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Pretending #1
Pressing Adalyn
"Jenn Hype is a funny, snarky, brutally engaging author of sexy, angsty NA." - USA TODAY Best Selling Author Samanthe Beck
To say I’m lacking a life plan would be a gross understatement. Yeah, I ‘survived’ something horrific and still managed to graduate college, but it did me little good. Here I am three years later with no life plan, no money and no goals, moving to a big city to live with my best friend in hopes of putting my self-destructive behavior behind me and getting my life back on track.
Stacy and I met in college. She’s the quintessential good-time girl, which means she just barely has her crap together herself. If I manage to survive living with her without getting arrested or seriously embarrassing myself, then I’ll consider that a step in the right direction.
No steps in any direction have even been made before Ian enters the picture, throwing me even further off course with all his sexy charm and annoying persistence. I’ve never had a guy so incapable of taking a hint. I don’t care if he’s Stacy’s best friend and one of the city’s most eligible bachelors. Doesn’t make a difference to me that he’s a walking contradiction; his gorgeous face and unrelenting kindness won’t do him any good when it comes to me.
Even if I wanted Ian - which I don’t - I’m nowhere near ready for a serious relationship, and I swore off casual sex when I moved in with Stacy. So no matter how deliciously tempting he is, I’m not going to give in to Ian.
Really I’m not.
Due to the use of strong language and explicit adult situations, it is recommended readers be 18 or older before reading this book.
To say I’m lacking a life plan would be a gross understatement. Yeah, I ‘survived’ something horrific and still managed to graduate college, but it did me little good. Here I am three years later with no life plan, no money and no goals, moving to a big city to live with my best friend in hopes of putting my self-destructive behavior behind me and getting my life back on track.
Stacy and I met in college. She’s the quintessential good-time girl, which means she just barely has her crap together herself. If I manage to survive living with her without getting arrested or seriously embarrassing myself, then I’ll consider that a step in the right direction.
No steps in any direction have even been made before Ian enters the picture, throwing me even further off course with all his sexy charm and annoying persistence. I’ve never had a guy so incapable of taking a hint. I don’t care if he’s Stacy’s best friend and one of the city’s most eligible bachelors. Doesn’t make a difference to me that he’s a walking contradiction; his gorgeous face and unrelenting kindness won’t do him any good when it comes to me.
Even if I wanted Ian - which I don’t - I’m nowhere near ready for a serious relationship, and I swore off casual sex when I moved in with Stacy. So no matter how deliciously tempting he is, I’m not going to give in to Ian.
Really I’m not.
Due to the use of strong language and explicit adult situations, it is recommended readers be 18 or older before reading this book.
First published September 5, 2015
About the author
Jenn Hype
9 books505 followersWhat's up world - I'm Jenn Hype.
Author, mother, wife, singer/songwriter, aspiring comedian - I wear many hats. Some of them fit, some of them look ridiculous, and all of them are fun. Life's too short to take anything too seriously, so I don't.
Sarcasm is my go-to, especially when it's most inappropriate. Need someone to make an uncomfortable situation even more awkward? I'm the girl for the job.
I'm ridiculously A.D.D. and I own it. I have a serious addiction to ecards and the majority of my Pinterest account is dedicated to them. The key to my heart is glitter and caffeine - my needs are basic.
I'm a bookaholic and I crush hard on my book boyfriends and their authors. Some might call me obsessive, but I disagree. That word really doesn't do justice to how crazy I get when it comes to something I'm passionate about. I'm not afraid to go fangirl on you, so don't test me.
Anything else you want to know, feel free to ask. I'm an open book, and I love to hear from readers
Author, mother, wife, singer/songwriter, aspiring comedian - I wear many hats. Some of them fit, some of them look ridiculous, and all of them are fun. Life's too short to take anything too seriously, so I don't.
Sarcasm is my go-to, especially when it's most inappropriate. Need someone to make an uncomfortable situation even more awkward? I'm the girl for the job.
I'm ridiculously A.D.D. and I own it. I have a serious addiction to ecards and the majority of my Pinterest account is dedicated to them. The key to my heart is glitter and caffeine - my needs are basic.
I'm a bookaholic and I crush hard on my book boyfriends and their authors. Some might call me obsessive, but I disagree. That word really doesn't do justice to how crazy I get when it comes to something I'm passionate about. I'm not afraid to go fangirl on you, so don't test me.
Anything else you want to know, feel free to ask. I'm an open book, and I love to hear from readers
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 132 reviews
October 12, 2015
***4 Stars...especially for one of the best secondary characters,ever....Stacy...God,I just loved that Girl !! ***
3 years after finishing college Adalyn is a bit of a lost soul.She drifts from job to job and feels unsettled in her life.
So she decides to move to New York and live with her best friend from college,Stacy
Adalyn suffered a very traumatic event while at college and as a result is pretty closed off,not wanting to get close to anyone.
Enter Ian,a friend of Stacy'sEveryone would kill to have an Ian in their lives,I'm sure...
Ian is good looking,with a successful career but he also has issues from his past.When he was young he was considered a bit of a geek and suffered from low self esteem...not helped by a bitch of an ex ...
Ian recognizes something in Adalyn and although she tries to push him away,he won't give up on her
The events from her past are tragic and brutal and reading it made me understand her behaviour more.
Now,I mentioned Stacy at the beginning and I can't stress enough about what an amazing character she is.Whenever she appeared in this book I had a huge smile on my face.She's definitely one of the best secondary characters I've read about.The scene where she was drunk with the cop was priceless!!
I really enjoyed this and Stacy's story is next...can't wait!!
Arc provided from Author in exchange for an honest review
3 years after finishing college Adalyn is a bit of a lost soul.She drifts from job to job and feels unsettled in her life.
So she decides to move to New York and live with her best friend from college,Stacy
Adalyn suffered a very traumatic event while at college and as a result is pretty closed off,not wanting to get close to anyone.
Enter Ian,a friend of Stacy'sEveryone would kill to have an Ian in their lives,I'm sure...
Ian is good looking,with a successful career but he also has issues from his past.When he was young he was considered a bit of a geek and suffered from low self esteem...not helped by a bitch of an ex ...
Ian recognizes something in Adalyn and although she tries to push him away,he won't give up on her
The events from her past are tragic and brutal and reading it made me understand her behaviour more.
Now,I mentioned Stacy at the beginning and I can't stress enough about what an amazing character she is.Whenever she appeared in this book I had a huge smile on my face.She's definitely one of the best secondary characters I've read about.The scene where she was drunk with the cop was priceless!!
I really enjoyed this and Stacy's story is next...can't wait!!
Arc provided from Author in exchange for an honest review
October 9, 2015
3 Stars
*ARC provided by author in exchange for honest review*
This is a somewhat difficult review for me to write because there are aspects of this story I enjoyed and aspects that I found frustrating. What I liked first and foremost is the inner strength Adalyn discovered within herself and her ability to overcome an extremely trumatic event in her life as well as her desire to help others by sharing her story. I also have to say we all need a friend like Stacy in our lives, she was a great supporting character.
I have to say the whole mystery of what could have happened in Adalyn's past was pretty easy to figure out, and by dragging her secret out for so much of the book I felt the story became repetitive. Her ultra bitchy attitude and the instant switch to the almost perfect persona was also hard to take after it happened over and over. I am never a fan of drama for the sake of drama, and again that seemed to be an almost constant theme. I can look past a couple that seems to fall madly and passionately in love, I mean I've known people to do this in real life, so when there is such a huge shift in the way a MC behaves, such as Ian's behavior at the Gala I consider it simply unnesassay drama. Adalyn 's response was so far over the top and the explanations for her reaction just didn't make a lot of sense to me, but for her to just again flip a switch after she literally flips out was just so unbelievable to me. In the end I think this was what made it difficult to connect with both of the main characters.
Thank you to the author for generously providing a copy of her book!
*ARC provided by author in exchange for honest review*
This is a somewhat difficult review for me to write because there are aspects of this story I enjoyed and aspects that I found frustrating. What I liked first and foremost is the inner strength Adalyn discovered within herself and her ability to overcome an extremely trumatic event in her life as well as her desire to help others by sharing her story. I also have to say we all need a friend like Stacy in our lives, she was a great supporting character.
I have to say the whole mystery of what could have happened in Adalyn's past was pretty easy to figure out, and by dragging her secret out for so much of the book I felt the story became repetitive. Her ultra bitchy attitude and the instant switch to the almost perfect persona was also hard to take after it happened over and over. I am never a fan of drama for the sake of drama, and again that seemed to be an almost constant theme. I can look past a couple that seems to fall madly and passionately in love, I mean I've known people to do this in real life, so when there is such a huge shift in the way a MC behaves, such as Ian's behavior at the Gala I consider it simply unnesassay drama. Adalyn 's response was so far over the top and the explanations for her reaction just didn't make a lot of sense to me, but for her to just again flip a switch after she literally flips out was just so unbelievable to me. In the end I think this was what made it difficult to connect with both of the main characters.
Thank you to the author for generously providing a copy of her book!
October 1, 2015
That was quite the ride. Adalyn was a real tough cookie for me to fall in love with at the first of this story. She came off as such an obnoxiously nasty and rude young woman, that I wasn't quite sure I'd come around to liking her. She kept alluding to her past, so I knew something big would unfold, and let us know why she was so hard, and intentionally pushed people away by being rude to them. And big it was. Adalyn had some really horrific stuff happen to her in her past, and I did eventually turn sympathetic towards her, and definitely warmed up to her character.
Ian does everything in his power to try to win Adalyn over. It takes a ton of work on his part, but Ian being the sweetheart he is, totally wins her in the end. Ian had some really bad juju in his past as well. It was extremely satisfying when Ian's ex got what was coming to her. It was sweet seeing Ian and Adalyn come together and finally and get the happy ending they both deserve.
November 23, 2015
Pressing Adalyn (Pretending #1) Adalyn is on the mend. She’s just a sweetie … you know hard colorful exterior with a soft interior. In the beginning, I experienced a real love/hate relationship with this character. Lets face it, if you read the book Adalyn and Stacy are real potty mouths and not of the usual sort. These two characters even had me giving an “Oh my” every other page, but that tough exterior portrayed by the leading lady was just that, a hard shell that helped her cope with the tragedy of her past. Trust me it is a doozy and worth finishing the story.Foul mouthed, snarky and with a general bad attitude Adalyn’s plan almost worked. Her illusion of an ill tempered harpy worked to keep everyone away except dear sweet Ian. Who honestly is the most patient leading male I've ever read. Ian is the quintessential good looking good guy. He isn't the extra cocky alpha male I’m used to reading about but he exudes a different type of strength that complimented the female lead’s intense in your face attitude. Ian is Adalyn’s ‘Clark Kent’ and every young woman deserves at least one in her life.Even though Ian Superman it alot, that does't mean that he didn't have his own brand of swoon worthy swag. For those angst lovers like myself the author didn't forget us. So, there are ex-lover face-offs and a minion like sibling that help to move the story forward.Overall rating is 3.5ARC gracious provided by the author via Story Cartel
October 2, 2015
This was a great book to read. Adalyn was a tough cookie but you knew something happened to her to keep her distance from people. Ian was very sweet and patient but he too had some hidden issues. There were times I had tears in my eye and times I felt my heart pounding. Then I was ready to slap someone. Adalyn's friend Stacy was awesome. They had a great/hate/love friendship. I can't wait for Stacys story. I truly loved this book. Well done Jenn!! And thank you for allowing me to be an arc reader.
Btw. I hope Carrie gets her story too!
Btw. I hope Carrie gets her story too!
September 27, 2015
Such a good book. I love the story line and easily fell in love with the characters.
October 1, 2015
3 Stars
I was graciously given an ARC of this book and was very excited to read it! There were parts of this story that I liked and other parts that were just not for me or rather my reading preferences. I found that I had a hard time connecting with the h on any level. She had potential for a great backstory but for me personally, I would have liked to have seen it played out in a different fashion and again just my own personal feelings. The H was a great guy but because I am not an "insta-love" girl, I just had a very hard time to emotionally connect with the 2 of them.
I am curious to see how Stacey's book will play out in the future!
This is a new author who I think has some great potential and with time comes growth and I wish her nothing but the best in the future:)
I was graciously given an ARC of this book and was very excited to read it! There were parts of this story that I liked and other parts that were just not for me or rather my reading preferences. I found that I had a hard time connecting with the h on any level. She had potential for a great backstory but for me personally, I would have liked to have seen it played out in a different fashion and again just my own personal feelings. The H was a great guy but because I am not an "insta-love" girl, I just had a very hard time to emotionally connect with the 2 of them.
I am curious to see how Stacey's book will play out in the future!
This is a new author who I think has some great potential and with time comes growth and I wish her nothing but the best in the future:)
September 10, 2015
This book is so good! There was a mix of emotions throughout the entire thing. I was laughing, crying and at times scared! Perfect combo of humor, suspense and romance. Can't wait to see what is next!
October 5, 2015
5 "I like his style" STARS
Ahhhhhh, I loved it! What a sweet easy read and a swoon~worthy male who knows how to rock a suit! Yeah, sexy-adorable Ian. Adalyn meets him through her best friend/roommate Stacy. Oh how I loved her. She added all of the laughter in this story. She's loud mouthed, has no filter, bossy, and is good at straightening Adalyn's ass out. Stacy and Ian have known each other for a long time and are very close. When Adalyn first sees him, she is very attracted to him but in true Adalyn form she must be rude to push him away. It's not truly who she is but the result of a traumatizing occurence.
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This man sure does take a lot of shit from Adalyn. Lucky for her because he finds her worth it. He wants to know what makes her push others away, he sees something in her eyes that tells him she's been hurt and what others see isn't the real Adalyn. He is willing to wait it out as long as it takes because he too is attracted like he's never been before to another woman.
"Aw, is princess afraid of losing control? Are you so uptight that you can't let yourself have even a small amount of fun?
Must be hard walking around with that giant stick up your ass all the time. Probably for the best. Wouldn't want you to let your guard down and end up doing something crazy, like being nice for once."
It takes a lot of work for Ian to break down the ice queen, what a bitch she was, I mean this man put up with her being extremely cruel!
When she finally starts to come around Ian shares a part of himself that only two others know about, Stacy and his sister. Let me tell you, I couldn't stop grinning, I found him even more sexy. *squeal*
Stupid Ian. This was all his fault. With his stupid gorgeous body, wrapped tight in those dark denim jeans and a plain black t-shirt that looked like it had been painted on. With his stupid
beautiful eyes that made me want to reveal all my secret desires and beg him to take me to bed. With his stupid face that I wanted to lick as if he were a delicious ice cream cone.
Yep, me too!
*****ARC KINDLY PROVIDED BY AUTHOR*****
Thank you Jenn
Ahhhhhh, I loved it! What a sweet easy read and a swoon~worthy male who knows how to rock a suit! Yeah, sexy-adorable Ian. Adalyn meets him through her best friend/roommate Stacy. Oh how I loved her. She added all of the laughter in this story. She's loud mouthed, has no filter, bossy, and is good at straightening Adalyn's ass out. Stacy and Ian have known each other for a long time and are very close. When Adalyn first sees him, she is very attracted to him but in true Adalyn form she must be rude to push him away. It's not truly who she is but the result of a traumatizing occurence.
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This man sure does take a lot of shit from Adalyn. Lucky for her because he finds her worth it. He wants to know what makes her push others away, he sees something in her eyes that tells him she's been hurt and what others see isn't the real Adalyn. He is willing to wait it out as long as it takes because he too is attracted like he's never been before to another woman.
"Aw, is princess afraid of losing control? Are you so uptight that you can't let yourself have even a small amount of fun?
Must be hard walking around with that giant stick up your ass all the time. Probably for the best. Wouldn't want you to let your guard down and end up doing something crazy, like being nice for once."
It takes a lot of work for Ian to break down the ice queen, what a bitch she was, I mean this man put up with her being extremely cruel!
When she finally starts to come around Ian shares a part of himself that only two others know about, Stacy and his sister. Let me tell you, I couldn't stop grinning, I found him even more sexy. *squeal*
Stupid Ian. This was all his fault. With his stupid gorgeous body, wrapped tight in those dark denim jeans and a plain black t-shirt that looked like it had been painted on. With his stupid
beautiful eyes that made me want to reveal all my secret desires and beg him to take me to bed. With his stupid face that I wanted to lick as if he were a delicious ice cream cone.
Yep, me too!
*****ARC KINDLY PROVIDED BY AUTHOR*****
Thank you Jenn
August 3, 2017
No. Just... no.
Shelved as 'freebie-to-read'
July 28, 2017
November 23, 2015
**TARA'S REVIEW**
And so began the story of Adalyn, a traumatic event in her past had scarred her, that is until Ian comes into her life. Both Adalyn and Ian have a secret from their past that causes friction between them.
With her best friend Stacy by her side, Adalyn tries to navigate away from her past and toward her future.
When I was first approached about reading this book, the blurb really caught my eye. The plot of the story was intriguing and I am a sucker for new authors.
There were many things about this book I enjoyed and some things that I struggled with. The storyline was great, it peaked my interest and kept me engaged throughout. It could have been made longer to extend the story and create more of a back story on the two main characters. I found it hard to connect with them, but easily connected with the secondary character Stacy. The bond between Adalyn and Stacy was sweet and sassy all rolled in one.
There were a few holes that I found pulled me away from the story, I found myself rereading a page or two to make sure I didn't miss something. Expanding on the story and covering all scenarios would have cleared this up for me. I chalk this up to this being the authors first book and possibly not having seasoned beta readers to help point those items out.
Now I am by no means dogging the book, as I said I did like it, I just feel the story had so much potential and fell a little flat for me. I look forward to watching this author for future books and seeing how she expands as an writer.
*This book does deal with a very serious matter that can be a trigger for some readers and should be noted as so.*
And so began the story of Adalyn, a traumatic event in her past had scarred her, that is until Ian comes into her life. Both Adalyn and Ian have a secret from their past that causes friction between them.
With her best friend Stacy by her side, Adalyn tries to navigate away from her past and toward her future.
When I was first approached about reading this book, the blurb really caught my eye. The plot of the story was intriguing and I am a sucker for new authors.
There were many things about this book I enjoyed and some things that I struggled with. The storyline was great, it peaked my interest and kept me engaged throughout. It could have been made longer to extend the story and create more of a back story on the two main characters. I found it hard to connect with them, but easily connected with the secondary character Stacy. The bond between Adalyn and Stacy was sweet and sassy all rolled in one.
There were a few holes that I found pulled me away from the story, I found myself rereading a page or two to make sure I didn't miss something. Expanding on the story and covering all scenarios would have cleared this up for me. I chalk this up to this being the authors first book and possibly not having seasoned beta readers to help point those items out.
Now I am by no means dogging the book, as I said I did like it, I just feel the story had so much potential and fell a little flat for me. I look forward to watching this author for future books and seeing how she expands as an writer.
*This book does deal with a very serious matter that can be a trigger for some readers and should be noted as so.*
July 25, 2016
Holy sh*t, I'm Adalyn. Or was Adalyn or maybe still a little bit of Adalyn. Either way, I absolutely loved this book and connected so much to Adalyn. I spent many years of my life being hell on wheels, intentionally. Being just enough of a b!tch to keep people at a distance but fun enough to have friends. I feel for the girl. And then her whole world gets knocked upside down by one super sexy, super sweet closet-nerd. Hellooooo Ian Drake! Ahhh.....le sigh.... Give me a moment.
Ok, I'm back! I loved Ian instantly and then as the book progressed I found myself loving him even more as his true self was revealed. Half way through the book I caught myself telling Adalyn not to screw this up but had a sneaking suspicion she would anyway. Womp womp. Spoiler alert, just kidding. I won't say either way. You just have to read it to find out for yourself. I'll wait while you one-click it real quick.
Seriously, do it and then come back for the rest of my review. Now. Go. Just kidding...kind of. Not really.
The book takes you through all the feelings! And that makes me love this book even more for it. The supporting characters are well written and not lost in the shuffle whatsoever. It made me excited for books 2 & 3 to find out more about them. Surprises in the story line and surprise revelations about the characters give this book a freshness that you sometimes miss from reading similar a books over and over.
Love this. Love Adalyn. Love Ian. Love Jenn Hype. Love everything.
Ok, I'm back! I loved Ian instantly and then as the book progressed I found myself loving him even more as his true self was revealed. Half way through the book I caught myself telling Adalyn not to screw this up but had a sneaking suspicion she would anyway. Womp womp. Spoiler alert, just kidding. I won't say either way. You just have to read it to find out for yourself. I'll wait while you one-click it real quick.
Seriously, do it and then come back for the rest of my review. Now. Go. Just kidding...kind of. Not really.
The book takes you through all the feelings! And that makes me love this book even more for it. The supporting characters are well written and not lost in the shuffle whatsoever. It made me excited for books 2 & 3 to find out more about them. Surprises in the story line and surprise revelations about the characters give this book a freshness that you sometimes miss from reading similar a books over and over.
Love this. Love Adalyn. Love Ian. Love Jenn Hype. Love everything.
October 8, 2017
"I didn't fear taking a risk on him...I feared he would end up regretting taking a risk on me."
*****5 'she-devil' STARS*****
Jenn Hype brings readers a sarcastic and emotionally touching story in Pressing Adalyn. A devastating incident has caused Adalyn Montgomery to prefer being a 'wall fly" as opposed to shining in the limelight. Meeting Ian Drake with his persistence nature, has helped to mend Adalyn's heart and self worth. The chemistry these characters share is off the charts! Their back and forth banter is absolutely adorable. 'Pressing Adalyn,' Ian has caused the walls she's built around her heart to crumble. Will she regret letting him in? Does she once again find herself a shell of the person she wishes to be?
March 9, 2016
Whoa - Adalyn has issues coming out her, well everything.
Unemployed, just moved to a new city to stay with her college room mate and a complete bitch what sort of first impression could she leave on the smart, sophisticated and obviously successful Ian - surprisingly a good one.
After an interesting first encounter, followed up by more just like it both Ian and Adalyn open themselves up to each other only to realise that they are more alike than they'd like to admit - both hurt by the past and carrying more baggage than Fed-ex!
The best thing about Pressing Adalyn was the supporting cast - Stacy, Adalyn's best friend and room mate is an absolute scream and kept the book moving at a fantastic pace (personally I can't wait to read her story!)
Unemployed, just moved to a new city to stay with her college room mate and a complete bitch what sort of first impression could she leave on the smart, sophisticated and obviously successful Ian - surprisingly a good one.
After an interesting first encounter, followed up by more just like it both Ian and Adalyn open themselves up to each other only to realise that they are more alike than they'd like to admit - both hurt by the past and carrying more baggage than Fed-ex!
The best thing about Pressing Adalyn was the supporting cast - Stacy, Adalyn's best friend and room mate is an absolute scream and kept the book moving at a fantastic pace (personally I can't wait to read her story!)
November 13, 2015
A Great Mix of Humor and Romance
I really enjoyed this read. It is definitely not for the faint of heart or people sensitive to foul language. I thought it was a hoot. I have to admit though that at first I didn't care for Adalyn all that much, she was kind of off-putting, but as I got to know her better I began to understand her better and really accept her. I totally loved Ian, and I really found myself loving Stacy. The author has written a very good story with a great plot, tons of humor, romance and suspense. I definitely will be looking out for more from this author, and recommend you give this one a try. I was given a complimentary copy of this book for an honest review.
I really enjoyed this read. It is definitely not for the faint of heart or people sensitive to foul language. I thought it was a hoot. I have to admit though that at first I didn't care for Adalyn all that much, she was kind of off-putting, but as I got to know her better I began to understand her better and really accept her. I totally loved Ian, and I really found myself loving Stacy. The author has written a very good story with a great plot, tons of humor, romance and suspense. I definitely will be looking out for more from this author, and recommend you give this one a try. I was given a complimentary copy of this book for an honest review.
May 23, 2017
"I won't give up until you are writhing underneath my body, spread out on my bed, screaming my name in pleasure."
I Feel tricked, this was not an Erotica LOL
Regardless it's still a good book, there were some great issues touched on.
I didn't feel the love between the Ian and Adalyn, but I still loved the characters.
March 30, 2016
I enjoyed reading Adalyn and Ian's story, watching both be able to grow and accept love was amazing to read. The dual POVs are written smooth and flawlessly. The characters are funny, loving, caring and relatable. I enjoyed the secondary character, the added to the story, weren't overtaking or lacking. Great emotional read.
Review by Raychel
Review by Raychel
August 7, 2016
At first, I was not a fan of Adalyn, she was so witchy for no reason. Seeing her story evolve, made me see what a strong woman she is. Ian was a sweet, nerdy man who saw through Adalyn's facade. They have both been hurt in the past and have trouble moving on, but together they heal each other.
August 5, 2016
Loved this book
This book had me laughing at times and had me in tears at others. The loved the chemistry between Ian and Adalyn. I will definitely be reading more from this author.
This book had me laughing at times and had me in tears at others. The loved the chemistry between Ian and Adalyn. I will definitely be reading more from this author.
August 28, 2017
4 Stars
Pressing Adalyn is the first book in the Pretending series by Jenn Hype. It is a sexy, angsty NA romance- full of drama, emotions, erotic and sexy situations, lots of swearing, and humour.
Adalyn is a little lost. She has drifted through her life, with no particular direction, goal or plan. She’s pretty much treading water, bouncing from job to job as she doesn’t seem to be able to keep one for very long, and feels unsettled and unsatisfied with her life. She has travelled across states, to New York, and moved in with her friend Stacey. She and Stacy have an unusual and complicated relationship, but it’s a strong and loyal friendship. She experienced something truly traumatic a few years previously, which has caused her to become abrasive, closed off, cold, and obnoxious. She definitely isn’t ready for a relationship, even going so far as to give up casual sex- pushing people away with her rude and obnoxious attitude.
I found Adalyn a little too abrasive and disagreeable in the beginning of the story. I was sure I wouldn’t end up liking her at all. I knew something major must have happened to her and as the story unfolds we discover exactly what this was. It did explain her behaviour, but I still found it hard to connect with her. But, by the end of the story she had won me over a lot more than I thought she could have done. I really felt for her and what she had been through. I also had to give her credit for growing and evolving as the story progressed. This is in no small part due to Ms. Hype’s expert word-smithing skills.
Ian is Stacy’s gorgeous, successful, charming and quite persistent, best friend. He’s so dreamy, so sexy- with a real heart of gold. Ian has had his own issues that have plagued him, and a horrible and dislikeable ex that caused him pain. He seems to be able to see through the façade that Adalyn presents to the world- seeing her for who she truly is. She really does everything she can to push him away, but he’s determined and refuses to give up. Will he finally melt the ice around Adalyn’s heart and win her over? Will Adalyn find some much needed direction and stability in her life?
This story had a lot happening in it. It was really well written and definitely held my attention, even though I didn’t like Adalyn to begin with. She did grow on me though, and by the end I was cheering her on. Ian is the perfect book boyfriend- such a sweetheart. But, I think the real scene stealer in this story is Stacy. She’s such a bold, funny, foul-mouthed and larger-than-life character. I loved the funny antics and banter that seemed to occur whenever she was around.
The story really is worth your time to read. It will surprise you!
Thank you, Ms. Hype!
Pressing Adalyn is the first book in the Pretending series by Jenn Hype. It is a sexy, angsty NA romance- full of drama, emotions, erotic and sexy situations, lots of swearing, and humour.
Adalyn is a little lost. She has drifted through her life, with no particular direction, goal or plan. She’s pretty much treading water, bouncing from job to job as she doesn’t seem to be able to keep one for very long, and feels unsettled and unsatisfied with her life. She has travelled across states, to New York, and moved in with her friend Stacey. She and Stacy have an unusual and complicated relationship, but it’s a strong and loyal friendship. She experienced something truly traumatic a few years previously, which has caused her to become abrasive, closed off, cold, and obnoxious. She definitely isn’t ready for a relationship, even going so far as to give up casual sex- pushing people away with her rude and obnoxious attitude.
I found Adalyn a little too abrasive and disagreeable in the beginning of the story. I was sure I wouldn’t end up liking her at all. I knew something major must have happened to her and as the story unfolds we discover exactly what this was. It did explain her behaviour, but I still found it hard to connect with her. But, by the end of the story she had won me over a lot more than I thought she could have done. I really felt for her and what she had been through. I also had to give her credit for growing and evolving as the story progressed. This is in no small part due to Ms. Hype’s expert word-smithing skills.
Ian is Stacy’s gorgeous, successful, charming and quite persistent, best friend. He’s so dreamy, so sexy- with a real heart of gold. Ian has had his own issues that have plagued him, and a horrible and dislikeable ex that caused him pain. He seems to be able to see through the façade that Adalyn presents to the world- seeing her for who she truly is. She really does everything she can to push him away, but he’s determined and refuses to give up. Will he finally melt the ice around Adalyn’s heart and win her over? Will Adalyn find some much needed direction and stability in her life?
This story had a lot happening in it. It was really well written and definitely held my attention, even though I didn’t like Adalyn to begin with. She did grow on me though, and by the end I was cheering her on. Ian is the perfect book boyfriend- such a sweetheart. But, I think the real scene stealer in this story is Stacy. She’s such a bold, funny, foul-mouthed and larger-than-life character. I loved the funny antics and banter that seemed to occur whenever she was around.
The story really is worth your time to read. It will surprise you!
Thank you, Ms. Hype!
July 19, 2017
4.25 Let me love you Stars
I have a soft spot for this book. I don't know if it's the bitchy main character or the ridiculously sweet and nerdy love interest, but either way I love this book.
Yes, this is a reread for me. I couldn't help it. Sometimes you find that sweet book that just calls to you. Sometimes you find a main character you feel like you know and a love interest that is too good to be true. Except he's not too good because everyone has flaws.
Adalyn is the bitchy main character that you hate to love. You find yourself asking how she can get much bitchier--thinking it isn't possible--but then she does something new and different and you're left nodding and going 'okay, I can see it'. And you totally get her reactions. You get why she responds the way she does because, deep down, she reacts the EXACT way you wish you could react when forced into situations you don't want to be in. She's your inner bitch and you love her.
Ian. Swoon. I just love Ian. He's confident, attractive, kind, and a total nerd. That nerdiness gives him a more human feel. He isn't just some rich guy who thinks he's better than everyone. Ian has just enough self-doubt to make him lovable. But he's kind enough and loving enough to make you want one for yourself. Just sayin' I'm super jealous of Adalyn.
This sweet Rom-Com isn't without it's serious issues. Very quickly you see that Adalyn's attitude is a defense mechanism. You know she's running from something, but you don't know what. That drives the story. Well, and the love interest, obviously. But I found myself wanting to know what happened to Adalyn. Why is she pushing everyone away. The only person to stick with her was her BFF, Stacy.
And oh Stacy does not disappoint. She's the snarky, in your face BFF you wish you had. Or you want to be. Either way, Stacy is a barrel of laughs in this and she keeps Adalyn grounded.
I'm excited to see what happens to Stacy in book 2 of the Pretending series! Thanks, Jenn Hype, for giving me such fun characters.
I have a soft spot for this book. I don't know if it's the bitchy main character or the ridiculously sweet and nerdy love interest, but either way I love this book.
Yes, this is a reread for me. I couldn't help it. Sometimes you find that sweet book that just calls to you. Sometimes you find a main character you feel like you know and a love interest that is too good to be true. Except he's not too good because everyone has flaws.
Adalyn is the bitchy main character that you hate to love. You find yourself asking how she can get much bitchier--thinking it isn't possible--but then she does something new and different and you're left nodding and going 'okay, I can see it'. And you totally get her reactions. You get why she responds the way she does because, deep down, she reacts the EXACT way you wish you could react when forced into situations you don't want to be in. She's your inner bitch and you love her.
Ian. Swoon. I just love Ian. He's confident, attractive, kind, and a total nerd. That nerdiness gives him a more human feel. He isn't just some rich guy who thinks he's better than everyone. Ian has just enough self-doubt to make him lovable. But he's kind enough and loving enough to make you want one for yourself. Just sayin' I'm super jealous of Adalyn.
This sweet Rom-Com isn't without it's serious issues. Very quickly you see that Adalyn's attitude is a defense mechanism. You know she's running from something, but you don't know what. That drives the story. Well, and the love interest, obviously. But I found myself wanting to know what happened to Adalyn. Why is she pushing everyone away. The only person to stick with her was her BFF, Stacy.
And oh Stacy does not disappoint. She's the snarky, in your face BFF you wish you had. Or you want to be. Either way, Stacy is a barrel of laughs in this and she keeps Adalyn grounded.
I'm excited to see what happens to Stacy in book 2 of the Pretending series! Thanks, Jenn Hype, for giving me such fun characters.
March 23, 2018
I really enjoyed this story.
I found it a little difficult to get into at first as Adalyn is a little too OTT! Having said that, she mellows slightly and I then found her rather amusing. Her introduction to her bestie, Stacy, was funny and I really enjoyed Stacy's character too. Their conversations throughout are very amusing.
Ian. What do I say about Ian? He's just about perfect, despite his hang-ups. He and Adalyn are just made for one another!
It's well written. And I've just bought the next book! :)
I found it a little difficult to get into at first as Adalyn is a little too OTT! Having said that, she mellows slightly and I then found her rather amusing. Her introduction to her bestie, Stacy, was funny and I really enjoyed Stacy's character too. Their conversations throughout are very amusing.
Ian. What do I say about Ian? He's just about perfect, despite his hang-ups. He and Adalyn are just made for one another!
It's well written. And I've just bought the next book! :)
Want to read
August 13, 2017Amazon Freebie 7/27/17
October 4, 2017
I bought the whole "Pretending" series, so I read them all. If you like annoying people doing annoying things then this is a book you'll love. I found these characters really hard to relate to because there was no character development. They were just being dumb, which can be entertaining I guess. The dialogue makes you think these are teenagers and there isn't much of a connect between the main characters. I get that she's been through a lot but why would anyone put up with it?
May 7, 2016
Meet Adalyn.
She's broke and jobless.
She's also beautiful, sassy, controlled.
She's just moved in with her best friend Stacy in New York.
She needs work, but has no idea what she wants to do yet.
Nothing appeals to her.
Her party animal bestie wants her to come out with her, to a new club.
She can't think of anything worse.
Men.....Never, a no go zone.
Relationships....Forget it.
Her heart, her body, her soul is closed off.
She will never let anyone in.
No way.
That is until him.
Meet Ian.
He's gorgeous, drool worthy.
His smile....To die for.
A successful businessman, rich in his own right.
He's created his empire.
But he's single.
Relationships....Not a chance.
He'll guard his heart, walls forever erected.
His past has determined that.
Until he meets her.
Welcome to Adalyn and Ians world.
A world of secrets revealed.
A world where trust will be pushed to the limits.
A world where unfamiliar emotions will surface.
A world of insecurities that will need to be faced head on.
A world where pain and comfort go hand in hand.
Wow, just wow. This novel had me captivated from the prologue. I honestly couldn't put it down.
It's raw, confronting.....It's heartbreakingly beautiful. It took my breath away. I loved, loved, loved it.
The characters.....Omfg don't even....I fell in love with them all instantly. The banter between them had me laughing my butt off and on the flip side crying my eyes out.
I loved Adalyn and her strength and determination.
I adored Ian and his warmth, understanding and vulnerability.
But the kicker for me.....Stacy....She's just....I want her as my very own best friend!!
This is my first novel that I've read by Jenn Hype and I totally loved it and can't wait to pick up the second instalment in this series.
Seriously guys Pressing Adalyn is a definite must read.
A huge, emotionally charged 5 star read.
** Review provided by Gayle at BFDU **
She's broke and jobless.
She's also beautiful, sassy, controlled.
She's just moved in with her best friend Stacy in New York.
She needs work, but has no idea what she wants to do yet.
Nothing appeals to her.
Her party animal bestie wants her to come out with her, to a new club.
She can't think of anything worse.
Men.....Never, a no go zone.
Relationships....Forget it.
Her heart, her body, her soul is closed off.
She will never let anyone in.
No way.
That is until him.
Meet Ian.
He's gorgeous, drool worthy.
His smile....To die for.
A successful businessman, rich in his own right.
He's created his empire.
But he's single.
Relationships....Not a chance.
He'll guard his heart, walls forever erected.
His past has determined that.
Until he meets her.
Welcome to Adalyn and Ians world.
A world of secrets revealed.
A world where trust will be pushed to the limits.
A world where unfamiliar emotions will surface.
A world of insecurities that will need to be faced head on.
A world where pain and comfort go hand in hand.
Wow, just wow. This novel had me captivated from the prologue. I honestly couldn't put it down.
It's raw, confronting.....It's heartbreakingly beautiful. It took my breath away. I loved, loved, loved it.
The characters.....Omfg don't even....I fell in love with them all instantly. The banter between them had me laughing my butt off and on the flip side crying my eyes out.
I loved Adalyn and her strength and determination.
I adored Ian and his warmth, understanding and vulnerability.
But the kicker for me.....Stacy....She's just....I want her as my very own best friend!!
This is my first novel that I've read by Jenn Hype and I totally loved it and can't wait to pick up the second instalment in this series.
Seriously guys Pressing Adalyn is a definite must read.
A huge, emotionally charged 5 star read.
** Review provided by Gayle at BFDU **
November 2, 2015
Pressing Adalyn by Jenn Hype
Pressing Adalyn was definitely one of those books who came out fighting to be noticed. Hype holds nothing back as she paints the picture of strong willed girl who’s blocked out life in order to cope with her tragic past.
Adalyn is fierce and admittedly was a tough sell for me at first. In the first few chapters, I really struggled with my thoughts on Adalyn. She was a tough girl to love. From spouting her obnoxiously rude mouth to intentionally pushing everyone away, I wasn’t sure if I would be able to root for her. After seeing her wild banter with Ian, the only man crazy enough to challenge her back, I was slowly coming to like Adalyn. After reading more into the story, I understood her.
Ian is the man you always wish you had in your corner. He challenges Adalyn, pressing her to come out of her shell and learn to not just live but to enjoy living and loving again. His no nonsense attitude toward her not only has me swooning for him, but rooting for them as a couple.
Although I struggled here and there with this book, I did enjoy the banter and sexual tension Hype created between the characters. An added bonus to the story was Adalyn’s hilarious best friend, Stacy. Although Stacy is also slightly exaggerated, I still found myself enjoying her sassy banter and no nonsense attitude.
Overall, this book was definitely interesting and a great first start for Hype. I truly enjoyed the banter and the angst of a love/hate relationship. For that reason, I’d say this book was worth 4 stars on it’s on. Because I truly struggled with loving, sometimes even liking Adalyn and her obnoxious behavior, I’d have to bump it down to 3.5. Had Adalyn been toned down just a bit in the beginning, I think it’d have made all the difference in the world to the story.
Pressing Adalyn was definitely one of those books who came out fighting to be noticed. Hype holds nothing back as she paints the picture of strong willed girl who’s blocked out life in order to cope with her tragic past.
Adalyn is fierce and admittedly was a tough sell for me at first. In the first few chapters, I really struggled with my thoughts on Adalyn. She was a tough girl to love. From spouting her obnoxiously rude mouth to intentionally pushing everyone away, I wasn’t sure if I would be able to root for her. After seeing her wild banter with Ian, the only man crazy enough to challenge her back, I was slowly coming to like Adalyn. After reading more into the story, I understood her.
Ian is the man you always wish you had in your corner. He challenges Adalyn, pressing her to come out of her shell and learn to not just live but to enjoy living and loving again. His no nonsense attitude toward her not only has me swooning for him, but rooting for them as a couple.
Although I struggled here and there with this book, I did enjoy the banter and sexual tension Hype created between the characters. An added bonus to the story was Adalyn’s hilarious best friend, Stacy. Although Stacy is also slightly exaggerated, I still found myself enjoying her sassy banter and no nonsense attitude.
Overall, this book was definitely interesting and a great first start for Hype. I truly enjoyed the banter and the angst of a love/hate relationship. For that reason, I’d say this book was worth 4 stars on it’s on. Because I truly struggled with loving, sometimes even liking Adalyn and her obnoxious behavior, I’d have to bump it down to 3.5. Had Adalyn been toned down just a bit in the beginning, I think it’d have made all the difference in the world to the story.
November 16, 2015
Funny, emotional and a pinch of assault - it has it all…
This had the best opening chapter I’ve read in ages! Snarky, funny and hit me right in my bestie-loving heart. After that, I was ready to love this story no matter what and, lucky for me, what followed allowed me to do just that!
The cast of characters were so different that I wondered how they could mesh but they ended up being this mix of opposites that worked incredibly well. Adalyn has her issues – boy, does she ever! At first I had a really hard time connecting with her because, honestly, she seemed like a real bitch. Don’t get me wrong, she was funny and sarcastic (which I LOVE) and I wanted to like her. I did… eventually….
When she first met Ian I was shaking my head and wondering how she could ever win my heart (let alone his). Ian, on the other hand, won me over from the start. Handsome, rich, and sweet - he wore Adalyn down with his charm and his relentless pursuit of the real person behind her crusty exterior.
“If it’s the chase you want, if you want me to work for it, then I will.”
Stacy, Adalyn’s best friend, was sooo funny – horny, hilarious and the best of friends! I wanted to pack her up and take her home with me. She had me in stitches with zingers that had me snorting with laughter so often I was glad I was alone reading. People would have thought I was having seizures or something…
“Apparently b***h slapping me during his climax was okay but me kneeing him in the balls was “crossing the line”…
Along with the frivolity was a steamy romance and some personal history that brought tension and suspense to the mix. The climax/ending was verging on over the top for me but the whole story overall worked.
November 16, 2015
I knew Adalyn was a character I was going to love from the beginning. Sometimes it's hard for sarcasm to come across well in a book, but Jenn Hype did it perfectly! I could picture every eye roll, every side eye and every smirk. The banter between her and Stacy had me laughing. That one had the potential to take the spotlight away from our dear Adalyn. She is a riot.
There were plenty of times were I completely understood where Stacy was coming from with her frustration with Adalyn. I mean, who doesn't sometimes go through phases where they want to do what they love, but they just don't want to be pushed? I know I do. For Adalyn, it is also a great defense mechanism, much like the sarcasm. Close yourself off, you're safe. Enter Ian.
What I loved about Ian was that he isn't your typical alpha male you see in books today. Oh he's sexy, and he's successful, but he isn't cocky. Adalyn doesn't have to tame the savage beast. More like, she has to bring out his inner geek. I liked that he pushed her without being overbearing. You got the sense that he really cared for her, instead of coming off like a jerk. We get to know Ian's past a lot sooner than Adalyn's and forme, that just made him more endearing. I think it also helped Adalyn come clean too. Only hers was far more tragic. Is Adalyn broken? She says no, I say she's barely coping. She does a great job at masking her true self and feelings. Until Ian.
Only one character struck a nerve with me and that was Ian's sister, Carrie. I wanted to slap that girl! I know why she did what she did but still!
I loved the story, the chemistry between Adalyn and Ian and I liked that the story was just as much about Ian being true to himself as it was Adalyn. It wasn't a tragic story, but one bout healing and overcoming your past.
There were plenty of times were I completely understood where Stacy was coming from with her frustration with Adalyn. I mean, who doesn't sometimes go through phases where they want to do what they love, but they just don't want to be pushed? I know I do. For Adalyn, it is also a great defense mechanism, much like the sarcasm. Close yourself off, you're safe. Enter Ian.
What I loved about Ian was that he isn't your typical alpha male you see in books today. Oh he's sexy, and he's successful, but he isn't cocky. Adalyn doesn't have to tame the savage beast. More like, she has to bring out his inner geek. I liked that he pushed her without being overbearing. You got the sense that he really cared for her, instead of coming off like a jerk. We get to know Ian's past a lot sooner than Adalyn's and forme, that just made him more endearing. I think it also helped Adalyn come clean too. Only hers was far more tragic. Is Adalyn broken? She says no, I say she's barely coping. She does a great job at masking her true self and feelings. Until Ian.
Only one character struck a nerve with me and that was Ian's sister, Carrie. I wanted to slap that girl! I know why she did what she did but still!
I loved the story, the chemistry between Adalyn and Ian and I liked that the story was just as much about Ian being true to himself as it was Adalyn. It wasn't a tragic story, but one bout healing and overcoming your past.
August 30, 2016
Pressing Adalyn opens with college student Adalyn meeting her roommate Stacy for the first time and sets the tone for this well crafted story. Adalyn has control issues. Big ones. She knows this but despite the problems this causes her, she is just gamely trying to start her adult life and finding isn't easy. Enter Ian, the devastatingly handsome friend of Stacy who immediately gets Adalyn's hackles rising and who takes it upon himself to learn all he can about the defensive yet adorable (his words) Adalyn.
Ms. Hype's story takes you into the lives of two life-damaged people who, in spite of all that they have endured, are still trying to find love and happiness. Through humor, tension, and emotion-filled scenes Adalyn and Ian grow closer to each other and each others' truths. Though these truths are hard, and possibly a trigger for some, Ms Hype handled them deftly with compassion and skill. She doesn't just throw the issues out there and tie them up in a neat bow. The situations come to light and worked out by the characters is a very real-world way. Problems don't clear up over night and it's only through the characters finding the trust and acceptance they desperately need are the able to move forward. All the characters, including secondary ones such as Stacy and Carries are people you will find in everyday life dealing with the world in similar fashions.
Pressing Adalyn is an enjoyable read that keeps you interested and turning the pages. Adalyn's inner recriminations and self deprecation are hilarious and honest. Stacy is the best friend you always wanted and Ian is the everyday hero you want to swoon over.
As this is the first book in the Pretending series, I very much look forward to moving on to Stacy's book
Ms. Hype's story takes you into the lives of two life-damaged people who, in spite of all that they have endured, are still trying to find love and happiness. Through humor, tension, and emotion-filled scenes Adalyn and Ian grow closer to each other and each others' truths. Though these truths are hard, and possibly a trigger for some, Ms Hype handled them deftly with compassion and skill. She doesn't just throw the issues out there and tie them up in a neat bow. The situations come to light and worked out by the characters is a very real-world way. Problems don't clear up over night and it's only through the characters finding the trust and acceptance they desperately need are the able to move forward. All the characters, including secondary ones such as Stacy and Carries are people you will find in everyday life dealing with the world in similar fashions.
Pressing Adalyn is an enjoyable read that keeps you interested and turning the pages. Adalyn's inner recriminations and self deprecation are hilarious and honest. Stacy is the best friend you always wanted and Ian is the everyday hero you want to swoon over.
As this is the first book in the Pretending series, I very much look forward to moving on to Stacy's book
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