down to the dialogue and banter between her assistant Sophie and Connor,one of Danny's friends and employee. The snarky and sweetly sexual innuendos between them serve to create that palpable feeling of sexual tension. Only because this was turned up a notch for these two, but I promise Abby and Danny do a fair job of flirting (sans the snark).
I really loved this story and being a part of the process. The Abby I met in version 1 was decidedly different than the Abby in the final release. I was lucky to get to know these different incarnations of Abby, loved them all the same, and I am happy to rate Finding Us with 5 Stars and my recommendation!
*I was gifted a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
At the center is Abby Murphy. When we meet Abby she's beginning to open her eyes to the truths of her life as a young pop-star, actually she's being forced to open her eyes. What she could never have expected was the depth to which her trust would tested and out and and out broken.
The pace of the story is set from the go as Abby is immediately thrown into a situation where she faces heartbreak and danger. I loved that the story began this way. It would be impossible not to want to find out the who, what and why and the author does a wonderful job letting the storyline show us who the characters are, and their motivations. Events transpire and Abby is pushed to react with a not so level head and mistakes are made,and Abby's circle of confidants gets smaller and smaller.
Lots of action means her bodyguard Danny Nucci is a central part of that small circle. Fighting his attraction to Abby is perplexing but well portrayed. There are little snippets of Danny's back-story that give us an inkling as to where his head and heart are. We know what he wants, but Danny is also reserved and a professional. He also knows Abby better than she thinks. This is where we see the difference in their ages and backgrounds. It's also a catalyst to monumental change, one that Abby necessitates and is probably one of my favorite things of this story. While he is hot and irresistible, Abby's learned to not take things too quickly and recognizes that she needs to heal herself, at her pace, without too many outside influences.
Finding Us also has a great group of secondary characters, ones I latched onto quickly. The characters and causes come down to the dialogue and banter between her assistant Sophie and Connor,one of Danny's friends and employee. The snarky and sweetly sexual innuendos between them serve to create that palpable feeling of sexual tension. Only because this was turned up a notch for these two, but I promise Abby and Danny do a fair job of flirting (sans the snark).
I really loved this story and being a part of the process. The Abby I met in version 1 was decidedly different than the Abby in the final release. I was lucky to get to know these different incarnations of Abby, loved them all the same, and I am happy to rate Finding Us with 5 Stars and my recommendation!
*I was gifted a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
July 20, 2015
Received a copy in exchange for an honest review.
“She knew she’d been fortunate, but in that moment, she realized just how fortunate. At the time, she’d understood enough to be afraid, but it was a generalized, muted fear that came from realizing she was vulnerable.”
5 super exciting, sexy stars!!! I loved this debut novel from Debra Presley. It sucked me in from page one and I refused to sleep until I was done, and I don’t regret it one bit!!!
Pop star Abby Murphy is living every girl’s dream. She has fame, fortune, and a handsome boyfriend, a guitar player named Sean. That changes the night she finds him in the arms of another woman. Hurt and betrayed, Abby ends their relationship. But Sean won't accept the breakup, and she soon learns that he’s had a hidden agenda all along. Overnight, Sean transforms from loving boyfriend to dangerous adversary, and Abby no longer knows who she can trust among her friends and family.
Abby turns to her bodyguard, Danny Nucci, a man who will do everything in his power to keep her safe. But when Abby realizes her feelings for Danny run much deeper than she thought, she refuses to give in to her attraction in order to preserve her new found independence as well as protect Danny from Sean's machinations.
When Abby finally finds the strength to reclaim her life and acknowledge her growing love for Danny, will she be able to let him in? And will Danny be able to overcome his own demons to be the man she needs him to be? Or will she be forced to let him go forever?
Abby has everything she wants, she’s a famous popstar, she has a hot boyfriend, what more could she need?? All that changes though when she finds out that her boyfriend Sean is cheating on her. Determined not to be “that” girl, she breaks up with him, but Sean isn’t having any of it. Unfortunately Sean doesn’t take the news too well and threatens to destroy her and everything she’s made for herself. Upset and unsure of who she should trust at this point, Abby doesn’t know what to do. In walks Danny, her bodyguard, who will do anything to make sure Abby is okay. Pretty soon Abby realizes she has more than just platonic feelings for him. Liking her new single life, she doesn’t want to give into her feelings for Danny, so she tries to put them on the back burner. When danger steps in and Danny is there to protect her, will Abby rethink everything she’s decided?? I really loved this book!! Great debut novel!!!
**Received a copy in exchange for an honest review. Read and reviewed by Melissa for Alpha Book Club**
“She knew she’d been fortunate, but in that moment, she realized just how fortunate. At the time, she’d understood enough to be afraid, but it was a generalized, muted fear that came from realizing she was vulnerable.”
5 super exciting, sexy stars!!! I loved this debut novel from Debra Presley. It sucked me in from page one and I refused to sleep until I was done, and I don’t regret it one bit!!!
Pop star Abby Murphy is living every girl’s dream. She has fame, fortune, and a handsome boyfriend, a guitar player named Sean. That changes the night she finds him in the arms of another woman. Hurt and betrayed, Abby ends their relationship. But Sean won't accept the breakup, and she soon learns that he’s had a hidden agenda all along. Overnight, Sean transforms from loving boyfriend to dangerous adversary, and Abby no longer knows who she can trust among her friends and family.
Abby turns to her bodyguard, Danny Nucci, a man who will do everything in his power to keep her safe. But when Abby realizes her feelings for Danny run much deeper than she thought, she refuses to give in to her attraction in order to preserve her new found independence as well as protect Danny from Sean's machinations.
When Abby finally finds the strength to reclaim her life and acknowledge her growing love for Danny, will she be able to let him in? And will Danny be able to overcome his own demons to be the man she needs him to be? Or will she be forced to let him go forever?
Abby has everything she wants, she’s a famous popstar, she has a hot boyfriend, what more could she need?? All that changes though when she finds out that her boyfriend Sean is cheating on her. Determined not to be “that” girl, she breaks up with him, but Sean isn’t having any of it. Unfortunately Sean doesn’t take the news too well and threatens to destroy her and everything she’s made for herself. Upset and unsure of who she should trust at this point, Abby doesn’t know what to do. In walks Danny, her bodyguard, who will do anything to make sure Abby is okay. Pretty soon Abby realizes she has more than just platonic feelings for him. Liking her new single life, she doesn’t want to give into her feelings for Danny, so she tries to put them on the back burner. When danger steps in and Danny is there to protect her, will Abby rethink everything she’s decided?? I really loved this book!! Great debut novel!!!
**Received a copy in exchange for an honest review. Read and reviewed by Melissa for Alpha Book Club**
August 1, 2015
4 Solid Stars
This book was given to me for my honest review
“You get all of this crazy I live in, and you accept it. You allow me to be me. You encourage me to be me. I couldn’t have dreamt of a better man to be with. After we talked tonight, I understand you more and can appreciate how difficult it is to let someone else be in charge, but if you really want this to work, then you need to figure out how to do that. I know there will be times when you’ll have to take the lead, but tonight is not one of them.” Abby
Abby-pretty, star
Danny-hunky and protection
Sean-immature
I must say that I am at a loss of words to write a complete review for this book. The book is compelling but simple to ones taste. The events that occur in this read become explosive at times but not the out of this world let me get the fire extinguisher.
Abby loves her singing and with the calmness that she gets on the stage from her voice and projecting to the world the feelings within herself she is at ease. Off stage a different world that will have you gasping for air and wanting to hit a few people in the process. With eyes closed to some extent Abby comes to a realization with a little help from her friends and embarks on a new path of wisdom and solitude. Will Abby be able to put the treacherous past behind her to find the world of happiness that has stood beside her, protected her and guided her but most of all loved her from the sides. Will Danny and Abby find the true love they so passionately deserve?
To the author: I have struggled with the rating on this review. Giving it a 5 star sweep would have been wrong for me. The words in this read were compelling, explosive but at the same time to wordy for me. The screaming towel is a must for all, the tissues and the “Oh No” will have you at many points in this book but when the ending comes you will be saying “Awe”. Kudos
To the readers: Enjoy you will find surprise after surprise and won’t know what to do with it all. By all means bring some ice-cream to this big unforgettable read.
Happy Reading
This book was given to me for my honest review
“You get all of this crazy I live in, and you accept it. You allow me to be me. You encourage me to be me. I couldn’t have dreamt of a better man to be with. After we talked tonight, I understand you more and can appreciate how difficult it is to let someone else be in charge, but if you really want this to work, then you need to figure out how to do that. I know there will be times when you’ll have to take the lead, but tonight is not one of them.” Abby
Abby-pretty, star
Danny-hunky and protection
Sean-immature
I must say that I am at a loss of words to write a complete review for this book. The book is compelling but simple to ones taste. The events that occur in this read become explosive at times but not the out of this world let me get the fire extinguisher.
Abby loves her singing and with the calmness that she gets on the stage from her voice and projecting to the world the feelings within herself she is at ease. Off stage a different world that will have you gasping for air and wanting to hit a few people in the process. With eyes closed to some extent Abby comes to a realization with a little help from her friends and embarks on a new path of wisdom and solitude. Will Abby be able to put the treacherous past behind her to find the world of happiness that has stood beside her, protected her and guided her but most of all loved her from the sides. Will Danny and Abby find the true love they so passionately deserve?
To the author: I have struggled with the rating on this review. Giving it a 5 star sweep would have been wrong for me. The words in this read were compelling, explosive but at the same time to wordy for me. The screaming towel is a must for all, the tissues and the “Oh No” will have you at many points in this book but when the ending comes you will be saying “Awe”. Kudos
To the readers: Enjoy you will find surprise after surprise and won’t know what to do with it all. By all means bring some ice-cream to this big unforgettable read.
Happy Reading
July 31, 2015
This is a very impressive debut novel, one that I quickly got pulled into and didn't want to put down. I only did because it's pretty much frowned upon to drive distracted.
This book gives us a look into the behind the scenes life of a mega pop star, complete with the adoring fans, tabloid reporters, hot bodyguards, crazy stalkers and one of the worst stage mothers you have the misfortune of meeting.
I found it refreshing to see that Abby isn't one of the popstars who demand outrageous things and behaves deplorably; she's actually very down-to-earth and unassuming, and really just wants to be able to live a normal life when she gets down time. I liked how Danny was both good to her and good for her; without his presence in her life, Abby wouldn't have been able to learn to stand on her own and make it through the many situations and confrontations that she endured in this book.
When you read this book, you won't be that surprised at the some of the stunts that Sean pulls (although there was one that shocked me a bit), but once you learn more about Abby's mom you just might find yourself disgusted with her and all of her machinations and manipulation of Abby's life. Her mom is the type of person you would gladly suggest that she run a 40-yard in a 30-yard room.
I like Abby and Danny together, but I did wish that he had told Abby what happened on his deployment earlier in the story. And even though it seemed that most of the people in Abby's life were only there because of her celebrity status, I was really impressed with Sophie, who genuinely cared about Abby as a real friend should.
Overall this is a really entertaining and enjoyable story, I'm looking forward to the next book in the series!
ARC provided in exchange for honest review.
This book gives us a look into the behind the scenes life of a mega pop star, complete with the adoring fans, tabloid reporters, hot bodyguards, crazy stalkers and one of the worst stage mothers you have the misfortune of meeting.
I found it refreshing to see that Abby isn't one of the popstars who demand outrageous things and behaves deplorably; she's actually very down-to-earth and unassuming, and really just wants to be able to live a normal life when she gets down time. I liked how Danny was both good to her and good for her; without his presence in her life, Abby wouldn't have been able to learn to stand on her own and make it through the many situations and confrontations that she endured in this book.
When you read this book, you won't be that surprised at the some of the stunts that Sean pulls (although there was one that shocked me a bit), but once you learn more about Abby's mom you just might find yourself disgusted with her and all of her machinations and manipulation of Abby's life. Her mom is the type of person you would gladly suggest that she run a 40-yard in a 30-yard room.
I like Abby and Danny together, but I did wish that he had told Abby what happened on his deployment earlier in the story. And even though it seemed that most of the people in Abby's life were only there because of her celebrity status, I was really impressed with Sophie, who genuinely cared about Abby as a real friend should.
Overall this is a really entertaining and enjoyable story, I'm looking forward to the next book in the series!
ARC provided in exchange for honest review.
July 30, 2015
5 stars
Debra's debut novel will blow you out the water. The edge and sass that each character gives will make you wonder where Debra came up with this story.
Abby who has been in the spot light since she was young, sang her way through many of her fan's hearts. She did this not only because she loved music but to make her mother happy. Don't get me started on her mother. The heartless, waste of space. I thought my own mother was bad. Vivian takes the cake and then some. You would think that if your daughter is being harassed and threatened you would protect her, shield her. Oh no, not Vivian. She says "suck it up". Reminds me of being in the ARMY!!
Danny, oh Danny!! He will make your heart swoon and wish you had a bodyguard like him. He has a sweet side, but always on the job. He doesn't mix business with pleasure, but when it comes to Abby he will step aside.
I have to warn you. There is a bit of violence. Not to much to where it will put you off. There is romance. There is comedy, suspense. I say this because Abby's ex boyfriend and all his dastardly ways of getting to Abby makes you wonder...HOW?? It also makes you think twice about who your friends really are.
The ending is sweet and simple. However I was left with a few hmmmm moments myself. Like what happened to her mother? How long did the ex and Abby's so called friend end up doing time for? Did Danny and Abby make it? OMG what about Sophie and Conner?? I was told there is a book 2 called Saving Us and that will be about Sophie and Conner. I can't freaking wait. I love Sophie!!
Debra's debut novel will blow you out the water. The edge and sass that each character gives will make you wonder where Debra came up with this story.
Abby who has been in the spot light since she was young, sang her way through many of her fan's hearts. She did this not only because she loved music but to make her mother happy. Don't get me started on her mother. The heartless, waste of space. I thought my own mother was bad. Vivian takes the cake and then some. You would think that if your daughter is being harassed and threatened you would protect her, shield her. Oh no, not Vivian. She says "suck it up". Reminds me of being in the ARMY!!
Danny, oh Danny!! He will make your heart swoon and wish you had a bodyguard like him. He has a sweet side, but always on the job. He doesn't mix business with pleasure, but when it comes to Abby he will step aside.
I have to warn you. There is a bit of violence. Not to much to where it will put you off. There is romance. There is comedy, suspense. I say this because Abby's ex boyfriend and all his dastardly ways of getting to Abby makes you wonder...HOW?? It also makes you think twice about who your friends really are.
The ending is sweet and simple. However I was left with a few hmmmm moments myself. Like what happened to her mother? How long did the ex and Abby's so called friend end up doing time for? Did Danny and Abby make it? OMG what about Sophie and Conner?? I was told there is a book 2 called Saving Us and that will be about Sophie and Conner. I can't freaking wait. I love Sophie!!
September 22, 2015
Debra Presley has thoroughly impressed me with her debut novel. Finding Us was definitely a breath of fresh air.
Finding Us kept me on my toes and had me hooked from the first page. That doesn't happen often. I felt a connection to Abby's character. She is a pop star who's mother or as I like to call her "Momager from Hell" did everything she could to control her daughter. I mean everything. She controlled what kind of album she made all the way down to her relationship with her scumbag boyfriend Sean.
Don't get me started on Sean. I can't fully go into detail but that man is pure evil. Trust me when I say you will hate him.
Anyway let me get off of those people before I spoil things that I don't want to.
Abby and her bodyguard Danny are attracted to each other and have been for a while. Neither wanting to show the other completely how they feel because not only is getting too close to Abby a no go zone for Danny since he has to protect her but it's also a no go zone for Abby because she doesn't think that he could possibly feel the same way about her.
We get to hear from both Danny and Abby's points of view which are refreshing because we get their inner thoughts and get to feel their inner struggles to hold in their feelings.
This love story is not without it's drama and white knuckle moments where you fear for Abby's life. There are twist and turns and surprises that will keep you guessing.
Finding Us is a story of not only Abby finding love but also her finding herself.
Finding Us kept me on my toes and had me hooked from the first page. That doesn't happen often. I felt a connection to Abby's character. She is a pop star who's mother or as I like to call her "Momager from Hell" did everything she could to control her daughter. I mean everything. She controlled what kind of album she made all the way down to her relationship with her scumbag boyfriend Sean.
Don't get me started on Sean. I can't fully go into detail but that man is pure evil. Trust me when I say you will hate him.
Anyway let me get off of those people before I spoil things that I don't want to.
Abby and her bodyguard Danny are attracted to each other and have been for a while. Neither wanting to show the other completely how they feel because not only is getting too close to Abby a no go zone for Danny since he has to protect her but it's also a no go zone for Abby because she doesn't think that he could possibly feel the same way about her.
We get to hear from both Danny and Abby's points of view which are refreshing because we get their inner thoughts and get to feel their inner struggles to hold in their feelings.
This love story is not without it's drama and white knuckle moments where you fear for Abby's life. There are twist and turns and surprises that will keep you guessing.
Finding Us is a story of not only Abby finding love but also her finding herself.
October 15, 2015
Finding Us is the debut novel of Debra Presley and the first book in the Nucci Securities Series.
Abby Murphy is a pop star She's has the fame, the fortune, the guitarist boyfriend Sean, best friend and assistant Sophie, her mom Vivien is her manager, and one hot bodyguard Danny Nucci. All that changes in the blink of an eye when she catches Sean in her dressing room with a groupie and breaks up with him. Unbeknownst to Abby Sean is not who he seems. He has a hidden agenda and is slightly off his rocker. Danny will protect Sean with his own life if need be. He also has feelings for her as she does for him. Sophie feels the need to protect Danny and struggles with her feelings. Can Sophie find her independence, safety and true love.
I devoured this book. I absolutely loved Abby. She's got a lot going on and needed to learn to deal with her own business since she's always micromanaged. I loved going on this journey with her and rooted for her and the things she wanted the entire way. I also loved Danny and Sophie and some other characters but boy oh boy did I hate Sean and Viviene. Talk about some twisted evil people. This book has everything you look for in a great read. Heart stopping moments, love, lust, hold your breathe moments. Don miss this book. Debra Presley has written an amazing debut novel I didn't want to end. I cannot wait to get my hands on the other books in the series as soon as they come out.
Abby Murphy is a pop star She's has the fame, the fortune, the guitarist boyfriend Sean, best friend and assistant Sophie, her mom Vivien is her manager, and one hot bodyguard Danny Nucci. All that changes in the blink of an eye when she catches Sean in her dressing room with a groupie and breaks up with him. Unbeknownst to Abby Sean is not who he seems. He has a hidden agenda and is slightly off his rocker. Danny will protect Sean with his own life if need be. He also has feelings for her as she does for him. Sophie feels the need to protect Danny and struggles with her feelings. Can Sophie find her independence, safety and true love.
I devoured this book. I absolutely loved Abby. She's got a lot going on and needed to learn to deal with her own business since she's always micromanaged. I loved going on this journey with her and rooted for her and the things she wanted the entire way. I also loved Danny and Sophie and some other characters but boy oh boy did I hate Sean and Viviene. Talk about some twisted evil people. This book has everything you look for in a great read. Heart stopping moments, love, lust, hold your breathe moments. Don miss this book. Debra Presley has written an amazing debut novel I didn't want to end. I cannot wait to get my hands on the other books in the series as soon as they come out.
July 28, 2015
I received a ARC of this book in exchange for a honest review. This was my foray into the Rockstar Romance genre and I have to say it was a excellent way to try out a new genre! This story has everything, romance, suspense, comic relief moments, self-discovery and an empowered heroine. All of my favorite things! There is even a ex military man for those of you who love that element in a hero ;) I thought that Abby was such an intriguing character, I expected her to be kind of this spoiled, self-entitled princess at the beginning but you soon see that she is so much more. Her journey of empowering herself after some traumatic events was quite refreshing, she could have easily become dependent on Danny and it would have made me not enjoy the book quite as much so I'm really glad that Debra took the story in a different direction.
Danny and the guys were all great characters, strong, moral guys with awesome senses of humor haha. They definitely provide levity after some heavy moments in the story. I also love the relationship between Sophie and Abby, every girl needs a bestie like that who will give you the pep talk to get you to pull your head out of your backside and go after what you want! All in all I thought this was an excellent book! And I may be selfish but can we have a book about Sophie and Connor next? Please and thank you!
Danny and the guys were all great characters, strong, moral guys with awesome senses of humor haha. They definitely provide levity after some heavy moments in the story. I also love the relationship between Sophie and Abby, every girl needs a bestie like that who will give you the pep talk to get you to pull your head out of your backside and go after what you want! All in all I thought this was an excellent book! And I may be selfish but can we have a book about Sophie and Connor next? Please and thank you!
August 1, 2015
Received via Netgalley for honest review
I really enjoyed this story! It’s a story of figuring out who you are standing up for yourself. Abby has been sheltered by her mother her entire life. The woman controls absolutely everything but when Abby finds out she has committed the ultimate betrayal, she’s done and she finally starts to live her life the way she wants to live it. The characters that you were meant to love were very likeable and the characters you were meant to hate were also very vivid and yes, I disliked them, greatly…the author succeeded in that very well. There were some interesting twists to the story and it’s more suspense than romance (not necessarily a bad thing because I really enjoy mystery/thriller/suspense as well) since things don’t really start going anywhere with Abby and Danny until about the last 25% of the book.
Overall, it was a fast paced story with lots of action but there were a few times where it kind of lulled a bit and once the threat of danger was removed, it slowed down even more. I’m not sure why but the writing just didn’t jump out and grab me most of the time. It’s really well written so I’m wondering if it’s just that it’s written in 3rd POV.
Overall, it was a great read and I look forward to reading more from this author!
I really enjoyed this story! It’s a story of figuring out who you are standing up for yourself. Abby has been sheltered by her mother her entire life. The woman controls absolutely everything but when Abby finds out she has committed the ultimate betrayal, she’s done and she finally starts to live her life the way she wants to live it. The characters that you were meant to love were very likeable and the characters you were meant to hate were also very vivid and yes, I disliked them, greatly…the author succeeded in that very well. There were some interesting twists to the story and it’s more suspense than romance (not necessarily a bad thing because I really enjoy mystery/thriller/suspense as well) since things don’t really start going anywhere with Abby and Danny until about the last 25% of the book.
Overall, it was a fast paced story with lots of action but there were a few times where it kind of lulled a bit and once the threat of danger was removed, it slowed down even more. I’m not sure why but the writing just didn’t jump out and grab me most of the time. It’s really well written so I’m wondering if it’s just that it’s written in 3rd POV.
Overall, it was a great read and I look forward to reading more from this author!
August 1, 2015
I have found another author to add to my favorite list. Debra Presley is my new #1. Her debut novel “Finding Us” will blow you out of the water and keep you wanting more even after the last page. Debra has fine tuned the mixture of romance, wit and a pinch of angst into these characters and the sex scenes… so hot!
Abby is a pop star that is just looking for some normalcy to her life. With her mother/manager breathing down her neck and a boyfriend who with a wandering eye she wonders if she is just looking for a pipe dream. Enter Danny Nucci, a military veteran who has been assigned to be Abby’s personal security detail. Neither of them can deny the spark that is felt between them but the skeletons in their closets make them both second guess that spark. Will Abby be able to put her trust into Danny to protect her heart? Will Danny’s past keep him from giving his love to someone again?
Abby is a pop star that is just looking for some normalcy to her life. With her mother/manager breathing down her neck and a boyfriend who with a wandering eye she wonders if she is just looking for a pipe dream. Enter Danny Nucci, a military veteran who has been assigned to be Abby’s personal security detail. Neither of them can deny the spark that is felt between them but the skeletons in their closets make them both second guess that spark. Will Abby be able to put her trust into Danny to protect her heart? Will Danny’s past keep him from giving his love to someone again?
August 5, 2015
Finding Us was a great debut by Debra!
Finding Us had a lot of aspects to it. A crazy ex boyfriend, a mother who has no care, and a girl who is basically just lost, and can't seem to trust anyone.
I loved Danny. I thought he was a great leading male in the story. The one thing I can't take is a weak female, and in some cases Abby was really weak. I wanted to shake her and tell her to not care what people were telling her to do. I wanted her to just do what SHE wanted to do..But I did understand why she had to do what she did. Being a musician, they live completely different lives. I totally understood why she couldn't just do what she wanted at times.
I do wish that Danny and Abby had a longer time together than they did, but maybe there will be another book with them in it, because I really do love them together.
All in all it was a good read. It was a mixture of funny, sexy and serious. Great job on your debut Debra, I can't wait for the next one!
Finding Us had a lot of aspects to it. A crazy ex boyfriend, a mother who has no care, and a girl who is basically just lost, and can't seem to trust anyone.
I loved Danny. I thought he was a great leading male in the story. The one thing I can't take is a weak female, and in some cases Abby was really weak. I wanted to shake her and tell her to not care what people were telling her to do. I wanted her to just do what SHE wanted to do..But I did understand why she had to do what she did. Being a musician, they live completely different lives. I totally understood why she couldn't just do what she wanted at times.
I do wish that Danny and Abby had a longer time together than they did, but maybe there will be another book with them in it, because I really do love them together.
All in all it was a good read. It was a mixture of funny, sexy and serious. Great job on your debut Debra, I can't wait for the next one!
August 29, 2015
3.5 stars
This was an easy to read love story. The bad guy was a dead give away, but he was slick, cause the reader didn't know who was helping him till toward the end. My problem with this was our heroine, Abby. She was wishy-washy and withheld important information from Danny that he needed to protect her. I mean, come on, if someone is threatening you and has tried to kidnap you already, won't you tell your bodyguard that he's still calling and won't you listen to the bodyguard when he says having girls night out isn't a good idea? Abby didn't.
Would I read more from this author? Most definitely! I'm looking forward to the next book which will give us Connor and Sophie's story. Connor was a hoot!
ARC provided by the publisher via Netgalley
This was an easy to read love story. The bad guy was a dead give away, but he was slick, cause the reader didn't know who was helping him till toward the end. My problem with this was our heroine, Abby. She was wishy-washy and withheld important information from Danny that he needed to protect her. I mean, come on, if someone is threatening you and has tried to kidnap you already, won't you tell your bodyguard that he's still calling and won't you listen to the bodyguard when he says having girls night out isn't a good idea? Abby didn't.
Would I read more from this author? Most definitely! I'm looking forward to the next book which will give us Connor and Sophie's story. Connor was a hoot!
ARC provided by the publisher via Netgalley
July 31, 2015
Finding Us is a heartwarming, fast paced read with likable, well developed characters.
Though Abby Murphy is a famous pop star, the book doesn’t revolve about her career, but her life. The horrible people that sorround her (ex and mother included) and the amazing Danny who is always there for her. Danny starts as a body guard, and … well it’s sweet how their relationships develops throughout the book into something else.
In Finding Us, Debra’s story telling skills are amazing and she also brings a cast of very likable characters. I really recommend this book
Though Abby Murphy is a famous pop star, the book doesn’t revolve about her career, but her life. The horrible people that sorround her (ex and mother included) and the amazing Danny who is always there for her. Danny starts as a body guard, and … well it’s sweet how their relationships develops throughout the book into something else.
In Finding Us, Debra’s story telling skills are amazing and she also brings a cast of very likable characters. I really recommend this book
August 1, 2015
5 – Dark Side of Fame – Stars ★✩★✩★
~this review may contain minor spoilers~
“Abby, baby, I'm sorry. She followed me back, and I had a couple of drinks. It was stupid, I know. Please, please, baby, I'm sorry.”
“Don't. Don't you fucking come near me. Get out. We're done”
“Baby, you can't do this. You don't mean it. You know I love you. I made a mistake. Let's talk about this. You're tired.”
“You love me? That's fucking rich. I saw exactly how much you love me just now. Get out.”
Abby Murphy lives a life of glitz and glamour. For all appearances, she has everything a girl could ever dream of – fame, fortune and a loving relationship with her guitar player/boyfriend Sean – until the night she finds him in the arms of a groupie and calls things off. But Sean will not walk away easily. As it turn out, he has had ulterior motives for quite some time, motives he is in no way willing to give up on. Overnight it seems, Sean makes the change from smitten boyfriend to psycho ex bound and determined to get what he wants regardless of who gets hurt in the process. When even Abby's manager seems to side with her crazed ex, and having no idea who she can trust anymore, she turns to the only man who has ever made her feel truly safe – her head of security. All too soon she starts to develop feeling for the only man who understands her and just allows her to be herself, but he makes it clear he is just doing his job. When Abby finally takes control of her life, will she have the courage to lay it all on the line for him?
Danny Nucci knows he has allowed himself to become too emotionally attached to his client, but it is too late to turn back – he doesn't trust anyone else to keep her safe. But getting involved with the starlet is out of the question. Every day Danny fights against the ghosts of his past, a past that will not allow him to open himself up to anyone again, and allowing himself to acknowledge his feeling for Abby could put her at risk – something he just isn't willing to do. But keeping his distance becomes impossible when an unknown threat comes slamming into Abby's life. Faced with the very real possibility of losing her, Danny has to decide if he is willing to fight his demons and find a place in her life besides bodyguard.
he couldn't risk getting involved with Abby. He didn't trust himself. If he ever let his feelings for someone overrule his better judgment again, and something bad happened because of that, he couldn't take it.
Now that is how debuts are done! I have been looking forward to reading this book ever since I first heard about it a few months ago and I was NOT disappointed. But fair warning – this is not all sparkles and rainbows. There is an abundance of drama, and some unexpected violence which may actually be a trigger for some – just a heads up. ALL of the characters (good and bad) are unique and each stand out in their own way. The bad guys are beyond vile and some will surprise you, not in a sweet, wholesome way either. Sean gave me the willies and Abby's 'Manager' pissed me off to no end. Sophie and Conner were a freakin RIOT – everyone needs people like that in their lives. But the stars of this book were definitely Danny and Abby. This was without a doubt a slow burn romance – by the time things started to go the way I was in desperate need of, a few cold showers were in order. Normally I would complain about that. I hate waiting more than half the book for the main couple to come together in some way. With that said, I let it slide with this book because honestly with everything else going on in Abby's life it made sense to wait it out. She may have been unexpectedly thrown into a hell no woman should have to endure, but she didn't let it break her. She was stronger than she ever thought possible and she took her life back one step at a time, never looking back. It was amazing. She never let her fame go to her head and always took the time for her fans, knowing they were the reason she had all she had. She was sweet and funny, caring and determined. I just loved her. Danny was everything I would want in a smokin hott bodyguard type, but he was also frustrating as hell. He certainly knew how to mask his feeling, made it a point to keep Abby at arm's length for quite awhile, but I got it. I understood where he was coming from. He may have hurt her by denying his feelings but he always made sure she felt safe and she trusted him above anyone else. He also allowed her to just be herself and never treated her like she was nothing but a celebrity – he saw her for who she was behind the glitz and never made her feel like he was just using her to get ahead. The chemistry between the two was easy to see, from everyone, even if they chose to ignore it. I could go on and on about everything I loved about this but I think I've rambled quite enough – hopefully I didn't spoil the story but enticed you to read it NOW. It really was an amazing journey and while the ending had me smiling like a loon, it left me with some questions, so I'm hoping this means we haven't seen the last of these two. Debra Presley has slammed her way onto my One-Click-Addiction List with this fab debut and I cannot wait to see what she brings us next.
“I'm not sure how you feel, and maybe it's too soon for me to lay it all out there, but finding this, finding us has been the most amazing thing for me. I finally feel like I'm where I'm supposed to be.”
Now, I'm gonna leave you with a little bit of fun just because Ms. Debra brought it to mind and I couldn't help but laughing. The good old days....
Check out my FULL post HERE
~this review may contain minor spoilers~
“Abby, baby, I'm sorry. She followed me back, and I had a couple of drinks. It was stupid, I know. Please, please, baby, I'm sorry.”
“Don't. Don't you fucking come near me. Get out. We're done”
“Baby, you can't do this. You don't mean it. You know I love you. I made a mistake. Let's talk about this. You're tired.”
“You love me? That's fucking rich. I saw exactly how much you love me just now. Get out.”
Abby Murphy lives a life of glitz and glamour. For all appearances, she has everything a girl could ever dream of – fame, fortune and a loving relationship with her guitar player/boyfriend Sean – until the night she finds him in the arms of a groupie and calls things off. But Sean will not walk away easily. As it turn out, he has had ulterior motives for quite some time, motives he is in no way willing to give up on. Overnight it seems, Sean makes the change from smitten boyfriend to psycho ex bound and determined to get what he wants regardless of who gets hurt in the process. When even Abby's manager seems to side with her crazed ex, and having no idea who she can trust anymore, she turns to the only man who has ever made her feel truly safe – her head of security. All too soon she starts to develop feeling for the only man who understands her and just allows her to be herself, but he makes it clear he is just doing his job. When Abby finally takes control of her life, will she have the courage to lay it all on the line for him?
Danny Nucci knows he has allowed himself to become too emotionally attached to his client, but it is too late to turn back – he doesn't trust anyone else to keep her safe. But getting involved with the starlet is out of the question. Every day Danny fights against the ghosts of his past, a past that will not allow him to open himself up to anyone again, and allowing himself to acknowledge his feeling for Abby could put her at risk – something he just isn't willing to do. But keeping his distance becomes impossible when an unknown threat comes slamming into Abby's life. Faced with the very real possibility of losing her, Danny has to decide if he is willing to fight his demons and find a place in her life besides bodyguard.
he couldn't risk getting involved with Abby. He didn't trust himself. If he ever let his feelings for someone overrule his better judgment again, and something bad happened because of that, he couldn't take it.
Now that is how debuts are done! I have been looking forward to reading this book ever since I first heard about it a few months ago and I was NOT disappointed. But fair warning – this is not all sparkles and rainbows. There is an abundance of drama, and some unexpected violence which may actually be a trigger for some – just a heads up. ALL of the characters (good and bad) are unique and each stand out in their own way. The bad guys are beyond vile and some will surprise you, not in a sweet, wholesome way either. Sean gave me the willies and Abby's 'Manager' pissed me off to no end. Sophie and Conner were a freakin RIOT – everyone needs people like that in their lives. But the stars of this book were definitely Danny and Abby. This was without a doubt a slow burn romance – by the time things started to go the way I was in desperate need of, a few cold showers were in order. Normally I would complain about that. I hate waiting more than half the book for the main couple to come together in some way. With that said, I let it slide with this book because honestly with everything else going on in Abby's life it made sense to wait it out. She may have been unexpectedly thrown into a hell no woman should have to endure, but she didn't let it break her. She was stronger than she ever thought possible and she took her life back one step at a time, never looking back. It was amazing. She never let her fame go to her head and always took the time for her fans, knowing they were the reason she had all she had. She was sweet and funny, caring and determined. I just loved her. Danny was everything I would want in a smokin hott bodyguard type, but he was also frustrating as hell. He certainly knew how to mask his feeling, made it a point to keep Abby at arm's length for quite awhile, but I got it. I understood where he was coming from. He may have hurt her by denying his feelings but he always made sure she felt safe and she trusted him above anyone else. He also allowed her to just be herself and never treated her like she was nothing but a celebrity – he saw her for who she was behind the glitz and never made her feel like he was just using her to get ahead. The chemistry between the two was easy to see, from everyone, even if they chose to ignore it. I could go on and on about everything I loved about this but I think I've rambled quite enough – hopefully I didn't spoil the story but enticed you to read it NOW. It really was an amazing journey and while the ending had me smiling like a loon, it left me with some questions, so I'm hoping this means we haven't seen the last of these two. Debra Presley has slammed her way onto my One-Click-Addiction List with this fab debut and I cannot wait to see what she brings us next.
“I'm not sure how you feel, and maybe it's too soon for me to lay it all out there, but finding this, finding us has been the most amazing thing for me. I finally feel like I'm where I'm supposed to be.”
Now, I'm gonna leave you with a little bit of fun just because Ms. Debra brought it to mind and I couldn't help but laughing. The good old days....
Check out my FULL post HERE
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