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The Rules #2
In the Dark
The girl next door isn’t what she seems…
Stuck spending the summer with his screwed up family, Gabriel Walker is bored out of his mind and looking for an adventure. And he seems to find it with the hot girl who lives next door. The attraction between them is instant. Electric. Soon they’re spending every stolen minute together. Talk about the perfect summer fling…
Lucy isn’t what she seems. She doesn’t live next door—she’s the girl who’s been hired to house sit for the summer. If Gabe wants to believe she’s a spoiled rich girl looking for some fun, she can go along with that. After the summer, she’ll never see him again.
They don’t count on running into each other at college. Now Lucy must keep up the pretense of being a rich girl—and it’s exhausting. She knows she’s falling in love with Gabe and she’s scared he feels the same. Will he still care about her when he discovers the truth?
Stuck spending the summer with his screwed up family, Gabriel Walker is bored out of his mind and looking for an adventure. And he seems to find it with the hot girl who lives next door. The attraction between them is instant. Electric. Soon they’re spending every stolen minute together. Talk about the perfect summer fling…
Lucy isn’t what she seems. She doesn’t live next door—she’s the girl who’s been hired to house sit for the summer. If Gabe wants to believe she’s a spoiled rich girl looking for some fun, she can go along with that. After the summer, she’ll never see him again.
They don’t count on running into each other at college. Now Lucy must keep up the pretense of being a rich girl—and it’s exhausting. She knows she’s falling in love with Gabe and she’s scared he feels the same. Will he still care about her when he discovers the truth?
339 pages, ebook
First published August 19, 2015
234 people are currently reading
4,416 people want to read
About the author
Monica Murphy
117 books18k followersNew York Times, USA Today and international bestselling author. A believer in kissing. A believer of love.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 259 reviews
February 26, 2018
Uff das war ein wilder Ritt mit vielen Auf und Abs. Die erste Hälfte fand ich echt mies. Mir gingen beide Protagonisten auf die Nerven. Gabe fand ich verwöhnt und eingebildet. Lucy hatte Rückgrat wie ein Gummibärchen und ihre Komplexe und ihre Diät gingen mir mächtig gegen den Strich. Zu allem Überfluss war die erste Hälfte des Buches leider quasi auch kein Plot vorhanden. Dafür wurde aus jeder Kleinigkeit ein Riesen Drama gemacht. Auch der Schreibstil lies zu wünschen übrig... bin mir aber nicht sicher ob das nicht auch an der miesen Übersetzung lag. Als Beispiel führe ich hier nur mal eine random stelle an in der seine Boxershort als Höschen bezeichnet wird! Ehem hallo?! Geht's noch abturnender?! 😅🙈
Von der Hälfte an muss ich sagen, dass mich das Buch kurzzeitig gut unterhalten konnte, als dann plötzlich mal etwas Plot aufkam, allerdings entwickelte sich der dann wieder in so eine typische Richtung, das mit der Spaß auch echt schnell wieder verging...
Das Ende war okay, aber auch keine Überraschung 🤷🏼♀️
Von der Hälfte an muss ich sagen, dass mich das Buch kurzzeitig gut unterhalten konnte, als dann plötzlich mal etwas Plot aufkam, allerdings entwickelte sich der dann wieder in so eine typische Richtung, das mit der Spaß auch echt schnell wieder verging...
Das Ende war okay, aber auch keine Überraschung 🤷🏼♀️
August 24, 2015
In the Dark is Lucy and Gabe's story. We first met Gabe in Fair Game is he is Shep's best friend. Keep in mind these are all about different couples and can be read as standalone.
Gabe comes from a wealthy family and is staying with this family at beach house for the summer. It just Lucy and her mother and they have been struggling to get by their whole lives. That is when the opportunity comes up for her to spend the summer housesitting their beach house she takes the chance.
Gabe is immediately attracted to Lucy and wants to get to know her, but she isn't interested. She knows their worlds would never connect and isn't the type of girl two have a summer fling. At least that's her plan until she get to know him better. The more time they spend together she can't deny her attraction and is willing to take what she can get: one fantastic summer.
Gabe and Lucy are absolutely perfect for each other and I was immediately cheering for them. I wanted Gabe to move past his "player" status and I wanted Lucy to feel like she was more and worthy. Gabe helped Lucy with her confidence and to me that is priceless. Lucy showed Gabe he can be more in life and be himself, not who his father expects him to be.
I love these fun, college romance's Monica is delivering. They have tons of heat, humor and romance. I love how these guys are willing to change their ways and commit to these girls. As Monica said at the end, she isn't trying to reinvent the wheel, she is just writing something fun. Trust me, I am not complaining and I am hooked! These books give you butterflies, keep you engaged and leave you wanting more. I cannot wait to see what comes next in Slow Play.
ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review.
Gabe comes from a wealthy family and is staying with this family at beach house for the summer. It just Lucy and her mother and they have been struggling to get by their whole lives. That is when the opportunity comes up for her to spend the summer housesitting their beach house she takes the chance.
Gabe is immediately attracted to Lucy and wants to get to know her, but she isn't interested. She knows their worlds would never connect and isn't the type of girl two have a summer fling. At least that's her plan until she get to know him better. The more time they spend together she can't deny her attraction and is willing to take what she can get: one fantastic summer.
Gabe and Lucy are absolutely perfect for each other and I was immediately cheering for them. I wanted Gabe to move past his "player" status and I wanted Lucy to feel like she was more and worthy. Gabe helped Lucy with her confidence and to me that is priceless. Lucy showed Gabe he can be more in life and be himself, not who his father expects him to be.
I love these fun, college romance's Monica is delivering. They have tons of heat, humor and romance. I love how these guys are willing to change their ways and commit to these girls. As Monica said at the end, she isn't trying to reinvent the wheel, she is just writing something fun. Trust me, I am not complaining and I am hooked! These books give you butterflies, keep you engaged and leave you wanting more. I cannot wait to see what comes next in Slow Play.
ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review.
August 25, 2015
4 Gabe Can Find Me in the Dark Stars
In the Dark is a standalone and is part of The Rules series. Each book is about the three guys who are best friends.
Fair Game, #1 - > Shep and Jade’s Story
In the Dark #2 - > Gabe and Luce’s Story
Slow Play #3 - > Tristan and Alexandria’s Story
I like this series because it has elements I look for in a college romance read. I like that each book are standalones. I love that it’s light-hearted and they are easy reads. I also like there are strong Heroes (from a prestigious background) and there are Heroines that are sassy, but are also hard workers.
Gabe doesn’t want attachments. He doesn’t sleep with the same girl twice and he has no trouble getting them. Lucy is a sexy Latina, house sitting for the summer. If only the mansion she’s staying at is really hers, but it’s not. Gabe lives next door and he’s been eyeing her for weeks.
After a few playful banter glances, Gabe decides to finally make his move. He just wants a summer fling. That’s it.
The first thing I notice when I started In the Dark is that it’s a little different from Fair Game. It’s still light and silly, but it’s not AS silly as Fair Game. I liked how funny Fair Game was, but that’s just me. I think Gabe and Luce had insta-attraction at first bat. There’s nothing wrong with that, I kind of like how I could cut through the stuff and get to the meat.
As Luce housesits, she pretends that it’s her house. Gabe thinks she is rich and she doesn’t clarify the situation for him. Usually when there is a “secret” throughout the book, it kind of irritates me, but it wasn’t the focal point of the story, so I kind of glossed over this bit. I get that Luce is embarrassed and she views this as a summer fling too, so why not right?
“I think I have a problem. And his name is Gabriel Walker. Not that he’s a problem. More like… an addiction. And addictions are bad, right? They consume you until you can think of nothing else but having your next hit. Your next fix. It’s like I need him. Not want him- need him.”
The book shifts at the second half and if you didn’t read the blurb, then you don’t know what I am talking about and I kind of like that. I went into this book blindly because I loved Fair Game so much, I didn’t need to know the premise of In the Dark. I suggest this is the way to go.
I enjoyed the first half and I enjoyed the second half. I wouldn’t say anything is lacking in this book, it was just simply different from Fair Game. I found it tamer and easier to read. I liked reading the bits of Shep and Jade and I kind of wanted more of them (especially in the first half). We even get Tristan and I can’t wait for his story.
Overall, it’s a cute college romance read about two young lovers. One is rich and one is not. One plays the field and the other one doesn’t really know what she wants. If you are a fan of the series, I say still continue with it. I will!
An Arc was provided
Fair Game REVIEW | AMAZON
In the Dark AMAZON
March 21, 2016
ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review
" This girl...she's mine. She is it for me. And she doesn't even fucking know it yet."
I absolutely adore Monica Murphy and her books. There is nothing like getting lost in her books, characters, and writing. And in her newest release, In the Dark is a prime example of how addicted I am to The Rules Series. Ms. Murphy has managed to captured the sweet, sexy, fun, and humorous side of the New Adult genre.
In The Dark was a fun, sexy, and sweet read!!! If you have read the first book, Fair Game, then we were introduced to three best friends who had one rule when it comes to women.. One night only. No repeats. Well, that rule went out the window when Shep fell in loved with Jade leaving Tristan and Gabe left. Well with only two left in the group, Gabe never thought he would be the next one willing to break the rules. And all it took was one summer in Santa Barbara to change this manwhore to reconsider maybe the rules were meant to be broken.
Gabe Walker is Mr. GQ. Well that's what his next door neighbor has labeled him when she caught him watching her. When Gabe Walker first laid eyes on Lucy, he was addicted. She was his drug and all he wanted to do was get to know who is the beauty staying next door to him at their family summer rental house. Automatically, Gabe assumed she was from a wealthy family like himself since she was staying in a gated wealthy community in Santa Barbara. But as it turns out, Lucy was just the house-sitter and she never corrected Gabe's assumption of her social status.
"I'll fuck her right now if she'll let me. I'd fuck her for the rest of her life is she said yes. Insane, outrageous thought, but true nonetheless. She has me. In the palm of her hands, she has me, holding me tight, nearly chocking me with it but I want the pain."
Lucy was the shy, innocent girl who never really focused much on boys since she was busy saving money for tuition and lived a very sheltered life. And so when she meets Gabe, she loved that he was attracted to her. Gabe made her feel special and important. So when Gabe and her decided to just keep their relationship as a summer fling, they both didn't expect to fall madly deeply in love with one another but both never expressed their feelings to one another since it was just a "fling." So when summer ended, they both went on their separate ways but as it turns out Lucy was the new transferred student. As Gabe and Lucy are reunited, their feelings for each other intensifies. So what happens when Gabe learns of Lucy's lies? Will Gabe be able to forgive Lucy for leaving him in the dark?
I absolutely loved Gabe. He was straightforward and didn't lead Lucy on. He was very upfront to her when they first met that he was not the commitment kind of guy so Lucy didn't have these high hopes and expectations when she offered her virginity to him. But what I most especially loved about Gabe was that we saw growth in his character from manwhore to boyfriend. I loved that he adored Lucy's body and made her feel comfortable in her own skin.
In The Dark was a fantastic read. It had all the elements that I loved from romance, humor, angst, and steam!!! If you are looking for a sweet and sexy college romance read then I would definitely recommend In the Dark.
**In the Dark is the second installment of The Rules Series and can be read as a standalone. But I highly recommend you to read the first book since everyone should meet and fall in love with Shep and Jade!!!**
Review can also be found on Four Chicks Flipping Pages: http://fourchicksflippingpages.weebly...
" This girl...she's mine. She is it for me. And she doesn't even fucking know it yet."
I absolutely adore Monica Murphy and her books. There is nothing like getting lost in her books, characters, and writing. And in her newest release, In the Dark is a prime example of how addicted I am to The Rules Series. Ms. Murphy has managed to captured the sweet, sexy, fun, and humorous side of the New Adult genre.
In The Dark was a fun, sexy, and sweet read!!! If you have read the first book, Fair Game, then we were introduced to three best friends who had one rule when it comes to women.. One night only. No repeats. Well, that rule went out the window when Shep fell in loved with Jade leaving Tristan and Gabe left. Well with only two left in the group, Gabe never thought he would be the next one willing to break the rules. And all it took was one summer in Santa Barbara to change this manwhore to reconsider maybe the rules were meant to be broken.
Gabe Walker is Mr. GQ. Well that's what his next door neighbor has labeled him when she caught him watching her. When Gabe Walker first laid eyes on Lucy, he was addicted. She was his drug and all he wanted to do was get to know who is the beauty staying next door to him at their family summer rental house. Automatically, Gabe assumed she was from a wealthy family like himself since she was staying in a gated wealthy community in Santa Barbara. But as it turns out, Lucy was just the house-sitter and she never corrected Gabe's assumption of her social status.
"I'll fuck her right now if she'll let me. I'd fuck her for the rest of her life is she said yes. Insane, outrageous thought, but true nonetheless. She has me. In the palm of her hands, she has me, holding me tight, nearly chocking me with it but I want the pain."
Lucy was the shy, innocent girl who never really focused much on boys since she was busy saving money for tuition and lived a very sheltered life. And so when she meets Gabe, she loved that he was attracted to her. Gabe made her feel special and important. So when Gabe and her decided to just keep their relationship as a summer fling, they both didn't expect to fall madly deeply in love with one another but both never expressed their feelings to one another since it was just a "fling." So when summer ended, they both went on their separate ways but as it turns out Lucy was the new transferred student. As Gabe and Lucy are reunited, their feelings for each other intensifies. So what happens when Gabe learns of Lucy's lies? Will Gabe be able to forgive Lucy for leaving him in the dark?
I absolutely loved Gabe. He was straightforward and didn't lead Lucy on. He was very upfront to her when they first met that he was not the commitment kind of guy so Lucy didn't have these high hopes and expectations when she offered her virginity to him. But what I most especially loved about Gabe was that we saw growth in his character from manwhore to boyfriend. I loved that he adored Lucy's body and made her feel comfortable in her own skin.
In The Dark was a fantastic read. It had all the elements that I loved from romance, humor, angst, and steam!!! If you are looking for a sweet and sexy college romance read then I would definitely recommend In the Dark.
**In the Dark is the second installment of The Rules Series and can be read as a standalone. But I highly recommend you to read the first book since everyone should meet and fall in love with Shep and Jade!!!**
Review can also be found on Four Chicks Flipping Pages: http://fourchicksflippingpages.weebly...
August 29, 2015
4 "Sweet Gabe" stars
We've met Gabe in Fair game . He was the easy going, sexy bad boy who liked to sleep with different girls every night, but he is so much more!
Besides his smoking hot body and cocky guy attitude he was a lonley man!
In this story we see Gabe falling inlove ! He is changing, he wants to love and be loved. He wants to be loyal and worth it for The One and this one has a name.. Lucy !
When they met they instantly felt the connection between them.. but everything is based on a lie. They can't stop themselves from be toghether, go out, make out and make.. other things ! But when the time to separe come, when the summer ended.. they are both heartbroken !
Lucy is the poor Mexan who has to live in the big house just to keep it clean and safe till the owner came home from his trip. Little did she knows she would find this sexy boy living next door. She would go out with him, kiss him, fall for him.. no, she has never imagine that because she is self-conscious, ashamed of her curves and dedicated to study and finding a good job. She lied to him because she thought he wouldn't want a girl who comes from a poor family.. she was wrong!
Despited everything Gabe is the one showing her that she has a beautiful body and mind. Make her feel good and protected..
Although she was sassy and sweet , she pissed me off too! Her endless lies and fears. I respect some of her desicions but there were times that she acted childish instead of tell the truth about everything she decided to play along again because she was too scared of Gabe leaving her.
They both were inlove and afraid at the same time but fighting for what you love is the answer to everything.
The things that happened in the bedroom were HOT , I will tell you that! Gabe knows his way when it comes to make you hot and bothered!
They weren't afraid to say what they want and feel when they were together!
This story had more angst than the first. More drama and tears, but despite that it was funny and really sexy ! Both of them changed so much and it was beautiful to read about that. They matured and determined they were! Gabe melted my heart a countless times and the way he fought to make Lucy his girl made me love him even more!
They both made mistakes but they learned from them and move on.. together !
Can't wait for Tristan's book! This boy needs serious taming!
I want to give her the moon and the stars and everything in between..
We've met Gabe in Fair game . He was the easy going, sexy bad boy who liked to sleep with different girls every night, but he is so much more!
Besides his smoking hot body and cocky guy attitude he was a lonley man!
In this story we see Gabe falling inlove ! He is changing, he wants to love and be loved. He wants to be loyal and worth it for The One and this one has a name.. Lucy !
When they met they instantly felt the connection between them.. but everything is based on a lie. They can't stop themselves from be toghether, go out, make out and make.. other things ! But when the time to separe come, when the summer ended.. they are both heartbroken !
Lucy is the poor Mexan who has to live in the big house just to keep it clean and safe till the owner came home from his trip. Little did she knows she would find this sexy boy living next door. She would go out with him, kiss him, fall for him.. no, she has never imagine that because she is self-conscious, ashamed of her curves and dedicated to study and finding a good job. She lied to him because she thought he wouldn't want a girl who comes from a poor family.. she was wrong!
Despited everything Gabe is the one showing her that she has a beautiful body and mind. Make her feel good and protected..
I've always been a nobody but Gabe makes me feel...special. Like I'm sexy. Like I'm the only girl that matters to him. And I like that. I love it.
Although she was sassy and sweet , she pissed me off too! Her endless lies and fears. I respect some of her desicions but there were times that she acted childish instead of tell the truth about everything she decided to play along again because she was too scared of Gabe leaving her.
They both were inlove and afraid at the same time but fighting for what you love is the answer to everything.
The things that happened in the bedroom were HOT , I will tell you that! Gabe knows his way when it comes to make you hot and bothered!
They weren't afraid to say what they want and feel when they were together!
This story had more angst than the first. More drama and tears, but despite that it was funny and really sexy ! Both of them changed so much and it was beautiful to read about that. They matured and determined they were! Gabe melted my heart a countless times and the way he fought to make Lucy his girl made me love him even more!
They both made mistakes but they learned from them and move on.. together !
Can't wait for Tristan's book! This boy needs serious taming!
August 26, 2015
Here I go again, giving my own book a five star review but really I'm just wanting to share with you some graphic teasers that you can use if you want. This series is pure sexy, silly fun, though I will confess - Gabe & Lucy's story has a little more angst in it! Hope you enjoy. :)
Read
August 29, 2015Loved the first book but couldn't get into this one. Lucy and her weight issue is on my nerve. She had no issues with her curves in the beginning wearing her tiny black two piece swimming everyday while Gabe was spying on her. Now that they've met it's just stupid and I can't take it any more. Come on! If you were fat you wouldn't be in a two pc showing off unless you were confidant enough to own your body! And you would have to be fucking huge to break a damn couch and I still have doubts that it would break! Haha!
I'm done! It's a DNF at 21%!
I'm done! It's a DNF at 21%!
August 28, 2015
Warning: In the Dark can lead to a severe Gabe addiction. You will want Gabriel Walker in a way you have never wanted a book boyfriend before. Proceed with caution!
Gabe is on vacation with his family when he spots the beauty next door. One look is all it takes for him to become obsessed and soon he is following her schedule and sitting outside everyday when he knows she will be going for a swim. He finally gets the courage to pursue her but when he does he realizes she isn't like he expected - she's better.
Lucy is house sitting for the family her mother works for and living life like the rich and famous for the summer. She see's the GQ looking guy watching her from next door and think he will never come over and make a move. She wasn't prepared for him to actually ask her out. But he's money and good looks, and she's poor with lush curves she doesn't appreciate. Can two opposites work together?
This book shows a completely different side to Gabe that was a lot sweeter than I ever thought possible. If you've read Fair Game then you know him to be a complete manwhore. Well ladies, the manwhore has retired. Gabe was cute and caring and he really went all in with Lucy. I liked how once he committed to her, that was it for him and he didn't need anyone else. i can't say he didn't mess up at all but when he did, he really made up for it and would do anything to get back in Lucy's good graces.
I wish I could say I felt the same about Lucy but I was just too annoyed with her character to like her. She was really self-conscious about her body and didn't think anyone would like her curves. In the beginning it was frustrating that she kept bringing up her diet and weight. I knew going into the book that she lied about having money, I just didn't think it would bug me as much as it did. The problem was that it made her insecurities even more apparent.
The beginning started off a little rocky and I was nervous about reading more. Lucy's constant putting herself down, and her mother's crazy warning's about dating and over protectiveness were getting on my nerves.I thought that we would be dealing with this the rest of the story but that wasn't the case. The story took a turn for the better and I fell in love. As I continued with the book we heard less about the diet and there were no more phone calls from Lucy's crazy mother. Without all of that I was able to focus on Lucy and Gabe as a couple and how adorable they were together.
Overall, this was a great story of opposites attracting and overcoming everyday struggles to stay together. I liked Gabe and how sweet he was with Lucy, especially at the end. He had his faults but nothing that I couldn't get over. Tristan's book is next and I'm already dying to see how he redeems himself of his manwhore status.
Gabe is on vacation with his family when he spots the beauty next door. One look is all it takes for him to become obsessed and soon he is following her schedule and sitting outside everyday when he knows she will be going for a swim. He finally gets the courage to pursue her but when he does he realizes she isn't like he expected - she's better.
Lucy is house sitting for the family her mother works for and living life like the rich and famous for the summer. She see's the GQ looking guy watching her from next door and think he will never come over and make a move. She wasn't prepared for him to actually ask her out. But he's money and good looks, and she's poor with lush curves she doesn't appreciate. Can two opposites work together?
This book shows a completely different side to Gabe that was a lot sweeter than I ever thought possible. If you've read Fair Game then you know him to be a complete manwhore. Well ladies, the manwhore has retired. Gabe was cute and caring and he really went all in with Lucy. I liked how once he committed to her, that was it for him and he didn't need anyone else. i can't say he didn't mess up at all but when he did, he really made up for it and would do anything to get back in Lucy's good graces.
I wish I could say I felt the same about Lucy but I was just too annoyed with her character to like her. She was really self-conscious about her body and didn't think anyone would like her curves. In the beginning it was frustrating that she kept bringing up her diet and weight. I knew going into the book that she lied about having money, I just didn't think it would bug me as much as it did. The problem was that it made her insecurities even more apparent.
The beginning started off a little rocky and I was nervous about reading more. Lucy's constant putting herself down, and her mother's crazy warning's about dating and over protectiveness were getting on my nerves.I thought that we would be dealing with this the rest of the story but that wasn't the case. The story took a turn for the better and I fell in love. As I continued with the book we heard less about the diet and there were no more phone calls from Lucy's crazy mother. Without all of that I was able to focus on Lucy and Gabe as a couple and how adorable they were together.
Overall, this was a great story of opposites attracting and overcoming everyday struggles to stay together. I liked Gabe and how sweet he was with Lucy, especially at the end. He had his faults but nothing that I couldn't get over. Tristan's book is next and I'm already dying to see how he redeems himself of his manwhore status.
August 26, 2015
2.5 stars
February 5, 2023
It’s time for the second of the campus players to fall in love! In this book, Gabe goes on vacation with his family. Despite renting a beautiful mansion by the beach, he’s bored out of his mind. That is, until he lays eyes on the gorgeous girl next door…
Like the first in this series, this book has a lovable and relatable heroine, a former-playboy rich hero, and lots of spice.
This book reads very similar to the first in the series, and doesn’t necessarily bring anything new to the table. It even has an almost identical scene to the first book, where Gabe pushes Lucy away because he thinks he isn’t good enough for her/that she’s too innocent for him. However, with romance books, they’re meant for comfort, so predictability, in my eyes, is a good thing!
I’d been hoping, however, for a little more drama with the major secret that Lucy is keeping for the majority of the book. Sure, Gabe is upset when he finds out, but the way it played out lacked oomf for me. It had been built up so much, and then it just kind of… fizzled.
All that said, now that I know what to expect from this series, I can’t wait to read the third when I’m in the mood for this specific romance formula!
POPSUGAR Reading Challenge 2023: This book fulfills the "A book with a fat lead " category. - I’m counting this book because the heroine self-identifies as “fat” and she’s always on a diet and trying to exercise. I’m not thrilled that PopSugar decided to use that word for the category.
Like the first in this series, this book has a lovable and relatable heroine, a former-playboy rich hero, and lots of spice.
This book reads very similar to the first in the series, and doesn’t necessarily bring anything new to the table. It even has an almost identical scene to the first book, where Gabe pushes Lucy away because he thinks he isn’t good enough for her/that she’s too innocent for him. However, with romance books, they’re meant for comfort, so predictability, in my eyes, is a good thing!
I’d been hoping, however, for a little more drama with the major secret that Lucy is keeping for the majority of the book. Sure, Gabe is upset when he finds out, but the way it played out lacked oomf for me. It had been built up so much, and then it just kind of… fizzled.
All that said, now that I know what to expect from this series, I can’t wait to read the third when I’m in the mood for this specific romance formula!
POPSUGAR Reading Challenge 2023: This book fulfills the "A book with a fat lead " category. - I’m counting this book because the heroine self-identifies as “fat” and she’s always on a diet and trying to exercise. I’m not thrilled that PopSugar decided to use that word for the category.
February 11, 2019
This was a fun read. I definitely enjoyed it a little more than Fair Game. Again the characters, Gabe and Lucy, were likable. Their chemistry was off the charts. They are adorable together. Though some parts didn't sit well with me. For example, when Lucy was a little bit sorry for being a virgin, like no girl you don't feel sorry for that, and some other parts too. But overall it was enjoyable. I am looking forward to reading the next book to see Tristan's story.
August 11, 2017
Inhalt
Gabriel das Mädchen nebenan zum ersten Mal erblickt, möchte er sie kennenlernen. Sie ist perfekt - perfekt als ein Sommerflirt. Er nähert sich ihr an und bald knistert es gewaltig zwischen ihnen. Aber Lucy lässt ihn nicht sofort ran, wie Gabriel es erwartet hat.
Denn Lucy ist gar kein reiches, verwöhntes Mädchen, auch wenn es für Gabriel auf den ersten Blick so aussehen mag. Sie hütet nur das Haus, aber das weiß Gabe ja nicht. Und was ist schon dabei? Nach dem Sommer werden sie sich ja nicht wiedersehen ...
Protagonisten
Lucys Mutter war erst sechzehn als sie schwanger wurde und vom Vater des Kindes im Stich gelassen wurde, deswegen ist sie besonders streng zu Lucy. Und darum ist Lucy auch relativ unerfahren und zurückhaltend, als Gabriel sich ihr annähert. Aber sie spürt auch seine Anziehungskraft und kann nicht ohne ihn. Sie ist aber nicht das, was Gabriel erwartet. Denn erstmal ist sie eben nicht reich, stattdessen muss sie selbst arbeiten um ihr Studium finanzieren. Sie möchte nicht, dass Gabriel es erfährt und eigentlich spielt es ja auch nicht wirklich eine Rolle, wenn sie sich danach nicht wiedersehen. Außerdem ist sie Jungfrau. Erst will sie es Gabe nicht sagen, weil es ihr unangenehm ist, aber als sie es doch gesteht, hat sie Angst, dass er sich von ihr abwendet. Was er auch tut. Und dann kann sie nicht ohne ihn und sucht einen Kompromiss.
Sie macht sich Sorgen darüber, was passieren wird, wenn Gabriel doch erfährt, dass ie aus ärmeren Verhältnissen stammt und das macht die gesamte zweite Hälfte aus. Das hat mich dann irgendwann wirklich sehr genervt.
Gabriel ist ein Playboy, so wie seine Freunde Shep und Tristan. Als er Lucy trifft, kann er an keine andere mehr denken, keine andere interessiert ihn mehr. Er findet sie einfach sehr sexy und sieht darin auch eine Gelegenheit, die langweiligen Ferien mit seinen Eltern interessanter zu gestalten. Er langweilt sich eben ein bisschen, aber selbst unter anderen Umständen hätte er sicher nicht abgelehnt.
Seine Eltern haben ein Mädchen aus einer reichen Familie für ihn gefunden. Audrey würde sich als zukünftige Schwiegertochter eignen, darum muss er sie öfters treffen, und findet sie nicht besonders ansprechend. Er möchte auch gar nicht tun, was seine Eltern ihm vorschreiben, sondern seinen eigenen Weg gehen. Das ist aber auch nicht so einfach, denn seine Eltern haben bereits alles durchgeplant und Gabe sieht ds letzte Jahr College als letzte Freiheit an, als letzte Möglichkeit, nochmal die Sau rauszulassen. Das plant er auch so zu nutzen.
Aber erstmal muss er ja diesen Sommer überstehen und dann ist da Lucy. Als er erfährt, dass sie Jungfrau ist, geht er erstmal auf Abstand. Er schätzt sie da schon genug, um das zu respektieren und sie zu nichts zu drängen. Und in Gedanken denkt er ständig an Sex und hofft, dass sie es zulässt. Ja klar, Gabe. Aber es überrascht mich nicht wirklich, er macht ja keinen Hehl draus, dass er das wollte. gut fand ich nur, dass er sie nicht drängt.
Die anderen Charaktere der Reihe tauchen auch auf und ich bin schon sehr gespannt auf die Fortsetzung!
Fazit
Mich konnte die Handlung von "Fair Game - Lucy & Gabriel" nicht völlig überzeugen, sie war auch nicht so originell. Ich fand die Geschichte eigentlich ganz in Ordnung, aber Lucy hat mich genervt.
Gabriel das Mädchen nebenan zum ersten Mal erblickt, möchte er sie kennenlernen. Sie ist perfekt - perfekt als ein Sommerflirt. Er nähert sich ihr an und bald knistert es gewaltig zwischen ihnen. Aber Lucy lässt ihn nicht sofort ran, wie Gabriel es erwartet hat.
Denn Lucy ist gar kein reiches, verwöhntes Mädchen, auch wenn es für Gabriel auf den ersten Blick so aussehen mag. Sie hütet nur das Haus, aber das weiß Gabe ja nicht. Und was ist schon dabei? Nach dem Sommer werden sie sich ja nicht wiedersehen ...
Protagonisten
Lucys Mutter war erst sechzehn als sie schwanger wurde und vom Vater des Kindes im Stich gelassen wurde, deswegen ist sie besonders streng zu Lucy. Und darum ist Lucy auch relativ unerfahren und zurückhaltend, als Gabriel sich ihr annähert. Aber sie spürt auch seine Anziehungskraft und kann nicht ohne ihn. Sie ist aber nicht das, was Gabriel erwartet. Denn erstmal ist sie eben nicht reich, stattdessen muss sie selbst arbeiten um ihr Studium finanzieren. Sie möchte nicht, dass Gabriel es erfährt und eigentlich spielt es ja auch nicht wirklich eine Rolle, wenn sie sich danach nicht wiedersehen. Außerdem ist sie Jungfrau. Erst will sie es Gabe nicht sagen, weil es ihr unangenehm ist, aber als sie es doch gesteht, hat sie Angst, dass er sich von ihr abwendet. Was er auch tut. Und dann kann sie nicht ohne ihn und sucht einen Kompromiss.
Sie macht sich Sorgen darüber, was passieren wird, wenn Gabriel doch erfährt, dass ie aus ärmeren Verhältnissen stammt und das macht die gesamte zweite Hälfte aus. Das hat mich dann irgendwann wirklich sehr genervt.
Gabriel ist ein Playboy, so wie seine Freunde Shep und Tristan. Als er Lucy trifft, kann er an keine andere mehr denken, keine andere interessiert ihn mehr. Er findet sie einfach sehr sexy und sieht darin auch eine Gelegenheit, die langweiligen Ferien mit seinen Eltern interessanter zu gestalten. Er langweilt sich eben ein bisschen, aber selbst unter anderen Umständen hätte er sicher nicht abgelehnt.
Seine Eltern haben ein Mädchen aus einer reichen Familie für ihn gefunden. Audrey würde sich als zukünftige Schwiegertochter eignen, darum muss er sie öfters treffen, und findet sie nicht besonders ansprechend. Er möchte auch gar nicht tun, was seine Eltern ihm vorschreiben, sondern seinen eigenen Weg gehen. Das ist aber auch nicht so einfach, denn seine Eltern haben bereits alles durchgeplant und Gabe sieht ds letzte Jahr College als letzte Freiheit an, als letzte Möglichkeit, nochmal die Sau rauszulassen. Das plant er auch so zu nutzen.
Aber erstmal muss er ja diesen Sommer überstehen und dann ist da Lucy. Als er erfährt, dass sie Jungfrau ist, geht er erstmal auf Abstand. Er schätzt sie da schon genug, um das zu respektieren und sie zu nichts zu drängen. Und in Gedanken denkt er ständig an Sex und hofft, dass sie es zulässt. Ja klar, Gabe. Aber es überrascht mich nicht wirklich, er macht ja keinen Hehl draus, dass er das wollte. gut fand ich nur, dass er sie nicht drängt.
Die anderen Charaktere der Reihe tauchen auch auf und ich bin schon sehr gespannt auf die Fortsetzung!
Fazit
Mich konnte die Handlung von "Fair Game - Lucy & Gabriel" nicht völlig überzeugen, sie war auch nicht so originell. Ich fand die Geschichte eigentlich ganz in Ordnung, aber Lucy hat mich genervt.
August 27, 2015
Yup...... read it night and finished it one sitting. Fucking loved it! Now go read it!
August 28, 2015
Original Review @ Naomi’s Reading Palace
After reading and loving Fair Game, the first book in The Rules series, I knew I had to snap up the next book and meet the woman who would tame Gabe. He couldn’t understand Shep’s obsession with Jade and planned on staying single… until he met Lucy.
In the Dark was basically told in two parts; the first part was the summer holiday fling where Gabe and Lucy met. It was funny at first because Gabe seemed to be a bit of a creeper… watching Lucy from his balcony, but it didn’t take long for him to find the courage to act. Lucy enjoyed having the eyes of the hottie next door watching her every day; she puts on a show soaking up the rays and swimming in the pool. She seemed so confident, but in reality, she lacked experience when it came to men. I liked seeing Lucy come out of her shell and the flirty banter she exchanged with Gabe. She may have been attracted to him, but she didn’t hold back when Gabe was a jerk, quick to send him on his way.
The second part was when Lucy and Gabe head back to university. They had their memories, but had to move on to start their lives again. To find out that they are at the same university is a huge shock for both of them, and Lucy finds it hard to keep up her charade. They were still attracted to one another and soon the infatuation took hold again.
I loved both these characters; they were passionate and determined to get what they wanted. They both had a few problems with their families; Gabe’s parents are rich and have a certain plan for him and Lucy’s mother is adamant that boys are the devil (kind of like the mum from the movie The Waterboy!). I liked seeing all the characters from the previous book again too. Gabe would seek advice from Shep for his girl problems, which was amusing, and Lucy’s roommate Gabi was someone that she could rely on.
In the Dark was another entertaining and sizzling read by Monica Murphy. She is a master at building the intensity and sexuality between her characters. They were perfect for one another and were willing to fight for each other. I missed the illegal casino that the guys had in the first book, as it was shut down for the summer, and was slow when it reopened. I could see that Tristan wasn’t dealing well with his guys becoming tied down… I know I’m going to enjoy his story, for sure!
Complimentary copy provided by the Author in exchange for an honest review.
After reading and loving Fair Game, the first book in The Rules series, I knew I had to snap up the next book and meet the woman who would tame Gabe. He couldn’t understand Shep’s obsession with Jade and planned on staying single… until he met Lucy.
In the Dark was basically told in two parts; the first part was the summer holiday fling where Gabe and Lucy met. It was funny at first because Gabe seemed to be a bit of a creeper… watching Lucy from his balcony, but it didn’t take long for him to find the courage to act. Lucy enjoyed having the eyes of the hottie next door watching her every day; she puts on a show soaking up the rays and swimming in the pool. She seemed so confident, but in reality, she lacked experience when it came to men. I liked seeing Lucy come out of her shell and the flirty banter she exchanged with Gabe. She may have been attracted to him, but she didn’t hold back when Gabe was a jerk, quick to send him on his way.
The second part was when Lucy and Gabe head back to university. They had their memories, but had to move on to start their lives again. To find out that they are at the same university is a huge shock for both of them, and Lucy finds it hard to keep up her charade. They were still attracted to one another and soon the infatuation took hold again.
I loved both these characters; they were passionate and determined to get what they wanted. They both had a few problems with their families; Gabe’s parents are rich and have a certain plan for him and Lucy’s mother is adamant that boys are the devil (kind of like the mum from the movie The Waterboy!). I liked seeing all the characters from the previous book again too. Gabe would seek advice from Shep for his girl problems, which was amusing, and Lucy’s roommate Gabi was someone that she could rely on.
In the Dark was another entertaining and sizzling read by Monica Murphy. She is a master at building the intensity and sexuality between her characters. They were perfect for one another and were willing to fight for each other. I missed the illegal casino that the guys had in the first book, as it was shut down for the summer, and was slow when it reopened. I could see that Tristan wasn’t dealing well with his guys becoming tied down… I know I’m going to enjoy his story, for sure!
Complimentary copy provided by the Author in exchange for an honest review.
February 20, 2018
Wieder gut zu lesen. Allerdings mochte ich das Drama nicht allzu sehr und im Vergleich zum ersten Buch war die Verbindung zwischen Lucy und Gabe beinahe farblos.
August 24, 2015
Review-Jo Rushton 4.5 Stars
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Wow! Monica Murphy is on fire at the moment. Every single book that I read from this author, or her alter ego Karen Erickson, has been a brilliant read. I absolutely love Monica's books and this new series just reaffirms to me why she is one of my favourite authors. Her books are a joy to read and they always make me swoon.
"In The Dark" began as a holiday romance between Gabe and his next door neighbour, Lucy. The pair were in lust at first sight and were soon spending every moment of their holiday together. This first part of the story frustrated me a little with the constant push and pull between the characters and the lack of communication between the couple, especially on Lucy's part. They drove me a little crazy and there were many times when I wanted to bang their heads together. For me, the story became a lot more interesting and exciting once the holiday was over. That was when the fun really started!
Once Gabe and Lucy's holiday romance came to an end, I felt sad for the couple and I wandered if and how they would find each other again. Luckily, I soon realised that fate would bring the pair together again and I couldn't wait to see what was in store for them. I became excited for the couple's future, but I was also feeling apprehensive for Lucy. It was only a matter of time before her previous lies would came back to bite her on the bum. I loved this part of the story and I was so hooked in what was happening between Lucy and Gabe that I refused to put my kindle down, even whilst I prepared dinner, my kindle was permanently in my hand.
What I loved most about this story was how much Gabe changed. From a permanent manwhore emerged the most gorgeous and loyal boyfriend. Falling in love had truly turned Gabe's world upside down. I loved how he reacted to falling head over heels for Lucy, how mature he became and how he was determined to make Lucy his girl. I was cheering Gabe on throughout the entire second half of the book. He just melted my heart and I knew that he was the man for Lucy.
In The Dark gets ❤️❤️❤️❤️.5 from me!
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Wow! Monica Murphy is on fire at the moment. Every single book that I read from this author, or her alter ego Karen Erickson, has been a brilliant read. I absolutely love Monica's books and this new series just reaffirms to me why she is one of my favourite authors. Her books are a joy to read and they always make me swoon.
I was just wondering through life before, acting like a selfish prick and always looking for the next big thrill. Then I met you and realized you were the only thrill I need.
"In The Dark" began as a holiday romance between Gabe and his next door neighbour, Lucy. The pair were in lust at first sight and were soon spending every moment of their holiday together. This first part of the story frustrated me a little with the constant push and pull between the characters and the lack of communication between the couple, especially on Lucy's part. They drove me a little crazy and there were many times when I wanted to bang their heads together. For me, the story became a lot more interesting and exciting once the holiday was over. That was when the fun really started!
I should say no. He's probably trouble. But he just might be worth it.At the beginning of the story, I wasn't so sure of my opinion of Gabe, particularly with his playboy attitude and his flirtatious ways. However I soon warmed to him and once I had reached the final few chapters, I simply adored him. Gabe was so funny, some of the things that he said made me giggle. A good sense of humour was something that he had in common with Lucy. I really liked Lucy at the beginning of the story but then I very quickly changed my mind. There were times that I admired her for being so strong and determined but there were other times that I became angered by her actions. You see, Lucy was keeping Gabe in the dark about her life and although I totally understood her reasons and insecurities, I knew that she was making more trouble for herself in the long run.
I've always been a nobody but Gabe makes me feel...special. Like I'm sexy. Like I'm the only girl that matters to him. And I like that. I love it.
Once Gabe and Lucy's holiday romance came to an end, I felt sad for the couple and I wandered if and how they would find each other again. Luckily, I soon realised that fate would bring the pair together again and I couldn't wait to see what was in store for them. I became excited for the couple's future, but I was also feeling apprehensive for Lucy. It was only a matter of time before her previous lies would came back to bite her on the bum. I loved this part of the story and I was so hooked in what was happening between Lucy and Gabe that I refused to put my kindle down, even whilst I prepared dinner, my kindle was permanently in my hand.
What I loved most about this story was how much Gabe changed. From a permanent manwhore emerged the most gorgeous and loyal boyfriend. Falling in love had truly turned Gabe's world upside down. I loved how he reacted to falling head over heels for Lucy, how mature he became and how he was determined to make Lucy his girl. I was cheering Gabe on throughout the entire second half of the book. He just melted my heart and I knew that he was the man for Lucy.
I want to give her the moon and the stars and everything in between.If you read the first book in the series "Fair Game", then you will love catching up with Jade and Shep again. There was a gorgeous scene between Shep and Gabe where they talked about falling in love which I loved reading. I really felt as though I got more of an opportunity to understand the dynamics of Shep, Gabe and Tristan's relationship in this book. I am now looking forward to Tristan's book, but I don't envy Monica because that boy is wild and I just can't imagine him being able to settle down for one minute. He is going to need someone special to tame his wild ways! Lol!
In The Dark gets ❤️❤️❤️❤️.5 from me!
September 3, 2015
I really enjoyed the first book in this series and was excited to read this one. Gabe is a total player in the first book. Once and done. And the whole watching Shep fall for Jade - he didn't want any of that. But then he spends the summer with Lucy.
It starts from him watching her and moves to him not able to resist her. They have an interesting kinda fling for the summer. But Luce is lying to him. I always struggle when a character is lying. And it was the same here. I didn't really see the need for her lying. She's not got money. She's housesitting. What will he do if he finds out? She's expecting things to be a fling anyway, I just don't get what the difference would be.
I did like that she had some body image issues. He's constantly telling her how much he loves her curves but she's always trying to loose weight. That part felt real and important to me.
Loved Gabe. He's fighting the falling thing tooth and nail but once he realizes that he really does want a relationship with Luce, he chases after her. And these two are hot together.
Then the story shifts to be back at college and their reaction to seeing each other again was a bit surprising. I loved the way Gabe reacted not so much with Luce.
The rest of the story felt just okay. A kinda perdictable issue comes up for them. I wasn't surprised at all. It did feel like something they should have to tackle based on Lucy's youth. I, also think it's what brought them finally to the same page.
This is a good sequel to the first book, though I enjoyed Fair Game a lot more. I enjoyed Gabe's story even if I wasn't Lucy's biggest fan. It's great New Adult with a healthy portion of hot and sexy.
If you read the first, you'll want this one too. If you enjoy the extra hot New Adult, you want this one.
It starts from him watching her and moves to him not able to resist her. They have an interesting kinda fling for the summer. But Luce is lying to him. I always struggle when a character is lying. And it was the same here. I didn't really see the need for her lying. She's not got money. She's housesitting. What will he do if he finds out? She's expecting things to be a fling anyway, I just don't get what the difference would be.
I did like that she had some body image issues. He's constantly telling her how much he loves her curves but she's always trying to loose weight. That part felt real and important to me.
Loved Gabe. He's fighting the falling thing tooth and nail but once he realizes that he really does want a relationship with Luce, he chases after her. And these two are hot together.
Then the story shifts to be back at college and their reaction to seeing each other again was a bit surprising. I loved the way Gabe reacted not so much with Luce.
The rest of the story felt just okay. A kinda perdictable issue comes up for them. I wasn't surprised at all. It did feel like something they should have to tackle based on Lucy's youth. I, also think it's what brought them finally to the same page.
This is a good sequel to the first book, though I enjoyed Fair Game a lot more. I enjoyed Gabe's story even if I wasn't Lucy's biggest fan. It's great New Adult with a healthy portion of hot and sexy.
If you read the first, you'll want this one too. If you enjoy the extra hot New Adult, you want this one.
April 17, 2017
DNF at 33%
I couldn't take this book anymore. The main character is a thick, curvy girl who isn't comfortable in her skin because she has a big booty and hips. I read a dinner scene where the female wants a water and grilled chicken sandwich because she's doesn't think the dude will like her weight and says she on a diet.
The male character, of course, says "I think you're perfect the way you are. Order this double cheeseburger, cheese fries, and vanilla coke" and she's like "fuck it. I love food. I can cheat on my diet!"
No. I'm really sick of authors finally adding a big girl into their books, but they make them self conscious and only accept themselves when the male is "I like you just like this".
Without reading the rest of the book, I'm guessing that the Lucy (the girl) finally realizes her self-worth and become confident because Gabe (the male) tells her "I like my girls curvy. I don't want to hold a bag of bones at night".
It leaves a bad taste in my mouth and sends out a message that big girls shouldn't like themselves unless a man finds you attractive. As a big girl myself, I can tell you I'm not here for that.
I couldn't take this book anymore. The main character is a thick, curvy girl who isn't comfortable in her skin because she has a big booty and hips. I read a dinner scene where the female wants a water and grilled chicken sandwich because she's doesn't think the dude will like her weight and says she on a diet.
The male character, of course, says "I think you're perfect the way you are. Order this double cheeseburger, cheese fries, and vanilla coke" and she's like "fuck it. I love food. I can cheat on my diet!"
No. I'm really sick of authors finally adding a big girl into their books, but they make them self conscious and only accept themselves when the male is "I like you just like this".
Without reading the rest of the book, I'm guessing that the Lucy (the girl) finally realizes her self-worth and become confident because Gabe (the male) tells her "I like my girls curvy. I don't want to hold a bag of bones at night".
It leaves a bad taste in my mouth and sends out a message that big girls shouldn't like themselves unless a man finds you attractive. As a big girl myself, I can tell you I'm not here for that.
August 24, 2015
Monica Murphy always sucks me in with her writing. The second book in The Rules series is a fun, sexy read.
What I loved about this book:
~ The chemistry! Man, did Lucy and Gabe have that magnetic pull to each other. I loved how they tried to resist each other, but it just didn't work. Gabe was drawn to Lucy and Lucy couldn't resist.
~ Alternating POV - my favorite way to read a story!
~ The writing - so easy to read Monica Murphy's writing.
At times this story felt a bit rushed - I would have loved to read more about how Lucy and Gabe find their HEA. I felt they had a bit more to overcome with Gabe's family and that part was a bit glossed over.
But.
I loved seeing Gabe fall in love. And I loved these 2 characters falling in love with each other.
I can't wait for Tristan's book!!!
What I loved about this book:
~ The chemistry! Man, did Lucy and Gabe have that magnetic pull to each other. I loved how they tried to resist each other, but it just didn't work. Gabe was drawn to Lucy and Lucy couldn't resist.
~ Alternating POV - my favorite way to read a story!
~ The writing - so easy to read Monica Murphy's writing.
At times this story felt a bit rushed - I would have loved to read more about how Lucy and Gabe find their HEA. I felt they had a bit more to overcome with Gabe's family and that part was a bit glossed over.
But.
I loved seeing Gabe fall in love. And I loved these 2 characters falling in love with each other.
I can't wait for Tristan's book!!!
March 9, 2018
3,5
Mir hat der Schreibstil von Monica Murphy wieder total gut gefallen. Ich bin fast durch die Seiten geflogen und auch die Charaktere waren interessant. Das Konzept von dem "Sommerflirt" hat mir persönlich nicht gefallen. Deshalb gebe ich dem Buch eine 3,5 tendiere aber eher zu 4 Sternen als zu 3🤷♀️
Mir hat der Schreibstil von Monica Murphy wieder total gut gefallen. Ich bin fast durch die Seiten geflogen und auch die Charaktere waren interessant. Das Konzept von dem "Sommerflirt" hat mir persönlich nicht gefallen. Deshalb gebe ich dem Buch eine 3,5 tendiere aber eher zu 4 Sternen als zu 3🤷♀️
July 21, 2017
2,5 Sterne - hier wurden sehr sensiblen Themen sehr fahrlässig behandelt ... kann ich absolut nicht nachvollziehen aus der Sicht der Autorin. Personen sympathisch deshalb noch die 2,5 Sterne!
July 23, 2017
Nachdem ich den ersten Band "Jade & Shep" sehr gerne gelesen habe und mir dieser richtig gut gefallen hat, war ich schon sehr auf den zweiten Band der "Fair Game"-Trilogie gespannt und habe mir bei "Lucy & Gabriel" eine ähnlich gute Geschichte erhofft. Zum Glück wurde ich hierbei nicht enttäuscht, denn die Autorin konnte mich wieder einmal begeistern.
Monica Murphy konnte mich auch hier mit ihrem unvergleichbaren Schreibstil wieder einmal überzeugen. Das Setting ist super, die Figuren gut ausgearbeitet, ab und zu erlebt man sarkastische und spannende Momente und die prickelnden Augenblicke dürfen dabei natürlich auch nicht fehlen. Dazu liest sich die Geschichte wieder einmal sehr flott, sodass ich das Buch leider viel zu schnell wieder ausgelesen habe.
Da mir bereits Jade und Shep als Figuren gut gefallen haben, hatte ich hohe Erwartungen an Lucy und Gabriel, doch auch sie haben mich nicht enttäuscht, denn ich fand beide nicht nur sympathisch, sondern fand auch die Anziehungskraft zwischen ihnen gelungen und glaubwürdig, sodass ich ihre Geschichte sehr gerne verfolgt habe. Da man besonders Gabriel schon aus dem ersten Band kannte, war ich besonders gespannt, wie seine eigene Geschichte aussehen wird.
Zwar muss man sagen, dass die Geschichte ein wenig vorhersehbar ist und Monica Murphy mit dieser Liebesgeschichte und den Geheimnissen nicht das Rad neu erfunden hat, allerdings konnte mich die Geschichte mit unterhaltsamen und prickelnden Momenten überzeugen, sodass ich nicht nur die Liebesgeschichte, sondern auch das ganze Drumherum gelungen fand.
Bei dem Cover bin ich vor allem froh, dass man hierbei das Cover der US-Ausgabe übernommen hat, denn dies passt meiner Meinung nach perfekt zur Geschichte. Auch die Kurzbeschreibung hat mich direkt angesprochen, sodass ich der Geschichte sehr gerne eine Chance gegeben habe.
Kurz gesagt: "Lucy & Gabriel" ist ein würdiger, prickelnder und gut ausgearbeiteter zweiter Band der „Fair Game“-Trilogie und konnte mich mit interessanten Figuren und einem tollen Schreibstil überzeugen. Somit freue ich mich bereits auf den finalen Band "Alexandria & Tristan", der im September erscheinen wird.
Monica Murphy konnte mich auch hier mit ihrem unvergleichbaren Schreibstil wieder einmal überzeugen. Das Setting ist super, die Figuren gut ausgearbeitet, ab und zu erlebt man sarkastische und spannende Momente und die prickelnden Augenblicke dürfen dabei natürlich auch nicht fehlen. Dazu liest sich die Geschichte wieder einmal sehr flott, sodass ich das Buch leider viel zu schnell wieder ausgelesen habe.
Da mir bereits Jade und Shep als Figuren gut gefallen haben, hatte ich hohe Erwartungen an Lucy und Gabriel, doch auch sie haben mich nicht enttäuscht, denn ich fand beide nicht nur sympathisch, sondern fand auch die Anziehungskraft zwischen ihnen gelungen und glaubwürdig, sodass ich ihre Geschichte sehr gerne verfolgt habe. Da man besonders Gabriel schon aus dem ersten Band kannte, war ich besonders gespannt, wie seine eigene Geschichte aussehen wird.
Zwar muss man sagen, dass die Geschichte ein wenig vorhersehbar ist und Monica Murphy mit dieser Liebesgeschichte und den Geheimnissen nicht das Rad neu erfunden hat, allerdings konnte mich die Geschichte mit unterhaltsamen und prickelnden Momenten überzeugen, sodass ich nicht nur die Liebesgeschichte, sondern auch das ganze Drumherum gelungen fand.
Bei dem Cover bin ich vor allem froh, dass man hierbei das Cover der US-Ausgabe übernommen hat, denn dies passt meiner Meinung nach perfekt zur Geschichte. Auch die Kurzbeschreibung hat mich direkt angesprochen, sodass ich der Geschichte sehr gerne eine Chance gegeben habe.
Kurz gesagt: "Lucy & Gabriel" ist ein würdiger, prickelnder und gut ausgearbeiteter zweiter Band der „Fair Game“-Trilogie und konnte mich mit interessanten Figuren und einem tollen Schreibstil überzeugen. Somit freue ich mich bereits auf den finalen Band "Alexandria & Tristan", der im September erscheinen wird.
January 25, 2022
Another one bites the dust.
This series has 3 rich college guys who's rule was "one and done" but they are, one by one falling in love.
Gabe was the 2nd of the guys in this series and he's found the one for him in Lucy. She was house sitting for the summer and at first he thought that she was part of the privilege world he lives in. But she was actually the opposite. When the summer was over, when they thought the summer fling was done, they found out that they are at the same college. Well that's convenient. It was nice to see how another one of these guys have fallen and found love.
This series has 3 rich college guys who's rule was "one and done" but they are, one by one falling in love.
Gabe was the 2nd of the guys in this series and he's found the one for him in Lucy. She was house sitting for the summer and at first he thought that she was part of the privilege world he lives in. But she was actually the opposite. When the summer was over, when they thought the summer fling was done, they found out that they are at the same college. Well that's convenient. It was nice to see how another one of these guys have fallen and found love.
September 1, 2015
I understand what the author was trying to do here, but for me, she completely missed the mark. In her acknowledgements, she states that she isn't trying to reinvent the wheel, but instead trying to write something fun and sexy. Well, the story is entirely predictable and the characters one-dimensional and interchangeable, however I did not have any fun or find this terribly sexy.
I'll start with what I enjoyed. Ms. Murphy knows how to write a great meet-cute. So far in this series, the initial meeting of the love interests have been sexy and unique. That's about where the sexy and unique ends though.
Lucy was frustrating to no end. She spends the majority of the story wondering how Gabe could ever be interested in her, which leads me as the reader to the same questions. She was bland and overly self-conscious. Gabe wasn't great either. He is described as being ridiculously handsome over and over, but that seems to be about all Lucy sees in him, because they never get much deeper than that.
As with the previous installment in this series, things felt unresolved at the end. Gabe spends most of the book stressing over his parent's expectations of his love life, and that's all pushed to the side with one sentence, blowing it off at the end - even though Gabe avoided the relationship for that reason alone.
They spent most of the story treating each other terribly, and then suddenly they were in love? This one just didn't do it for me. Not sure if I'll bother with Tristan, because he honestly doesn't seem worth the effort.
I'll start with what I enjoyed. Ms. Murphy knows how to write a great meet-cute. So far in this series, the initial meeting of the love interests have been sexy and unique. That's about where the sexy and unique ends though.
Lucy was frustrating to no end. She spends the majority of the story wondering how Gabe could ever be interested in her, which leads me as the reader to the same questions. She was bland and overly self-conscious. Gabe wasn't great either. He is described as being ridiculously handsome over and over, but that seems to be about all Lucy sees in him, because they never get much deeper than that.
As with the previous installment in this series, things felt unresolved at the end. Gabe spends most of the book stressing over his parent's expectations of his love life, and that's all pushed to the side with one sentence, blowing it off at the end - even though Gabe avoided the relationship for that reason alone.
They spent most of the story treating each other terribly, and then suddenly they were in love? This one just didn't do it for me. Not sure if I'll bother with Tristan, because he honestly doesn't seem worth the effort.
August 30, 2015
4 GABE AND LUCY STARS
I really enjoyed this second book in the series. I liked Gabe from the start but took a little while to warm up to Lucy- her lack of self confidence wore a little thin at times so I was delighted when she showed the strong , determined side of herself. It was sad how isolated she had been. Good to see Jade and Shep. As for Tristan....hmmm....Ms Murphy has her work cut out with his character I think and I am very intrigued to learn more about the guy who , for me , is the least popular in the group.
Gabe and Lucy have a hot Summer fling that leaves them both sad when they part ways. Lucy has secrets that she is hiding and these come to the fore when she unexpectedly crosses paths with our Hero .
This was an enjoyable read. The ending was nice- it felt like a happy for now ending which works well in the context of the book. I hope that Tristan's story will finish with an epilogue that looks into the future for all three couples.
Lots of passion after a well written slow build. Just enough angst.
I really enjoyed this second book in the series. I liked Gabe from the start but took a little while to warm up to Lucy- her lack of self confidence wore a little thin at times so I was delighted when she showed the strong , determined side of herself. It was sad how isolated she had been. Good to see Jade and Shep. As for Tristan....hmmm....Ms Murphy has her work cut out with his character I think and I am very intrigued to learn more about the guy who , for me , is the least popular in the group.
Gabe and Lucy have a hot Summer fling that leaves them both sad when they part ways. Lucy has secrets that she is hiding and these come to the fore when she unexpectedly crosses paths with our Hero .
This was an enjoyable read. The ending was nice- it felt like a happy for now ending which works well in the context of the book. I hope that Tristan's story will finish with an epilogue that looks into the future for all three couples.
Lots of passion after a well written slow build. Just enough angst.
August 27, 2015
4.5 Stars
Another great book from Ms. Murphy! I loved Gabe and Lucy's story. In The Dark was sexy and full of heart!
Full review to come
*ARC received in exchange for an honest review*
Another great book from Ms. Murphy! I loved Gabe and Lucy's story. In The Dark was sexy and full of heart!
Full review to come
*ARC received in exchange for an honest review*
April 2, 2017
I enjoyed Gabe & Lucy's story
August 26, 2015
3 Stars !
Source: eARC for Honest Review Courtesy of Author and Wordsmith Publicity
In the Dark, is the second book of his series, where another of the boys has fallen. Which is quite the far drop from the one and done rule, these boys lived by.
Gabriel (Gabe) Walker is the more even keeled of the three boys. He too comes from a rich, demanding family, where they dictate what is expected of him. But Gabe, wants a different life then what they want.
Lucy comes a single mother, who learned her lessons the hard way. After this, she has instilled her philosophies with Lucy, which has made Lucy a bit gun shy where boys/men are concerned.
Lucy by chance is house sitting in Santa Monica, where she has a GQ looking neighbor whom makes it no secret of his interest in her. As Gabe has been blatantly watching Lucy for weeks, he finally takes the plunge and goes after her.
He quickly learns a few things.
1) Lucy is NOT like any other girl he has been with.
2) Lucy has insecurities
3) Lucy holds a lot to the vest.
4) She's also everything that he wants
Lucy's a bit doomed from the start, with her mama's fears, and insecurities combined with lies, assumptions.
Gabe usually goes for the blonde country club type of girl, but Lucy is curvy, Latino and sexy as hell.
"I'm on a diet." I don't get why. Really I don't. (Me neither)
Gabe has a bit of an uphill battle with Lucy's fears and insecurities.
"I like you just as you are. I wish you would too."
Since Gabe's an easy going guy, he makes up a story for Lucy that he thinks should fit her. Assuming he's right since she didn't correct him, he keeps on assuming this is true. For Lucy she first assumed that it was only going to be a summer fling so it was easy to let Gabe think one thing when the truth was another.
Now that their worlds collide after a steamy summer fling, Lucy is faced with what she's done.
Hopefully our mistakes won't come back and bite us both in the butt.
Lucy can't fight her feelings for Gabe, but she keeps digging herself a bigger hole.
I'm so scared to tell him anything personal for fear he'll dump me (Argh! Insert eye roll here)
Then more digging . ..
Telling Gabe the truth now? Could cause me to lose him. And that's a risk I'm not willing to take. (Yeah! That's not stupid at all and keeping secrets will never back fire. Insert another eye roll here)
I liked the idea of Lucy more than Lucy herself. I think it's because within this genre the insecure heroine has been overdone that I'm quick to not like these types. I'm also a strong woman and want to see and read about strong woman.
I'm the idiot who lied to him during our entire relationship. I have no one to blame bit myself. (Agree)
Often we have to learn the lesson the hard way and for Lucy that's the case. Thankfully Gabe's sweet, honest and strong and stands up for what he wants no matter the consequences. Sure he made his own mistakes but they're both young and have to learn.
Do I like this series? Yes, but both books so far have taken me a bit of time to get into them. Did I like Gabe and Lucy together? Yes, especially after Lucy gets over her personal shit. I have to admit that I have a weak spot for NA and this did fit the bill, even though this rich world is not my world. The expectations are different while their role models have nothing but cold relationships due to being a part instead of a person. It's nice to get lost in a world that I don't know and would not want to be part of. Now we have to wait for the grumpy Tristan to fall. Will I continue with this series? Absolutely, as I have to see how the mighty Tristan will fall in love and hopefully bite his opinions and words that he's so quick to give.
All quotes taken from pre-published eARC & may be altered or omitted in the final copy.
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August 16, 2017
Süße Geschichte, allerdings war mir diese nicht originell genug und die Beziehung zwischen Gabe und Lucy war mir stellenweise zu oberflächlich.
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