What do you think?
Rate this book
Cruel & Beautiful #3
One Wrong Choice
This is a full-length stand-alone novel.
You are cordially invited to witness the union of Jenna and Kenneth...
Isn’t it every woman’s dream to marry the perfect guy?
Mr. Tall, Dark, Rich, and Handsome, the one who waits for me at the altar, is that man.
It's what my family wants.
For a long time, it was what I thought I wanted, too.
Then I met Brandon, a ruggedly handsome guy with inked up sleeves, who turns my dreams into flames of heat.
What kind of person am I—an engaged woman constantly fantasizing and lusting over her best friend?
When Kenneth is away, Brandon fills all my dangerous desires, even though we haven’t so much as kissed.
I'm torn between doing the right thing and following my heart.
If I make one wrong choice, I risk losing it all.
***This is a stand-alone second chance, friends-to-lovers romance.
You are cordially invited to witness the union of Jenna and Kenneth...
Isn’t it every woman’s dream to marry the perfect guy?
Mr. Tall, Dark, Rich, and Handsome, the one who waits for me at the altar, is that man.
It's what my family wants.
For a long time, it was what I thought I wanted, too.
Then I met Brandon, a ruggedly handsome guy with inked up sleeves, who turns my dreams into flames of heat.
What kind of person am I—an engaged woman constantly fantasizing and lusting over her best friend?
When Kenneth is away, Brandon fills all my dangerous desires, even though we haven’t so much as kissed.
I'm torn between doing the right thing and following my heart.
If I make one wrong choice, I risk losing it all.
***This is a stand-alone second chance, friends-to-lovers romance.
321 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 28, 2017
About the author
Terri E. Laine
68 books1,235 followersTerri E. Laine, USA Today bestselling author, left a lucrative career as a CPA to pursue her love for writing. Outside of her roles as a wife and mother of three, she’s always been a dreamer and as such became an avid reader at a young age.
Many years later, she got a crazy idea to write a novel and set out to try to publish it. With over a dozen titles published under various pen names, the rest is history. Her journey has been a blessing, and a dream realized. She looks forward to many more memories to come.
You can find more about her books at www.terrielaine.com.
Faceboook: www.facebook.com/TerriELaineAuthor
Twitter: www.twitter.com/TerriLaineBooks
Instagram: www.instragram.com/TerriLaineBooks
Amazon: http://amzn.to/1YUePk8
Website: www.terrielaine.com
Newsletter sign up --> http://eepurl.com/bDJ9kb
Many years later, she got a crazy idea to write a novel and set out to try to publish it. With over a dozen titles published under various pen names, the rest is history. Her journey has been a blessing, and a dream realized. She looks forward to many more memories to come.
You can find more about her books at www.terrielaine.com.
Faceboook: www.facebook.com/TerriELaineAuthor
Twitter: www.twitter.com/TerriLaineBooks
Instagram: www.instragram.com/TerriLaineBooks
Amazon: http://amzn.to/1YUePk8
Website: www.terrielaine.com
Newsletter sign up --> http://eepurl.com/bDJ9kb
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 87 reviews
March 5, 2017
3.5 stars
Jenna Rhodes is engaged and about to be married to Kenneth, the Senator's son, when she meets Brandon Connelly, a car mechanic with colourful tattoos on his arms. In the meanwhile they get to know each other, becoming friends, but this is something that turns into a struggle, for both of them. They will both face difficult situations that will bring them closer, but also pull them apart.
I really enjoyed One Wrong Choice and I had no idea that this was part of the Cruel & Beautiful series, but as soon as I started reading familiar names and situations I realised it right away. It was really nice to meet these characters and get to know what happened to them. I liked the love story between Jenna and Brandon, but it didn't wow me like Cate and Drew. I had a couple of issues with the whole situation, but mainly because I couldn't understand the reasons that were breaking them apart and then they were getting back together showing that they didn't care about the reasons that would keep them apart in the first place. It just seemed like unnecessary drama to me, like something else that happened and that one thing still had me on denial, even until the epilogue, I just couldn't believe that it was something that actually happened.
However I like books by these authors and I will keep reading more by them. I definitely liked the humor, the sexy scenes and the angst that they caused me.
ARC was kindly provided in exchange for an honest review.
"I've allowed myself to fall in love with the one woman in the world I can't have."
Jenna Rhodes is engaged and about to be married to Kenneth, the Senator's son, when she meets Brandon Connelly, a car mechanic with colourful tattoos on his arms. In the meanwhile they get to know each other, becoming friends, but this is something that turns into a struggle, for both of them. They will both face difficult situations that will bring them closer, but also pull them apart.
"I shouldn't want another man's lips on mine. But God help me, I do."
I really enjoyed One Wrong Choice and I had no idea that this was part of the Cruel & Beautiful series, but as soon as I started reading familiar names and situations I realised it right away. It was really nice to meet these characters and get to know what happened to them. I liked the love story between Jenna and Brandon, but it didn't wow me like Cate and Drew. I had a couple of issues with the whole situation, but mainly because I couldn't understand the reasons that were breaking them apart and then they were getting back together showing that they didn't care about the reasons that would keep them apart in the first place. It just seemed like unnecessary drama to me, like something else that happened and that one thing still had me on denial, even until the epilogue, I just couldn't believe that it was something that actually happened.
"We were never the wrong choice. We were the only one. "
However I like books by these authors and I will keep reading more by them. I definitely liked the humor, the sexy scenes and the angst that they caused me.
ARC was kindly provided in exchange for an honest review.
December 28, 2017
***ARC Provided by the Author and Social Butterfly***
I struggled with this book. A lot. And it has taken me a while to get to the review, as I really wasn't sure what I wanted to say about it.
The pacing of this one was all over the place. I was never quite sure how long it had been, where the action had let off or how long it had been. The timeline was also off, years had passed, but their ages had stayed the same, no one seemed to age, time passed for one character, but not for the other.
The sub plot with the brother and his girlfriend distracted from the story and at one point led me to almost putting the book down permanently, at about 80% in.
The characters, Jenna and Brandon, were not believable. And, while this was not technically an affair, there was nothing that actually happened, I do think the book had cheating...there are too many times in which you are told that both characters are engaged in an emotional affair.
The secondary characters were both distracting and frustrating. I got tired of the back and forth, mainly that Jenna put everyone through and was not really sure why they would want to be together.
The epilogue made it worse as it tossed in yet another thing that the characters had to overcome, after a litany of things that happened to them, lies, deaths, family drama, cheating, personal revelations...it was just all too much.
I do not recommend this book.
***This and other reviews featured on our blog “Booked All Night” http://bookedallnightblog.com/ and here: https://www.facebook.com/BookedAllNight/***
I struggled with this book. A lot. And it has taken me a while to get to the review, as I really wasn't sure what I wanted to say about it.
The pacing of this one was all over the place. I was never quite sure how long it had been, where the action had let off or how long it had been. The timeline was also off, years had passed, but their ages had stayed the same, no one seemed to age, time passed for one character, but not for the other.
The sub plot with the brother and his girlfriend distracted from the story and at one point led me to almost putting the book down permanently, at about 80% in.
The characters, Jenna and Brandon, were not believable. And, while this was not technically an affair, there was nothing that actually happened, I do think the book had cheating...there are too many times in which you are told that both characters are engaged in an emotional affair.
The secondary characters were both distracting and frustrating. I got tired of the back and forth, mainly that Jenna put everyone through and was not really sure why they would want to be together.
The epilogue made it worse as it tossed in yet another thing that the characters had to overcome, after a litany of things that happened to them, lies, deaths, family drama, cheating, personal revelations...it was just all too much.
I do not recommend this book.
***This and other reviews featured on our blog “Booked All Night” http://bookedallnightblog.com/ and here: https://www.facebook.com/BookedAllNight/***
October 28, 2017
I wanted to slap Jenna so many times! She kept chasing everyone over the H. And then she isn't even upset when she finds some guy balls deep in her fiancé that she has stuck with for years and put the man she really loves in the friend zone??? Ugh. The hero, Braedan is with OW but there is no detail and it's when they have feelings but are just friends because she's engaged. And him! Brandon would have just married Kym to help with his brother's baby? Really, after he finally had Jenna? Wtf? And she just takes him back after he tells her that RIGhT after they have sex?!?!? Ugh. Fucking NO! There is an epilogue years out but I was hoping for the miracle at the end, trying not to spoil here but who cares, I wanted Braedan. I hope he has amnesia and gets the next book. Does anyone know?
HEA for the main characters.
HEA for the main characters.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 5, 2021
Questo terzo capitolo non è all'altezza dei precedenti😔Che delusione 😔
March 1, 2017
*ARC provided in exchange for an honest review*
What happens when you're about to marry the "perfect" man, but your thoughts are on the tattooed sexy-as-sin hunk-of-a-man who has taken your breath away? Mind you, you're not even in love with the man you're about to walk down the aisle for. What would you do? Marry the sure-thing? Or, listen to your heart and jump?
These are some of the questions Jenna faces. Kenneth, Jenna's fiancé is everything she thought she wanted: tall, dark, handsome and rich. But, after her encounter with Brandon she is left to wonder, what if Mr. Right is in fact Mr. Wrong. Jenna and Brandon become fast friends, having countless lunch dates and dinners. At first, she doesn't think she's doing anything wrong because she could use a friend seeing as Kenneth works in a different state and she rarely sees him. She does feel guilty though for spending so much time with Brandon because, HELLO, she's engaged. Though, she can't deny what she feels when she's with Brandon. He brings out a different side to her and she likes the person she is when she's with him.
With Kenneth, there's more to him that meets-the-eye. I'm going to leave it at that because I don't want to give anything away. And don't even get me started with Jenna's mom. Oh boy, that woman is, I just...I'm not a violent person, but I seriously wanted to slap her. Ugh, she made me so mad!
Jenna made me angry though. I felt at times she was leading Brandon on. Her indecisiveness really bugged the hell out of me! That back-and-forth shit got on my nerves and gave me whiplash. Seriously, make up your damn mind!!! It was clear who she was in love with, I mean come on, woman-up and make the right choice.
OH MY GOSH did I ever love Brandon Connelly!!! A tall glass of ice water I would gladly drink in one gulp. That man, wowza *fans self* Seriously, so much hotness! I enjoyed this book and mainly more because of Brandon!!!
What happens when you're about to marry the "perfect" man, but your thoughts are on the tattooed sexy-as-sin hunk-of-a-man who has taken your breath away? Mind you, you're not even in love with the man you're about to walk down the aisle for. What would you do? Marry the sure-thing? Or, listen to your heart and jump?
These are some of the questions Jenna faces. Kenneth, Jenna's fiancé is everything she thought she wanted: tall, dark, handsome and rich. But, after her encounter with Brandon she is left to wonder, what if Mr. Right is in fact Mr. Wrong. Jenna and Brandon become fast friends, having countless lunch dates and dinners. At first, she doesn't think she's doing anything wrong because she could use a friend seeing as Kenneth works in a different state and she rarely sees him. She does feel guilty though for spending so much time with Brandon because, HELLO, she's engaged. Though, she can't deny what she feels when she's with Brandon. He brings out a different side to her and she likes the person she is when she's with him.
With Kenneth, there's more to him that meets-the-eye. I'm going to leave it at that because I don't want to give anything away. And don't even get me started with Jenna's mom. Oh boy, that woman is, I just...I'm not a violent person, but I seriously wanted to slap her. Ugh, she made me so mad!
Jenna made me angry though. I felt at times she was leading Brandon on. Her indecisiveness really bugged the hell out of me! That back-and-forth shit got on my nerves and gave me whiplash. Seriously, make up your damn mind!!! It was clear who she was in love with, I mean come on, woman-up and make the right choice.
OH MY GOSH did I ever love Brandon Connelly!!! A tall glass of ice water I would gladly drink in one gulp. That man, wowza *fans self* Seriously, so much hotness! I enjoyed this book and mainly more because of Brandon!!!
March 3, 2017
Taken on an emotional rollercoaster.
I was honestly up and down with One wrong choice all my emotions were pulled at one point or another in the plot.
Anger,frustration,sadness,joy,humor One wrong choice is definitely a read that gives you all the feels.
Great characters but I did sway a lot with Jenna and got frustrated.
A negative for me was the prologue it's like a huge spoiler of what is to come and for me it spoilt the story, I new exactly where the story was going I knew what was or wasn't going to happen. The prologue a big no, going from present to past and a big part in the plot it messed the surprise element for me I knew what was coming and couldn't understand why it was written Like that.
Regardless of knowing what was going to happen at some point in the plot, I followed Jenna and Brandon's journey.
Jenna dates then plans to marry a guy she isn't in love with for social standing for the family business but amongst all the planning mainly by her mother she has fallen in Love with Brandon.
Brandon is a hot tattood mechanic who entered her life when she needed a friend.
Torn between love and loyalty to her Mother. That's were I really got frustrated Brandon is a sweet,loving guy and she hurt him time and time again with her indecisions and forcing the just friends.
In a nut shell Jenna redeems herself but the journey is a bumpy one.
Brilliantly written by these two authors, all the emotions are covered, the plot although it got me riled is good told in dual povs and it leads to a hea.
Arc gratefully received for review purposes
Recommended read.
http://www.Bbbf-sizzlereads-bestbookb...
I was honestly up and down with One wrong choice all my emotions were pulled at one point or another in the plot.
Anger,frustration,sadness,joy,humor One wrong choice is definitely a read that gives you all the feels.
Great characters but I did sway a lot with Jenna and got frustrated.
A negative for me was the prologue it's like a huge spoiler of what is to come and for me it spoilt the story, I new exactly where the story was going I knew what was or wasn't going to happen. The prologue a big no, going from present to past and a big part in the plot it messed the surprise element for me I knew what was coming and couldn't understand why it was written Like that.
Regardless of knowing what was going to happen at some point in the plot, I followed Jenna and Brandon's journey.
Jenna dates then plans to marry a guy she isn't in love with for social standing for the family business but amongst all the planning mainly by her mother she has fallen in Love with Brandon.
Brandon is a hot tattood mechanic who entered her life when she needed a friend.
Torn between love and loyalty to her Mother. That's were I really got frustrated Brandon is a sweet,loving guy and she hurt him time and time again with her indecisions and forcing the just friends.
In a nut shell Jenna redeems herself but the journey is a bumpy one.
Brilliantly written by these two authors, all the emotions are covered, the plot although it got me riled is good told in dual povs and it leads to a hea.
Arc gratefully received for review purposes
Recommended read.
http://www.Bbbf-sizzlereads-bestbookb...
March 1, 2017
* A review copy was provided by the author for the Blog Tour *
~ 4 Not the Wrong Choice Stars ~
What lengths would you be willing to go to to help your family??
That’s the question that is raised and answered in One Wrong Choice.
So I have to be honest and say I really had a love/hate relationship with this book. One Wrong Choice is the third book in Terri E Laine and A.M. Hargrove’s Cruel and Beautiful Series. I have all the books in this series and I am sad to say this one wasn’t my favorite. Now that’s not to say I didn’t like the book, because I did, there was just one major aspect of the storyline that is a hard limit for me, so I kind of took away from the book and my overall enjoyment.
I would’ve loved to give this book 5 stars, because it had my heart racing, my heart breaking, my anger flowing and my panties melting. Which are all factors for a 5 star read for me. What took a star away for me was that, although not your typical love triangle, it had aspects of a triangle and that is what turned me off. One of the main reasons I don’t like a triangle in a story is because the heroine of the story tends to be wishy washy and usually pretty annoying and that is exactly what happened with Jenna ( the heroine ) by the end of the book I lost interest in Jenna and I couldn’t help but roll my eyes at her.
Now with that said let me tell you what I loved about this story. Brandon made this book for me. I absolutely loved him and his character. Not only is he a tatted mechanic with a hot body, he was loyal to a fault. He would do anything for Jenna, his mom and his younger brother. And yes he know how to melt a pair of panties. Now he isn’t without his flaws and brokenness, but he won my heart from the very first meeting of him. I couldn’t help but root for him to get the HEA.
I style love the writing style of Terri and A.M.. Their writing is seamless and flows together perfectly. I absolutely love when two authors join forces to create a story. What is truly remarkable is when their writing style mesh so well you can't tell who wrote what part. The flow of this story was amazing. These two authors know how to suck their readers into the story and keep them turning the pages until the very end. You can’t help but feel like you are a part of these characters lives.
Now I know I said this was a standalone novel and it is because it is based on a new couple. But the heroine of the story is someone we meet in the other books, so there is character overlap. Also the storylines kind of overlap in time with the other two books, so this is a series of books I feel need to be read in order. Because I believe book 2 (A Mess of A Man) and this book would be a HUGE spoiler for book 1 (Cruel and Beautiful). I will say the authors do an excellent job filling in the holes when needed, so if you don’t read the previous books you won’t be lost, you’ll just know what happens in those books.
I would recommend this book to anyone who doesn’t have trouble reading love triangles and loves a book with a lot of angst, because this book has plenty ;) I would also recommend this whole series to anyone who loves an emotional read, one that breaks your heart but in the end puts it back together.
Follow Us at :: Book Bitches Blog | Facebook | Twitter
~ 4 Not the Wrong Choice Stars ~
What lengths would you be willing to go to to help your family??
That’s the question that is raised and answered in One Wrong Choice.
So I have to be honest and say I really had a love/hate relationship with this book. One Wrong Choice is the third book in Terri E Laine and A.M. Hargrove’s Cruel and Beautiful Series. I have all the books in this series and I am sad to say this one wasn’t my favorite. Now that’s not to say I didn’t like the book, because I did, there was just one major aspect of the storyline that is a hard limit for me, so I kind of took away from the book and my overall enjoyment.
I would’ve loved to give this book 5 stars, because it had my heart racing, my heart breaking, my anger flowing and my panties melting. Which are all factors for a 5 star read for me. What took a star away for me was that, although not your typical love triangle, it had aspects of a triangle and that is what turned me off. One of the main reasons I don’t like a triangle in a story is because the heroine of the story tends to be wishy washy and usually pretty annoying and that is exactly what happened with Jenna ( the heroine ) by the end of the book I lost interest in Jenna and I couldn’t help but roll my eyes at her.
Now with that said let me tell you what I loved about this story. Brandon made this book for me. I absolutely loved him and his character. Not only is he a tatted mechanic with a hot body, he was loyal to a fault. He would do anything for Jenna, his mom and his younger brother. And yes he know how to melt a pair of panties. Now he isn’t without his flaws and brokenness, but he won my heart from the very first meeting of him. I couldn’t help but root for him to get the HEA.
I style love the writing style of Terri and A.M.. Their writing is seamless and flows together perfectly. I absolutely love when two authors join forces to create a story. What is truly remarkable is when their writing style mesh so well you can't tell who wrote what part. The flow of this story was amazing. These two authors know how to suck their readers into the story and keep them turning the pages until the very end. You can’t help but feel like you are a part of these characters lives.
Now I know I said this was a standalone novel and it is because it is based on a new couple. But the heroine of the story is someone we meet in the other books, so there is character overlap. Also the storylines kind of overlap in time with the other two books, so this is a series of books I feel need to be read in order. Because I believe book 2 (A Mess of A Man) and this book would be a HUGE spoiler for book 1 (Cruel and Beautiful). I will say the authors do an excellent job filling in the holes when needed, so if you don’t read the previous books you won’t be lost, you’ll just know what happens in those books.
I would recommend this book to anyone who doesn’t have trouble reading love triangles and loves a book with a lot of angst, because this book has plenty ;) I would also recommend this whole series to anyone who loves an emotional read, one that breaks your heart but in the end puts it back together.
Follow Us at :: Book Bitches Blog | Facebook | Twitter
February 14, 2017
Sometimes it's not all that hard to convince Brandon to come over to Jenna's, “cake, huh? I guess I can come over for some cake, as long as I get an extra large piece.” Jenna doesn't mind asking for help when she needs it, “how to properly suck a ***k. Like really do it right.” I liked this book really loved Brandon he had some patience where Jenna was concerned.
March 2, 2017
4 stars!! I love this series so much!!
This book can be read as a stand alone but I suggest reading the first two books in the "Cruel and Beautiful" series first. You get so much more back story and this just beautiful heart breaking and loving flow of a story of family & friends.
This book revolves around heart ache, trust and loyalty. This is a love story about Jenna and Brandon.
I think Jenna is a very strong woman but with that being said she is a little ignorant. I understood her dating Kenneth but beyond that when everything seem to come to light, how is any woman allowing someone to force a marriage over nothing. Especially after what she walked in on. But after all that I think everything turned out just perfect.
Brandon is so damn hot and has a heart the size of Texas. I was disappointed in him taking second place for awhile but damn he is loyal. I love the fact of who his father is was kept quite. Make them squirm!! My heart broke for him and I kept waiting for the next page to say "please come to the hospital we have a John Doe here you may know". My heart was so heavy. But I think it makes you realize how fast things can be taken away.
This book was perfectly written and had excellent character development. I love hearing and seeing characters from the previous books. So much heart break for this group of people but then so much love as well. The beginning of the book seem to not keep my interest as much and Jenna's back and forth was just a little too much for me but about half way through things changed for me and I couldn't put it down. This is a series you do not want to miss out on. And make sure you have a box of Kleenex nearby!!
** I received this book as an ARC and in return I gave my honest review**
This book can be read as a stand alone but I suggest reading the first two books in the "Cruel and Beautiful" series first. You get so much more back story and this just beautiful heart breaking and loving flow of a story of family & friends.
This book revolves around heart ache, trust and loyalty. This is a love story about Jenna and Brandon.
I think Jenna is a very strong woman but with that being said she is a little ignorant. I understood her dating Kenneth but beyond that when everything seem to come to light, how is any woman allowing someone to force a marriage over nothing. Especially after what she walked in on. But after all that I think everything turned out just perfect.
Brandon is so damn hot and has a heart the size of Texas. I was disappointed in him taking second place for awhile but damn he is loyal. I love the fact of who his father is was kept quite. Make them squirm!! My heart broke for him and I kept waiting for the next page to say "please come to the hospital we have a John Doe here you may know". My heart was so heavy. But I think it makes you realize how fast things can be taken away.
This book was perfectly written and had excellent character development. I love hearing and seeing characters from the previous books. So much heart break for this group of people but then so much love as well. The beginning of the book seem to not keep my interest as much and Jenna's back and forth was just a little too much for me but about half way through things changed for me and I couldn't put it down. This is a series you do not want to miss out on. And make sure you have a box of Kleenex nearby!!
** I received this book as an ARC and in return I gave my honest review**
March 15, 2017
☆☆Reviewed for Hooked On Books ☆ ☆
I gave this book 4.5 stars!
This book had me hooked from the beginning, I simply devour it in just a couple of hours and when I finally made it to the end I was wanting some much more of Brandon and Jenna. With that being said, at times in this book I wanted to throw my kindle because the way Jenna done Brandon and other times I was rooting for Jenna to rip her fiance a new one. I was very impressed with how A.M. wrote this book, many times in this book she could have taken it a different way but so glad she kept it real and honest.
Brandon is the typical bad boy, the one that is from the wrong part town and doesn't come from money. Jenna is down to earth with money. She is in a job that she really doesn't love but at the same time she is not going to quit to please her mother or her fiance. She meets Brandon when her car hits something in the road and starts making a noise, she ends up at Brandon's shop. When she is there she doesn't mean to have a mental break down, but that is what happens. Brandon and her form a friendship of the years and Brandon knows that he can't have more with her because she is engaged. Find out what happens when fate hands Brandon and Jenna a alternate course in their lives.
This a new author to me and I'm so glad that i have another author I can one click.
I gave this book 4.5 stars!
This book had me hooked from the beginning, I simply devour it in just a couple of hours and when I finally made it to the end I was wanting some much more of Brandon and Jenna. With that being said, at times in this book I wanted to throw my kindle because the way Jenna done Brandon and other times I was rooting for Jenna to rip her fiance a new one. I was very impressed with how A.M. wrote this book, many times in this book she could have taken it a different way but so glad she kept it real and honest.
Brandon is the typical bad boy, the one that is from the wrong part town and doesn't come from money. Jenna is down to earth with money. She is in a job that she really doesn't love but at the same time she is not going to quit to please her mother or her fiance. She meets Brandon when her car hits something in the road and starts making a noise, she ends up at Brandon's shop. When she is there she doesn't mean to have a mental break down, but that is what happens. Brandon and her form a friendship of the years and Brandon knows that he can't have more with her because she is engaged. Find out what happens when fate hands Brandon and Jenna a alternate course in their lives.
This a new author to me and I'm so glad that i have another author I can one click.
March 6, 2017
I was given one wrong choice by Am Hargrove and Terri e laine to review for hooked on books and cherryoblossoms promotions.
As soon as I picked up this book I was enthralled. We start with Jenna and she's about to marry Kenneth but her heart is not his it belongs to Brandon. The only problem is he is a tattooed mechanic that doesn't fit into the expected mould jennas mum has forced her to believe is what is required. We jump back to how she meets Brandon and how they try to fight their feelings for each other. I did hate Jenna at times because of the way she treated Brandon but as I continued to read on I did understand it more. I just hoped that their paths managed to cross at the right point so they can finally get their happy ending together. But will the lies and deceitful behaviour manage to come between them and be too much to deal with.
The emotions for this book was HUGE !! I was sucked in and had to start another book straight away as I knew I would easily find it hard to recover from. It hit me hard but I loved every minute.
As soon as I picked up this book I was enthralled. We start with Jenna and she's about to marry Kenneth but her heart is not his it belongs to Brandon. The only problem is he is a tattooed mechanic that doesn't fit into the expected mould jennas mum has forced her to believe is what is required. We jump back to how she meets Brandon and how they try to fight their feelings for each other. I did hate Jenna at times because of the way she treated Brandon but as I continued to read on I did understand it more. I just hoped that their paths managed to cross at the right point so they can finally get their happy ending together. But will the lies and deceitful behaviour manage to come between them and be too much to deal with.
The emotions for this book was HUGE !! I was sucked in and had to start another book straight away as I knew I would easily find it hard to recover from. It hit me hard but I loved every minute.
March 2, 2017
What great book written by two amazing authors. I loved this book wasn't sure how it was going to go with all the secrets and turns. Jenna and Kenneth have been together for a long time and at first their marriage was somthing now it's not even Co existing, Jenna has car trouble and stops at a garage where she just happens to break down on her mechanic Bradon, they soon develop a great friendship that could be so much more.
March 1, 2017
4.5 stars- review to come
March 2, 2017
I absolutely loved Cruel & Beautiful and really enjoyed A Mess Of A Man. Naturally I had high expectations on this story too. Needless to say, this book was well written because I didn't expect anything less from these great authors.
We've met Jenna in both previous books as Cate's best friend and Ben's sister. We got a glimpse into her life and knew there was something going on regarding her love life in those books. Now we finally get her full story and I was really excited for this.
The Story:
Jenna has the perfect boyfriend. Tall, dark, handsome and most importantly – especially to her mother – he’s rich. The perfect husband material. Of course she says yes when he asks her to marry him. Who wouldn’t? Though her thoughts trouble Jenna because she can’t seem to forget a certain someone with strong arms, tattoos and gorgeous eyes.
Brandon is everything that Jenna’s guy isn’t. He’s not rich, he doesn’t have the perfect family background and no high society status. So why can’t he get Jenna out of his head when he so obviously doesn’t fit into her life?
Since the day he met her, he has troubles to let go of her even though she was never his to begin with and there hasn’t been anything more than friendship between them.
Jenna has to make up her mind soon because he can’t keep waiting around for her forever. He isn’t the guy to wait for anyone but Jenna seems to have him wrapped tight around her finger.
The question now is, what will Jenna do? Can she cut Brandon loose and be happy with Kenneth? Or will she give in to her desire towards Brandon? Can she overcome the pressure from her mother and finally do what she wants and what her heart tells her to?
Thoughts:
The beginning of the story felt a bit rushed because I couldn't warm up to the idea of her crying herself out on a stranger's shoulder.
Jenna felt lonely and since she always had to be the strong one, she suddenly broke apart at this stranger's import car repair shop. With her best friend far away dealing with the loss of her husband and Kenneth gone a lot because of his job, she obviously felt the urge to talk to someone about her feelings.
I mean, I couldn't imagine crying at a strangers shoulder, but anyway she became best friends with this stranger without any further ado.
Jenna was honest from the beginning that she had a boyfriend and Brandon didn't lie about wanting her. I just don't know why they stayed in contact when this friendship was doomed from the beginning. He couldn't have her but he still waited around for her.
There might have been some instant connection between Jenna and Brandon that they felt the need to keep spinning around each other despite everything but I just didn’t feel it.
Color me surprised when years passed and Brandon was still waiting around for Jenna! I mean there wasn’t even a chance at that point that they would eventually end up together. So, why wait?
Anyway, I get that Jenna liked Brandon a lot because she could be herself around him and he had no expectations she had to fulfill. He listened to her and since she felt lonely she obviously clinged to him as he was the only one around.
I could've been wrong since it had been a while when I read C&B but I pegged Jenna for a strong and independent woman who doesn't let others dictate her life. Kind of. In this book though, we got to know her softer side. I just didn’t think that she would also be so indecisive and doesn't have the balls to stand up to certain people.
I wasn't really happy with the constant back and forth between Jenna and Brandon. The constant comparisons didn't help either because after a few times I just questioned why she still had no clue as to who she liked to be with. And what was so wrong with being seen in public with Brandon? I was really annoyed at Jenna because she didn't treat Brandon nicely.
Brandon was a good guy. He helped his mother finically and he did everything for his younger brother. Brandon cared a lot about Jenna and she always came first no matter if it hurt him because he was selfless enough to be there for her whenever she needed him.
To sum this long review up:
The writing was great, as always. The book was as emotional as we know their books to be from these authors. I enjoyed the second half of this book more than the first and I cried some happy and some sad tears during this read.
The story held some topics of society's standards and the pressure it pertains - the pressure and anticipation of our surroundings and the need to fit right in and impress others. It's about the lengths we would go for our loved ones to make them happy.
I was really happy to see my favorite characters of the previous books in this story again. It made me want to reread their stories.
I liked Brandon a lot and I loved the epilogue but he can't push Drew from his top spot on my book boyfriend list. =P
P.S.: I love Brutus!!! *haha*
-- I received an ARC of this book from Social Butterfly PR in exchange for an honest review. --
We've met Jenna in both previous books as Cate's best friend and Ben's sister. We got a glimpse into her life and knew there was something going on regarding her love life in those books. Now we finally get her full story and I was really excited for this.
The Story:
Jenna has the perfect boyfriend. Tall, dark, handsome and most importantly – especially to her mother – he’s rich. The perfect husband material. Of course she says yes when he asks her to marry him. Who wouldn’t? Though her thoughts trouble Jenna because she can’t seem to forget a certain someone with strong arms, tattoos and gorgeous eyes.
'I rotate my body so I can actually look at the guy, and holy fucking fireballs. The dude is slap-your-momma-bad-to-the-bone-hot-as-sin. Dark, dangerous, and delicious. Black hair, lots and lots of ink on his muscular arms, which makes me assume the rest of him is, too, and eyes, oh so seductive. Yes, badass. And then he grins. Of course he does, because he knows I'm snared by his beauty. His smile is a record holder. Full lips, straight teeth that could sparkle, and ... what the hell is wrong with me?'
Brandon is everything that Jenna’s guy isn’t. He’s not rich, he doesn’t have the perfect family background and no high society status. So why can’t he get Jenna out of his head when he so obviously doesn’t fit into her life?
'Townie princess, an apt description of Jenna Rhoades. She said she had to get to work, but she looked very much like a girl who only worked voluntarily.'
Since the day he met her, he has troubles to let go of her even though she was never his to begin with and there hasn’t been anything more than friendship between them.
Jenna has to make up her mind soon because he can’t keep waiting around for her forever. He isn’t the guy to wait for anyone but Jenna seems to have him wrapped tight around her finger.
The question now is, what will Jenna do? Can she cut Brandon loose and be happy with Kenneth? Or will she give in to her desire towards Brandon? Can she overcome the pressure from her mother and finally do what she wants and what her heart tells her to?
'”He's good to me. He's sweet, kind. He checks off all the boxes, you know?”
“Actually, I didn't know there were boxes.”
“Well,” she holds up her hand and starts counting off with her fingers, “he comes from a good family, went to the right schools, has a bright future. You know, the boxes that would make him a good husband in the future.”'
Thoughts:
The beginning of the story felt a bit rushed because I couldn't warm up to the idea of her crying herself out on a stranger's shoulder.
Jenna felt lonely and since she always had to be the strong one, she suddenly broke apart at this stranger's import car repair shop. With her best friend far away dealing with the loss of her husband and Kenneth gone a lot because of his job, she obviously felt the urge to talk to someone about her feelings.
I mean, I couldn't imagine crying at a strangers shoulder, but anyway she became best friends with this stranger without any further ado.
Jenna was honest from the beginning that she had a boyfriend and Brandon didn't lie about wanting her. I just don't know why they stayed in contact when this friendship was doomed from the beginning. He couldn't have her but he still waited around for her.
There might have been some instant connection between Jenna and Brandon that they felt the need to keep spinning around each other despite everything but I just didn’t feel it.
Color me surprised when years passed and Brandon was still waiting around for Jenna! I mean there wasn’t even a chance at that point that they would eventually end up together. So, why wait?
Anyway, I get that Jenna liked Brandon a lot because she could be herself around him and he had no expectations she had to fulfill. He listened to her and since she felt lonely she obviously clinged to him as he was the only one around.
'Spending time with and getting to know Brandon is a breath of fresh air. He has no expectations, other than for me to be myself. Climbing the social ladder means nothing to him, nor does being present in the company of the movers and shakers in town. I love this because we can sit around my house and do nothing but watch TV. There is no worrying about pleasing his dad or trying to impress others. He simply doesn't care about that.'
I could've been wrong since it had been a while when I read C&B but I pegged Jenna for a strong and independent woman who doesn't let others dictate her life. Kind of. In this book though, we got to know her softer side. I just didn’t think that she would also be so indecisive and doesn't have the balls to stand up to certain people.
I wasn't really happy with the constant back and forth between Jenna and Brandon. The constant comparisons didn't help either because after a few times I just questioned why she still had no clue as to who she liked to be with. And what was so wrong with being seen in public with Brandon? I was really annoyed at Jenna because she didn't treat Brandon nicely.
'Walking out the door is the hardest thing I've ever had to do. However, it's time I'm the man someone needs and can't live without, not the man someone just wants'
Brandon was a good guy. He helped his mother finically and he did everything for his younger brother. Brandon cared a lot about Jenna and she always came first no matter if it hurt him because he was selfless enough to be there for her whenever she needed him.
To sum this long review up:
The writing was great, as always. The book was as emotional as we know their books to be from these authors. I enjoyed the second half of this book more than the first and I cried some happy and some sad tears during this read.
The story held some topics of society's standards and the pressure it pertains - the pressure and anticipation of our surroundings and the need to fit right in and impress others. It's about the lengths we would go for our loved ones to make them happy.
I was really happy to see my favorite characters of the previous books in this story again. It made me want to reread their stories.
I liked Brandon a lot and I loved the epilogue but he can't push Drew from his top spot on my book boyfriend list. =P
P.S.: I love Brutus!!! *haha*
-- I received an ARC of this book from Social Butterfly PR in exchange for an honest review. --
March 3, 2017
I love the writing duo of AM Hargrove and Terri E Laine and their Cruel and Beautiful series had me engrossed with their stories from the beginning. When I knew that they would finally be coming out with Jenna's story I was more than excited. Jenna has always been there in the background quietly taking care of her best friends and brother, now she finally gets her time.
Jenna and Brandon have been friends since she brought took her car to him after it broke down. The attraction has also always been there but nothing has happened since Jenna has a boyfriend though they both have thought about what it could be. Especially since Jenna doesn't really want to be with her current boyfriend but Brandon is not really what she can take home to affluent southern family. Flashforward a few years now Jenna is engaged but Brandon is trying to step back from their friendship but finding it really difficult in their small town. Then when Jenna catches her fiance in an unspeakable act and breaks things off they know have their chance to find out if this is real, that is until outside forces start to interfere and break them up again. Can Jenna and Brandon finally make their way back to each other?
I really loved Jenna and Brandon - they forge a true friendship that is sometimes rare in these types of books. Told in dual POV's we get to see what they are really thinking and feeling as their relationship grows. I did find the back and forth in their relationship a little tiresome towards the end - especially on Jenna's part but when they finally get their moment the payoff is well done. I also enjoyed getting to see the other characters from the previous books - it was nice to see all of them and how they are doing, that was a great touch.
All in all, I really enjoyed this book and cant wait to see what this great writing duo has coming up next.
Jenna and Brandon have been friends since she brought took her car to him after it broke down. The attraction has also always been there but nothing has happened since Jenna has a boyfriend though they both have thought about what it could be. Especially since Jenna doesn't really want to be with her current boyfriend but Brandon is not really what she can take home to affluent southern family. Flashforward a few years now Jenna is engaged but Brandon is trying to step back from their friendship but finding it really difficult in their small town. Then when Jenna catches her fiance in an unspeakable act and breaks things off they know have their chance to find out if this is real, that is until outside forces start to interfere and break them up again. Can Jenna and Brandon finally make their way back to each other?
I really loved Jenna and Brandon - they forge a true friendship that is sometimes rare in these types of books. Told in dual POV's we get to see what they are really thinking and feeling as their relationship grows. I did find the back and forth in their relationship a little tiresome towards the end - especially on Jenna's part but when they finally get their moment the payoff is well done. I also enjoyed getting to see the other characters from the previous books - it was nice to see all of them and how they are doing, that was a great touch.
All in all, I really enjoyed this book and cant wait to see what this great writing duo has coming up next.
March 8, 2017
Another winner winnner chicken dinner from AM Hargrove. I at first felt for Jenna because of her situation. Trying to please the parents and make her mom happy while being miserable and feeling like your life isn’t really yours is tough. But than she meets Brandon and how she was with him had me growl. She yo-yo’d him. Seriously she knew he had feelings for her. She had them for him and yet she kept stringing him along. Just wanted to smack her upside the head especially when she would get mad when seeing him with a woman. She was engaged for pete’s sake and didn’t have a right to lay claim.
Brandon was awesome. I mean seriously crisscross awesome sauce. He was kind, honest, hard working, caring and loyal. He had feelings for Jenna but respected her position and was faithful to her as well. I loved his loyalty but it also was what kept him tethered to Jenna. He for all the time they knew each other never gave up on her. Even when it was bleak he didn’t give up. A book boyfriend for sure. He was so gorgeous and even though he didn’t seem it he was a softy and family guy.
the moment that I had the jaw drop was Kenneth in the bedroom. Wow just wow. That is when Jenna finally grew some. But she got guilted and she wilted fast. Her mom truly was snobby. Glad the dad took care of that fast. Jenna’s brother was cool as well. I loved how he helped Brandon with his business. And in the end Jenna did as well. the most heartbreaking moment is the tragedy Brandon and his mom have in their world. It is shattered and we see Brandon be swallowed by grief. Jenna is there for him but they almost lose their way due to a sense of duty Brandon feels.
the attraction between Brandon and Jenna was through the roof. Moments in time that they had were wonderful. They began as friends and became more over time. They gained faith, trust and respect for each other. We see Brandon as the truly swoony great guy he was.
This is the bewitching and stimulating story of Brandon and Jenna. How brandon finds his one and waits for her. How he matures but also gains perspective on things and grows his business. How he has terrible loss that will break your heart and see this have him almost lose love due to the desire to be responsible. How Jenna finds herself and courage to go after what she wants. How she is their for Brandon when his world turns dark and his family have tragedy. How she sees that Brandon doesn’t use his parentage to move up but does it on his own merits. How she falls in love and how they both fight for that love and to be together. A wonderfully written beautiful story where you will feel so many things but in the end you are smiling for love prevails after journey that isn’t easy for Brandon and Jenna in them finding their way to bet together and happy.
Brandon was awesome. I mean seriously crisscross awesome sauce. He was kind, honest, hard working, caring and loyal. He had feelings for Jenna but respected her position and was faithful to her as well. I loved his loyalty but it also was what kept him tethered to Jenna. He for all the time they knew each other never gave up on her. Even when it was bleak he didn’t give up. A book boyfriend for sure. He was so gorgeous and even though he didn’t seem it he was a softy and family guy.
the moment that I had the jaw drop was Kenneth in the bedroom. Wow just wow. That is when Jenna finally grew some. But she got guilted and she wilted fast. Her mom truly was snobby. Glad the dad took care of that fast. Jenna’s brother was cool as well. I loved how he helped Brandon with his business. And in the end Jenna did as well. the most heartbreaking moment is the tragedy Brandon and his mom have in their world. It is shattered and we see Brandon be swallowed by grief. Jenna is there for him but they almost lose their way due to a sense of duty Brandon feels.
the attraction between Brandon and Jenna was through the roof. Moments in time that they had were wonderful. They began as friends and became more over time. They gained faith, trust and respect for each other. We see Brandon as the truly swoony great guy he was.
This is the bewitching and stimulating story of Brandon and Jenna. How brandon finds his one and waits for her. How he matures but also gains perspective on things and grows his business. How he has terrible loss that will break your heart and see this have him almost lose love due to the desire to be responsible. How Jenna finds herself and courage to go after what she wants. How she is their for Brandon when his world turns dark and his family have tragedy. How she sees that Brandon doesn’t use his parentage to move up but does it on his own merits. How she falls in love and how they both fight for that love and to be together. A wonderfully written beautiful story where you will feel so many things but in the end you are smiling for love prevails after journey that isn’t easy for Brandon and Jenna in them finding their way to bet together and happy.
March 9, 2017
I had quite the relationship with this book. It started with the blurb, I was sold! I love a good best friend romance, and add on to the a love triangle of crazy sorts and you knew I was going to have to read it. This book was like touching on two opposite ends of the spectrum at once, there were some points where I was seriously irritated enough I considered putting it down, on the other hand it gave me a book boyfriend that will probably rank on my top list for this year. I had to take a couple days after reading One Wrong Choice just to get my mind straight on what I was thinking.
Brandon, oh my Brandon, my tattooed sexy as sin mechanic. Not only was he totally swoon worthy, and MAN OH MAN was he ever! He was a complete sweet heart, he was a sucker for Jenna the second she walked into his shop. Every girl wants a guy who will do absolutely everything to make them happy, even if they are just friends, and Brandon was that guy. However, he couldn’t lie to either of them and pretend that he didn’t have feelings for Jenna.
Jenna, oh Jenna…you irritated me SO FREAKING MUCH!!! I really dislike indecisive heroines. I understand that part of this book is the back and forth, but really there is only so much I can take without throwing my kindle at the wall. Jenna is a smart, beautiful, rich girl. And it is all about the money and the social status, if not for her at least for her parents. Kenneth, her fiance, has all of that, not to mention their families are connected through business. But in all seriousness Jenna, I wanted to smack you a good couple times! Just make up your mind and stick with it.
By the end of the book I had gotten over most of my dislike of Jenna. As finally it seemed to have taken a turn for the better. I really did enjoy Jenna and Brandon together as a couple, I think that they were the perfect match from the start. I just wish Jenna had been a little bit stronger of a character, but I guess I can’t always have everything I want. My biggest problem with this book, though, was the fact that I felt like it was a book of multiple endings. The way the last quarter ( maybe a little less) of the book was written was just ending after ending. There were multiple places that One Wrong Choice could have ended, and I felt like it was going to, and then up popped something else. It was frustrating, I would come to a point in the storyline and think “okay, this is it, I’m okay with it ending like this” and then bam something else had to get thrown onto the storyline. I think that it just took away from the overall story. Had it flowed a little bit better maybe it would have been more enjoyable.
Overall, I didn’t hate this book. I know looking at my review you probably think I did, but I didn’t. I just didn’t love it, it had a great pretense and good ideas, I just think overall it could have been put together a little bit better. If you enjoy a best friends romance and are looking for a book to fire you up, as it very much did me, I would definitely recommend checking this one out.
Overall Rating: 3/5 Stars
Brandon, oh my Brandon, my tattooed sexy as sin mechanic. Not only was he totally swoon worthy, and MAN OH MAN was he ever! He was a complete sweet heart, he was a sucker for Jenna the second she walked into his shop. Every girl wants a guy who will do absolutely everything to make them happy, even if they are just friends, and Brandon was that guy. However, he couldn’t lie to either of them and pretend that he didn’t have feelings for Jenna.
Jenna, oh Jenna…you irritated me SO FREAKING MUCH!!! I really dislike indecisive heroines. I understand that part of this book is the back and forth, but really there is only so much I can take without throwing my kindle at the wall. Jenna is a smart, beautiful, rich girl. And it is all about the money and the social status, if not for her at least for her parents. Kenneth, her fiance, has all of that, not to mention their families are connected through business. But in all seriousness Jenna, I wanted to smack you a good couple times! Just make up your mind and stick with it.
By the end of the book I had gotten over most of my dislike of Jenna. As finally it seemed to have taken a turn for the better. I really did enjoy Jenna and Brandon together as a couple, I think that they were the perfect match from the start. I just wish Jenna had been a little bit stronger of a character, but I guess I can’t always have everything I want. My biggest problem with this book, though, was the fact that I felt like it was a book of multiple endings. The way the last quarter ( maybe a little less) of the book was written was just ending after ending. There were multiple places that One Wrong Choice could have ended, and I felt like it was going to, and then up popped something else. It was frustrating, I would come to a point in the storyline and think “okay, this is it, I’m okay with it ending like this” and then bam something else had to get thrown onto the storyline. I think that it just took away from the overall story. Had it flowed a little bit better maybe it would have been more enjoyable.
Overall, I didn’t hate this book. I know looking at my review you probably think I did, but I didn’t. I just didn’t love it, it had a great pretense and good ideas, I just think overall it could have been put together a little bit better. If you enjoy a best friends romance and are looking for a book to fire you up, as it very much did me, I would definitely recommend checking this one out.
Overall Rating: 3/5 Stars
December 28, 2021
The partnership between these two authors is just amazing. It's been my third read from them and I really enjoyed this book. They have a way with words like no other and I'm looking forward to the next book they'll write together.
Jenna thinks she has it all. A good solid job, a great family and a wonderful boyfriend. But when she meets Brandon, she feels that instant connection and she starts to doubt her relationship with Kenneth. She doesn't know what to do and her feelings for Brandon start to grow. But both will do anything to not reciprocate to what they feel but it's easier said then done. The more time they spend together, the more it gets harder not to give in. But life isn't always what it seems and when something finally seems to happen, Jenna will have to decide what she really wants...
*Definitely a 4-4,5 star read for me**
Jenna thinks she has it all. A good solid job, a great family and a wonderful boyfriend. But when she meets Brandon, she feels that instant connection and she starts to doubt her relationship with Kenneth. She doesn't know what to do and her feelings for Brandon start to grow. But both will do anything to not reciprocate to what they feel but it's easier said then done. The more time they spend together, the more it gets harder not to give in. But life isn't always what it seems and when something finally seems to happen, Jenna will have to decide what she really wants...
*Definitely a 4-4,5 star read for me**
March 2, 2017
One Wrong Choice is the final book in the Cruel and Beautiful series. Yet, it is a standalone.
OH MY!! Let me say my emotions were all over the place while reading this. Never knowing what was coming next. The duo of Hargrove and Laine have AMAZED me!
When we first meet Jenna she's in a very strange relationship with Kenneth (a senators son). When Jenna has car trouble, she meets Brandon. And so begins years of a long lustfilled friendship. However boundaries are never crossed as much as you can tell they want them to. When Kenneth's secrets become exposed, can that give Jenna and Brandon the chance they need?
One Wrong Choice has it all... Comedy, drama, sexy hot sex scenes, and a totally unexpected twist. I definitely recommend reading it. It won't be One Wrong Choice if you do!
*I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC of One Wrong Choice.*
OH MY!! Let me say my emotions were all over the place while reading this. Never knowing what was coming next. The duo of Hargrove and Laine have AMAZED me!
When we first meet Jenna she's in a very strange relationship with Kenneth (a senators son). When Jenna has car trouble, she meets Brandon. And so begins years of a long lustfilled friendship. However boundaries are never crossed as much as you can tell they want them to. When Kenneth's secrets become exposed, can that give Jenna and Brandon the chance they need?
One Wrong Choice has it all... Comedy, drama, sexy hot sex scenes, and a totally unexpected twist. I definitely recommend reading it. It won't be One Wrong Choice if you do!
*I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC of One Wrong Choice.*
March 4, 2017
One Wrong Choice is about Jenna and Brandon. In the prologue, we find Jenna changing her mind about going through with her marriage to Kenneth. Brandon rushes in and tries to get her to realize that she can't marry someone she doesn't love. Then he receives a call that has him running off...so begins a story that sucked me in and didn't let go.
We go back in time to how they meet. On her way in to work, Jenna runs over something in the road and her car starts making a terrible sound. She sees an import repair shop, and pulls in to have her car looked at. When Brandon comes out to greet her, all her personal and business problems come crashing down and she has a panic attack. Brandon takes her to his office and helps her get through it. When he ends up fixing her car at no charge, she offers him dinner for all he did (for her car and for her panic attack). He accepts, and at that dinner, she drops the bomb - she has a boyfriend. He wants to know why she asked him to dinner if she's taken. She doesn't really have an answer - she just had to. Something pulls them together. They have a great connection, become best friends, and no matter how much he wants her and how much she thinks about him, they never cross any lines.
I can't really say much more without giving away the story, so I'll stop there. Though the blurb seems like this is a love triangle, it really is not. And there is no cheating. The authors have made this very clear and I am as well. It's a story that makes you ask yourself how far would you go to make the person you love happy? What would you do to make your family happy? What if a choice you make is the wrong one and ruins everything? This was a story of so many emotions - happiness, sadness, longing, anger, resentment, tragedy, heartbreak, sweet romance, steamy love scenes, even some super funny moments. I will admit to being very angry with both Jenna and Brandon at different points, but don't give up. Read it all and find out what happens. And we also get to read more about the characters from The Cruel and Beautiful Series (Cruel and Beautiful & A Mess of a Man).
We go back in time to how they meet. On her way in to work, Jenna runs over something in the road and her car starts making a terrible sound. She sees an import repair shop, and pulls in to have her car looked at. When Brandon comes out to greet her, all her personal and business problems come crashing down and she has a panic attack. Brandon takes her to his office and helps her get through it. When he ends up fixing her car at no charge, she offers him dinner for all he did (for her car and for her panic attack). He accepts, and at that dinner, she drops the bomb - she has a boyfriend. He wants to know why she asked him to dinner if she's taken. She doesn't really have an answer - she just had to. Something pulls them together. They have a great connection, become best friends, and no matter how much he wants her and how much she thinks about him, they never cross any lines.
I can't really say much more without giving away the story, so I'll stop there. Though the blurb seems like this is a love triangle, it really is not. And there is no cheating. The authors have made this very clear and I am as well. It's a story that makes you ask yourself how far would you go to make the person you love happy? What would you do to make your family happy? What if a choice you make is the wrong one and ruins everything? This was a story of so many emotions - happiness, sadness, longing, anger, resentment, tragedy, heartbreak, sweet romance, steamy love scenes, even some super funny moments. I will admit to being very angry with both Jenna and Brandon at different points, but don't give up. Read it all and find out what happens. And we also get to read more about the characters from The Cruel and Beautiful Series (Cruel and Beautiful & A Mess of a Man).
June 7, 2021
3,5
Un tira e molla pazzesco
Lei rimane egoista
La madre non parliamone
Brandon e Breadon molta fantasia nei nomi ma Brandon è tanta roba
Un tira e molla pazzesco
Lei rimane egoista
La madre non parliamone
Brandon e Breadon molta fantasia nei nomi ma Brandon è tanta roba
March 26, 2017
*ARC received in return for an honest review
Once again A.M. Hargrove & Terri E. Laine have pulled another 5* winner out of their bag.
One Wrong Choice is the last in the Cruel & Beautiful series and what a mixed bag of emotions it was! I have followed these characters from the very beginning,I've become very attached to them and I'm quite sad that their journey is ending but what a perfect finish to a fabulous series. I FLOVED it!!!
If you've been following this series you'll know that One Wrong Choice is Jenna and Brandon's story and, although it can be read as a standalone I'd recommend you read the books in order to get a better understanding, and feel, of the characters and their backstories.
This book has all the feels. As what has become typical with this series, I was hooked from the prologue, I couldn't put it down. I have laughed 'til I cried, sobbed, shouted in frustration so many times and sighed my way through Jenna & Brandon's story.
Jenna & Brandon were perfect for each other, the chemistry between them passionate and deeply heart felt. They were so good together but there were times I wanted to shake the pair of them, tell them to get a grip, ignore outside influences and sort things out between them.
I felt like shouting and hurling my kindle at the wall in frustration over the way Brandon appeared to be a bit of a doormat, (albeit a very sexy doormat!) seeming to always be putting others first. I wanted him to finally shout, 'Enough is enough!' to all those who didn't seem to notice how their wants and needs were getting in the way of him living his own life the way he wanted it. I mean how much can one man take, especially one as lovable and gorgeous as him, maannn he was hot! *swoons*
Jenna's deep-rooted sense of family values and loyalties was very admirable but, like Brandon, she allowed them to get in the way of what she really wanted. Her mother was so controlling and vile to Jenna that I got quite angry, damn I wanted to throat punch that woman!!
It was obvious the couple were meant for each other but with all the obstacles they allowed to be placed in their way, will they finally put themselves first? Or will they push their feelings aside for the sake of others?
I loved Brandon, who wouldn't? A tattooed, muscular mechanic who's good with his...hands and big ALL over but it was his younger brother who snuck his way into my heart. He had a cheeky way about him which endeared him to me.
My heart broke for so many different reasons and, although it was the best ending, I was sad for some part of it.
But even though there is some sadness in the book, there are some very, very funny scenes, the 'silicone lip treatment' scene being just one, which I laughed out loud at. Hilarious!
I can't get enough of the writing talents of this duo, they create the perfect mix of tension-filled drama, angst, humour and enduring love capable of surviving anything with a LOT of hot passion to keep you gripped from start to finish. You become addicted to their wonderful characters in a way that you can't help thinking about them long after their story has ended. Picking up one of their books is like popping open a tube of Pringles, once you start you just can't stop, you have to move on to the next one. I really can't wait to see what they bring us next.
Make One Wrong Choice your next read, you won't be disappointed, I definitely wasn't!
Once again A.M. Hargrove & Terri E. Laine have pulled another 5* winner out of their bag.
One Wrong Choice is the last in the Cruel & Beautiful series and what a mixed bag of emotions it was! I have followed these characters from the very beginning,I've become very attached to them and I'm quite sad that their journey is ending but what a perfect finish to a fabulous series. I FLOVED it!!!
If you've been following this series you'll know that One Wrong Choice is Jenna and Brandon's story and, although it can be read as a standalone I'd recommend you read the books in order to get a better understanding, and feel, of the characters and their backstories.
This book has all the feels. As what has become typical with this series, I was hooked from the prologue, I couldn't put it down. I have laughed 'til I cried, sobbed, shouted in frustration so many times and sighed my way through Jenna & Brandon's story.
Jenna & Brandon were perfect for each other, the chemistry between them passionate and deeply heart felt. They were so good together but there were times I wanted to shake the pair of them, tell them to get a grip, ignore outside influences and sort things out between them.
I felt like shouting and hurling my kindle at the wall in frustration over the way Brandon appeared to be a bit of a doormat, (albeit a very sexy doormat!) seeming to always be putting others first. I wanted him to finally shout, 'Enough is enough!' to all those who didn't seem to notice how their wants and needs were getting in the way of him living his own life the way he wanted it. I mean how much can one man take, especially one as lovable and gorgeous as him, maannn he was hot! *swoons*
Jenna's deep-rooted sense of family values and loyalties was very admirable but, like Brandon, she allowed them to get in the way of what she really wanted. Her mother was so controlling and vile to Jenna that I got quite angry, damn I wanted to throat punch that woman!!
It was obvious the couple were meant for each other but with all the obstacles they allowed to be placed in their way, will they finally put themselves first? Or will they push their feelings aside for the sake of others?
I loved Brandon, who wouldn't? A tattooed, muscular mechanic who's good with his...hands and big ALL over but it was his younger brother who snuck his way into my heart. He had a cheeky way about him which endeared him to me.
My heart broke for so many different reasons and, although it was the best ending, I was sad for some part of it.
But even though there is some sadness in the book, there are some very, very funny scenes, the 'silicone lip treatment' scene being just one, which I laughed out loud at. Hilarious!
I can't get enough of the writing talents of this duo, they create the perfect mix of tension-filled drama, angst, humour and enduring love capable of surviving anything with a LOT of hot passion to keep you gripped from start to finish. You become addicted to their wonderful characters in a way that you can't help thinking about them long after their story has ended. Picking up one of their books is like popping open a tube of Pringles, once you start you just can't stop, you have to move on to the next one. I really can't wait to see what they bring us next.
Make One Wrong Choice your next read, you won't be disappointed, I definitely wasn't!
March 1, 2017
This might be the final book in the series but as the blurb indicates it stands well on its own so if you haven’t read the other books, you don’t have to necessarily rush out and read them first but I would say give them a go when you get the chance because the whole series has been superb.
I liked Jenna, she was a stand tall type of woman who seemed to be happy with the life that she had forged for herself. She works hard and plays hard too, making sure that she is not reliant on anyone to provide the things she needs in her life, despite the fact that she is married to a handsome, rich man. Being engaged to Kenneth seemed to be more about what her mother wanted for her.
But could she step out from the shadow and expectation of her family and take the direction that I think she wanted for herself because after meeting Brandon, he was the owner of the garage that she took her car too, I just knew that she was with the wrong guy.
In a way I sort of felt sorry for her, her happiness seemed to be secondary to everyone around her other than Brandon and for them both I got the impression that it was their friendship that they valued most. I couldn’t help but wonder just how much I would be prepared to accept in the understanding that it was everyone else that I was keeping happy more so than myself. I admired their determination and dedication to the wants and needs of their families because Jenna wasn’t alone in that respect because Brandon too had family pressures weighing heavily on him.
The story covered just about every base and every emotion, it was touching yet tough, happy yet harrowing and loaded with so much angst and attitude that I not only laughed but cried as the story left me bruised but happy.
I liked Jenna, she was a stand tall type of woman who seemed to be happy with the life that she had forged for herself. She works hard and plays hard too, making sure that she is not reliant on anyone to provide the things she needs in her life, despite the fact that she is married to a handsome, rich man. Being engaged to Kenneth seemed to be more about what her mother wanted for her.
But could she step out from the shadow and expectation of her family and take the direction that I think she wanted for herself because after meeting Brandon, he was the owner of the garage that she took her car too, I just knew that she was with the wrong guy.
In a way I sort of felt sorry for her, her happiness seemed to be secondary to everyone around her other than Brandon and for them both I got the impression that it was their friendship that they valued most. I couldn’t help but wonder just how much I would be prepared to accept in the understanding that it was everyone else that I was keeping happy more so than myself. I admired their determination and dedication to the wants and needs of their families because Jenna wasn’t alone in that respect because Brandon too had family pressures weighing heavily on him.
The story covered just about every base and every emotion, it was touching yet tough, happy yet harrowing and loaded with so much angst and attitude that I not only laughed but cried as the story left me bruised but happy.
March 1, 2017
I have LOVED every single installment in this series. But while C&B and MOAM were sobfests for me, One Wrong Choice was more of an angst-filled forbidden love affair. You can't help who you are attracted to, or fall in love with. And while Kenneth checks off every box on Jenna's list (or, rather, her mom's) he just doesn't make her heart skip a beat the way that mechanic Brandon does. Sure, he owns his business, but a senator's son is a much better match for this socialite. Except that Kenneth is so wrong for Jenna in every single way, and Brandon is sooo right!
Brandon really does have the patience is a saint, because Jenna puts him through the wringer! I loved that they remain best friends, and they never cross any lines while Jenna is involved with Kenneth. And I think that's what made me root for Brandon to get the girl so much more!
"How far have I fallen? I've allowed myself to fall in love with the one woman in the world I cannot have."
"She means more to me than my happiness, so I do what I can to fix things for her."
Oh, Brandon!
Hargrove and Laine always craft AMAZING tales, and OWC did not disappoint. Plus, we get lots of appearances from Cate, Drew, Ben and Sam! The authors perfectly strike the delicate balance of having the other characters from this series involved with Jenna, but not overwhelming to the point where they take away from it being Jenna's story. And if you haven't read the other books in the series, it is a standalone so don't worry about not knowing the backstory. So read OWC, then go get yourself Cruel & Beautiful and Mess Of A Man!!
I received and advance copy and voluntarily left a review.
Brandon really does have the patience is a saint, because Jenna puts him through the wringer! I loved that they remain best friends, and they never cross any lines while Jenna is involved with Kenneth. And I think that's what made me root for Brandon to get the girl so much more!
"How far have I fallen? I've allowed myself to fall in love with the one woman in the world I cannot have."
"She means more to me than my happiness, so I do what I can to fix things for her."
Oh, Brandon!
Hargrove and Laine always craft AMAZING tales, and OWC did not disappoint. Plus, we get lots of appearances from Cate, Drew, Ben and Sam! The authors perfectly strike the delicate balance of having the other characters from this series involved with Jenna, but not overwhelming to the point where they take away from it being Jenna's story. And if you haven't read the other books in the series, it is a standalone so don't worry about not knowing the backstory. So read OWC, then go get yourself Cruel & Beautiful and Mess Of A Man!!
I received and advance copy and voluntarily left a review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 2, 2017
I received a complimentary copy of this book through Crazy Cajun Book Addicts for an honest review.
I love anything these two ladies write separately but when they get together it's pure magic. The storyline and great characters they create completely pull you in, emotions run high as you foolow the journey which you hope will lead them to the life they long for.
What do you do when your due to be married but the man your marrying isn't the love of your life and your heart resides with someone else?
That's the dilemma Jenna is facing. She's doing what she thinks is right for her family marrying Kenneth, he's from an influential family and comes from old money he's everything her mother wants for her.
On the other hand theres Brandon he's one of her best friend's he's a sexy tattooed mechanic, he's also in love with her if only he could make her see he's the one she should be with. When secrets and lies come to light will Jenna make the right choice and follow her heart?
This is book 3 in the Cruel and Beautiful Series and I would definitely recommend you read them I'm order.
I love anything these two ladies write separately but when they get together it's pure magic. The storyline and great characters they create completely pull you in, emotions run high as you foolow the journey which you hope will lead them to the life they long for.
What do you do when your due to be married but the man your marrying isn't the love of your life and your heart resides with someone else?
That's the dilemma Jenna is facing. She's doing what she thinks is right for her family marrying Kenneth, he's from an influential family and comes from old money he's everything her mother wants for her.
On the other hand theres Brandon he's one of her best friend's he's a sexy tattooed mechanic, he's also in love with her if only he could make her see he's the one she should be with. When secrets and lies come to light will Jenna make the right choice and follow her heart?
This is book 3 in the Cruel and Beautiful Series and I would definitely recommend you read them I'm order.
February 28, 2017
Either combining their talent for story telling together or separates, they give me one heck of a ride, that's for sure. While reading one of their stories, I always get to feel many emotions. This 4 star story gave me intense feelings.
Jenna and Brandon have been circulating around each other for years. They started out has friends, then they were attracted to each other. It was never the right time for them. It was a story of cat and mouse chase.
This well written story was full of angst and drama. I wanted to throw my kindle at Jenna quite a few times. I hated Jenna to stringing Brandon along, she never could make up her mind. She didn't know what she wanted. They shared quite a few scorching hot steamy scenes though. There are some twists and turns that left speechless. There is no cheating and there is a promise of an HEA. Story was told in a dual POV.
March 1, 2017
One Wrong Choice is a very emotional roller coaster. It is about learning what love really means and its value. Not to be thrown into something just because everyone else expects it. One Wrong Choice helps you learn to choose to be FREE! I was all over the place with this book. I could not for one moment attempt to put the book down. Which reminds me, I am too old to put in all nighters.. Ha!
Now to the book, with no spoilers in my review. Oh Jenna, Jenna, Jenna. I was hoping I could just reach in the book and show her the way. She is already invested so much time with Kenneth. And then boom...here is Brandon. I felt that for Jenna he literally made her come back to life. Had every nerve she has burn. And it just gets hotter and then more complicated. I think I cussed and screamed a couple of times when I wanted everything to go my way.
The sexy scenes are out of this world. The ability to go on this journey with Jenna was just amazing. I think a time or two fate intervenes so you can be living that life that is meant to be and not planned. I love when these two authors write together. They bring you amazing stories!!!
Now to the book, with no spoilers in my review. Oh Jenna, Jenna, Jenna. I was hoping I could just reach in the book and show her the way. She is already invested so much time with Kenneth. And then boom...here is Brandon. I felt that for Jenna he literally made her come back to life. Had every nerve she has burn. And it just gets hotter and then more complicated. I think I cussed and screamed a couple of times when I wanted everything to go my way.
The sexy scenes are out of this world. The ability to go on this journey with Jenna was just amazing. I think a time or two fate intervenes so you can be living that life that is meant to be and not planned. I love when these two authors write together. They bring you amazing stories!!!
March 5, 2017
Brandon and Jenna's love story leaves you longing, hoping, and at times down right frustrated with their circumstances preventing them to be together even though it is very apparent how right they are for each other. Jenna is the epitome of old fashioned Southern wealth while Brandon is the tatted up mechanic that each other feel this strong pull to attempt trying only to be friends, nothing more.
The prologue hooked me in right off the bat! I got frustrated as the plot went on with Brandon and Jenna skirting around their true feelings for each other. Although I understand most of the frustration was important to the plot, it also annoyed me at times. This is my first book that I have read in the series, and I do want to go back and read the prior two books to understand more about the different characters. In the end its a great book and I would definitely recommend to my friends!
The prologue hooked me in right off the bat! I got frustrated as the plot went on with Brandon and Jenna skirting around their true feelings for each other. Although I understand most of the frustration was important to the plot, it also annoyed me at times. This is my first book that I have read in the series, and I do want to go back and read the prior two books to understand more about the different characters. In the end its a great book and I would definitely recommend to my friends!
March 6, 2017
After reading Cruel & Beautiful over a year ago, a story that moved me so much I had to re read it 3 times that one weekend, I decided to re read it this weekend, along with A Mess Of A Man prior to One Wrong Choice and I am so happy that I did.
I had a great time catching up with Cate, Jenna and Ben and really loved sharing their journey in finding their special someone and I will miss this trio of friends, their lives, their tribulations and heartbreaks whilst on the pursuit to happiness and finding their own special someone.
I loved this series and for that, these books will always be 5 Stars.
I had a great time catching up with Cate, Jenna and Ben and really loved sharing their journey in finding their special someone and I will miss this trio of friends, their lives, their tribulations and heartbreaks whilst on the pursuit to happiness and finding their own special someone.
I loved this series and for that, these books will always be 5 Stars.
March 1, 2017
I thought this was an interesting read and it wasn't like something I have read before . While reading the blurb I did know how I would fell going into this but I was so glade I gave it a chance . This was such a roller coaster of emotions felt bad for Jenna and Brandon they have an instant attraction but never cross the line and when they become close to finally getting together something happens that stops it before it goes to far but the intenseness is still there . But the couple sometimes did frustrate me at times they new in their heart that they were meant to be together but they were to afraid to do anything , but over all this was a great read .
copy provided for honest review
****************************************
hero = 10
heroine = 9
secondary characters = 10
chemistry = 9
steam = 9
character development =10
pacing = 10
enjoyment =9
writing style =10
storyline =10
romance =8
darkness level =5
humor =5
pov=
cover =10
stars = 4
authors = 8
would I recommend this book =yes
would I re read this book = yes
would I read future books by this author = yes
copy provided for honest review
****************************************
hero = 10
heroine = 9
secondary characters = 10
chemistry = 9
steam = 9
character development =10
pacing = 10
enjoyment =9
writing style =10
storyline =10
romance =8
darkness level =5
humor =5
pov=
cover =10
stars = 4
authors = 8
would I recommend this book =yes
would I re read this book = yes
would I read future books by this author = yes
Displaying 1 - 30 of 87 reviews