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Against the Wall #1
Against the Wall
Shelly Gelson had it all...a job teaching English at Carver High, her best friend Mel working by her side and she's engaged to her high school sweetheart Chase Marino. That is until Chase breaks her heart and leaves her for another teacher at the school. Now Shel is left broken-hearted and trying to figure out what she wants while watching Chase and the home wrecker make moon eyes at each other. Enter Matt Fuller, Shel's friend for the past 5 years and the perfect rebound. He's gorgeous, smart, funny and fits into Shel's idea of the right guy. Only problem is there may be more there than just a simple rebound. Is it a way to fill a void left by Chase, or is there more smoldering between these two friends? Find out what happens when the bell rings and the teenage drama ends and the adult drama begins. Who says being a teacher is boring? They obviously haven't met the teachers at Carver High.
Warning: this book contains the following adult content.
Sex and nudity: Yes!
Profanity: Hell yes!
Alcohol: That too!
Warning: this book contains the following adult content.
Sex and nudity: Yes!
Profanity: Hell yes!
Alcohol: That too!
304 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 20, 2012
About the author
Julie Prestsater
28 books1,139 followersI'm a mom, a wife, a teacher, a reader, and a writer. I'm also an lunatic when it comes to the NFL and playing Fantasy football, especially if I don't get my first pick quarterback: Tony Romo. When I'm not at home or work, you can probably catch me on the 15 freeway singing my heart out and dancing away in my car.
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July 10, 2015
FREE on Amazon US today (7/9/2015)
Stand-alone book 1.
BLURB:
Shelly Gelson had it all...a job teaching English at Carver High, her best friend Mel working by her side and she's engaged to her high school sweetheart Chase Marino. That is until Chase breaks her heart and leaves her for another teacher at the school. Now Shel is left broken-hearted and trying to figure out what she wants while watching Chase and the home wrecker make moon eyes at each other.
Enter Matt Fuller, Shel's friend for the past 5 years and the perfect rebound. He's gorgeous, smart, funny and fits into Shel's idea of the right guy. Only problem is there may be more there than just a simple rebound. Is it a way to fill a void left by Chase, or is there more smoldering between these two friends? Find out what happens when the bell rings and the teenage drama ends and the adult drama begins. Who says being a teacher is boring? They obviously haven't met the teachers at Carver High.
Warning: this book contains the following adult content.
Sex and nudity: Yes!
Profanity: Hell yes!
Alcohol: That too!
http://www.amazon.com/Against-Wall-Ju...
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October 23, 2013
3.5 Stars. This was a nice, quick, funny, LOL read. Enjoyed it.
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SLÁINTE!
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AGAINST
SLÁINTE!
March 21, 2017
2.5 Stars.
The story was a little bit too long and too chick litty for my taste, but enjoyable overall.
The story was a little bit too long and too chick litty for my taste, but enjoyable overall.
October 22, 2013
4 stars
Three months, you'd thing that would be enough time to get over your ex, but it clearly isn't, confused whether it was a broken heart she was nursing or her pride?!? Her asshat of an ex broke off their engagement the day he decided to trade her in for a shinier model
What makes it even harder to get over him and move on, they all work together at the local high school. It's like they never left, caught up in all the high school drama, rumors spreading like wild fire, courtesy of their students
Shel needs to move on, get laid, something, ‘cause the rate she’s going, cobwebs will need to be cleaned up down there. With the help of her friend, Mel, but how does one choose Mr. Right ??? good thing she has a fool proof way to find out based on the beer the man drinks…
Matty has been one of Shel’s best friend but she’s starting to see him as more than a friend, does she want to risk losing his friendship? Does she want to get involved with another teacher at school? Hell Yes! The only problem, Matty’s been waiting for his chance, and he refuses to sleep with Shel just for the hell of it, he wants her to be 100% sure that he’s the one for her, just as he’s sure she’s the girl for him, luckily there are other things they can do while they wait...
Against the Wall was a fun lighthearted read, predictable but enjoyable. Shel cracked me up, Mel was a trip and Matty was a total sweetheart. I'm so glad I picked this one up and it was a freebie too! Can’t wait to see what else the author has on her shelf :)
I want a man who loves me enough to nail me against the wall.
Three months, you'd thing that would be enough time to get over your ex, but it clearly isn't, confused whether it was a broken heart she was nursing or her pride?!? Her asshat of an ex broke off their engagement the day he decided to trade her in for a shinier model
My ex-almostthefatherofmychildren. My ex-happilyeverafter. My ex-fiancé. My ex who left me for that Kim Kardashian butt double, Ms. McGallian.
What makes it even harder to get over him and move on, they all work together at the local high school. It's like they never left, caught up in all the high school drama, rumors spreading like wild fire, courtesy of their students
“Hey, so according to C-High’s very own gossip channel, I hear we’re fucking each other’s brains out.”
“Cool. Are you enjoying it as much as I am?” he jokes.
“Oh, so much more,” I tease.
Shel needs to move on, get laid, something, ‘cause the rate she’s going, cobwebs will need to be cleaned up down there. With the help of her friend, Mel, but how does one choose Mr. Right ??? good thing she has a fool proof way to find out based on the beer the man drinks…
“So a guy could be like nasty looking, I’m talking warts on his nose, big ole ears, and dandruff flaking out of his hair, and as long as he was drinking, let’s say, Guinness, he’d fall in the 'man of your dreams' category?” he asks, lifting his arms to hang his air quotes.
I laugh at his list of yucky traits. Looking into his crystal blue eyes, I tell him, “Yes.”
“But what if said Guinness was perfectly matched in a pint with a lighter beer … such as Bass?” Matty lowers his eyes at me in anticipation of my response.
I lean forward in my seat, lost in his playful gaze. “Even better.”
Matty has been one of Shel’s best friend but she’s starting to see him as more than a friend, does she want to risk losing his friendship? Does she want to get involved with another teacher at school? Hell Yes! The only problem, Matty’s been waiting for his chance, and he refuses to sleep with Shel just for the hell of it, he wants her to be 100% sure that he’s the one for her, just as he’s sure she’s the girl for him, luckily there are other things they can do while they wait...
“So you’re confident I’ll fall in love with you?” I ask, teasingly.
He pauses , staring into my eyes. “Never been so confident in anything or anyone in my life.” He kisses my nose.
“You’re serious, aren’t you?” I utter.
“As a heart attack,” he says, with sincerity written all over his face. I bite my lip. He is so dead serious.
Against the Wall was a fun lighthearted read, predictable but enjoyable. Shel cracked me up, Mel was a trip and Matty was a total sweetheart. I'm so glad I picked this one up and it was a freebie too! Can’t wait to see what else the author has on her shelf :)
October 10, 2013
This book was funny, cute, funny, sweet, funny, romantic, and did I mention funny? I loved Shelly and Mel's sense of humor. Reminded me so much of me and my bestie. And Matty, God, could you be any sweeter?!
Shel's fiance, Chase, has called it quits after 10 years of an on again, off again relationship. They are both teachers and work at the same school. She doesn't know how she is going to get over him when she sees him everyday with his new girlfriend who is also a teacher.
Matty and Shel have been friends for awhile. He knows that he wants to be more than friends but she is having a hard time moving on.
"When we make love for the first time, I want you to love me...entirely, and only me."
Matty, you are seriously the sweetest, most unselfish man ever!
As always, there are a few obstacles for them to work through, but they have such a great relationship with lots of humor, it was enjoyable to read. Sure, it was a little corny, but hey, it worked for me! LOL!
I finally found a man who loves me enough to nail me against the wall.
February 26, 2013
Funny, sexy, funny, witty, funny, adorable, did I mention FUNNY!
This was a book dream for me, easy peasy, no kindle clenching angst or weird over the top cliff hangers in sight. Instead a witty love story, throw in great friendships, plenty of beer and enough sweetness to appease any romanceoholic and you get this polished little number.
One very pleased girl and ... 3 respectable stars.
This was a book dream for me, easy peasy, no kindle clenching angst or weird over the top cliff hangers in sight. Instead a witty love story, throw in great friendships, plenty of beer and enough sweetness to appease any romanceoholic and you get this polished little number.
One very pleased girl and ... 3 respectable stars.
November 30, 2014
3 Stars
I thought this was good, just good. Before I continue, I just couldn't get over the hero's name. Matty...Matty?? Can't swoon over Matty, especially cause 13 Going on 30 just got stuck in my head.
And then I can't get Thriller out of my head...damn you book.
I liked the crude humor, and potty mouth heroine. A lot of the drama seemed very far-fetched but its a book right? Heroine's shitty fellow teacher boyfriend dumped her and starts dating fellow slutbag teacher. She can't find her mojo again but then suddenly realizes her even more hot teacher friend, cringe, M.A.T.T.Y is where its at. Matty is sweet, perfect, and amazing and it wrapped up nicely. Think its a series as well with the other characters stories next.
Overall, it was a decent, light read. Not bad for a freebie.
I thought this was good, just good. Before I continue, I just couldn't get over the hero's name. Matty...Matty?? Can't swoon over Matty, especially cause 13 Going on 30 just got stuck in my head.
And then I can't get Thriller out of my head...damn you book.
I liked the crude humor, and potty mouth heroine. A lot of the drama seemed very far-fetched but its a book right? Heroine's shitty fellow teacher boyfriend dumped her and starts dating fellow slutbag teacher. She can't find her mojo again but then suddenly realizes her even more hot teacher friend, cringe, M.A.T.T.Y is where its at. Matty is sweet, perfect, and amazing and it wrapped up nicely. Think its a series as well with the other characters stories next.
Overall, it was a decent, light read. Not bad for a freebie.
December 1, 2012
3.5 to 4 stars. Rounded up because it left me in a feel good kinda mood
This book's probably not everyone's cuppa, but it made me laugh the entire time I was reading it and that's really all I was looking for. It's overly sarcastic, bitchy in all the best ways and I really enjoyed it. My only real complaint was Matt, or Matty. The name Matty reminds me of a toddler so I'm just going to go with Matt. He was a little too perfect, beta, understanding and I kept looking for a flaw, any flaw, that might make him seem a little more believable. I don't need all of my fictional men to be alpha badasses, but Matt just seemed too good to be true. In the grand scheme of things, a man that seems too perfect really isn't much to complain about. I'd recommend this to anyone looking for a quick, funny and in no way serious kind of read.
This book's probably not everyone's cuppa, but it made me laugh the entire time I was reading it and that's really all I was looking for. It's overly sarcastic, bitchy in all the best ways and I really enjoyed it. My only real complaint was Matt, or Matty. The name Matty reminds me of a toddler so I'm just going to go with Matt. He was a little too perfect, beta, understanding and I kept looking for a flaw, any flaw, that might make him seem a little more believable. I don't need all of my fictional men to be alpha badasses, but Matt just seemed too good to be true. In the grand scheme of things, a man that seems too perfect really isn't much to complain about. I'd recommend this to anyone looking for a quick, funny and in no way serious kind of read.
December 9, 2015
DNF at 50%
This is some next level bullshit boring story. I can't... I'm done.
This is some next level bullshit boring story. I can't... I'm done.
February 26, 2013
This is what I call book candy. Julie Prestsater has a fun, flirty style about her that makes you turn the pages. I'm not a huge fan of first person books, and I'm always impressed when an author can carry an entire story from one character's point of view. Not only will you cheer on Matt and Shell, you'll probably never pick up a wine cooler again.
I found myself craving rice krispy treats and beer throughout this book.
And I don't drink beer.
Well played, Julie. Well played.
I found myself craving rice krispy treats and beer throughout this book.
And I don't drink beer.
Well played, Julie. Well played.
December 31, 2012
A fun romp between two high school teachers. Cute and witty dialogue and a yummy hero who offers a perfect happily ever after to his heroine.
March 1, 2013
I just finished reading this book and I absolutely loved it. There are many possibilities why I loved this book:
Maybe because the main characters were teachers (which is my occupation) and I loved some of the inner monologue of Shelly. Shelly just had the right mixture of snarkiness, fun, loyalty, and I just wanted to be her friend.
Maybe because Mr. Fowler was a total hottie. I don't know what world these male teachers came from (fantasy world), but where I teach there are no hot male teachers. Seriously, this book had me questioning if a hot male teacher was like the elusive unicorn. Doesn't matter because I was loving Mr. Fowler.
Maybe because Melly Belly, Shel's bff had a wonderful, mischievous personality to match Shel. Or maybe, just possibly, because this was a fantastically, fun read. I loved every minute.
The writing was funtasitc. I totally laughed out loud with Shel's musings about a teaching reality show:
"The Real Teachers of Carver High. Can you imagine? That would be stinking awesome. I'd actually watch reality TV for once. A bunch of teachers sitting around throwing back glasses of beer and wine, talking crap about their students who pissed them off today, or about what Johnny's mom was wearing to the parent conference. Haha. It would be a blast."
Here's another gem. I teach language arts and this part felt like something pulled straight from my thoughts. "Teaching English can really facilitate the need to party. Reading paper after paper written by kids in high school who still can't decipher when to use to, too, and two or who still don't know A LOT is two words is a joke. Couple that with this insane era of technology and the need for students to write like they're sending a text message or updating their Twitter status can really drive a person to drink. Heavily." LOL. I have had some similar rantings while grading writing assignments. I just had to snicker at these wonderful insights. My inner teacher just couldn't get enough of the funny references aimed at the profession. I guess that was one of the reasons I liked this book so much. It was like "Yes, this author gets it". It was clever, laugh out loud funny, romantic, and thoughtful. I couldn't have asked for a better way to spend my precious time ( I am a teacher, you know, I could have been grading papers or something).
Maybe because the main characters were teachers (which is my occupation) and I loved some of the inner monologue of Shelly. Shelly just had the right mixture of snarkiness, fun, loyalty, and I just wanted to be her friend.
Maybe because Mr. Fowler was a total hottie. I don't know what world these male teachers came from (fantasy world), but where I teach there are no hot male teachers. Seriously, this book had me questioning if a hot male teacher was like the elusive unicorn. Doesn't matter because I was loving Mr. Fowler.
Maybe because Melly Belly, Shel's bff had a wonderful, mischievous personality to match Shel. Or maybe, just possibly, because this was a fantastically, fun read. I loved every minute.
The writing was funtasitc. I totally laughed out loud with Shel's musings about a teaching reality show:
"The Real Teachers of Carver High. Can you imagine? That would be stinking awesome. I'd actually watch reality TV for once. A bunch of teachers sitting around throwing back glasses of beer and wine, talking crap about their students who pissed them off today, or about what Johnny's mom was wearing to the parent conference. Haha. It would be a blast."
Here's another gem. I teach language arts and this part felt like something pulled straight from my thoughts. "Teaching English can really facilitate the need to party. Reading paper after paper written by kids in high school who still can't decipher when to use to, too, and two or who still don't know A LOT is two words is a joke. Couple that with this insane era of technology and the need for students to write like they're sending a text message or updating their Twitter status can really drive a person to drink. Heavily." LOL. I have had some similar rantings while grading writing assignments. I just had to snicker at these wonderful insights. My inner teacher just couldn't get enough of the funny references aimed at the profession. I guess that was one of the reasons I liked this book so much. It was like "Yes, this author gets it". It was clever, laugh out loud funny, romantic, and thoughtful. I couldn't have asked for a better way to spend my precious time ( I am a teacher, you know, I could have been grading papers or something).
August 3, 2012
Spoiler Free Review
3.5 STARS
Genre:Adult Contemporary Romance
The Teachers at Carver High have lives just as drama filled as the students. In Against The Wall
Brief Summary
Shelly Gelson and Chase Marino have been off and on since high school. They recently just ended their ten year relationship. Shelly is heartbroken and now must face Chase everyday at work since they both teach at Carver High. WTF! Right. Then to top it off he is dating another teacher at the school. Lovely just lovely...
Matt Fuller is good friends with Shelly and would love to take their friendship to another place. Only thing is he wants her heart to be in it, NOT attached to her ex.
Can these two find love and is their friendship worth risking if they can't?
Thoughts
Melanie is awesome i cannot wait for her book. I think Matt and Shelly made a cute couple things got steamy quick with those two.lol! I also enjoyed the teacher interaction it was like i had a behind the scenes view.
I love love love Julie's Double Threat series so of course i had to check out her Adult Contemp Romance. Well she did not disappoint. I enjoyed this read and i will continue with the series. I love Julie's writing Style she keeps it Honest and fun and i am very much in favor of that.
My Ratings
Characters- Likeable
Writing Style- Good and Humor filled
Plot/Storyline- Good
Steam Factor- Medium/Moderately Steamy
Overall- I liked it!
3.5 STARS
Genre:Adult Contemporary Romance
The Teachers at Carver High have lives just as drama filled as the students. In Against The Wall
Brief Summary
Shelly Gelson and Chase Marino have been off and on since high school. They recently just ended their ten year relationship. Shelly is heartbroken and now must face Chase everyday at work since they both teach at Carver High. WTF! Right. Then to top it off he is dating another teacher at the school. Lovely just lovely...
Matt Fuller is good friends with Shelly and would love to take their friendship to another place. Only thing is he wants her heart to be in it, NOT attached to her ex.
Can these two find love and is their friendship worth risking if they can't?
Thoughts
Melanie is awesome i cannot wait for her book. I think Matt and Shelly made a cute couple things got steamy quick with those two.lol! I also enjoyed the teacher interaction it was like i had a behind the scenes view.
I love love love Julie's Double Threat series so of course i had to check out her Adult Contemp Romance. Well she did not disappoint. I enjoyed this read and i will continue with the series. I love Julie's writing Style she keeps it Honest and fun and i am very much in favor of that.
My Ratings
Characters- Likeable
Writing Style- Good and Humor filled
Plot/Storyline- Good
Steam Factor- Medium/Moderately Steamy
Overall- I liked it!
April 2, 2013
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Every now and then I need a book to purge my brain of all the smut and drama I read about.
This book gave me a good smut purge! Lol! Love Shell! Love, Love Matt!! Although I wouldn't have tolerated any of that "not until you love me" nonsense! lol!! I'm kidding, it was very noble of him...
The relationship built between Matt and Shel awesome! Being friends first is always a good way to start a relationship!! This book is proof positive that sometimes the man of your dreams can literally be right under your nose!
These guys are also really funny, one of my favorite scene took place at a party.
Mel: "Damn Ty, I'm getting slizzard,"
Shelly: "Dumb ass, you don't have a G6. You can't get slizzard in a frickin' Prius."
LMAO!!!
Love them! Make sure you pick up this book! The love story and the friendships are beautiful definitely one of my favorites:)
Read More Reviews On Our Blog
Every now and then I need a book to purge my brain of all the smut and drama I read about.
This book gave me a good smut purge! Lol! Love Shell! Love, Love Matt!! Although I wouldn't have tolerated any of that "not until you love me" nonsense! lol!! I'm kidding, it was very noble of him...
The relationship built between Matt and Shel awesome! Being friends first is always a good way to start a relationship!! This book is proof positive that sometimes the man of your dreams can literally be right under your nose!
These guys are also really funny, one of my favorite scene took place at a party.
Mel: "Damn Ty, I'm getting slizzard,"
Shelly: "Dumb ass, you don't have a G6. You can't get slizzard in a frickin' Prius."
LMAO!!!
Love them! Make sure you pick up this book! The love story and the friendships are beautiful definitely one of my favorites:)
May 6, 2015
A light, fun and sexy read. It's refreshing to read a book these days that doesn't have a tortured hero, TSTL heroine in it and still enjoy it. This is definitely enjoyable. It dragged for me a little bit right in the middle but Shelly and Matty, her best friend Mel are really great characters. I'm so glad to read about a heroine who is actually comfortable in her own skin. Shelly and Mel are laugh-out-loud funny.
Overall, this book is great. I will definitely be reading Mel's story.
Overall, this book is great. I will definitely be reading Mel's story.
January 5, 2013
Matty Fuller is indeed too good to be true and Shelly at few times got my nerves on, if she's my friend I'd slap her for waiting that long to sort out her feelings.
I did enjoy reading it though, this is a sweet, romantic, predictable read. Nothing surprising there. Perfect when you're feeling mellow and super laid-back.
I did enjoy reading it though, this is a sweet, romantic, predictable read. Nothing surprising there. Perfect when you're feeling mellow and super laid-back.
August 2, 2017
reread 2017
read 2013
----
recommend! very good!
read 2013
----
recommend! very good!
December 23, 2014
cute, quick read love story
November 30, 2012
Slick's review posted on Guilty Pleasures Book Reviews
5 Stars
I really love when I run across a new to me author and I especially love it when I realize the author is self published and I get to introduce her on the website. Against The Wall by Julie Prestsater is one of the most enjoyable, funny, sexy, and laugh out loud funny books I’ve read in a long time. At 99 cents, this book is worth so much more. I can’t wait to read more from this talented woman who has several YA books out. Alas another writer who totally understands that teachers are real people who drink, dance, cuss, and yep…have sex! Oh, and we don’t live at school either…shocked aren’t you?
This book is written in first person and after reading the entire Rock Chick series, I’ve grown to love this style of writing. Julie’s words flow easily, and I immediately felt right at home in this book. I can envision walking down the halls of this high school and vividly imagine the gossip and innuendos. I can absolutely see myself thinking and saying some of the things Shelly does and enjoying every minute of it!
Shelly’s long time boyfriend and recent ex-fiancé, Chase, works at her school as well as the woman he’s currently dating. This leads to some very uncomfortable moments throughout the school day and makes her life pretty miserable. In her head Shelly knows it’s over, but her heart is having a hard time letting go. She decides it’s time to start dating and refuses to consider anyone she works with, after all she knows full well how hard it can be when things don’t work out. Trouble is her best friend, Melanie, and her good friend, Matty, have other ideas. Matty has harbored feelings for Shelly and decides it’s time to make a move.
These characters are entertaining, engaging, and people I could easily be friends with. There’s no doubt that Shelly is conflicted. She’s coming out of a relationship that has been on and off since junior high and she’s feeling something for someone she’s always considered a good friend. On top of that her ex keeps messing with her mind and Matty insists that she dates other people to make sure he’s what she wants. She doesn’t want to lose Matty’s friendship and worries that she might hurt him. She also ends up helping her friend Mel through a really bad time making her question relationships in general. Matty is a remarkable man that any woman in their right mind would want for their very own. He’s kind, considerate, and realizing Shelly is conflicted he gives her plenty of space to figure out what she wants but stays close at her request. I love that he encourages her to date other people and admire the fact that he won’t have sex with her until she admits she’s in love with him. That’s not to say they don’t push the boundaries, but actual sex they don’t have for a long time. Melanie, Shelly’s best friend is the best friend a girl can have. She’s there with a shoulder to cry on, a cold beer, and she gives some of the most hilarious and sage advice a friend needs to hear. Tyler, Shelly’s brother, is another great character and I can’t wait to read more about him in the next book.
From beginning to end this book is charming and smart. That’s not to say that Shelly and Matty didn’t have some problems to work through, but with the exception of one pretty big misstep on Matty’s part they handled them with humor, mutual respect, and maturity. This is an incredible story by a gifted author who no doubt will be climbing the bestseller charts in no time!
5 Stars
I really love when I run across a new to me author and I especially love it when I realize the author is self published and I get to introduce her on the website. Against The Wall by Julie Prestsater is one of the most enjoyable, funny, sexy, and laugh out loud funny books I’ve read in a long time. At 99 cents, this book is worth so much more. I can’t wait to read more from this talented woman who has several YA books out. Alas another writer who totally understands that teachers are real people who drink, dance, cuss, and yep…have sex! Oh, and we don’t live at school either…shocked aren’t you?
This book is written in first person and after reading the entire Rock Chick series, I’ve grown to love this style of writing. Julie’s words flow easily, and I immediately felt right at home in this book. I can envision walking down the halls of this high school and vividly imagine the gossip and innuendos. I can absolutely see myself thinking and saying some of the things Shelly does and enjoying every minute of it!
Shelly’s long time boyfriend and recent ex-fiancé, Chase, works at her school as well as the woman he’s currently dating. This leads to some very uncomfortable moments throughout the school day and makes her life pretty miserable. In her head Shelly knows it’s over, but her heart is having a hard time letting go. She decides it’s time to start dating and refuses to consider anyone she works with, after all she knows full well how hard it can be when things don’t work out. Trouble is her best friend, Melanie, and her good friend, Matty, have other ideas. Matty has harbored feelings for Shelly and decides it’s time to make a move.
These characters are entertaining, engaging, and people I could easily be friends with. There’s no doubt that Shelly is conflicted. She’s coming out of a relationship that has been on and off since junior high and she’s feeling something for someone she’s always considered a good friend. On top of that her ex keeps messing with her mind and Matty insists that she dates other people to make sure he’s what she wants. She doesn’t want to lose Matty’s friendship and worries that she might hurt him. She also ends up helping her friend Mel through a really bad time making her question relationships in general. Matty is a remarkable man that any woman in their right mind would want for their very own. He’s kind, considerate, and realizing Shelly is conflicted he gives her plenty of space to figure out what she wants but stays close at her request. I love that he encourages her to date other people and admire the fact that he won’t have sex with her until she admits she’s in love with him. That’s not to say they don’t push the boundaries, but actual sex they don’t have for a long time. Melanie, Shelly’s best friend is the best friend a girl can have. She’s there with a shoulder to cry on, a cold beer, and she gives some of the most hilarious and sage advice a friend needs to hear. Tyler, Shelly’s brother, is another great character and I can’t wait to read more about him in the next book.
From beginning to end this book is charming and smart. That’s not to say that Shelly and Matty didn’t have some problems to work through, but with the exception of one pretty big misstep on Matty’s part they handled them with humor, mutual respect, and maturity. This is an incredible story by a gifted author who no doubt will be climbing the bestseller charts in no time!
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May 11, 2013This one was almost a DNF for me after the first chapter. Ultimately I am glad that I continued but the book did have some problems.
FIrst of all if you read this you must be okay with a lot of rough language and brashness. The main character and her best friend reminded me a little of the characters from Tara Sivec's Chocolate Lovers series. That one was pretty brash with lots of cursing as well. That one was over the top because it was a romantic comedy and it helped the brashness work to some degree. In this book many of the characters came off as very immature instead. These people are supposed to be in the early 30s but they read like high schoolers sometimes.
Continuing on with this immaturity I find it really hard to believe that a bunch of teachers have a work party and act like they're at a frat party. If things had been ramped up more so this would have been over the top and farcical I might have seen it as a romantic comedy and accepted it more. But even though the main character had a sense of humor this still read like a contemporary fiction and made aspects like that a miss for me. Instead these people just seemed really immature. I also had to suspend my disbelief that so many of the teachers at this school are all so young, single and hot. Also, things at the end wrapped up way too neatly with her ex and the woman he cheated with. That wasn't believable.
I had a hard time connecting with Shelly's pining for her ex when she had such a great guy paying her attention. I never was one to pine so maybe that is just something that I personally couldn't relate to. Or maybe I just never got a good enough sense of what made Chase so hard to get over. It seemed much more like a comfortable relationship that felt safe rather than anything more between the two.
The main thing that saved this book was Matty. He was perfect and sweet. You can't help but root for this guy. Maybe part of why I couldn't connect with Shelly is because she was so slow to let go of the past when she had such an incredible guy. Yes, I know a lot of people are like that and timing is everything. Still it fed the overall immaturity thing that I felt about Shelly. Matt was almost too good but I love good guys like him so I won't complain. I loved how the author showed that not every guy has to view a girl as a conquest or have slept with all kinds of women until they settle down with the *one*. Matt had values and principles and he stuck to them. It was nice to see this represented as I think there are lots of guys like this. It made him even more swoon worthy.
I also liked how the book made fun of how so many romance books and movies show a couple together against the wall with the guy holding the girl in the throws of passion. I can't tell how many books I have read this in. If anyone has tried it they would know it is overrated. It sounds much better than it is. There are many things like that in books and I liked that this book poked fun of them.
FIrst of all if you read this you must be okay with a lot of rough language and brashness. The main character and her best friend reminded me a little of the characters from Tara Sivec's Chocolate Lovers series. That one was pretty brash with lots of cursing as well. That one was over the top because it was a romantic comedy and it helped the brashness work to some degree. In this book many of the characters came off as very immature instead. These people are supposed to be in the early 30s but they read like high schoolers sometimes.
Continuing on with this immaturity I find it really hard to believe that a bunch of teachers have a work party and act like they're at a frat party. If things had been ramped up more so this would have been over the top and farcical I might have seen it as a romantic comedy and accepted it more. But even though the main character had a sense of humor this still read like a contemporary fiction and made aspects like that a miss for me. Instead these people just seemed really immature. I also had to suspend my disbelief that so many of the teachers at this school are all so young, single and hot. Also, things at the end wrapped up way too neatly with her ex and the woman he cheated with. That wasn't believable.
I had a hard time connecting with Shelly's pining for her ex when she had such a great guy paying her attention. I never was one to pine so maybe that is just something that I personally couldn't relate to. Or maybe I just never got a good enough sense of what made Chase so hard to get over. It seemed much more like a comfortable relationship that felt safe rather than anything more between the two.
The main thing that saved this book was Matty. He was perfect and sweet. You can't help but root for this guy. Maybe part of why I couldn't connect with Shelly is because she was so slow to let go of the past when she had such an incredible guy. Yes, I know a lot of people are like that and timing is everything. Still it fed the overall immaturity thing that I felt about Shelly. Matt was almost too good but I love good guys like him so I won't complain. I loved how the author showed that not every guy has to view a girl as a conquest or have slept with all kinds of women until they settle down with the *one*. Matt had values and principles and he stuck to them. It was nice to see this represented as I think there are lots of guys like this. It made him even more swoon worthy.
I also liked how the book made fun of how so many romance books and movies show a couple together against the wall with the guy holding the girl in the throws of passion. I can't tell how many books I have read this in. If anyone has tried it they would know it is overrated. It sounds much better than it is. There are many things like that in books and I liked that this book poked fun of them.
November 11, 2012
First and foremost, the whole reason I decided to read this book was because of the cover (which has the same people on it as on the cover of Charade by Nyrae Dawn), or should I say the guy on it! <3 They say you should never judge a book by it's cover... but with a cover like that ~ more specifically with a guy on the front like that... why wouldn't I? ;-p
I came across this book completely by accident as an Amazon recommendation and I really liked it ~ it just didn't blow me away. At times the story was on the brink of being a bit too unbelievable and sappy for my liking. I felt no real angst or emotional pull to the book, and that put me off a little bit.
I really liked the character of Shelly, she was so down to earth and witty, that it was really hard not to like her. I loved that she was a teacher, but most of the time acted like a teenager herself. She tries so hard to move on from Chase, and you can tell that she really wants to fall in love with Matty, I just wish it would happen a little faster, as they are so good together.
Check out the rest of my review on my blog, Blame it on the Rain Reviews ~ http://blameitontherain1.blogspot.co....
I came across this book completely by accident as an Amazon recommendation and I really liked it ~ it just didn't blow me away. At times the story was on the brink of being a bit too unbelievable and sappy for my liking. I felt no real angst or emotional pull to the book, and that put me off a little bit.
I really liked the character of Shelly, she was so down to earth and witty, that it was really hard not to like her. I loved that she was a teacher, but most of the time acted like a teenager herself. She tries so hard to move on from Chase, and you can tell that she really wants to fall in love with Matty, I just wish it would happen a little faster, as they are so good together.
Check out the rest of my review on my blog, Blame it on the Rain Reviews ~ http://blameitontherain1.blogspot.co....
September 1, 2012
Cute story, I give this 3.5 stars.
March 28, 2013
I love great dialogue. If characters have snappy wit and sassy dialogue to back it up, I'm all over it. So imagine my surprise when I started reading AGAINST THE WALL and found Shelly. She embodied snappy wit and had some of the best lines of dialogue (even if they were her inner monologues).
The story starts with the beginning of the school year and Shelly still nursing a broken heart after her long time boyfriend/fiance and fellow teacher dumps her for the new, shiny science teacher. With the help of her best friend, Mel, Shelly is determined to find her Mr. Right...just not at her workplace. Too bad all too hot teacher Matt Fuller didn't get that message. As Shelly and Matt try the "we're not really together" thing, Shelly needs to figure out if what she wants is still out there or the man right beside her.
I really enjoyed the characters in this story. Matt was almost too good to be true in his bid to prove the Shelly that they belonged together. He gave her the space to figure things out. He gave their relationship time to develop without all the normal relationship "pressures" in hope that Shelly would understand what they had was so much more (that's the almost too good to be true part), Besides, who wouldn't love a guy that loved you enough to take you against the wall.
I felt like Shelly was one of my girls. I got her and I loved her. I'm not sure I could even convey, in words, just what it was that made me like her so much. This is going to be one of those time where I just have to say...read the book to see what I mean.
This was a really quick read for me, but one that gave me some great moment of laughter. Definitely one of those book that will leave you with a smile on your face.
The story starts with the beginning of the school year and Shelly still nursing a broken heart after her long time boyfriend/fiance and fellow teacher dumps her for the new, shiny science teacher. With the help of her best friend, Mel, Shelly is determined to find her Mr. Right...just not at her workplace. Too bad all too hot teacher Matt Fuller didn't get that message. As Shelly and Matt try the "we're not really together" thing, Shelly needs to figure out if what she wants is still out there or the man right beside her.
I really enjoyed the characters in this story. Matt was almost too good to be true in his bid to prove the Shelly that they belonged together. He gave her the space to figure things out. He gave their relationship time to develop without all the normal relationship "pressures" in hope that Shelly would understand what they had was so much more (that's the almost too good to be true part), Besides, who wouldn't love a guy that loved you enough to take you against the wall.
I felt like Shelly was one of my girls. I got her and I loved her. I'm not sure I could even convey, in words, just what it was that made me like her so much. This is going to be one of those time where I just have to say...read the book to see what I mean.
This was a really quick read for me, but one that gave me some great moment of laughter. Definitely one of those book that will leave you with a smile on your face.
November 20, 2013
I didn't really enjoy this novel. I love contemporary romances and I was looking forward to reading some hot and heavy teacher drama in this one... but I got something completely amateurish and just not very good.
All of our characters are teachers in a high school and you would expect them to behave in a moderately adult manner, but instead they all act like randy immature 15-year-olds themselves. Shelly Gelson (I don't know why, but I hate her name) is our heroine who has recently been dumped by her high school sweetheart, Chase, for one of their buxom co-workers. Shelly's friend Matt, another teacher, has always carried a torch for her and he starts pursuing her.
I just couldn't get past the uneducated way all of the teachers spoke and the completely juvenile way they all acted. The dialogue is stilted and the attempts at humor fell completely flat for me. I also was surprised at how often Shelly was out drinking. It seemed like she was at the bar almost every night. She had some weird obsession with beer and was a complete beer snob, which turned me off of her character.
The premise was good, but the execution here is just awful. There are great self published novels out there, but this is not one of them. I don't plan on reading anything else by this author, I just don't see the talent for storytelling here.
All of our characters are teachers in a high school and you would expect them to behave in a moderately adult manner, but instead they all act like randy immature 15-year-olds themselves. Shelly Gelson (I don't know why, but I hate her name) is our heroine who has recently been dumped by her high school sweetheart, Chase, for one of their buxom co-workers. Shelly's friend Matt, another teacher, has always carried a torch for her and he starts pursuing her.
I just couldn't get past the uneducated way all of the teachers spoke and the completely juvenile way they all acted. The dialogue is stilted and the attempts at humor fell completely flat for me. I also was surprised at how often Shelly was out drinking. It seemed like she was at the bar almost every night. She had some weird obsession with beer and was a complete beer snob, which turned me off of her character.
The premise was good, but the execution here is just awful. There are great self published novels out there, but this is not one of them. I don't plan on reading anything else by this author, I just don't see the talent for storytelling here.
February 24, 2013
To be honest this book has been on my radar for a while, but for some reason the cover didn't do it for me. Never judge a book by its cover is the saying that pops into my head over and over again. I actually only downloaded this because it was free and though why not. If I don't like it then I dont have to worry about it. HOW WRONG was I?
I loved this book, it is sweet, funny and anyone that can quote and love NKOTB as much as me (sad 90s chick) must be a one hell of a good writer!!!
This book is sweet, not angst or over dramatic for the sake of it. This book is about friendship and moving on with life regardless of what happens and forgiveness and understanding. I love the romance which wasn't over the top. I enjoyed the banter between all characters.
I am reading all the books available from this author regardless of what is about because I know that I will have a smile on my face afterwards. I like books that makes me feel something - sad, emotional, heartbreak, lust whatever... however there are times when I like books that makes me smile.
This book does that in drove.
Hanging tough!!
I loved this book, it is sweet, funny and anyone that can quote and love NKOTB as much as me (sad 90s chick) must be a one hell of a good writer!!!
This book is sweet, not angst or over dramatic for the sake of it. This book is about friendship and moving on with life regardless of what happens and forgiveness and understanding. I love the romance which wasn't over the top. I enjoyed the banter between all characters.
I am reading all the books available from this author regardless of what is about because I know that I will have a smile on my face afterwards. I like books that makes me feel something - sad, emotional, heartbreak, lust whatever... however there are times when I like books that makes me smile.
This book does that in drove.
Hanging tough!!
January 17, 2013
I loved Julie Prestsater! Annnnnnddd I LOVED this book! =) It was so refreshing and so flippin funny! I loved how realistic this story was and man it was truly funny and GREAT story. I enjoyed Julie's wrting style and I just LOVED the plot of this story.
Now...I LOVED ME SOME MATTHEW FULLER!! Man was he is SOOO VERY YUMMY, SEXY & AWESOME! I want me some! lol I loved his character and I loved Shelly. She was so adorable. I actually liked all the characters in this book. I have to say this was one of my fav's for 2012.
I loved the cover as well---perfect.
I cannot wait for Mel and Tyler's story!!!!
Now...I LOVED ME SOME MATTHEW FULLER!! Man was he is SOOO VERY YUMMY, SEXY & AWESOME! I want me some! lol I loved his character and I loved Shelly. She was so adorable. I actually liked all the characters in this book. I have to say this was one of my fav's for 2012.
I loved the cover as well---perfect.
I cannot wait for Mel and Tyler's story!!!!
September 25, 2013
I found this book on amazon the other day and sent it right to my kindle.
I was rather shocked at how come I never heard of this author and these books.
Against the Wall was a great read, I loved the characters, the plot and the story flowed so well I went and found book 2 and 3 in this series.
Julie Prestsater is a wonderful author and I have to say she is now one of my favorites.
This was a fantastic romance novel, starting over, finding a new love and one of the best HEA stories I've read in a long time.
I truly have to say that Julie writing is fantastic and anyone reading this should go purchase the entire series.
I was rather shocked at how come I never heard of this author and these books.
Against the Wall was a great read, I loved the characters, the plot and the story flowed so well I went and found book 2 and 3 in this series.
Julie Prestsater is a wonderful author and I have to say she is now one of my favorites.
This was a fantastic romance novel, starting over, finding a new love and one of the best HEA stories I've read in a long time.
I truly have to say that Julie writing is fantastic and anyone reading this should go purchase the entire series.
March 12, 2013
Friends to Lovers story. Falling in love with your best friend. etc etc.
Matty was adorable. The confidence was sexy. Shelly was kinda slow on the uptake and wasted a lot of time coming around. I did enjoy her brother and best (girl) friend, too. All the characters were funny and liked to party. I could be friends with these people.
Matty was adorable. The confidence was sexy. Shelly was kinda slow on the uptake and wasted a lot of time coming around. I did enjoy her brother and best (girl) friend, too. All the characters were funny and liked to party. I could be friends with these people.
April 10, 2013
This series of books is by far the only books that have ever spoken to me. Julie rocks the house with her writing skills capturing the epitome of a long friendship, heartbreak, love, and life. This series only makes you want more and more of these characters. My advice to Julie: "If you write it, they will come"
July 24, 2013
loved this one! the banter between the characters and the little romantic gestures from matty uggh I love matty he is incredible. I loved the ending very inventive. a must read
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