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Meet the complicated rock stars behind the sexiest band in America! In the start of an emotionally charged series, an insatiable heartthrob gets blinded by the spotlight—and learns to fight for love.
“Blow will absolutely blow you away. Scorching-hot chemistry woven into a very poignant story of addiction.”—Sawyer Bennett
Bodhi McKnight has always had everything handed to him on a silver fame, success, money, women. The raven-haired, blue-eyed hottie’s parents are Hollywood A-listers, and when he’s asked to join the all-male band Virtuous Paradox, his star shoots even higher. But so do expectations, leading Bodhi down a destructive path of addiction—until a drop-dead gorgeous guardian angel shows him her sizzling brand of tough love.
When Bodhi ends up in rehab, he doesn’t expect to meet someone as cool and down-to-earth as Kimberly Gordon. Unfazed by his rock-star persona, Kim would rather go horseback riding than fangirl over Bodhi, which is an unfamiliar—and refreshing—feeling. Kim’s the type of person he’s been looking for his entire someone who cares about him, not his career or his famous parents. When Bodhi falls, it’s fast and hard. He just hopes that he’s strong enough to protect their love from all the pressures and temptations of the outside world.
Praise for Blow
“Heidi McLaughlin never disappoints. Blow is a sexy, forbidden love story about the dark side of fame, addiction, and finding the light at the end of the tunnel. I couldn’t put it down.”—Nicole Jacquelyn, author of Unbreak My Heart
“Heidi McLaughlin’s Blow is a beautifully romantic story of redemption and triumph—fame at its darkest, but humanity at its brightest.”—Sarah Robinson, author of the Kavanagh Legends series
“Blow will absolutely blow you away. Scorching-hot chemistry woven into a very poignant story of addiction.”—New York Times bestselling author Sawyer Bennett
“Hot, sexy, and completely addicting. Blow has definitely turned into one of my all-time favorite reads!”—New York Times bestselling author, L. P. Dover
“Blow will be your newest addiction! Real and raw, Heidi McLaughlin delivers another emotional hit!”—Stacey Kennedy, USA Today bestselling author of the Dirty Little Secrets series
“I was in no way prepared for how much I was going to enjoy and be impacted by this story. I found myself searching for extra minutes in my day to sneak in reading, even if only to absorb a few pages.”—Renee Dyer, author of Waking Up
“I found I couldn’t put this new series by Heidi [McLaughlin] down. I give it five stars. I can’t wait for the next in this heart-shattering new series.”—Books & Boys Book Blog
“The connection between the two characters is almost immediate and their chemistry is explosive. Several scenes had me cussing at my kindle, and several had me crying. A very good read!”—FMR Book Grind
“Emotionally, I was on pins and needles though now that I’ve finished the book I can really appreciate the roller coaster.
“Blow will absolutely blow you away. Scorching-hot chemistry woven into a very poignant story of addiction.”—Sawyer Bennett
Bodhi McKnight has always had everything handed to him on a silver fame, success, money, women. The raven-haired, blue-eyed hottie’s parents are Hollywood A-listers, and when he’s asked to join the all-male band Virtuous Paradox, his star shoots even higher. But so do expectations, leading Bodhi down a destructive path of addiction—until a drop-dead gorgeous guardian angel shows him her sizzling brand of tough love.
When Bodhi ends up in rehab, he doesn’t expect to meet someone as cool and down-to-earth as Kimberly Gordon. Unfazed by his rock-star persona, Kim would rather go horseback riding than fangirl over Bodhi, which is an unfamiliar—and refreshing—feeling. Kim’s the type of person he’s been looking for his entire someone who cares about him, not his career or his famous parents. When Bodhi falls, it’s fast and hard. He just hopes that he’s strong enough to protect their love from all the pressures and temptations of the outside world.
Praise for Blow
“Heidi McLaughlin never disappoints. Blow is a sexy, forbidden love story about the dark side of fame, addiction, and finding the light at the end of the tunnel. I couldn’t put it down.”—Nicole Jacquelyn, author of Unbreak My Heart
“Heidi McLaughlin’s Blow is a beautifully romantic story of redemption and triumph—fame at its darkest, but humanity at its brightest.”—Sarah Robinson, author of the Kavanagh Legends series
“Blow will absolutely blow you away. Scorching-hot chemistry woven into a very poignant story of addiction.”—New York Times bestselling author Sawyer Bennett
“Hot, sexy, and completely addicting. Blow has definitely turned into one of my all-time favorite reads!”—New York Times bestselling author, L. P. Dover
“Blow will be your newest addiction! Real and raw, Heidi McLaughlin delivers another emotional hit!”—Stacey Kennedy, USA Today bestselling author of the Dirty Little Secrets series
“I was in no way prepared for how much I was going to enjoy and be impacted by this story. I found myself searching for extra minutes in my day to sneak in reading, even if only to absorb a few pages.”—Renee Dyer, author of Waking Up
“I found I couldn’t put this new series by Heidi [McLaughlin] down. I give it five stars. I can’t wait for the next in this heart-shattering new series.”—Books & Boys Book Blog
“The connection between the two characters is almost immediate and their chemistry is explosive. Several scenes had me cussing at my kindle, and several had me crying. A very good read!”—FMR Book Grind
“Emotionally, I was on pins and needles though now that I’ve finished the book I can really appreciate the roller coaster.
200 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 8, 2016
About the author
Heidi McLaughlin
117 books7,296 followersHeidi McLaughlin is a New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and USA Today Bestselling author of The Beaumont Series, The Boys of Summer, and The Archers.
In 2012, Heidi turned her passion for reading into a full-fledged literary career, writing over twenty novels, including the acclaimed Forever My Girl.
Heidi’s first novel, Forever My Girl, has been adapted into a motion picture with LD Entertainment and Roadside Attractions, starring Alex Roe and Jessica Rothe, and opened in theaters on January 19, 2018.
To stay connected with Heidi visit www.facebook.com/authorheidimclaughlin or heidimclaughlin.com
In 2012, Heidi turned her passion for reading into a full-fledged literary career, writing over twenty novels, including the acclaimed Forever My Girl.
Heidi’s first novel, Forever My Girl, has been adapted into a motion picture with LD Entertainment and Roadside Attractions, starring Alex Roe and Jessica Rothe, and opened in theaters on January 19, 2018.
To stay connected with Heidi visit www.facebook.com/authorheidimclaughlin or heidimclaughlin.com
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November 8, 2016
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Book Review: 6 stars
Without doubt, Heidi’s BLOW blew me away for good!!!! And the blurb may have indicated that this book isn’t like any other I have read, but I never expected to hit that target 200% bull’s eye…. One of my bookworm life’s surprises!!
The deeper I go, the more I feel … the more this moment means.
BLOW is the first story in McLaughlin’s new series, Virtuous Paradox, which goes around telling us the love stories of the boy band “Virtuous Paradox”, starting with Bodhi. Bodhi McKnight is a celebrity child with a famous actress and a famous film producer as his parents. His heart has always been in the right place but the pressure today’s music industry puts on him, forces him to turn to coke for help so he can deal with everything on his plate. But he got at a point where Life had to draw a line, tell him “That’s it! You had enough!” and send him to rehab. And maybe that place for the most addicts seems like Hell, but in Bodhi’s case, it gave him a purpose to change himself, his lifestyle and his life’s priorities. And what – or better who – is that purpose? Well, it hears at the name Kimberly Gordon; his one-to-one person for psychological support and to make his stay as more bearable as possible. Although, neither imagined what kind of “bearable” his stay would turn out to be.
The connection these two form is instant and the moments that are following it may seem sometimes quite fast and lacking the average needed time for growing properly. But here’s where this thought halts; because the events-unfolding may have a fast pace, but NOTHING about this story is average and usual. And undoubtedly the characters fall under the same category too. Their complexity, their different lifestyles and emotional world are some of the things that move this story out of the sphere of “Average”. It’s really remarkable how much character progress and strength have fitted into it. You go into it expecting an interesting, different story with great characters, but what you get is far from it; what you get is the heart-warming story of two characters who, until the moment they laid eyes on each other, were on pause and the moment they found each other, the true journey begun. It’s really hard to explain the amazing feelings that the impressive growing and change of these two heroes did to me. Witnessing their 180, especially Bodhi, was something that I will never forget.
Whoever has had the “Heidi McLaughlin” experience before, would definitely know that her characters always have that “something” that can blow your mind. And neither Bodhi nor Kim could escape this fate. Their passion, love, struggle, strength are some of the undeniable elements which will ….. Blow you – no pun intended! :p As for the cover, I can’t really say much because they don’t fit. The ways that someone can perverse this inspired cover may be many, but this is which I go for: “under the cocaine – the white part of the cover – addiction Bodhi had to go through, ironically this was – the transparent BLOW – what, in the end, lead him to find his salvation and put his life in an order so he can get closer to his HEA.” Too much maybe, but this was the first thing that came to mind when I saw the cover after THE END of the book. My mind and perspective of things definitely changed after this read. It would be too bad if you didn’t give it a try. Without thought “Highly Recommended”!!
Book Review: 6 stars
Without doubt, Heidi’s BLOW blew me away for good!!!! And the blurb may have indicated that this book isn’t like any other I have read, but I never expected to hit that target 200% bull’s eye…. One of my bookworm life’s surprises!!
The deeper I go, the more I feel … the more this moment means.
BLOW is the first story in McLaughlin’s new series, Virtuous Paradox, which goes around telling us the love stories of the boy band “Virtuous Paradox”, starting with Bodhi. Bodhi McKnight is a celebrity child with a famous actress and a famous film producer as his parents. His heart has always been in the right place but the pressure today’s music industry puts on him, forces him to turn to coke for help so he can deal with everything on his plate. But he got at a point where Life had to draw a line, tell him “That’s it! You had enough!” and send him to rehab. And maybe that place for the most addicts seems like Hell, but in Bodhi’s case, it gave him a purpose to change himself, his lifestyle and his life’s priorities. And what – or better who – is that purpose? Well, it hears at the name Kimberly Gordon; his one-to-one person for psychological support and to make his stay as more bearable as possible. Although, neither imagined what kind of “bearable” his stay would turn out to be.
“What if I think I found it? The one thing that will replace the high I’m craving?”
The connection these two form is instant and the moments that are following it may seem sometimes quite fast and lacking the average needed time for growing properly. But here’s where this thought halts; because the events-unfolding may have a fast pace, but NOTHING about this story is average and usual. And undoubtedly the characters fall under the same category too. Their complexity, their different lifestyles and emotional world are some of the things that move this story out of the sphere of “Average”. It’s really remarkable how much character progress and strength have fitted into it. You go into it expecting an interesting, different story with great characters, but what you get is far from it; what you get is the heart-warming story of two characters who, until the moment they laid eyes on each other, were on pause and the moment they found each other, the true journey begun. It’s really hard to explain the amazing feelings that the impressive growing and change of these two heroes did to me. Witnessing their 180, especially Bodhi, was something that I will never forget.
“… she has the power to destroy me and keep me clean at the same time.”
Whoever has had the “Heidi McLaughlin” experience before, would definitely know that her characters always have that “something” that can blow your mind. And neither Bodhi nor Kim could escape this fate. Their passion, love, struggle, strength are some of the undeniable elements which will ….. Blow you – no pun intended! :p As for the cover, I can’t really say much because they don’t fit. The ways that someone can perverse this inspired cover may be many, but this is which I go for: “under the cocaine – the white part of the cover – addiction Bodhi had to go through, ironically this was – the transparent BLOW – what, in the end, lead him to find his salvation and put his life in an order so he can get closer to his HEA.” Too much maybe, but this was the first thing that came to mind when I saw the cover after THE END of the book. My mind and perspective of things definitely changed after this read. It would be too bad if you didn’t give it a try. Without thought “Highly Recommended”!!
November 8, 2016
1.5 Star
So I've heard a lot of great things about Heidi McLaughlin and her previous rock star series and I admit that I really wanted to delve into those books prior to reading this. This is my first Heidi McLaughlin read. Sad to say, I was disappointed.
While Blow has an interesting premise about a rock star falling for an ordinary woman who helps him get over his drug addiction, this book was ruined by a lot of things. For once, both the male lead and the heroine were not likable enough for me to feel fascinated with their story.
There was an absoluteinsta-love insta-lust. All throughout the book all Bodhi McKnight and Kimberly Gordon ever did was lust after each other. I didn't really think that what they felt for each other was love at all. There were also scenes that kind of made me cringe. Tell you what, I am not against over-the-top sensual scenes but when .
I also wasn't sold on how Bodhi's drug addiction quickly faded. Drug addiction has never been an easy condition to be dealt with and to be easily treated. It may take more than 30 days for a person to completely be sober without thinking about going back to it and without experiencing some undesired symptoms all throughout the recovery process. So no, I wasn't convinced.
And oh, did I tell you that there was cheating involved here? Not that it was done willingly, but still, it was cheating. Ugh.
As a whole, I did not like this book. Things were just too unbelievable and unrealistic for me that I found myself having a hard time resisting the urge to groan in frustration.
(An ARC was provided to me by Loveswept Publishing and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.)
So I've heard a lot of great things about Heidi McLaughlin and her previous rock star series and I admit that I really wanted to delve into those books prior to reading this. This is my first Heidi McLaughlin read. Sad to say, I was disappointed.
While Blow has an interesting premise about a rock star falling for an ordinary woman who helps him get over his drug addiction, this book was ruined by a lot of things. For once, both the male lead and the heroine were not likable enough for me to feel fascinated with their story.
There was an absolute
I also wasn't sold on how Bodhi's drug addiction quickly faded. Drug addiction has never been an easy condition to be dealt with and to be easily treated. It may take more than 30 days for a person to completely be sober without thinking about going back to it and without experiencing some undesired symptoms all throughout the recovery process. So no, I wasn't convinced.
And oh, did I tell you that there was cheating involved here? Not that it was done willingly, but still, it was cheating. Ugh.
As a whole, I did not like this book. Things were just too unbelievable and unrealistic for me that I found myself having a hard time resisting the urge to groan in frustration.
(An ARC was provided to me by Loveswept Publishing and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.)
August 22, 2016
This is a very tough review for me to write. While I have adored prior books from this author, this one just didn’t work for me.
In Blow, we meet Bodhi, member of Virtuous Paradox (a boy band...) who is now set to spend the next thirty days in rehab for his drug addiction. While there, he meets Kimberly who will be his one-on-one person to help him while he is the program.
So although there were times when I really liked Bodhi and Kim and thought their growing romance was sweet as could be, I just never got over my issues with the story.
Drug abuse is not a sexy topic in a romance. But it was so glossed over that it sort of took away from the experience for me. The idea that he was so addicted, but yet within a day or two in rehab, wasn’t really having a single issue. That the whole, addiction sort of took a complete backseat to the forming of the relationship. Now, this is a topic that hits close to home. And just like with other themes, sometimes care is needed when using a topic like this in a story. I just didn’t like how this was used as a prop vs adding layers to the story.
There was also one other thing that threw me off a bit. In the midst of a sexy time moment, where I’m expecting the dirty mouth of Bodhi (which I was loving) to make an appearance, he uses the word twat. Twice. It killed the mood instantly. Do men ever say that?
Even though I really wanted to love this one, I just couldn’t get past the issues I had that started pretty early on in the story. But again, my reaction was 100% personal and although I did not love this book, it will hit the mark for so many other readers.
In Blow, we meet Bodhi, member of Virtuous Paradox (a boy band...) who is now set to spend the next thirty days in rehab for his drug addiction. While there, he meets Kimberly who will be his one-on-one person to help him while he is the program.
So although there were times when I really liked Bodhi and Kim and thought their growing romance was sweet as could be, I just never got over my issues with the story.
Drug abuse is not a sexy topic in a romance. But it was so glossed over that it sort of took away from the experience for me. The idea that he was so addicted, but yet within a day or two in rehab, wasn’t really having a single issue. That the whole, addiction sort of took a complete backseat to the forming of the relationship. Now, this is a topic that hits close to home. And just like with other themes, sometimes care is needed when using a topic like this in a story. I just didn’t like how this was used as a prop vs adding layers to the story.
There was also one other thing that threw me off a bit. In the midst of a sexy time moment, where I’m expecting the dirty mouth of Bodhi (which I was loving) to make an appearance, he uses the word twat. Twice. It killed the mood instantly. Do men ever say that?
Even though I really wanted to love this one, I just couldn’t get past the issues I had that started pretty early on in the story. But again, my reaction was 100% personal and although I did not love this book, it will hit the mark for so many other readers.
October 7, 2016
Full review posted at Confessions of a Pinay Bookaholic
Thank you LoveSwept for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Bodhi McKnight is one of the members of a famous boyband named Virtuous Paradox. He has everything in his life: Fame, money, house, cars, women etc.. However, not having a good family relationship because his parents aren’t affectionate and he’s longing for their love for years. That depressed him and he starts using drugs to forget his stresses in life. Without knowing, it’s destroying his life and career. When his father knew his addiction, he puts him on rehabilitation. Refuse to complete his treatment, he’ll lose everything.
On the rehab facility, he meets Kimberly Gordon as his carer. She’s the daughter of his father’s family friend and they will help Bodhi to be better. Things got steamy between this two despite it’s forbidden for a patient to have a relationship with his carer. Being with her, he feels better but how long does it take for him not to be tempted on using drugs?
I like it’s told in dual perspective and the writing style of this book is good but the story gave me mixed feelings. I’m okay with the forbidden romance but I’m not invested with the insta-love and I don’t like these characters blurred the lines too fast. So much raging hormones for these two. Also, I didn’t like that the addiction and recovery wasn’t emphasize and was taken over by romance. The process of recovery takes time and addiction doesn’t disappear with a snap. I’m underwhelmed by this book as these characters have an unhealthy relationship and lack of development.
Thank you LoveSwept for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Bodhi McKnight is one of the members of a famous boyband named Virtuous Paradox. He has everything in his life: Fame, money, house, cars, women etc.. However, not having a good family relationship because his parents aren’t affectionate and he’s longing for their love for years. That depressed him and he starts using drugs to forget his stresses in life. Without knowing, it’s destroying his life and career. When his father knew his addiction, he puts him on rehabilitation. Refuse to complete his treatment, he’ll lose everything.
On the rehab facility, he meets Kimberly Gordon as his carer. She’s the daughter of his father’s family friend and they will help Bodhi to be better. Things got steamy between this two despite it’s forbidden for a patient to have a relationship with his carer. Being with her, he feels better but how long does it take for him not to be tempted on using drugs?
I like it’s told in dual perspective and the writing style of this book is good but the story gave me mixed feelings. I’m okay with the forbidden romance but I’m not invested with the insta-love and I don’t like these characters blurred the lines too fast. So much raging hormones for these two. Also, I didn’t like that the addiction and recovery wasn’t emphasize and was taken over by romance. The process of recovery takes time and addiction doesn’t disappear with a snap. I’m underwhelmed by this book as these characters have an unhealthy relationship and lack of development.
November 11, 2016
This book was equal parts heartwarming, heartbreaking, sweet and incredibly hot. It's a story about addiction: how it ravages the mind, body and soul; how it harms relationships; and how the road to recovery may be hard and long, but so freaking worth it.
Bodhi (btw, I LOVE that name) was the son of two Hollywood icons. Left pretty much to his own devices, he fell into a boy band, known as Virtuous Parodox, and they almost instantly became famous in their own right. But the pressures of fame can be too much. Sometimes fame comes with fuckery and Bodhi became an addict. Thankfully his father and his manager staged an intervention, launching him onto the road to recovery. Along this path he met Kimberly, who was beautiful, pure, compassionate and had a heart of gold. Together they battled his demons and found love in the process.
This story was pretty raw. There were a few intense scenes that gave a clear picture of just how far Bodhi's addiction had reached. How hard the battle was that Bodhi was waging against his addiction, such as his cravings, paranoia, hallucinations, the itching, the pain, etc. The author did an amazing job of creating the beautiful evolution of Bodhi and Kim's relationship amidst the ugly chaos that initially brought them together.
The next book in the series is Bang and I'm hoping to see more of this couple within its pages.
An ARC was generously provided in exchange for an honest review
Bodhi (btw, I LOVE that name) was the son of two Hollywood icons. Left pretty much to his own devices, he fell into a boy band, known as Virtuous Parodox, and they almost instantly became famous in their own right. But the pressures of fame can be too much. Sometimes fame comes with fuckery and Bodhi became an addict. Thankfully his father and his manager staged an intervention, launching him onto the road to recovery. Along this path he met Kimberly, who was beautiful, pure, compassionate and had a heart of gold. Together they battled his demons and found love in the process.
This story was pretty raw. There were a few intense scenes that gave a clear picture of just how far Bodhi's addiction had reached. How hard the battle was that Bodhi was waging against his addiction, such as his cravings, paranoia, hallucinations, the itching, the pain, etc. The author did an amazing job of creating the beautiful evolution of Bodhi and Kim's relationship amidst the ugly chaos that initially brought them together.
The next book in the series is Bang and I'm hoping to see more of this couple within its pages.
An ARC was generously provided in exchange for an honest review
November 8, 2016
2.5 Stars!!
'Blow' was my first book by this author and while it didn’t impress me as much as I hoped, it won’t be my last since I quite enjoyed the author’s writing style. This first installment in Heidi McLaughlin’s ‘Virtual Paradox’ series was fast-paced, in some way taboo with an interesting premise.
'Blow' tells the story of Bodhi McKnight, member of Virtuous Paradox, a notorious pop boy band. He loves his life as a musician, the women, the parties, but also the alcohol and drugs, because Bodhi has a serious cocaine addiction. When his father, a well-known Hollywood director finds out about Bodhi’s drug addiction, he sends him to a rehab facility. There he meets Kimberly Gordon, who will be his friend for the next 30 days, caring for him and helping him understand his addiction. Bodhi is fascinated by Kim from the moment he lays his eyes on him. While he feels ashamed for his new “condition” he wants to know Kim better in every possible way. He loves everything about her – her compassion, the way he treats him and of course his looks and all he wants is to show her, to prove her that he can be a different man. Kim like everyone else knows who Bodhi is. She knows his reputation with women and she knows she should stay away from him since he’s a patient and everything, but she can’t deny Bodhi intrigues her like no other man she met before. If at first Bodhi and Kim try to stay away from each other, as they get to know each other better they realize they can be great together if they really want to.
The story’s premise was interesting for me to give this one a try, but sadly this was just an okay read for me. While I liked the concept of the story and even the writing, the lack of depth, the predictability and in this case, also the insta-lust didn’t work for me at all.
Both Bodhi and Kim were okay characters but I didn’t find anything remarkable about them. Sadly, I didn’t connect with them at all. Their age is not mentioned as the story unfolds, but unfortunately I found both of them to be a little immature at times. From the moment I’ve read the blurb I was interested in these two characters’ forbidden story, but IMO even this aspect was just meh. Maybe because I expected the story to focus on this aspect more.
The chemistry between them was well done and palpable and I really enjoyed it, but the romantic aspect between them was poorly done in my opinion. There wasn’t any insta-love between them, but their relationship progressed way too fast for my liking. I wasn’t convinced at all they are in love with each other or…whatever. Also, the lack of communication between them annoyed me to no end.
The addiction aspect of the story wasn’t done like I had expected to be. Bodhi’s road to recovery was poorly done and his insta-fixing just pissed me off. Needless to say, almost every aspect of this story was rushed or underdeveloped. At least for me. I wouldn’t have minded the story to be longer and at least one the story’s aspects, preferably the relationship between the two main characters to be more developed.
Overall, just an okay read for me!
'Blow' was my first book by this author and while it didn’t impress me as much as I hoped, it won’t be my last since I quite enjoyed the author’s writing style. This first installment in Heidi McLaughlin’s ‘Virtual Paradox’ series was fast-paced, in some way taboo with an interesting premise.
'Blow' tells the story of Bodhi McKnight, member of Virtuous Paradox, a notorious pop boy band. He loves his life as a musician, the women, the parties, but also the alcohol and drugs, because Bodhi has a serious cocaine addiction. When his father, a well-known Hollywood director finds out about Bodhi’s drug addiction, he sends him to a rehab facility. There he meets Kimberly Gordon, who will be his friend for the next 30 days, caring for him and helping him understand his addiction. Bodhi is fascinated by Kim from the moment he lays his eyes on him. While he feels ashamed for his new “condition” he wants to know Kim better in every possible way. He loves everything about her – her compassion, the way he treats him and of course his looks and all he wants is to show her, to prove her that he can be a different man. Kim like everyone else knows who Bodhi is. She knows his reputation with women and she knows she should stay away from him since he’s a patient and everything, but she can’t deny Bodhi intrigues her like no other man she met before. If at first Bodhi and Kim try to stay away from each other, as they get to know each other better they realize they can be great together if they really want to.
The story’s premise was interesting for me to give this one a try, but sadly this was just an okay read for me. While I liked the concept of the story and even the writing, the lack of depth, the predictability and in this case, also the insta-lust didn’t work for me at all.
Both Bodhi and Kim were okay characters but I didn’t find anything remarkable about them. Sadly, I didn’t connect with them at all. Their age is not mentioned as the story unfolds, but unfortunately I found both of them to be a little immature at times. From the moment I’ve read the blurb I was interested in these two characters’ forbidden story, but IMO even this aspect was just meh. Maybe because I expected the story to focus on this aspect more.
The chemistry between them was well done and palpable and I really enjoyed it, but the romantic aspect between them was poorly done in my opinion. There wasn’t any insta-love between them, but their relationship progressed way too fast for my liking. I wasn’t convinced at all they are in love with each other or…whatever. Also, the lack of communication between them annoyed me to no end.
The addiction aspect of the story wasn’t done like I had expected to be. Bodhi’s road to recovery was poorly done and his insta-fixing just pissed me off. Needless to say, almost every aspect of this story was rushed or underdeveloped. At least for me. I wouldn’t have minded the story to be longer and at least one the story’s aspects, preferably the relationship between the two main characters to be more developed.
Overall, just an okay read for me!
November 24, 2016
Blow by Heidi McLaughlin ~ 4 Stars
Bodhi has it all – stardom, money, success and girls dying to touch him. He is surrounded by parties, alcohol, drugs, and not so good friends. Slowly, he spirals out of control and eventually hits rock bottom. When Bodhi’s manager finds out about his bad behavior, she forces him to take a sabbatical from music to get help, saying he might lose his spot on the boy band Virtuous Paradox. Bodhi reluctantly goes to rehab but what he did not expect was to meet a beautiful guardian angel who just might be his healer. She happens to be the daughter of the owner and is assigned to assist Bodhi throughout his rehab. The chemistry between Bodhi and Kimberly is undeniable – it’s love at first sight for these two. Kim can see though Bodhi’s façade. She understands his demons and is determined to take care of him. Bodhi knows Kim is the one as he first lays eyes on her. He knows he needs to better himself, but also if he has any hope of winning Kim over he has to deserve her love.
I love Heidi’s gorgeous writing so it was a no brainer for me to pick up this book. This book deals with very difficult issues of addiction and I think the author did a good job of portraying how an addict thinks and the difficult road to recovery. However, I have a little bit of difficulty connecting with the heroine Kim. She seems to be a caring person but I did not agree with the fact that they get together so soon. It was definitely insta-love for them and the chemistry is sizzling. Nonetheless, I feel that Bodhi needs to focus on rehab and starting a new relationship is a distraction. Also, it did not bode well with me when Kim suggested Bodhi lie to the good doctor so they can get a private room and spend the night together. Anyway, this is just my opinion – I am sure looking at the other side of the coin; it was romantic what they go through to spend time with each other and sometimes you just can choose how you feel.
Overall, I think there is definitely a good storyline here – a fallen rock star dealing with addiction and meeting an angel who ended up saving him. I am just a sucker for angsty romance and ones that make me cry. On that note, I think Blow is a heartfelt story of finding yourself and redemption for Bodhi. It’s about finding love when you least expect it. The relationship between Bodhi and Kim is a bit taboo but there is something also HOT about that. The chemistry is definitely sizzling and there is no shortage of passion and sexy time. Blow was a fast easy read, low drama, low angst, plenty of passion and a sweet romance.
Bodhi has it all – stardom, money, success and girls dying to touch him. He is surrounded by parties, alcohol, drugs, and not so good friends. Slowly, he spirals out of control and eventually hits rock bottom. When Bodhi’s manager finds out about his bad behavior, she forces him to take a sabbatical from music to get help, saying he might lose his spot on the boy band Virtuous Paradox. Bodhi reluctantly goes to rehab but what he did not expect was to meet a beautiful guardian angel who just might be his healer. She happens to be the daughter of the owner and is assigned to assist Bodhi throughout his rehab. The chemistry between Bodhi and Kimberly is undeniable – it’s love at first sight for these two. Kim can see though Bodhi’s façade. She understands his demons and is determined to take care of him. Bodhi knows Kim is the one as he first lays eyes on her. He knows he needs to better himself, but also if he has any hope of winning Kim over he has to deserve her love.
I love Heidi’s gorgeous writing so it was a no brainer for me to pick up this book. This book deals with very difficult issues of addiction and I think the author did a good job of portraying how an addict thinks and the difficult road to recovery. However, I have a little bit of difficulty connecting with the heroine Kim. She seems to be a caring person but I did not agree with the fact that they get together so soon. It was definitely insta-love for them and the chemistry is sizzling. Nonetheless, I feel that Bodhi needs to focus on rehab and starting a new relationship is a distraction. Also, it did not bode well with me when Kim suggested Bodhi lie to the good doctor so they can get a private room and spend the night together. Anyway, this is just my opinion – I am sure looking at the other side of the coin; it was romantic what they go through to spend time with each other and sometimes you just can choose how you feel.
Overall, I think there is definitely a good storyline here – a fallen rock star dealing with addiction and meeting an angel who ended up saving him. I am just a sucker for angsty romance and ones that make me cry. On that note, I think Blow is a heartfelt story of finding yourself and redemption for Bodhi. It’s about finding love when you least expect it. The relationship between Bodhi and Kim is a bit taboo but there is something also HOT about that. The chemistry is definitely sizzling and there is no shortage of passion and sexy time. Blow was a fast easy read, low drama, low angst, plenty of passion and a sweet romance.
November 9, 2016
This is a hard review for me to write. While I have loved The Beaumont series by this author, Blow just didn't work for me.
Bodhi, member of Virtuous Paradox, is now set to spend the next thirty days in rehab for his drug addiction. While there, he meets Kimberly who will be his one-on-one person to help him while he is in the program. They meet in the morning and by night they are already in love. WHAT? Yes. I was shocked. I enjoy some insta-love but there are limits. And that was mine.
Being that one of the main characters was a drug addcited, I was hoping that the story would be deeper or inspiring but I didn't get any of that. What I got whilst reading this book was a superficial story and a pair of main characters that tried very hard to make me love them but didn't succeed.
Even though I only got a glimpse at the other members of the band, I think it was enough for me to be intrigued for the next book in the series. So will see.
Unfortunately, Blow didnt work for me but that doesnt mean it's not going to work for you so give it a chance, who knows, maybe you might like it. Don't forget this is just my opinion so happy reading.
Bodhi, member of Virtuous Paradox, is now set to spend the next thirty days in rehab for his drug addiction. While there, he meets Kimberly who will be his one-on-one person to help him while he is in the program. They meet in the morning and by night they are already in love. WHAT? Yes. I was shocked. I enjoy some insta-love but there are limits. And that was mine.
Being that one of the main characters was a drug addcited, I was hoping that the story would be deeper or inspiring but I didn't get any of that. What I got whilst reading this book was a superficial story and a pair of main characters that tried very hard to make me love them but didn't succeed.
Even though I only got a glimpse at the other members of the band, I think it was enough for me to be intrigued for the next book in the series. So will see.
Unfortunately, Blow didnt work for me but that doesnt mean it's not going to work for you so give it a chance, who knows, maybe you might like it. Don't forget this is just my opinion so happy reading.
February 9, 2017
I really liked this story. A story of privilege, excesses, the stress of new fame and drug addiction. The story of love and finding it when you shouldn't.
There are what could be seen as triggers for some people in the story, although without these "triggers" the story would be lacking and uninteresting at least to myself, they are a discovery of what started the addiction and then what to avoid to stay healthy. (This will be the only spoiler)
Bodhi is part of a new boy band with 2 others and his way of coping with the stress is snorting coke.
Kimberly is the daughter of Dr. Gordon the owner of Serenity Springs rehab. Kimberly works as a patient advocate and is assigned to Bodhi while he is staying at Serenity Springs Rehab.
Bodhi and Kim are so different from each other. Bodhi is the son of an actress and actor. He was born into a life of privilege. Kim was not. But sometimes the old saying "opposites attract" really could be true.
This was a complimentary ARC/e-copy provided by the author in exchange for an honest review via Netgalley.
There are what could be seen as triggers for some people in the story, although without these "triggers" the story would be lacking and uninteresting at least to myself, they are a discovery of what started the addiction and then what to avoid to stay healthy. (This will be the only spoiler)
Bodhi is part of a new boy band with 2 others and his way of coping with the stress is snorting coke.
Kimberly is the daughter of Dr. Gordon the owner of Serenity Springs rehab. Kimberly works as a patient advocate and is assigned to Bodhi while he is staying at Serenity Springs Rehab.
Bodhi and Kim are so different from each other. Bodhi is the son of an actress and actor. He was born into a life of privilege. Kim was not. But sometimes the old saying "opposites attract" really could be true.
This was a complimentary ARC/e-copy provided by the author in exchange for an honest review via Netgalley.
November 6, 2016
Dirty talking, sexy pop star - yes please! Bodhi McKnight finds himself on the receiving end of an intervention. His reliance on cocaine lands him in rehab. He's part of the popular boy band Virtuous Paradox. So when he gets out of control, the band manager and Bodhi's father step in and quietly get him into a discreet rehab facility. That's where he meets Kimberly Gordon. She works as a patient advocate at her father's facility and even though she knows its wrong she gets involved with the charismatic Bodhi. This is the point were I felt like the story fell apart for me. I feel like what could have been a great story didn't quite come together. There was very little about Bodhi's experience in rehab and it just made it all seem so easy which of course it isn't. So the story no longer felt real. This isn't really a bad story but just didn't ring true to me.
August 23, 2016
Advanced copy given by NetGalley in exchange for an HONEST review.
2.5 Stars
I am a true fan of Heidi McLaughlin's. I am just unable to connect with this story in anyway as such that i can give it more than a 2.5- 3.0 stars.
For me this story started out as a good gateway to a great story but it just never happened for me. Bodhi was a troubled man who landed himself in rehab. Kimberly was assigned to him as a patient advocate. I liked the idea of a forbidden romance and that inst pull of lust and attraction that had a deeper meaning. It just seems that after things were going well for them ( really quickly for Bodhi to be recovered- but hey it is fiction!) and then things just started to unravel for me.
Kimberly and Bodhi just became way to over the top for me and I could never fully get back into their story. I just could not connect to their stories or their romance. It just seemed forced for me.
~ Sherry
2.5 Stars
I am a true fan of Heidi McLaughlin's. I am just unable to connect with this story in anyway as such that i can give it more than a 2.5- 3.0 stars.
For me this story started out as a good gateway to a great story but it just never happened for me. Bodhi was a troubled man who landed himself in rehab. Kimberly was assigned to him as a patient advocate. I liked the idea of a forbidden romance and that inst pull of lust and attraction that had a deeper meaning. It just seems that after things were going well for them ( really quickly for Bodhi to be recovered- but hey it is fiction!) and then things just started to unravel for me.
Kimberly and Bodhi just became way to over the top for me and I could never fully get back into their story. I just could not connect to their stories or their romance. It just seemed forced for me.
~ Sherry
February 9, 2017
This review is based on an ARC provided by the author and/or the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest opinion.
3.5
I would have preferred a stronger hero, but I don't think it would have read right then. It was a nice little story.
3.5
I would have preferred a stronger hero, but I don't think it would have read right then. It was a nice little story.
Want to read
August 26, 2016
ARC generously provided via NetGalley for the exchange of an honest review***
March 9, 2017
Book Received through NetGalley for honest review.
This is the first book I have read by this author.
Unfortunately for me this book was just ok. I felt that it lacked depth to the story and it also felt a little rushed to me.
The main character's struggle with addiction didn't really feel like a struggle to me and for that reason I found it difficult to read. The relationship between Bodhi and Kimberley again was fast paced and I felt lacked in terms of any sort of depth between the two. I struggled to connect to the characters and the storyline.
This is the first book I have read by this author.
Unfortunately for me this book was just ok. I felt that it lacked depth to the story and it also felt a little rushed to me.
The main character's struggle with addiction didn't really feel like a struggle to me and for that reason I found it difficult to read. The relationship between Bodhi and Kimberley again was fast paced and I felt lacked in terms of any sort of depth between the two. I struggled to connect to the characters and the storyline.
September 26, 2016
Well I really liked it.... Give me a broken musician any day, add some hard edges and forbidden love and hey ho, it's a hit for me!
Tempted by some of the negative reviews, and also due to my love for stories about damaged musicians, I couldn’t resist giving this story a try. I’ve read other books by Heidi McLaughlin which were sweet and sentimental stories so I guess Blow came as a shock to some, but not me. Stories involving drug abuse, when handled carefully, are not a trigger for me. I’ve read many books about bands and musicians who are outwardly tough and who fall from grace only to be saved by a good woman, and that’s exactly what I found in Blow. Yes, Bodhi (I lurve that name) was an addict and we meet him at his lowest. He’s a jerk but he’s also troubled. He may come across as a petulant child at the start but give his character a chance. Whether you agree or not, he is still damaged and suffering from his childhood. Ok, so that’s no reason to become a spoilt brat and numbing yourself with narcotics but that’s just the way Bodhi managed to survive the constant pressure of being in a successful band and the child of famous parents.
From the moment his father steps in and demands he enter into rehab, Bodhi’s story is told alongside that of Kimberley Gordon’s. Kimberley works at the rehab facility and is assigned to Bodhi as a patient advocate. There to make his transition into rehab an easy one, emotionally, Kim is immediately attracted to this broken man. Of course she knows who is is, who wouldn’t when the front-man of a well-known band turns up, but she sees something more than fame in him. Through his treatment and the time they spend together, the two quickly become inseparable and Kim starts to fall for the man he is beneath his addicted musician outer shell. Deep within Bodhi she sees a man in pain and sets about to help him to help himself.
The handling of Bodhi’s drug addiction and rehabilitation did seem a little effortless but I guess if it followed true life then the book would have been endlessly long. The author adopted some artistic licence here and carried the story on into life beyond drugs for Bodhi and Kim which was, as expected, challenging. The question on everyone’s lips during Bodhi’s stint in rehab was will he relapse the minute he is on the outside, around his usual triggers and life pressures but to find that out you’ll need to read the book.
I did really enjoy this story. Not since I fell in love with Kellan Kyle have I found a man more damaged or more in need of love and affection. Yes it’s a forbidden romance that would bring about turmoil in real life and this was innocently smoothed over within this story, maybe at its detriment but that would have taken the story in a completely different direction and would have made Kim, rather than Bodhi, the focus of the book.
If you love Jade C Jamison’s Bullet series, or CM Stunich’s Hard Rock Roots series then I am sure you will love Blow and the Virtuous Paradox series. It’s romance on a knife-edge and lived out within the harsh realities of today’s music industry. If you’re looking for a softer, sweeter story about a musician then look elsewhere. If you want a rewarding story about a damaged man then dive on in, you’ll love it.
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November 8, 2016
Blow by Heild McLaighlin
Blow by Heidi McLaughlin is book one in the Virtuous Paradox series. This is a brand new series by Heidi and I love it!! Virtuous Paradox is a "boy band" type of group and this book is about Bodhi McKnight.
Bodhi is a rich entitled guy from 2 famous Hollywood parents who is now a singer in the current "it" group. Although it seems like he has it all, we find out money and fame cannot buy you happiness. This book opens as Bodhi and the band are finishing up their year long concert touring schedule. The band gets a 1 month hiatus before they start recording again and Bodhi decides to use this time to go on a 30 day drug binge. The condition his manager, father and Doctor find him and his drug dealing friend in is just heartbreaking. This scene was just really hard to read about and I was in tears.
Next up for Bodhi.... Rehab. Upon entering the exclusive ranch style rehab he Bodhi meets Kimberly Gordon, who acts as Bodhi's "friend" to help him settle in and feel comfortable. He immediately feels safe with Kim. Throughout his stay at rehab Bodhi and Kim get close, real close.
Bodhi really struggles with the way he grew up and I was completely lost in the scenes in rehab where he has to deal with his parents. Though they seem like really good people it's clear they weren't present as he was growing up. I loved how they each owned up to their mistakes but make it very clear that they are there to support and love and help him through his recovery. I also feel the love and respect Bodhi has for his band mates. He really regrets the way his drug use affected them all and I found him to be so remorseful. It was so refreshing to be in Bodhi's headspace and he wasn't some selfish jack ass. He really wanted others to like and trust and believe in him. He worked so hard while at the ranch to become the person he wanted to be!! I was very proud of him.
Having a secret relationship in rehab was fairly easy, life out in the real world was not. Distance, crazy work schedules and crazy exes all play a part in the new delicate romance between Bodhi and Kim. It seemed like they were always jumping through hoops just to have some time with each other. They really wanted their relationship to work, but we all know life is not that easy. Especially for a famous singer and recovering addict.
There were so many things about Bodhi that I absolutely fell in love with. He was such a dirty talking alpha in the bedroom, yet so sweet and sensitive outside of it. I love when he was vulnerable and needy just as much as when he was sexy and brooding. And let's not even go into the sexy times!! Damn, that Bodhi was one hot man!!
Struggles, determination and lots of sext scenes all make for an absolutely lovable new series! Blow made me fall in love over and over again and Heidi McLaughlin once again earns 5 sexy singing lip smacks from me!!!
Blow by Heidi McLaughlin is book one in the Virtuous Paradox series. This is a brand new series by Heidi and I love it!! Virtuous Paradox is a "boy band" type of group and this book is about Bodhi McKnight.
Bodhi is a rich entitled guy from 2 famous Hollywood parents who is now a singer in the current "it" group. Although it seems like he has it all, we find out money and fame cannot buy you happiness. This book opens as Bodhi and the band are finishing up their year long concert touring schedule. The band gets a 1 month hiatus before they start recording again and Bodhi decides to use this time to go on a 30 day drug binge. The condition his manager, father and Doctor find him and his drug dealing friend in is just heartbreaking. This scene was just really hard to read about and I was in tears.
Next up for Bodhi.... Rehab. Upon entering the exclusive ranch style rehab he Bodhi meets Kimberly Gordon, who acts as Bodhi's "friend" to help him settle in and feel comfortable. He immediately feels safe with Kim. Throughout his stay at rehab Bodhi and Kim get close, real close.
Bodhi really struggles with the way he grew up and I was completely lost in the scenes in rehab where he has to deal with his parents. Though they seem like really good people it's clear they weren't present as he was growing up. I loved how they each owned up to their mistakes but make it very clear that they are there to support and love and help him through his recovery. I also feel the love and respect Bodhi has for his band mates. He really regrets the way his drug use affected them all and I found him to be so remorseful. It was so refreshing to be in Bodhi's headspace and he wasn't some selfish jack ass. He really wanted others to like and trust and believe in him. He worked so hard while at the ranch to become the person he wanted to be!! I was very proud of him.
Having a secret relationship in rehab was fairly easy, life out in the real world was not. Distance, crazy work schedules and crazy exes all play a part in the new delicate romance between Bodhi and Kim. It seemed like they were always jumping through hoops just to have some time with each other. They really wanted their relationship to work, but we all know life is not that easy. Especially for a famous singer and recovering addict.
There were so many things about Bodhi that I absolutely fell in love with. He was such a dirty talking alpha in the bedroom, yet so sweet and sensitive outside of it. I love when he was vulnerable and needy just as much as when he was sexy and brooding. And let's not even go into the sexy times!! Damn, that Bodhi was one hot man!!
Struggles, determination and lots of sext scenes all make for an absolutely lovable new series! Blow made me fall in love over and over again and Heidi McLaughlin once again earns 5 sexy singing lip smacks from me!!!
November 2, 2016
Haven't we all gone through the boy band phase? Whether as teens or adults. I remember hearing all sorts of things before about that lifestyle. It can chew you up and spit you out. The music industry is crazy, lot goes on behind the scenes. In fact many young teen idols have had their fair share of problems. A whole range of them. Bodhi Mcknight had fallen into one of those trappings of fame. His is drug addiction and this is his story.
When Bodhi and Kimberly meet in Serenity Springs, the attraction is instant on both ends. No beating around the bush something draws them to each other and they acknowledge that. Kimberly knows who he is, doesn't hide her being a fan. I like it direct and straight. They form an easy friendship with a side of chemistry. Thing is it's not exactly allowed. Plus a whole slew of things to come.
While addiction it's a serious topic and sensitive one, here Heidi handled it with lightness. The best way the author can in this type of story. Every addict is different and I find Bodhi not the usual, I'm not sure what it is just not what I'm used to. His treatment goes by fast (rehab celebrity edition) and leaves me wondering if he can sustain. The biggest issue going something formed in rehab be brought outside. Will it work? While there is loads of potential for them it's going to be an uphill battle.
If I am being honest Bodhi as a name doesn't feel very boy band like. Maybe that was just me. Although he seemed like a good guy underneath, it felt to me was at first he didn't seem to want to get better only cause he had to be in rehab or else get kicked out of the group. Well that's a motivator but truthfully I wish that he had his own will to get better not for anyone else but for him. That made me feel less compelled for him. Things moved fast for them as a couple that it felt like the relationship overtook the recovery. Somehow I feel it felt so insta it could have been expounded to make things more solid. While I didn't feel their connection as strongly, together though I can see why they fell for one another. I feel like with the problems coming out at the end, it made for a rushed resolution on their story. I'm glad for the epilogue in this case.
Heidi Mclaughlin writes a interesting story about Virtuous Paradox. Life in the lime the limelight. This first being Bodhi's and his downward spiral. I like that it had two POVs and the writing was likable. It was entertaining, light, a few meaningful with heart felt moments plus a lot of heat from these two. I've liked previous books by the author but this was just ok for me. I was hoping for more and felt let down cause the promise of the concept sounded good. An ok start to a series, I'd be open to get to know the other memebers in the next books.
*** ARC generously provided by Netgalley and LoveSwept for review ***
When Bodhi and Kimberly meet in Serenity Springs, the attraction is instant on both ends. No beating around the bush something draws them to each other and they acknowledge that. Kimberly knows who he is, doesn't hide her being a fan. I like it direct and straight. They form an easy friendship with a side of chemistry. Thing is it's not exactly allowed. Plus a whole slew of things to come.
While addiction it's a serious topic and sensitive one, here Heidi handled it with lightness. The best way the author can in this type of story. Every addict is different and I find Bodhi not the usual, I'm not sure what it is just not what I'm used to. His treatment goes by fast (rehab celebrity edition) and leaves me wondering if he can sustain. The biggest issue going something formed in rehab be brought outside. Will it work? While there is loads of potential for them it's going to be an uphill battle.
If I am being honest Bodhi as a name doesn't feel very boy band like. Maybe that was just me. Although he seemed like a good guy underneath, it felt to me was at first he didn't seem to want to get better only cause he had to be in rehab or else get kicked out of the group. Well that's a motivator but truthfully I wish that he had his own will to get better not for anyone else but for him. That made me feel less compelled for him. Things moved fast for them as a couple that it felt like the relationship overtook the recovery. Somehow I feel it felt so insta it could have been expounded to make things more solid. While I didn't feel their connection as strongly, together though I can see why they fell for one another. I feel like with the problems coming out at the end, it made for a rushed resolution on their story. I'm glad for the epilogue in this case.
Heidi Mclaughlin writes a interesting story about Virtuous Paradox. Life in the lime the limelight. This first being Bodhi's and his downward spiral. I like that it had two POVs and the writing was likable. It was entertaining, light, a few meaningful with heart felt moments plus a lot of heat from these two. I've liked previous books by the author but this was just ok for me. I was hoping for more and felt let down cause the promise of the concept sounded good. An ok start to a series, I'd be open to get to know the other memebers in the next books.
*** ARC generously provided by Netgalley and LoveSwept for review ***
November 17, 2016
When I first read the synopsis of this book, I immediately thought that this would be one that I would love. The premise of the story kinda sounded like there was a bit of forbidden love about it and I am usually sucked in by those stories. As I progressed through the pages, disappointingly, I discovered that this story was lacking in the things that I had most wanted. I failed to feel any kind of anticipation or excitement at what was happening between the two main characters. Everything happened far too easily and quickly in my opinion which made Bodhi and Kimberly's relationship unrealistic given the challenges that I would have expected them to face. I also have to say that I was horrified by the use of the word "Twat" for Kimberley's vagina. It completely grossed me out and I just couldn't understand why the author would use that terminology.
Moving to the positives of the book; I found Bodhi and Kimberly to be likeable characters and I enjoyed the way the story played out in the end, especially the final few chapters where I was given a tiny bit of excitement. There was also a sweet epilogue to finish the story off. I am always a fan of epilogue's and this was one that made me happy.
As you can see there were things that I enjoyed about this book, but there was also a lot of things that I didn't like. Despite this, I don't think that it was an overall bad read, it just was not the one for me, unfortunately.
Moving to the positives of the book; I found Bodhi and Kimberly to be likeable characters and I enjoyed the way the story played out in the end, especially the final few chapters where I was given a tiny bit of excitement. There was also a sweet epilogue to finish the story off. I am always a fan of epilogue's and this was one that made me happy.
As you can see there were things that I enjoyed about this book, but there was also a lot of things that I didn't like. Despite this, I don't think that it was an overall bad read, it just was not the one for me, unfortunately.
November 9, 2016
This was my first read by Heidi McLaughlin and I’m a big fan rockstar romances so I found the synopsis intriguing.
I thought that Heidi McLaughlin did good with the beginning, but the lack of depth to the story and the main characters made me lose interest.
I like a juicy forbidden romance but I wasn’t invested with the lust at first sight. I couldn’t see past Kimberly’s lack of ethic as she didn’t know how to fight her attraction to Bodhi and they got physical pretty quickly; shows how they were both immature. There was a lack of passion outside of the lust, I wanted more angst and romance!
Their relationship didn’t convince me and by the end, I was just going through the motions. I enjoyed the author’s voice and the pacing, but these weren’t enough to keep me entertained.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
November 14, 2016
This is the first in a new series by an author I really like. Blow introduces us to the rock band Virtuous Paradox. This is Bodhi's story.
Bodhi finds himself in a downward spiral and with his manager and his parents intervention, he is headed to rehab. Even though he is humiliated at how far he has fallen, he is ever the player and starts the charm on his rehab "friend" Kimberly. She shuts him down immediately but still finds him intriguing.
The story follows Bodhi's time in rehab and a few months post rehab. It gives the reader some insight into the world of the professional musician and the temptation of addiction but is basically an inst-lust story that morphs into love between two unlikely and forbidden characters.
I appreciated the effort to help the reader understand the path to Bodhi's addiction and his road to the challenging world of recovery. I wanted as little more meat here since it is not ever an easy process. As long as the reader knows this going in, I think there is some joy to be had with Kim and Brodhi's HEA.
The secondary characters were more intriguing at times. I am looking forward to the other two bandmates stories. I would really like to read fellow addict, Susan's story, as well. Ok set up to the series. More goodness to come, I am sure!
*Complimentary copy received for an honest review.
Bodhi finds himself in a downward spiral and with his manager and his parents intervention, he is headed to rehab. Even though he is humiliated at how far he has fallen, he is ever the player and starts the charm on his rehab "friend" Kimberly. She shuts him down immediately but still finds him intriguing.
The story follows Bodhi's time in rehab and a few months post rehab. It gives the reader some insight into the world of the professional musician and the temptation of addiction but is basically an inst-lust story that morphs into love between two unlikely and forbidden characters.
I appreciated the effort to help the reader understand the path to Bodhi's addiction and his road to the challenging world of recovery. I wanted as little more meat here since it is not ever an easy process. As long as the reader knows this going in, I think there is some joy to be had with Kim and Brodhi's HEA.
The secondary characters were more intriguing at times. I am looking forward to the other two bandmates stories. I would really like to read fellow addict, Susan's story, as well. Ok set up to the series. More goodness to come, I am sure!
*Complimentary copy received for an honest review.
November 29, 2016
Bodhi and Kimberly find each other in a very unconventional surrounding…rehab. Bodhi is in an up and coming boy band but is taking a break because his father is forcing him to go to rehab to get clean. Bodhi was on the fast track to losing everything from his family, to his band and even his life if he kept this up much longer. Bodhi’s rich and famous father knows of a man who runs an exclusive rehab facility and is ready and willing to help Bodhi out. Kimberly’s father probably wasn’t figuring that his daughter would be part of Bodhi’s rehab. Some people believe in love at first sight and some are skeptical this is even possible. All I can say is that the way Ms. McLaughlin wrote this I became a believer.
Kimberly was there for Bodhi even though she tried to fight her feelings for him because what would a famous rock star want with someone who devoted her life to working at a rehab facility. I did like the journey that the author took me on and it gave me hope that yes, maybe there is such a thing as love at first sight and maybe it is possible that there is that one person who can help you fight the power that addiction can have over you and come out on the other end. I look forward to the next book in this series.
This book was provided as an ARC from NetGalley for an honest review.
Kimberly was there for Bodhi even though she tried to fight her feelings for him because what would a famous rock star want with someone who devoted her life to working at a rehab facility. I did like the journey that the author took me on and it gave me hope that yes, maybe there is such a thing as love at first sight and maybe it is possible that there is that one person who can help you fight the power that addiction can have over you and come out on the other end. I look forward to the next book in this series.
This book was provided as an ARC from NetGalley for an honest review.
December 2, 2017
I tried many times to finish this book, but it was impossible for me.
I finally gave up and called it a wash,
I finally gave up and called it a wash,
September 23, 2016
{Received from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review}
I am really torn about how to even rate this book. I had a hard time enjoying the first half of this book, but I really liked the second half. It was almost split down the middle with aspects of this book that I didn’t like and ones that I really loved. I have really been loving rock star romances lately and was hoping that would be the case with this book, but unfortunately, the first half of this book really affected my rating.
I really loved the idea of this story. I thought it would be a twist on the typical rocker romance by adding in the rehab. I was hoping that it would be emotional and inspiring, but that aspect of the plot was my least favorite. I imagined that it would have been deep and inspirational, but it felt very superficial and surface level. I also thought that it was a little too slowly paced because it was lacking the depth and character development that I was hoping for.
However, I really loved the second part of the book. This was probably because it took place outside of the rehab facility, was faster paced and the romance became deeper. This second portion is where I felt like I really started to like the characters and see their relationship grow and strengthen. I also enjoyed that the plot became more interesting. However, it still lacked the depth that I was really hoping for.
I am a little torn with how I felt about the characters. I liked Bodhi, but never truly fell in love with him. I felt like his character development was okay, but I never really seen him switch completely from an addict to someone who is struggling to be clean. It felt like from the first page of the book to the last, he was still exactly the same. I just wanted to see something more! I really, really wanted more development in Kim’s character. I did not dislike her, but I did not like her. She was just kind of there.
However, I LOVED the secondary characters. The other members in Bodhi’s band…heck yes! I really liked them and am very, VERY intrigued about their stories. I just wanted to know more about them. The set-up in this book for their stories was perfect. I think this might be a case of were the first book was okay, but the next are amazing! I am really hoping that the second book focuses on Natalie and Brayden because I think that I would LOVE their story.
One major flaw in this book is the insta-love. I could probably overlook everything, but that is one of my biggest pet peeves. The rehab was 30 days, which in my opinion is not long enough to say you love the person. And if I am not mistaken, I think Bodhi’s internal dialogue said he loved Kim way before that. Their relationship almost seemed like it materialized out of thin air. I felt like they didn’t know anything about each other before they were saying they loved one another. It just did not feel genuine or heart-felt at all, which really hindered the story for me. I started to warm up to their romance in the second half of the plot, but without the initial development of their relationship, it still was not enough.
So I do have to mention one specific instance that really, REALLY hindered me from liking this book. It is slightly a spoiler, but it will only be this paragraph. There is one instance where Bodhi and Kim have unprotected sex and Kim starts to freak out (rightfully so). Bodhi gets all butt hurt when she tells him why she is upset. He storms out, cries in his room and then threatens that he wanted to leave. She just had unprotected sex with a cocaine addict who she barley knows! She should be freaking out and Bodhi should not have held that against her. Him more than anyone should know that your sexual inhibitions go out the window when you are high. Heck, at the beginning of the book he lets his drug dealer move in and then does sexual stuff with her only because he wanted drugs. It really annoyed me and I would have liked it much better if Bodhi would have comforted and reassured Kim, rather than her having to do so to him.
Overall, I had a hard time completely investing myself into this story because of the flaws. I think this is a story that some readers might like, but now that I am delving deeper into romance books, I just expect more. I really do want to read the next book if it focuses on one of the other members in the band. I think I will try to pick something else by Heidi McLaughlin because I did enjoy the writing.
I am really torn about how to even rate this book. I had a hard time enjoying the first half of this book, but I really liked the second half. It was almost split down the middle with aspects of this book that I didn’t like and ones that I really loved. I have really been loving rock star romances lately and was hoping that would be the case with this book, but unfortunately, the first half of this book really affected my rating.
I really loved the idea of this story. I thought it would be a twist on the typical rocker romance by adding in the rehab. I was hoping that it would be emotional and inspiring, but that aspect of the plot was my least favorite. I imagined that it would have been deep and inspirational, but it felt very superficial and surface level. I also thought that it was a little too slowly paced because it was lacking the depth and character development that I was hoping for.
However, I really loved the second part of the book. This was probably because it took place outside of the rehab facility, was faster paced and the romance became deeper. This second portion is where I felt like I really started to like the characters and see their relationship grow and strengthen. I also enjoyed that the plot became more interesting. However, it still lacked the depth that I was really hoping for.
I am a little torn with how I felt about the characters. I liked Bodhi, but never truly fell in love with him. I felt like his character development was okay, but I never really seen him switch completely from an addict to someone who is struggling to be clean. It felt like from the first page of the book to the last, he was still exactly the same. I just wanted to see something more! I really, really wanted more development in Kim’s character. I did not dislike her, but I did not like her. She was just kind of there.
However, I LOVED the secondary characters. The other members in Bodhi’s band…heck yes! I really liked them and am very, VERY intrigued about their stories. I just wanted to know more about them. The set-up in this book for their stories was perfect. I think this might be a case of were the first book was okay, but the next are amazing! I am really hoping that the second book focuses on Natalie and Brayden because I think that I would LOVE their story.
One major flaw in this book is the insta-love. I could probably overlook everything, but that is one of my biggest pet peeves. The rehab was 30 days, which in my opinion is not long enough to say you love the person. And if I am not mistaken, I think Bodhi’s internal dialogue said he loved Kim way before that. Their relationship almost seemed like it materialized out of thin air. I felt like they didn’t know anything about each other before they were saying they loved one another. It just did not feel genuine or heart-felt at all, which really hindered the story for me. I started to warm up to their romance in the second half of the plot, but without the initial development of their relationship, it still was not enough.
So I do have to mention one specific instance that really, REALLY hindered me from liking this book. It is slightly a spoiler, but it will only be this paragraph. There is one instance where Bodhi and Kim have unprotected sex and Kim starts to freak out (rightfully so). Bodhi gets all butt hurt when she tells him why she is upset. He storms out, cries in his room and then threatens that he wanted to leave. She just had unprotected sex with a cocaine addict who she barley knows! She should be freaking out and Bodhi should not have held that against her. Him more than anyone should know that your sexual inhibitions go out the window when you are high. Heck, at the beginning of the book he lets his drug dealer move in and then does sexual stuff with her only because he wanted drugs. It really annoyed me and I would have liked it much better if Bodhi would have comforted and reassured Kim, rather than her having to do so to him.
Overall, I had a hard time completely investing myself into this story because of the flaws. I think this is a story that some readers might like, but now that I am delving deeper into romance books, I just expect more. I really do want to read the next book if it focuses on one of the other members in the band. I think I will try to pick something else by Heidi McLaughlin because I did enjoy the writing.
November 16, 2016
***Full Review***
4 EMOTIONAL CROWNS
Blow by Heidi McLaughlin is an emotionally charged tale of a famous boy-band sensation that has hit rock bottom. This tale of redemption and healing will certainly affect readers, as my heart ached through most of the book for Bodhi and how broken he was by the industry and his past.
Bodhi is unlike most heroes that I love. Yes, he has the confidence that most musicians have, but he also has numerous insecurities. These insecurities become the main focus of his character as they are what drive his drug addiction, and the little glimpses of the cocky boy-band member only serve to remind the reader of what he could be. These self-doubts make him an incredibly sympathetic character. Watching him break are some of the hardest scenes to watch, and readers' hearts will ache for his turmoil. But Bodhi is much more than a drug addict, and Heidi McLaughlin writes his character in a way that makes him completely sympathetic to the reader. The fact that he has used drugs and has done some reprehensible acts doesn't detract from his likability, and this is due in large part to the remorse that he shows, as he does not shy away from sharing his emotions. These emotional moments, once again, set him apart from the usual heroes that are in romance novels, but I found that I enjoyed this type of hero. His openness was refreshing, and his dedication to getting better and his focus on what matters makes this hero become one of the favorites.
Kim, the heroine, and his one-on-one counselor is everything that Bodhi needs. She is incredibly sympathetic to his character and other drug users, and her kindness and acceptance of drug addicts are some of her best qualities. There are times throughout that her faith in Bodhi wavers, and readers will want to be mad at her for it, but readers can't blame her for some of her doubts. This struggle within her makes their relationship rocky at times, but it is necessary to the development of the story and the two as a couple.
The other two men in the band are also incredibly fantastic, and I cannot wait for their story. They have unwavering support for Bodhi, and readers get enough interaction from them to become invested in their stories. I know I am excited to see where she takes their stories as well as the band's.
The plot of this story will draw readers in as it focuses on the tale of Bodhi's recovery. His agonizing decent into drug addiction, his long road to recover, seeing him change and evolve is emotional and completely captivated me. Even when I wasn't reading, I found myself thinking about the story and about his character. What I love most about the plot is the conflict and resolution of the story. While this general story line provided little to no surprises, I enjoyed the actual conflict and the twist she gave it as well as the resolution. Readers will also be very happy with ending the author provides for Bodhi. It completely melted my heart!
This has been my first novel by Heidi McLaughlin, but it won't be my last. The emotional journey not only gave romance readers what they love, but also sheds light on the struggles of drug additcs, and these are the type of books that really speak to me. I will anxiously be awaiting the next book in the series.
---------------
ARC received in exchange for an honest review.
For more reviews and other books news, check out Musings of the Modern Belle at www.modernbellebooks.com.
4 EMOTIONAL CROWNS
Blow by Heidi McLaughlin is an emotionally charged tale of a famous boy-band sensation that has hit rock bottom. This tale of redemption and healing will certainly affect readers, as my heart ached through most of the book for Bodhi and how broken he was by the industry and his past.
Bodhi is unlike most heroes that I love. Yes, he has the confidence that most musicians have, but he also has numerous insecurities. These insecurities become the main focus of his character as they are what drive his drug addiction, and the little glimpses of the cocky boy-band member only serve to remind the reader of what he could be. These self-doubts make him an incredibly sympathetic character. Watching him break are some of the hardest scenes to watch, and readers' hearts will ache for his turmoil. But Bodhi is much more than a drug addict, and Heidi McLaughlin writes his character in a way that makes him completely sympathetic to the reader. The fact that he has used drugs and has done some reprehensible acts doesn't detract from his likability, and this is due in large part to the remorse that he shows, as he does not shy away from sharing his emotions. These emotional moments, once again, set him apart from the usual heroes that are in romance novels, but I found that I enjoyed this type of hero. His openness was refreshing, and his dedication to getting better and his focus on what matters makes this hero become one of the favorites.
Kim, the heroine, and his one-on-one counselor is everything that Bodhi needs. She is incredibly sympathetic to his character and other drug users, and her kindness and acceptance of drug addicts are some of her best qualities. There are times throughout that her faith in Bodhi wavers, and readers will want to be mad at her for it, but readers can't blame her for some of her doubts. This struggle within her makes their relationship rocky at times, but it is necessary to the development of the story and the two as a couple.
The other two men in the band are also incredibly fantastic, and I cannot wait for their story. They have unwavering support for Bodhi, and readers get enough interaction from them to become invested in their stories. I know I am excited to see where she takes their stories as well as the band's.
The plot of this story will draw readers in as it focuses on the tale of Bodhi's recovery. His agonizing decent into drug addiction, his long road to recover, seeing him change and evolve is emotional and completely captivated me. Even when I wasn't reading, I found myself thinking about the story and about his character. What I love most about the plot is the conflict and resolution of the story. While this general story line provided little to no surprises, I enjoyed the actual conflict and the twist she gave it as well as the resolution. Readers will also be very happy with ending the author provides for Bodhi. It completely melted my heart!
This has been my first novel by Heidi McLaughlin, but it won't be my last. The emotional journey not only gave romance readers what they love, but also sheds light on the struggles of drug additcs, and these are the type of books that really speak to me. I will anxiously be awaiting the next book in the series.
---------------
ARC received in exchange for an honest review.
For more reviews and other books news, check out Musings of the Modern Belle at www.modernbellebooks.com.
November 6, 2016
Heidi McLaughlin’s Blow covered such a sensitive topic portrayed by Bodhi, a rising musician who himself had been born and raised into a famous and wealthy family. Left to be cared for by nannies with big bucks at his disposal, he finds himself in a dangerous point in his life, struggling with drug addiction. As many know, drugs don’t look at people’s bank accounts, it doesn’t care what you look like, where you come from, and whether you’re a son, a daughter, a father, or a mother. It’s a battle that many have lost their lives to and one that will continue to take many more. It’s not only a serious matter, but a very personal one at that. So when I read the premise of Blow, I had anticipated that it would take me under the darkest recesses of drug addiction, hopeful to ultimately find a bright sense of redemption in the end. However, what I found instead was a story that didn’t even skim the top layer of my expectations.
I thought that the author did a great job with the start of the story, seeing Bodhi’s struggles with his drug addiction into his eventual surrender going into rehab. It’s when he enters the doors of Serenity Springs that things begin to take a much different direction. Meeting Kimberly, a therapist who works with patients suddenly switches Bodhi’s mentality. It was quickly a race to win her heart and the need to bed her instead of focusing on himself and in getting better. I mean, I’ve never dealt with drug addiction but I could only imagine that it couldn’t have been that easy! That’s my biggest qualm about this book. I wish that Ms. McLaughlin would have taken Brodhi’s character deeper into his struggles in order for readers to genuinely feel a connection and feel a sense of redemption for him. I kept thinking, “take us alongside his journey during such a life altering moment!” And Kimberly, oh goodness. I had so many notes on my Kindle about her—I mean, she’s a therapist who is supposed to care and to empathize with her patients but during so many moments in this book, all she does is judge Bodhi’s addiction and put him down. We don’t ever see her truly helping anyone but herself.
The instant connection between Bodhi and Kimberly was legitimately strong—so strong that he had her eating out from the palm of his hand hours after their first meeting. There was never any real guilt about stepping over the patient/therapy boundary either. It was a one man after himself mentality when it came to these two. I am all for those insta-loves but for some reason this one didn’t resonate well with me at all. It may have been because of the situation they were both in and the lack of real passion outside of the lust. I don’t know… I can’t quite put my finger on it.
I’ve enjoyed this author’s previous works and I had such high hopes for this book. From its cover to its premise, it held lots of promise. Unfortunately, many of the book’s content did not deliver on that promise. However, if you’re able to look past my qualms and you’re looking for something fast and romantic then you may enjoy Blow much more than I did. As with all reviews, mine is subjective and of my own opinions. What may have not worked for me, may exactly be the gem you’re looking for.
**ARC provided by publisher for an HONEST review**
I thought that the author did a great job with the start of the story, seeing Bodhi’s struggles with his drug addiction into his eventual surrender going into rehab. It’s when he enters the doors of Serenity Springs that things begin to take a much different direction. Meeting Kimberly, a therapist who works with patients suddenly switches Bodhi’s mentality. It was quickly a race to win her heart and the need to bed her instead of focusing on himself and in getting better. I mean, I’ve never dealt with drug addiction but I could only imagine that it couldn’t have been that easy! That’s my biggest qualm about this book. I wish that Ms. McLaughlin would have taken Brodhi’s character deeper into his struggles in order for readers to genuinely feel a connection and feel a sense of redemption for him. I kept thinking, “take us alongside his journey during such a life altering moment!” And Kimberly, oh goodness. I had so many notes on my Kindle about her—I mean, she’s a therapist who is supposed to care and to empathize with her patients but during so many moments in this book, all she does is judge Bodhi’s addiction and put him down. We don’t ever see her truly helping anyone but herself.
The instant connection between Bodhi and Kimberly was legitimately strong—so strong that he had her eating out from the palm of his hand hours after their first meeting. There was never any real guilt about stepping over the patient/therapy boundary either. It was a one man after himself mentality when it came to these two. I am all for those insta-loves but for some reason this one didn’t resonate well with me at all. It may have been because of the situation they were both in and the lack of real passion outside of the lust. I don’t know… I can’t quite put my finger on it.
I’ve enjoyed this author’s previous works and I had such high hopes for this book. From its cover to its premise, it held lots of promise. Unfortunately, many of the book’s content did not deliver on that promise. However, if you’re able to look past my qualms and you’re looking for something fast and romantic then you may enjoy Blow much more than I did. As with all reviews, mine is subjective and of my own opinions. What may have not worked for me, may exactly be the gem you’re looking for.
**ARC provided by publisher for an HONEST review**
September 6, 2016
3.5
"Lust at first sight"
stars.
This was my first read by this author. I'm a big fan of music themes and rockstar romance so of course I found this synopsis intriguing. The story is told in multiple POV so I had the opportunity to be inside the heads of both Bodhi and Kimberly as they succumbed to "Lust at first sight." I found that to be a little hard to believe since he was only hours into detoxing, but this is fiction, and insta-love is romantic, right?
My heart broke for Bodhi as he gave in to the pressures of stardom, turning to drugs, believing he could handle it. Insisting that he could stop any time he wanted to. He is the privileged son of famous parents in the movie industry who left his care to others for most of his childhood. He made a bad choice that cost him a lot. That high that made it easier to get through the exhausting demands of his career was also his downfall. While it felt great, it was short lived and he found himself constantly craving the next one. It became the only thing he looked forward to. It made him numb to everything and everyone around him. He might have continued on that destructive path to nowhere, ending his career, if not for his father's intervention. Faced with the choice of rehab or being cut off by his family and his band he finally realized what a mess he had made of his life. But if taking another hit at that moment had been one of the choices, he would have taken it.
Kimberly knew as soon as she saw Bodhi that she should have let another staff member work with him. She felt the sparks immediately and knew it would be a struggle to maintain a professional relationship with him. She was drawn to him like a magnet to metal. Being the daughter of the boss gave her some privileges, but it also held her to a higher standard. She didn't want to lie to her father or break the rules... but she did. Who could resist those striking blue eyes, washboard abs, and that sexy voice? When she confides in her best friend, Daphne, about her impure thoughts about her celebrity patient, her friend reminds her that, "Your heart doesn't know the difference; only your brain does. You can listen to your brain and keep a wall up, or you can listen to your heart and maybe let him in."
Blow is a short, sweet story about Bodhi's heart craving Kimberly more than his body craved the drugs. While I enjoyed the story, I had a little trouble connecting to the characters. They felt very young and immature despite the fact that they were approaching their 30's. Maybe it was because they both seemed to be still under the influence and control of their parents. I'd be interested to see another side of the characters once the band goes on tour in the near future. I'm sure the concert and tour bus experience will take the series to another level when they aren't under the constant supervision of their authority figures.
This was my first read by this author. I'm a big fan of music themes and rockstar romance so of course I found this synopsis intriguing. The story is told in multiple POV so I had the opportunity to be inside the heads of both Bodhi and Kimberly as they succumbed to "Lust at first sight." I found that to be a little hard to believe since he was only hours into detoxing, but this is fiction, and insta-love is romantic, right?
My heart broke for Bodhi as he gave in to the pressures of stardom, turning to drugs, believing he could handle it. Insisting that he could stop any time he wanted to. He is the privileged son of famous parents in the movie industry who left his care to others for most of his childhood. He made a bad choice that cost him a lot. That high that made it easier to get through the exhausting demands of his career was also his downfall. While it felt great, it was short lived and he found himself constantly craving the next one. It became the only thing he looked forward to. It made him numb to everything and everyone around him. He might have continued on that destructive path to nowhere, ending his career, if not for his father's intervention. Faced with the choice of rehab or being cut off by his family and his band he finally realized what a mess he had made of his life. But if taking another hit at that moment had been one of the choices, he would have taken it.
Kimberly knew as soon as she saw Bodhi that she should have let another staff member work with him. She felt the sparks immediately and knew it would be a struggle to maintain a professional relationship with him. She was drawn to him like a magnet to metal. Being the daughter of the boss gave her some privileges, but it also held her to a higher standard. She didn't want to lie to her father or break the rules... but she did. Who could resist those striking blue eyes, washboard abs, and that sexy voice? When she confides in her best friend, Daphne, about her impure thoughts about her celebrity patient, her friend reminds her that, "Your heart doesn't know the difference; only your brain does. You can listen to your brain and keep a wall up, or you can listen to your heart and maybe let him in."
Blow is a short, sweet story about Bodhi's heart craving Kimberly more than his body craved the drugs. While I enjoyed the story, I had a little trouble connecting to the characters. They felt very young and immature despite the fact that they were approaching their 30's. Maybe it was because they both seemed to be still under the influence and control of their parents. I'd be interested to see another side of the characters once the band goes on tour in the near future. I'm sure the concert and tour bus experience will take the series to another level when they aren't under the constant supervision of their authority figures.
March 9, 2018
Heidi McLaughlin is not a new author name for me, but I had yet to read any of her books. She has been on my radar for some time but always due to a typical blogger lack of time I did not have the chance to read something.
Especially as I do not like to start in the middle of a series with a new author. So when I now stumbled on a new series by her and had the chance to grab an advanced reading copy I went for it.
“Blow” is the first book in the new “Virtuous Paradox” series. And I have to say reading this book left me impressed and even more with the feeling that I need to read some of the previous books by this author.
A lot of things felt unusual about this plot but in a good way, as they were missing out on the expected clichés. Like for example Bodhi’s parents – they were difficult, strange yet somehow loving when needed.
And a lot of stuff was handled in a raw way leaving out all of the sugarcoating ways that are used. So I really felt good about reading this book. While the plot itself might not have been new, the author used a refreshing way to approach the stardom and addiction.
Bodhi was not a “sweet” guy, the way he was written felt raw at most times – he sometimes felt that he was pathetic even, I can not agree with that. I thought he was honest which is a rare treat in that given environment. I did not quite get WHY he was actually in that boy band because really he did not need any of this.
When meeting Kimberley the reader gets to experience first hand the building friendship between her and him. And I was able to relate to their growing attraction and all the problems that come with it.
Amongst all of this banter in their growing relationship there is also some suspense hidden at a moment when you least expect it which was an nice treat in a romance when done right. And here it sure happened the right way.
I can honestly say that I look forward to the next book of this series and I will surely no go back and take a closer look at the older books by this author.
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August 29, 2016
"When you physically crave or desire an object, there isn't anything that is going to stand in your way."
This is a heartfelt story. The beginning of this story is very strong and pulls you in right away. The story is gripping and it's raw and it's real.
Bodhi is dealing with addiction and Kimberly is his patient advocate. I felt Heidi McLaughlin wrote about such a serious and sensitive subject matter with a lot of thought and care. Addiction is something that a person will deal with for the rest of their life and, I was glad to see that once out of rehab, the author still noted the urges; but the story then focused more on the relationship. I thought there could have been more thoughts and feelings as to what Bohdi was going through once out from rehab and dealing with the stress of his life, rather than just a few thoughts in passing.
There are a lot of ups and downs in this story. Trust is difficult by all, but the support system Bodhi has is tremendous, his parents, his friends, Kimberly. The struggles by all are felt, the love and support truly touching.
"There are so many things I want to say to Kimberly. But the most important is that she didn't need to love me in order to save me; she just needed to be my friend."
Bodhi is trying very hard to be a better person and it is beautiful to watch his growth. He and Kimberly will not have it easy with all of the obstacles to overcome and it's heartfelt to watch them fall into each other. I would have liked to have seen a little more of their relationship growth and their time together once they got through a certain incident.
"I don't even know the words to describe what it's like, but if I had to, I'd say my heart is having a f’ing party every time you're near, and when you’re not, well, every part of me just aches."
There are some very intense scenes that were written really well and really drew out emotions. The descriptors made me feel like I was going through what was happening to Bodhi. There were times I clutched my chest and times I held my breath.
The ending left me with a full heart and a smile on my face.
"It's amazing what therapy, a decent meal, and love can do for someone."
This is a heartfelt story. The beginning of this story is very strong and pulls you in right away. The story is gripping and it's raw and it's real.
Bodhi is dealing with addiction and Kimberly is his patient advocate. I felt Heidi McLaughlin wrote about such a serious and sensitive subject matter with a lot of thought and care. Addiction is something that a person will deal with for the rest of their life and, I was glad to see that once out of rehab, the author still noted the urges; but the story then focused more on the relationship. I thought there could have been more thoughts and feelings as to what Bohdi was going through once out from rehab and dealing with the stress of his life, rather than just a few thoughts in passing.
There are a lot of ups and downs in this story. Trust is difficult by all, but the support system Bodhi has is tremendous, his parents, his friends, Kimberly. The struggles by all are felt, the love and support truly touching.
"There are so many things I want to say to Kimberly. But the most important is that she didn't need to love me in order to save me; she just needed to be my friend."
Bodhi is trying very hard to be a better person and it is beautiful to watch his growth. He and Kimberly will not have it easy with all of the obstacles to overcome and it's heartfelt to watch them fall into each other. I would have liked to have seen a little more of their relationship growth and their time together once they got through a certain incident.
"I don't even know the words to describe what it's like, but if I had to, I'd say my heart is having a f’ing party every time you're near, and when you’re not, well, every part of me just aches."
There are some very intense scenes that were written really well and really drew out emotions. The descriptors made me feel like I was going through what was happening to Bodhi. There were times I clutched my chest and times I held my breath.
The ending left me with a full heart and a smile on my face.
"It's amazing what therapy, a decent meal, and love can do for someone."
November 8, 2016
This was a tough one for me. I'm still caught between a 2.5 to 3 star rating......
“Kiss me. Kiss me like you’re never going to see me again. Kiss me like I’m the last woman alive. Kiss me like I’m your salvation.”
Overall, I thought this book was an ok read. I really liked the idea of the story and felt like it started off with a bang. From the moment I met Bodhi, I just wanted to know more about him and why his life was spiraling so far out of control. Kimberly was an interesting character to me. I appreciated how patient she was and how good of a friend she became to Bodhi.
However, I did have some issues with the story. The biggest ones were the pacing and word usage. Lets tackle the pacing first. For the most part, the pacing of the story was right on track. My issue came into play with Kimberly and Bodhi’s relationship. It didn’t feel very believable and it just progressed way too quickly. I found it very hard to connect with them. I would have liked for them to get to really know one another more. Maybe spend some more time out of recovery, before jumping into a relationship. I would have really liked to see the two of them build their relationship and their connection. Now, please don’t get me wrong, these two had excellent sexual chemistry, but I needed more from them than that. My other big issue was some of the terms used during the sexual moments. I’m not going to go into the specifics, but I will just say that there are some words that are a complete turn off, and sadly, these few were just that for me.
So, yeah, overall this book was just an ok read for me. I struggled with some parts of it, and that’s the reasoning behind my 2.5-3 star rating. I don’t know how I really feel about it, so I’m just going to leave it that way…at least for now. Honestly, I think this is going to be just one of those books that you’re going to love or you’re going to hate. For me, like I said, it was just ok.
*I was provided an ARC copy of this book, via NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review*
“Kiss me. Kiss me like you’re never going to see me again. Kiss me like I’m the last woman alive. Kiss me like I’m your salvation.”
Overall, I thought this book was an ok read. I really liked the idea of the story and felt like it started off with a bang. From the moment I met Bodhi, I just wanted to know more about him and why his life was spiraling so far out of control. Kimberly was an interesting character to me. I appreciated how patient she was and how good of a friend she became to Bodhi.
However, I did have some issues with the story. The biggest ones were the pacing and word usage. Lets tackle the pacing first. For the most part, the pacing of the story was right on track. My issue came into play with Kimberly and Bodhi’s relationship. It didn’t feel very believable and it just progressed way too quickly. I found it very hard to connect with them. I would have liked for them to get to really know one another more. Maybe spend some more time out of recovery, before jumping into a relationship. I would have really liked to see the two of them build their relationship and their connection. Now, please don’t get me wrong, these two had excellent sexual chemistry, but I needed more from them than that. My other big issue was some of the terms used during the sexual moments. I’m not going to go into the specifics, but I will just say that there are some words that are a complete turn off, and sadly, these few were just that for me.
So, yeah, overall this book was just an ok read for me. I struggled with some parts of it, and that’s the reasoning behind my 2.5-3 star rating. I don’t know how I really feel about it, so I’m just going to leave it that way…at least for now. Honestly, I think this is going to be just one of those books that you’re going to love or you’re going to hate. For me, like I said, it was just ok.
*I was provided an ARC copy of this book, via NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review*
October 30, 2016
I'll be honest and tell you that when I saw the lower ratings on Goodreads, I DID NOT read the reviews to go along with them. I didn't want anything to distract me from starting this new one from such a beloved author. That being said, after finishing BLOW, I let out a big sigh. I had such high hopes for this romance and it just missed the mark for me. After devouring The Archer Brothers series, the bar was set so damn high, and BLOW didn't even reach the middle ground.
The lack of depth in these characters was what really turned me off. I needed more from them and after reading this, I felt like I didn't connect with them at all. Although the chemistry between Bodhi and Kim was unmistakable, it didn't translate to the romance I wanted it to be. It could have been the circumstances around their meeting that I couldn't wrap my head around, or it could have been the lack of connection I had with the characters individually. Either way, it was a big miss for me. I'm happy to say that I did complete the story, but by the end, I was just going through the motions.
I wanted MORE...I expected MORE...and I didn't get it. It's sad to write this kind of review. They are always hard, especially with an author that I adore. All I can say is that if you are a fan of this author, you can give this one a try, but don't set your expectations too high, or the disappointment will be even more hard.
We only got a tiny glimpse at the other members of the boy band, and it was not enough for me to be intrigued for the next installment.
The lack of depth in these characters was what really turned me off. I needed more from them and after reading this, I felt like I didn't connect with them at all. Although the chemistry between Bodhi and Kim was unmistakable, it didn't translate to the romance I wanted it to be. It could have been the circumstances around their meeting that I couldn't wrap my head around, or it could have been the lack of connection I had with the characters individually. Either way, it was a big miss for me. I'm happy to say that I did complete the story, but by the end, I was just going through the motions.
I wanted MORE...I expected MORE...and I didn't get it. It's sad to write this kind of review. They are always hard, especially with an author that I adore. All I can say is that if you are a fan of this author, you can give this one a try, but don't set your expectations too high, or the disappointment will be even more hard.
We only got a tiny glimpse at the other members of the boy band, and it was not enough for me to be intrigued for the next installment.
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