Review: Burn Bright (Cobalt Empire, #1)

Burn Bright by Krista and Becca Ritchie
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

If you’re already a fan of the Addicted/Calloway world, buckle up -- because Burn Bright is a rich, emotional, character-driven return to everything we’ve ever loved about the Cobalts…and then some. From the very first page (hello, Kappa Phi Delta throwback), this book reminded me exactly why Krista & Becca Ritchie remain the queens of writing compelling, complex, lovable chaos.

At its heart, this is Ben Cobalt’s story -- and wow, is it his story. Ben Cobalt’s journey is raw, heartbreaking, and so incredibly worth it. Ben’s struggles are told with such raw honesty that it tore me up in the best way. The sibling dynamics? Perfect. The Wednesday Night Cobalt Dinners, the sibling banter, and the unexpected revelations are some of the most memorable moments in this book.

And Harriet Fisher? A powerhouse. Their relationship builds slowly, intensely, and beautifully. The emotional payoff is EVERYTHING. There's so much more I want to say, but I don't want to spoil anything for you, so you'll just have to read it!

There are so many beautiful details that make this book feel lived-in and the subtle callbacks to past books, it’s clear that Krista & Becca wrote this from the heart, trusting their instincts and giving longtime fans exactly what we’ve been craving.

Whether you’re here for the nostalgia, the new ships, the Cobalt chaos, or the emotional wreckage (guilty 🙋🏻‍♀️), this book delivers.


Final thoughts:

This book had me LAUGHING, SOBBING, and SCREAMING into the void. I bookmarked every single moment.

10/10 for character development, 11/10 for emotional devastation, and a thousand stars for Ben Cobalt -- the bluebird in the lion’s den.

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Review: Nobody Like Us (Like Us, #13)

Nobody Like Us by Krista and Becca Ritchie
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

OMFG. This book should come with a warning label: do not to read in public. It put me through an emotional rollercoaster.



By the way, this book is massive! A chunkster. I took my time reading it because I wanted to savor every moment since this is the last book of the series. And wow, what an epic ending to the series. I couldn't think of anyone better or more fitting to close this chapter other than Luna and Donnelly. I've been invested in these characters from the very start (from the parents/first generation, the Addicted Series) and none of the other books evoked such emotion from me (close second is Some Kind of Perfect). There were so many laugh-out-loud moments, heartbreaking moments, heartwarming moments, some OMFG moments, and ugly cry moments. I haven't cried so much from a book in so long.



Luna and Donnelly have my heart and this book has everything I could ever ask for. It's the best ending.

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Review: Unlucky Like Us (Like Us, #12)

Unlucky Like Us by Krista and Becca Ritchie
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This book deserves all the cosmic stars.

I don't even know how to write this review without giving anything away.

I guess I'll start by saying all the parallels between Lunnelly's and LiLo's story makes my heart sing! This book in particular definitely reminds me of one of my favorite quotes from Addicted After All

"You have the purest parts of my heart, and I'm certain that in every alternate universe, I'm always, always in love with you."

To witness this unfold and actually happening is just.....oh my heart!!!



I think Unlucky Like Us is more plot driven than all the other books and it surely put my heart through the wringer! It had me bawling my eyes out and laughing simultaneously like a madman! I honestly couldn't put this book down and stayed up all hours of the night just to keep reading. I don't know what else to say without giving out spoilers. This is probably my most favorite book in the series so far and the wait for the next book will be unbearable! I’m just hoping that after all that Luna and Donnelly go through that they get the best, most epic ending to their story.

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Review: Misfits Like Us (Like Us, #11)

Misfits Like Us by Krista and Becca Ritchie

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Full disclosure, I have been shipping Luna and Donnelly [Lunnelly] since Lovers Like Us, which was 9 books ago! Their interaction with each other in Lovers Like Us caught my eye and I haven't been able to let go since. When the authors finally announced that Lunnelly was going to get a book, I was the happiest person on earth!



We waited nearly 5 years to get Lunnelly's story and I have to say after reading it, it was definitely worth the wait!



Ever since Some Kind of Perfect, I've wanted Luna to have her happily ever after. I love that Krista Ritchie and Becca Ritchie tie all these stories together. Since I read the Addicted Series before the Like Us series, I feel like I have a better understanding of all the characters (Krista and Becca's books are very character driven!) and I get a sense that I've watched these characters grow over the years, from the parents (the core 6 characters from the Addicted Series) to the children (the characters from the Like Us series) - it's a truly wonderful thing to experience! To get a better understanding of the person that Luna is, I think it's best to start (at least) from Some Kind of Perfect when we're first introduced to Luna. She is weird to the core and unabashedly herself regardless of how people treat her and view her as a second hand embarrassment.

We first met Donnelly in Damaged Like Us, but Luna and Donnelly don't start to orbit around each other until Lovers Like Us. Donnelly's character doesn't give a fart whistle about other people's opinion. He is confident and believes in himself, even (and especially) when no one else does. The differences (and similarities) between Luna and Donnelly's characters make them such a cute and unique pair and they're just so perfect for each other. I am over the moon for this pairing and I'm so excited that they continue their story in two more books! I can't wait to read more of their epic cosmic love.

Also, I love all the "Easter eggs" and the parallels between the Addicted Series and the Like Us series. There are so many of them that I bet even if I re-read both series from beginning to end, I will still miss a lot of them. I've read all 26 books by these authors (10 of them from the Addicted Series and 11 from the Like Us Series) and I am still very much in love with their writing. Their stories just completely captivate me and I'm very very much looking forward to the next books to come!!


------- Initial Reaction: June 26, 2020 -------

Lunnelly trilogy! We're getting a Lunelly trilogy!!!!! I don't even know what to think right now. Cake. Has. Name. I can't function.



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Review: Infamous Like Us (Like Us, #10)

 

Infamous Like Us by Krista and Becca Ritchie
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Wow. I don’t even know what else to say. Just…wow. I’m blown away. That was some intense story and I didn’t think it was possible to love this triad even more. It’s so weird because that ending almost makes me feel like I did after reading Some Kind of Perfect…like it was an end of an era.

It’s almost like the circle is complete now that we have a Hale, Cobalt, and Meadows next gen story. I’m still crying tears of joy after that epilogue and I’m so so incredibly happy that this is not the end! We are getting more books in the series and I cannot frickin wait!!! More Marrow, more Cobaretti, more Highveira, and more Kitsulletti!! And next up, Luna and Donnelly!!!! I can’t contain my excitement!!!!! #Lunnellyismyotherotp!!!

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Review: Fearless Like Us (Like Us, #9)

Fearless Like Us by Krista and Becca Ritchie
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I frickin LOVE this book SO much!! Hands down, one of my most favorite books in the Like Us series. 9 fudging stars!!! Wow. This was one rollercoaster of emotions.



I know I've said this many times before, but I absolutely love Krista and Becca's writing. They create these fictional characters who feel like real people and you empathize with them. They feel like your friends or people you actually know personally. And with the direction our society and our world is headed, I wish more people would pick up their books. These books are so relevant. There's a lesson in them on humanity and how we treat people.

I can't wait for the next book!


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Review: Wild Like Us (Like Us, #8)

Wild Like Us by Krista and Becca Ritchie
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I wanted to put off reading this book because I was afraid I wasn’t going to like it. I love Krista and Becca’s writing, but I seriously feared that this would be the first book of theirs that I wouldn’t like. I don’t know, maybe because some of the negative people rubbed off on me a little and left me feeling very anxious. Maybe it’s because I’ve never read a V triad relationship before and I wasn’t sure what to expect or what I was getting into.

But...if there is one thing that I’ve learned from reading all of Krista and Becca Ritchie’s books, it is to keep an open mind. Through their wonderful stories they’ve taught me not to be judgmental, to listen and learn about things I don’t quite understand, and above all, to love and embrace people for and regardless of what makes them different from me.

So, I kept an open mind while reading this book and I truly, truly enjoyed how the relationship between Sulli, Akara, and Banks developed. I love the way they wrote the story and I can’t imagine how it would’ve worked any differently than the way they wrote it. I’ve only recently learned about polyamorous relationships, and I can’t say that I know everything there is to know about it. I do still wonder a lot about it, but this book has given me a better understanding of how that kind of relationship would work.

Another thing I really liked about this book is that we got a break from all the issues with crazed fans. Since Sulli isn’t in the spotlight as much as Moffy and Jane have been all their life, she’s not followed and hounded by paparazzi as much. It was so nice that paparazzi and overzealous fans weren’t one of the big issues that the main characters had to deal with on a constant basis. Instead, the focus was mostly on the triad and we got to know more about each character.

I also really loved the ending! Fair warning: it does end on a cliffhanger...but it’s one that I welcome! I was hoping that scene at the end would happen soon and I’m glad we didn’t have to wait till the third book for it. I’m very much looking forward to book 9, Fearless Like Us, to find out what happens next!

Thank you, Krista and Becca, for writing a story I never knew I wanted and needed in my life!!!!!!!



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Review: Charming Like Us (Like Us, #7)

Charming Like Us by Krista and Becca Ritchie
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Get ready for a feel-good romance that will make you feel light and joyful inside, and will leave you floating on cloud 9! Oscar and Jack’s chemistry is palpable. I don’t know what it is with this book but I can FEEL all the tension. I can feel the unrequited love that Oscar’s feeling and I can feel Jack’s turmoil. I just want to step in the middle and help them open their eyes to the truth! I’m sitting here cheering them both on thinking, omg just kiss already!!!!!!!!

I think Jack is the perfect match for Oscar because I always thought Oscar was someone who’s a no-BSer. I mean, he can joke around with Farrow and Donnelly and SFO but he always had that air of maturity. I enjoy being inside Oscar’s head and seeing everything and everyone through his eyes; especially his best friends, Farrow and Donnelly. He’s one of my favorite characters in the Like Us series. And Jack doesn’t seem to beat around the bush. Jack’s personality just meshes well with Oscar’s. They’re both very mature and they don’t have unnecessary drama.

I love that most of the focus centered on Jack and Oscar, which is kind of unusual for Krista and Becca’s books. We usually see a lot of the side characters as well, but this time it’s different. And I’m not saying that’s a bad thing, just different from the norm.

Also, I absolutely love Jack’s relationship with Jesse! I enjoyed all of their interactions and it was so nice to finally meet Jack’s family. I think the authors did great in capturing the essence of the Philippine culture, how Filipinos are, how a Filipino mom would be, and the importance of family. It was a joy to read the moments with Jack and his little brother and with his mom.

I also like the glimpses we get of Charlie. We see him in a different light from Oscar’s perspective and I, for one, wasn’t a big fan of Charlie from the beginning. In the previous books, he just always seemed so angry and mean and an a-hole for no apparent reason. But here in Charming, the authors have me hooked on Charlie. I’m intrigued and, not gonna lie, there were a few moments that tore at my heart for Charlie. I cried my eyes out! I’ve gone soft towards Charlie and I may or may not dislike him a little less. I’m so interested in him getting his HEA.

I was grinning from ear to ear for the majority of the book. I don’t even really know how to describe how I feel about Oscar and Jack’s story. This book just feels so different from all the others in the Like Us series. I’m so excited for everything that was revealed (love interests and...just...other possibilities *wink wink*) and I’m looking forward to reading Sulli’s story. Charming Like Us was such a fun book to read!

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Review: Wherever You Are (Bad Reputation Duet, #2)

Wherever You Are by Krista and Becca Ritchie
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

❤️ An ARC was provided by the authors. ❤️

Oh my goodness. This was such an amazing experience to anticipate what’s going to happen next even though I already know what’s gonna happen, only this time I get to see it from Willow and Garrison’s POV.

I loooooove all the BFF Daisy and Willow moments, and also the Calloway sisters and Willow moments! My heart expands tenfold after reading those scenes!!!

I love the moments with Garrison and Lo. I’m over the moon at how happy Garrison is around Moffy and I live for the moments with Garrison, Lo, Ryke, and Connor. Garrison's character growth throughout this book is just phenomenal. I was full on bawling my eyes out and laughing hysterically at some scenes. I’m amazed at how much this book is like all my dreams coming true.

As I said before in my review of Whatever It Takes, it may be because I’m biased and have loved and wanted Willow and Garrison’s story from the start, but I honestly love this duet!! It's a look back at all their moments from the Addicted and Calloway Sisters series from their POV and I could not stop smiling at how precious they are together. Their intimate moments are so intense and tender that I feel like I’m intruding in such precious moments between them. All the scenes that I wanted to see from their POV are here and I couldn’t be happier!

You can read this duet without having read the Addicted Series or Calloway Sisters series beforehand; BUT, I would highly suggest reading the Addicted Series and Calloway Sisters series first if you want the full experience. You would appreciate Willow and Garrison's story a lot more if you have the history of how it all began and knowledge on all the side characters present in the story. There’s just way too much history there and if you don’t have it all, I don't think it would mean as much.

This duet has everything I ever wanted from Willow and Garrison's story. Every moment that I wanted to see in their POV is here and it makes me so happy that I want to keep re-reading it and staying in their world for a bit longer.

Quick note: if you’ve read the web series and loved it, you’ll be happy to know that Parts 3 and 4 made it into Wherever You Are. This one picks up right where Whatever It Takes left off.


------- INITIAL REACTION - July 22, 2019 -------

Two books! Two books of Willow and Garrison's romance!! It doesn't get any better than this.




My Review of Whatever It Takes

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Review: Whatever It Takes (Bad Reputation Duet, #1)

Whatever It Takes by Krista and Becca Ritchie
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

❤️ An ARC was provided by the authors. ❤️

I can’t wrap my head around how awesome this book is and maybe I’m a bit biased because I literally waited years for this story. Willow and Garrison were first introduced in 2014 in Addicted After All (book 3 in the Addicted Series) and I’ve been hooked ever since! (Side note: we actually meet Willow in Addicted for Now, book 2 in the Addicted Series). I needed their story like I need air!!! My initial reaction below still stands – my entire life I’ve been waiting for this moment. I’m the happiest person on earth right now.

Quick note: if you’ve read the web series and loved it, you’ll be happy to know that most of Parts 1 and 2 made it into Whatever It Takes. There were some deviations and changes, but nothing major. I will add that without Parts 3 and 4, we don’t get a lot of insight on Garrison, so you won’t see all of his struggles from his POV. This paints a different picture and really gives him more of the “troubled, misunderstood, bad boy persona.” This book does end on a cliffhanger but thankfully, book 2 releases soon after this one. I can’t wait till book 2 is released so I can get all of my questions answered and to hopefully tie it all together.

Willow and Garrison are so precious. They are an unlikely pair: she’s the good girl - the shy wallflower, who’s never been kissed, and he’s the bad boy with a bad reputation; yet somehow, they work. The “us against the world” thing they’ve got going on is a little heartbreaking, but I love that they respect one another and how they care and look out for each other whenever the world takes a big dump on either one of them.

I relate to Willow so much it’s almost scary. I feel like her thoughts are my thoughts exactly, even down to her actions and reactions to situations. She is honestly the most relatable character for me and I absolutely LOVE her. Get ready for another emotional ride from the Ritchie sisters. This one will twist your heart and have you begging for more. I’m so excited for the release of this book and I’m glad that book 2, Wherever You Are, is releasing only a week after!



------- INITIAL REACTION - July 22, 2019 -------

I can't believe this is actually happening! I'm still wondering if I'll wake up and realize this was all a dream. Willow and Garrison's story started in the Addicted Series. In 2015, the authors were wonderful enough to give us more of their romance by giving us Willow and Garrison's web series. They started writing the web series and added to it when they had time. But then it stopped on Part Four in 2016 and they haven't added to it since. Little did we know that they actually finished not one, but TWO full length novels on Willow and Garrison's story!!!! I'm still in shock. Somebody pinch me.

My Review of Wherever You Are

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Review: Sinful Like Us (Like Us, #5)

Sinful Like Us by Krista and Becca Ritchie
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I love love LOOOOOVE how these authors write and how they have a huge (HUGE!) cast of characters and never fail to deliver such captivating stories. They truly pull you into this alternate universe and make you feel for the characters as if they were real people. Their characters are well developed and I know Krista and Becca Ritchie must have a book of notes for each one because I just don’t understand how they can keep up with all the details for each person!

I can’t even begin to describe how much I truly loved this book. I am filled with so much happiness right now. Overjoyed. Krista and Becca’s writing just keeps getting better and better! Sinful Like Us is now my favorite book in the series.

This book evokes feelings reminiscent of what I felt after reading Addicted After All and Some Kind of Perfect. I love Jane and Thatcher’s story so SO much and I wish they could have more books. I can relate to Jane and her awkwardness, her fears, and her insecurities. I love how her character grew throughout the story and where she was at the end of the book really warmed my heart.

I loved that we got to spend time with the Cobalt family and to see Rose and Connor again was so amazing! I missed their interaction and banter. I loved getting to see Jane with her siblings and I loved finally seeing how Thatcher would fit (or if he fit) into that dynamic.

I loved seeing Thatcher and Banks’ relationship. I loved witnessing the changes in Thatcher and in his relationship with SFO. It was one of the things I was looking forward to in this book and it did not disappoint!

The love between Jane and Thatcher is of LiLo EPIC PROPORTIONS and those of you who know me know that #LiLoisMyotp! [LiLo is from Krista and Becca Ritchie’s Addicted Series, for those of you who were wondering].

Krista and Becca have written such wonderful stories that have touched so many lives and hearts. Their characters are so well written that they don’t feel fictional. Their books are filled with strong friendship bonds, strong familial relationships, strong women, and good men who respect them. Their books have invoked so much emotion and have put me through so much heartache and pain and happiness over and over again. I feel so invested in these characters and I am very much looking forward to the next books in the series.

And I just wanna say, KB are extra as f*ck


------- January 18, 2019 Initial Reaction -------

Tangled Like Us has left me with quite a book hangover and I CANNOT WAIT for this book! That cover is gorgeous with both Jane and Thatcher!! And OMFG that summary KILLS ME!!!!!!



My review of Damaged Like Us
My review of Lovers Like Us
My review of Alphas Like Us
My review of Tangled Like Us

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Review: Alphas Like Us (Like Us, #3)

Alphas Like Us by Krista and Becca Ritchie
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I am a HUGE fan of Krista Ritchie and Becca Ritchie. My sappy, cheesy romantic self lives for the "soul mate love" that these authors write about. I felt that type of love in every single one of their books since Addicted to You, and I think it's the type of love that we all secretly (or openly) crave; to have someone love you that deeply, truly, unconditionally.

I tried and failed to prolong this story, reading it slowly to make it last. I want Moffy and Farrow's story to keep going. The "soul mate love" feeling in this book is so intense, I don't even know how to describe it. I feel every action and word spoken by the MCs from every fiber of my being. Moffy and Farrow's love for each other is so deep that I feel like my heart is on capacity overload! Love, love, love the cute romance!!!

As always, this book has everything I absolutely love about these authors' works. The banter: check. The strong familial bonds: check. The strong friendship bonds: check. Interesting first and secondary characters: check. Makes you want more: check check check.

I don't know how these authors manage to do it, but every single time I want more of the side characters! Their writing is truly magic. They make everyone so interesting that I swear, not one single character is one-dimensional. I'm so excited for more books to come in this series and I can't wait to hear some news about possible books for other characters (just throwing this out there in case KB reads this *wink wink*).

My review of Damaged Like Us
My review of Lovers Like Us


------- Initial Reaction: March 16, 2014 -------

Seriously you guys





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Review: Lovers Like Us (Like Us, #2)

Lovers Like Us by Krista and Becca Ritchie
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I was so engrossed in this book that I didn't realize when I turned the last page that I had reached the end of the story.



I hate it when that happens.

So, I love how this book starts right where we left off in Damaged Like Us. I love how the issues that were left hanging from Damaged Like Us and from the beginning of Lovers Like Us were resolved by the end of the book. I love the depth of each character that Krista Ritchie and Becca Ritchie creates; they seem like "real" people and it's what makes them so relatable and what makes me want more. Krista and Becca are seriously the only authors I know who give us that "more." Each character's traits and personality, the way they speak, the way they act, and every little thing that makes them who they are...I can't help but wonder how in the world these authors keep track and not get confused. Krista and Becca are wonder twins for sure.

Their writing is phenomenal. I'm not only interested in the main characters but the side characters as well. I loved getting more of Jane and Moffy's siblings. And Sulli too! I loved getting to know more about the bodyguards. I loved the friendship and family bonds. I just love so much about this book! I can't wait till the next book in the series is out!!

My review of Damaged Like Us
My review of Alphas Like Us


------- Initial Reaction: Mar 16, 2014 -------

I can't. I mean. OMG.



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Review: Damaged Like Us (Like Us, #1)

Damaged Like Us by Krista and Becca Ritchie
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

So, this is my first MM book and it is seriously one of my favorite romcom reads this year. Just like the authors’ previous books, I immediately loved the dialogue and banter between characters from the very start. I like how the story starts off giving us a bit of a background about Maximoff and Farrow’s history. Kind of laying the foundation, if you will, and setting up the atmosphere between the two of them. I love their chemistry! The UST is so thick you can cut it with a knife!

Having read the Addicted Series beforehand, I feel so much more connected to the characters in this story. I’m deeply invested in them and they affect me a lot more than just any other book because I feel like I witnessed them grow up through the years. I can see how growing up with 3 very strong men and 3 very fierce women (his parents and his aunts and uncles) in his life influenced the person that Maximoff has become, and it’s so wonderful to read about.

There are so many laugh-out-loud moments and some very intense moments. It was such a fun read for me and I thoroughly enjoyed the friendships, bonds between family and the bodyguards, and the super cute romance. It's stories like this that make me love reading so much more because the authors create such realistic characters that they transport me into that universe and I love to get lost in it. I’m re-reading the book again simply because I can’t get enough of this world and my favorite characters. The next book can’t get here soon enough!!!

I'm just gonna leave this right here...



------- INITIAL REACTION: MARCH 16, 2014 -------

OMG OMG OMG OMG OMG OMG OMG OMG OMG!!!!!!!!!





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My Review: Some Kind of Perfect (Calloway Sisters #4.5) by Krista & Becca Ritchie

Some Kind of Perfect by Krista and Becca Ritchie
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I love this epilogue book!! Now, before you go diving into it, please take note that this is no ordinary epilogue. By that, I mean this is one gigantic book that is about 700 pages long (not quite sure of the exact page count yet since the paperback isn’t released). To me, it’s like a huge Addicted Series bonus material, only I get to keep it on my shelf in book form :D. It is 100% character driven with no central conflict. It’s what you would expect in an epilogue only it spans a period of 10 years (between the time that Long Way Down ended to the Long Way Down epilogue), contains 6 POVs, and it serves as: 1) a conclusion to the Addicted Series; 2) all the questions you ever wanted answered about what happened to the core 6 characters are probably contained in this book; 3) you get to witness the next generation of kids being born and growing up; and 4) it’s a great transition to the Like Us series which features the Addicted kids all grown up. Do you have to read Some Kind of Perfect? No. Let me reiterate. YOU DO NOT HAVE TO READ THIS BOOK. I would say that this book is really meant for all the hard-core, devoted fans of the Addicted Series who just can’t seem to get enough of their beloved characters. As Krista and Becca Ritchie clearly pointed out before releasing this book, you can read Long Way Down and the epilogue at the end of that book. Long Way Down ’s epilogue was put in place for anyone who doesn’t want to read Some Kind of Perfect and still have a sense of closure. “Some Kind of Perfect just simply gives you more.”

If you’re one of the hard-core, devoted fans of the series, you don’t want to miss out on this perfect epilogue! I think that you will absolutely love this book because you get to read LiLo’s, Coballoway’s, and Raisy’s POV one last time and see them as parents. Witness each of them still working through their challenges, and get introduced to different challenges as parents. It was truly marvelous to witness how much they’ve grown and how far they’ve come, and how much they’ve overcome.

The past can’t drag me under.
I relive the better parts that are intertwined with bad. Because I look back and think, Christ, we were so goddamn fragile.
Look how far we’ve come.
Look at us now.

You will also get to read about Willow and Garrison. Their scenes are so much fun to read and I can’t wait for the next chapters of Whatever It Takes to be released! There are so many heartwarming moments and I laughed in every single chapter for about the first 35% of the book. After that, it was a mix of emotions. There will be lots of tears shed. LOTS. Crocodile tears. Especially if you hate goodbyes. You’ll witness some of the trials and tribulations that the core 6 and their children will face and it makes me thrilled and anxious to read the Like Us series.

Truly magnificent. THANK YOU KRISTA & BECCA for gifting us fans this one final Addicted book to satisfy our cravings!!

-------------------
Sharing Lanie's amazing Fan Made Book Trailer on Some Kind of Perfect

My Reviews On:
Addicted to You (Fan Made Book Trailer)
Ricochet
Addicted for Now
Kiss the Sky (Fan Made Princesses of Philly Commercial)
Hothouse Flower (Fan Made Book Trailer)
Thrive
Addicted After All
Fuel the Fire
Long Way Down

Check out the Addicted Series Trailer
My own Fan Made Videos

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My Review: Long Way Down (Calloway Sisters #4) by Krista & Becca Ritchie

Long Way Down by Krista and Becca Ritchie
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Reading this book took a lot longer than I expected. And it has nothing to do with the quality because good heavens, Krista & Becca Ritchie sure know how to pull on my heartstrings! It has more to do with the fact that it was just so heart-wrenching that I had to take a breather after almost every single chapter! I just could not believe how much Ryke and Daisy were suffering and it seemed like one bad thing after another just kept piling up on top of them. For every good day or good moment, they were given a moment twice as bad and my heart just ached so much for the both of them. It sucks for me because I'm going through a very tough and emotional time in my personal life as I'm reading this book, so I was literally crying after every other chapter. I almost couldn't bear seeing Ryke or Daisy go through any more crap and the whole time I kept wondering if it would ever end! I wanted so badly to just reach out and hold them both and tell them that everything will be alright! I kept hoping against all odds that they would finally get their happily ever after.

I've loved Daisy and Ryke from the beginning but this book made me love Daisy even more. Her strength, perseverance, and selfless attitude is truly amazing even in the face of adversity!! She gives hope even when it feels like all hope is lost and I think Daisy's mom, Samantha, truly nailed it in her "public apology" (one of my favorite parts and absolute highlights in this book) about why Daisy and Ryke just fit together. They are made for each other. I don't believe anyone else can understand Ryke more than Daisy and vice versa.

And I just love, love, LOVE how Daisy keeps on going! After finding out how traumatized she was in Hothouse Flower and how it affected her everyday life, I can't help but feel angry that she never seems to catch a break. She's been treated like an object instead of a person since she was 14 years old, the people she considered her best friends betrayed her, the actions of complete strangers towards her completely screwed up her sense of security, and her whole life she's always felt left out because of the age gap between her and her older sisters. She was completely and utterly alone until she met Ryke! Then we're hit with more bad news towards the end of Fuel the Fire, and midway through Long Way Down I seriously wanted to just scream out loud!!! For Daisy. For Ryke. For everything that just keeps going wrong, I wanted to make right. Without spoiling anything for anyone who hasn't read the story, I can say that I am completely satisfied with how the book ended. My heart still hurts, but I'm left happy and excited, and definitely looking forward to the epilogue book, Some Kind of Perfect, and the Like Us series. And holy crap the epilogue in Long Way Down!

With Long Way Down being the last (er, next to the last) book in the Addicted series, it feels like it's marking the end of an era. I've been following this series ever since before Addicted for Now was released and the core six characters feel like my lifelong friends. Now, we also have Willow and Garrison added to the mix and I can't wait to read more about them in Krista & Becca's web series, Whatever It Takes!

I love that Krista & Becca tackled the issue of addiction with Lily and Lo's story, then gender equality and media bias (among lots of other issues) with Rose and Connor, and now depression and PTSD with Ryke and Daisy. Krista & Becca Ritchie will forever be my heroes for being true to themselves, being down to earth and such a pleasure to talk to, and for always, always writing what's in their heart. They will remain my #1 favorites and I will read anything and everything they write!


======= INITIAL REACTION: APRIL 30, 2014 =======

Oh god oh god oh god!!!





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My Reviews On:
Addicted to You (Fan Made Book Trailer)
Ricochet
Addicted for Now
Kiss the Sky (Fan Made Princesses of Philly Commercial)
Hothouse Flower (Fan Made Book Trailer)
Thrive
Addicted After All
Fuel the Fire

Check out the Addicted Series Trailer
My own Fan Made Videos

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My Review: Fuel the Fire (Calloway Sisters #3) by Krista & Becca Ritchie

Fuel the Fire by Krista and Becca Ritchie
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I’d say that this is the best book out of the Addicted/Calloway Sisters series, but I think I’ve said that after each one I’ve read. Everything in this book just hit me on so many levels that it means so much to me. I can’t even explain it without giving the story away. But this…

To be real.
To be herself, to love every part of her own soul, no matter if it’s what someone else desires or not.
- Connor Cobalt

This quote just about sums it up nicely for me. This is one of the big reasons why I love this book. The underlying message to be yourself in a world where anything and everyone is constantly labeled is one of the strong points in this book for me.

Rose…she’s something fierce. There is no other character like her in anything I’ve read. Her intelligence and confidence…she will always be an inspiration.

Then Connor, oh my gosh, Connor. He’s come a long way from being an asexual sponge. I think Connor and Ryke are the icing on the cake in this story. Just when I thought I couldn’t possibly love them more, Krista & Becca give me a thousand more reasons to. I can’t find a good way to write this review without spoiling the plot. I don’t know how to articulate my feelings for this book. There are so many rare moments that you just have to experience for yourself.

The bond between the 6 main characters is even stronger. The love between them is indestructible. I want to be a part of their family. I want their story to continue and I can’t wait to read more of what lies ahead for Ryke and Daisy in the final book *sobs* of the series, Long Way Down.




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My Reviews On:
Addicted to You (Fan Made Book Trailer)
Ricochet
Addicted for Now
Kiss the Sky (Fan Made Princesses of Philly Commercial)
Hothouse Flower
Thrive
Addicted After All

Check out the Addicted Series Trailer
My own Fan Made Videos

View all my reviews

 

Review: Amour Amour by Krista & Becca Ritchie

Hi Fizzle Force! Here is my review of Amour Amour. If you haven't read it yet, don't worry, I try to keep my reviews spoiler free. You'll be delighted to hear that there are lots of references to the Addicted world within the book! In case it's not obvious enough in my review, I absolutely LOVE this book!  I love that Krista & Becca's stories are so realistic that it feels like they could truly happen in real life. The characters they create are so endearing and I feel as if they could be my friends. Thoralai is my new otp!


Amour Amour by Krista and Becca Ritchie
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

After finishing the Addicted Series and loving it, I was extremely excited to get my hands on this new standalone novel by Krista & Becca Ritchie. These authors are some of my absolute favorites from whom I'd immediately buy every book they put out.

I find that one of the things I love about these authors' books is the one resounding theme with all the male leads - they all let their women be. They're not manipulative or controlling (except for maybe Connor Cobalt from Kiss the Sky, but he's a green rooster (one of a kind) so he's on a league of his own anyway) and they treat their women with utmost respect.

Amour Amour has that and everything I love! Swoon-worthy alpha male, no insufferable main character, no instalove, wonderful supporting cast, awesome lasting friendships, humor, and a happy ending. Plus, there's no cheating and no love triangles.

The book instantly lures you in from the prologue and I was hooked after the first two chapters. The UST between Thora and Nikolai is so steamy and so thick you could cut it with a knife! The chemistry and pull between them is...WOW! It's intense from the very first time they meet. Their kisses...OMG O.O

And Nikolai (Nik)! Oh Nik. He's such a mystery and a great positive force in Thora's life. I need a Nik in my life. I think we all need a Nik in our lives! I just love the advice he gives and the things he says to Thora.

"Don't count your losses before you see the scoreboard. It'll plague you with insecurities that aren't worth your energy or emotions."

Everything about him and the way he is with Thora is just so mesmerizing. I love how he cares for his family, for his siblings. He drives people to do their best and it's so inspiring. This whole story is inspiring! Amour Amour inspires you to go after your dreams. To take the risk because you never know what you're capable of, or what could happen if you don't give yourself a chance to find out. Yes, there could be roadblocks to your success; to reaching your goal, but it's not the end. You have to work hard to get what you want. Usually, the ones that aren't easy to get; the ones that take a lot more effort to reach are the ones worth so much more in the end. You get a greater sense of accomplishment and you cherish it that much more because you know that you did it all.

"The things greater than us, Thora, they're not impossible. It's just fear talking, telling you that you can't when you can."

Thora is so relatable. Everything she goes through and all her trials and tribulations are a lot of the same stuff I go through or have gone through. Someone once told me, "if you think you can or you think you can't, you're right!" It's all in our mind and when we feel like we can't do something, we don't try as hard to get it and we give up too easily. I love how Thora is her own cheerleader. She motivates herself to do better and to be better. I want to be like her.

And then there are the supporting characters like John and Timo that I can't get enough of. Camila and Katya who are just adorable and so likeable! I wish there were more about them in the book.

This book is just...I don't even have a good enough word to describe it. I know for a fact that I'm reading it again soon! It makes me want to go to Vegas and see a circus (such as Cirque du Soleil), both of which I've never done! And of course, I love that this book is in the same universe as the Addicted Series. All the mentions of the characters from the Addicted series (Ryke, Daisy, Connor, Rose, Lily, and Loren), the drinks (Fizz Life, Diet Fizz, Lightning Bolt!), and the reality TV show, Princesses of Philly (PoPhilly) made me all giddy with excitement! I can't wait to read this one again!

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