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Hard #2
Hard to Stay
Leaving the past behind should be easy.
For Lexi Manning, escaping her past shouldn't be so hard, but like objects in the rear view mirror, things end up being much closer than they appear.
Brad Morgan is no stranger to heartbreak. He gave his heart away once only to have it returned. This time around he's not taking no for an answer.
His friendship with Lexi might have started off in his romantic blind spot, but it quickly turned into something he never saw coming.
When the life that Lexi is running from starts to catch up to her, she is forced to make an impossible decision. Is protecting the man she loves worth running back to the life she barely escaped from the first time?
Leaving Brad is the last thing she wants to do, but she knows ultimately it will be too Hard To Stay....
For Lexi Manning, escaping her past shouldn't be so hard, but like objects in the rear view mirror, things end up being much closer than they appear.
Brad Morgan is no stranger to heartbreak. He gave his heart away once only to have it returned. This time around he's not taking no for an answer.
His friendship with Lexi might have started off in his romantic blind spot, but it quickly turned into something he never saw coming.
When the life that Lexi is running from starts to catch up to her, she is forced to make an impossible decision. Is protecting the man she loves worth running back to the life she barely escaped from the first time?
Leaving Brad is the last thing she wants to do, but she knows ultimately it will be too Hard To Stay....
347 pages, ebook
Published November 7, 2017
131 people are currently reading
149 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
March 6, 2018
I enjoy a good story about a woman in a bad relationship who is working to find her way to a better one. But, they can be tricky to make work. I really enjoyed this story of Lexi and Brad – how they meet, come to care for one another and ultimately make their way together. The controlling ex who won’t leave her alone and how Brad’s protective instinct is to take care of her was really strong in this novel. It didn’t feel superficial or even fake. It felt very real and honest. Lexi’s strength and desire to make a new life for herself really engaged me. The story had just enough drama and angst but not so much as to get in the way of the actual love story. Although this is the second in a series, it truly felt like a stand-alone. I didn’t even realize it was a series until after I finished it. I really enjoyed this one and hope to read more of S. Jones’ work in the future.
NOTE: The publisher provided me with a copy of this book for an honest review.
NOTE: The publisher provided me with a copy of this book for an honest review.
November 4, 2017
I was intrigued by the blurb I had read and knew that I need read this.
I admired Lexi’s strength and what she had to deal with and what she was running from. I loved Brad, because hello.....COP!!!!
This was a good, quick read, I wish it had been a little longer with more character development but the plot twists were pretty good.
I admired Lexi’s strength and what she had to deal with and what she was running from. I loved Brad, because hello.....COP!!!!
This was a good, quick read, I wish it had been a little longer with more character development but the plot twists were pretty good.
November 4, 2017
I was intrigued by the blurb I had read and knew that I need read this.
I admired Lexi’s strength and what she had to deal with and what she was running from. I loved Brad, because hello.....COP!!!!
This was a good, quick read, I wish it had been a little longer with more character development but the plot twists were pretty good.
Reviewed by: Dana D.
I admired Lexi’s strength and what she had to deal with and what she was running from. I loved Brad, because hello.....COP!!!!
This was a good, quick read, I wish it had been a little longer with more character development but the plot twists were pretty good.
Reviewed by: Dana D.
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November 4, 2019🎁 FREE on Amazon today (11/4/2019)! 🎁
November 16, 2017
I Voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book
I love stories like this.. Just makes you want to read and read.
Lexi has finally escaped the hell that she has been living. Her fiancé, Colton has controlled, bullied and abused her and then to top it all off she finds him in bed with someone else. Nobody believes her because he has friends all over and people in high places not even her own family believes her. So she escapes and moves to New York. And that is where she meets Brad. And even though she feels its not the right time, she can't help but be attracted to Brad.
Brad is a cop and all he wants to do is help Lexie. But Brad has his own issues. His ex just walked away from him no explanations. And he can't go through that again, but he also can't help how he feels about Lexie, he is falling for her.
Just when they are on the right track, Brad's ex comes back and Lexie misinterprets everything and then to top it off Colton has found her. How will these two people find their happy when it seems like everything is against them?
I loved this story, a second chance story that I guarantee you, will have you racing to see what will happen.
I love stories like this.. Just makes you want to read and read.
Lexi has finally escaped the hell that she has been living. Her fiancé, Colton has controlled, bullied and abused her and then to top it all off she finds him in bed with someone else. Nobody believes her because he has friends all over and people in high places not even her own family believes her. So she escapes and moves to New York. And that is where she meets Brad. And even though she feels its not the right time, she can't help but be attracted to Brad.
Brad is a cop and all he wants to do is help Lexie. But Brad has his own issues. His ex just walked away from him no explanations. And he can't go through that again, but he also can't help how he feels about Lexie, he is falling for her.
Just when they are on the right track, Brad's ex comes back and Lexie misinterprets everything and then to top it off Colton has found her. How will these two people find their happy when it seems like everything is against them?
I loved this story, a second chance story that I guarantee you, will have you racing to see what will happen.
January 2, 2018
This is my first read by this author and I was impressed by the level of maturity from her writing. This was a romantic suspense that gets a 4 star for being entertaining and so much more.
Lexi is hiding from her ex fiancé who has hurt her emotionally and physically. Brad is a member of the law who has vowed to protect. When he sets eyes on her, he knows he needs to protect her. He’s been through a relationship that he’s not gotten over from, so he’s ambivalent from wanting Lexi for more than to protect her. They will be going through some tough times before getting their HEA?
This was a story that was perfectly executed with an entertaining storyline that was never dull. It was full of drama and angst. A romantic suspense that was full of surprises until the very end. I like it when I get intrigued all the way through, it makes me want to keep on reading.
The only reason I didn’t give a 5 star was because of the characters, I need to connect with them which for some reason I didn’t.
This is the second story in the Hard series but I think it can be safely read as a standalone. Told in a dual POV with an HEA. I recommend this story.
July 22, 2018
I think this is one of the many books I got free on my kindle. That and the rating is why I read it. But it fell flat for me. The insta-love was bad and I had to skim some of it otherwise I wasn't going to finish. I definitely checked out the percentage a lot on this book.
A big problem throughout the book was telling the reader what is happening or has happened in the past instead of showing the reader. This play a big role in why I did not enjoy the characters or plot. We are told so much that has happened but I just never believe it. This was a major problem, especially for the love story. There was too much talking and going over the same things. And the jealousy was so annoying. It was all just too much that I honestly didn't care or necessarily want them together.
The characters in the book were not really developed enough for me to care about any of them. The love story was lacking and too fast. There were moments where I though some of the other police friends showed some promise for being good secondary characters but it just never got there. Other characters were pointless like Emily. We never had to see her at any point. That just took space away from the main story. Even Lexi's family just was a waste of space in the story. We are told about them but are not shown anything until the end. And by that point I don't believe what I was told because what I was shown implied something different to me.
I hate to say this but a the telling problem also took away from me with Lexi dealing with her ex. Colton is vile person who did terrible things and there is no excuse and he is a one dimensional villain who has no redeeming or human qualities in my opinion. We are told that she wants to make a new life but she so easily lets Colton talk with her when we are first shown her hiding from him. It's hard to stick with it when I am told one thing and shown another.
I'm starting to feel like I am ranting too much about this so the last thing that I will mention is that Brad didn't seem like a good police officer and his story line was weird and mainly pointless. There were things with his job and why he was working where he was working that just never followed though. And then a twist job wise that came out of no where and served no real purpose based on everything that was told and shown earlier. It could have been ok if it was more involved throughout the story.
Overall this was not the book for me. I can see how someone would like it if they wanted an easier fast read and don't care about it being some big great love story.
A big problem throughout the book was telling the reader what is happening or has happened in the past instead of showing the reader. This play a big role in why I did not enjoy the characters or plot. We are told so much that has happened but I just never believe it. This was a major problem, especially for the love story. There was too much talking and going over the same things. And the jealousy was so annoying. It was all just too much that I honestly didn't care or necessarily want them together.
The characters in the book were not really developed enough for me to care about any of them. The love story was lacking and too fast. There were moments where I though some of the other police friends showed some promise for being good secondary characters but it just never got there. Other characters were pointless like Emily. We never had to see her at any point. That just took space away from the main story. Even Lexi's family just was a waste of space in the story. We are told about them but are not shown anything until the end. And by that point I don't believe what I was told because what I was shown implied something different to me.
I hate to say this but a the telling problem also took away from me with Lexi dealing with her ex. Colton is vile person who did terrible things and there is no excuse and he is a one dimensional villain who has no redeeming or human qualities in my opinion. We are told that she wants to make a new life but she so easily lets Colton talk with her when we are first shown her hiding from him. It's hard to stick with it when I am told one thing and shown another.
I'm starting to feel like I am ranting too much about this so the last thing that I will mention is that Brad didn't seem like a good police officer and his story line was weird and mainly pointless. There were things with his job and why he was working where he was working that just never followed though. And then a twist job wise that came out of no where and served no real purpose based on everything that was told and shown earlier. It could have been ok if it was more involved throughout the story.
Overall this was not the book for me. I can see how someone would like it if they wanted an easier fast read and don't care about it being some big great love story.
November 14, 2017
Lexi yearns to escape her past, but can't. Brad has experienced heartbreak before refuses to go through it again. Brad, a cop, and Lexi begin a friendship both cherish, but something changes when neither expect it. However, that doesn't mean they aren't interested in exploring it. But when Lexi's past returns, and impacts her future, she must decide whether to let Brad go, breaking her heart and his, to protect him, or fight for the life she wants.
What if the only way to protect him is to return to the life she'd once fled from? Or does she share everything with Brad, knowing he'll do everything he can to keep her safe? If she walks away, will Brad ever understand why? Could he forgive her? Can these two ever move forward, finding closure with their respective pasts, and find happiness together?
One-click now and follow along as two people must decide if their love is worth fighting for.- By Elizabeth
What if the only way to protect him is to return to the life she'd once fled from? Or does she share everything with Brad, knowing he'll do everything he can to keep her safe? If she walks away, will Brad ever understand why? Could he forgive her? Can these two ever move forward, finding closure with their respective pasts, and find happiness together?
One-click now and follow along as two people must decide if their love is worth fighting for.- By Elizabeth
February 6, 2018
Hard to Stay is sexy and intense. Lexi meets Brad one night while she's trying to get away from her controlling, abusive jerk of an ex-fiancé. Brad's a cop, so protectiveness is written in his DNA, but it seems as if Lexi calls something even more intense from him. As Brad endeavors to keep Lexi safe, they fall fast and hard. But, there are obstacles in the form of not just Lexi's ex, but Brad's own past.
I liked Hard to Stay. Both Brad and Lexi are interesting, likable characters, especially Lexi. She's strong, so strong and I loved seeing her with Brad. He's the perfect guy for her. The pacing is spot on - lots of action, lots of steamy, intimate moments, and of course the angst of both Brad and Lexi's pasts coming back to haunt them. I'm hoping there's more to come from this series, because Hard to Stay is pretty great!
I received an ARC via NetGalley for an honest review.
I liked Hard to Stay. Both Brad and Lexi are interesting, likable characters, especially Lexi. She's strong, so strong and I loved seeing her with Brad. He's the perfect guy for her. The pacing is spot on - lots of action, lots of steamy, intimate moments, and of course the angst of both Brad and Lexi's pasts coming back to haunt them. I'm hoping there's more to come from this series, because Hard to Stay is pretty great!
I received an ARC via NetGalley for an honest review.
November 18, 2017
This is the second book in this series by this author. This is an amazing story with lots of twists and turns. The story is told in dual POV which I love, so that you can get both sides of the story. The characters are really well written. The story flows at just the right pace. I can't wait to read more from this author in the future.
Highly recommended
I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this book
Highly recommended
I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this book
May 17, 2018
Controlling
When the past 10 years have been physically and emotional abuse and you try to run away only to find someone that is determind to fight for you the trust factor is high yet the trust is there. When Brad thought he was done with relationships since his last relationship was over and she had moved on really fast but cant stop thinking of the woman he is trying to protect love to sneak his way through
When the past 10 years have been physically and emotional abuse and you try to run away only to find someone that is determind to fight for you the trust factor is high yet the trust is there. When Brad thought he was done with relationships since his last relationship was over and she had moved on really fast but cant stop thinking of the woman he is trying to protect love to sneak his way through
August 29, 2020
Good read
This is a thoroughly enjoyable romance. The way Lexi and Brad meet is unique. For a while I wasn't sure that Brad would come up to scratch. Any woman having a controlling ex is scary. When he has the woman's parents fooled and on his side is impossible to overcome. Unless you have a boyfriend like Brad.
This is a thoroughly enjoyable romance. The way Lexi and Brad meet is unique. For a while I wasn't sure that Brad would come up to scratch. Any woman having a controlling ex is scary. When he has the woman's parents fooled and on his side is impossible to overcome. Unless you have a boyfriend like Brad.
April 10, 2023
I rate this book four stars only because of the occasional "hot, steamy" scenes, which are not my personal favorites. I thought this was a well written book with interesting characters (Lexi and Brad). The author carefully dealt with the subjects of boyfriend abuse, unsupportive family members, dating history "baggage", and new love. I found this book very entertaining.
November 1, 2022
Great love story
This story kept you engaged until the end. It was a good police thriller. But the main love story was so great.Loved the happy ever after ending. Good author!
This story kept you engaged until the end. It was a good police thriller. But the main love story was so great.Loved the happy ever after ending. Good author!
November 8, 2017
4 stars
This is the first time reading this author and with that being said, I really enjoyed the book. There was a lot of action, suspense, just enough romance, and tension in this book to keep you wanting more. I enjoyed Brad as a character. His life was a roller coaster. it seemed one move and it kept tumbling down, because of the people within his life. Brad so much to do the right thing,but when he thought that he knew what was going on and was manipulated, he seemed to hit a downward spiral. His life has had not meaning and he has been walking around like a zombie. Until on going away party, a friend that needed to help a friend, and the friend being the most beautiful thing he has ever seen came into his life. Meaning of life changed for him and that is when he got his life back. Lexi ran away. Ran away from what was hurting her, but it followed her to the new city. She tried to escape and now she is trapped in a bathroom afraid to come out because life has dealt her a bad hand. When Brad walks in and asks her what is wrong, she feels that she can actually trust him. With that being said the story begins as a cop protecting a woman, but in the end it becomes more than that.
Brad and Lexi start spending time together. The more time they spend, the closer they get. But Lexi's Ex isn't going to let this go on for long. He wants Lexi and he will do what he has to do to get her. So with her ex, Brad's ex, and Lexi's issues this isn't going to be easy. There are going to be so many misunderstanding in this story that it feels like there is no way out. They will struggle, screw up, and then try to figure everything out, but will they all make it out of this story. There is a major secret at the end that through me for a loop with Lexi's secret, but when it is told pieces start to come together. Brad and Lexi work great in this book because they seem to balance each other out and with everything that goes on in this book you need a little balance here and there.
I really enjoyed how this book ended up going. The attention to each character was nice. I didn't see one character stand out more than another, I really liked seeing what was happening all around them and how it affected them during the book. The author did a great job of telling a story and completing the story for us. I think I would like to see a book with Gage and Brad's sister. I would like to see where they head down the road.
This is the first time reading this author and with that being said, I really enjoyed the book. There was a lot of action, suspense, just enough romance, and tension in this book to keep you wanting more. I enjoyed Brad as a character. His life was a roller coaster. it seemed one move and it kept tumbling down, because of the people within his life. Brad so much to do the right thing,but when he thought that he knew what was going on and was manipulated, he seemed to hit a downward spiral. His life has had not meaning and he has been walking around like a zombie. Until on going away party, a friend that needed to help a friend, and the friend being the most beautiful thing he has ever seen came into his life. Meaning of life changed for him and that is when he got his life back. Lexi ran away. Ran away from what was hurting her, but it followed her to the new city. She tried to escape and now she is trapped in a bathroom afraid to come out because life has dealt her a bad hand. When Brad walks in and asks her what is wrong, she feels that she can actually trust him. With that being said the story begins as a cop protecting a woman, but in the end it becomes more than that.
Brad and Lexi start spending time together. The more time they spend, the closer they get. But Lexi's Ex isn't going to let this go on for long. He wants Lexi and he will do what he has to do to get her. So with her ex, Brad's ex, and Lexi's issues this isn't going to be easy. There are going to be so many misunderstanding in this story that it feels like there is no way out. They will struggle, screw up, and then try to figure everything out, but will they all make it out of this story. There is a major secret at the end that through me for a loop with Lexi's secret, but when it is told pieces start to come together. Brad and Lexi work great in this book because they seem to balance each other out and with everything that goes on in this book you need a little balance here and there.
I really enjoyed how this book ended up going. The attention to each character was nice. I didn't see one character stand out more than another, I really liked seeing what was happening all around them and how it affected them during the book. The author did a great job of telling a story and completing the story for us. I think I would like to see a book with Gage and Brad's sister. I would like to see where they head down the road.
November 6, 2017
Reviewing on behalf of Amo's Book Corner.
Hard to Stay is such an amazing book - it was so hard to put down! I loved every minute of reading it! Lexi has run away from her fiance, her family, her life and her hometown; she needed to get away. Her life has been ruined by her fiance, Colton. Colton has controlled her, bullied her and abused her and she just couldn't take it anymore. Colton has friends in high places and so he believes that he can get away with anything; not even her parents believe her. And to top it all off she finds Colton in bed with her sister. So she decides to disappear. She moves from Atlanta to New York where she meets Brad the cop. Brad wants nothing more than to help Lexi but he is falling in love with her and he is terrified. His ex-girlfriend walked out on him and this is something that he swears he will never get over. But he can't help what he feels for Lexi - he's falling hard! But things go from bad to worse when his ex turns up one night and Lexi misinterprets the situation; and then things go to worse still when Colton turns up for Lexi and blackmails her into returning to Atlanta with him. How can Lexi and Brad survive all that is going on? Are they really meant to be together?
There is so much that happens throughout the course of this story that I couldn't help but say gripped to it - I just had to know what would happen next. It is written from the points of view from both Lexi and Brad so as the reader you get to see the events unfold from the points of view of both of them, which is great! Hard to Stay is such a brilliantly written story and it is one that will stay with me for a long time. I'm rating it 5 stars and if it were possible to give an higher rating I would!
Hard to Stay is such an amazing book - it was so hard to put down! I loved every minute of reading it! Lexi has run away from her fiance, her family, her life and her hometown; she needed to get away. Her life has been ruined by her fiance, Colton. Colton has controlled her, bullied her and abused her and she just couldn't take it anymore. Colton has friends in high places and so he believes that he can get away with anything; not even her parents believe her. And to top it all off she finds Colton in bed with her sister. So she decides to disappear. She moves from Atlanta to New York where she meets Brad the cop. Brad wants nothing more than to help Lexi but he is falling in love with her and he is terrified. His ex-girlfriend walked out on him and this is something that he swears he will never get over. But he can't help what he feels for Lexi - he's falling hard! But things go from bad to worse when his ex turns up one night and Lexi misinterprets the situation; and then things go to worse still when Colton turns up for Lexi and blackmails her into returning to Atlanta with him. How can Lexi and Brad survive all that is going on? Are they really meant to be together?
There is so much that happens throughout the course of this story that I couldn't help but say gripped to it - I just had to know what would happen next. It is written from the points of view from both Lexi and Brad so as the reader you get to see the events unfold from the points of view of both of them, which is great! Hard to Stay is such a brilliantly written story and it is one that will stay with me for a long time. I'm rating it 5 stars and if it were possible to give an higher rating I would!
November 6, 2017
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Hard to Stay was a good 4 star read.
Brad is an investigator with NYPD Internal affairs. He is struggling with getting his ex Emily out of his head. But when he meets Lexi things change for him.
There was something about her that pulled me in the second her big, blue eyes tangled with mine.
Lexi is trying to put her past behind her but her ex is a controlling man who comes from a very powerful family and doesn’t want to let her go.
When Lexi and Brad finally give into their attraction it was hot. A misunderstanding sends Lexi running home where Colton shows up and confronts her. From here things get more interesting. Eventually Lexi is forced to make a very hard decision, will she make the right one?
This was a great story and I loved how protective Brad was. You could feel the love that these two had for each other. The secondary characters added a great element to the story.
I really liked that this was told in dual POV, you got to see what each of them were thinking through the scenes. The ending was great, I wouldn’t mind seeing a little more from them. This was my first read from S. Jones and I look forward to reading more from this series.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. Reviewed by MAustin from Alpha Book Club
Hard to Stay was a good 4 star read.
Brad is an investigator with NYPD Internal affairs. He is struggling with getting his ex Emily out of his head. But when he meets Lexi things change for him.
There was something about her that pulled me in the second her big, blue eyes tangled with mine.
Lexi is trying to put her past behind her but her ex is a controlling man who comes from a very powerful family and doesn’t want to let her go.
When Lexi and Brad finally give into their attraction it was hot. A misunderstanding sends Lexi running home where Colton shows up and confronts her. From here things get more interesting. Eventually Lexi is forced to make a very hard decision, will she make the right one?
This was a great story and I loved how protective Brad was. You could feel the love that these two had for each other. The secondary characters added a great element to the story.
I really liked that this was told in dual POV, you got to see what each of them were thinking through the scenes. The ending was great, I wouldn’t mind seeing a little more from them. This was my first read from S. Jones and I look forward to reading more from this series.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. Reviewed by MAustin from Alpha Book Club
November 7, 2017
This maybe more like a 4.5 star rating. Anyway, this was a great book. Sure both characters have issues they have to overcome in order to find love again. Lexi, is running from a controlling and abusive ex fiance who can't take a hint. She wants to start over and live again. Find her happiness. She meets Brad and everything changes. While she's cautious, she still can't hide the feelings she has. He protects her with everything he has, which includes the NYPD and PI's. He makes her feel loved even though he's going thru things as well. He's still held up on an ex. When him and Lexi finally come together and realize what they have is beautiful, is a glorious moment. I loved Lexi. She is strong and determined. She wants to do what is right even if it means losing her love. She just want justice served in the end. There's a lot about her ex fiance she didn't know. This book is all about healing,moving on from the past and getting justice. I enjoyed Brad but I think he used his Police authority a bit much. There were times he went a little to far with beating and his connections. He was great at protecting her and showing her how much he loved her but at times he just made stupid mistakes that almost cost him Lexi. This was a great action packed, romance with so much more to the story. I'm glad I got to read this book! It was really good!
November 8, 2017
This book to me is about moving forward and being able to really move from your past. Lexi left her fiancée and his controlling ways and soon after she meets Brad. Brad also has his own issues when it comes to being open to a relationship. But he feels the need to protect her NO MATTER WHAT. He claims it is because he is a cop, but it runs deeper then that, he just doesn't realize it at first.
Lexi and Brad as a couple are so cute and great together and yet with her past Lexi can't always quite trust Brad and sometimes it was frustrating, especially knowing his past with Emily. Colton is such a terrible person and so of course he has to hunt down Lexi and try to convince her to come home and marry him like she was "supposed to". But Lexi has so much strength which is honestly what I love most about her. Brad, I don't even know what to say about him, I just love him.
I felt the book started out a little slow, but once I got into it I couldn't put it down. I loved Brad's family and co-workers and Lexi's friend Abby. They all added a nice dynamic to the book and gave us more then just them talking to each other. This is told in dual POV which I really enjoyed. Lexi wants to keep everyone away from her ex and Brad just wants to protect her...of course we get some conflict with that idea to begin with. Overall a great read with likeable characters.
Lexi and Brad as a couple are so cute and great together and yet with her past Lexi can't always quite trust Brad and sometimes it was frustrating, especially knowing his past with Emily. Colton is such a terrible person and so of course he has to hunt down Lexi and try to convince her to come home and marry him like she was "supposed to". But Lexi has so much strength which is honestly what I love most about her. Brad, I don't even know what to say about him, I just love him.
I felt the book started out a little slow, but once I got into it I couldn't put it down. I loved Brad's family and co-workers and Lexi's friend Abby. They all added a nice dynamic to the book and gave us more then just them talking to each other. This is told in dual POV which I really enjoyed. Lexi wants to keep everyone away from her ex and Brad just wants to protect her...of course we get some conflict with that idea to begin with. Overall a great read with likeable characters.
December 12, 2019
This is the second in the Hard series and I couldn't wait to read it, it definitely doesn't disappoint.
I thought it was fabulous.
After reading the first one from this author I couldn't wait to get my hands on this one.
Brad is a cop, and also Emily's ex from the first book in the series.
Lexi has run away from her home town to New York City and she's trying to escape her abusive,controlling monster of an ex Colton. She desperately needed to get away from everyone even her own family had turned against her.
Colton is a rich ass who has friends in 'high places' who can buy his way out of anything, or get people to speak up on his behalf and they do it seems.Colton can't take the fact that Lexi has left him and will stop at nothing to get her back, he doesn't care what he has to do. When Brad meets Lexi he has an overwhelming sense to protect her and keep her safe although every time he tries to something goes wrong. They both fall hard for each other, but will there love be enough?
I loved the characters in this book and that the story was told from both POV. I couldn't wait to see what was going to happen next. I also liked that the characters from the first book made alittle appearance to.
This author has an amazing writing talent and I really enjoy her style of writing and I can not wait to read the third in the series.
Thank you
I thought it was fabulous.
After reading the first one from this author I couldn't wait to get my hands on this one.
Brad is a cop, and also Emily's ex from the first book in the series.
Lexi has run away from her home town to New York City and she's trying to escape her abusive,controlling monster of an ex Colton. She desperately needed to get away from everyone even her own family had turned against her.
Colton is a rich ass who has friends in 'high places' who can buy his way out of anything, or get people to speak up on his behalf and they do it seems.Colton can't take the fact that Lexi has left him and will stop at nothing to get her back, he doesn't care what he has to do. When Brad meets Lexi he has an overwhelming sense to protect her and keep her safe although every time he tries to something goes wrong. They both fall hard for each other, but will there love be enough?
I loved the characters in this book and that the story was told from both POV. I couldn't wait to see what was going to happen next. I also liked that the characters from the first book made alittle appearance to.
This author has an amazing writing talent and I really enjoy her style of writing and I can not wait to read the third in the series.
Thank you
November 9, 2017
Sweet romance with a delectable cop!!
HARD TO STAY is the second in the Hard Series and cen most definitely be read as a standalone. This is S Jones' second novel and I must say she certainly got my attention. I found it extremely difficult to put this book down. Mainly because the writing just flowed so beautifully and the two main characters had me intrigued.
Lexi Manning is a strong woman who has escaped a relationship that saw her abused both physically (there is no scene in this book that may cause triggers) and emotionally. She has moved from Atlanta to New York to begin her life over. She meets Brad Morgan, a NYC detective, and one of the sweetest protective men I have come across in a novel. Both of these characters carry baggage from their previous relationship, and will have to acknowledge it before they can move on.
The author has put so many twists ad turns in this book that, for me, it was a complete pageturner. I needed to know what was going to happen next, so hence the reason why I couldn't put it down. It is a fast paced story told from both Lexi and Brad's POVs, which made it even more enjoyable.
I look forward to reading more from this author. A highly recommended read.
Read and Reviewed for Reading Is Our Satisfaction
FIVE STARS
HARD TO STAY is the second in the Hard Series and cen most definitely be read as a standalone. This is S Jones' second novel and I must say she certainly got my attention. I found it extremely difficult to put this book down. Mainly because the writing just flowed so beautifully and the two main characters had me intrigued.
Lexi Manning is a strong woman who has escaped a relationship that saw her abused both physically (there is no scene in this book that may cause triggers) and emotionally. She has moved from Atlanta to New York to begin her life over. She meets Brad Morgan, a NYC detective, and one of the sweetest protective men I have come across in a novel. Both of these characters carry baggage from their previous relationship, and will have to acknowledge it before they can move on.
The author has put so many twists ad turns in this book that, for me, it was a complete pageturner. I needed to know what was going to happen next, so hence the reason why I couldn't put it down. It is a fast paced story told from both Lexi and Brad's POVs, which made it even more enjoyable.
I look forward to reading more from this author. A highly recommended read.
Read and Reviewed for Reading Is Our Satisfaction
FIVE STARS
November 4, 2017
I love that this was told from dual POV as we were able to experience both sides of the characters and the dilemma they faced separately and together. Your past may be behind you, but at times it is never far away and likes to throw a curveball at you. Just ask Lexi, she is trying to escape her past and escaping she definitely needed when it came to what transpired in her past. She may be trying to move on and protecting Brad, but she has to decide one of the hardest decisions of her life yet again. Does she leave Brad and go back to a life of hell or does she stay and open up her impossible past that could potentially harm Brad? It might be too Hard to Stay or too Hard to Leave. You decide while reading this.
Yes, this review is very vague, but that is because it would give clues and insights to the story and I don’t want to ruin anything for you so all I can say is grab this book and feel the emotions as you are reading the life Lexi had and is trying to fight every day. I hope some of the secondary characters get books cause they also have some moments that want you wanting to know more on them.
Yes, this review is very vague, but that is because it would give clues and insights to the story and I don’t want to ruin anything for you so all I can say is grab this book and feel the emotions as you are reading the life Lexi had and is trying to fight every day. I hope some of the secondary characters get books cause they also have some moments that want you wanting to know more on them.
December 3, 2018
OMG! This book blew me away. I met Brad in the first book and prayed that he would get his own book. Man, this author didn't disappoint. He was so freaking awesome in this book. He was hot, charming, funny and everything I love in a male character. Him and Lexi were perfect together. I could go on and on about this book. They chemistry between these two was off the charts. I also loved his cop friends. They were awesome. I will say, I never saw that twist in the end. There were so many scenes with her ex Colton that had me on the edge of my seat. He was the villain that you loved to hate. I loved loved loved what the author did with the ending. This book is by far one of my favorite reads of all time. if you haven't read it yet, you need to right now.
November 14, 2017
Lexi is running from a past no woman should ever have. Brad is struggling to move on from a love he desperately thought was true. When they meet, the spark between them is too obvious to ignore. But, as it happens, the past has a way of reinserting itself. Will things work out between them, or will Lexi truly find it hard to stay in Brad's arms?
This book sucked me in from the very beginning and didn't let me go til it was done. I finished it in a few hours. The intrigue and action throughout made it exciting for me. I definitely would love to read Gage & Lily's story.
I voluntarily read & reviewed an ARC of this book.
This book sucked me in from the very beginning and didn't let me go til it was done. I finished it in a few hours. The intrigue and action throughout made it exciting for me. I definitely would love to read Gage & Lily's story.
I voluntarily read & reviewed an ARC of this book.
October 25, 2017
I received the ARC in exchange for a honest review.
Well this book had so many twists and turns! The beginning dragged just a bit for me but as soon as I got into it, I couldn’t put it down! Lexi’s past catches up to her and so many things go wrong which makes for a very interesting plot. The characters are so relatable and I really enjoyed reading from Brad’s point of view. I would love to see this become a series! Laney needs to have a book and Brad’s friends should each have one too. Definitely a great story here.
Well this book had so many twists and turns! The beginning dragged just a bit for me but as soon as I got into it, I couldn’t put it down! Lexi’s past catches up to her and so many things go wrong which makes for a very interesting plot. The characters are so relatable and I really enjoyed reading from Brad’s point of view. I would love to see this become a series! Laney needs to have a book and Brad’s friends should each have one too. Definitely a great story here.
February 3, 2018
I am thankful for my kindle title book hoarding problem. I had #1 of this series hidden in the masses. I got to read #1 right before #2. There was some cameo mention of characters from #1, but it wasn't necessary to read it in order to follow along. In fact, the hero of this book was honestly one of my favorite characters of book #1 , and I am glad he got a book of his own.
This review is based on the ARC received from the author and/ or the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest opinion.
This review is based on the ARC received from the author and/ or the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest opinion.
December 29, 2017
Well this book had so many twists and turns! The beginning dragged just a bit for me but as soon as I got into it, I couldn’t put it down! Lexi’s past catches up to her and so many things go wrong which makes for a very interesting plot. The characters are so relatable and I really enjoyed reading from Brad’s point of view. I would love to see this become a series! Laney needs to have a book and Brad’s friends should each have one too. Definitely a great story here.
November 14, 2017
This is certainly a very interesting story filled with characters that will make you go crazy! I loved the romance and the suspense/mystery in the story. There is a big plot twist right at the end that totally destroyed me. I honestly think this is an excellent read for those who enjoy suspense and bombs dropped on them while reading. Jones does a great job with characters in making them realistic and relatable.
I received an arc of this book and am voluntarily reviewing.
I received an arc of this book and am voluntarily reviewing.
June 8, 2018
This is the first book I have read in the series or by this author but it won't be the last I cannot wait to go get the first book. Soon after leaving her abusive ex Lexi meets Brad who is a police officer and also had some issues of his own ex. These two were cute together but I understood why Lexi was so cautious but I did feel sorry for Brad at times.While it did start a little slow once it picked up this was a wonderful read
November 7, 2017
I really enjoyed this book.
I found this story well written and the characters were great. There was so much happening that I couldn't put the book down.
Brad is an absolute gem and helps Lexi out with her bullying ex.
Colton, the ex, is just NASTY and will stop at nothing...
And Lexi? She's a sweetie who tries to protect everyone from Colton and his wicked ways!
I found this story well written and the characters were great. There was so much happening that I couldn't put the book down.
Brad is an absolute gem and helps Lexi out with her bullying ex.
Colton, the ex, is just NASTY and will stop at nothing...
And Lexi? She's a sweetie who tries to protect everyone from Colton and his wicked ways!
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