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End of the Line #2
Just a Boyfriend
The rules of love and second chances are due for a major-league shake-up in a warm, witty, and unpredictable romance by the bestselling author of The Friend Zone.
Ian “Bash” Sebastian and Ember Carlson were high school sweethearts…until their single parents got married. With one thorny twist of fate, a secret young crush went from on fire to off-limits. What could a new stepbrother do but bail? Now, after almost four years, Bash has returned to Seattle, and he’s back in Ember’s orbit at End of the Line. EOL is the go-to college for second-chance scholarships. But what about love?
Sure, the old hurts are there. So is the attraction—and it’s more magnetic than ever. Still, they’re adults now, levelheaded and just fine with the friend thing. If only to make family dinners less awkward. But when they agree to start dating other people, moving on threatens to bring them closer together than ever.
Is it time to admit their past to their parents? Even trickier, their hope for the future? Because Ember and Bash deserve a love story of their own. With all their defenses down, can they make it a happy ever after?
283 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 7, 2020
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January 15, 2020
4 stars
Just a Boyfriendis the second book in Sariah Wilson's NA series 'End of the Line'. I really enjoyed the first book in this series, so I was excited to get to this one. I didn't love it quite as much as the first, but it was still really enjoyable read.
Ember and Bash fell in love in high school and were getting ready to go to prom together. That is, until their parents had a whirl wind romance and married only months after meeting. Neither parent knew Bash and Ember were dating, and Bash thought it would be easier to leave.
Now, after years apart, they're at the same college. Ember and Bash are totally off limits, but they have so much chemistry and truly care for one another. It's quite the conundrum. They struggle with their feelings, that won't go away even though both of them know being together would be complicated.
This is not your typical step brother romance. It's a sweet, easy read that I would call a clean romance, much like the first. I liked Bash and Ember both and I'm hoping there are more books in this series to come.
Just a Boyfriendis the second book in Sariah Wilson's NA series 'End of the Line'. I really enjoyed the first book in this series, so I was excited to get to this one. I didn't love it quite as much as the first, but it was still really enjoyable read.
Ember and Bash fell in love in high school and were getting ready to go to prom together. That is, until their parents had a whirl wind romance and married only months after meeting. Neither parent knew Bash and Ember were dating, and Bash thought it would be easier to leave.
Now, after years apart, they're at the same college. Ember and Bash are totally off limits, but they have so much chemistry and truly care for one another. It's quite the conundrum. They struggle with their feelings, that won't go away even though both of them know being together would be complicated.
This is not your typical step brother romance. It's a sweet, easy read that I would call a clean romance, much like the first. I liked Bash and Ember both and I'm hoping there are more books in this series to come.
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December 12, 2019
You’re like an addiction to me.
Only it’s not just physical, it’s in my soul.
On my heart.
I want you constantly.
I want you in my bed, in my life, all the time.
It feels like there’s never a point in time where I don’t think about you.
Want to kiss you. Hold you.
Wake up next to you.
I want to tell you every stupid thing that happens in my day.
When something makes me laugh, the first thing I think is “I can’t wait to tell Ember.”
That was actually the cutest moment ever.
Story 🌟🌟🌟
This was a really dramatic love story with a lot of misunderstandings, crazy things happening and teenage angst.
It was like boy loves girl and girl loves boy but both think that the other doesn’t want them so they act totally crazy.
I enjoyed the story in the beginning but the more unrealistic things happened the more it became boring. I thought it would get better but in the end it was too cute and too perfect for my own liking.
Character 🌟🌟🌟
Ember was a strong, loyal girl with talents in Sports and the biggest love for her family.
Bash was literally the same person but as a male.
I liked them, but in the end I wasn’t 100% into the story and lost interest into the future of the characters, which was super sad, because the story had a nice premise.
But in the end the characters seemed too perfect, their action too weird and unrealistic.
Relationships 🌟🌟🌟
Like I said I liked the story in the beginning. It was so cute and there was a lot of teenage angst in it. But then there were so many unrealistic things happening, like jumping out of a plane, joining a dancing competition, being trapped in a snow storm in a perfect cabin. Like after a while it felt too much.
Writing style 🌟🌟🌟
The writing was entertaining and fast paced and was written in two POVs- Bash and Embers. We get to see all the emotions, all things happening in two points of views which I really liked.
All in all it was a good book, but nothing special.
July 29, 2023
I really couldn’t get past the step sibling thing.
No language but a lot of sexual tension and references to them burning for each other.
One makeout scene went too far for my comfort zone.
There was a mention of a character going to Church which I really liked.
I wasn’t won over to this trope. Never reading it again.
Do not recommend.
*but the first book is amazing!!!!
No language but a lot of sexual tension and references to them burning for each other.
One makeout scene went too far for my comfort zone.
There was a mention of a character going to Church which I really liked.
I wasn’t won over to this trope. Never reading it again.
Do not recommend.
*but the first book is amazing!!!!
January 9, 2020
⭐️ [3/5 Stars] ⭐️
I really really wanted to like this more than the first one because the first one bored me half to death, but unfortunately this was basically the same. There’s nothing wrong with it, like the plot is fine, the characters were fine. Everything was fine. It was just so boring for me. Nothing had me hooked, everything felt kinda flat and I didn’t care much about it. Decent but not incredible or memorable, ya know?
I really really wanted to like this more than the first one because the first one bored me half to death, but unfortunately this was basically the same. There’s nothing wrong with it, like the plot is fine, the characters were fine. Everything was fine. It was just so boring for me. Nothing had me hooked, everything felt kinda flat and I didn’t care much about it. Decent but not incredible or memorable, ya know?
November 15, 2019
I jumped at the chance to read this when I saw it up on Netgalley. Ms. Wilson is a favorite author of mine, the kind of author where I drop everything when she has a new book out! Once again, I was sucked into her world and couldn't put it down. Bash and Ember have a unique relationship and unique obstacles keeping them apart.
Since this doesn't release for a couple more months I'll keep my review short for now, but you'll want to mark your calendars for January 7, 2020!
Content: Pretty clean, mild innuendo and some steamy kissing scenes. No language (that I remember) and no violence. Some talk of drug addiction.
Rating: PG13-Yellow
Since this doesn't release for a couple more months I'll keep my review short for now, but you'll want to mark your calendars for January 7, 2020!
Content: Pretty clean, mild innuendo and some steamy kissing scenes. No language (that I remember) and no violence. Some talk of drug addiction.
Rating: PG13-Yellow
November 18, 2019
It’s always a good day when a new Sariah Wilson book comes out. I absolutely love her writing style, her intense (yet still clean) romances, the depth she puts into her characterization, and the fun comedic relief that many of her characters contribute to the story (so many times I caught myself literally laughing out loud). This book was no different and kept me reading way late into the night.
I loved Ember and Bash as protagonists. They both had some really great qualities in them- loyalty, protectiveness, lovers of food, outgoing, to name a few- that made them both likable and relatable. Their story was unique and had so much romantic tension throughout it. I loved that both Ember and Bash had things about themselves to work on- neither of them were perfect. There were lots of supporting characters and situations that also added depth to the story.
Each chapter began with either Ember or Bash’s perspective, written in first person, which I loved. It helped you to really get inside each of their heads and understand them as characters and what they were dealing with. There was a really good balance to their voices too, not too much of one or the other’s perspective.
This book is second in the “End Of the Line” (EOL) series, and although I definitely recommend reading them in order you don’t have to. I think you enjoy this book a lot more after reading the first. I loved seeing previous characters from the first book in this one, and some side characters as well. I hope there are more to come!
** I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I loved Ember and Bash as protagonists. They both had some really great qualities in them- loyalty, protectiveness, lovers of food, outgoing, to name a few- that made them both likable and relatable. Their story was unique and had so much romantic tension throughout it. I loved that both Ember and Bash had things about themselves to work on- neither of them were perfect. There were lots of supporting characters and situations that also added depth to the story.
Each chapter began with either Ember or Bash’s perspective, written in first person, which I loved. It helped you to really get inside each of their heads and understand them as characters and what they were dealing with. There was a really good balance to their voices too, not too much of one or the other’s perspective.
This book is second in the “End Of the Line” (EOL) series, and although I definitely recommend reading them in order you don’t have to. I think you enjoy this book a lot more after reading the first. I loved seeing previous characters from the first book in this one, and some side characters as well. I hope there are more to come!
** I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
November 20, 2019
It’s always a good day when a new Sariah Wilson book comes out. I absolutely love her writing style, her intense (yet still clean) romances, the depth she puts into her characterization, and the fun comedic relief that many of her characters contribute to the story (so many times I caught myself literally laughing out loud). This book was no different and kept me reading way late into the night.
I loved Ember and Bash as protagonists. They both had some really great qualities in them- loyalty, protectiveness, lovers of food, outgoing, to name a few- that made them both likable and relatable. Their story was unique and had so much romantic tension throughout it. I loved that both Ember and Bash had things about themselves to work on- neither of them were perfect. There were lots of supporting characters and situations that also added depth to the story.
Each chapter began with either Ember or Bash’s perspective, written in first person, which I loved. It helped you to really get inside each of their heads and understand them as characters and what they were dealing with. There was a really good balance to their voices too, not too much of one or the other’s perspective.
This book is second in the “End Of the Line” (EOL) series, and although I definitely recommend reading them in order you don’t have to. I think you enjoy this book a lot more after reading the first. I loved seeing previous characters from the first book in this one, and some side characters as well. I hope there are more to come!
I loved Ember and Bash as protagonists. They both had some really great qualities in them- loyalty, protectiveness, lovers of food, outgoing, to name a few- that made them both likable and relatable. Their story was unique and had so much romantic tension throughout it. I loved that both Ember and Bash had things about themselves to work on- neither of them were perfect. There were lots of supporting characters and situations that also added depth to the story.
Each chapter began with either Ember or Bash’s perspective, written in first person, which I loved. It helped you to really get inside each of their heads and understand them as characters and what they were dealing with. There was a really good balance to their voices too, not too much of one or the other’s perspective.
This book is second in the “End Of the Line” (EOL) series, and although I definitely recommend reading them in order you don’t have to. I think you enjoy this book a lot more after reading the first. I loved seeing previous characters from the first book in this one, and some side characters as well. I hope there are more to come!
January 7, 2020
It's always a happy day with a happy dance when I get to read a new Sariah Wilson book! And that's what this book made me- happy, happy, happy. It was flirty and fun but not without it's more serious issues. The characters do struggle a bit with outside issues and they also struggle between themselves but it never became greater or more oppressive than the love and attractions swirling around them from the very beginning. Have I ever mentioned how much I love swirling love and attractions? Yum. Sariah Wilson does this sort of thing very well.
I first met Bash in the previous book in this series. I knew he was going to be a fun character to delve into. Ember and Bash have a very interesting relationship and history. It makes for some equally awkward and heart warming situations. I really enjoyed reading this one- it was just what I needed. I smiled and I swooned. See? Happy.
This is the second book in this series but can stand alone. You might be happier if you read the first book (The Friend Zone) though. The characters from that book do appear in this book.
Content: kissing, making out. Some light innuendo.
- I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
I first met Bash in the previous book in this series. I knew he was going to be a fun character to delve into. Ember and Bash have a very interesting relationship and history. It makes for some equally awkward and heart warming situations. I really enjoyed reading this one- it was just what I needed. I smiled and I swooned. See? Happy.
This is the second book in this series but can stand alone. You might be happier if you read the first book (The Friend Zone) though. The characters from that book do appear in this book.
Content: kissing, making out. Some light innuendo.
- I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
December 12, 2019
This one was so good!
What an impossible situation for Bash and Ember, to be dating already and then their parents (her mom, his dad) get married to each other. The family dynamics change and expectations change as well.
Thinking he's doing the best for everyone involved, Bash leaves.
It's now been 5 (or 6) years and Bash and Ember as back in each other's lives. They try to go on with just a friendship, but they soon find out they can't.
I didn't think it was fair of Bash's father to ask what he did, but he didn't have all the information as well.
I liked the secondary characters who made up a well-rounded cast and made the story have more depth.
I'm excited for the next story about Ford and Keilani.
I received a copy from the publisher through NetGalley and this is my honest opinion.
What an impossible situation for Bash and Ember, to be dating already and then their parents (her mom, his dad) get married to each other. The family dynamics change and expectations change as well.
Thinking he's doing the best for everyone involved, Bash leaves.
It's now been 5 (or 6) years and Bash and Ember as back in each other's lives. They try to go on with just a friendship, but they soon find out they can't.
I didn't think it was fair of Bash's father to ask what he did, but he didn't have all the information as well.
I liked the secondary characters who made up a well-rounded cast and made the story have more depth.
I'm excited for the next story about Ford and Keilani.
I received a copy from the publisher through NetGalley and this is my honest opinion.
October 4, 2020
Nice clean teen new adult romance
They were dating in high school than snap fingers they are step siblings ( -2 stars a trope I loath )
Nice pretty banter nice kisses scenes
But something was missing
The first book was another thing
3 stretched stars
They were dating in high school than snap fingers they are step siblings ( -2 stars a trope I loath )
Nice pretty banter nice kisses scenes
But something was missing
The first book was another thing
3 stretched stars
January 5, 2020
4.5 stars rounded up.
When I saw this latest book by Sariah Wilson was available on NetGalley I immediately requested to read it, as I loved the previous book in this series. If you read The Friend Zone you may remember Logan's roommate Bash. Well this is his story.
Bash and Ember have so much chemistry, even when they're trying to avoid to being around each other people think they're a couple. One way Bash and Ember try to deal with not dating each other is to find dates for each other, then go a double date together. I don't know why they thought that was a good idea, but the experiment was a giant crash and burn with their respective dates hitting it off and becoming a couple, which lead to a hilarious idea from Bash "Maybe we can hire ourselves out as reverse matchmakers. Can't find Love? Come on a double date with us and find the man of your dreams? Hint, it won't be me."
The hurts and doubts caused when Bash left home to live with his grandparents are still there and need to be dealt with. It's one of several discussions Ember and Bash would probably rather not have, but can't avoid if they want to be together. Bash didn't hurt Ember on purpose, he was only 16 or 17 at the time and thought he was doing the right thing. I had a feeling Bash and Ember's parents and siblings would find out about their relationship before they had a chance to tell them. In a weird way it was a good thing because it forced Ember to talk with her mother.
Speaking of Ember and her mother--Ember was definitely a mom pleaser, but there's no way I would've gone skydiving just because it was on my mom's bucket-list. The talk Ember and her mother had after her family discovered she and Bash were dating was much needed, and Ember and her mom's relationship will be more balanced in the future.
I loved Ember and Bash. They were so alike--both played sports and loved food, and had a great sense of humor. I liked that we got to see Logan and Jess in this book and they had great advice for Bash and Ember. I love the humor the author puts in her books and I had several laugh a loud moments while reading this one.
Thanks to Montlake Romance and NetGalley for allowing me to read and review this book. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own.
When I saw this latest book by Sariah Wilson was available on NetGalley I immediately requested to read it, as I loved the previous book in this series. If you read The Friend Zone you may remember Logan's roommate Bash. Well this is his story.
Bash and Ember have so much chemistry, even when they're trying to avoid to being around each other people think they're a couple. One way Bash and Ember try to deal with not dating each other is to find dates for each other, then go a double date together. I don't know why they thought that was a good idea, but the experiment was a giant crash and burn with their respective dates hitting it off and becoming a couple, which lead to a hilarious idea from Bash "Maybe we can hire ourselves out as reverse matchmakers. Can't find Love? Come on a double date with us and find the man of your dreams? Hint, it won't be me."
The hurts and doubts caused when Bash left home to live with his grandparents are still there and need to be dealt with. It's one of several discussions Ember and Bash would probably rather not have, but can't avoid if they want to be together. Bash didn't hurt Ember on purpose, he was only 16 or 17 at the time and thought he was doing the right thing. I had a feeling Bash and Ember's parents and siblings would find out about their relationship before they had a chance to tell them. In a weird way it was a good thing because it forced Ember to talk with her mother.
Speaking of Ember and her mother--Ember was definitely a mom pleaser, but there's no way I would've gone skydiving just because it was on my mom's bucket-list. The talk Ember and her mother had after her family discovered she and Bash were dating was much needed, and Ember and her mom's relationship will be more balanced in the future.
I loved Ember and Bash. They were so alike--both played sports and loved food, and had a great sense of humor. I liked that we got to see Logan and Jess in this book and they had great advice for Bash and Ember. I love the humor the author puts in her books and I had several laugh a loud moments while reading this one.
Thanks to Montlake Romance and NetGalley for allowing me to read and review this book. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own.
December 6, 2019
Well this one was interesting. I have loved her new series and this one was fun to read but not a favorite of mine in this new group of books. The Struck series were all like eating chocolate cake for me and the last one of this series was great. We get a peek at how that couple is doing in this book because Bash and he are roommates. Bash and Ember have some serious chemistry. From the first pages they emitted heat from my kindle. I was wondering where the love was but it does show up and I was relived. This ended up being a deeper book then I thought it would be, it just took a while to get there. This was a pretty immature book for me. Lots of sarcasm, pettiness, not talking about the giant, huge elephant that is on fire in the room. This also had more making out, more talk of making out, more kissing scenes and more immature talk then any of her other books I have read. They are pretty open about the fact that they want to have sex with each other but unlike the other books there reason is trying to take time and move slow. So it was a much more in the world kind of book from a author who keeps it chaste and has a pattern of writing books with awesome chemistry. Just so you know that going in. I enjoyed it and found myself fanning myself in a couple places, but it was all kept pg13:} Actually they show a lot more in pg13 movies now then what was described in this book. A fun one but I like my characters a little more on the mature side so that is just my preference and not a bash on the book or the writing.
June 3, 2021
What an angst-fest of emotion! Bash and Ember have quite the history- sweet first love mixed with heartbreak and zero closure. I was worried in the beginning of the book as I read that dating others would be the main plot and they would just avoid the feelings, but thankfully the author dives into their messy relationship and the reader gets to hang on for the ride as they work through their issues. They have awesome chemistry and the flashbacks helped establish their foundation of friendship and romance as they explore that territory again. Themes of trust, healing, forgiveness, family loyalty, and personal autonomy made this book deeper than I expected and increased my reading enjoyment!
Disclosure statement: A complimentary copy of this book was provided from a tour group, publisher, publicist, or author, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, OR borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR purchased. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are unbiased and my own.
Disclosure statement: A complimentary copy of this book was provided from a tour group, publisher, publicist, or author, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, OR borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR purchased. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are unbiased and my own.
October 5, 2020
Nice clean teen new adult romance
They were dating in high school than snap fingers they are step siblings ( -2 stars a trope I loath )
Nice pretty banter nice kisses scenes
But something was missing
The first book was another thing
3 stretched stars
They were dating in high school than snap fingers they are step siblings ( -2 stars a trope I loath )
Nice pretty banter nice kisses scenes
But something was missing
The first book was another thing
3 stretched stars
January 7, 2020
DNF at 50%.
Bash and Ember were passionately in love, until their single parents also fell in love and got married. Now four years later they have done everything in their power to stay far far away from each other until circumstances conspire to bring Bash back to Seattle and EOL college with Ember.
There's angst up the wazoo, step-sibling love, mother with cancer, other mother with drug addiction issues, Bash getting kicked off the football squad for recreational drug use, depression, and more.
And yet ... it just didn't grab hold of me, I didn't feel anything for Bash or Ember (and stupid names!), their love felt vaguely icky and at half-way through the book I didn't care to continue.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
Bash and Ember were passionately in love, until their single parents also fell in love and got married. Now four years later they have done everything in their power to stay far far away from each other until circumstances conspire to bring Bash back to Seattle and EOL college with Ember.
There's angst up the wazoo, step-sibling love, mother with cancer, other mother with drug addiction issues, Bash getting kicked off the football squad for recreational drug use, depression, and more.
And yet ... it just didn't grab hold of me, I didn't feel anything for Bash or Ember (and stupid names!), their love felt vaguely icky and at half-way through the book I didn't care to continue.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
December 30, 2019
I always enjoy reading Sariah Wilson. Its a nice departure to have a good, clean romance. Bash and Ember wound up in quite a predicament. I kind of got why they did not disclose their past, but at the same time, it would have alleviated some drama. Also, I felt like Bash was missing that spark of humor he had in Logan and Jesse's book. He was my favorite part and this felt like a different character. All in all thought, a nice read.
January 16, 2020
Deliciously Swoony!
It truly takes talent to weave an unforgettable swoony romance filled with humor and mix it with an impossible family situation, that could be icky, but definitely isn't in this case, and this author has it.
Bash and Ember have some very tricky hurdles to tackle, especially as they each realize that the sizzle and fire is still alive and well after several years apart, which makes it impossible to be friends, let alone stay apart any longer. I loved watching the characters struggle through their growing attraction, while attempted to appease their families. A lot of growth occurs, mainly as both Bash and Ember recognize that they're both adults and can jump after their respective hopes and dreams.
There were so many things that I loved about this book--from skydiving to math lessons to rekindling a fading ember--and getting caught! Sariah Wilson's books are amazing and entertaining, and I can always count on her to supply an amusing story, with lots of butterfly-inducing romance, that manages to stay on the clean side of the line. I can't wait for more of this deliciously swoony series!
Content: mild+ romance (steamy clean, some innuendo)
*I received a complimentary copy from Montake Publishing, through Netgalley. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.*
It truly takes talent to weave an unforgettable swoony romance filled with humor and mix it with an impossible family situation, that could be icky, but definitely isn't in this case, and this author has it.
Bash and Ember have some very tricky hurdles to tackle, especially as they each realize that the sizzle and fire is still alive and well after several years apart, which makes it impossible to be friends, let alone stay apart any longer. I loved watching the characters struggle through their growing attraction, while attempted to appease their families. A lot of growth occurs, mainly as both Bash and Ember recognize that they're both adults and can jump after their respective hopes and dreams.
There were so many things that I loved about this book--from skydiving to math lessons to rekindling a fading ember--and getting caught! Sariah Wilson's books are amazing and entertaining, and I can always count on her to supply an amusing story, with lots of butterfly-inducing romance, that manages to stay on the clean side of the line. I can't wait for more of this deliciously swoony series!
Content: mild+ romance (steamy clean, some innuendo)
*I received a complimentary copy from Montake Publishing, through Netgalley. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.*
January 6, 2020
Just a Boyfriend is part second chance romance, part step sibling love, and a dash of college athlete lust! I loved book 1 in the series, The Friend Zone, so I was super excited for Bash's story.
Bash and Ember had a sweet high school romance that was spoiled by her mother falling in love with Bash's father and running off to elope. Their shot at romance dies and Bash moves to PA to get away from the torture of having to live in the same house with the girl he loves. Fast forward a few years and now Bash is back and enrolling at Ember's college. They can't avoid each other any longer but they are determined to hide their feelings and just be friends.
Bash is a great guy. He is not the typical whorish jock and he cares a great deal about being the best football player he can be. Ember's teenage heart was broken when Bash literally RAN from her and she tries to put up a brave face and pretend she is over it. These two have tremendous sexual tension. Everyone around them feels it, but they just won't talk to each other and clear everything up. Both of them feel (and I get why) that the circumstances haven't changed regarding why they can't be together. I just wanted to force them both to open up though because it was making me crazy!
Just a Boyfriend was another delightful college romance from Sariah Wilson. I love the characters she creates! If you like the building of sexual tension, the slightly taboo vibe, and college kids being college kids, then Just a Boyfriend is marvelous!
POV: dual 1st
Tears: no
Trope: second chance, step siblings
Triggers: none
Series/Standalone: stand alone
Cliffhanger:
HEA:
All Played Out by Cora Carmack, The Friend Zone by Kristen Callihan, Jockblocked by Jen Frederick...then you will probably like Just a Boyfriend!
Just a Boyfriend
March 25, 2024
I didn't enjoy this as much as the first book, but I wasn't expecting such an emotionally heavy read.
Had I looked into the book, instead of just jumping in, I might have been better prepared for the emotional onslaught.
It's not a bad book, but I wasn't in the right head space for so much history between two characters.
Still recommend it, but be prepared going in that it is not as light and funny as the first book.
Had I looked into the book, instead of just jumping in, I might have been better prepared for the emotional onslaught.
It's not a bad book, but I wasn't in the right head space for so much history between two characters.
Still recommend it, but be prepared going in that it is not as light and funny as the first book.
January 10, 2020
2.5
Kind of disappointed in this one, I liked the actual story but cannot stand that the author went the “safe” route instead of giving us information about her characters. The background in a “second chance” romance is really important to show how sincere the characters are about each other. The characters he hawed so much about whether they had been with anyone else during the break. It kind of became and obsession for me and frustrated from the plot. The heroine was obviously a virgin in High school, she specified that he was the first guy she did anything with. But in college all we get is that she had “dated” during the split. When she and the hero get together she is very determined to take it slow, so the implication is that she would have been that way before? He makes random comments about girls etc, but then makes other references like it has been forever since he asked a girl out. When they get together and she calls him her “boyfriend” he says “I’ve been your boyfriend since the first time I talked to you” I may have the wording a little off but that’s basically what he is saying. So I try to make that jump and wonder “ok so that would mean he hadn’t been with anyone else, right?”. With their huge love story and his reason for leaving, you would think something would be mentioned when they start to get intimate? But no not even a hint like “it’s been so long”. they are bothering still so young and it’s only been 3 years. It seems weird that they would jump into bed with someone else. Anyway the long story short is that I am disappointed in the author. My impression is that being a “clean” romance she didn’t want seem to squeaky clean and specific that they are celibate or possibly virgins. That sucks for the rest of us that enjoy reading her books because the characters aren’t the type to slut it up while implying the are madly in love. You can’t please everyone, stick up for your characters. Don’t write a story and leave out important backstory/information to try to please people that probably won’t like your book anyway. I am an avid reader. I will read almost anything and can respect a book for what it is inside of the genre. But when I read inside a certain genre, I can’t stand when this kind of things happen. This could have been a MUCH better read, if I felt like I actually knew and understood the characters. What a waste...
Kind of disappointed in this one, I liked the actual story but cannot stand that the author went the “safe” route instead of giving us information about her characters. The background in a “second chance” romance is really important to show how sincere the characters are about each other. The characters he hawed so much about whether they had been with anyone else during the break. It kind of became and obsession for me and frustrated from the plot. The heroine was obviously a virgin in High school, she specified that he was the first guy she did anything with. But in college all we get is that she had “dated” during the split. When she and the hero get together she is very determined to take it slow, so the implication is that she would have been that way before? He makes random comments about girls etc, but then makes other references like it has been forever since he asked a girl out. When they get together and she calls him her “boyfriend” he says “I’ve been your boyfriend since the first time I talked to you” I may have the wording a little off but that’s basically what he is saying. So I try to make that jump and wonder “ok so that would mean he hadn’t been with anyone else, right?”. With their huge love story and his reason for leaving, you would think something would be mentioned when they start to get intimate? But no not even a hint like “it’s been so long”. they are bothering still so young and it’s only been 3 years. It seems weird that they would jump into bed with someone else. Anyway the long story short is that I am disappointed in the author. My impression is that being a “clean” romance she didn’t want seem to squeaky clean and specific that they are celibate or possibly virgins. That sucks for the rest of us that enjoy reading her books because the characters aren’t the type to slut it up while implying the are madly in love. You can’t please everyone, stick up for your characters. Don’t write a story and leave out important backstory/information to try to please people that probably won’t like your book anyway. I am an avid reader. I will read almost anything and can respect a book for what it is inside of the genre. But when I read inside a certain genre, I can’t stand when this kind of things happen. This could have been a MUCH better read, if I felt like I actually knew and understood the characters. What a waste...
January 10, 2020
The second book in the End of the Line series, this book can be read independently, but why would your really want to miss The Friend Zone? There are a few cameo appearances from Logan and Jess. I especially love Jess and how she reams Bash about what he did wrong with Ember. I love seeing friends who have each other's backs!
So, Ember and Bash were dating in high school, when their single parents met and eloped in a short number of weeks. All of a sudden they're step-brother and sister and Bash's dad is warning him away. He moves out without explaining anything to Ember and they have little contact for four years. Flash forward four years, they're now at the same college in Seattle. Can their relationship move past misunderstandings, insecurities, and family dynamics?
I loved Ember and Bash together. I was rooting for them all the way! The chemistry was almost too hot for me, but I knew I could trust Sariah Wilson not to cross that line. She also did a great job forging a emotional connection along with the strong physical one.
I can't wait for more in this series!
Content: steamy clean (lots of making out, innuendo, no language)
So, Ember and Bash were dating in high school, when their single parents met and eloped in a short number of weeks. All of a sudden they're step-brother and sister and Bash's dad is warning him away. He moves out without explaining anything to Ember and they have little contact for four years. Flash forward four years, they're now at the same college in Seattle. Can their relationship move past misunderstandings, insecurities, and family dynamics?
I loved Ember and Bash together. I was rooting for them all the way! The chemistry was almost too hot for me, but I knew I could trust Sariah Wilson not to cross that line. She also did a great job forging a emotional connection along with the strong physical one.
I can't wait for more in this series!
Content: steamy clean (lots of making out, innuendo, no language)
January 13, 2020
Romance, clean although PG-13 for some intense kissing and situations; Second in a series but stand alone read.
Another fun romantic sports novel with a perfect romance for two step siblings. EOL, End of the Line brings back 'Bash' into his family home that includes step parent and siblings, including Ember, a high school crush who became off limits as a new step sibling 4 years prior. As these two both fight their feelings, disappointments, worries, and combustible attraction for each other and Bash trying to succeed in college and football, the story is told from alternating points of view. S.W. does a beautiful job creating tension, getting the feelings, wants, hurts, heartaches, and of course attraction from both points of view. Cute continuation of the EOL football team setting and revisiting one of the characters mentioned in the first book of this series. Another fun, clean romantic read from S.W.
I received an ARC of the novel from the publisher via NetGalley. My opinions are my own.
Another fun romantic sports novel with a perfect romance for two step siblings. EOL, End of the Line brings back 'Bash' into his family home that includes step parent and siblings, including Ember, a high school crush who became off limits as a new step sibling 4 years prior. As these two both fight their feelings, disappointments, worries, and combustible attraction for each other and Bash trying to succeed in college and football, the story is told from alternating points of view. S.W. does a beautiful job creating tension, getting the feelings, wants, hurts, heartaches, and of course attraction from both points of view. Cute continuation of the EOL football team setting and revisiting one of the characters mentioned in the first book of this series. Another fun, clean romantic read from S.W.
I received an ARC of the novel from the publisher via NetGalley. My opinions are my own.
November 13, 2019
Another winner! Once more, the author has created a wonderful young love romance. In this book, Ember and Bash are ripped apart suddenly when their parents elope and their budding romance becomes illicit. There is significant angst throughout the book as Ember and Bash struggle with their own issues as they try to fit into their new reality.
Their romance is very sweet and full of promise, until it can't exist. As they struggle through this, clinical depression, drug abuse, and broken families play a significant role. While these are difficult issues, the author handles them with a gentle touch, respect, and compassion.
If you enjoy the genre, you will love this book. The author is on my must read authors' list and has, once more, delivered a compelling and clean romance with depth. Put this one at the top of your TBR list.
Their romance is very sweet and full of promise, until it can't exist. As they struggle through this, clinical depression, drug abuse, and broken families play a significant role. While these are difficult issues, the author handles them with a gentle touch, respect, and compassion.
If you enjoy the genre, you will love this book. The author is on my must read authors' list and has, once more, delivered a compelling and clean romance with depth. Put this one at the top of your TBR list.
November 13, 2019
My reaction to this book, as to all Sariah Wilson books is "who needs sleep?"
Bash (best name ever!) is swoony and awesome and Ember (equally awesome name, same as my first pony) is well rounded and worthy of swoony Bash.
There are a few deeper themes in this book about mental health, addiction and such. Which while not exactly usual from this author, were well done and fit the story.
Recommended.
Bash (best name ever!) is swoony and awesome and Ember (equally awesome name, same as my first pony) is well rounded and worthy of swoony Bash.
There are a few deeper themes in this book about mental health, addiction and such. Which while not exactly usual from this author, were well done and fit the story.
Recommended.
January 7, 2020
The witty banter in Just a Boyfriend is a signature move of Ms. Wilson. In fact, it's one reason I continue to read her books. I love the rapid dialogue between the hero and heroine. And there are some great secondary characters that add to the humor.
Plus, I was happy to see my faves from book 1 in the series.
A great, quick romantic read.
*I received a complimentary copy from the publisher via NetGalley. My review was not required nor influenced.
Plus, I was happy to see my faves from book 1 in the series.
A great, quick romantic read.
*I received a complimentary copy from the publisher via NetGalley. My review was not required nor influenced.
January 9, 2020
book 2 in the series. i have read book 1 ... i did win this in a giveaway ... great characters ... love the name Bash ... well written .. will hold your interest. check it out. i see another one in this series is coming soon.
March 21, 2020
A quarantine is the one time a year when a girl can read whatever trashy romances she wants to and no other girls are allowed to say anything about it
May 22, 2022
Great swoon, but a little bit of a “treadmill” book. Same internal dialogue over and over. I really loved the first half of the book, but the repetitious story just got kind of old and ruined some of the spark for me.
I would also add that there was a lot more talk about intimacy in this book and both party’s wanting to have that with the other person. It was too much and took away from the love aspect and moved it more into lust at times.
I would also add that there was a lot more talk about intimacy in this book and both party’s wanting to have that with the other person. It was too much and took away from the love aspect and moved it more into lust at times.
December 28, 2019
I received a copy of this in exchange for my honest review. Another sweet book by Sariah! Ember and Bash were in love in high school. Their parents meet and also fall in love and get married. Bash leaves so his father can be happy with his new wife but he never gets over Ember. This is a story of two very hurt and damaged people working their way back to each other.
January 22, 2020
Another fun romance by Sariah Wilson. Bash (Ian Sebastian) returns to town and everyone is excited. Everyone except for Ember, his once-upon-a-time secret girlfriend in high school who thought Bash was her forever right up until she told him she loved him, their parents eloped and made her his step-sister, and he moved out of her life without reciprocating those words, never speaking to her or seeing her again for 3 long years. Now he’s at her same college, since he got kicked off the team of a Division 1 school for failing his drug test. He’s on a last-chance team, trying to get his life together, but seeing Ember again throws all his plans to the wind. He’s never stopped loving her, but his dad asked him to leave her alone and he had no other choice but to remove himself from her life to keep his father and his new family happy. This story had lots of twisty-twists and deep-seeded demons to overcome, a forbidden romance that drives the heart crazy, and awesome characters. Super fun read.
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