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Romancing the Clarksons #4
Too Beautiful to Break
A love of a lifetime . . . Leaving Belmont Clarkson is the hardest thing Sage Alexander has ever done. From the moment they met, she knew Belmont was the one, and getting up close and personal with him on his family's epic road trip has taken her desire to a new, even hotter level. But there's no way she can go there---not without revealing secrets that could devastate them both. Losing Sage is not an option. Belmont's heart is hers, has always been hers. He knows she's hiding something from him, but nothing will stand in his way of telling her just how much she means to him. Finding her is easy---saving her from her past could cost him everything.
320 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 26, 2017
About the author
Tessa Bailey
91 books54.8k followersNew York Times Bestselling author Tessa Bailey can solve all problems except for her own, so she focuses those efforts on stubborn, fictional blue collar men and loyal, lovable heroines. She lives on Long Island avoiding the sun and social interactions, then wonders why no one has called. Dubbed the “Michelangelo of dirty talk,” by Entertainment Weekly, Tessa writes with spice, spirit, swoon and a guaranteed happily ever after. Catch her on TikTok at @authortessabailey or check out tessabailey.com for a complete list of books.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 683 reviews
September 23, 2017
Sometimes the right thing was the most painful. Sometimes it gutted you and ruined you forever, so a single second wouldn’t pass without a reminder. Sage knew that lesson all too well.
Ever since the very first time we met Belmont, I've been fascinated by his quiet intensity. Ever since we get introduced to his and Sage's somewhat...borderline dysfunctional relationship, I've been anticipating their story with a rabid sort of glee. But I was also afraid. See when you anticipate a certain character's story, you tend to build it up in your head, and it inevitably falls short. Belmont was such an enigma. He's such a memorable, multi-layered, and broken character. And I'm thrilled to report that not only did Tessa Bailey do him justice, she blew all my expectations out of the water.
Too Beautiful To Break was entirely worth the wait and lived up to every single promise. Belmont's story was EVERYTHING; Emotional, gripping, swoony and entirely unforgettable.
“What is the right word?”
“Famine,” he ground out. “I’ve been in a famine.”
The Clarkson siblings tale concludes with this book, as they reach their ultimate destination. Four books in the making, they originally took off on a cross country trip in order to fulfill their mother’s last wish by jumping into the freezing water of the Atlantic on New Year’s Day for the Polar Plunge.
But as they near their destination, Sage announces that she needs to leave, shaking Belmont to the very core. Their relationship is this combination of codependency meet suppressed lust. It's such a fascinating dynamic. Sage is the balm to Belmont's tortured soul. She calms him in a way nothing in his life ever has. And Belmont has been Sage's constant in a life that has been anything but.
Too Beautiful To Break shows just how very versatile this author really is. Belmont is not her typical dirty talking, uber alpha. He's complex and while no less alpha, there's also this endearing child like quality to him. His quiet intensity grabs you from the start and completely hooks you in this book. He's a complete goner for Sage and he doesn't even want to hide it. He just wants to prove to her that he's worth it.
I was dying to know what happened to Belmont to make him the way that he is. I was starving for more details of Sage and her past. While she paints the picture of the perfect little wallflower, there was always this hidden depth to Sage and you certainly saw it come out here.
This was a beautiful and gripping romance about two broken souls piecing themselves back together. It was romantic and emotional. It was swoony and the most perfect book to end the book with.
My one quibble is the somewhat rushed details at the end. There's a particular revelation of Belmont's past coming to light and I wanted more of it. Considering that that particular detail is what molded him into the man that he is today, I needed a little more on that end. Aside from that, I enjoyed this book from start to finish and I couldn't imagine a more perfect book to close this series with.
ARC courtesy of publisher in exchange for an honest review
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September 26, 2017
NOW LIVE!
Amazon US * Amazon UK
Enter giveaway HERE
3.5 Stars
I've been with this series since the beginning and it just keeps making me want more from these characters. Especially Belmont and Sage who had my attention instantly and I've been secretly rooting for them this whole time.
Belmont and Sage complimented each other in a completely unexpected way. They both had issues but they were always there for one another when that happened. I really liked that Belmont could be broody and standoffish in a way, but with Sage he let her be there for him. I felt like it really spoke to how strong their connection was.
As much as I liked these characters I pushed my rating down to 3.5 because the ending felt too rushed. I wanted to see the true Happily Ever After for Belmont and Sage and instead it just felt like it was cut off before that happened. I still loved their characters, I guess I just wanted more of them at the end.
I'm actually really sad to see this series go. I feel like each book is made ten times better by being a part of this series. They all take you on a journey and makes you live with these characters and as a whole it is truly spectacular. I actually want to go back and re-read all of these books over again so I can experience them all together.
ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review.
Amazon US * Amazon UK
Enter giveaway HERE
3.5 Stars
I've been with this series since the beginning and it just keeps making me want more from these characters. Especially Belmont and Sage who had my attention instantly and I've been secretly rooting for them this whole time.
Belmont and Sage complimented each other in a completely unexpected way. They both had issues but they were always there for one another when that happened. I really liked that Belmont could be broody and standoffish in a way, but with Sage he let her be there for him. I felt like it really spoke to how strong their connection was.
As much as I liked these characters I pushed my rating down to 3.5 because the ending felt too rushed. I wanted to see the true Happily Ever After for Belmont and Sage and instead it just felt like it was cut off before that happened. I still loved their characters, I guess I just wanted more of them at the end.
I'm actually really sad to see this series go. I feel like each book is made ten times better by being a part of this series. They all take you on a journey and makes you live with these characters and as a whole it is truly spectacular. I actually want to go back and re-read all of these books over again so I can experience them all together.
ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review.
September 29, 2017
4.5 'My Heartbeat/Love of a Lifetime' Stars
ALL THE FEELS!!! Seriously, Tessa Bailey just wrecked me with these two's UNBREAKABLE love story! Belmont and Sage's broken souls stole my breath and made me cry like a baby - interrupted by so seriously needed fanning myself due their sexual tension and sexy times, it is Tessa Bailey, acfter all - and proved how family and soulmates' love and support is the only healing possible! Loved really conquered ALL in this epic ending for this amazing series!
Belmont, the only remaining single – not really, lol – of the Clarkson siblings, has been since the very first book, the character I was most captivated and intrigued about, because for me, like it was reinforced multiple times in this book, Belmont was the core, the driving center of this damaged family. Bel was without a doubt one of the most beautiful male characters I have ever read.
He was the only one of his kind.
Belmont was special and unique in every way, and Sage knew that very well immediately after meeting him, all those years back. They were indeed drawn to each other like two halves of one’s soul.
“Your heart asked mine. And mine was already begging.”
My GOD!!! This man!!! Seriously, his love, no, love is not strong enough would for what we can feel he feels for her, WORSHIP is so much more fitting. Sage was the center of his universe, so when she is obligated to remove herself from his life, to protect him, we could already feel the depth of his heartbreak.
“My heart, Aaron. I don’t think I can keep it beating without her.”
Cue the sobby tears… Fear not, he didn’t spend the rest of the book balled up in despair, and went to get his woman and find out why she left their life so suddenly, and he had quite a battle ahead of him, given Sage was just has damaged as him. I have to say this book truly had all the feels, but in the first half I was a bit too lost inside their heads. Yes, we needed those thoughts to understand these two, but at some points they became almost the entire chapters, and given the sadness and depression of their state of mind, I felt it became too much. Yes, they did indeed live inside their heads, but a bit more of communication or at least an effort too, would have created a different dynamic and undoubtedly reached the full 5 stars for me. Actually Belmont alone would have achieved it!
“My name is Belmont. I’m your daughter’s…” Sweat began to bead on his brow under their close attention. “I’m your daughter’s.”
See what I mean? This introduction to her parents alone shows all everything that Bel is about: Sage’s! ;)
Sage knew exactly his level of devotion, because she reciprocated in measure, and that exactly her fear, considering her parents extreme codependency. That was their hardest obstacle and the line that they feared crossing, and OMG, their struggle just about undid me! It completely torn me apart and I was suffering to find balance right along with them. That woman was strong, because I sure has hell you not be able to resist everything that was Belmont… He was everything!
“I already knew. Because you’re a man who values everyone’s happiness above himself. And that’s what makes you the greatest man any of us will ever know. There’s never been anyone like you, Belmont. There never will be again. How lucky am I that I get to love you?”
She knew how love she was, even given his damaged soul, Belmont gave his all for her, even touching her with a care and love of one who touches a divinity, a relic. When he realized all his love and devotion was not one sided and that Sage crave him just like he craved her, it was like someone gave him the world. Apropos since she was indeed his world.
She fit against him like God had taken a mold of his body and created a woman who would correspond to every jut and angle of him.
Some may consider his level of devotion/obsession too much, too stalkerish, but I adored him for it, and devoured every word from his lips, case in point that I have DOZENS, yes, dozens of Bel’s quotes highlighted on my book, and it was nearly impossible to chose for this review, I wanted to show you everything that Belmont is, and what an lucky lady Sage was.
There was nothing better in the entire world than being held by Belmont.
So I’ll stop here, and tell all of you to go get Too Beautiful to Break, and find for yourselves just how dreamy, swoon-worthy and perfectly imperfect Belmont is, and how amazing, heartbreaking and soul-warming his and Sage’s story is. Tessa Bailey may have given us the saddest/darkest of her stories in this book, but TBTB was so much more and even being each others one and only – can’t put into words I much I loved that <3 – it didn’t deter TB of given us some of her her trademark steamy hot sexy times, and dirty talk. Told you Bel was perfect in every way! ;)
Too Beautiful to Break was the PERFECT closure for this incredible and emotional series. What a better way to finish than with the person that was the hidden key behind all the complicated Clarksons HEA?! Brilliant Ending for a brilliant Series! <3 <3 <3 <3 <3
“A fearless man for a fearless woman, Sage. All of me is standing on this beach in front of you. All of me will stand beside you for the rest of my life.”
“There’s my heartbeat,” he whispered in her ear. “I love you.”
ARC kindly provided by the author via publisher, Forever Romance for an honest review
For full review with Release Week Blitz, check out my Blog post,
http://gisspotreviews.com/index.php/2...
ALL THE FEELS!!! Seriously, Tessa Bailey just wrecked me with these two's UNBREAKABLE love story! Belmont and Sage's broken souls stole my breath and made me cry like a baby - interrupted by so seriously needed fanning myself due their sexual tension and sexy times, it is Tessa Bailey, acfter all - and proved how family and soulmates' love and support is the only healing possible! Loved really conquered ALL in this epic ending for this amazing series!
Belmont, the only remaining single – not really, lol – of the Clarkson siblings, has been since the very first book, the character I was most captivated and intrigued about, because for me, like it was reinforced multiple times in this book, Belmont was the core, the driving center of this damaged family. Bel was without a doubt one of the most beautiful male characters I have ever read.
He was the only one of his kind.
Belmont was special and unique in every way, and Sage knew that very well immediately after meeting him, all those years back. They were indeed drawn to each other like two halves of one’s soul.
“Your heart asked mine. And mine was already begging.”
My GOD!!! This man!!! Seriously, his love, no, love is not strong enough would for what we can feel he feels for her, WORSHIP is so much more fitting. Sage was the center of his universe, so when she is obligated to remove herself from his life, to protect him, we could already feel the depth of his heartbreak.
“My heart, Aaron. I don’t think I can keep it beating without her.”
Cue the sobby tears… Fear not, he didn’t spend the rest of the book balled up in despair, and went to get his woman and find out why she left their life so suddenly, and he had quite a battle ahead of him, given Sage was just has damaged as him. I have to say this book truly had all the feels, but in the first half I was a bit too lost inside their heads. Yes, we needed those thoughts to understand these two, but at some points they became almost the entire chapters, and given the sadness and depression of their state of mind, I felt it became too much. Yes, they did indeed live inside their heads, but a bit more of communication or at least an effort too, would have created a different dynamic and undoubtedly reached the full 5 stars for me. Actually Belmont alone would have achieved it!
“My name is Belmont. I’m your daughter’s…” Sweat began to bead on his brow under their close attention. “I’m your daughter’s.”
See what I mean? This introduction to her parents alone shows all everything that Bel is about: Sage’s! ;)
Sage knew exactly his level of devotion, because she reciprocated in measure, and that exactly her fear, considering her parents extreme codependency. That was their hardest obstacle and the line that they feared crossing, and OMG, their struggle just about undid me! It completely torn me apart and I was suffering to find balance right along with them. That woman was strong, because I sure has hell you not be able to resist everything that was Belmont… He was everything!
“I already knew. Because you’re a man who values everyone’s happiness above himself. And that’s what makes you the greatest man any of us will ever know. There’s never been anyone like you, Belmont. There never will be again. How lucky am I that I get to love you?”
She knew how love she was, even given his damaged soul, Belmont gave his all for her, even touching her with a care and love of one who touches a divinity, a relic. When he realized all his love and devotion was not one sided and that Sage crave him just like he craved her, it was like someone gave him the world. Apropos since she was indeed his world.
She fit against him like God had taken a mold of his body and created a woman who would correspond to every jut and angle of him.
Some may consider his level of devotion/obsession too much, too stalkerish, but I adored him for it, and devoured every word from his lips, case in point that I have DOZENS, yes, dozens of Bel’s quotes highlighted on my book, and it was nearly impossible to chose for this review, I wanted to show you everything that Belmont is, and what an lucky lady Sage was.
There was nothing better in the entire world than being held by Belmont.
So I’ll stop here, and tell all of you to go get Too Beautiful to Break, and find for yourselves just how dreamy, swoon-worthy and perfectly imperfect Belmont is, and how amazing, heartbreaking and soul-warming his and Sage’s story is. Tessa Bailey may have given us the saddest/darkest of her stories in this book, but TBTB was so much more and even being each others one and only – can’t put into words I much I loved that <3 – it didn’t deter TB of given us some of her her trademark steamy hot sexy times, and dirty talk. Told you Bel was perfect in every way! ;)
Too Beautiful to Break was the PERFECT closure for this incredible and emotional series. What a better way to finish than with the person that was the hidden key behind all the complicated Clarksons HEA?! Brilliant Ending for a brilliant Series! <3 <3 <3 <3 <3
“A fearless man for a fearless woman, Sage. All of me is standing on this beach in front of you. All of me will stand beside you for the rest of my life.”
“There’s my heartbeat,” he whispered in her ear. “I love you.”
ARC kindly provided by the author via publisher, Forever Romance for an honest review
For full review with Release Week Blitz, check out my Blog post,
http://gisspotreviews.com/index.php/2...
September 28, 2017
DNF @ 67%
There is a scene in the first book of this series, Too Hot to Handle. It's the first encounter between Sage and Belmont, main characters of this book.
Let me put it this way: I read the scene and thought: "I wish I had had experienced something like that as a woman just once in my life." I was a goner, I was swooning, slobbering, wanting Belmont and Sage's story RIGHT FUCKING NOW!
Admittedly, I've been extremely busy since I got back, no time to read until I go to bed dead tired. So my rating and review is on me. But this is Tessa Bailey, my go-to-smut-author! And since I've had some shitty few weeks, I was really excited: Finally! Finally, I got to read their story.
Alas, I couldn't get into their story at all. I couldn't get into the characters at all. I tried and tried but nope, didn't work. There's nothing really wrong with the book, I suppose. Nothing I could point my finger at and say 'Wow, this is really, really crap!' That's why I said that my rating and review is on me. All I can say is that Sage and Belmont are bland.
In fact, they are so incredibly bland that - and I'm not joking, as when it comes to Tessa Bailey's sex scenes, there's usually nothing ever bland about it - I fell asleep. I freaking fell asleep in the middle of a Tessa Bailey sex scene!!! I don't read smut often or deliberately. But Tessa Bailey - whoah! Watch me go all berserk if anybody dares interrupt me.
But no, I can't anymore. I can't waste what precious little time I have on something that makes me fall asleep.
I wondered whether I should rate it or not but then remembered falling asleep during the sex scene. It's like
That gif explains it perfectly. You eat something that is usually all you ever wanted, and yet you fall asleep. Hence, my decision to rate it.
Fluke. This is just a fluke. I'm sure there will be a new TB book I'll devour.
There is a scene in the first book of this series, Too Hot to Handle. It's the first encounter between Sage and Belmont, main characters of this book.
Let me put it this way: I read the scene and thought: "I wish I had had experienced something like that as a woman just once in my life." I was a goner, I was swooning, slobbering, wanting Belmont and Sage's story RIGHT FUCKING NOW!
Admittedly, I've been extremely busy since I got back, no time to read until I go to bed dead tired. So my rating and review is on me. But this is Tessa Bailey, my go-to-smut-author! And since I've had some shitty few weeks, I was really excited: Finally! Finally, I got to read their story.
Alas, I couldn't get into their story at all. I couldn't get into the characters at all. I tried and tried but nope, didn't work. There's nothing really wrong with the book, I suppose. Nothing I could point my finger at and say 'Wow, this is really, really crap!' That's why I said that my rating and review is on me. All I can say is that Sage and Belmont are bland.
In fact, they are so incredibly bland that - and I'm not joking, as when it comes to Tessa Bailey's sex scenes, there's usually nothing ever bland about it - I fell asleep. I freaking fell asleep in the middle of a Tessa Bailey sex scene!!! I don't read smut often or deliberately. But Tessa Bailey - whoah! Watch me go all berserk if anybody dares interrupt me.
But no, I can't anymore. I can't waste what precious little time I have on something that makes me fall asleep.
I wondered whether I should rate it or not but then remembered falling asleep during the sex scene. It's like
That gif explains it perfectly. You eat something that is usually all you ever wanted, and yet you fall asleep. Hence, my decision to rate it.
Fluke. This is just a fluke. I'm sure there will be a new TB book I'll devour.
September 25, 2017
5 Unbreakable Stars!!!
Tessa Bailey out-did herself with this book. This is the most emotional Tessa Bailey book. It’s not sad. It’s beautiful. It’s EPIC.
Tessa has been teasing me with Belmont & Sage throughout this series, feeding me little lines of crack to keep me addicted and coming back for more!! I couldn’t get enough of their weirdness/attachment issues. I felt like I waited forever for these two to be together, but the wait was worth it because this book was every bit of perfect.
Belmont. For the love of Belmont. There is a quiet dignity to this man. A stillness that is rare in a hero. He is the anchor that stays strong when the world is falling to pieces. And what better man for Sage? Her life back home is a mess. Of course, she tries to keep him away from her mess, but Belmont & Sage are the EPIC love story, and their story is MEANT TO BE. And they do. They are. They….be.
These two are unbreakable. You can’t wedge a needle between them. They are so in sync with each other. But sometimes, depending on another person can be dangerous if it is taken to an unhealthy level. Belmont & Sage realize that in order for their relationship to work, they have to learn to overcome their fears apart from each other and be able to accomplish life goals without giving into the never-ending urge to hide from life in each other’s arms all the time.
There is so much beauty in this book. So many tears in this book, beautiful tears. I wouldn’t call this book sad, but it’s not a bunch of rainbows either. I have to say, I’ve never read a book quite like this. I could definitely tell that Tessa was inspired by this story, and I honestly wonder if she wrote this book first before writing the 3 books before it.
There is a spark to Tessa’s writing. It always ignites a fire in my jingle, but she managed to melt my heart as well with Belmont & Sage. They are SOLID to the end. Never once did I doubt their ending. That doesn’t mean this book was predictable. It means that Belmont & Sage’s love is steady and you know it will never end.
ARC courtesy of publisher in exchange for an honest review
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Tessa Bailey out-did herself with this book. This is the most emotional Tessa Bailey book. It’s not sad. It’s beautiful. It’s EPIC.
Tessa has been teasing me with Belmont & Sage throughout this series, feeding me little lines of crack to keep me addicted and coming back for more!! I couldn’t get enough of their weirdness/attachment issues. I felt like I waited forever for these two to be together, but the wait was worth it because this book was every bit of perfect.
Belmont. For the love of Belmont. There is a quiet dignity to this man. A stillness that is rare in a hero. He is the anchor that stays strong when the world is falling to pieces. And what better man for Sage? Her life back home is a mess. Of course, she tries to keep him away from her mess, but Belmont & Sage are the EPIC love story, and their story is MEANT TO BE. And they do. They are. They….be.
These two are unbreakable. You can’t wedge a needle between them. They are so in sync with each other. But sometimes, depending on another person can be dangerous if it is taken to an unhealthy level. Belmont & Sage realize that in order for their relationship to work, they have to learn to overcome their fears apart from each other and be able to accomplish life goals without giving into the never-ending urge to hide from life in each other’s arms all the time.
There is so much beauty in this book. So many tears in this book, beautiful tears. I wouldn’t call this book sad, but it’s not a bunch of rainbows either. I have to say, I’ve never read a book quite like this. I could definitely tell that Tessa was inspired by this story, and I honestly wonder if she wrote this book first before writing the 3 books before it.
There is a spark to Tessa’s writing. It always ignites a fire in my jingle, but she managed to melt my heart as well with Belmont & Sage. They are SOLID to the end. Never once did I doubt their ending. That doesn’t mean this book was predictable. It means that Belmont & Sage’s love is steady and you know it will never end.
ARC courtesy of publisher in exchange for an honest review
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September 11, 2017
“There’s never been anyone like you, Belmont. There never will be again. How am I that I get to love you?”
Aaaahhhhh! Belmont, Belmont, Belmont. His book has been one of my most anticipated reads this year ever since he was introduced as the oldest and grumpiest Clarkson sibling in Tessa Bailey’s Romancing the Clarksons series. He is also one of Bailey’s most complex heroes to date and his “will they, won’t they” relationship with Sage since the first book only whetted my appetite. And this book did not disappoint.
The Clarkson’s are almost at the end of their journey of fulfilling their mother’s dying request to have all the siblings scatter her ashes in the Atlantic on New Year’s Eve. Along the way, most of the Clarksons found their happily-ever-after and Belmont can feel his control slipping away. He loves his siblings but he’s never one to embrace change and everything is changing around him, including Sage, the only non-Clarkson on their road trip.
Just as the Clarksons’ journey is about to end, Sage’s past finally caught up to her, and she’s about to embark on her own journey to confront it. And that means abandoning Belmont and letting him go to New York alone.
“Love like mine for you doesn’t hinge on anything to be true. It just is.”
Throughout the series, Belmont and Sage developed a co-dependent relationship with each other. Both are broken characters and they don’t really know how to create or maintain a healthy relationship with each other. Sage has seen with her own eyes what co-dependency can do. She has lived through it. She doesn’t want that for herself or Belmont. So as she confronts her past, she also has to cut off the unhealthy threads that bound her to Belmont even if it breaks both of their hearts.
But Belmont isn’t easily persuaded. Reality is setting in. He could lose the most important person in his life if he doesn’t get his personal demons under control. This means coming to terms with events of his past, his mother’s depression and the identity of the man who contributed half of his DNA to Belmont. Not an easy task especially if you’re keeping damaging secrets from your siblings.
“Nothing in this world would have stopped me from fighting for you today. No one could drag me away. Do you hear me?”
But Belmont’s love for Sage is strong and he’s ready to prove that what they have isn’t destructive but beautiful and something that is worth fighting for. And I loved it. I loved how Belmont confronted his past and her past. I loved how he fought for her. He knew he had to make a change and he did.
At first, I wasn’t really sure about Sage. She seemed so together but in this book, we see her backstory and it’s heartbreaking. I began to understand why she decided to make a break from Belmont. Their relationship wasn’t healthy. And Sage has already lived through one co-dependent relationship that almost destroyed her.
Ms. Bailey did a phenomenal job at writing Sage’s desperation. As a reader, I felt her panic and hopelessness. It was hard to read sometimes but I trust that this author won’t leave me in perpetual gloom and doom throughout the book. But I must admit that this wasn’t an easy read at all. Sage’s situation was depressing and, as I’ve said, hopeless. There doesn’t seem to be a way out of it.
So it was a real relief when the tide started to turn and me as reader, along with the characters finally saw the light at the end of the tunnel. This book isn’t without drama though. And some readers might be put off by it especially the one that happened towards the end, but I personally loved it.
“How have I been breathing without you, Sage?” Belmont’s voice vibrating against her head. “How did I manage it?”
This would have been an easy 5-star read if not for the rushed resolution about Belmont’s dad. I mean, his identity has been a big part of Belmont’s journey so his identity and how he was introduced was a bit of a letdown. Not only that, there’s still one thing that happened to Belmont that wasn’t really resolved at all. It’s a huge spoiler so I won’t be disclosing that here. But it’s again, a huge thing that I felt like was swept under the rug. A couple more chapters would’ve helped, maybe but yeah, I didn’t get any closure with any of that which was disappointing.
Other than that, this book met my lofty expectations. Too Beautiful to Break was an emotionally poignant story with complex characters that you will love and root for.
An ARC was provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
October 30, 2021
I recently taking a huge liking to Miss Bailey's books. Especially her recent books. So I dig into my old books and find Too Beautiful to Break. I have not read the precious books in this series. Ad I guess that is the problem.
I am lost, to be honest. I am not expecting the story is cold. I do not hate it either since the sex is hot. The hero is also possessive and brooding.
I juat do not feel a strong liking to this book. Sad!
3 stars
I am lost, to be honest. I am not expecting the story is cold. I do not hate it either since the sex is hot. The hero is also possessive and brooding.
I juat do not feel a strong liking to this book. Sad!
3 stars
September 21, 2017
Too hard to rate…I'm allocating a halfer
***3.5 Stars***
Ladies and gentlemen, I can’t commit. Bloody Hell!! Up until the 63% mark, I was convinced that this was my favourite in the series and it would be a 4 or 5 star read. My love for Too Beautiful to Break plummeted so fast that I contemplated giving up. I was squinting and scowling, crossing my arms in frustration but I knew that I was invested in Belmont’s happiness. I persevered until 75% and at that point, I was cursing Tessa Bailey to the moon and back.
You wouldn’t believe what made me go on? I went onto Goodreads to have my DNF or 1-star convictions reinforced by other ARC readers and my friend Geri Reads, called me out. Well, she didn’t really call me out, but she made me feel like a quitter. I AM NOT A QUITTER!! Actually, she didn’t call me that either, she actually said…” some readers might be put off by it”. Well, Geri, while my knees may have trembled for a bit, I finally found my backbone and found the strength to go on.
How on earth can I give a bad rating to a book that I loved up until 63%, stumbled and crawled along until the 80% and then went back to enjoying it until the end? Well, this little ducky can’t. Of course, it can’t be a 5-star read (Hello, Tessa Bailey went to the moon and back) but it was definitely a 3.5 rounded up to a 4 star read.
I’ll give you a little glimpse into why the beginning was so good. First off, Belmont is special. He’s the kind of hero where on paper can seem almost perfect. HE’S DEVOTED!! I mean REALLY devoted. Now, off paper, there’s this little part of me that can’t help but put my kindle down and contemplate if he’s just a little TOO devoted. Like, to the stalkerish, watching you pee kind of devotion (doesn't happen, but I wouldn't have been surprised). The further I go on, the more I start to understand Belmont and why he acts the way he does. He’s got something to prove, can’t help himself and needs the connection. His journey of discovery is not an easy one to watch but it’s beautiful to see him grow and learn.
Now, Sage, well, unfortunately, she comes off as a little wishy-washy and a pushover. She has enabled Belmont and then swept away the security she offered him in the name of…*for his own good*. Yeah, yeah…tell it to the judge. Mind you, I am forever finding fault in the heroines, and should probably feel guilty about it (I don’t, can’t change my spots this late in the game).
So, Too Beautiful to Break was at times a hard slog. I started with a smile and ended with a smile. What I went through in between made me scowl, smirk, blush and sigh. I ended up awarding it 3.5 stars but to be honest at any particular time it could have been a 1, 2, 3, 4 or 5 star read.
Tessa Bailey writes really HOT and steamy with love that you can't help but believe in. Fans of DEVOTED heroes will LOVE THIS ONE!!
Stacey is Sassy, received a complimentary copy of this story. The copy provided is not the final copy and may be subject to edits and changes.
***3.5 Stars***
Ladies and gentlemen, I can’t commit. Bloody Hell!! Up until the 63% mark, I was convinced that this was my favourite in the series and it would be a 4 or 5 star read. My love for Too Beautiful to Break plummeted so fast that I contemplated giving up. I was squinting and scowling, crossing my arms in frustration but I knew that I was invested in Belmont’s happiness. I persevered until 75% and at that point, I was cursing Tessa Bailey to the moon and back.
You wouldn’t believe what made me go on? I went onto Goodreads to have my DNF or 1-star convictions reinforced by other ARC readers and my friend Geri Reads, called me out. Well, she didn’t really call me out, but she made me feel like a quitter. I AM NOT A QUITTER!! Actually, she didn’t call me that either, she actually said…” some readers might be put off by it”. Well, Geri, while my knees may have trembled for a bit, I finally found my backbone and found the strength to go on.
How on earth can I give a bad rating to a book that I loved up until 63%, stumbled and crawled along until the 80% and then went back to enjoying it until the end? Well, this little ducky can’t. Of course, it can’t be a 5-star read (Hello, Tessa Bailey went to the moon and back) but it was definitely a 3.5 rounded up to a 4 star read.
I’ll give you a little glimpse into why the beginning was so good. First off, Belmont is special. He’s the kind of hero where on paper can seem almost perfect. HE’S DEVOTED!! I mean REALLY devoted. Now, off paper, there’s this little part of me that can’t help but put my kindle down and contemplate if he’s just a little TOO devoted. Like, to the stalkerish, watching you pee kind of devotion (doesn't happen, but I wouldn't have been surprised). The further I go on, the more I start to understand Belmont and why he acts the way he does. He’s got something to prove, can’t help himself and needs the connection. His journey of discovery is not an easy one to watch but it’s beautiful to see him grow and learn.
Now, Sage, well, unfortunately, she comes off as a little wishy-washy and a pushover. She has enabled Belmont and then swept away the security she offered him in the name of…*for his own good*. Yeah, yeah…tell it to the judge. Mind you, I am forever finding fault in the heroines, and should probably feel guilty about it (I don’t, can’t change my spots this late in the game).
So, Too Beautiful to Break was at times a hard slog. I started with a smile and ended with a smile. What I went through in between made me scowl, smirk, blush and sigh. I ended up awarding it 3.5 stars but to be honest at any particular time it could have been a 1, 2, 3, 4 or 5 star read.
Tessa Bailey writes really HOT and steamy with love that you can't help but believe in. Fans of DEVOTED heroes will LOVE THIS ONE!!
Stacey is Sassy, received a complimentary copy of this story. The copy provided is not the final copy and may be subject to edits and changes.
July 14, 2022
Look at that cover!
If you know me at all you know I am not an enjoyer of the people covers. Buuuuuut, when I went to the library site to attempt snagging a copy of My Killer Vacation (which the pornbrarian STILL has not purchased – WTF pornbrary????) the first of these “Romancing the Clarksons” was up for grabs and it apparently just had a recent upcycle into an adorable cutesy cartoony variety that I can’t stay away from . . . .
Sadly that book was shit, but I was intrigued by brother Belmont and with a little eye bleach I went ahead and sucked my barf back and bit the bullet on this cover horribleness. I should have left well enough alone. Oh my word this was just as bad as the first. Good news is, Tessa Bailey has become a much better writer and now that I have experienced the “fool me twice, shame on me” with this series I know not to delve too far into her backlist from this point forward. Not even double virgins and a ginormo peen could save this one!
If you know me at all you know I am not an enjoyer of the people covers. Buuuuuut, when I went to the library site to attempt snagging a copy of My Killer Vacation (which the pornbrarian STILL has not purchased – WTF pornbrary????) the first of these “Romancing the Clarksons” was up for grabs and it apparently just had a recent upcycle into an adorable cutesy cartoony variety that I can’t stay away from . . . .
Sadly that book was shit, but I was intrigued by brother Belmont and with a little eye bleach I went ahead and sucked my barf back and bit the bullet on this cover horribleness. I should have left well enough alone. Oh my word this was just as bad as the first. Good news is, Tessa Bailey has become a much better writer and now that I have experienced the “fool me twice, shame on me” with this series I know not to delve too far into her backlist from this point forward. Not even double virgins and a ginormo peen could save this one!
September 26, 2017
Eeeeehhhhhhhhhhh.
It's not that this book was bad? Just... not entirely for me. It was okay. I am puzzled though.
***Review posted on The Eater of Books! blog***
Too Beautiful to Break by Tessa Bailey
Book Four of the Romancing the Clarksons series
Publisher: Forever Romance
Publication Date: September 26, 2017
Rating: 2 stars
Source: eARC from NetGalley
Summary (from Goodreads):
A love of a lifetime . . .
Leaving Belmont Clarkson is the hardest thing Sage Alexander has ever done. From the moment they met, she knew Belmont was the one, and getting up close and personal with him on his family's epic road trip has taken her desire to a new, even hotter level. But there's no way she can go there---not without revealing secrets that could devastate them both.
Losing Sage is not an option. Belmont's heart is hers, has always been hers. He knows she's hiding something from him, but nothing will stand in his way of telling her just how much she means to him. Finding her is easy---saving her from her past could cost him everything.
What I Liked:
I have so many mixed feelings about this book. On the one hand, it wasn't horrible, and I can see readers enjoying it. On the other hand, I didn't really like it. I love Tessa Bailey's books, and I have been a huge fan of hers for a long time. But this book just didn't do it for me.
This is the fourth and final novel in the Romancing the Clarksons series, and it features Belmont Clarkson and Sage Alexander. They have been circling each other during this entire series, but never together romantically. At the start of this book, it's just Belmont and Sage, since the other three Clarksons have taken detours during the trip, and will meet Belmont in New York for the Plunge. But Sage knows she can't stay with Belmont for this trip - she needs to take care of some business at home. Business that she knows Belmont won't like. She uses their dependency on each other as an excuse, but really, she needs to go back to her sad, terrible life in Sibley, Louisiana, so she can make things right. But Belmont will follow Sage to the ends of the earth, and he stops at nothing to help her when he learns of her situation. They both have a lot standing between them, but their love is stronger than they know.
Things I liked about this book: the characterization. I may not have loved Belmont like most readers of this series, but I can really appreciate how unique and different he is. Bailey has made him stand out completely, compared to the rest of her heroes of her various romance books, and in the romance world in general. Belmont is one of a kind. We can clearly see his character development in this story; he goes from putting Sage on a pedestal, to understanding her and loving her all the same. He overcomes some of his fears, and begins to understand his own self better.
The same can be said about Sage. She goes through a lot in this book, and she learns a lot about herself, and about Belmont. From start to finish, she is working towards a healthier, stronger relationship with Belmont. She also works through a lot of feelings she had stored up from her past, dealing with her parents and her childhood. She didn't have a traumatic or "terrible" childhood, but let's just say she had to come to terms with forgiving her parents, for a lot.
As always, Bailey writes a good romance. The chemistry between these two was always there, from the beginning of the series. This romance was interesting because Belmont and Sage clearly already love each other, but they were never together, so it's not a second-chance romance. They are a simmering fire together, and there is a pretty awesome part of the romance that I loved (but I won't say because it's something cool to discover). I wouldn't say this is one of Tessa's hottest books, but the chemistry is still good.
I liked how the book ended, for Belmont and Sage, and for the rest of the characters. We always expect a HEA from romance novels, but this book (and series) had a great HEA, and for everyone. This book was a quick read and while I didn't totally love it, I'm glad I gave it a chance.
What I Did Not Like:
If I'm being honest (which I always am!), I never really loved Belmont, like most readers I've seen. People were dying to read his story and I was just... kind of ambivalent? I didn't really care to read his story. The whole I'm-so-devoted-to-her thing that Belmont has going on was strange and sometimes a turn-off, because it was too intense. You'd have to read one of the books to know what I mean. Belmont is obsessed with Sage's well-being, her happiness, her family's situation. All of this sounds good on paper, but it's weird and a little unhealthy.
Cue my next complaint: how Belmont decides to take on Sage's burden himself (and the fact that she let him). The whole thing is that Sage goes home because her father is physically unwell, because his mining job is too demanding. So Sage goes to his employer (a mean, spiteful man) and offers to work in her father's place. And guess what Belmont does, when he shows up to Sibley? He offers to take Sage's place. I hated this. Keep in mind, Sage felt responsible because she borrowed money years ago from the man in order to get out of Sibley and to San Diego, and didn't pay him back. Her father took on her debt, as well as added his own, and he worked for the man in the deep of the mines.
It seemed incredibly unfair and unrealistic that Belmont would take Sage's place in the mines. And the fact that she let him? That's honestly ridiculous. I would never in 1000 years let a friend or a friend's brother do that (which was what Belmont was to her, at the time - not "boyfriend" yet). I definitely wouldn't let my boyfriend or husband do that. It's my responsibility, and no one would talk me out of it. Not even creepy Belmont who was obsessed with Sage's well-being. He'd have to suck it up and deal with the fact that I will pay off my and my family's debts. By myself. I would never endanger my partner like that, especially knowing he hates underground.
And to begin with - there were SOOOO many options such that Sage wouldn't have to take her father's place and work in the mines? Like, get a loan from a larger bank? From Sallie Mae? Bring in law enforcement or a legal team? Better yet - take your family and move? Or even better - pay your debts? It would be hard to leave family to suffer, but that's an option too (not a good one, obviously). My point is, there were so many better options than offering to take someone's place in the mines. And then there is the fact that Sage got a day's worth of training, before going into the mines. You need licenses and certifications to operate heavy equipment and machinery and whatnot... Sage couldn't have obtained any of that in a day. That just isn't plausible. And even if the owner were doing some illegal/shady business by letting Sage go into the mines with one day of training, that's when I would bring the law into it. You see how this makes no sense?
AND there is the fact that Belmont ended up working for MONTHS in the mines, while Sage went back to San Diego to do her wedding planning business thing. (I think? This wasn't entirely clear but that was the impression I got.) You're joking, right? I wouldn't let anyone replace me for any of my debt to begin with, but even if I did, I wouldn't just leave the man in my hometown and go? I would stay with him? This literally made no sense.
In essence, nothing about the plot made sense. This whole plot could have been dismissed, had Sage paid the debts back, or called the police, or simply walked out of there and let her parents reap what they sowed (most of the debt came from her parents and their alcohol addiction).
Would I Recommend It:
I don't really recommend this book. It's not a steamy, swoony love story. It's not even a satisfying story in general. The story frustrated me to no end and I couldn't connect with Belmont, or Sage. I liked how Tessa Bailey developed their characters and shed a lot of insight into their personalities and minds, but I just didn't connect. This romance novel didn't do anything for me. It wasn't enjoyable and I don't even know how I would recommend the book (like, in what situation or context). I feel like only fans of Tessa Bailey would try this book? It's not that compelling of a story if you're not a die-hard Bailey fan. Which I am. I'm so sad I didn't really like this book.
Rating:
2.5 stars -> rounded down to 2 stars. It's a shame. I started the review thinking that I would give this book a 3-star rating. But the more I think about it, the less I enjoyed the book. I wanted to like it, but I pretty much knew, as soon as Sage offered to take her father's place, that I wouldn't enjoy this book (because I knew that Belmont would offer to take hers, and the whole story was doomed from there). At least the story ends well... to a point. I'm glad this series is over because I don't think I would read the next book (if there were a fifth book).
It's not that this book was bad? Just... not entirely for me. It was okay. I am puzzled though.
***Review posted on The Eater of Books! blog***
Too Beautiful to Break by Tessa Bailey
Book Four of the Romancing the Clarksons series
Publisher: Forever Romance
Publication Date: September 26, 2017
Rating: 2 stars
Source: eARC from NetGalley
Summary (from Goodreads):
A love of a lifetime . . .
Leaving Belmont Clarkson is the hardest thing Sage Alexander has ever done. From the moment they met, she knew Belmont was the one, and getting up close and personal with him on his family's epic road trip has taken her desire to a new, even hotter level. But there's no way she can go there---not without revealing secrets that could devastate them both.
Losing Sage is not an option. Belmont's heart is hers, has always been hers. He knows she's hiding something from him, but nothing will stand in his way of telling her just how much she means to him. Finding her is easy---saving her from her past could cost him everything.
What I Liked:
I have so many mixed feelings about this book. On the one hand, it wasn't horrible, and I can see readers enjoying it. On the other hand, I didn't really like it. I love Tessa Bailey's books, and I have been a huge fan of hers for a long time. But this book just didn't do it for me.
This is the fourth and final novel in the Romancing the Clarksons series, and it features Belmont Clarkson and Sage Alexander. They have been circling each other during this entire series, but never together romantically. At the start of this book, it's just Belmont and Sage, since the other three Clarksons have taken detours during the trip, and will meet Belmont in New York for the Plunge. But Sage knows she can't stay with Belmont for this trip - she needs to take care of some business at home. Business that she knows Belmont won't like. She uses their dependency on each other as an excuse, but really, she needs to go back to her sad, terrible life in Sibley, Louisiana, so she can make things right. But Belmont will follow Sage to the ends of the earth, and he stops at nothing to help her when he learns of her situation. They both have a lot standing between them, but their love is stronger than they know.
Things I liked about this book: the characterization. I may not have loved Belmont like most readers of this series, but I can really appreciate how unique and different he is. Bailey has made him stand out completely, compared to the rest of her heroes of her various romance books, and in the romance world in general. Belmont is one of a kind. We can clearly see his character development in this story; he goes from putting Sage on a pedestal, to understanding her and loving her all the same. He overcomes some of his fears, and begins to understand his own self better.
The same can be said about Sage. She goes through a lot in this book, and she learns a lot about herself, and about Belmont. From start to finish, she is working towards a healthier, stronger relationship with Belmont. She also works through a lot of feelings she had stored up from her past, dealing with her parents and her childhood. She didn't have a traumatic or "terrible" childhood, but let's just say she had to come to terms with forgiving her parents, for a lot.
As always, Bailey writes a good romance. The chemistry between these two was always there, from the beginning of the series. This romance was interesting because Belmont and Sage clearly already love each other, but they were never together, so it's not a second-chance romance. They are a simmering fire together, and there is a pretty awesome part of the romance that I loved (but I won't say because it's something cool to discover). I wouldn't say this is one of Tessa's hottest books, but the chemistry is still good.
I liked how the book ended, for Belmont and Sage, and for the rest of the characters. We always expect a HEA from romance novels, but this book (and series) had a great HEA, and for everyone. This book was a quick read and while I didn't totally love it, I'm glad I gave it a chance.
What I Did Not Like:
If I'm being honest (which I always am!), I never really loved Belmont, like most readers I've seen. People were dying to read his story and I was just... kind of ambivalent? I didn't really care to read his story. The whole I'm-so-devoted-to-her thing that Belmont has going on was strange and sometimes a turn-off, because it was too intense. You'd have to read one of the books to know what I mean. Belmont is obsessed with Sage's well-being, her happiness, her family's situation. All of this sounds good on paper, but it's weird and a little unhealthy.
Cue my next complaint: how Belmont decides to take on Sage's burden himself (and the fact that she let him). The whole thing is that Sage goes home because her father is physically unwell, because his mining job is too demanding. So Sage goes to his employer (a mean, spiteful man) and offers to work in her father's place. And guess what Belmont does, when he shows up to Sibley? He offers to take Sage's place. I hated this. Keep in mind, Sage felt responsible because she borrowed money years ago from the man in order to get out of Sibley and to San Diego, and didn't pay him back. Her father took on her debt, as well as added his own, and he worked for the man in the deep of the mines.
It seemed incredibly unfair and unrealistic that Belmont would take Sage's place in the mines. And the fact that she let him? That's honestly ridiculous. I would never in 1000 years let a friend or a friend's brother do that (which was what Belmont was to her, at the time - not "boyfriend" yet). I definitely wouldn't let my boyfriend or husband do that. It's my responsibility, and no one would talk me out of it. Not even creepy Belmont who was obsessed with Sage's well-being. He'd have to suck it up and deal with the fact that I will pay off my and my family's debts. By myself. I would never endanger my partner like that, especially knowing he hates underground.
And to begin with - there were SOOOO many options such that Sage wouldn't have to take her father's place and work in the mines? Like, get a loan from a larger bank? From Sallie Mae? Bring in law enforcement or a legal team? Better yet - take your family and move? Or even better - pay your debts? It would be hard to leave family to suffer, but that's an option too (not a good one, obviously). My point is, there were so many better options than offering to take someone's place in the mines. And then there is the fact that Sage got a day's worth of training, before going into the mines. You need licenses and certifications to operate heavy equipment and machinery and whatnot... Sage couldn't have obtained any of that in a day. That just isn't plausible. And even if the owner were doing some illegal/shady business by letting Sage go into the mines with one day of training, that's when I would bring the law into it. You see how this makes no sense?
AND there is the fact that Belmont ended up working for MONTHS in the mines, while Sage went back to San Diego to do her wedding planning business thing. (I think? This wasn't entirely clear but that was the impression I got.) You're joking, right? I wouldn't let anyone replace me for any of my debt to begin with, but even if I did, I wouldn't just leave the man in my hometown and go? I would stay with him? This literally made no sense.
In essence, nothing about the plot made sense. This whole plot could have been dismissed, had Sage paid the debts back, or called the police, or simply walked out of there and let her parents reap what they sowed (most of the debt came from her parents and their alcohol addiction).
Would I Recommend It:
I don't really recommend this book. It's not a steamy, swoony love story. It's not even a satisfying story in general. The story frustrated me to no end and I couldn't connect with Belmont, or Sage. I liked how Tessa Bailey developed their characters and shed a lot of insight into their personalities and minds, but I just didn't connect. This romance novel didn't do anything for me. It wasn't enjoyable and I don't even know how I would recommend the book (like, in what situation or context). I feel like only fans of Tessa Bailey would try this book? It's not that compelling of a story if you're not a die-hard Bailey fan. Which I am. I'm so sad I didn't really like this book.
Rating:
2.5 stars -> rounded down to 2 stars. It's a shame. I started the review thinking that I would give this book a 3-star rating. But the more I think about it, the less I enjoyed the book. I wanted to like it, but I pretty much knew, as soon as Sage offered to take her father's place, that I wouldn't enjoy this book (because I knew that Belmont would offer to take hers, and the whole story was doomed from there). At least the story ends well... to a point. I'm glad this series is over because I don't think I would read the next book (if there were a fifth book).
September 25, 2017
NO!!! It can’t be over! It just can’t! I’m FAR too invested in these character’s lives! I’m going to need to have a second generation series soon, Ms. Bailey, so get to work woman! But for real, this book was ABSOLUTELY AMAZING! It’s EVERYTHING that I wanted it to be and SO MUCH MORE! I laughed. I cried. I swooned and then I cried some more. TOO BEAUTIFUL TO BREAK was one of the most heart-wrenching, sexy, sweet, and romantic romances I’ve read all year. Ms. Bailey just took my heart and ran with it, and I don’t even want it back. It belongs to Belmont Clarkson. It will ALWAYS belong to Belmont Clarkson!
”We’re two halves of a whole, you and I, Sage. I know there are things we need to work on. Me, mostly. I need work. But I know your heart, sweetest girl. You wouldn’t have given yourself over to me like that if you didn’t believe. In me. In us.”
My God! If I would have just read this quote before reading the book, I would have been an absolute goner. My heart ached all throughout and by the end, I was a MESS...an emotionally drained MESS! But, I wouldn’t have had it any other way because I knew going into this that Belmont and Sage were going to WRECK ME in the best way possible. Not only was TOO BEAUTIFUL TO BREAK a TOP PICK of the year for me, it was my absolute FAVORITE of the series, and that is saying A LOT because I freaking LOVED every single book in this series, but Belmont and Sage held a piece of my heart from the very beginning.
These characters are EVERYTHING! The feels you will experience are EVERYTHING! The writing is OUT OF THIS WORLD spectacular! There is not a single critique I would give about this book. Tessa Bailey continues to amaze the hell out of me with each new release and with Belmont’s story...well, she just kicked it up to a whole other level! I’m so freaking excited to see what fans of the series think of this book. I just know they will be blown away. I will always root for these characters and they will always have a special place in my heart. Even though this series has come to an end, I will NEVER FORGET each and every single character that I’ve met along the way. Not only do I highly recommend this book, this author, and this entire series, I think it’s a MUST READ for every romance junkie out there.
September 28, 2017
I'm gonna stand in a corner and weep 3.5 stars
Two days later I'm writing my review and I'm still not sure how I'm going to word it other than I liked Too Beautiful to Break.
But I didn't love it as much as I expected and wanted to. I wanted to be so full of fizz and love for my Belmontand Sage's book that I would just speak all in tongues about how freaking fantabulous it was and I wished I could read it all over again.
I don't think I can write it without talking of spoilers, so you know... like spoiler warning or whatever.
What did I like:
Belmont.
Belmont.
BELMONT.
“But if you ever get scared or lost or lonely, know that I’m one phone call away. Whether it’s tomorrow or fifty years from where we’re standing, I’ll come. I’ll come before you know it.”
He was the brooding, mysterious, introverted, gorgeous tortured hero we've been teased with for three whole books. If this book was solely about him on his boat or buying condoms ( I'll get back to this ) I would have rated this book 5 stars. Seriously, he is my kind of hero who is so fucking fully focused on his woman, her wellbeing, that his skin is aching to take care of every damn need she has ever had or ever will have. He is so in love with this woman and truly doesn't know what to do with all his feelings because of you know.. the brooding and the introversy. I fucking love that man. And I've loved him through this series, which on the whole has been my fave TB series of all time, if you haven't met the Clarksons you really need to. I'm a fan of the Queen, she's my go to author when I need a cleanser from a horrible book or when I need the best smut, she's it, so I'm dying a short agony death right now for not adoring my Belmont's book.
There's a scene where he goes to buy condoms for the first time ever ( told you I'd get back to it ) and he asks the help of the local prostitute for assistance and she's so stunned that someone is talking normal to her. Something in my heart cracked because it was so well done it absolutely made sense this quiet man would do that for his Sage not knowing how he made this older woman feel worthwhile for a minute.
The sex. You can't have a TB book and not mention the sex. It's why we all read. Her sex scenes are off the chain, with the dirtiest heroes. so With Bel being a virgin, this I'd guessed at, but knowing they were both virgins was going to be challenging, but still TB did the intimate scenes justice, they weren't as durty as her others, but inventive which I give kudos for. And our Bel goes above and beyond, I'll say he is a studious lover!
And TBTB had some beautiful lines as only TB can write. Truly melted me.
“My heart, Aaron. I don’t think I can keep it beating without her.”
Okay, so that's the positive. And it pains me KILLS ME that I have negatives towards this book. This was my most anticipated book of the year. I would have snapped anyone's hand off had they offered me an early copy, I was so excited for it and even waited up until midnight so I could at least read a chapter or three, so for me to have something less than positive to report on it, ugh. I even thoguht about skipping my review, but Belmont needed more than that.
-The plot felt weak to me. It had holes all over it.
-Sage felt like she was from the little house on the prairie days.
-And the caricature villain twiddling his mustache forcing heroine into a marriage was just laughable in a sad way.
Two virgins, okay, sure. I've loved TB's hero virgins, she writes them the best. I figured it wouldn't be as saucy as say my DUKE (unf, big man bear ) and it wasn't. But Sage's speech patterns regarding sex.... "if we're to lie together." You're telling me, the best friend of PEGGY, who is sexually vocal, and Sage has never picked up the ways to speak about sex? She can't say fuck? or take me? She has the internet at her finger tips, and sure, she grew up in what I can only describe as the town time forgot, what with the aforementioned mustache twiddling villain mine owner who seemed to run everything, but she's been living in California how long, surrounding in happily wedding couples and still she talks like she's Laura Ingles? It put me right off any like I had for this character. I just didn't buy THAT much naivety/dumbness.
Plus the whole "We'll turn out like my parents." Uhm, no, they were addicted to the booze, that's what made them that way, there's nothing wrong with turning to the one you love for comfort. The way she pushed Bel away constantly was heartbreaking and just rubbed me the wrong way. I wanted to love this shy woman so much, the teasers we've had about her felt like we were reading about a whole other heroine.
Overall I think I just expected too much from my gorgeous Belmont's book. he'd been built into this saint of perfectness and I think ( for me ) the plot let him down. I would have been over the moon ecstatic if all the book was about was him and Sage overcoming their introvert personalities and learning to love one another. I would have read 200 pages of that and died loving it. The mine, the dad reveal, the flimsy 'we can't be together' excuses, and the town that time forget was all just overkill.
Pains me to say but this wont be my favorite in the series. That goes to Peggy's book.
My Belmont alone gets 5 stars.
“My name is Belmont. I’m your daughter’s….I’m your daughter’s.” ❤❤❤
Two days later I'm writing my review and I'm still not sure how I'm going to word it other than I liked Too Beautiful to Break.
But I didn't love it as much as I expected and wanted to. I wanted to be so full of fizz and love for my Belmont
I don't think I can write it without talking of spoilers, so you know... like spoiler warning or whatever.
What did I like:
Belmont.
Belmont.
BELMONT.
“But if you ever get scared or lost or lonely, know that I’m one phone call away. Whether it’s tomorrow or fifty years from where we’re standing, I’ll come. I’ll come before you know it.” He was the brooding, mysterious, introverted, gorgeous tortured hero we've been teased with for three whole books. If this book was solely about him on his boat or buying condoms ( I'll get back to this ) I would have rated this book 5 stars. Seriously, he is my kind of hero who is so fucking fully focused on his woman, her wellbeing, that his skin is aching to take care of every damn need she has ever had or ever will have. He is so in love with this woman and truly doesn't know what to do with all his feelings because of you know.. the brooding and the introversy. I fucking love that man. And I've loved him through this series, which on the whole has been my fave TB series of all time, if you haven't met the Clarksons you really need to. I'm a fan of the Queen, she's my go to author when I need a cleanser from a horrible book or when I need the best smut, she's it, so I'm dying a short agony death right now for not adoring my Belmont's book.
There's a scene where he goes to buy condoms for the first time ever ( told you I'd get back to it ) and he asks the help of the local prostitute for assistance and she's so stunned that someone is talking normal to her. Something in my heart cracked because it was so well done it absolutely made sense this quiet man would do that for his Sage not knowing how he made this older woman feel worthwhile for a minute.
The sex. You can't have a TB book and not mention the sex. It's why we all read. Her sex scenes are off the chain, with the dirtiest heroes. so With Bel being a virgin, this I'd guessed at, but knowing they were both virgins was going to be challenging, but still TB did the intimate scenes justice, they weren't as durty as her others, but inventive which I give kudos for. And our Bel goes above and beyond, I'll say he is a studious lover!
And TBTB had some beautiful lines as only TB can write. Truly melted me.
“My heart, Aaron. I don’t think I can keep it beating without her.”Okay, so that's the positive. And it pains me KILLS ME that I have negatives towards this book. This was my most anticipated book of the year. I would have snapped anyone's hand off had they offered me an early copy, I was so excited for it and even waited up until midnight so I could at least read a chapter or three, so for me to have something less than positive to report on it, ugh. I even thoguht about skipping my review, but Belmont needed more than that.
-The plot felt weak to me. It had holes all over it.
-Sage felt like she was from the little house on the prairie days.
-And the caricature villain twiddling his mustache forcing heroine into a marriage was just laughable in a sad way.
Two virgins, okay, sure. I've loved TB's hero virgins, she writes them the best. I figured it wouldn't be as saucy as say my DUKE (unf, big man bear ) and it wasn't. But Sage's speech patterns regarding sex.... "if we're to lie together." You're telling me, the best friend of PEGGY, who is sexually vocal, and Sage has never picked up the ways to speak about sex? She can't say fuck? or take me? She has the internet at her finger tips, and sure, she grew up in what I can only describe as the town time forgot, what with the aforementioned mustache twiddling villain mine owner who seemed to run everything, but she's been living in California how long, surrounding in happily wedding couples and still she talks like she's Laura Ingles? It put me right off any like I had for this character. I just didn't buy THAT much naivety/dumbness.
Plus the whole "We'll turn out like my parents." Uhm, no, they were addicted to the booze, that's what made them that way, there's nothing wrong with turning to the one you love for comfort. The way she pushed Bel away constantly was heartbreaking and just rubbed me the wrong way. I wanted to love this shy woman so much, the teasers we've had about her felt like we were reading about a whole other heroine.
Overall I think I just expected too much from my gorgeous Belmont's book. he'd been built into this saint of perfectness and I think ( for me ) the plot let him down. I would have been over the moon ecstatic if all the book was about was him and Sage overcoming their introvert personalities and learning to love one another. I would have read 200 pages of that and died loving it. The mine, the dad reveal, the flimsy 'we can't be together' excuses, and the town that time forget was all just overkill.
Pains me to say but this wont be my favorite in the series. That goes to Peggy's book.
My Belmont alone gets 5 stars.
“My name is Belmont. I’m your daughter’s….I’m your daughter’s.” ❤❤❤
September 23, 2017
What an incredibly intense read! Book 4 continues with Belmont and Sage making the journey to New York for the Polar Plunge. This was Belmont's mothers dying wish, for all four of her children to do this together. They all started out on the road trip and with each book, a sibling battled their demons and found love.
It seems Tessa Bailey saved the most wounded for last. Belmont and Sage both have so many demons they are dealing with. They've dealt, up to this point, in a co-dependency that Sage knew wasn't healthy. She knows this because her parents have done the same thing for her whole life. Leaving her feeling abandoned and living on the outskirts.
This whole book was just intense. The way Belmont needed Sage, it was as if he couldn't breath without sharing the same air as her and yet he never felt he could truly have her. Sage has her own issues to deal with, but also tried everything she could to help Belmont with his. He comes off as weighed down by his issues and yet he was probably the strongest of them all.
Too Beautiful to Break is an appropriate title for these two people. The love and determination displayed was powerful and inspiring. It was a great ending to the series. ARC provided by NetGalley.
It seems Tessa Bailey saved the most wounded for last. Belmont and Sage both have so many demons they are dealing with. They've dealt, up to this point, in a co-dependency that Sage knew wasn't healthy. She knows this because her parents have done the same thing for her whole life. Leaving her feeling abandoned and living on the outskirts.
This whole book was just intense. The way Belmont needed Sage, it was as if he couldn't breath without sharing the same air as her and yet he never felt he could truly have her. Sage has her own issues to deal with, but also tried everything she could to help Belmont with his. He comes off as weighed down by his issues and yet he was probably the strongest of them all.
Too Beautiful to Break is an appropriate title for these two people. The love and determination displayed was powerful and inspiring. It was a great ending to the series. ARC provided by NetGalley.
September 25, 2017
To say I’ve been waiting for this story is a bit of an understatement, I honestly really NEEDED this story even though I knew it was going to spell the end of Tessa Bailey’s Romancing the Clarksons series. We’ve seen this couple interact during this series, there is no doubt there is some kind of connection, but no one, not even the two people involved have figured out what is going on between them and with time running out, desperate times leads to desperate measures. A poignant, emotional journey filled with past regrets and secrets and healing that only comes from letting go and letting love in, Too Beautiful To Break is a touching and beautiful love story and Ms. Bailey absolutely saved the best book for last in this series.
Belmont Clarkson, the oldest of the Clarkson siblings, is determined to fulfill his mother’s dying with for him and his three siblings to jump into the Atlantic Ocean on New Year’s day at Coney Island and although three of his siblings have found love and are now all over the United States, he plans to meet them there before he makes the drive back to San Diego with Sage Alexander, his sister Peggy’s best friend, and the only person who has ever been able to make him feel calm and whole. She is his heart, but he knows she is too good for him, too pure, so he allows her comfort, he gives it back but that is all. When Sage insists he take her to the train station so she can go home, where she grew up, not San Diego, both of their lives are changed forever in more ways than one.
I honestly don’t want to say too much about this story because I think all the twist, turns, and backgrounds on both Belmont and Sage need to be read, digested, and absorbed. Both these characters have baggage that has made them into the people they are today. Until Belmont met Sage he was barely getting by in his life; meeting Sage made him want to be a better man, get his act together, work hard and be able to provide for her when HE was ready to be that man. Sage was happy to help Belmont, but as time went on she began to realize there was something all too familiar about their relationship and she had to make changes in her life. When things get really bad, the rest of the Clarksons are there to see them through and give back to Belmont who helped all of them when they needed it the most.
This is not a pretty story, these two people overcome a lot of obstacles to be together, but the steps they take, the trust they place in each other as they work through it all had me holding my breath and turning pages as fast as I could read. The emotions I experienced in this book, the tears I cried both sad and happy, and the overwhelming sense of peace I had at the end made me realize I was reading an expertly crafted and truly exceptional story. Well done, Ms. Bailey, well done!
August 5, 2017
Ohh, Belmont. <333 He's one of my favorite Tessa Bailey heroes. So happy to finally read his story!
Review to come!
Thanks to the publisher for generously providing me an ARC to review.
Review to come!
Thanks to the publisher for generously providing me an ARC to review.
December 17, 2022
Her breath on his skin was the only thing that had ever made him feel normal.
Finally the book I have been desperately wanting since the start of this series!!!
He was the only one of his kind. For some reason, he’d chosen her to crowd into corners, to worry about, to beg for eye contact. And now she had to destroy their connection to keep him alive.
Sage Alexander has been with the Clarkson siblings on their family road trip since the beginning and every mile has just brought her closer to Belmont Clarkson. But she’s known since the beginning that she couldn’t stay with him, no matter how much she wanted. The time has come to face her past, to pay her dues and there’s no way she can take him with him. Not if it meant him having to face his demons and she refuses to hurt him like that.
“You forgot something important, though, Sage. I have no greater weakness or strength than you.”
Belmont has always known that he wasn’t normal. His reactions to his surrounding and others has always been different. Until he met Sage, never has he felt more like himself, more like he’s exactly where he’s always been meant to be. And when she leaves him, he has no choice but to follow her, because she belongs to him, just like he belongs to her. And he knows her well enough to know she’s been keeping secrets and he’ll do anything to save her, even if it means sacrificing himself.
What he felt in her presence was so big and demanding, he didn’t know how to stay put in the midst of it and keep himself contained.
I can’t even begin to convey just how much I love the strong and quiet Belmont. He’s so intense about everything, especially about Sage, and I just wanted to wrap myself in him and never let go. He’s also so very broken and since broken men are like catnip to me, I just loved everything about him. How protective he was over his siblings and Sage and how he would willingly sacrifice all of him to keep them safe and happy. His devotion to Sage was amazing. For him there was no one but her and it made me melt into a puddle of goo.
“There’s never been anyone like you, Belmont. There never will be again. How lucky am I that I get to love you?”
I loved the kind-hearted Sage and how protective she was over Belmont. I also liked the fact that she wanted to make things better for her parents despite the fact that for the most part they really didn’t deserve it.
“I covet my right to fear for every hair on your head.”
“I never asked you to,” she half sobbed, half whispered.
“You did.” He reached across the console, his fingers hovering just above her thigh, branding the skin beneath her dress. “Your heart asked mine. And mine was already begging.”
For three books now I have been waiting impatiently for Sage and Belmont to finally admit their feelings and give into the chemistry between them that was driving me so crazy! The bond between them had so much depth and need that at times I actually felt uncomfortable seeing it, like I was intruding which was very strange as I’ve never had that reaction to a romance novel, but I also loved it. And damn when they finally give into their passion – wow, let’s just say the queen of dirty-talk really outdid herself with this one ;-)
This has been and OUTSTANDING SERIES and I loved each and every book. Oh how I love this series, these four siblings that needed this road-trip to find their paths back to each other and finding their perfect HEA *happy sigh*
Tessa Bailey is one of my all time favorite romance authors. She writes the best dirty-talk with scorching romance, fantastic characters and so much emotion. I can’t recommend her and this series enough. READ IT.
September 26, 2017
This book was on a whole new level of epic proportions. I can't believe this road trip is finally over, but wow what a fantastic journey it has been. We hit the last leg of the Clarksons trip to Coney Island, where the siblings will jump into the ocean on New Years Day. All thanks to the dying wish of their mother Miriam. I was absolutely not prepared for the rollercoaster of emotions, twists, and turns of Belmont and Sage's story. It's been building throughout the first three books, and the payoff was WELL worth the wait in this fourth and final book. Absolute magic.
Belmont is the strong silent type who is fighting so many internal demons he's not sure which way is up sometimes. Having a different father than his younger three siblings, and growing up witnessing his mothers sadness, has left him feeling incomplete. He also suffered a childhood trauma that he still hasn't recovered from. He has many secrets. Secrets that eat away and fuel the darkness inside him. His siblings rely on him and look to him for answers. He's the one who convinced them to go on this road trip, even though he wasn't sure of it himself. But he knew that their mother was up to something. He just has to wait and find out what it is....
In this last book we see Sage leaving Belmont to go home and handle her family's problems. She has her own secrets that she's been keeping. Of course that doesn't last very long before Belmont finds her and lets her know that he will stop at nothing to lighten her load. Up until now their need to hold each other has been platonic. Just two people helping to ease each other's burdens for a little while. Belmont held back his physical desires for more with Sage because he didn't know if she felt the same way. He didn't know that she was also benefiting from their situation....and that she desired him as well. Sage recognized the start to the unhealthy co-dependency that has formed over time. Relying on each other too much was a big problem. They both have to learn to handle their issues as individuals, and only then can they be strong together. Belmont gets to know the real Sage while in her hometown, and not just the perfect version he has in his mind. He also finds himself sharing his secrets with her. Lightening the load in his mind and heart as he speaks the words out loud to her.
This is an absolutely beautiful journey of growth and love and trust. Two people finding their own way, and becoming a stronger whole together. They are a force to be reckoned with, and this book hit every single feel possible. Bailey has taken her skills to an entire new universe with this one. She's just so clever. The plot twists and turns she kept throwing out were phenomenal. I did not see them coming. She deals with real life issues that are raw and heartbreaking, but so necessary. And it was so satisfying in the end. To have everything from all 4 books finally come full circle was magical. It was perfection. I feel so complete after finishing their story, and I'm so full of joy. I'm sad it's over, but the feeling of this family forming an unbreakable bond along this journey makes me so happy.
And let's not forget the show stealer--Miriam Clarkson. Her journal entries in each book were so powerful that she was the heart of this series. A wonderful woman who loved her children deeply and with all her might. She. Was. Fierce. I adore her.
Belmont is the strong silent type who is fighting so many internal demons he's not sure which way is up sometimes. Having a different father than his younger three siblings, and growing up witnessing his mothers sadness, has left him feeling incomplete. He also suffered a childhood trauma that he still hasn't recovered from. He has many secrets. Secrets that eat away and fuel the darkness inside him. His siblings rely on him and look to him for answers. He's the one who convinced them to go on this road trip, even though he wasn't sure of it himself. But he knew that their mother was up to something. He just has to wait and find out what it is....
In this last book we see Sage leaving Belmont to go home and handle her family's problems. She has her own secrets that she's been keeping. Of course that doesn't last very long before Belmont finds her and lets her know that he will stop at nothing to lighten her load. Up until now their need to hold each other has been platonic. Just two people helping to ease each other's burdens for a little while. Belmont held back his physical desires for more with Sage because he didn't know if she felt the same way. He didn't know that she was also benefiting from their situation....and that she desired him as well. Sage recognized the start to the unhealthy co-dependency that has formed over time. Relying on each other too much was a big problem. They both have to learn to handle their issues as individuals, and only then can they be strong together. Belmont gets to know the real Sage while in her hometown, and not just the perfect version he has in his mind. He also finds himself sharing his secrets with her. Lightening the load in his mind and heart as he speaks the words out loud to her.
This is an absolutely beautiful journey of growth and love and trust. Two people finding their own way, and becoming a stronger whole together. They are a force to be reckoned with, and this book hit every single feel possible. Bailey has taken her skills to an entire new universe with this one. She's just so clever. The plot twists and turns she kept throwing out were phenomenal. I did not see them coming. She deals with real life issues that are raw and heartbreaking, but so necessary. And it was so satisfying in the end. To have everything from all 4 books finally come full circle was magical. It was perfection. I feel so complete after finishing their story, and I'm so full of joy. I'm sad it's over, but the feeling of this family forming an unbreakable bond along this journey makes me so happy.
And let's not forget the show stealer--Miriam Clarkson. Her journal entries in each book were so powerful that she was the heart of this series. A wonderful woman who loved her children deeply and with all her might. She. Was. Fierce. I adore her.
February 8, 2023
If I wasn’t sick with nothing else to do, I would not have finished this shockingly awful book.
Here’s some highlights of the weirdest shit
- Was pushed into a well by his brothers dad
- A goat was in the well?
- Sex in a church by 2 virgins
- She takes her dads coal mining job
- He takes her coal mining job and PTSD bc the well
- The drug use references
- Marrying the coal mine owner to get him out of the mine
- Did he almost rape her?
- “Babe stop this isn’t you” as he tries to kill a man
How did Tessa Bailey get good at writing? How did she write this and then write it happened one summer? This is not the same author.
Here’s some highlights of the weirdest shit
- Was pushed into a well by his brothers dad
- A goat was in the well?
- Sex in a church by 2 virgins
- She takes her dads coal mining job
- He takes her coal mining job and PTSD bc the well
- The drug use references
- Marrying the coal mine owner to get him out of the mine
- Did he almost rape her?
- “Babe stop this isn’t you” as he tries to kill a man
How did Tessa Bailey get good at writing? How did she write this and then write it happened one summer? This is not the same author.
October 7, 2017
Belmont and Sage are so intense, that they should get a room, cuddle and have sexy times, and leave us be. Seriously!
Belmont looked like a character with certain traits of autism, but then other times behaved just like and average, overdramatic romeo. And Sage went along with it with her own sweeter than sugar, innocent maiden behaviour.
Those two are perfect for each other, but not for me. And if you're allergic to melodramatic lovers, then you shouldn't pick this book up.
Belmont looked like a character with certain traits of autism, but then other times behaved just like and average, overdramatic romeo. And Sage went along with it with her own sweeter than sugar, innocent maiden behaviour.
Those two are perfect for each other, but not for me. And if you're allergic to melodramatic lovers, then you shouldn't pick this book up.
September 28, 2017
ARC provided by publisher in exchange for an honest review
Too Beautiful To Break is hands down my favorite of the Romancing the Clarksons Series. THIS BOOK was utter perfection. It was EVERYTHING you could have wanted from a Tessa Bailey book. It had romance, passion, raw emotions and all the feels. As far as the characters, Belmont and Sage stole my heart!!!
Too Beautiful To Break was a perfect and fitting title for this book. It showcased how Belmont and Sage were two broken souls who were absolutely perfect for one another. Yes they were co-dependent on another and yet they found healing, peace, and love together. If there is ever a character that called to you, it was Belmont. His intensity, sincerity, and flawed personality was absolutely beautiful. This book was poignant, heartbreaking, gripping and most importantly too beautiful. So if you are looking for a story that captures the true essence of love, sacrifice, and healing then I highly recommend you to read this book.
Tessa Bailey
Too Beautiful To Break is hands down my favorite of the Romancing the Clarksons Series. THIS BOOK was utter perfection. It was EVERYTHING you could have wanted from a Tessa Bailey book. It had romance, passion, raw emotions and all the feels. As far as the characters, Belmont and Sage stole my heart!!!
Too Beautiful To Break was a perfect and fitting title for this book. It showcased how Belmont and Sage were two broken souls who were absolutely perfect for one another. Yes they were co-dependent on another and yet they found healing, peace, and love together. If there is ever a character that called to you, it was Belmont. His intensity, sincerity, and flawed personality was absolutely beautiful. This book was poignant, heartbreaking, gripping and most importantly too beautiful. So if you are looking for a story that captures the true essence of love, sacrifice, and healing then I highly recommend you to read this book.
Tessa Bailey
December 29, 2018
What I dream love should be…
After reading romance for a long, long time, my vision of love has changed over the years to encompass a lot more than the nuclear family. At the heart of any love though is respect, empathy, desire and supportiveness. Belmont and Sage have all these traits and more…
Sage is hiding something and instead of getting angry or defensive, Belmont is the opposite. He is determined to find out what is wrong, for himself but even more for Sage. He is relentless in his pursuit of the truth and his need for her to know how far he will go to love and protect her. Not swooning yet? Oh wait, you will be. At every turn he is simply there. With every resource at his disposal, with everything he can offer, he is not letting her go…
Bel and Sage ended this series so I know I have missed so much in the Clarkson’s sibling relationship. I can see how close they are and I need start at the beginning and learn it all! ~Diane, 3.5 stars
After reading romance for a long, long time, my vision of love has changed over the years to encompass a lot more than the nuclear family. At the heart of any love though is respect, empathy, desire and supportiveness. Belmont and Sage have all these traits and more…
Sage is hiding something and instead of getting angry or defensive, Belmont is the opposite. He is determined to find out what is wrong, for himself but even more for Sage. He is relentless in his pursuit of the truth and his need for her to know how far he will go to love and protect her. Not swooning yet? Oh wait, you will be. At every turn he is simply there. With every resource at his disposal, with everything he can offer, he is not letting her go…
Bel and Sage ended this series so I know I have missed so much in the Clarkson’s sibling relationship. I can see how close they are and I need start at the beginning and learn it all! ~Diane, 3.5 stars
April 18, 2023
AWWWWWW. This was my favorite book out of the series, just like I knew it would be. I loved all of their stories but Sage and Belmont…… their love for each other was so powerful and wonderful. I loved how they saw that their dependency on each other could become toxic and decided to set boundaries and work it out together. ❤️❤️❤️❤️
January 28, 2023
I don't know what was going on with this book but I was not a very big fan! It felt disjointed to me and like it jumped all over the place. The plot felt like something from the 1950s with Sage having to go work in a mine to pay off her parent's debt. There was Tessa Bailey's trademark spicy/steamy scenes and I did enjoy the ending that brought things full circle and had a great HEA for the whole Clarkson sibling gang, but it wasn't enough to make it more than a 3 star read for me. The audio was decent and I do like the new redesigned covers, for what its worth.
January 20, 2020
So, so over the top. I'm glad my least favorite saga is finally over.
September 27, 2017
So the smut is a 5 (unsurprising for Tessa Bailey, the master at this) but the storyline is barely a 3. My friend called it "four merciful stars" and I laughed at how true that was. I cringed and eye rolled for a good part of the unnecessary and fairly ridiculous plot running through it, but! I love Belmont and Sage together so much that I forgave the type of flaws that I'd normally have rated much lower.
God, this lady can write sex scenes! I can never be on her level.
God, this lady can write sex scenes! I can never be on her level.
May 4, 2023
Best one in the series! Hands down!
February 16, 2024
Whole series is cute
Read
August 21, 2023I didn't like anything about this. It was sooo melodramatic and corny. From start to finish, the tone was so dramatic and deep but I was.. completely unmoved. Belmont and Sage acted like it was their first day on planet Earth - their dialogue was so bizarre.
Don't get it twisted, I'm still the president of Tessa Bailey's fan club but this one was NOT for me.
Don't get it twisted, I'm still the president of Tessa Bailey's fan club but this one was NOT for me.
September 10, 2023
3.5 stars rounded to 4
I liked this but I just felt confused half the time. And even though we've seen the connection between Sage and Belmont throughout all 4 books, I just felt that we didn't see enough of that connection, chemistry, and fire
I liked this but I just felt confused half the time. And even though we've seen the connection between Sage and Belmont throughout all 4 books, I just felt that we didn't see enough of that connection, chemistry, and fire
September 25, 2017
I was slayed by this book. Belmont( and of course Sage) were bigger than I could have imagined. What has been building in these last three books, has the stage set perfectly by Ms. Bailey to sweep you off your feet.
While you can read this on it's own, I truly think you need to submerse yourself into all things Clarkson and read from book one. It paints the map to each of them ( and their road trip) throughout each book. We get pieces of each sibling that shine through at the least expected moments and this book culminates with the man who holds the family together. He just doesn't realize how much his siblings look to him as the keystone to the Clarkson clan.
This is another side to the emotional range of Bailey that vaults her yet again to another extraordinary level. There is so much to say with this book that I find it almost impossible to not give away any of the most minute details to this beautiful story because I want you, as the reader, to be swept off your feet just as I was.
What I can say, is that both Sage and Bel grow as their own person along side with being what they need for each other. A truly arduous task for two people who are really part of a whole. Souls that were destined to be intertwined. But with that comes with: where does one person stop and the other start.
There were some soul stealing, breath taking moments through out the pages of the book . By the time you reach the end of this book you are going to need a hangover cure. It took me a few days to shake off the wonderful daze I was left in. I did not want to part ways with this series but it was finished on a beautiful note. One that I can revisit like long lost friends.
I have become invested in this series and Belmont was the most stunning bow on a glorious gift.
Thank you Tessa from the bottom of my book loving, romance reading heart. This series has left me with words that will stay with me a lifetime.
XOXO BABE!!
Happy Reading~ Sherry
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While you can read this on it's own, I truly think you need to submerse yourself into all things Clarkson and read from book one. It paints the map to each of them ( and their road trip) throughout each book. We get pieces of each sibling that shine through at the least expected moments and this book culminates with the man who holds the family together. He just doesn't realize how much his siblings look to him as the keystone to the Clarkson clan.
This is another side to the emotional range of Bailey that vaults her yet again to another extraordinary level. There is so much to say with this book that I find it almost impossible to not give away any of the most minute details to this beautiful story because I want you, as the reader, to be swept off your feet just as I was.
What I can say, is that both Sage and Bel grow as their own person along side with being what they need for each other. A truly arduous task for two people who are really part of a whole. Souls that were destined to be intertwined. But with that comes with: where does one person stop and the other start.
There were some soul stealing, breath taking moments through out the pages of the book . By the time you reach the end of this book you are going to need a hangover cure. It took me a few days to shake off the wonderful daze I was left in. I did not want to part ways with this series but it was finished on a beautiful note. One that I can revisit like long lost friends.
I have become invested in this series and Belmont was the most stunning bow on a glorious gift.
Thank you Tessa from the bottom of my book loving, romance reading heart. This series has left me with words that will stay with me a lifetime.
XOXO BABE!!
Happy Reading~ Sherry
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