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Catch Twenty-Two
He can't stand anything about her, but can't keep his hands off of her.
Frankie
I wasn't looking for him.
He found me.
With his sexy smirk and irresistible body.
I wanted nothing to do with someone like him.
Judgmental and brooding.
So full of himself.
But now, I'm stuck playing the fool.
Falling for him.
And losing it all.
If only for one night.
ZEKE
Stuffy, rich, entitled.
The kind of girl that gets what she wants.
When she wants it.
And I want nothing to do with her.
Yet, I can't stay away.
I'm drawn to her kindness and compassion.
Her beauty.
She holds me when the pain won't subside.
And now, if I can help it, I'm going to hold on to her…
Forever.
Frankie
I wasn't looking for him.
He found me.
With his sexy smirk and irresistible body.
I wanted nothing to do with someone like him.
Judgmental and brooding.
So full of himself.
But now, I'm stuck playing the fool.
Falling for him.
And losing it all.
If only for one night.
ZEKE
Stuffy, rich, entitled.
The kind of girl that gets what she wants.
When she wants it.
And I want nothing to do with her.
Yet, I can't stay away.
I'm drawn to her kindness and compassion.
Her beauty.
She holds me when the pain won't subside.
And now, if I can help it, I'm going to hold on to her…
Forever.
256 pages, Paperback
Published March 23, 2020
About the author
Marie James
82 books2,731 followersMarie James is a mother of two boys and wife of 17 years. She's spent most of her life lifetime living in central Texas, with only short stays in South Carolina, Alabama, and Florida. Her passions include reading everything under the sun and sewing, although she doesn't get to sew much these days!.
Writing has always been a passion and she's enjoying every step of the journey!
Writing has always been a passion and she's enjoying every step of the journey!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 214 reviews
June 12, 2020
I wanted to hate this guy but I just couldn’t!
The “Hero” in this story Ezekiel, is a bully from the start. He knows he is doing it and realizes he has no valid reason for it but he can’t seem to help himself. His reasons change throughout the story but you just feel for this guy because each of his reasons are so real. Not that it is an excuse for the way he treats Frankie, who is a very nice girl and doesn’t deserve any of it.
However, what he does is what a lot of teenagers do when they are backed into a corner or when their world is coming apart at the seems. They lash out at someone close to them or someone available. In Zeke’s case, Frankie is that person, she is the symbol for what is happening in his life so it sort of makes sense that it is her.
Zeke’s family lost the ranch that was in the family for generations and was supposed to be handed down to him one day. Now he and his Dad work on Frankie’s grandmothers ranch and live in the foreman’s house on her land. Zeke is having to help his Dad more and more and will probably have to give up football this year (his senior year), to help out on the ranch. That was supposed to be his ticket out. Now he is looking to spend his life working for other people on ranches he doesn’t own and living in houses that aren’t his, and he sees his future slipping away.
His father and Frankie’s Nan have been talking up Frankie to him for weeks before she arrives for the summer about what a good match they will make and Zeke sees it as one more choice being taken from him. So when she arrives for the summer her is very nice and polite in front of everyone but mean and nasty to her when they are alone. He also is fiercely attracted to her and that makes him hate her even more, and Frankie can’t figure him out because one minute he will be nice to her and the next will turn on her.
The romance between Zeke and Frankie is hot and has so many emotions because they go through so much together and they become friends. But Zeke just doesn’t know what to do with his emotions sometimes and he always seems to do the wrong thing and hurts Frankie. I really enjoyed this story, especially how it all came together.
I voluntarily read & reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts & opinions are my own.
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The “Hero” in this story Ezekiel, is a bully from the start. He knows he is doing it and realizes he has no valid reason for it but he can’t seem to help himself. His reasons change throughout the story but you just feel for this guy because each of his reasons are so real. Not that it is an excuse for the way he treats Frankie, who is a very nice girl and doesn’t deserve any of it.
However, what he does is what a lot of teenagers do when they are backed into a corner or when their world is coming apart at the seems. They lash out at someone close to them or someone available. In Zeke’s case, Frankie is that person, she is the symbol for what is happening in his life so it sort of makes sense that it is her.
Zeke’s family lost the ranch that was in the family for generations and was supposed to be handed down to him one day. Now he and his Dad work on Frankie’s grandmothers ranch and live in the foreman’s house on her land. Zeke is having to help his Dad more and more and will probably have to give up football this year (his senior year), to help out on the ranch. That was supposed to be his ticket out. Now he is looking to spend his life working for other people on ranches he doesn’t own and living in houses that aren’t his, and he sees his future slipping away.
His father and Frankie’s Nan have been talking up Frankie to him for weeks before she arrives for the summer about what a good match they will make and Zeke sees it as one more choice being taken from him. So when she arrives for the summer her is very nice and polite in front of everyone but mean and nasty to her when they are alone. He also is fiercely attracted to her and that makes him hate her even more, and Frankie can’t figure him out because one minute he will be nice to her and the next will turn on her.
The romance between Zeke and Frankie is hot and has so many emotions because they go through so much together and they become friends. But Zeke just doesn’t know what to do with his emotions sometimes and he always seems to do the wrong thing and hurts Frankie. I really enjoyed this story, especially how it all came together.
I voluntarily read & reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts & opinions are my own.
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March 29, 2020
2 stars
another book where i wanted to like it but couldn't because the H is the most unswoonworthy hero i've ever read.
after reading the first book, i was so intrigued with what the hell is happening with Frankie (h) and the mysterious farmboy, Zeke (H), since she went away to stay with her grandma for the summer and work on their ranch. i knew there was gonna be hate to love, enemies to lovers here and im usually a sucker for those but damn Zeke is just too mean the entire book and not even in a likeable way.
i know, i know. this IS a bully romance, etc. but this dude only made the h smile once in the first 80% of the story and that says a lot.
but anyways, let's start with,
what i liked:
↠ Dalton & Piper:
these two were the MCs in the first one (Dalton was Piper's former bully but lost all his memories after an accident). i just really loved how supportive and protective these two were to Frankie since the dumbass H is a coward.
↠ the carnival/haunted house scene:
i am a sucker for carnival/fair scenes in books since it brings the nostalgia out of me and this was the only time where Zeke wasn't an asshole and made Frankie smile but yeah. he ended up ruining the night too.
↠ both MCs are virgins.
FINALLY a H who's not a ho. thank you jesus.
and now let's move on with,
what i didn't like (SPOILERS):
↠ their first sex scene
bruh. i don't know about you but when a girl specifically reminds a guy that he needs to wear a condom, I EXPECT HIM TO 👏🏼. but did our H here wear a condom? nah. he didn't wear one because it was too dark and the damn thing wouldn't roll down, so he continued to do the deed, which then lead to... well you know. an unexpected pregnancy. that whole scene was just not it.
↠ the first 80% aka the H being a 😺 (major spoilers)
the time they spent in the farm was a little too boring for me since this went on for 50% of the book. there were a lot of time jumps here, the MCs just ignoring each other, and H going all hot and cold to the h kissing her then calling her a slut, etc.
and then, when he finally moves into her own home and goes to her school (after they have already been intimate by the way) in the second half, does he finally get his head out of his ass and treat her like a queen? nope. he uses the girl who has been bullying the h for a while now as a crutch/shield just so he wouldn't talk to her.
then, another time jump happens (2 months) where the MCs ignore each other and barely interact with one another and then boom. she's pregnant. does our H finally step up when he sees that h is being bullied in front of the whole school? nope. he walks away, moves out of her home and ignores her for two days. and then he finally steps up in the last 20% which is too little too late for me.
* * *
i really do understand why he was like that since he lost everything (his home and his dad) so he needed control in his life and in order for him to that, he has to be mean and push the h away. i understand him doing this when they were still in the farm but i don't really understand his actions when he transferred to her school, ignoring the h and used OW to make her jealous. his reasoning and excuse for that was all over the place. like, she had the right to be mad and not him.
but most of the "swoony things" that i was looking for in the last 20% was mostly told and not shown and they barely even interacted in the second half so i wasn't really satisfied with his change or the resolution.
another book where i wanted to like it but couldn't because the H is the most unswoonworthy hero i've ever read.
after reading the first book, i was so intrigued with what the hell is happening with Frankie (h) and the mysterious farmboy, Zeke (H), since she went away to stay with her grandma for the summer and work on their ranch. i knew there was gonna be hate to love, enemies to lovers here and im usually a sucker for those but damn Zeke is just too mean the entire book and not even in a likeable way.
i know, i know. this IS a bully romance, etc. but this dude only made the h smile once in the first 80% of the story and that says a lot.
but anyways, let's start with,
what i liked:
↠ Dalton & Piper:
these two were the MCs in the first one (Dalton was Piper's former bully but lost all his memories after an accident). i just really loved how supportive and protective these two were to Frankie since the dumbass H is a coward.
↠ the carnival/haunted house scene:
i am a sucker for carnival/fair scenes in books since it brings the nostalgia out of me and this was the only time where Zeke wasn't an asshole and made Frankie smile but yeah. he ended up ruining the night too.
↠ both MCs are virgins.
FINALLY a H who's not a ho. thank you jesus.
and now let's move on with,
what i didn't like (SPOILERS):
↠ their first sex scene
bruh. i don't know about you but when a girl specifically reminds a guy that he needs to wear a condom, I EXPECT HIM TO 👏🏼. but did our H here wear a condom? nah. he didn't wear one because it was too dark and the damn thing wouldn't roll down, so he continued to do the deed, which then lead to... well you know. an unexpected pregnancy. that whole scene was just not it.
↠ the first 80% aka the H being a 😺 (major spoilers)
the time they spent in the farm was a little too boring for me since this went on for 50% of the book. there were a lot of time jumps here, the MCs just ignoring each other, and H going all hot and cold to the h kissing her then calling her a slut, etc.
and then, when he finally moves into her own home and goes to her school (after they have already been intimate by the way) in the second half, does he finally get his head out of his ass and treat her like a queen? nope. he uses the girl who has been bullying the h for a while now as a crutch/shield just so he wouldn't talk to her.
then, another time jump happens (2 months) where the MCs ignore each other and barely interact with one another and then boom. she's pregnant. does our H finally step up when he sees that h is being bullied in front of the whole school? nope. he walks away, moves out of her home and ignores her for two days. and then he finally steps up in the last 20% which is too little too late for me.
* * *
i really do understand why he was like that since he lost everything (his home and his dad) so he needed control in his life and in order for him to that, he has to be mean and push the h away. i understand him doing this when they were still in the farm but i don't really understand his actions when he transferred to her school, ignoring the h and used OW to make her jealous. his reasoning and excuse for that was all over the place. like, she had the right to be mad and not him.
but most of the "swoony things" that i was looking for in the last 20% was mostly told and not shown and they barely even interacted in the second half so i wasn't really satisfied with his change or the resolution.
March 28, 2020
In short, we spent 95% of the book seeing the guy treating the girl like garbage so in the penultimate chapter we have the old litany: "Oh, I'm sorry that I became an abusive idiot but my dad died so it gives me a free pass to do that! But I reeeeeeeeeally loved you all this time!" And of course the doormat answers: "Oh! Ok, now that it is explained I forgive you! " aaaand ta-da!! HEA! Something new please?🤦♀️🤦♀️🤦♀️
March 23, 2020
Holy mother of teen angst...
This book has everything I love in a good high-school bully romance.
You have the sweet heroine that is extremely kind but is also smart and has a backbone.
You have the ridiculously charming hero who is a douche, but then sweet, but then terrible, but then amazing, and just keeps giving you such a whiplash.
I couldn't put this down and read it in one sitting.
My first book from Marie James was the first book in this series One-Eighty, and I was very pleasantly surprised by her writing. Coming into the second book I had so many questions. Catch Twenty-Two opens in the same timeline that One-Eighty is happening and then moves forward a few more months after Book 1 finishes.
This time around we follow Frankie and Zeke. In the first part, Frankie is visiting her grandma's ranch, and Zeke along with his dad are helpers in the property. Then, a series of events leads to Zeke moving in with Frankie's family as she goes back home to Westover, Colorado - joining Piper and Dalton in Westover Prep.
And it's so angsty and soo dramatic, but SO good. I'm utterly invested in these characters and can't wait to keep reading more about them.
I just didn't give Catch Twenty-Two Five Stars because it ended up having a trope that I'm really not a fan, which is . But, putting that aside I love this world that Marie James created and will definitely keep binging on this series.
ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review
This book has everything I love in a good high-school bully romance.
You have the sweet heroine that is extremely kind but is also smart and has a backbone.
You have the ridiculously charming hero who is a douche, but then sweet, but then terrible, but then amazing, and just keeps giving you such a whiplash.
I couldn't put this down and read it in one sitting.
My first book from Marie James was the first book in this series One-Eighty, and I was very pleasantly surprised by her writing. Coming into the second book I had so many questions. Catch Twenty-Two opens in the same timeline that One-Eighty is happening and then moves forward a few more months after Book 1 finishes.
This time around we follow Frankie and Zeke. In the first part, Frankie is visiting her grandma's ranch, and Zeke along with his dad are helpers in the property. Then, a series of events leads to Zeke moving in with Frankie's family as she goes back home to Westover, Colorado - joining Piper and Dalton in Westover Prep.
And it's so angsty and soo dramatic, but SO good. I'm utterly invested in these characters and can't wait to keep reading more about them.
I just didn't give Catch Twenty-Two Five Stars because it ended up having a trope that I'm really not a fan, which is . But, putting that aside I love this world that Marie James created and will definitely keep binging on this series.
ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review
March 25, 2020
3.5 Stars ⭐️
March 29, 2020
I have been dying to get my hand on Frankie and Zeke’s book since I read One Eighty and fell in love with Dalton and Piper. The little teasers we got from the phone conversations between Piper and Frankie over the holidays had me coming up with all sorts of wild guesses as to what their story was going to be.
I am not a massive bully romance fan but I do enjoy my new adult / young adult romance and I have to say that Marie James did it all to perfection. She made me hate these guys yet still love them so much. I completely sympathised with everything Zeke was going through. Now don’t get me wrong he was a colossal dick and some of his choices were beyond stupid, especially in the second half of the story. And although my heart broke for all that he was going through I still wanted him to get a good smack in the mouth and a come to Jesus moment.
Frankie was so mature and I loved that she was prepared to listen and give him the opportunity he didn’t deserve to prove his sincerity in making up for all his mistakes. She was so alone it made my heart hurt for her. I just wanted to see her parents to wake up and realise they weren't present in their daughters life. But luckily she had Piper to shower her with the love and affection she deserved and Dalton to look out for them both.
I really was hoping to get more of Dalton and Piper and I was glad that they were present in the second half of this book. But I really would have loved to see Dalton get his memory back. That said they were still as great together as they were in their own book so I was very happy to get what I did of them and I loved that Dalton and Zeke became such good friends. I would have loved to get more of the new foreman in Utah because he was just such a great secondary character. But oh well I guess I’ll just wait for Drea’s book because damn that is already shaping up to be unputdownable. And hopefully it follows in the footsteps of this one and we get more Piper and Dalton and Zeke and Frankie.
I am not a massive bully romance fan but I do enjoy my new adult / young adult romance and I have to say that Marie James did it all to perfection. She made me hate these guys yet still love them so much. I completely sympathised with everything Zeke was going through. Now don’t get me wrong he was a colossal dick and some of his choices were beyond stupid, especially in the second half of the story. And although my heart broke for all that he was going through I still wanted him to get a good smack in the mouth and a come to Jesus moment.
Frankie was so mature and I loved that she was prepared to listen and give him the opportunity he didn’t deserve to prove his sincerity in making up for all his mistakes. She was so alone it made my heart hurt for her. I just wanted to see her parents to wake up and realise they weren't present in their daughters life. But luckily she had Piper to shower her with the love and affection she deserved and Dalton to look out for them both.
I really was hoping to get more of Dalton and Piper and I was glad that they were present in the second half of this book. But I really would have loved to see Dalton get his memory back. That said they were still as great together as they were in their own book so I was very happy to get what I did of them and I loved that Dalton and Zeke became such good friends. I would have loved to get more of the new foreman in Utah because he was just such a great secondary character. But oh well I guess I’ll just wait for Drea’s book because damn that is already shaping up to be unputdownable. And hopefully it follows in the footsteps of this one and we get more Piper and Dalton and Zeke and Frankie.
June 11, 2022
So I just HAD TO read this one and be done with this series (for now, or forever?).
As far as a bully romances go - I'm a fan of them, but only when certain aspects are met. I'm ok with bullying from the H side, when it's on a personal level and not too cruel. Dragging the whole high-school to the conflict is definitely NOT my favorite!
The first book unfortunately has a past of bullying in a bigger group, thankfully we only see the aftermath of it and the H is practically a changed individual, grovelling for most of the book.
This second book starts well for me - located at a ranch in Utah, there's a lot of angst betweent the MCs, mainly from the H side, who is constantly reminded of this wonderful girl coming for the summer to visit her Nana. He's fed up of it and takes it on her. Good start, angsty and steamy.
Unfortunately, the second part takes place in her home town, where she is a target of bullies from high-school and the Hero basically joins them. There is some shitty OW drama, because of course he becomes a "friend" with the biggest Capital B and nemesis of h at the same time!!
The sad part is that it's after they share intimate moments together, and yet he acts as the biggest jerk ever! For the 80% of the book he deserved nothing but kick in the nuts, and those last 20% don't make up for the rest. He is one of the worst Heroes I've read in a long time!! 
I'm genuinely sorry for the heroine and her fate - being pregnant before the age of 18 with a coward and ass isn't something I wish for anyone! That said I don't believe his grovel in the end one bit...
1.5 stars and only because the writing is good! Rounded up because they both are virgins.
March 12, 2020
“Silly little girl,” he rasps in my ear. “Did you really think I'd kiss you?”
This is book 2 in the Westover Prep Series, where we get to meet Frankie and Zeke.
I love bully romance books. This one again strays a bit from the standard format.
When Frankie arrives at Nan's house for the summer, she meets Zeke. Zeke’s family lost the ranch that was in the family for generations. Ranch that was supposed to be handed down to him one day. Now he and his Dad work on Frankie’s grandmothers ranch and live in the foreman’s house on Nan's land.
Frankie loves the idea of spending the summer with her Nan, simply because that means she gets to have a breather from all the bullying by the teens at her school.
Zeke is one very handsome, strong boy and Frankie finds herself attracted to him. While he's a gentleman to Frankie in front of Nan, he's nothing but nasty and mean when Nan's not around.
In the events that follow, we are witnessing Zeke's world falling apart. He struggles and he grieves, and he's taking it all on Frankie.
There's a distance between them now. But when Frankie finds out a secret of her own, they are forced to face it together.
Will they make it this time and grow stronger together?
Pick it up is see it by yourself. Because it's so worth the read. So beautiful.
This is book 2 in the Westover Prep Series, where we get to meet Frankie and Zeke.
I love bully romance books. This one again strays a bit from the standard format.
When Frankie arrives at Nan's house for the summer, she meets Zeke. Zeke’s family lost the ranch that was in the family for generations. Ranch that was supposed to be handed down to him one day. Now he and his Dad work on Frankie’s grandmothers ranch and live in the foreman’s house on Nan's land.
Frankie loves the idea of spending the summer with her Nan, simply because that means she gets to have a breather from all the bullying by the teens at her school.
Zeke is one very handsome, strong boy and Frankie finds herself attracted to him. While he's a gentleman to Frankie in front of Nan, he's nothing but nasty and mean when Nan's not around.
In the events that follow, we are witnessing Zeke's world falling apart. He struggles and he grieves, and he's taking it all on Frankie.
There's a distance between them now. But when Frankie finds out a secret of her own, they are forced to face it together.
Will they make it this time and grow stronger together?
Pick it up is see it by yourself. Because it's so worth the read. So beautiful.
March 22, 2020
Catch Twenty-Two is a bully romance that will fill you with angst and have you torn between loving and hating Zeke. This second book in the Westover Prep series gives us Zeke and Frankie’s story and fills in some blanks from book one. Their story is emotional, drama packed and gives you a surprise or two that you don’t see coming. As you take the journey between love and hate, Frankie’s kind heart and strength will draw you in and Zeke’s outbursts between good and bad will have you second guessing his every intention. As you ride out the highs and lows and your heart suffers a battering with all the emotions flying, you will finally be left with happiness for these two. A steamy, angsty story that will have you on the edge of your seat and an epilogue that might just leave you needing more in this series.
May 3, 2020
loved the first book but didn’t really enjoy this 😔
Read
March 24, 2020
Catch Twenty-Two is the second book in the Westover Prep series. This is Zeke and Frankie's story and it begins on a ranch in Utah, not at Westover Prep!
Zeke isn't as hate-able as Dalton was in the beginning. Zeke is a teenage boy who feels like he has absolutely NO control over his life. His family is struggling financially and he knows that the best he will ever be is a ranch hand. So, he does what many teenagers do when they are frustrated: they lash out at someone. So, he says some horrible things, but as an outsider, you can understand it. Dalton, on the other hand, went out of his way to be horrible to Piper and Frankie for YEARS. Now, Zeke was still a jerk; just a more understandable jerk.
Frankie was introduced to us in book 1, but we really get to understand her in Catch Twenty-Two. She, like Piper, has been bullied for as long as she can remember and sort of just expects it. She does have moments where she stands up to Zeke and I really enjoyed seeing that side of her. I also appreciated that her actions when standing up to him weren't over the top. Standing up to a bully is tough and it felt very realistic of her to respond in smaller actions.
Zeke and Frankie have chemistry and getting Zeke's POV makes that really clear. Zeke is such a complicated character that I think lots of readers will connect with him. Catch Twenty-Two will have readers cheering for Zeke and Frankie!
POV: dual 1st
Tears: no
Trope: opposites attract, cowboy, bully
Triggers: none
Series/Standalone: standalone
Cliffhanger: [spoiler]no[/spoiler]
HEA: [spoiler]yes[/spoiler]
[rating-report]
How to Date a Douchebag series by Sara Ney, Surviving Amber Springs by Siobhan Davis...then you will probably like Catch Twenty-Two!
Catch Twenty-Two
March 23, 2020
The Bully Romance Trope isn't something I tend to read often but I have to say the last two books I have read by Marie James has given me bullies I hate to love, especially in CATCH TWENTY-TWO. Zeke is a guy so filled with anger the only way he knows to release it is to take it out on the person that he thinks deserves it, whether she really does or not. Frankie is like a Bully magnet she is constantly picked on in school so when she get to go to her Nan's for the summer she thinks she is taking a three month break from it only to be thrown into her own personal hell all over again.
You can see my full review and enter a giveaway for a chance to win a $25 Amazon GC and a signed set of both books in the series HERE
**I have voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Readers Copy of this book for my Blog, Nadine's Obsessed with Books**
Where you can find me: https://linktr.ee/NadineBookaholic
You can see my full review and enter a giveaway for a chance to win a $25 Amazon GC and a signed set of both books in the series HERE
**I have voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Readers Copy of this book for my Blog, Nadine's Obsessed with Books**Where you can find me: https://linktr.ee/NadineBookaholic
May 7, 2020
Eh, it was an okay book. After the first one, I was dying to find out about Frankie and Zeke but now.. it just annoyed me.
Catch Twenty-Two rubbed me the wrong way sometimes. In it, you will meet Frankie and Zeke. Frankie is Piper's best friend, who you met in the first book. These two had an interesting meeting. I did find it odd that her grandma and his parents were pushing for them to date without even meeting one another? Yeah, that was weird.
Other than that, these two have a hot and cold relationship. It was laughable when he said that she couldn't get pregnant on the first time. Then she did absolutely nothing when she got home. So to say that I wasn't one bit surprised about their uh-oh baby is completely true.
Then there's the high school drama with that awful Bryn girl. Ugh, she needs a hobby stat. The only things that constantly disappointed me were:
1) How her parents treated her hurt me so much. They made me so freaking angry too and they don't really deserve her. I hope she makes them grovel.
2) The way Zeke treated her throughout the book and then was magically absolved from everything the moment he said I love you. Stupid pregnancy hormones clouded Frankie's judgement.
In the end, it was an okay sequel. I have no idea if there is going to be another book in this series and if there is.. I might be a little hesitant to dive into it.
Catch Twenty-Two rubbed me the wrong way sometimes. In it, you will meet Frankie and Zeke. Frankie is Piper's best friend, who you met in the first book. These two had an interesting meeting. I did find it odd that her grandma and his parents were pushing for them to date without even meeting one another? Yeah, that was weird.
Other than that, these two have a hot and cold relationship. It was laughable when he said that she couldn't get pregnant on the first time. Then she did absolutely nothing when she got home. So to say that I wasn't one bit surprised about their uh-oh baby is completely true.
Then there's the high school drama with that awful Bryn girl. Ugh, she needs a hobby stat. The only things that constantly disappointed me were:
1) How her parents treated her hurt me so much. They made me so freaking angry too and they don't really deserve her. I hope she makes them grovel.
2) The way Zeke treated her throughout the book and then was magically absolved from everything the moment he said I love you. Stupid pregnancy hormones clouded Frankie's judgement.
In the end, it was an okay sequel. I have no idea if there is going to be another book in this series and if there is.. I might be a little hesitant to dive into it.
March 21, 2020
⭐⭐⭐1/2
✅ Great writing
✅ Angst
✅ Lots of drama
✅ Strong heroine
✅ Lovable secondary characters
Catch Twenty Two is book two in the Westover Prep series and follows the story of Frankie and Zeke who were secondary characters in One Eighty.
This is a tough one. I really wanted to love it because book one was amazing but I just couldn't 😔 The writing is once again fantastic with well developed characters and I was drawn into their story instantly but I just wasn't loving it.
The thing that makes bully romance work for me is that the bully is somehow appealing and has redeeming qualities but I just could not get on board with Zeke. He was a manipulative jerk for 80% of the book and I just found nothing likable about him at all.
I know Zeke was having a hard time and in typical teenage fashion was taking all of his anger out on Frankie. But my goodness, I just wanted to slap him upside the head for most of the book, he was so incredibly frustrating. I do love Frankie, she is pretty amazing. She is beautiful and kind and doesn't deserve any of the crap Zeke puts her through.
Looking at other reviews I am definitely in the minority on this one so definitely check it out if this trope is your thing 👍
✅ Great writing
✅ Angst
✅ Lots of drama
✅ Strong heroine
✅ Lovable secondary characters
Catch Twenty Two is book two in the Westover Prep series and follows the story of Frankie and Zeke who were secondary characters in One Eighty.
This is a tough one. I really wanted to love it because book one was amazing but I just couldn't 😔 The writing is once again fantastic with well developed characters and I was drawn into their story instantly but I just wasn't loving it.
The thing that makes bully romance work for me is that the bully is somehow appealing and has redeeming qualities but I just could not get on board with Zeke. He was a manipulative jerk for 80% of the book and I just found nothing likable about him at all.
I know Zeke was having a hard time and in typical teenage fashion was taking all of his anger out on Frankie. But my goodness, I just wanted to slap him upside the head for most of the book, he was so incredibly frustrating. I do love Frankie, she is pretty amazing. She is beautiful and kind and doesn't deserve any of the crap Zeke puts her through.
Looking at other reviews I am definitely in the minority on this one so definitely check it out if this trope is your thing 👍
February 25, 2022
Un disgusto total!
•Mi opinión puede contener Spoilers
•Esta destinada a ser un descargo personal no para que alguien más lea pero si lo haces y te ofende, me disculpo porque sé lo que es que te guste un libro y otros lo critiquen
Catch Twenty Two de Marie James serie Westover Prep libro 2
Argumento:
No puede soportar nada de ella, pero no puede quitarle las manos de encima.
Frankie
Yo no lo estaba buscando.
Él me encontró.
Con su sonrisa sexy y su cuerpo irresistible.
No quería tener nada que ver con alguien como él.
Crítico y melancólico.
Tan lleno de sí mismo.
Pero ahora, estoy atascada haciendo el tonto.
Enamorándome de él.
Y perdiéndolo todo.
Solo por una noche.
ZEKE
Estirada, rica, con derecho.
El tipo de chica que consigue lo que quiere.
Cuando lo quiere.
Y no quiero tener nada que ver con ella.
Sin embargo, no puedo mantenerme alejado.
Me atrae su amabilidad y compasión.
Su belleza.
Ella me sostiene cuando el dolor no desaparece.
Y ahora, si puedo evitarlo, voy a aferrarme a ella...
Siempre.
Mí humilde opinión:
El libro anterior de la serie estuvo ok y, en contra de todos mis instintos que me decían que lo deje ahí, fui a leer el siguiente libro.
Debí haberle hecho caso a mis instintos.
Catch Twenty Two es el segundo libro de la serie Westover Prep con un tema de enemigos a amantes, que sigue las historias de chicas de secundaria que se terminan enamorando de sus bullys.
Es un romance de matón de secundaria, voy con eso claro en mente al comenzar mí lectura, pero este no es un romance de matón que me gustara, el enfoque de la autora menos. Hay tantas cosas sucediendo que están tan mal.
Si bien la historia de Piper y Dalton me costó un poco por algunas situaciones, la historia de Frankie y Zeke fue peor aún para mí de leer.
No voy a desgranar el libro porque la verdad es un milagro que lo haya terminado y lo que menos quiero es esplayarme con una historia que no disfruté.
Mí principal problema... El héroe no se ganó el perdón, no sé si era posible, yo no lo hubiera perdonado, al menos no en tan corto tiempo. Tampoco hace algo significativo para convencerme de que merece redención.
Zeke era infantil, cobarde y un imbécil de primera. A diferencia de Dalton que por la amnesia no recuerda lo horrible que fue con Piper, Zeke sabe el daño que hace a Frankie y lo sigue haciendo una y otra vez, a pesar de que piensa que lo que hace está mal y se dice a sí mismo que la quiere.
Este chico pasa de malo a bueno hasta casi el final de libro. Y esas pocas páginas siendo el chico bueno no sabía si tomarlas como un alivio o una broma.
No tenía una razón importante para ser un completo HDP con Frankie.
Esto era lo peor, hablaba de un chico a quien sus padres enseñaron como tratar una dama Cómo podía él tomar de punto a alguien a quien no conoce y nunca le hizo nada? La excusa para insultarla y jugar con ella era que su familia estaba en una mala situación económica, perdieron su rancho y tierras, esto significa que eventualmente Zeke deberá dejar la escuela, el fútbol y todo lo que soñó para trabajar con su padre de sol a sol, siente que ya no tiene control de su vida y es peor cuando escucha hablar sobre lo buena que es Frankie, sus padres creen que será perfecta para él y cuando la conoce no esperó que ella le gustara, no tener control de su deseo lo enfurece.
Qué tan jodido era este chico? Se pone peor y peor... Está el condón que olvidó ponerse en un apuro por tener sexo, la idiotez al decir que no se puede quedar embarazada la primera vez, preguntarle si el bebé es de él cuando lo descubre, no defenderla y huir cuando la insultan en la escuela por estar embarazada... yo tenía ganas de agarrar a Frankie y alejarla de ese idiota lo más lejos posible. Me daba pena por ella. Admiré su compasión por un lado pero por otro me desilusionó porque nunca se enfrentó con fuerza a Zeke. Debió haberlo hecho arrastrar más por su horrible maltrato porque la verdad después de todo lo que le hizo no se merecía ser perdonado de la nada.
Sobre el libro... es frustrante, predecible y repetitivo, los protagonistas me enojaron, no hay crecimiento en ellos que me dejara contenta, hay temas importantes que no resuelven y el final no podía ser más abrupto.
April 10, 2020
Too much bully for me, I'm afraid
An angsty and emotional YA bully romance with a very mature feel, this is the second book in the Westover Prep series, a story full of push and pull and sizzling chemistry that will whip your feelings all over the place.
This book follows on from One-Eighty, and is the story of Piper’s best friend, Frankie. This book can be read as a standalone, but beware it has spoilers for the first book of the series. Frankie and Zeke’s story was hinted at in the last book through conversations between the two girls, and now we get the full story, taking us back to the beginning of summer break where Frankie and Zeke meet, so we get to see their tumultuous and anxiety-inducing relationship in all its glory.
When her mostly-absentee parents decide to take a trip, 17-year-old Frankie is sent to Utah to spend the summer on her grandmother’s ranch. It’s not where she wants to be, but things look a little bit more exciting when she lays eyes on gorgeous ranch hand, Zeke. It’s clear that her grandmother and his parents are keen to hook the two teenagers up, and while Zeke may play the part of an eager and flirtatious guy in front of everybody, alone with Frankie he’s an absolute douche – rude and cruel.
Zeke wants nothing to do with his boss’ granddaughter when she arrives on the ranch. Well, he does… but he also doesn’t. He wants her, but he doesn’t want to want her, because reasons. He hated her before she even set foot on the ranch, so his attraction to her makes him even more angry. But teenage hormones run strong, and in between his snark and animosity, there are moments of sweetness and they develop a connection that sweeps them both up in its intensity.
This is one hell of an angsty read that made me rage more than once, and though there are scenes of sweet romance and surprisingly mature steamy scenes, Zeke’s nastiness kind of overwhelmed the romance for me. He was such a contrast! He was awful, then sweet, then awful, then sweet, then horribly, unforgivably awful, and sweet again… repeat and repeat. There is so much back and forth, and of course I knew going in that this was a ‘bully romance’ book, but personally I prefer the bully to be awful and then have a change of heart and fix things (such as in the first book), not this constant hot and cold routine. I was so disappointed in him so many times, and while I get that he went through a lot and that he had his reasons for behaving like he did, I truly think he crossed the line more than once in this book. I wouldn’t have been able to forgive him, that’s for sure!
I really liked Frankie as a character. She’s young but she’s smart, and though she’s being treated badly and has the potential to become a bit of a doormat, it never feels like that. She’s a strong girl navigating her first serious crush that turns out to be pretty toxic, and I think she handles it really well.
Of course there is the moment when it all turns around, but it came so late in the book, was so sudden, and we didn’t actually get to see a lot of the resolution, we were just told that things were better. It wasn’t enough, and though I was glad that they found their HEA, everything that came before it left such a bad taste in my mouth, I couldn’t buy into the happy as much as I wanted.
And then it just ends! There is a HEA, but it’s very abrupt with not a whole lot of closure and a bizarre hint at what will likely be the next book in the series.
So yeah, I struggled a bit with this one, but I think it’s more to do with the genre than anything. I loved James’ writing, I thought she told the story really well, and I could feel the emotion there, I’m clearly just not a fan of this kind of story and this level of angst.
2.5 stars. It was just ok for me.
An Advanced Review Copy was generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
An angsty and emotional YA bully romance with a very mature feel, this is the second book in the Westover Prep series, a story full of push and pull and sizzling chemistry that will whip your feelings all over the place.
This book follows on from One-Eighty, and is the story of Piper’s best friend, Frankie. This book can be read as a standalone, but beware it has spoilers for the first book of the series. Frankie and Zeke’s story was hinted at in the last book through conversations between the two girls, and now we get the full story, taking us back to the beginning of summer break where Frankie and Zeke meet, so we get to see their tumultuous and anxiety-inducing relationship in all its glory.
When her mostly-absentee parents decide to take a trip, 17-year-old Frankie is sent to Utah to spend the summer on her grandmother’s ranch. It’s not where she wants to be, but things look a little bit more exciting when she lays eyes on gorgeous ranch hand, Zeke. It’s clear that her grandmother and his parents are keen to hook the two teenagers up, and while Zeke may play the part of an eager and flirtatious guy in front of everybody, alone with Frankie he’s an absolute douche – rude and cruel.
Zeke wants nothing to do with his boss’ granddaughter when she arrives on the ranch. Well, he does… but he also doesn’t. He wants her, but he doesn’t want to want her, because reasons. He hated her before she even set foot on the ranch, so his attraction to her makes him even more angry. But teenage hormones run strong, and in between his snark and animosity, there are moments of sweetness and they develop a connection that sweeps them both up in its intensity.
This is one hell of an angsty read that made me rage more than once, and though there are scenes of sweet romance and surprisingly mature steamy scenes, Zeke’s nastiness kind of overwhelmed the romance for me. He was such a contrast! He was awful, then sweet, then awful, then sweet, then horribly, unforgivably awful, and sweet again… repeat and repeat. There is so much back and forth, and of course I knew going in that this was a ‘bully romance’ book, but personally I prefer the bully to be awful and then have a change of heart and fix things (such as in the first book), not this constant hot and cold routine. I was so disappointed in him so many times, and while I get that he went through a lot and that he had his reasons for behaving like he did, I truly think he crossed the line more than once in this book. I wouldn’t have been able to forgive him, that’s for sure!
I really liked Frankie as a character. She’s young but she’s smart, and though she’s being treated badly and has the potential to become a bit of a doormat, it never feels like that. She’s a strong girl navigating her first serious crush that turns out to be pretty toxic, and I think she handles it really well.
Of course there is the moment when it all turns around, but it came so late in the book, was so sudden, and we didn’t actually get to see a lot of the resolution, we were just told that things were better. It wasn’t enough, and though I was glad that they found their HEA, everything that came before it left such a bad taste in my mouth, I couldn’t buy into the happy as much as I wanted.
And then it just ends! There is a HEA, but it’s very abrupt with not a whole lot of closure and a bizarre hint at what will likely be the next book in the series.
So yeah, I struggled a bit with this one, but I think it’s more to do with the genre than anything. I loved James’ writing, I thought she told the story really well, and I could feel the emotion there, I’m clearly just not a fan of this kind of story and this level of angst.
2.5 stars. It was just ok for me.
An Advanced Review Copy was generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
April 6, 2020
In the first book of this series, we met Piper and her bully Dalton. When they had an accident, Dalton lost his memories and “forgot” he was a bully. Then he proceeded to court Piper until they were a couple. Apparently, bullies are now secretly in love with their victim.
While all this was happening, Piper’s best friend Frankie was sent by her parents to spend the summer with her maternal grandmother Nan at her ranch in Utah. Her parents had plans for the summer that didn’t include her. When she arrives, she gets the happy news that her grandmother has a boyfriend candidate ready for her. And even his parents are behind the relation because marriage to her would improve their dire financial status (as in, broke). Naturally, Piper is not on board with the situation until she sees Zeke:
“Dalton has nothing on the dark-haired, boot-wearing stranger climbing out of the truck. Even from fifty yards away, his strong jaw and wide shoulders are the stuff fantasies are made of. Maybe my forced visit to Utah won’t be so bad.”
But when she goes to greet her new “beau”, he snarls what will become a new bully relation:
“Silly little girl,” he rasps in my ear. “Did you really think I’d kiss you? I’d rather piss on an electric fence.”
And we get another delightful tale of a guy who behaves like a jerk and a girl who lets him step all over her. There are instances where she will stand up to him, but most of the time she cowers, cringes, flinches or hides away from the scorn.
This is the theme for their summer adventure, and when school starts, he moves to Westover with his mother, and continues the abuse. By this time, I was fed up and tired of the abuse. Several incidents happen where Frankie is embarrassed by the bully squad and Zeke, who has started to change his feelings toward Frankie, behaves like a sniveling coward and slithers away, leaving her to face the bullies on her own. Luckily, she has Piper and Dalton on her side and they never leave her side and shield her from the worst of the abuse.
I understand Zeke had his reasons for being angry at the world, feeling like he has no chance at improving his life and accomplishing his goals, but hitting on an innocent girl who moreover has a beautiful soul and heartwarm feelings, he deserves to be kneed in the nuts.
“I no longer had control of my destiny. My dreams, my goals, the things I wanted to do in life no longer mattered. You became the focus of that anger. You were a tangible thing for me to fight against, the only way I could get some level of control back in my life.
I don’t mind bully stories when the heroine gives as good as she gets, or when she is able to take vengeance on her mistreatment. In this case, Frankie took whatever Zeke handed her, good or bad. Her defenses were to hide or lay low, either away from home or behind her friends. I didn’t have a lot of enjoyment from this book, because when they finally had their sexy times, I was busy plotting Zeke’s demise 😂.
Reading this book was entertaining but bad for my blood pressure. The writing is brilliant, the pace great but the characters, especially the male ones, need to grow a pair.
While all this was happening, Piper’s best friend Frankie was sent by her parents to spend the summer with her maternal grandmother Nan at her ranch in Utah. Her parents had plans for the summer that didn’t include her. When she arrives, she gets the happy news that her grandmother has a boyfriend candidate ready for her. And even his parents are behind the relation because marriage to her would improve their dire financial status (as in, broke). Naturally, Piper is not on board with the situation until she sees Zeke:
“Dalton has nothing on the dark-haired, boot-wearing stranger climbing out of the truck. Even from fifty yards away, his strong jaw and wide shoulders are the stuff fantasies are made of. Maybe my forced visit to Utah won’t be so bad.”
But when she goes to greet her new “beau”, he snarls what will become a new bully relation:
“Silly little girl,” he rasps in my ear. “Did you really think I’d kiss you? I’d rather piss on an electric fence.”
And we get another delightful tale of a guy who behaves like a jerk and a girl who lets him step all over her. There are instances where she will stand up to him, but most of the time she cowers, cringes, flinches or hides away from the scorn.
This is the theme for their summer adventure, and when school starts, he moves to Westover with his mother, and continues the abuse. By this time, I was fed up and tired of the abuse. Several incidents happen where Frankie is embarrassed by the bully squad and Zeke, who has started to change his feelings toward Frankie, behaves like a sniveling coward and slithers away, leaving her to face the bullies on her own. Luckily, she has Piper and Dalton on her side and they never leave her side and shield her from the worst of the abuse.
I understand Zeke had his reasons for being angry at the world, feeling like he has no chance at improving his life and accomplishing his goals, but hitting on an innocent girl who moreover has a beautiful soul and heartwarm feelings, he deserves to be kneed in the nuts.
“I no longer had control of my destiny. My dreams, my goals, the things I wanted to do in life no longer mattered. You became the focus of that anger. You were a tangible thing for me to fight against, the only way I could get some level of control back in my life.
I don’t mind bully stories when the heroine gives as good as she gets, or when she is able to take vengeance on her mistreatment. In this case, Frankie took whatever Zeke handed her, good or bad. Her defenses were to hide or lay low, either away from home or behind her friends. I didn’t have a lot of enjoyment from this book, because when they finally had their sexy times, I was busy plotting Zeke’s demise 😂.
Reading this book was entertaining but bad for my blood pressure. The writing is brilliant, the pace great but the characters, especially the male ones, need to grow a pair.
March 23, 2020
This story was Amazing!
So much emotion. So much tension. Just so much scorching, rapid page turning story telling.
Zeke was pretty much awful. He was a perfectly written alpha-hole. He was just the right blend of jerk and glimpses of tenderness to make me hate him while falling in love with him right along with Frankie. So many times I found myself shaking my head at his words and actions. But I couldn't stop reading.
Frankie was kind and vulnerable and sometimes I just wished I could hold her and tell her that everything will be ok. I hate that her parents were the way they were but there were at least a few bright spots for her in her best friend, her grandmother and eventually Zeke's mother too. I was happy that she had those moments of fire in her attitude and actions so that she didn't have that doormat vibe. She was just a really well developed character.
If I didn't make it obvious enough, I loved this book. I loved it so very much and I look forward to more from this world and these characters.
March 23, 2020
Frankie has been dumped off on her grandma's ranch for the summer and she's upset about it because she's just been informed of her best friend's accident and she wants to go back to see her. No dice, though, because her parents are the least attentive to her needs parents, ever. But at least if she's stuck on the ranch for the summer, the new guy is hot and might make for a good distraction. Except not because Zeke may be polite in front of her grandma and his father, but behind their backs he's a mean ass bully to her for no reason that she can see.
Frankie hates that she's so attracted to the boy who torments her for no reason. And Zeke feels the same way. Even he knows the way he treats her is wrong, but his world is out of control and she's a convenient target for his rage. Helping fuel his rage is his insane attraction to the sweet girl he keeps bullying. It's a never ending cycle of rage and attraction that neither can seem to stop. But when something unforeseen happens, will it bring them together, or be the thing that finally causes Frankie to kick Zeke out of her life for good?
This is another great bully romance from Marie James. I absolutely adored Frankie - she's sweet and compassionate and did not in any way deserve the way Zeke treated her. He's such a typical teenager who lashes out at someone unsuspecting and undeserving. I honestly didn't like him, even when he redeemed himself in Frankie's eyes. I get why he was so broken, but Frankie was far too sweet to deserve his bs, and I really wish she had dumped him and never took him back. Alas, the heart wants what the heart wants...still, aside from Zeke's awful behavior and character, I liked Catch Twenty Two. It's emotionally fraught and moves the story of Westover Prep even further forward. Can't wait for the next installment.
ARC via Wildfire Marketing Solutions for an honest review.
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March 31, 2020
“And as I lie there, aching from his intrusion, I known I just willingly handed over another first to a boy who will hate me once again when the sun rises.”
Second book in the Westover Prep series, we will follow the story of Frankie, Piper's friend, the protagonist of the first book.
Spending the summer at her grandmother's ranch, Frankie is sure of some important factors as soon as she arrives: her parents couldn't wait to get rid of her, after all they never cared, she is definitely at the end of the world, if the mountains, pastures and animals are a clue, and she definitely won't be able to start a new life this summer, since the hot guy who she just spotted turned out to be an asshole. For sure, bullying will follow her to the end of the world.
Zeke is seeing the chances of a better future disappear before his eyes. With the loss of his family's ranch, they moved, live on the foreman’s house in another person land and on top of that he needs to help his father who no longer has the same strength. Football, which would be his chance to get to college, will probably be taken from him too, and with that, his future will be like his father's, killing himself by working on a farm.
Frankie reminds him of everything he is giving up, after all she is too beautiful, too happy and must have a comfortable life in the big city. So he decides to make her life hell.
But appearances can be deceiving and perhaps the person you think is most different from you is the one who shares the same experiences and pains.
In a love-hate relationship, where in a moment he has normal attitudes and in an instant he becomes a mean asshole, Frankie will live a déjà vu of her daily life in the halls of the school, just changing the tormentor.
Fights, harsh words, hurt and anger will mix in this tumultuous relationship, until a tragedy happens. And with that, Zeke's heart, which will be broken, will shatter Frankie's heart out of sheer inability to deal with feelings.
The book can be divided into two parts, with almost half the plot taking place at the ranch and after a twist, the scenario changes, and the protagonists meet each other again in the city and at the school that gives name to the series.
The final part presents another surprise, which will change the lives of these two and define the relationship between them once and for all.
Frankie was strong throughout the plot, a well-written character, who may even bend, but who will never fall.
Zeke sparked a love-hate relationship throughout my reading. I understand his point of view, his pain, but I'm sorry, he's a complete asshole. There is no way to provide some redeem.
A well-written book, with a complicated theme, full of anguish and good characters.
*ARC provided in exchange for an honest Review *
https://avidezliteraria.wordpress.com/
Second book in the Westover Prep series, we will follow the story of Frankie, Piper's friend, the protagonist of the first book.
Spending the summer at her grandmother's ranch, Frankie is sure of some important factors as soon as she arrives: her parents couldn't wait to get rid of her, after all they never cared, she is definitely at the end of the world, if the mountains, pastures and animals are a clue, and she definitely won't be able to start a new life this summer, since the hot guy who she just spotted turned out to be an asshole. For sure, bullying will follow her to the end of the world.
Zeke is seeing the chances of a better future disappear before his eyes. With the loss of his family's ranch, they moved, live on the foreman’s house in another person land and on top of that he needs to help his father who no longer has the same strength. Football, which would be his chance to get to college, will probably be taken from him too, and with that, his future will be like his father's, killing himself by working on a farm.
Frankie reminds him of everything he is giving up, after all she is too beautiful, too happy and must have a comfortable life in the big city. So he decides to make her life hell.
But appearances can be deceiving and perhaps the person you think is most different from you is the one who shares the same experiences and pains.
In a love-hate relationship, where in a moment he has normal attitudes and in an instant he becomes a mean asshole, Frankie will live a déjà vu of her daily life in the halls of the school, just changing the tormentor.
Fights, harsh words, hurt and anger will mix in this tumultuous relationship, until a tragedy happens. And with that, Zeke's heart, which will be broken, will shatter Frankie's heart out of sheer inability to deal with feelings.
The book can be divided into two parts, with almost half the plot taking place at the ranch and after a twist, the scenario changes, and the protagonists meet each other again in the city and at the school that gives name to the series.
The final part presents another surprise, which will change the lives of these two and define the relationship between them once and for all.
Frankie was strong throughout the plot, a well-written character, who may even bend, but who will never fall.
Zeke sparked a love-hate relationship throughout my reading. I understand his point of view, his pain, but I'm sorry, he's a complete asshole. There is no way to provide some redeem.
A well-written book, with a complicated theme, full of anguish and good characters.
*ARC provided in exchange for an honest Review *
https://avidezliteraria.wordpress.com/
March 21, 2020
I don't even know how to express how much I loved this book. This is Book #2 in the Westover Prep Series. I thought that the first book was amazing, but this book surpassed my expectations. It is an epic and emotional tale of young love.
This story is about navigating teenage years, teenage love, relationships with parents as well as peers, hard knock life experiences, second chances, and a little bullying. There was such a roller coaster ride of emotions. This plot was extremely well-written. Some of the experiences these young people experienced were gut-wrenching, painful, and heartbreaking. My heart felt like it cracked in my chest at times. I cried more than once while reading. Ezekiel "Zeke" Benson was broken and weary, trying to fight for control in some aspect of his life. Nothing in his life was going as he imagined. This made him angry. I loved and hated Zeke. Piper was broken too but in a different way. Her parents were never home and basically ignored her existence. She was bullied mercilessly at school and only had one friend. When she goes away for the summer, at the insistence of her parents, to visit her Nan, she meets the gorgeous boy, Ezekiel who works at her Nan's ranch with his father. She becomes the target of his ire without having to try. He hates her at first sight. She tries her hardest to be kind but it doesn't help and he constantly hurts her feelings and pushes her away with his hateful words and sharp tongue. Zeke hated her before she even got there. He knows that isn't fair but he figures life isn't fair. The push and pull between Zeke and Piper was painful at times. I wanted to throat punch Zeke at times but hug and comfort him at other times. I felt so bad for Piper. She tried but sometimes it just isn't enough. These characters are so real, raw, and relatable. The pain and passion were palpable from both characters. Their chemistry sizzled but would it be enough?
This was an emotional and epic journey of love and the power of forgiveness. The emotions bled off the page and into my heart. It was unputdownable! The only problem I had was that it came to an end. I need more! I wasn't ready for it to be over. I was completed invested in these characters and their journies. I highly recommend reading it. It is a complete standalone with a HEA. You do not have to read Book #1 in order to understand what is going on here but I highly recommend reading the first book as well. You won't be sorry! They are both captivating and entertaining reads that have fast become an addiction!
****ARC generously provided in exchange for an honest review.****
This story is about navigating teenage years, teenage love, relationships with parents as well as peers, hard knock life experiences, second chances, and a little bullying. There was such a roller coaster ride of emotions. This plot was extremely well-written. Some of the experiences these young people experienced were gut-wrenching, painful, and heartbreaking. My heart felt like it cracked in my chest at times. I cried more than once while reading. Ezekiel "Zeke" Benson was broken and weary, trying to fight for control in some aspect of his life. Nothing in his life was going as he imagined. This made him angry. I loved and hated Zeke. Piper was broken too but in a different way. Her parents were never home and basically ignored her existence. She was bullied mercilessly at school and only had one friend. When she goes away for the summer, at the insistence of her parents, to visit her Nan, she meets the gorgeous boy, Ezekiel who works at her Nan's ranch with his father. She becomes the target of his ire without having to try. He hates her at first sight. She tries her hardest to be kind but it doesn't help and he constantly hurts her feelings and pushes her away with his hateful words and sharp tongue. Zeke hated her before she even got there. He knows that isn't fair but he figures life isn't fair. The push and pull between Zeke and Piper was painful at times. I wanted to throat punch Zeke at times but hug and comfort him at other times. I felt so bad for Piper. She tried but sometimes it just isn't enough. These characters are so real, raw, and relatable. The pain and passion were palpable from both characters. Their chemistry sizzled but would it be enough?
This was an emotional and epic journey of love and the power of forgiveness. The emotions bled off the page and into my heart. It was unputdownable! The only problem I had was that it came to an end. I need more! I wasn't ready for it to be over. I was completed invested in these characters and their journies. I highly recommend reading it. It is a complete standalone with a HEA. You do not have to read Book #1 in order to understand what is going on here but I highly recommend reading the first book as well. You won't be sorry! They are both captivating and entertaining reads that have fast become an addiction!
****ARC generously provided in exchange for an honest review.****
April 1, 2020
Oh my! What a fab read!
“I hated the girl long before I met her. She really never stood a chance.”
Ezekiel AKA Zeke Benson can’t wait to leave the sleepy town where he grew up. There’s no way that he wants to be stuck there, living the life that his parents seem to want him to have, and that includes being pushed towards their employer’s grand-daughter, even though she’s beautiful and not all what he expected from a city girl.
“No one has ever looked at me the way he’s looking at me now, and when his eyes focus on my lips, they tingle, forcing me to roll them between my teeth.”
Frances AKA Frankie Young is staying on her grandma’s ranch for the summer. The one person she could be friends with seems to take an instant dislike to her. The guy is a gorgeous but confusing jerk. He’s seems happy to play nice in front of everybody but the minute he has her alone, he’s just the meanest a-hole to her. However, there’s no denying the chemistry between them. And, what’s worse, are the quiet moments where he genuinely seems to need her, but every time she lets her guard down, he hurts her. When summer’s over and she escapes him back home, he’s the last person she expects to see when school starts again.
“The pretending at the dinner table isn’t the hardship. It’s sneering at her while we’re alone instead of holding her against my chest and breathing her scent in that’s the struggle.”
Oh, wow! Poor Frankie! She honestly didn’t know if she was coming or going. I felt so bad for her and, yet, she couldn’t control her soft heart and her need to be loved and accepted for who she was. There’s no disputing that Zeke was grossly unfair toward her. He’s a bully you desperately want to hate but can’t because you know his thoughts and therefore he also brings out your sympathy and empathy. He had such internal battles; desperate to hang on to his antipathy and resentment, even though he knew she didn’t deserve it, and then dealing with his guilt and regret. His struggles were real. He was so mentally and emotionally messed up! However, I think he totally redeemed himself towards the end of the book when his actions spoke much, much louder than his words. A fab, angsty, compelling read! Can’t wait for the next one!
“I hated the girl long before I met her. She really never stood a chance.”
Ezekiel AKA Zeke Benson can’t wait to leave the sleepy town where he grew up. There’s no way that he wants to be stuck there, living the life that his parents seem to want him to have, and that includes being pushed towards their employer’s grand-daughter, even though she’s beautiful and not all what he expected from a city girl.
“No one has ever looked at me the way he’s looking at me now, and when his eyes focus on my lips, they tingle, forcing me to roll them between my teeth.”
Frances AKA Frankie Young is staying on her grandma’s ranch for the summer. The one person she could be friends with seems to take an instant dislike to her. The guy is a gorgeous but confusing jerk. He’s seems happy to play nice in front of everybody but the minute he has her alone, he’s just the meanest a-hole to her. However, there’s no denying the chemistry between them. And, what’s worse, are the quiet moments where he genuinely seems to need her, but every time she lets her guard down, he hurts her. When summer’s over and she escapes him back home, he’s the last person she expects to see when school starts again.
“The pretending at the dinner table isn’t the hardship. It’s sneering at her while we’re alone instead of holding her against my chest and breathing her scent in that’s the struggle.”
Oh, wow! Poor Frankie! She honestly didn’t know if she was coming or going. I felt so bad for her and, yet, she couldn’t control her soft heart and her need to be loved and accepted for who she was. There’s no disputing that Zeke was grossly unfair toward her. He’s a bully you desperately want to hate but can’t because you know his thoughts and therefore he also brings out your sympathy and empathy. He had such internal battles; desperate to hang on to his antipathy and resentment, even though he knew she didn’t deserve it, and then dealing with his guilt and regret. His struggles were real. He was so mentally and emotionally messed up! However, I think he totally redeemed himself towards the end of the book when his actions spoke much, much louder than his words. A fab, angsty, compelling read! Can’t wait for the next one!
March 22, 2020
Catch Twenty-Two is my second book by this author and I am impressed with her impeccable writing skills and her ability to weave a story that draws the reader in.
I adored Frankie in that she is a strong heroine full of compassion, kindness and resilience. In spending the summer on her nan’s ranch, one would think this change of scenery would provide respite from the bullying that she endures at her school. However, things don't exactly turn out that way. Her tender heart gets battered by a boy and yet, she cannot help but be drawn towards him.
Zeke is a bit of a broken hero and Frankie is caught in his orbit. He is searching for a sense of control as he grapples with various aspects of his life and unfortunately, that illusion of control takes the form of misguided anger towards Frankie. While my heart truly felt for him, at times, I wanted to shake him for the hot and cold behaviors he unleashed on Frankie. Nonetheless, I found myself loving him and I think the author did an excellent job portraying his struggles and developing his character.
Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed this book which flowed well, had an interesting storyline, and had good character development. This book is a standalone novel in the Westover Prep series with Frankie’s and Zeke’s story being uniquely different from the previous book. I liked the background stories of the characters, the bully element, and catching glimpses of Dalton and Piper. My only complaint is that I would have loved an epilogue. I love this entire series so far and I cannot wait to see what this author writes next!
I read an early complimentary version of this novel.
I adored Frankie in that she is a strong heroine full of compassion, kindness and resilience. In spending the summer on her nan’s ranch, one would think this change of scenery would provide respite from the bullying that she endures at her school. However, things don't exactly turn out that way. Her tender heart gets battered by a boy and yet, she cannot help but be drawn towards him.
Zeke is a bit of a broken hero and Frankie is caught in his orbit. He is searching for a sense of control as he grapples with various aspects of his life and unfortunately, that illusion of control takes the form of misguided anger towards Frankie. While my heart truly felt for him, at times, I wanted to shake him for the hot and cold behaviors he unleashed on Frankie. Nonetheless, I found myself loving him and I think the author did an excellent job portraying his struggles and developing his character.
Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed this book which flowed well, had an interesting storyline, and had good character development. This book is a standalone novel in the Westover Prep series with Frankie’s and Zeke’s story being uniquely different from the previous book. I liked the background stories of the characters, the bully element, and catching glimpses of Dalton and Piper. My only complaint is that I would have loved an epilogue. I love this entire series so far and I cannot wait to see what this author writes next!
I read an early complimentary version of this novel.
March 23, 2020
Catch Twenty-Two is the second book in the Westover Prep series, but it is a standalone. But if you read One-Eighty, this is Frankie's story and starts out during the same summer that Piper and Dalton fell in love. Frankie is sent to Utah to live on her grandmother's ranch for the summer, and that's where she meets broody, handsome Zeke.
I love the catch twenty-two that Zeke finds himself in, and the whole reason why he hates Frankie before she even gets to the ranch. His family is financially hanging on by a thread, and everything he knows about being a 17 year old has drastically changed. Zeke is so messed up in the head, and the fact that both his parents and Frakie's grandmother think that she'd be a perfect match for him leaves him hating her before he get to know her. But the more Zeke gets to know her, the more he finds that she is perfect for him. But she represents everything that is wrong with his life... and around and around goes the catch twenty-two that our hero has found himself in.
After seeing Zeke show up at Westover Prep at the end of One-Eighty, I was wondering how that was going to translate into Frankie's book. And it does, so, so well. It just ramps up the angst between these two that much more as they refuse to talk to one another, but can't seem to help the attraction between them. Once Zeke finally gets it together, he goes big to show Frankie that he is someone she can trust. From there, their relationship grows wonderfully and they both find in each other hope, a home and a future. Plus, I got to catch up with Piper and Dalton!
I received an advanced copy and voluntarily left a review.
I love the catch twenty-two that Zeke finds himself in, and the whole reason why he hates Frankie before she even gets to the ranch. His family is financially hanging on by a thread, and everything he knows about being a 17 year old has drastically changed. Zeke is so messed up in the head, and the fact that both his parents and Frakie's grandmother think that she'd be a perfect match for him leaves him hating her before he get to know her. But the more Zeke gets to know her, the more he finds that she is perfect for him. But she represents everything that is wrong with his life... and around and around goes the catch twenty-two that our hero has found himself in.
After seeing Zeke show up at Westover Prep at the end of One-Eighty, I was wondering how that was going to translate into Frankie's book. And it does, so, so well. It just ramps up the angst between these two that much more as they refuse to talk to one another, but can't seem to help the attraction between them. Once Zeke finally gets it together, he goes big to show Frankie that he is someone she can trust. From there, their relationship grows wonderfully and they both find in each other hope, a home and a future. Plus, I got to catch up with Piper and Dalton!
I received an advanced copy and voluntarily left a review.
March 29, 2020
Frankie is shipped off to Utah to spend the summer with her Nan at her ranch so her parents can go on a long vacation. After arriving she see Zeke - the most gorgeous man she has ever seen - working at her Nan's ranch. She is excited and nervous for him to come to dinner with her and Nan. Zeke sees Frankie and things she absolutely the most beautiful girl he has ever seen. But with his fate decided, everyone pushing him to date Frankie and her leaving at the end of summer he has nothing but resentment towards her. So he plays nice in front of Nan but when Nan isn't around - all bets are off.
My heart absolutely broke for Zeke. That poor boy had too much on his shoulders to bear and he took it all out on Frankie even though he hated that he was doing that. He knew it was wrong but couldn't bring himself to stop and it was just one more thing that was eating at him. And poor Frankie, she was no stranger to bullying but this seemed to hurt worse because she actually liked Zeke and was stuck with him for the summer. And holy plot twist - didn't see that one coming but I kind of loved it. I wanted to smack Zeke so hard so he would stop with the antics and just be with the girl he so clearly wanted. And when he finally does my heart melted. I was glad that Frankie didn't just roll over and welcome him with open arms. She made him prove himself. Also, loved that got to see glimpses of how ooey gooey in love Piper and Dalton are. I absolutely adored this book and highly recommend it.
My heart absolutely broke for Zeke. That poor boy had too much on his shoulders to bear and he took it all out on Frankie even though he hated that he was doing that. He knew it was wrong but couldn't bring himself to stop and it was just one more thing that was eating at him. And poor Frankie, she was no stranger to bullying but this seemed to hurt worse because she actually liked Zeke and was stuck with him for the summer. And holy plot twist - didn't see that one coming but I kind of loved it. I wanted to smack Zeke so hard so he would stop with the antics and just be with the girl he so clearly wanted. And when he finally does my heart melted. I was glad that Frankie didn't just roll over and welcome him with open arms. She made him prove himself. Also, loved that got to see glimpses of how ooey gooey in love Piper and Dalton are. I absolutely adored this book and highly recommend it.
March 16, 2020
I was so happy to see that Frankie got her own story. She was a secondary character in One-Eighty (Westover Prep #1) but I still loved her immediately. In Catch Twenty-Two we finally get to learn what happened over the summer vacation while she was at her grandmother's house in Utah. This book did not turn out at all like I expected it to but I was still very happy with the results. The timeline overlap between this book and book 1 was pretty significant, I thought it would start where book 1 ended. I actually liked that it didn't. We really got a lot of details about Frankie and Zeke that were helpful, plus the dual POV was great. I really liked this story and look forward to book 3 in the series!
August 8, 2022
I enjoyed this second instalment, but I have to say I preferred ‘One Eighty’
There’s nothing not to enjoy about Catch Twenty Two, it’s a very angsty, push and pull romance and I just felt at times that part went on for too long.
I also loved Frankie in One Eighty, she came across as so strong and was an amazing friend. In this one, I felt she was more weak and lost some of her spark from the glimpses we got of her in the first book.
HOWEVER….
I’m a sucker for an enemies-to-lovers/bully romance and Frankie and Zeke certainly fit that bill. I didn’t like the way Zeke treated Frankie for a lot of the book (as expected - it’s a bully book 💁♀️) but I loved how he treated her in the moments he let his guard down. You know from the chapters from Zeke’s point of view that he has feelings for Frankie the whole time, but he doesn’t like that they’ve basically been pushed together and sets out to rebel.
I did see the twist in the story coming, the hints were there very early on, but it still adds something to their love story.
I loved seeing more from Piper and Dalton and the part they had to play in Frankie and Zeke’s relationship! I could read about those two forever 😍 but I feel that both Piper and Dalton (from One Eighty) and Frankie and Zeke have more story to tell and I’m disappointed that it looks like this is the final book. There are loose ends I don’t feel have had a proper conclusion.
This was a solid 🌟🌟🌟🌟 read. Marie James, please write more!!!!
There’s nothing not to enjoy about Catch Twenty Two, it’s a very angsty, push and pull romance and I just felt at times that part went on for too long.
I also loved Frankie in One Eighty, she came across as so strong and was an amazing friend. In this one, I felt she was more weak and lost some of her spark from the glimpses we got of her in the first book.
HOWEVER….
I’m a sucker for an enemies-to-lovers/bully romance and Frankie and Zeke certainly fit that bill. I didn’t like the way Zeke treated Frankie for a lot of the book (as expected - it’s a bully book 💁♀️) but I loved how he treated her in the moments he let his guard down. You know from the chapters from Zeke’s point of view that he has feelings for Frankie the whole time, but he doesn’t like that they’ve basically been pushed together and sets out to rebel.
I did see the twist in the story coming, the hints were there very early on, but it still adds something to their love story.
I loved seeing more from Piper and Dalton and the part they had to play in Frankie and Zeke’s relationship! I could read about those two forever 😍 but I feel that both Piper and Dalton (from One Eighty) and Frankie and Zeke have more story to tell and I’m disappointed that it looks like this is the final book. There are loose ends I don’t feel have had a proper conclusion.
This was a solid 🌟🌟🌟🌟 read. Marie James, please write more!!!!
March 23, 2020
Catch Twenty-Two is a brilliant followup to One-Eighty (Book 1) about a different couple, though it did coincided with Book 1 at first, then took on a life of it's own. I know it kind of sounds confusing, but I guess basically, Frankie is visiting her grandmother when she shows up on Zeke's radar since he & since they help work the property. He ends up moving in with Frankie's family back in Colorado, joining Frankie, Piper & Dalton (Book 1) at Westover Prep. Frankie is a genuinely good person, but don't take that as she doesn't have a backbone because she does, she's just got a big heart. Zeke is a hottie, but has those bully tendencies, and his newest target becomes Frankie, and I'm not telling you why either. He seriously gave me whiplash with all of his back & forth of questionable decisions then nice, then back to questionable decisions, making him harder to imprint on since I stayed enraged for a great deal of the story. This story was chalk full of angst with a kicked of drama, but I was more about the rage to be honest. I'm not sure why I love bully romance so much, as I stay mad at the bully for most of the story, but I can't give them up! And Marie James really is doing it right, so hit that one click button to find out how it all plays out! HIGHLY HIGHLY HIGHLY RECOMMEND!
March 15, 2020
Yes book two is better then book one and that is saying something because I really enjoyed book one. This one however really had my emotions. I HATED the Zeke, he was the ultimate high school a a**hole and there were times I just wanted to hit him and hard. That is what made this story for me however, the very connection to Frankie and wanting to protect her, praise her and follow her on her journey. Zeke had a lot of things going on in his life and that just added to the story because this was written in duel POV so I got to understand what was going on in his head at the same time as I was chewing him out for his actions. Frankie wasn't as innocent as she my seam. She has her own issues and insecurities that really came out within the story. Mix all these together and this story was brilliant teen angst what what turned out with perfection. I received an ARC and am leaving an honest review.
March 23, 2020
I absolutely LOVED this book!!! All the angst, the emotions, the heart ache...OH MY GOD!!!! This just might be my absolute favorite book written by this fantastic author. This book hooked me right from the get go. I was so in to the story that I could not put it down, I devoured it within a few hours! Zeke and Frankie's story just pulled me in. I fell in love with Zeke's character pretty much instantly, what's not to love about him?
The push and pull of between the characters made this even more angsty...Will they? Won't they? It pulled me in to the story even more. This book was hot with all that tension between them. And my heart just about burst with happiness in a few parts. This story is just SO GOOD!!
I definitely recommend this high school bully romance. I can't wait to find out what is in store for us next from this author. With each book I become even more hooked on her writing! I can't wait.
This is my voluntary arc review
The push and pull of between the characters made this even more angsty...Will they? Won't they? It pulled me in to the story even more. This book was hot with all that tension between them. And my heart just about burst with happiness in a few parts. This story is just SO GOOD!!
I definitely recommend this high school bully romance. I can't wait to find out what is in store for us next from this author. With each book I become even more hooked on her writing! I can't wait.
This is my voluntary arc review
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