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The Real

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They say it happens when you least expect it.

It did for me.

It started the moment I saw the simple message pop up on my computer screen:

Cameron’s Mac: Hi.

And when I met the eyes of the gorgeous man messaging me from across the coffee shop, I never thought my reply would lead to the most intense, sexual, and passionate relationship of my life.

We both agreed to check our bags at the door and put our future hopes and aspirations on the table.

It worked.

I fell in love with his no holds barred attitude, sexy smirk, and undeniably good heart . . . and for a while we forgot about our baggage. We happily tripped over it to get to the other, neither of us willing to show the contents of our pasts in the off chance it could ruin us.

We built our love on a foundation of gray.

It was life in black and white that threatened to tear us apart.

374 pages

First published April 5, 2018

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About the author

Kate Stewart

48 books17.1k followers
USA Today bestselling author and Texas native, Kate Stewart, lives in
North Carolina with her husband, Nick. Nestled within the Blueridge
Mountains, Kate pens messy, sexy, angst-filled contemporary romance, as
well as romantic comedy and erotic suspense. Kate’s title, Drive, was
named one of the best romances of 2017 by The New York Daily News and
Huffington Post. Drive was also a finalist in the Goodreads Choice awards
for best contemporary romance of 2017. The Ravenhood Trilogy,
consisting of Flock, Exodus, and The Finish Line, has become an
international bestseller and reader favorite. Her holiday release, The Plight
Before Christmas, ranked #6 on Amazon’s Top 100. Kate’s works have
been featured in USA TODAY, BuzzFeed, The New York Daily News,
Huffington Post and translated into a dozen languages.
Kate is a lover of all things ’80s and ’90s, especially John Hughes films and
rap. She dabbles a little in photography, can knit a simple stitch scarf for
necessity, and on occasion, does very well at whiskey.

Contact Kate- Email-authorkatestewart@gmail.com

Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/79348...

Newsletter signup:
http://www.katestewartwrites.com/cont...

Website-www.katestewartwrites.com

Facebook-https://www.facebook.com/authorkatest...

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/?hl=en

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 981 reviews
Profile Image for Christy.
4,107 reviews34.6k followers
October 4, 2018
5 stars!!!

description

Kate Stewart is one of those authors that always seems to toy with my emotions. I’m all happy and carefree reading this awesome book, then bam! All these feels hit me at once and I’m wrecked. Reading a Stewart book is an experience, and The Real took me on a beautiful ride. I loved everything about this book. I smiled, I laughed, I cried, I may have cursed at Kate a bit, but by the end, I loved her more than ever! This book is fantastic and going straight on my 2018 favorites list.

Cameron and Abbie meet in a a coffee shop. It’s an interesting first meet, and the way their relationship started off won me over from the start. This book was fresh, fun, and the King of Woo and his Witchy-Woman stole my heart. Here’s the thing though, Abbie and Cameron have a rule. It’s Abbie’s rule, actually. No baggage. No past. Only the here and now. Sounds perfect, right?

description

This is one of those books that’s best left going in blind. So I’m not going to talk about the story much here. I will, however, talk about the amazing characters. Abbie is a fantastic heroine. She is quirky, fun, independent and strong. I loved her personality. And her friendship with her bestie, Bree- OMG. I can’t tell you how many times I LOL’d at them. Then there was Cameron. Cam is one of my favorite characters Kate has ever written (shh, don’t tell the others). I loved this man. He was the sweetest, the swooniest, and had the best heart. Y’all know I’m a sucker for broken characters and there was so much more to these characters that meet the eye.
“Look at me,” he whispered. “This is me at my worst. Please don’t do this to us.”

“I didn’t do this.”

“You’re right. I did. Love me anyway.”

Kate Stewart, once again delivers a unique and emotionally charged romance. The Real starts out as a slow burn, charming love story and turns in to so much more. I love that every book Kate writes is different than the norm. It’s not an easy feat in todays romance genre. The Real is an all consuming, uber romantic, and emotional read. It gave me a true book hangover! This, my friends, is a MUST READ!
“Just so you know, you and me, we are absolute.”

description
Profile Image for ❥ KAT ❥ Kitty Kats Crazy About Books.
2,340 reviews9,361 followers
April 12, 2018
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MY REVIEW can also be found on my blog:
KITTY KATS CRAZY ABOUT BOOKS

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THE REAL: Is a full length romance novel from author Kate Stewart.
In this we meet Cameron and Abbie. Spoken in 'Dual Perspectives.'

Thirty year old Abbie Gorman is a quirky character that had many an issue from imaginary things that didn’t go bump in the night working by day as a corporate financial consultant.

Thirty four year old Cameron Bledsoe owned a few small chain sporting good stores and coached high school kids part time. Dubbed The King of Woo with his dirty mouth and one liners that had me swooning with the rest of the readers,

Abbie’s favourite place to just leave her inhibitions at the door and pretend that she was part of a functioning society where her many unfounded issues didn’t exist was a little cafe shop called ‘Sunny Side’ with it’s wobbly table and coffee that she couldn’t get enough of in Chicago a place not far from her three-flat place in Wicker Park.

They say it happens when you least expect it.

It all started when Cameron Bledsoe simply sent Abbie an air drop message from his mac, from across the coffee shop.. one simple word. Hi

We have front row seats as they drink from mugs with funny quotes as we read their exchanges, as they make small talk getting to know each other slowly behind their keyboards by mixing the old school of dating with new with rules set in concrete as they both enter through those doors of ‘Sunny Side’ they leave their baggage at the door, no heavy talk about past exe’s whatsoever, no personal history. No baggage...No Past...Only the here and now...

The feels hit when they aren't so jaded and take that step into the real world and share their first kiss right outside on the pavement of ‘Sunny Side’ His kiss gave me life and death. The end of everything as I knew it and the beginning of a need, a craving for only him. things from that point onwards run smoothly but in the background that cynic in me reared its ugly head and yelled it’s runnin too smoothly when out of nowhere we’re hit with a wtf moment, a game changer, my jaw dropped, my heart stopped, I couldn’t believe what I’d read, but just like real life lessons and bumps in the road we learn by reading what these two went through to find their common ground again.

ONE FOUR THERE I'm giving this book 5 stars because I felt everything that I could personally feel whilst reading this. The feels just came out of nowhere and bulldozered me down. The swooning #KingofWoo, The angst, The giggles (galore), the journey these two characters took me on was so unique I dare you to compare it to anything you've read before. A riveting page-turner of unputdownable proportions, once picked up it was hard to put down. Highly addictive. Highly seductive. Highly recommended. A slow moving... A slow burn... A slow ignite to all the feels..

I loved this to the moon and back..!!

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Profile Image for Patty ~ Wrapped Up In Reading Book Blog.
1,260 reviews10.1k followers
April 15, 2018
*****FIVE STARS*****
{ARC & BETA Read Generously Provided by Author}


I looked at the love of my life and got lost in the beautiful plains of his face, the angle of his jaw, the jade of his eyes. He was the same man I fell for, but nothing made sense. We’d been torn apart by truth and lies.





Kate is the only author I will beta for because I know without a doubt that every story she writes will touch my heart one way or another. She’s the Queen of the ”slow build”, which honestly I am not the biggest fan of because I tend to want instant gratification, but with Kate’s stories it always ends up being well worth the wait. Once this story takes off, get ready to be taken on a wild roller coaster ride of emotions. ”THE REAL” had heart. It was beyond angsty and had an overabundance of Ms. Stewart’s signature steam. Get ready to fall in love with the story of Abbie Gorman and Cameron Bledsoe!






Abbie has a successful career and a beautiful condo in one of the most beautiful cities in America…Chicago! She has a great family and the coolest best-friend but her love life has been in need of a boost for far too long. Abbie’s last relationship has left her shell-shocked and untrusting of her judgment in men. She thought her ex was “the one” until he turned out to be borderline psychotic. That relationship has left lasting scars, but then she meets Cameron, the handsome stranger at her favorite coffee shop, and it seems that he might be the one to pull Abbie out of the protective bubble she’s placed herself in over the past year.





Cameron and Abbie’s courtship is a slow burn. They only interact with each other via online chatting whenever they agree to meet up at the café. The two agree to take things slow and to get to know each other better through their online chats before taking things to the next level. They both seem to have issues from past relationships, so the initial arrangement between them works out the best for the couple. Once they do away with the laptops, the barriers between them start to dissipate and the story took off for me. They still keep things seemingly chaste. Even though they’re both nearly dying to be with each other intimately, there is still that slight hesitation on Abbie’s part. Through it all, Cameron remains the perfect and extremely patient gentleman. I really was beginning to think this guy was too good to be true. The romance was just too perfect and once Abbie could no longer deny her physical need for Cameron, the two couldn’t get enough of each other. Something kept me on edge. I knew things were a little too amazing and that the ”shoe” was somehow going to drop sooner or later.







Abbie and Cameron agreed, in the beginning, to leave the past behind them but in not facing it from the start it left them open to impending heartbreak. We knew what Abbie was hiding, but Cameron was a big mystery. We never got much about his past except for his relationship with his parents and the fact that he was a huge player in his younger days. When the bomb drops, you won’t see it coming and it will break your heart.



Will Cameron and Abbie be able to face their biggest challenge to save what they know is the ”the Real” that they only have with each other?


Here are my overall ratings:
Hero: 5
Heroine: 4.5
Plot: 5
Angst: 4.5
Steam: 5
Chemistry Between Hero & Heroine: 5







THE REAL is currently available!! If you love angst and a heart-achingly good romance, this is one you will want to bump up your TBRs!


Amazon US: https://amzn.to/2EI3n76
Amazon CA: https://amzn.to/2IRMauq
Amazon UK: https://amzn.to/2JIxlM7
Paperback: https://amzn.to/2vaJIgN




August 8, 2020
There's some beautiful reviews about this book and about the hero being “swoony” but they have failed to mention the real truth about it.



I can't forgive the hero. Yes, he's been separated for a year from his wife when he started a relationship with the heroine without telling her that he's a married man.
His wife is the heroine's boss and a friend. That's a slap on the heroine's face and she felt like the hero made her an adulterer.
I've never gotten a divorce but i know there's still ways to get a divorce.

The author tried to make his ex wife an abuser and pill addict if that was the case then the divorce should have been granted I just don't get why he couldn't divorce her even when she was contesting the divorce? His excuse was that he didn't want to tell his lawyer that she was an abuser. Why would he have been considerate to his abuser? Maybe that was the case for him, but I can't forgive him when he deliberately lied to the heroine. He said that he wanted to be with her first before telling her that he was a married man.

Women can be just as abusive as men are, and I get that he might've felt ashamed or embarrassed? But two wrongs don't make it right. He chose to start a relationship with the heroine based on lies. Who's to say he won't lie to her again?

“I worked with her, your wife. You made me an adulterer. You didn’t even give me the choice.” I shook my head at the memory of it. “And I told her,” I swallowed, “I told her private things about us. Kat knew about you when we met, she knew the day you told me you loved me.” I let him see my anger, my pain. I let him see the betrayal I still felt. “I trusted you and you made damn sure of it. I begged you not to and you made a fucking fool out of me.”

And wait for it.. She's the one doing the groveling. She slapped him so he snapped at her telling her to never put her hands on him ever again, so later she's the one apologizing and groveling like she's the one who lied about being a married woman.

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Profile Image for Shabby  -BookBistroBlog.
1,597 reviews864 followers
April 9, 2018
I've had the pleasure of acquainting with Ms Stewart's book, Drive on the last day of last year. What a spectacular read to the end my year on a high note and she had enamoured me with her skillful handling of the complex matters of the heart, with such ease and grace, I had to pick up the next book to read, that was a given. Even if to just flow with the words. The REAL is just the book that sweeps you away. The book is rich in feels and embellished with sparkling emotions, of every colour possible. It's so fascinating to watch characters like Cameron Bledsoe have a chance encounter with Abbie Gorman, in a café, where they randomly start chatting. It's light and cheerful conversation that sets stage for some hot & heavy words to come.



leave your baggage at the door, No personal history, no ex talks whatsoever are the rules, made very clear at the on start. Nothing of THEN tainting the NOW!
The funny one liner mugs, bearing witness to the start of a intoxicating relationship, over coffee and random talk. They're both at crucial juncture of their fragile lives, looking for change and strength of bettering themselves. I think they both lacked self respect and self worth at the on start, and now having met each other, they wanted to be a better person for each other.
That emotion in itself is a testament of true love, even if they don't know it yet.
Ms. Stewart writes love stories like a Fortune teller predicts future. She leaves clues, she gives hints for the readers to figure out the outcome, much before the characters know so. While I rooted for them both to find their way to their HEA, the journey was through much heartache and angst. Their volatile pasts had them both had hiding in their closets, scarring them and leaving them shameful and embarrassed. They share a typical survivor's dilemma, the guilt of moving on and the incessant need to find a motive to get up in the morning and go out in the world.
The both characters are so similar, it was painful to see them trying to fumble their way out of the web of misunderstandings. I wanted to pluck them from their predicaments and plant them into clarity, such was my involvement in the story.
Being a clever writer, Kate puts in heavy dosage of humour to dilute the intensity a bit. I loved uncoordinated & awkward Abbie trying to run or dance and her hilarious attempts at flirtation. She's as successful at love as she's at running and Always the bridesmaid, never the bride is preparing herself to have a perpetual Slob Saturdays in life.
my guardian angel must have taken the year off or decided I was equally pathetic and resigned
The best scene was the first kiss they shared standing on the pavement outside the café, it's starts a beautiful phase for them, a blissful bubble,where they are oblivious to the world, wrapped up in their own pink haze.
a kiss can be an introduction statement and a promise I plan to make all three when you let me ,but the butterflies that raced through me wouldn't one of a high-school girl. these belong to a woman who had kissed far too many gutter frogs and had finally met her sidewalk Prince. all of my fears were being put to rest daily. I was no longer a woman afraid. I was a woman in love



Things are actually too good to be true, and like they say, if it is TOO good to be true, it actually is. And the pinpricks are many to burst their bubble.
we had hindered and hurt ourselves despite our warnings did that make us worse off,volatile or just vulnerable? it made us human
There's a gigantic WTF moment, will leave you mouth open and all and though I had figured it out pretty early on, still it didn't soften the blow, even a bit.
The pain is experienced by not only Cameron & Abbie, but I doubled up in ache as well. I was a shareholder in misery, I was a witness to their anguish and I wanted to speed up their healing, like they were my own.



Only Kate can create such believable characters, so endearing and lovable and the most fantastic thing is their growth together. They go from strength to strength and are lost without each other.
I loved Bree, the Good old southerner who is a straight shooting friend, telling it like it is. I was laughing at Ms. Jen "Gypsy" Zingaro, and her punching water can!! Kat I hated with a passion. Wanted to take my nails on her skin and punch her !!
Kate writes with finesse and virtuosity, you always walk away richer and more abundant in knowledge of nuances of Love, than before. Maybe now Max and Rachel will get a book and the process of her giving and us taking and then fawning, will start all over again !!
5 Rain of Abbie Stars
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Profile Image for Lana ❇✾DG Romance❇✾.
2,131 reviews13.1k followers
April 11, 2018
5 STARS

A kiss can be an introduction, statement, and a promise. I plan to make all three when you let me.


My heart. Oh my poor, cold black heart. It will never be the same again because Kate Stewart stole it with this incredible story. This is hands down, my favorite book by this author to date, and easily one of my favorite reads of the year. I still can't stop thinking about it.

The Real was a poignant, emotional, and unforgettable romance. It was unique and beautiful. It was gripping and thought provoking. It was absolutely EVERYTHING. It tore my heart out and put it back together and I'll never be the same again after experiencing it.
We’d spiraled from nothing into everything within a few months. It wasn’t just attraction. It was far more, both unspoken and admitted. And just as sure as I was standing on that porch, I wanted him to know.


Reeling from a terrible breakup with a man she grossly misjudged, Abbie is not eager to jump into another relationship any time soon. She's afraid to trust again and worst of all, she's afraid to trust her own judgement. But when a handsome stranger's message air drops onto her Mac in a coffee shop, what begins is one of the most memorable meet cutes and wooing non-dates I have ever had the pleasure of reading. Cameron is devilishly handsome, patient, sweet and everything that Abbie wants but doesn't trust herself to have. Their relationship isn't rushed but the depth of it is unexpected for both of them.

There's plenty of light hearted moments and giggles with the appearance of Abbie's BFF who I'm fairly convinced is my spirit animal. The girl was a riot and I loved their friendship and the way she was always there for Abbie in her own quirky and super loud way.
Your resting bitch face is pretty but scary. And in the last year, it’s gotten worse. Your bitch face reads ‘Abandon all hope. You can’t stick your penis here.’ But, by the way, he just looked at you. I think it’s safe to say he gives no shits. He wants to put his penis into your vagina.”


The love between the MCs is a slow burn but it's powerful and raw and real. It was such a pleasure to read the progression of their feelings. But of course nothing is so simple when it comes to the genius mind of Kate Stewart, and after she lulls you into a state of swoony bliss, she slams you with a two by four of feels.

But while the love between Cameron and Abbie may be real, it's certainly not black and white. It's a gray area of beauty and pain. Kate isn't afraid to broach a subject matter that you don't commonly find in romance novels and I have so much respect for her for going there. This book is so much more than a mere romance. It's riveting and thought provoking.
My body his slave, I came apart as his name pushed out past my lips. It was his name that wrote itself across my heart; it was his eyes that spoke to my soul. It was Cameron. I lost myself, trusting him with every minute. His sex was my undoing.

I don't have enough words to tell you all the ways I loved this book. It simply needs to be experienced. I can't recommend it enough. This NEEDS to be on your TBR. It needs to be read. And it will surely be going on your favorites shelf right along mine.

ARC courtesy of publisher in exchange for an honest review

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Profile Image for MELISSA *Mel Reader*.
1,398 reviews1,465 followers
April 18, 2018
5 King of Woo Stars!
(ARC provided by author)

-Love is only meant for the brave.

-Real love is a fucking miracle. And if you’re lucky enough to find it, you throw every one of your preconceived notions away and you hold onto it with every ounce of your being.

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Abbie Gorman is a beautiful 30 yr. old woman living in Chicago. She has a place she loves in Wicker Park, and works as a corporate financial consultant. She has wonderful friends & family, but hasn’t found that special someone yet. She’s a bit jaded after her last relationship, and has trouble trusting. She feared she might always be the bridesmaid, and never the bride. She just didn’t know if she’d ever cross paths with a man she could give her heart to. She thought she might always be alone, and tried to be content with her life as it was. This included her weekly routine of lazy Saturdays at Sunny Side Cafe.

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One Saturday while at the coffee shop Abbie gets a message on her Mac from someone named Cameron. She looks up to see a sexy stranger that is absolutely gorgeous. They begin messaging each other, and she starts to be more open to possibilities. She wasn’t much of a risk taker, but enjoyed their flirtation, and felt a strong connection to Cam. She wanted something real that wasn’t just about the physical. They continue spending time together, and become the bright spot in each other’s lives. Their time together was their refuge & something they both looked forward to and cherished.

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-“I want this more than anything.”

-I’m not interested in anyfuckingthing else. Nothing. But. You.

-All you have to do is reach for me and I’ll give you what you need.

-A kiss can be an introduction, statement, and a promise. I plan to make all three when you let me.

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Soon the undeniable pull between them turns into something meaningful. Their intense need for one another ignites into the most sexual, passionate experience they’ve ever had. They both fall hard and agree to leave their baggage & past behind so they can live in the moment. They are obsessed and happy together, but when truths are finally revealed will what they have survive?

I loved this book so much! It was such a beautiful story full of angst and true love. The kind of love you will fight for. A love that will set you free. A love that can not only break you, but put you back together again. It’s about soulmates, and being brave enough to risk your heart & grab love when it comes your way. Love doesn’t always have the best timing, it’s not always perfect, but if it’s real you grab it and don’t let go. I adored this couple and fell completely in love with Cameron Bledsoe. Swoon! Swoon! Swoon! This man stole my heart! I hope we get a book for Max or Oliver next. I need more of these delicious men of Wicker Park!

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Profile Image for Astrid - The Bookish Sweet Tooth.
795 reviews889 followers
April 11, 2018






If you've read DRIVE and loved it I'm happy, because it was my top favorite of 2017. If you expect The Real is a continuation or Drive 2 rethink - when has Kate Stewart has ever recycled a story? She has an incredible gift of putting her own unique spin on every trope and plot. And you bet that she did that with The Real.

Cameron and Abbie are troubled characters. At a certain age almost everyone comes with baggage but Cameron and Abbie decide to leave theirs at the front door and start with a clean slate. The rules are: no expectations, no talk about the past, no absolutes - just getting to know the people they are now, being in the now. The time they spend together is full of laughter and new things, banter, joy and growing feelings. And for a while this works really well and in their favor but at some point you need to drag the skeletons out of the closet and talk about the things that shaped you into the person you are today, right?
It was always the pain that twisted love into a tragedy. Expectations ruined the rest.

But let me tell you about Abbie and Cameron.

All the swoons for Cameron - I fell in love with the King of Woo from the first moment. He so deserves this name - he has this charming personality, the sweet, untroubled one that makes you think "this man has everything in his life and yet he wants ME." His romantic gestures make Abbie feel special, adored...wooed. He showers her with his affection and under his caring hands Abbie starts to bloom. Cameron is an unforgettable character, he was so honest and sweet about his feelings and adoration for Abbie. It was obvious that he fell in love with her early on.
“The only thing that could trump you today, Abbie, is you tomorrow. And I don’t want to be without you tomorrow.”



Abbie is highly suspicious of everyone. It's not just a quirk though, it's something she developed over the past years. Her inability to trust men has kept her from a change in her relationship status, a fact that she hates when everyone else is marrying the love of their lives. The cafe she goes to every Saturday is her safe haven, where she can pretend she is normal. When Cameron and Abbie set their rules it's the first time in a while that she feels freed from the burden of her past. Abbie was funny and smart, cautious for having been burned in the past but I didn't fault her for that. She needed to process everything at her own pace.

I have to admit that for a little while I didn't think that Abbie deserved Cameron but her insight, her own moment of enlightenment, the way she covered every concern I had and came to the right conclusion made her perfect.
In a new world of second chances, I was the luckiest son of a bitch alive. I knew it.

I loved how their relationship developed at a slow simmer. Their exchanges were funny and adorable from the beginning, turning more personal with every meeting, taking it to the next level with the crescendo of a toe-curling kiss that will set your Kindle on fire.


“I want you. I’m not jaded anymore, Cameron.”
“I feel the same,” he whispered softly. “You’ve changed everything for me.”

There is one aspect in this story that lifts this book from great to fantastic - unfortunately giving details would spoil the story so I'm being very vague but it's something that people don't talk about although we know it exists. I thought it was a stroke of genius and I love that Kate Stewart built a story about this issue.

Ms Stewart tosses us into a hurricane of emotions and for a good portion of the book I was cursing at her for having my heart in a too-tight grip. Joy and delight is mixed with gut-wrenching pain and sorrow. There is tenderness and light-hearted banter and fun, passion and anger to find in this story. Emotional, thought-provoking and poignant - it's what this author's books are known for and the reason why I keep coming back to her for more. She makes it hurt so good. DRIVE will be hard to push off the pedestal of TOP FAVORITE but The Real comes close.




Profile Image for Malene.
1,253 reviews698 followers
April 6, 2018
Abbie the witchy woman and Cameron the king of woo. These two had me spellbound immediately after reading the first chapter. I was intrigued as they were when they caught each other’s gaze in that Sunny Side Cafe drinking coffee. Their looks said it all as did their hilarious coffee mugs but it was Abbie’s quirky, cautious and sarcastic personality that screwed it all up. Luckily fate strikes again and that second interaction in The Violet Hour is filled with chemistry and of course Abbie’s BFF , the hilarious and fabulous Bree who makes sure that Abbie has a second chance with Cameron at the Sunny Side Cafe.

From that moment on Abbie and Cameron story is a delicious slow burn to get to know one another through words. Yes, they communicate through Airdrop while they sit in the cafe. It’s different and gives their interaction and relationship a more intimate feel. There’s a reason why they choose this way of getting to know one another and I won’t spoil it here. I enjoyed every aspect of this story and when they took it one step forward to actually dating and being intimate I was already head over heels in love with both Cameron and Abbie. He wooed me and Abbie made me laugh. Their chemistry was undeniable and sizzling hot. This was romance and I devoured it.

Then the other shoe dropped. Yup, I didn’t see that coming and believe me I was thinking about some sort of twist or conflict along their blossoming romance but Kate Stewart had me totally mesmerized by her words that it hit me when I least expected it. My heart was shattered but Kate Stewart puts it back together effortlessly and with so much love and attention to her characters and their story. The topics are serious, taboo and very important. Kate Stewart puts her touch on the story, on a topic that needs more awareness and discussion. The reader becomes emotionally invested in Abbie and Cameron. The pace is spot on from the beginning and kept me glued to the pages. The epilogue left me on a high and with a smirk on my face. The title says it all. This story and its topics feels real and so does Abbie and Cameron’s love. Another smash from Kate Stewart.

5 BadAssDirtyWichyAndWooStars

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I was generously provided a Beta-copy and then ARC for my honest review thoughts.
Profile Image for Rachel  L.
1,952 reviews2,406 followers
April 10, 2018
4 stars!

“You never really know someone unless they want you to.”

One of my favorite things about being a fan of an author is seeing them grow as a writer as the years go by. My first ever book by Kate Stewart was Loving the White Liar, then Room 212 and with those I knew this was an author I enjoyed. Then The Fall released and the fangirl in me was activated. Since then, Kate has only continued to deliver wonderful and beautiful stories. None of them are the same, everything she writes is unique and original. And I always find myself wanting more of her words.

The Real is further proof that Kate only gets better, her intricate plot and the alluring characters reminds me of why I love her stories. At its heart, this book is about believing in love even when you’ve given up on it.

This is a book I truly believe you need to GO IN BLIND. Did you read that? GO IN BLIND! Seriously, just stop reading this review, buy the book, read it, then read reviews. I knew a little something going in and while it didn’t in any way affect my feelings on the book, I wish I hadn’t known. Again, this doesn’t affect my feelings or my rating, that is on the overall of the book, but I think the book has more punch if you don’t know anything.

So without revealing any spoilers, I loved the characters, I loved the beautiful words and I enjoyed the story. If I could, I would give Kate a giant hug for this book and all the books she wrote before it. Someday hopefully I can be weird and hug her in person. She just needs to get her butt closer to the west coast again haha.

“You and me, we are absolute.”

ARC provided by the author in exchange for an honest review


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Profile Image for Olga therebelreader.
888 reviews751 followers
May 5, 2018
I did really enjoy this book. I love contemporary novels that are unique in their own way as this one was. The romance in The Real is enchanting! I loved it so much because it made me giddy. I wanted nothing more than for Cameron and Abbie to have their happily ever after and throughout the whole book, I rooted for them, even through the shakiness. Their chemistry is instant, their passion undeniable. The writing is compelling and incredibly delectable. The author writes her characters so wonderfully you literally feel like you know them. I didn't have one moment where I felt bored with the storyline. Highly recommended for those who like reads about real love and accepting each other, no matter what.


In short:
Hero 5/5 | Heroine 5/5 | Plot (Point, Originality) 4/5 | Writing Style 4/5 | Steam 3/5 | Romance 5/5 | Angst-Suspense 3/5 | Darkness 0/5 | Humor 2/5 | Secondary Characters 4/5 | Drama-Conflict 4/5 | Mystery 2/5 | Twists 4/5 | Pace Steady | Action 2/5


ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for NMmomof4.
1,592 reviews4,302 followers
April 30, 2018
3 Stars

Overall Opinion: I have to admit that I read some big spoilers before going in to this. I did, I don't regret it, but I also set myself up with expectations of an angstfest that would have me in tears and heartbreak. Sadly, that didn't happen. I know other readers felt it, but I really didn't. I wanted to shake the h and have her snap out of the initial shock sooner. I wanted her to realize what she had with the H and that it wasn't as big of a betrayal as she was assuming. Context is a big thing here and in the big picture I really didn't have an issue with what all went down -- granted, I know many readers will have issues with this. It's all based on our own preferences, and that's fine! So please don't shoot me for not being bothered by it all 😜 Overall, a "just okay" 3 star read for me.

**PLEASE DONT CLICK MY SPOILER TAGS UNLESS YOU ARE OKAY WITH IT BEING SPOILED, AS THEY ARE BIG SPOILERS IN THIS REVIEW**

Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Abbie and Cameron's story. They meet in a coffee shop where Abbie declines Cameron's offer to share a cup of coffee. The next encounter they have opens up conversation via computer messaging, and they both decide to see where it goes without bringing their past relationship baggage into it and taking things slow. After a couple months of messaging in the same coffe shop, they give in to their desires and start up a true relationship. There are some big reveals, some sexy times, and some sweet moments...and they get a HEA ending.

POV: This alternated between Abbie and Cameron's POV.

Overall Pace of Story: Alright. I skimmed some in the second half of the book. I wasn't feeling the angsty parts and it also felt like nothing was happening (and all inner dialogue that went on and on). The first half worked well for me and I never skimmed.

Instalove: No, they take a while to develop stronger feelings.

H rating: 4.5 stars. Cameron. I really liked him! The h dubbed him as the "king of woo" and I agree! I think he was awesome at making the h feel special, wanted, and loved.

h rating: 3.5 stars. Abbie. I liked her, but then I had issues with her insecurities and how she sometimes took them out on the H.

Sadness level: Low, no tissues needed. I'm actually pretty bummed that I didn't get into the angst in this one 🤷🏻‍♀️

Push/Pull: Yes

Heat level: Hot. They have some hot tension, chemistry, and scenes -- but not so much it takes away from the story.

Descriptive sex: Yes

OW/OM drama: Yes

Sex scene with OW or OM: No

Cheating: Not IMO, but others might think of it as cheating.

Separation: Yes

Possible Triggers: Yes

Closure: This had good closure and what I would call a HEA ending .

Safety: This one should be either Safe with exception or Not Safe for most safety gang readers depending on personal preferences.
Profile Image for Maria✦❋Steamy Reads Blog❋✦.
662 reviews2,699 followers
May 9, 2018

➦You know... I'll give this book 5 stars just for the fact that it managed to surprise me. I rarely read the blurbs, especially when it comes to reading books by my favorite authors. Needless to say, I went in blind. The beginning of the book was exciting and I was sucked in from page one. Two strangers meeting at a coffee shop and communicating only via their laptops? Seriously cool. But that's all I'm gonna say about the book. :)

➦I had no idea where the book was going to take me. But by the half way mark I got a little too comfortable and I remember thinking "I'm getting bored and this isn't going anywhere" and then I turned a page.


➦The fact that the author has timed it so perfectly just blows my mind. And of course, this book addresses some very important issues, and it makes you stop and think. I was absorbing it all with my heart and loved everything about the book - the romance, the angst, the surprise and the thoughtfulness behind the story. I recommend this book to anyone who is looking for a romance read that isn't written to formula and that is sure to blow your socks right off. Sealed!


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Profile Image for Angie - Angie's Dreamy Reads.
689 reviews13.7k followers
April 13, 2018
I feel like I need a minute, a minute to sit and breathe because wow!

WOW.
WOW!


I’m breathless. That was... I can’t even explain the feels. It’s unreal. I’m stunned. One minute I was relaxed, lured into a delicious bubble of happy, sweet, sexy, fun romance and then the next BOOM!

Explosions of angst everywhere.

I’m so overwhelmed by this story as a whole. The emotions. The romance. The quirky characters. The everything. I’m blown away. I’ve been a fan of Kate Stewart’s for a bit—she wrote Drive, The Brave Line, both my absolute favorites—and I can undoubtedly say that I’ve added a THIRD TOP FAV READ from this author to my list. Actually, The Real, Drive and The Brave Line are ULTIMATE reads, mandatory reads when it comes to this author.

The Real was riveting. Compelling. Heartbreaking. Combustible. There are so many words I could use to describe my reading experience. What started off slow and easy, became a tumultuous, heart wrenching tale that left me wrecked and ruined in the very best way. And let me tell this is UNFORGETTABLE. From the moment you start reading, you’re swept up in Cameron and Abbie’s sweetness. The swoon is REAL, people. The flirting, the banter, the back and forth tender moments, the chemistry between our characters is out of this world. I was spellbound with Cameron and Abbie, ensnared by their slow-burning love story. On top of allllllllll the swoon, there are so many times where I laughed out loud because Abbie is adorable. She says things, does things that make you fall in love with her. And then you add in Cameron, our hero—a sweet, gentle man who still contains all those sexy alpha male qualities and I just can't get enough. It’s everything, I tell you. The way he romances Abbie, the way he slowly breaks down her walls...

AHHHHHHHH!
AHHHHHHHHHHH!
AHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!


I die. I die a million sweet and swoony deaths over this couple. And man, are these two hot together!!!! The chemistry explodes, becoming an inferno of need and lust and desire. But what really adds to this novel, what makes it just so unforgettable is the deep-seated feels. The heart pounding connection between Cameron and Abbie is raw and intense, so all encompassing!

“Fuck, I’ll never forget the way you look right now,” he whispered.
I felt beautiful and worshiped, the new normal that only he could make me feel.
“I don’t want anyone else.”
“I’ll keep it that way,” he assured as he tore off his undershirt.


Man, these two are epic together. You feel them in every scene, in every line, in every page. And when they angst hits, it tears you apart. I honestly couldn’t get enough. It’s such a gorgeous story, one that really speaks of second chances, new beginnings, of hope, forgiveness, and healing. I swear, it's going to surprise you. It's going to knock you off your feet.

Overall, I’m blown away. I’ve been such a fan of Kate Stewart; not only is she a gorgeous writer, but her stories are always heartfelt. She truly outdid herself with The Real, giving her readers an absolutely unforgettable experience. And I truly feel like this is one of the best books of the year. I hope everyone adds this to their list of MUST READS!

*** Thanks to the author for the ARC I received in exchange for an honest review
April 26, 2018
4-4.5 ★'s

It's funny how you feel one way about a book and then something flips and it totally changes your perception. The first two thirds of this book is super sweet, I mean, we are talking about the King of Woo so what else should we expect?

Cameron and Abbie meet in a coffee shop and only converse through their Macs. Abbie sets up some rules that include them both leaving their past baggage behind and just enjoy the present...and enjoy they do.

They have a very lovely and romantic relationship and as much as they want things to progress, they both hold back. It's frustrating and exciting and I'm still shocked at how well Cameron did.

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This is where I was thinking how can everyone be giving this book five stars? WTH...it's killing me with all the sugary sweetness but then HOLY HELL, Kate Stewart pulls out the big guns.

I have to admit I didn't totally see it coming. I knew that particular plot line was going somewhere but definitely not where it went. And while I LOVED the angst, I felt like Cameron totally changed. Maybe it was that the secret was out or it was his pride or it's just a product of that situation but I missed the old Cameron.

This is where that past baggage comes back into play and it's not pretty. They both have a lot to work out and they're both pretty stubborn so it takes a while. Luckily, they finally get their acts together.

I enjoyed the reunite even if what progressed after was a bit cliché. I could have done with more woo~ing.
Profile Image for Pavlina Read more sleep less blog  .
2,434 reviews5,106 followers
April 9, 2018
4 SWEET STARS

This was a sweet story, I loved the romance a lot!Cameron and Abbie have an amazing chemistry!They were flirty,sweet and funny, I adored them!I loved that the romance was developed slowly between Abbie and Cameron and the way was refreshing!There were some twists that I didn't expect them that makes the story even more unique!It was a beautiful story with a lovely romance!I loved the writing and the characters were realistic!

 


  
Profile Image for Wil Loves Books!.
1,256 reviews474 followers
May 2, 2018
5 Big “Absolute” Stars!!!

Love is only meant for the brave.”

Wow! Not often does a book leaves me speechless and absolutely devastated (in a good way) but this book absolutely has. So much beauty, so much pain and so many feels, way too many. Kate Stewart is responsible for one of my absolute favorite books last year with Drive. And now with The Real, she once again wrote a book that will top my favorites list!

At that moment, I was transparent, and I knew it. I wasn’t doing anything to stop it. I had no fear. I wanted it, wanted us. To belong, not to just a man, but the man who held me. Warmth spread throughout my limbs as my body shuddered with sparked need. The pain was dull in comparison to the reaction of his touch, his words, the look in his eyes.”

The Real is…real. A real love story, with very realistic and relatable characters. With some relevant, interesting and important themes that often go unmentioned, especially in romance.  Not gonna lie, it started a bit slow for me and I wonder where the book was going but the more I read, the more I got hooked and the more I loved it. I think that’s the norm with Kate’s books I’ve read so far. And OMG I cried! And you know, I almost never cry reading books, but the FEELS, they’re strong on this one.

“He leaned in again, and that next kiss stopped time, rebuked our pasts, led us crashing forward, and lasted a heart rendering eternity. The world was a blur as we stayed content in our cloud. He was all I saw, all I felt, and it was incredible.”

Honestly, I don’t know how to explain The Real, it just is one of those books. Yep, one of those you need to read to understand. It’s a very beautiful love story. I have to admit that I saw one of the plot twists a mile away since the very beginning. Not sure why, I had a hunch and immediately knew that was going to happen. However, it was as shocking, especially since there were some additional twists and turns I didn’t really expected. Even knowing that, this book never stopped amazing me, or like Abbie says “wooing” me.

“Abbie’s Mac: You would kiss me for the first time in a coffee shop?


Cameron’s Mac: In front of God and everyone. At this point, I’d kiss you anywhere you let me. Are you ready for that, Abbie? Because once I get access to those lips, I’m going to suck them dry.”

I really liked the main characters. Abbie was funny, sassy and so relatable. And Cameron was simply amazing. Cameron stole the show, the book and my heart. He made the book for me, what an amazing character! Some Cameron swooniness below:

“But, Abbie, it was worth it,” he whispered. “I would do it again. I would do it all over again.”

“Tell me I can have this, tell me I can be this happy. Tell me I can have you.”

“The only thing that could trump you today, Abbie, is you tomorrow. And I don’t want to be without you tomorrow.”

“Abbie, I had no idea what this would be. You have to believe I didn’t know it was you I was looking for. This, us, it means everything to me. I didn’t expect this.”

 

The beauty of Kate Stewart’s writing is that she never writes the same story twice. It’s so refreshing and it makes me excited for whatever comes next from her. This is simply an amazing real, full of heart and feels and I loved every second of it. I absolutely recommend!!

 

“But just so you know, you and me, we are absolute.”





*An ARC was generously provided by the author and Wordsmith Publicity in exchange for an honest review

 


Buy it Here: Amazon US / Amazon UK / Amazon CA


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Profile Image for Alba and Her Secrets..♥.
857 reviews1,143 followers
April 20, 2018
5+ 'We are absolute' Stars!
ARC provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.


Who would have imagined a simple “Hi” in a computer screen would be the start of an epic love story? Well, I knew it because Kate Stewart is the author behind it. I have the most huge crush on her, seriously! Her words just make me feel. With her novels I feel, I love and I connect. Her books are just something out of this world and The Real was no exception. This novel is pure PERFECTION. It was everything I expected (and I do have crazy high expectations with this lady!) and so much more.

So, The Real is Kate Stewart’s newest standalone release and it’s the journey into a mind-blowing love story. Abby and Cameron, our main characters, have baggage from their pasts. Abby is very reluctant to accept Cameron’s advances but who is able to say no to the King of Woo himself? So, these two decide to leave their pasts at the door and just enjoy their present as two people who have connected in a very special way. They start a relationship, it’s all about the sexual tension and the adorable and quirky moments. It’s all about the off-the-fucking-charts sex and the romance. Of course, they fall head over heels in love. That is when things get a little bit grey in a world that seemed to have plenty of colors. Will Abby and Cameron survive it? Let’s find out!

A kiss can be an introduction, statement, and a promise. I plan to make all three when you let me.

Yes. Yes, I rated another of Kate’s books with my special rating. And you all know what that means, am I right? It means this book could not get any better. It means this genius of an author gave us another excellent piece of contemporary romance. It means she has written an outstanding love story with two brilliant and complex main characters. It means humor, sexual tension, smoking hot sex, surprises and lots of emotions. I mean, if you have read anything by Kate Stewart before, you know you are about to experience something magical. And it’s obvious the woman did not disappoint.

If karma and fate truly existed, I would make the exception and believe in them for the sake of us.

“Abbie, I had no idea what this would be. You have to believe I didn’t know it was you I was looking for. This, us, it means everything to me. I didn’t expect this.”


I felt an instant connection with this story. I fell in love with Abby and Cameron on the very first page. Their relationship is.. there is no word to describe it. I loved how they get to know each other, I loved their funny and adorable moments in the café, I loved the heat of their sexual attraction, I loved how Cameron wooed Abby (he definitely deserves his title as King of Woo!), I loved the honeymoon phase of their love story (man, THE SEX!), I loved seeing them fall in love and yes, I loved how emotional it got (even though I wanted to kill Kate when THAT happened). This novel has everything that makes it an epic love story. I connected with every aspect in it and I enjoyed the heck out of it to the very last word.

Love is only meant for the brave.

Therefore, my rating for The Real is 5+ STARS because, as I said, it could not get any better. This novel is an excellent piece of writing with two main characters that competely stole my heart. Abbie and Cameron's love story is not an easy one but it's beautiful, adorable and oh-so-sexy: trust me, you don't want to miss reading it because it was simply the perfect romance. Kate, well done girl! You keep killing it! And get ready to be wooed, ladies!

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Profile Image for Deanna❤Pink Lady❤️.
820 reviews847 followers
April 13, 2018
5 “Wooing” Stars


The Real is as real as it gets. It’s a sweet old fashion kind of love story. Where the art of “Wooing -to seek the affection or love of someone, usually a woman” is beautiful played out by Cameron Bledsoe when he meets Abbie Garmon at a coffee shop with the aid of airdrop between MacBooks. A simple “Hi” and their journey begins.

In any type of love story, the slow build up between characters is crucial. It must feel Real and True. Cameron and Abbie, with the help of their friends and family, create a wonderful journey of love and HEA. It’s funny, hesitant, heartbreaking and loving. These characters are in their 30’s. They have baggage but when they meet, they decide to check that baggage at the door and live in the moment. The story of how a man woos a woman, respectfully and patiently. Doesn’t push but follows her lead. Let’s it play out according to her rules. But sometimes rules have consequences......

I’m not gonna say more about the story. One should just read the blurb and jump in. But there’s always a catch, no love is ever perfect. There are always hiccups and road blocks. But when Love is Real, love finds a way to win. And The Real is the read deal. I loved the slow burn, I loved the secondary characters, I loved the pace of the story, I loved Cameron and his chivalry, and I loved Abbie and her strength and quirkiness. And what I absolutely adored was The Art of Wooing. It should never be lost and to read it in a book and see a hero be a true King of Woo.....it was perfection!!!

I highly recommend!!!
#KingOfWoo #WitchyWoman #TheRealDeal

*advanced copy provided in exchange for an honest review*


Profile Image for Jessica Hull.
935 reviews657 followers
April 9, 2018
Where do I even begin? I loved this book SO MUCH but for entirely different reasons than I loved Drive. Drive was my very first Kate Stewart novel and it was one of my absolute favorite books from last year. So naturally I was not only anxious for more of that angsty deliciousness but I couldn't help but compare The Real to my only other experience with Stewart's work. If I'm being completely honest, there was also a brief moment where I grew worried that The Real wouldn't live up to the expectations I had set for it after how much I loved Drive. But I couldn't have been more off base. This book is angsty and emotional in an entirely different way. It's so much more unforgettable and beautiful and utterly fantastic than anything I could've hoped for. And Kate Stewart's writing on these pages is even more exquisite than I remembered.

This is such a beautiful story. This is such an important story. This is an unforgettable romance, a story so sweet my heart was bursting. But it's also a profoundly REAL story, one that portrays a dynamic that is devastatingly relevant. I was anticipating angst and heartache and a bumpy, tumultuous, emotional journey. And The Real IS all of those things. But straight out of the gate, Kate Stewart set the stage for a romance that would be so different from anything I could've predicted. For much of it, The Real is adorably sweet, blissfully romantic, and so so so heartwarming. It's peppered with humor and sharp banter that had me laughing out loud. I wanted to curl up and roll around in all the warmth and delicious sweetness Stewart delivered in much of this book. But then the story started twisting and turning and breaking in directions I never saw coming and I was completely and utterly ruined.

It wasn't so much the shocking twist that makes this storyline the heartbreaking experience that it is. It's the truths that come out after the fact. It's the longing and the loss and the grief these characters endure. It's the moments of pure desperation that completely gutted me. It's the stark contrast between the blissfully romantic build of this love story and the devastating fall into heartbreak. It. Is. Everything. It's the images of Cameron's devastation that I can't stop seeing in my head. It's the palpable heartache I could feel and breathe and taste right along with Abbie. It's the beauty of coffee house chats and the memories of brutal goodbyes and it's the hilarious friendships and the sexiest moments and it's dancing in the snow and first kisses and zoned out neighbors and horrific revelations. It's all these unbelievably breathtaking things culminating into one phenomenally captivating story that I can't even tell you how much I LOVED. This book was fantastic. This book embodies why I read romance. This book is an ABSOLUTE must read, a torrent of so many emotions that I hated to endure and yet couldn't get enough of. It's a profoundly important storyline and I adored it more than I can possibly say. Cameron is hands down one of the most delicious leading men I've read in ages and I don't even want to share him with anyone else. But together he and Abbie make for a story that MUST be told, a story that broke my heart and put it back together, a story that BLEW ME AWAY. I loved this book so hard and I can't wait to reread it immediately.
Profile Image for Kelli C .
1,046 reviews356 followers
April 16, 2018
*5 Stars for Wicker Park!*

I feel like it has been ages since I have been on GRs, due to personal health issues I have been away from reading and removed from reviewing completely. When given the opportunity to read a Kate Stewart book, I knew I could do it. I knew she would give me something to be joyful about. I knew I would find a story worthy of my time. She did not disappoint.

The Real is just another book by Kate Stewart that shows her ability to flat out write. From erotica to rom-com, she seems to shine in any genre. This book was a risk for her as many may perceive this kind of romance to be done before, however the way in which this author delivers her story, you just cannot help but be pulled into something new. The Real is a love story where two characters meet and find a slow burning passion that makes you turn each page cautiously as if you were in the story. I found myself laughing out loud, feeling giddy, desperately wanting more, and nervously waiting for the big moment...the oh-no or oh-yes to happen. I was captivated by two beautifully fun people who made coffee and instant messaging seem so sexy as normal as it is!

While I would love to give a summary and tid-bits of this and that, I feel like this is a book that a reader should just dive into. Abbie and Cameron had no idea how a friendly yet sexy smile in a coffee shop would create one of my favorite love stories filled with slow burning desire, witty charm, and unexpected heartbreak.

Kudos to Kate Stewart for upping the ante or continuing to set the bar high. With unforgettable characters she keeps developing complex plots and then delivers the just right amount of passion, angst and charm to make the story stay on the mind hours upon hours after reading.

**I was provided and ARC copy per author!**
Profile Image for Carol.
1,347 reviews247 followers
June 9, 2018
3.5 stars 🌟🌟🌟

Sadly not my favorite book by Kate Stewart.
Once I finished it though, I realized that I liked the overall story and the message it sent out quite a lot.
However in reading it, I struggled a bit.
Essentially I see it as a book in three parts-1 sweet. 2 sexy .3 angst.
The first part where Cameron and Abbie meet was initially entertaining but then I started to lose interest with the online chatter and wanted more. 🌟🌟
Then in part two, their relationship deepens and becomes more intimate. However I still felt like something was missing but it was definitely more enjoyable reading. 🌟🌟🌟
Hail, part three. Finally we get to unleash the hidden secrets and a ton of angst. Now, I truly am interested and it starts to becomes very quick reading. I also get that connection that was sadly missing/lacking throughout the first: two thirds of this book. I also got to appreciate how much of a perfect match Cameron and Abbie are for each other. I absolutely loved the ending and super sweet epilogue. 🌟🌟🌟🌟
Hopefully, I am not making this review way too complicated or confusing. I am just trying to convey to other readers that might struggle initially that it is worth pushing onward with this book to see the whole picture. She really saved the best for last!!!!
Also I want to give credit to Kate Stewart for the master storyteller that she is . 💗
Profile Image for AC Book Blog .
979 reviews130 followers
April 13, 2018
THE REAL by KATE STEWART ~ 6 STARS

“It was his name that wrote itself across by heart; it was his eyes that spoke to my soul.”

Is it possible to love the book even harder the second time around? HELL YES!!!! Kate Stewart blew it out of the park with this one. Truly magnificent. The Real is phenomenal, unique, unforgettable, and well… REAL.

This author continues to blow my mind with every book that comes out. She is such a versatile and unique writer – you never know what you are going to get. Lucky for me, I really get her – her words, her thoughts, and her stories cut me deep every time. Honestly, rating a book is very simple for me. There are 2 categories: books that are fun, romantic, sexy, and entertaining. And then there are books that have all that, plus the WOW factor. Those are the stories that leave a mark, stories that contribute to my life lessons, stories that have deep meaning, pushing the limits and sometimes controversial. Love it or hate it. One thing is certain - these authors are phenomenal and Kate Stewart is among them.

“Love by its definition is a lie, its true definition is work and a fuck lot of it. It also means so much more than that one syllable. It’s a one-word representation of everything that can make or break a person. Love is only meant for the brave.”

I was thinking just the other day I was so sad of the lack of romance these days, where people favor instant gratification and sex, especially with the easy access to tinder.com or match.com. I feel like I am old school and cannot relate to what the younger generation is doing – meet, hook up, and move along. So, the Real is a breath of fresh air for me – it brings back the simple dates, the wooing, the chasing, the romance. Abbie and Cameron met at a coffee shop and their relationship started with a Mac airdrop conversation (totally original idea). They talked. They got to know each other. They went on dates, fell in love, and the physical part started later. Abbie is beautiful, sweet, quirky, and a bit weird (with her obsession in serial killers 😊). She is honest with a no bullshit attitude, albeit a bit cynical and jaded. She learned the hard way with a douche bag ex but I am so freaking glad the author made her a strong heroine. She is successful and independent - I think young girls these days need strong women role models and I can see it in Abbie in spades.

“The only thing that could trump you today, Abbie, is you tomorrow. And I don’t want to be without you tomorrow.”

Cameron is just freaking SWOONS. Everything you ever appreciate in a hero – the King of Woo. He is patient, kind, caring, thoughtful, and easy on the eyes -- just beautiful inside and out. I think Cameron and Abbie bring out the best in each other. I feel they are soul mates from the very start. They are the living proof that romance isn’t dead and true love exists. The kind of love that is unconditional and absolute.

Of course, every relationship goes through hills and valleys. I was blown away by a big twist to the plot. Completely took my breath away but that’s just Kate. She has a power of render you speechless and keep you glued to the story. My heart was dying … but there was an important message conveyed and it definitely worth the attention. In the end, no one is perfect and everything in life is NOT so back and white. Trust me!!! You must read the story to understand its entirety.

“I’m still there, where we were. You’re in my veins, Abbie. You should know that. I’ll never stop loving you.”
“Look at me. This is me at my worst. Please don’t do this to us.”
“I didn’t do this.”
“You’re right. I did. Love me anyway.”


I love that this story got all the feels – funny, sweet, emotional, plenty of angst, sexual tension, passionate sex scenes and intense romance. I was crying buckets with the visit to mom’s grave scene – shit! The author slayed me there! That is another thing I love about this book - the close relationships both Abbie and Cameron have for their families and friends (someone you completely love and trust) - that is a rarity these days. Love all the secondary characters especially Bree. There are also a lot of light-hearted moments and hilarious banters between Abbie and Cameron. The epilogue is just PERFECT – left a permanent smile on my face. I couldn’t ask for a better ending.

“But just so you know, you and me, we are absolute.”

This story really moved me and I am certain others too. I am a huge fan of Kate Stewart from the beginning. She continues to evolve as an author. She takes risks with her stories and the Real just upped the bar - emotionally charged, passionate, heartfelt … a beautiful love story. The writing is seamless, magnificent and music to my ears!

Love is for the brave, right? Well Kate, you are brave my friend!

Profile Image for aNneMarLi - Chatterbooks Book Blog.
416 reviews291 followers
June 27, 2018
I am enamored by The King of Woo and his Witchy!

There's just books really that you can't help but be fascinated and amazed. Not because it was the most unique book you have ever come across but because with it's simplicity, comes ALL THE FEELS that made it EPIC and SURREAL.

That was The Real for me by Kate Stewart. Goodness, this author can definitely write and touch you with her words. I love it to bits of pieces as I have yet again given a chance to ride a journey I did not just enjoy but became a part of. Cameron and Abbie affected me so much. I felt an immediate connection to both of them and I was intrigued with their journey that I devour it hungrily never putting the book down once. I am not a patient person. Never was and never will. But I was loving the slow burn romance this book depicted. I patienly waited when these characters will crack. I patiently waited for a love that I know will turn my world upside down. I am very happy that I did, because savouring it meant I get to savour every emotions Kate wanted to deliver to her readers.

Yes! ALL THE FEELS and MORE was what this book offered me. Every single word and lines were packed full of emotions that made me root for the characters even more. I love their depth and dynamics and most importantly, I love how they were crafted because they made me feel a lot. I adore both of them and more than anybody else they deserve all the love in the world. That twist and turn had me wanting to throw my reader so bad 'cuz I can't explain what I'm feeling. I waited for whatever conflict will arise, but this was one I never saw coming. Wow! Just wow!no wonder why I keep on coming back for more of Kate's work. She's just brilliant and it motivated me to root for the story until the end.

Over and over again, Kate Stewart managed to amaze me. All this time she's my go to author and with her previous release that had me going crazy with the emotions that stirred and resonated me from deep within, I am more than thrilled to read The Real. I am even scared what this book is in store for me. Reading it blind was the best decison I have ever made as I had just had a wondrous journey I can't seem to let go. I tell you this, I can never look and think coffee and coffee cups the same way again. Because my jouney with the King of Woo and his Witchy is utterly THE REAL.

Great job Kate Stewart. I love The Real so much! It's deep and soul searing. You yet again proved how fantastic you are as an author. You did not just deliver us a story, you made us feel the story.
Profile Image for Lisa (Two Bookish Brits).
801 reviews165 followers
April 14, 2018
I’m completely, 100% in awe of this book. The title says it all, REAL. Their feelings, their troubles, heartbreaks, everything is so REAL that it leaves you feeling more than you could even expect. I laughed, I smiled and you better believe I freaking cried!

Received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

I don’t want to go to much in to detail or give anything away because no but I will say Abbie and Cameron story is a beautiful slow burn to get to know one another. Watching the storyline roll out was both beautiful and heartbreaking. I absolutely adored that they tried and tested each other’s fears and helped the other through it. I loved the twists and turns thrown in and I love the fact that they weren’t predictable because I sure as hell didn’t see them coming AT ALL.

Kate Stewart absolutely hits you in the face with this book. The storyline was something I’ve never read before but should be in MANY more books. It’s so common to read about a woman being affected the way the male character was and that, that was so important to this storyline. I liked that Kate chose to put the man in that situation and showed us it from his point of view. I think that’s one of the main things I loved about this book, men are so proud and like to protect their masculinity like it shows in the story but finding a person they trust enough to tell everything to is the hardest thing for them to do. Kate gave him a voice and that was a beautiful thing to read. Not only did Kate show us this side but she also showed us the main female’s past and that was interesting to read too. Both couples had their equal amount of crazy that they just fit perfectly.

I literally have no more words right now, I’m in shock at how much this touched me. Abbie the Witch Woman and Cameron the King of Woo will forever be in my heart. Characters as amazing as those two can never be forgotten. I truly wish I could give this beautiful romance I higher rating than 5 stars because I really would, it deserves all the stars and MORE.
Profile Image for Jo - •.★Reading Is My Bliss★.•.
2,415 reviews233 followers
April 11, 2018
When you are in a committed relationship with someone, married or not there is always those lovely warm feelings of hope, that this is the person you were meant to be with. Everyone wants to find their one, their something real. However, life is not a fairy tale and things don’t always work out that way.

I know couples who have split up / divorced and fallen in love with someone else. They are the same people inside but can be someone quite different in the new relationship. Like the relationship they were in first with was preparing them for the person they were meant to be with. I don’t mean that in disrespect to the previous partner but sometimes it just happens.

‘I’m a bit of a believer we can’t evolve with those we start relationships with when we aren’t full bloom unless you are capable of growing together.’

Abbie has been in a really bad relationship and made it out the other side. It left its mark on her though and she has very little interest in meeting another guy. Trust is a big thing for her and it would take someone pretty amazing to persuade her to take a chance at love again.

‘Only a man can make you feel like you have the world one minute and take it away the next. And they only have that power because we give it to them.’

Cameron has his own baggage that he would rather not share with anyone else but when he lays eyes on Abbie in a coffee shop he decides to take a chance and introduce himself. A simple ‘hi’ on Mac airdrop opens the door on hope and possibilities with this beautiful woman he has been admiring from afar.

Abbie is very skeptical of Cameron at first but after a couple of months of messaging him across the coffee shop she finds the courage to take the next step. These two are so incredibly sweet together. Abbie is a bit goofy and Cameron finds it very endearing. She is also compassionate and kind, something that he finds very admirable. He is the king of wooing and makes her feel beautiful.

They have this amazing energy and connection, like the have known each other all their lives. It’s crazy really. The sexual chemistry is ridiculous and they just can’t keep their hands off each other. These two are falling fast and completely perfect for each other. However, one of the rules that Abbie had right at the start was to leave all baggage at the door. She does not want to talk about her past and in doing so she is telling him not to share his either. If she only knew how much that was going to bite them in the arse later.

It was time to go to baggage claim and unpack, not knowing how things would look inside but hopeful that the strength of what they had been building would be enough to cope with what they would discover.

‘Was our love made in the gray area? And did we have enough of it left to see it for what it truly was when it came into the light?

Another fabulous read from Kate that had me attached to my kindle. I love that the characters were in their 30’s with some life experience under their belts. No pun intended but the story felt very real and I am sure that what happens in this book is more common in every day life than people realise.
Profile Image for Katy Loves Romance ❤️.
434 reviews753 followers
April 10, 2018
5 Cameron Woo’d me Stars*****

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WOW JUST WOW!! I don’t even know to begin to review this book. I’ve only recently started to read Kate’s work not that I didn’t know of her but I never got round to it. Then I fell in love with her writing last year and I can tell you this will grip you like nothing else. This story is EVERYTHING.

What’s it about?
This is an epic love story of all proportions.. I was gripped to the pages from the beginning.. I was wooed by Cameron just like Abbie was. This begins where they build a relationship with cups of coffee and their laptops in a coffee shop, they got to know each other from the basics and fell in the way Romance is supposed to be.. meaning they wrote to each other without anything else getting in the way.. oh my goodness how I fell for Cameron he is a sexy man but also a man with a huge heart, you can do nothing but be woo’d by him, feel his heart shine through.. ‘Oh my’ I just loved his whole character. And then there’s Abbie a girl who is slightly quirky and ‘witchy’ but needed to be woo’d gradually.. ahh I’m not going to say anything else about the plot just know that you need to go into this book BLIND. Fall for their romance, and their love.. with some shock horror moments expect to be wowed and enjoy the story that Kate magically tangles into your heart.

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I will lastly say that this is true Romance at the heart of this story, bottom line!! And this is why I love this genre. Sometimes you get tangled into their story so much you can’t breathe. And guys that’s EXACTLY how I felt while I read this.. (I went to sleep at 5am woops) but it was soooo worth it.. I will always from now on read Kate Stewart..

Enjoy loves Xoxo

ARC generously gifted in exchange for a honest review

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