Hackaroo's Reviews

Tuesday, February 25, 2014

{Review} Shatter Me & Destroy Me by Taherah Mafi

{Review} Shatter Me by Taherah Mafi

Goodreads Description:

Juliette hasn’t touched anyone in exactly 264 days.
The last time she did, it was an accident, but The Reestablishment locked her up for murder. No one knows why Juliette’s touch is fatal. As long as she doesn’t hurt anyone else, no one really cares. The world is too busy crumbling to pieces to pay attention to a 17-year-old girl. Diseases are destroying the population, food is hard to find, birds don’t fly anymore, and the clouds are the wrong color.
The Reestablishment said their way was the only way to fix things, so they threw Juliette in a cell. Now so many people are dead that the survivors are whispering war – and The Reestablishment has changed its mind. Maybe Juliette is more than a tortured soul stuffed into a poisonous body. Maybe she’s exactly what they need right now.
Juliette has to make a choice: Be a weapon. Or be a warrior.

My Review:

Now I originally read this back in 2011 when it first came out and I was blown away. Not only with the story but the writing. I've never read anything like it and I was enthralled. Here is my review from 2011 on Goodreads: REVIEW .

I recently re-read this book to refresh my memory on what exactly happened because I knew Ignite Me came out and I was anxious to read it. So this is just a sort of mini review for Shatter Me.

Even though I've read this book before (3 years ago) I was still amazed by the writing in this book. Yes, the ending was a bit like X-Men but that's ok because I actually love X-Men. It was great to get a refresher on this book because I couldn't wait to read the rest in the series.

Juliette still broke my heart with her scratched out thoughts and Adam was the knight and shining armor that fairy tales are made of. The love scenes were so intense and just so....passionate. I loved every minute of this re-read. I cannot wait to see what happens next.

Even though everybody says Warner is a jerk, I still think he's hot and I LOVE a good bad boy lol.

{Review} Destroy Me by Taherah Mafi

Goodreads Description:

Perfect for the fans of Shatter Me who are desperately awaiting the release of Unravel Me, this novella-length digital original will bridge the gap between these two novels from the perspective of the villain we all love to hate, Warner, the ruthless leader of Sector 45.
In Tahereh Mafi’s Shatter Me, Juliette escaped from The Reestablishment by seducing Warner—and then putting a bullet in his shoulder. But as she’ll learn in Destroy Me, Warner is not that easy to get rid of. . .
Back at the base and recovering from his near-fatal wound, Warner must do everything in his power to keep his soldiers in check and suppress any mention of a rebellion in the sector. Still as obsessed with Juliette as ever, his first priority is to find her, bring her back, and dispose of Adam and Kenji, the two traitors who helped her escape. But when Warner’s father, The Supreme Commander of The Reestablishment, arrives to correct his son’s mistakes, it’s clear that he has much different plans for Juliette. Plans Warner simply cannot allow.
Set after Shatter Me and before its forthcoming sequel, Unravel Me,Destroy Me is a novella told from the perspective of Warner, the ruthless leader of Sector 45

My Review:

Now going into this book I wasn't too much of a Warner fan. Just because he seemed a little crazy and bipolar. I still have a crush on him because the way Juliette described him was just so perfect. I loved it.

Now, after reading the book, I am completely taken with Warner. Really and truly taken with him. I love Adam too but Warner.....it just....*sigh*. I'm not sure how to express what I think.

I really enjoyed seeing his side of things. It's a great perspective to see how deep he truly is and where is heart and mind truly lie.

One of my favorite parts was the scene with the dog. Oh my goodness I think my heart literally melted into a pile of goo all over the floor. I almost cried....almost. Mafi's style of writing just blows me away.

I love little novellas like this so you can see a peek into another character's psyche. Now that I've seen Warner's mind, I don't think I wanted to leave it. I just hope he doesn't turn into a complete douche by the end.

I'll still love him though I'm sure.

Monday, February 10, 2014

{Review} The Fault In Our Stars by John Green

{Review} The Fault In Our Stars by John Green

Goodreads Description:

Despite the tumor-shrinking medical miracle that has bought her a few years, Hazel has never been anything but terminal, her final chapter inscribed upon diagnosis. But when a gorgeous plot twist named Augustus Waters suddenly appears at Cancer Kid Support Group, Hazel's story is about to be completely rewritten.

My Review: Where do I start with this book? I will go with a few words that I think describe it pretty well: touching, heartfelt, heartbreaking, perspective changing. I will say that I enjoyed this book. I truly did. I read this with my bestie April. We've both been wanting to read this for a while but never got around to it. Now that it's becoming a movie in the next month or so we thought we would speed it up on our TBR list. Once we saw the trailer for the movie, it had to be the next one in the long line of our "buddy read" list. I'm not going to say I didn't know what to expect. Because, frankly, I knew what was going to happen more or less. But even though I had an idea of what to expect, I still was surprised. Granted, the main reason why I only gave this 4 out of 5 stars is that it seemed a bit too....intellectual for me. Now, I'm not saying I'm ignorant by any means when reading books but there were areas when I had to re-read the excerpt to understand it. I consider myself pretty well rounded in the whole reading category since I read quite a bit. This book made me truly think. I try to read as objectively as I possibly can. This book made that very difficult for a few reasons: 1. I'm a mother. After voxing with April, I realized that I felt the same way as she did. I can put myself in her mother's shoes and read as a mom. Reading that way nearly tore my heart out. How do you deal with something like that? How? You're one and only child is sick and so close to death. How do you do that? I have no idea what I would do if I were ever in that position. It gave me a new perspective on caregivers. Seriously. Mad props out to those who care for their sick loved ones. All around. 2. I'm a wife. I'm in love. Everyone should have the chance to love someone and have that person return it. Sick or not. To see that these two teenagers love so deeply touched my heart. You don't think about that kind of thing when you see someone with an oxygen tank rolling with them. They are teenagers in the book but their love for each other is so beyond their years because of where they've been. What they've been through. 3. I am a best friend. I have people that I consider my best friend and they (hopefully) consider me theirs. There is a point in TFIOS that I thoroughly agree with. When someone passes away, suddenly all these people coming out of the woodwork saying how sorry they were and what a great person they were. Did they really know them? Truly? If I found out one of my best friends was sick, I'd be there everyday. Just to be there. I thought that was awesome that Green touched on that. This book completely changed my outlook on a few things. I am really glad that I read it and even though it wasn't my favorite, I will read it again. Maybe not soon because my heart is still a little raw, but I will. Not sure if I'll see the movie since movies tend to ruin the book. Or vice versa. The books are always better. Hazel was fantastic. I loved her sense of humor and her views on life. She was very honest and very blunt. I'm sure she didn't want to hurt people's feelings with what she said but I enjoyed her honesty and her directness. Augustus was...just....*sigh*. I thought he was so very perfect. He really made the book for me. His overwhelming love for Hazel was so touching. Actually their love for each other was completely perfect. I don't know how to describe it. I can't really say too much because I don't do spoilers. John Green's words just jump of the page and are written extremely well. There wasn't any fluff. Everything was just great. I felt this book was very real and very beautiful.

"It seemed like forever ago, like we'd had this brief but still infinite forever. Some infinities are bigger than other infinities.

I strongly encourage you to pick this book up and read it. It really is a good book with a great story.

Wednesday, January 15, 2014

{Review} Insurgent by Veronica Roth

{Review} Insurgent by Veronica Roth

Goodreads Description:

Fighting for survival in a shattered world… the truth is her only hope.
The thrillingly dark sequel to No. 1 New York Times bestseller, DIVERGENT.
I have done bad things. I can’t take them back, and they are part of who I am.
Tris has survived a brutal attack on her former home and family. But she has paid a terrible price. Wracked by grief and guilt, she becomes ever more reckless as she struggles to accept her new future.
Yet if Tris wants to uncover the truth about her world, she must be stronger than ever… because more shocking choices and sacrifices lie ahead.

My Review: I recently finished Divergent at the end of 2013 and I ws anxiously waiting to read this one. Me and my bestie April over at Sim Sational Books promised to do a bunch of buddy reads this year and finishing this series is in that list. I couldn't wait to start Insurgent. The previous books left it wide open. Let me first tell you that I am totally pushing for buddy reads. They are probably the best thing ever. Reading with someone who has the same taste and same passion of books as you makes reading so much more fun. Voxer adds it all together with live narration of sorts. It's incredible. I highly suggest you do it. On to my review.....one word for Insurgent...WOW. This book is completely non stop with all the action and politics. I love that you don't know what is going to happen and it keeps you guessing. All the way until the cliffhanger ending.
I adore Tris and think she's a complete badass chick. She's been through so much and she still stands so strong. One of my favorite characters ever.
Four is dreamy but to me a little wishy washy sometimes. He's still dreamy though don't get me wrong. I understand where he is coming from in most of his little arguments with Tris.
I will say that was the downer of the book. Tris and Four argue quite a bit and I get that couples argue but I didn't like that it was the main focus for a while. There was just so much other stuff going on that should've been priority.
Other than the arguing, this was fantastic and cannot wait to read Allegiant. I will say that I highly dislike Four's mom....She's pretty shifty. Oh! And I want to slap Caleb in the face....more like punch.
Buddy read #2-Allegiant April and I are coming for you!!

Monday, January 13, 2014

{Review} Cheating On Myself by Erin Downing

{Review} Cheating On Myself by Erin Downing

Goodreads Description:

What happens when good enough just isn't enough anymore?
Stella Dahl assumed her life was as good as it was ever going to get. But after twelve years with a man who’s more a habit than husband material, she walks out on her bland existence, determined to start over. Goaded by her friends and a group of crass retirees she befriends at water aerobics, Stella plunges back into the dating pool. After a few false starts, she meets Joe, the sexy banjo player in a popular children’s band. He’s cocky, a smirking flirt, and a musician...everything she’s *not* looking for in a guy. Even still, she begins to fall — hard.
Just when Stella is beginning to think she could find true happiness, a family tragedy turns her world upside down. As she tries to hold together everything that’s crumbling around her, Stella starts slipping back into old habits — and away from Joe. Soon, she begins to wonder: Is she really destined for anything more than a life that’s good enough?
For fans of Jennifer Weiner and Kristan Higgins, CHEATING ON MYSELF is a touching, laugh-out-loud romantic comedy about starting over and finding your happily ever after.

My Review: I was a bit torn on this book. I give it 2.5 stars out of 5 because....well....it felt like trudging through mud for me to finish this book. But I liked it enough to push through and finish it. When I read the description and saw the cover, I thought it would be a cute little romantic comedy about a woman who finds herself wanting more out of life. Even though there is a love story in there, it wasn't the main focus and it really wasn't a love story persay. Don't get me wrong....it wasn't completely horrible....but I probably wouldn't give it a high recommendation. Mainly for the fact that the story was blah and seemed so very long. I'll get more into that in a minute. I'll go over the characters in the book first.... Stella....she was a likable character sometimes. Well, for me, not very often. I found her whiny and pretty much a wimp who wouldn't stand up for herself. That could be due to the fact she had a rough go of it most of her young adult life.I can see that to a point I suppose. But throughout the book, she just....can't make a decision and lets people walk all over her.
Eric is douche. Pretty plan and simple. She's with him for 12 years. I guess when you're stuck in a rut....that's what you get. I really didn't understand his appeal in this book. That might be because the author didn't really paint a good picture of him.
Joe....He seemed really adorable and cute. He was. Just a little too "go with the flow" for me. He put up with a lot of stupid crap from Stella which I gave him mad props for. He stuck by her and wanted to be with her so he was a nice character. He had a really sweet heart and was willing to change his "whorish ways". He was pretty damn honest with Stella from the beginning and so he was probably my favorite character in the book.
All of Stella's friends were pretty damn judgmental. This whole book was based off a lot of judgemental. Stella getting the brunt of it and dishing it out herself. Her friends were really.....not who I would've picked as friends I guess. I don't really see the appeal to most of them.
I'm starting to get ranty so I think I'm going to end my review here. Overall....this book didn't work for me. It could work for other people but all I got to say is I'm glad I got this for free. I try to research my freebies before downloading them and this has quite a few 5 and 4 star reviews. It just wasn't my kind of book.

Monday, December 30, 2013

{Blog Tour & Giveaway} Return to Poughkeepsie by Debra Anastasia

{Blog Tour} Return To Poughkeepsie by Debra Anastasia

Goodreads Description:

Beckett Taylor is a murderer. His calling, his craft are destruction and intimidation—whether he wants it that way now or not. He left Poughkeepsie to keep his brothers safe, to keep Eve safe. Set up with happy lives to live, they’re better off without him, right?
But all his willpower crumbles when he hears his brother Blake’s frantic voice on the phone. An unknown enemy has moved in on his old territory, and Livia’s been taken. In an instant, Beckett knows it will take an attack only he and Eve can execute to bring her back. All his self-imposed embargoes are torn to shreds, perhaps along with the new man he’s struggled to become.
“Brother, call Eve. I’ll be there soon.”
In this emotional and action-packed sequel to Poughkeepsie, Debra Anastasia conjures a tale of love at its most raw and ragged. With Beckett and Eve, how could we expect anything less? But even when it’s messy, not magical, true love perseveres. Real love finds a way—for better or for worse until death does part.

My Review:

Where do I even start with this? I will try my damnedest to be spoiler free. Poughkeepsie is one of my all time favorite books. It was my top for 2012 and it will remain my top forever more. I wrote my review for that on my old blog a while ago. If you want to look at it you can click here. Since I loved Poughkeepsie so very much, you can probably guess at my enthusiasm to read the second book. I loved Beckett and couldn't wait to see his side of things. Not only that, but Eve gives me a lady boner. She is my favorite character in this series. I could probably sum up my reaction to Return To Poughkeepsie in a few short words: Wow. Rocked. My. Entire. Universe. Debra Anastasia has the insane ability to be a true storyteller. Okay....So now with the story....(without spoilers I promise) If you've read Poughkeepsie, you know that Beckett Taylor is a complete badass with some crazy on the side. But it's the good kind of badass and the hot kind of crazy right?! At least. that's how I justify it. Haha. I do have to say it was really awesome to see most of this from his point of view and his reactions. It was wonderful to see this man's side of things. I loved being inside of his head. His love for his brothers and their wives is overwhelming and completely endearing. I knew he had a heart. It shows a lot more in this book. Eve. Oh, my dear deadly Eve. Man I wish I could have her as a bestie!! Holy crap what a woman. Like I've mentioned above, she gives me a lady boner and I don't know who really wouldn't for this chick. She's had a rough go of it and keeps it together....mostly. I just love how Debra showcased her complete badassery in this book. Also, her compassionate and softer side. I could go into Blake, Livia, Kyle & Cole but really.....this book is about Beckett and Eve. Yes, all the other main characters from the first book are in here....but they aren't the main focus. I still love them all but Beckett and Eve's story is the forefront and I want to keep that in main focus. I will say that there are some moments in this book that Debra had me in tears for these 4. So don't count them out. The whole story is crazy action packed. Full of twists and turns that you don't really see coming. This book has the ENTIRE package of what a book is supposed to be. Romance, action, debauchery, crazy ( I should highlight the crazy), sex, passion, compassion, adventure....I swear the list goes on and on. From the very beginning, Debra Anastasia bitch slaps you and catches your attention. She keeps it the entire time. She has such a way with it. She can bitch slap me anytime and I'd enjoy the hell out of it. I truly do not think she could ever write a book that I wouldn't enjoy to the fullest. I know I've said it before tons of times....but seriously...I have to say it again. Debra Anastasia has become one of my all time favorite authors and will forever remain one. I consider her a friend and one of the most outrageously funny women I know. If you've ever read her facebook statuses you know what I'm talking about. Personal stuff aside, she truly has a way with words and her approach to storytelling is unlike anything I've ever seen. Her words can have you busting up one second and touching your heart the next. All of the stories intertwine and I love it. I cannot recommend this book and this series enough. There are not enough words for me to describe just how much Poughkeepsie moved me when I read it the first time. It still moves me every time I read it. Return To Poughkeepsie is just as enchanting.

"Sometimes you can save someone's whole world just by smiling at them. Kindness is one of those things that has immense value to the person experiencing it."

Return To Poughkeepsie is LIVE!!! Snatch it up!!! http://www.amazon.com/Return-Poughkeepsie-Debra-Anastasia-ebook/dp/B00HL50PIO/ref=sr_1_4?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1388364635&sr=1-4&keywords=return+to+Poughkeepsie

About Debra:

Debra Anastasia is busy, just like every other mom. There's dinner, the dogs, the two kids, the two kids, and her ongoing battle with...ahem... digestive issues, which combined with her adolescent boy sense of humor makes for colorful and sometimes cringe-worthy social media updates. Her first love and crowning achievement is her thriving career as the weirdest mom on the block.

Her writing started a decent handful of years ago when--along with the animals and humans in her house--the voices of characters started whispering stories in Debra's ear. Insomnia was the gateway to plots that wouldn't give up, wouldn't let go. Now they stalk her everywhere. Halfway through making lunches, a twist takes hold and--fingers full of peanut butter--she finds somewhere, anywhere to write it down.

She's eternally grateful to Omnific Publishing, which has now published four of her books: two in the Seraphim Series and two in the Poughkeepsie Brotherhood Series, as well as her novella, Late Night with Andres. That one is special because 100% of the proceeds go to breast cancer research. (So go get it right now, please!) She also very much appreciates her open-minded readers, who embrace everything she has to offer, with a focus on anti-heroes and bathroom humor.

Debra lives in Maryland with her family. You can find her at DebraAnastasia.com and on Twitter @Debra_Anastasia. But be prepared.

Social Media Links:

YouTube Trailer

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Tuesday, November 19, 2013

{Release Day Launch, Excerpt & Giveaway} Torn by Monica Murphy

Monica Murphy's sexy new Billionaire Bachelors Club Series book, TORN, is out today and we are excited to join in the release day launch for it. TORN is a steamy and amazing Contemporary Romance. Check out what we have for you today and then enter to win in the release day launch giveaway! There's also a fantastic excerpt for you to check out!

EXCERPT:

“Tell me your name.” A shiver runs down my spine at the commanding, deep voice that sounds in my ear. I keep myself still, trying my best not to react considering we’re surrounded by at least a hundred people, but oh, how I want to.If I could, I’d throw myself into the arms of the man who’s standing far too close to me. He’s demanding to know my name as if I owe him some sort of favor, which I can’t help but find hot.Irritating, but hot.“Tell me yours first,” I murmur in return, turning my head in the opposite direction, so it appears I’m not even talking to him. He stands behind me, tall and broad, imposing in his immaculate black suit and crisp white shirt—the silvery tie he wears perfectly knotted at his throat.I might not be looking at this very moment, but I’d memorized everything about him the moment I first saw him not an hour ago. He’d drawn plenty of attention without saying a word, striding into the room as if he owned it, casting that calculating gaze upon everyone in attendance. Looking very much like the mighty king observing his lowly subjects—until his eyes lit upon me.He watched me for long, agonizing minutes. Butterflies fluttered in my stomach as I felt his hungry eyes rake over my body, and for a terrifying moment I wondered if he could see right through me. I shifted the slightest bit, inwardly cursing myself for coming tonight, but I held firm. I refused to react.I still refuse to react.“You don’t know who I am?” He sounds amused at the notion, and I’m tempted to walk away without a word. My earlier nerves evaporate, replaced by a steely spine and an even steelier attitude. He’s so confident, so arrogant, I’m sure he believes he has me.He doesn’t know who he’s dealing with then, does he?We’re at a local wine- and brewery-tasting, and I’m here representing the bakery my family owns. The one I was recently allowed to take over and run since I’d graduated college. The business they all believe is going to fail. So why not give it to Marina? She can’t screw it up too badly.That’s what I overheard my father telling my uncle. The memory of his words still cuts straight to the bone.Finally I chance a glance at the man behind me, drinking in his thick brown hair tinged with gold, the way it tumbles across his forehead, his twinkling green eyes, the faint smile that curves his full lips. The combination gives him a boyish appearance. It’s a complete illusion because there is nothing boyish about this virile man before me.“Perhaps you can enlighten me.” I offer a carefree smile and turn to face him, the nerves returning tenfold when he takes a step toward me, invading my personal space. His scent hits me first: clean and subtle, a mixture of soap and just . . . him. No cologne that I can detect.Rather unusual. Most of the men I know slather themselves in expensive scents all with the purpose of drawing us silly women in. Instead, they end up choking us.With the exception of this man. I find the uniqueness refreshing.A slow smile appears, revealing perfectly straight white teeth. “Gage Emerson.” He thrusts his hand toward me. “And you are . . .?”He’s not very subtle. And he’s exactly who I suspected, not that I had any real doubt. The very man who recently bought up what feels like half of the Napa Valley, all in the hopes of turning it around and selling it to God knows who just to earn a hefty profit.Not caring in the least that he’s forever changing the landscape of the very place I’ve grown up in. And devastating my family in the process.“Marina Knight,” I say. God, I sound breathless, and I want to smack myself. I’m not here tonight because of him. I came for other reasons. To promote the family bakery, to mix and mingle with local business owners, many I consider friends. My life in the Napa Valley is all I know.And this gorgeous man standing in front of me is trying to take what I know away from me for good.

Amazon Barnes and Noble

ABOUT TORN (Book 2 in the Billionaire Bachelors Club Series):

New York Times bestselling author Monica Murphy mixes business with pleasure in the second book of her sexy Billionaire Bachelors Club series …
Marina Knight came to this party for one thing only: to slap Gage Emerson in the face. Poised to snatch up her family's real estate empire, the sexy tycoon is on the verge of making an enemy for life—even if he can make her melt with a single kiss …
When Gage discovers that the alluring woman before him is the key to his latest acquisition, claiming her as his suddenly doesn't seem quite so cut-and-dried. To get what he wants, he must get to know the fierce woman willing to face him down—as she steadily steals his heart.
Gage's persistence and intense passion war with Marina's determination to protect her family. As they delve deeper into an affair they didn't see coming, Marina's torn: Will she lose her heart to Gage—or everything she holds dear?

About Monica Murphy:

New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Monica Murphy is a native Californian who lives in the foothills below Yosemite. A wife and mother of three, she writes New Adult and contemporary romance for Bantam and Avon. She is the author of One Week Girlfriend and Second Chance Boyfriend.

Links:

Website: http://www.monicamurphyauthor.com/#

Blog: http://missmonicamurphy.blogspot.com/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/MsMonicaMurphy

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/MonicaMurphyauthor

Author Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/5934418.Monica_Murphy

Amazon author page: http://www.amazon.com/Monica-Murphy/e/B00AVPYIGG

TORN Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/17905596-torn?ac=1

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Friday, November 15, 2013

{Blog Tour & Excerpt} A Risk Worth Taking by Heather Hildenbrand

BOOK SUMMARY:

When 22-year-old Summer Stafford’s parents split halfway through her senior year at college, Summer’s world is rocked. Everything she thought she knew—heck, everything she thought she wanted for her own life—feels like a lie. The truth is love is a risk. And the true kind, the kind that lasts, might even be a fairy tale.
Reeling from the divorce, Summer derails her own future by breaking up with her parent-approved boyfriend and giving up her lifelong plans for a big-city career. She moves back home, business degree in hand. Dad needs her to fill the gaps her mother left behind; Summer needs to find who she is outside of the cookie-cutter life that failed so miserably for her parents.
Ford O’Neal’s future involves one person: himself. He doesn’t have a permanent address and he definitely doesn’t commit. To a place or a person. Raised by hippies, he plans just far enough ahead to secure his next stop, this one landing him at a work-study program at Heritage Plantation where he can grow his own herbal and medicinal creations.
Summer is gorgeous and smart and fun to be with, the perfect way to pass five months. It won’t be love—Ford’s got too many things to accomplish, too many places to go, before he settles down. Yet Summer pulls him in, challenging him to rethink his own philosophy.
When Ford’s five months are up, each of them must decide if love is really worth the risk.

Buy Links:

Amazon/B&N

Excerpt:

“’Scuse me, am I interrupting?” Ford looked back and forth between us uncertainly, his body already half turned toward the exit. His boots scuffed the floor as he turned to go without waiting for an answer. How much had he heard?“No, it’s fine. Come in,” I said, before my dad could say otherwise.“Are you sure? I can come back.”“Dad was just on his way out,” I said.
My dad gave me a stern look before rising, his hat in one hand, his coffee in the other. “I’ll see you at dinner,” he said to me, his tone ominous and heavy with meaning. We weren’t done with this conversation. Fine. I’d just keep finding ways to interrupt it.
As distractions went, Ford wasn’t bad. He had on jeans snug enough around the hips that it got the imagination going. His brown work boots had seen better days; the sole was loose around the edges and stained where his frayed jeans met the laces. He still hadn’t shaved. For a fleeting moment, I wondered what the stubble would feel like against my skin.I forced my eyes down, not wanting to be caught staring—again—and saw that his shirt was blue today. It matched his eyes. I tried not to compare the two shades, willing myself to stop thinking about his eyes at all. Or any other part of him. Damn those jeans…
After a friendly exchange of hellos between the two men, Ford shuffled into the empty seat Dad left behind.“What can I do for you?” I asked, abandoning the computer for my cooling mug and trying to appear like I wasn’t picturing him naked. Well, he could keep the boots on if he wanted.
“Dean said to stop by once you got settled so I could fill out some new employee paperwork.”“Right. The internship is paid, isn’t it?”“So they tell me.”“Forms, forms,” I muttered to myself, using my free hand to explore the contents of the desk drawers on either side of me. Neither yielded the forms I needed.
I eyed the filing cabinet across the room. I’d yet to touch it or even venture that way. The entire cabinet was covered with old artwork I’d brought home as a child. My mother had secured them with magnets we’d picked up on family vacations and mother/daughter outings. I didn’t want to touch that thing. Not yet. God, the entire office still smelled like her.
“You okay?” Ford asked.
I found him studying me with a mixture of curiosity and concern. I knew my expression must’ve conveyed some of what I’d been thinking but I wasn’t about to unload all my baggage on this stranger, hot as he might be.
“Fantastic. You?”
“I’m always great,” he said, hands folded and shoulders relaxed as he lounged in the chair.My eyes narrowed, searching for the sarcasm behind his words, but his tone was genuine and I realized he meant it. Most people answered with a snappy “fine” or “okay” and kept it moving. His upbeat answer caught me off guard.
“So … employment forms?” he prompted.
“Forms, right.” I rose and walked to the filing cabinet, opening drawers and perusing their contents while trying to ignore the pang in my gut it caused to be touching all of the old artwork, things that were so absolutely hers yet she hadn’t bothered to take a single one. She could take the knickknacks from the mantel but not the kangaroo I’d painted in elementary school, writing her name in glitter across the top.
I found the forms I needed and slid the drawer closed. It stuck, and I had to shove it hard to get it to click. Maybe I could convince Dad to spring for a new one. A clean one. And this could go out for garbage, artwork and all. I whirled, antsy to escape this corner of memory lane, and my nose bumped Ford’s chest. Not a bad way to be injured, but still.
“Sorry,” I said, jumping back. My hip bumped the drawer handle behind me and I winced. Ford looked torn between amusement and sympathy. “Employment forms,” I said, shoving them at his chest before he could say a word.
“Thank you.”“You can fill them out and bring them back later.”“Can I stay and fill them out now?”
I grimaced. He still hadn’t moved, and his closeness only heightened my discomfort. Not so much from the pain of the metal against my thigh, but from the way I could feel his presence without a single part of our bodies touching. Like when you rub a balloon for so long, you can feel it pricking at you from an inch away. I’d never felt that from another person before, let alone a man. I hadn’t known such a feeling existed. It was exciting and thrilling and terrifying.“Sure,” I answered, my voice hoarse.
When he still didn’t move, I looked up and met his eyes. He was studying me with an intensity in those blue-grays that made it hard to breathe. “Is there something else?” I managed to say through a suddenly parched throat.“Yes.” He leaned down and for a split second, I thought he was going to kiss me. I blanched and the sheet of static between us evaporated instantly. His expression smoothed so quickly I wondered if I’d imagined the entire thing. But no, there was definitely a level of tension in him too.
He cleared his throat at the same time I wiped my sweaty palms on my jeans.
“A pen?” he asked.

About Heather:

Heather Hildenbrand was born and raised in a small town in northern Virginia where she was homeschooled through high school. She now lives in coastal VA, a few miles from the Atlantic Ocean, with her two adorable children. She works from home, part time, as a property manager and when she's not furiously pounding at the keyboard, or staring off into space whilst plotting a new story, she's lying on the beach, soaking in those delicious, pre-cancerous rays.

Heather loves Mexican food, hates socks with sandals, and if her house was on fire, the one thing she'd grab is her DVR player.

Heather is a co-founder of Accendo Press, a publishing group she operates with fellow authors: Angeline Kace and Jennifer Sommersby. Accendo (a-CH-endo), A Latin word, means “to kindle, illuminate, inflame, or set fire.” This is something Accendo strives to do inside a reader’s imagination with every title released. For a complete list of titles and author bios, visit www.accendopress.com.

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