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Rock Stars, Surf and Second Chances #5
Island Side
Hollie Lesowski is a beautiful young actress locked in a legal battle with one of the most powerful and feared directors in Hollywood, a man who betrayed and hurt her, a man she mistakenly believed was her father.
Maximillian Cash is her bodyguard, a blond, blue-eyed giant sworn to protect her. Gentle despite his imposing presence, he seems to be just right for her. But can she trust him with her deepest secrets?
Diesel Le is a rock star in her sister’s band. Devastatingly sexy and annoyingly arrogant, the former pro surfer from Hawaii delights in driving her and everyone else crazy. So, why does she have to continually remind herself to stay away from him?
Two uniquely handsome men tempt her. Both want to make her their own. But one is her employee, and the other is a confirmed player.
Will she be swept away by temptation?
High Tide and Island Side is a heart-twisting, gut-churning, page-turning, coming-of-age duet. It is a triangular second-chance love story with two compelling alpha males but no cheating. Romantic and suspenseful, it sparkles with the glitz of Hollywood, sizzles with the tropical heat of Hawaii, and steals your breath at times, but it will also make your spirit soar.
Don’t miss High Tide and Island Side by New York Times bestselling author Michelle Mankin, the highly anticipated two-part conclusion to the Rock Stars, Surf and Second Chances series.
Maximillian Cash is her bodyguard, a blond, blue-eyed giant sworn to protect her. Gentle despite his imposing presence, he seems to be just right for her. But can she trust him with her deepest secrets?
Diesel Le is a rock star in her sister’s band. Devastatingly sexy and annoyingly arrogant, the former pro surfer from Hawaii delights in driving her and everyone else crazy. So, why does she have to continually remind herself to stay away from him?
Two uniquely handsome men tempt her. Both want to make her their own. But one is her employee, and the other is a confirmed player.
Will she be swept away by temptation?
High Tide and Island Side is a heart-twisting, gut-churning, page-turning, coming-of-age duet. It is a triangular second-chance love story with two compelling alpha males but no cheating. Romantic and suspenseful, it sparkles with the glitz of Hollywood, sizzles with the tropical heat of Hawaii, and steals your breath at times, but it will also make your spirit soar.
Don’t miss High Tide and Island Side by New York Times bestselling author Michelle Mankin, the highly anticipated two-part conclusion to the Rock Stars, Surf and Second Chances series.
- GenresRomanceContemporary
About the author
Michelle Mankin
63 books1,259 followersMICHELLE MANKIN is the New York Times bestselling author of over 40 romance novels.
Romance that Rocks.
Her individual books are FREE in kindleunlimited. Link to them on her author page on Amazon:
http://author.to/MyAuthorPage
BRUTAL STRENGTH trilogy
completed series
TEMPEST
a fan favorite and a completed series
FIND ME
a completed trilogy
ROCK STARS, SURF AND SECOND CHANCES
a completed series
STORM is a #1 bestselling standalone spin-off from the Rockstars, Surf, and Second Chances series
GIRLS RANKING THE ROCK STARS (Rock F*ck Club)
a completed series
IN HIS EYES is a standalone spin-off from the RFC
ONCE UPON A ROCK STAR
4 books planned ending with The Right Song
ADDY"S ROLLERCOASTER ROMANCE
Getting it Wrong
Getting it Right
NO QUARTER
Hot Summer School Night
Breaking Her Bad
MAGIC series
a completed paranormal series
Romance that Rocks.
Her individual books are FREE in kindleunlimited. Link to them on her author page on Amazon:
http://author.to/MyAuthorPage
BRUTAL STRENGTH trilogy
completed series
TEMPEST
a fan favorite and a completed series
FIND ME
a completed trilogy
ROCK STARS, SURF AND SECOND CHANCES
a completed series
STORM is a #1 bestselling standalone spin-off from the Rockstars, Surf, and Second Chances series
GIRLS RANKING THE ROCK STARS (Rock F*ck Club)
a completed series
IN HIS EYES is a standalone spin-off from the RFC
ONCE UPON A ROCK STAR
4 books planned ending with The Right Song
ADDY"S ROLLERCOASTER ROMANCE
Getting it Wrong
Getting it Right
NO QUARTER
Hot Summer School Night
Breaking Her Bad
MAGIC series
a completed paranormal series
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 78 reviews
July 16, 2019
I liked the last half of this book and loved the epilogue which tied everything and everyone together.
I highly recommend the first three books in this series. I would say this book is worth the read to find out how all of the Dirt Dogs and their loves end up.
I highly recommend the first three books in this series. I would say this book is worth the read to find out how all of the Dirt Dogs and their loves end up.
July 6, 2019
***5 ‘#TeamDiesel’ Stars***
Now that’s how you bring all the pieces together and put them back together the way they should be! It wasn’t easy, and still just as frustrating as watching the events in High Tide, but this time I was hooked on all that was going on with Hollie and Diesel and absolutely loved watching them both finally become the people they were always meant to be.
So, my review for High Tide was insanely vague, but considering who is gracing the cover of Island Side, I figure I can be a little less vague. Since it’s quite obvious which...horse...I was rooting for, I can say that I ADORED Diesel. Yes, he is an unrepentant asshat for much of the time I’ve ‘known’ him, but I couldn’t help but respect the brutal honesty that came out of him. Could he have been a bit more considerate and tactful? Sure, but that isn’t him and as I finally got to see under the anger, I found a man with a battered, but golden and wise heart.
Hollie. Here’s the thing with Hollie. I’ve always liked her. I’ve always seen her as being way too old for her actual age and yet still naive in so many ways. So, to say she frustrated me throughout most of these books isn’t a surprise, but I enjoyed watching her learn and grow from each situation she found herself in, good or bad, and emerge as a person who finally understood what her true strengths and vulnerabilities were and worked with them, instead of against them and found what really mattered to her in the end.
As for the “triangular second-chance love story”. I’m happy with the way everything turned out. Hollie’s journey was chock full of heartache in all forms, learning to forgive ~ not only those who hurt her, but herself as well for choices made and not made ~ but it was one that showed that sometimes you find the truest love in the most unexpected of places.
I have to admit that I was a bit hesitant to dive into this baby. Oh, I wanted to see how everything would play out, but I’m always wary about any story that is set in Hawaii since I was born and raised there and though I haven’t called it ‘home’ for many years, my heart still considers it that in every way that matters. It doesn’t matter if the author is from the islands or not, we all have our view of it and it takes a bit to adjust and accept another one. It was a little more difficult this time since both sides of my family lineage can be traced to the Big Island and the Hilo area and I spent quite a bit of time there growing up, but I must give the author props for bringing the city to life. I do use the word ‘City’ loosely since Hilo isn’t call ‘Hilo Town’ for nothing, but the laid back, go with the flow (mostly because doing anything quickly isn’t possible with all the humidity) vibe that I’ve known all my life jumped off the page and I felt like I was home.
This was a great end to the series, though if you’ve read any of the authors books you know that they are all connected in various ways and characters from other books have a way of popping up every now and again, so to say it is an ‘end’ isn’t necessarily true in the general sense, but right for the series. And what I’ve come to love, appreciate and respect about this author’s writing is that while we do get that HEA ending we all crave, she keeps things real because life is messy and not everything has a resolution that we’ll like, but life rolls on and it’s up to us to find the happy and roll with it.
~ Copy provided by the author & voluntarily reviewed ~
Now that’s how you bring all the pieces together and put them back together the way they should be! It wasn’t easy, and still just as frustrating as watching the events in High Tide, but this time I was hooked on all that was going on with Hollie and Diesel and absolutely loved watching them both finally become the people they were always meant to be.
So, my review for High Tide was insanely vague, but considering who is gracing the cover of Island Side, I figure I can be a little less vague. Since it’s quite obvious which...horse...I was rooting for, I can say that I ADORED Diesel. Yes, he is an unrepentant asshat for much of the time I’ve ‘known’ him, but I couldn’t help but respect the brutal honesty that came out of him. Could he have been a bit more considerate and tactful? Sure, but that isn’t him and as I finally got to see under the anger, I found a man with a battered, but golden and wise heart.
Hollie. Here’s the thing with Hollie. I’ve always liked her. I’ve always seen her as being way too old for her actual age and yet still naive in so many ways. So, to say she frustrated me throughout most of these books isn’t a surprise, but I enjoyed watching her learn and grow from each situation she found herself in, good or bad, and emerge as a person who finally understood what her true strengths and vulnerabilities were and worked with them, instead of against them and found what really mattered to her in the end.
As for the “triangular second-chance love story”. I’m happy with the way everything turned out. Hollie’s journey was chock full of heartache in all forms, learning to forgive ~ not only those who hurt her, but herself as well for choices made and not made ~ but it was one that showed that sometimes you find the truest love in the most unexpected of places.
I have to admit that I was a bit hesitant to dive into this baby. Oh, I wanted to see how everything would play out, but I’m always wary about any story that is set in Hawaii since I was born and raised there and though I haven’t called it ‘home’ for many years, my heart still considers it that in every way that matters. It doesn’t matter if the author is from the islands or not, we all have our view of it and it takes a bit to adjust and accept another one. It was a little more difficult this time since both sides of my family lineage can be traced to the Big Island and the Hilo area and I spent quite a bit of time there growing up, but I must give the author props for bringing the city to life. I do use the word ‘City’ loosely since Hilo isn’t call ‘Hilo Town’ for nothing, but the laid back, go with the flow (mostly because doing anything quickly isn’t possible with all the humidity) vibe that I’ve known all my life jumped off the page and I felt like I was home.
This was a great end to the series, though if you’ve read any of the authors books you know that they are all connected in various ways and characters from other books have a way of popping up every now and again, so to say it is an ‘end’ isn’t necessarily true in the general sense, but right for the series. And what I’ve come to love, appreciate and respect about this author’s writing is that while we do get that HEA ending we all crave, she keeps things real because life is messy and not everything has a resolution that we’ll like, but life rolls on and it’s up to us to find the happy and roll with it.
~ Copy provided by the author & voluntarily reviewed ~
July 11, 2019
Ahem...
Honestly, i had a little bit trouble getting to like this book...not so much cause of the story, it was a second chance romance and it work the spades BUT I had issues with liking the main characters...
yikes, it seemed to me, Hollie didn't "learn" anything from her previous experience, considering the bad things happened to her in her young age, one would think she would cope a little differently, but to me, she seemed so eager to "find" LOVE by jumping from one man to another, simply by justyfying the deed cause of the strong chemistry....
She didn't seem to be able to handle the whole impact of life quite maturely (well, she's 19, so i'll give her that, but considering the different "roles" she's taking upon herself should have "made" her act accordingly, many youngsters grow up fast just because they have to...and well, she didn't)
Secondly, Diesel Le, boy, i couldn't really figure this dude out...what was the actual problem he had?
Well, seemed to me, he didn't really want to take the "responsibility" of his actions, so at the age of 35, he still acts like a horny teen....manwhoring is not really a job, no matter how tempting that sounds, and really by that age, he could have found a slower tempo...just saying
But whatever, that's only one thing...the other, he really didn't "deal" with his past either, he's holding on to the loss of his son, like a drowning man to a raft, which enables him to move on...not by "forgetting" his boy but by embracing the fact that even while he's no longer with him, the memories and the sentiment is something you hold on to your heart regardless of the pain, and you build upon that...but holding a grudge and lingering on the bad stuff, really helps no one...at least of all the guy who wants to find more, but is hiding in the shadows of the front cover (the leisure- surfing- dude-enjoying- the- life -with -full -lungs imagery)
Nevertheless, what they eventually "do" for each other is in fact the highlight of the story, but the road to get to that point didn't really leave me satisfied :/
All in all, it was an okay read for me.
*Arc kindely provided by the author in exchange for an honest review*
Honestly, i had a little bit trouble getting to like this book...not so much cause of the story, it was a second chance romance and it work the spades BUT I had issues with liking the main characters...
yikes, it seemed to me, Hollie didn't "learn" anything from her previous experience, considering the bad things happened to her in her young age, one would think she would cope a little differently, but to me, she seemed so eager to "find" LOVE by jumping from one man to another, simply by justyfying the deed cause of the strong chemistry....
She didn't seem to be able to handle the whole impact of life quite maturely (well, she's 19, so i'll give her that, but considering the different "roles" she's taking upon herself should have "made" her act accordingly, many youngsters grow up fast just because they have to...and well, she didn't)
Secondly, Diesel Le, boy, i couldn't really figure this dude out...what was the actual problem he had?
Well, seemed to me, he didn't really want to take the "responsibility" of his actions, so at the age of 35, he still acts like a horny teen....manwhoring is not really a job, no matter how tempting that sounds, and really by that age, he could have found a slower tempo...just saying
But whatever, that's only one thing...the other, he really didn't "deal" with his past either, he's holding on to the loss of his son, like a drowning man to a raft, which enables him to move on...not by "forgetting" his boy but by embracing the fact that even while he's no longer with him, the memories and the sentiment is something you hold on to your heart regardless of the pain, and you build upon that...but holding a grudge and lingering on the bad stuff, really helps no one...at least of all the guy who wants to find more, but is hiding in the shadows of the front cover (the leisure- surfing- dude-enjoying- the- life -with -full -lungs imagery)
Nevertheless, what they eventually "do" for each other is in fact the highlight of the story, but the road to get to that point didn't really leave me satisfied :/
All in all, it was an okay read for me.
*Arc kindely provided by the author in exchange for an honest review*
July 11, 2019
"We might burn down the night if we were ever together, but I knew I would get hurt."
Michelle Mankin pulled out all the stops with this duet. She blew my mind and left me gasping like a guppy at the end of High Tide. Saying I was excited to read Island Side is a huge understatement. While I might be envious that Hollie had two extremely sexy men vying for her attention, I had my sights set on one in particular that I hoped would win her heart.
I really enjoyed my visit to the 'island side'. It was very educational and beautiful in my mind as I experienced things right along with the characters. I kid you not, I'm seriously craving some fresh fruit! 🍍 🥥🍌 I might not be brave enough to ever attempt surfing myself, but I had a blast riding the waves with the characters. 🏄
One of the things, of many, that I especially love about this series are the support characters. Regardless of which one the story focuses on, the others are present at some point and there's never a shortage of love, support or witty banter. Another aspect of this story that really got my engine revving was the suspense factor. There are mysteries to unravel and a few jerks that I'd like to teach a lesson in a way that I could only get away with in fiction. I'll let you figure that one out. 😉
As I'm sure you've figured out, I can only share what I enjoyed and how it made me feel, so as not to spoil the experience for you. I floved it, start to finish. There is so much to love. Did I mention the rock stars? Yeah, I'm addicted to them and the Dirt Dogs do not disappoint. I also have to give the author a shout out for some amazing lyrics (though she gives a sexy rocker the credit). I would love to visit OB to hang out with them, watch them surf and listen to their music...sigh. 🎵
Michelle Mankin pulled out all the stops with this duet. She blew my mind and left me gasping like a guppy at the end of High Tide. Saying I was excited to read Island Side is a huge understatement. While I might be envious that Hollie had two extremely sexy men vying for her attention, I had my sights set on one in particular that I hoped would win her heart.
I really enjoyed my visit to the 'island side'. It was very educational and beautiful in my mind as I experienced things right along with the characters. I kid you not, I'm seriously craving some fresh fruit! 🍍 🥥🍌 I might not be brave enough to ever attempt surfing myself, but I had a blast riding the waves with the characters. 🏄
One of the things, of many, that I especially love about this series are the support characters. Regardless of which one the story focuses on, the others are present at some point and there's never a shortage of love, support or witty banter. Another aspect of this story that really got my engine revving was the suspense factor. There are mysteries to unravel and a few jerks that I'd like to teach a lesson in a way that I could only get away with in fiction. I'll let you figure that one out. 😉
As I'm sure you've figured out, I can only share what I enjoyed and how it made me feel, so as not to spoil the experience for you. I floved it, start to finish. There is so much to love. Did I mention the rock stars? Yeah, I'm addicted to them and the Dirt Dogs do not disappoint. I also have to give the author a shout out for some amazing lyrics (though she gives a sexy rocker the credit). I would love to visit OB to hang out with them, watch them surf and listen to their music...sigh. 🎵
July 6, 2019
Absolutely Amazing
Talk about getting sucked in this book sure did that. This was a book I could not put down. In the previous book High Tide we see Holly struggling with her issues regarding her slimy step father. Her bodyguard Max is always there protecting her...until he isn't. He's fallen for her but Holly is struggling to say the words he wants to hear.
Diesel has always had a way of going head to head with Holly which she has no problem with standing up to him. Diesel warned Holly about his distrust for Max but she won't hear it so he has no choice to impatiently sit back.
The Island Side love story is raw and has many lessons it teaches. Love, perseverance and self-discovery are definitely brought to the forefront in this amazing book. This book takes you in on the very first page and doesn't let go until the very last word is read. I highly recommend this book, this series!
Talk about getting sucked in this book sure did that. This was a book I could not put down. In the previous book High Tide we see Holly struggling with her issues regarding her slimy step father. Her bodyguard Max is always there protecting her...until he isn't. He's fallen for her but Holly is struggling to say the words he wants to hear.
Diesel has always had a way of going head to head with Holly which she has no problem with standing up to him. Diesel warned Holly about his distrust for Max but she won't hear it so he has no choice to impatiently sit back.
The Island Side love story is raw and has many lessons it teaches. Love, perseverance and self-discovery are definitely brought to the forefront in this amazing book. This book takes you in on the very first page and doesn't let go until the very last word is read. I highly recommend this book, this series!
June 17, 2019
I am SO excited to share Hollie's two-part story with you! Release is July 2nd for High Tide and July 11th for Island Side! Text ROCK BOOK to 345345 for a release alert. Start the series on all retailers and enter the MEGA HUGE $150 gift card giveaway! https://linktr.ee/michellemankin Are you ready to get swept away?
July 12, 2019
OFF THE CHARTS SEXY! And a bit sweet...
Michelle Mankin closes her Rock Stars, Surf and Second Chances series with perhaps her steamiest story yet. Hollie and Diesel share a sensual connection that makes for a truly erotic read. With a bossy alpha, dominant and sure of himself male in Diesel and a young, sweet and sensitive heroine in Hollie, there's a lot of angst between these pages. There's so much going on in this story and not much I want to spoil for any reader out there. Except to say READ this series with an ice bucket and a fan nearby (set to high) . You will need something to cool you down.
Oh wait...Diesel can be a bit of a jerk, but I believe it comes from not wanting to waste time in life. And that will only momentarily temper any positive feelings for him. He knows what he wants, he knows the fire that is contained in Hollie, he sees a lot of truths in her. At times it's really fun to see how he baits her. For Hollie, her time with Diesel will stretch her comfort levels but the pay off is glorious. She's Island Side for a reason and Diesel may not be fully aware of why, but make no mistake, he wants the best for her. They will be tested and with passion like theirs it's a tough go. But come out ahead they must. Michelle does a wonderful job creating their story and closing off all the loose ends that is life with the Dirt Dogs.
I fell in love with Michelle's writing in this series and I've gone on to read other books, other series by her. They are as just as fantastic! But there is something special about reading the final book in a series that created that author adoration. Her characters just feel so real, no matter how far their realities are from mine. It's exactly why I read. She creates such amazing passion on her pages and I simply can't recommend her books, this book, this series enough.
*I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review*
Michelle Mankin closes her Rock Stars, Surf and Second Chances series with perhaps her steamiest story yet. Hollie and Diesel share a sensual connection that makes for a truly erotic read. With a bossy alpha, dominant and sure of himself male in Diesel and a young, sweet and sensitive heroine in Hollie, there's a lot of angst between these pages. There's so much going on in this story and not much I want to spoil for any reader out there. Except to say READ this series with an ice bucket and a fan nearby (set to high) . You will need something to cool you down.
Oh wait...Diesel can be a bit of a jerk, but I believe it comes from not wanting to waste time in life. And that will only momentarily temper any positive feelings for him. He knows what he wants, he knows the fire that is contained in Hollie, he sees a lot of truths in her. At times it's really fun to see how he baits her. For Hollie, her time with Diesel will stretch her comfort levels but the pay off is glorious. She's Island Side for a reason and Diesel may not be fully aware of why, but make no mistake, he wants the best for her. They will be tested and with passion like theirs it's a tough go. But come out ahead they must. Michelle does a wonderful job creating their story and closing off all the loose ends that is life with the Dirt Dogs.
I fell in love with Michelle's writing in this series and I've gone on to read other books, other series by her. They are as just as fantastic! But there is something special about reading the final book in a series that created that author adoration. Her characters just feel so real, no matter how far their realities are from mine. It's exactly why I read. She creates such amazing passion on her pages and I simply can't recommend her books, this book, this series enough.
*I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review*
July 12, 2019
I have to say, where the first book was hard for me to get through because I just didn't like the pairing of Hollie and Max (sorry, but there was something about him I just didn't like), I really liked this one because of Diesel. Even though he's so much older than her and I don't usually go for those kinds of stories, I felt like he was a better pairing for her and their relationship felt a lot more natural, where hers with Max felt more forced. There was a much better love and backstory between Diesel and Hollie, too, so that really kept me glued to the pages until the very end. I guess I'm a little biased because I have always loved the Diesel character and I just always wanted to read his story and what a story it is! I won't give any of it away because, as always, I think you need to read it for yourself to get the most out of it, but I will say that it will tug on your heartstrings and show you a whole different side to the bad boy rocker. I really enjoyed getting to know more about him.
July 7, 2019
You must read High Tide before this book to get the full essence of the story. I have been looking so forward to this book as I was devastated with the way the last book ended. I have to say that I really liked Max, but after reading this book I can see that Holly and Diesel were meant for each other. Because of Diesel’s reputation, I wasn’t sure how good he would be for Holly. Happily there was nothing to worry about for me. Diesel is a complicated man that was living from the ghosts of his past. I loved his father and all the wisdom he shared. The interaction between Hollie and Diesel was compelling. For me, this was another fantastic, emotional book with so much love by Ms. Mankin. I strongly encourage you to read the book. I voluntarily read an Advanced Reader’s Copy of this book.
July 6, 2019
*I received a free copy of Island Side. This has in no way influenced my review which is honest and unbiased.*
Everything really got together in Island Side. Hollie found herself and her self confidence, and she did so mostly on her own. Facing her struggles instead of running from them made me love her.
The love story was strong, and I think I loved it even more because it happened partly on the big island in Hawaii. I could practically smell the tropical fruits, the sea, and see the beautiful sunrise and sunset.
Mankin did really well with the end of this series, and I will probably go back and read all of the books back to back now that I can :)
Everything really got together in Island Side. Hollie found herself and her self confidence, and she did so mostly on her own. Facing her struggles instead of running from them made me love her.
The love story was strong, and I think I loved it even more because it happened partly on the big island in Hawaii. I could practically smell the tropical fruits, the sea, and see the beautiful sunrise and sunset.
Mankin did really well with the end of this series, and I will probably go back and read all of the books back to back now that I can :)
July 4, 2019
I love Ob
Love the Dirt dogs
This book grabbed my heart and Squeezed
Cant get enough
Heartstopping intense beautiful broken amazing love Story of Hollie and Diesel
More more more
Love the Dirt dogs
This book grabbed my heart and Squeezed
Cant get enough
Heartstopping intense beautiful broken amazing love Story of Hollie and Diesel
More more more
July 11, 2019
*Stop right here if you haven't read High Tide, there will be spoilers here you won't want to read. Then, come back later for my review of this one.
Holy Hotness!!!
Thank goodness the wait was short for the second half of this duet. High Tide was the 1st part and it was a great beginning for Hollie's story BUT this was the BEST part in my opinion! I was hoping Island Side would take Hollie where I wanted her to go and Michelle Mankin did not disappoint me AT ALL!!
At the end of High Tide, Hollie is left emotionally broken and in hiding as she battles her sadness after her lover and bodyguard has suddenly and unexpectedly passed away. He never knew how she felt about him and was unaware that he was going to be the father of her baby.
Her devasting story is hot news right now and everyone wants a piece of her, including her disgusting stepfather with his ridiculous lawsuit. More than anything, she needs to get out of California for a while and get control of her life again. Facing motherhood alone, at such a young age, has her rattled more than she wants to admit. Only a handful of people know her secret right now, thank goodness for that.
Fanny and Ash decide that the safest place for her is in Hawaii, with that big, sexy, dirty talking Dirt Dogs drummer, Diesel! Holy wow, Can Hollie be at his mercy and deal with his blatant sexual innuendos for weeks while keeping a low profile in his beachfront home? Well, what choice does she have when the whole world and every tabloid is out for her blood.
Diesel is practically rubbing his hands together in glee as the object of his desire lands right where he wants her, alone in his home! How will she be able to resist his obvious charms. OMG..this man is a gorgeous, relentless, possessive, walking ball of hotness. But, as the days go by, he's revealing a softer, caring side with more depth than Hollie ever thought possible. He still doesn't know her biggest secret and will he still feel the same way about her when he does?
What a story Michelle has delighted me with! Diesel will knock you off your feet and you won't even care while you're falling under his spell! Being off the grid in Hawaii has made Hollie accept the new reality of what her life will be and the consequences of it even if she has to be alone for it to succeed. Will she get her happy ending or have to keep on trying?
Get comfy on your patio, the beach, or somewhere relaxing, grab a cool, fruity drink and immerse yourself in the perfect romantic summer getaway between the pages of Island Side. There is alot to love there...Recommend!
I was happy to receive an early copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
Holy Hotness!!!
Thank goodness the wait was short for the second half of this duet. High Tide was the 1st part and it was a great beginning for Hollie's story BUT this was the BEST part in my opinion! I was hoping Island Side would take Hollie where I wanted her to go and Michelle Mankin did not disappoint me AT ALL!!
At the end of High Tide, Hollie is left emotionally broken and in hiding as she battles her sadness after her lover and bodyguard has suddenly and unexpectedly passed away. He never knew how she felt about him and was unaware that he was going to be the father of her baby.
Her devasting story is hot news right now and everyone wants a piece of her, including her disgusting stepfather with his ridiculous lawsuit. More than anything, she needs to get out of California for a while and get control of her life again. Facing motherhood alone, at such a young age, has her rattled more than she wants to admit. Only a handful of people know her secret right now, thank goodness for that.
Fanny and Ash decide that the safest place for her is in Hawaii, with that big, sexy, dirty talking Dirt Dogs drummer, Diesel! Holy wow, Can Hollie be at his mercy and deal with his blatant sexual innuendos for weeks while keeping a low profile in his beachfront home? Well, what choice does she have when the whole world and every tabloid is out for her blood.
Diesel is practically rubbing his hands together in glee as the object of his desire lands right where he wants her, alone in his home! How will she be able to resist his obvious charms. OMG..this man is a gorgeous, relentless, possessive, walking ball of hotness. But, as the days go by, he's revealing a softer, caring side with more depth than Hollie ever thought possible. He still doesn't know her biggest secret and will he still feel the same way about her when he does?
What a story Michelle has delighted me with! Diesel will knock you off your feet and you won't even care while you're falling under his spell! Being off the grid in Hawaii has made Hollie accept the new reality of what her life will be and the consequences of it even if she has to be alone for it to succeed. Will she get her happy ending or have to keep on trying?
Get comfy on your patio, the beach, or somewhere relaxing, grab a cool, fruity drink and immerse yourself in the perfect romantic summer getaway between the pages of Island Side. There is alot to love there...Recommend!
I was happy to receive an early copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 8, 2019
I couldn't wait to crack open this book after the way High Tide left off, so I dove in as soon as it hit my Kindle. My dilemma lies in how to explain why I loved it while not spoiling anything... so here goes nothing... If you have not read High Tide- STOP HERE!!
Hollie's life has just been getting crazier and crazier, and as this book opens, she is on the verge of breaking after the devastating hits she took at the end of book 1. She decides to make her escape to Hawaii for a little while to let the media frenzy die down and to try to find her equilibrium away from everyone, especially her well meaning but overprotective big sister. She isn't sure if Diesel's presence will be a good or bad thing, but she instinctively knows he won't let anything happen to her so she goes with it.
I will make no secret of the fact that I was rooting for the big guy depicted on the cover of this novel. He has been nothing short of a mega pain in the rear at times in this series, but there is something to be said for his style of blunt/ brutal honesty. We finally learn what makes Diesel tick, and the glimpses of the man behind the ten foot walls protecting his heart are worth taking notice. He can raise the temperature in a room with just a smirk but when he drops the rock star persona and doles out the real Diesel Le- watch out!
That island escape is great on the surface but it doesn't eliminate the difficult decisions and publicity firestorm that still await Hollie on the mainland. Out of sight, out of mind only gets her so far especially since she is keeping a huge secret- one with the potential to blow up in her face with the man she has fallen for. But we finally see her gain some self-confidence as she reaches deep to define who she wants to be and what she wants from life going forward. I was definitely happy with the way this story shook out and with the depth demonstrated by the important characters here. If you are looking for an angsty, hot and at times twisty ride, then grab this duet and dive in sooner rather than later!
Hollie's life has just been getting crazier and crazier, and as this book opens, she is on the verge of breaking after the devastating hits she took at the end of book 1. She decides to make her escape to Hawaii for a little while to let the media frenzy die down and to try to find her equilibrium away from everyone, especially her well meaning but overprotective big sister. She isn't sure if Diesel's presence will be a good or bad thing, but she instinctively knows he won't let anything happen to her so she goes with it.
I will make no secret of the fact that I was rooting for the big guy depicted on the cover of this novel. He has been nothing short of a mega pain in the rear at times in this series, but there is something to be said for his style of blunt/ brutal honesty. We finally learn what makes Diesel tick, and the glimpses of the man behind the ten foot walls protecting his heart are worth taking notice. He can raise the temperature in a room with just a smirk but when he drops the rock star persona and doles out the real Diesel Le- watch out!
That island escape is great on the surface but it doesn't eliminate the difficult decisions and publicity firestorm that still await Hollie on the mainland. Out of sight, out of mind only gets her so far especially since she is keeping a huge secret- one with the potential to blow up in her face with the man she has fallen for. But we finally see her gain some self-confidence as she reaches deep to define who she wants to be and what she wants from life going forward. I was definitely happy with the way this story shook out and with the depth demonstrated by the important characters here. If you are looking for an angsty, hot and at times twisty ride, then grab this duet and dive in sooner rather than later!
July 6, 2019
I’m still trying to process Island Side...ok not process but get over the fact that it’s over...no more Dirt Dogs. I’m kind of reeling still from it...this book left me with a book hangover!
Hollie went through literal hell growing up and throughout High Tide...she met Max who she attempted to open up to. Diesel sat beck in silent longing while Hollie had her relationship with Max.
Diesel tried to warn Hollie that Max was no good but Hollie refused to listen to him (because in her mind he just wanted in her pants), Hollie finally found out that Max had deceived her the entire time, not only did he deceive her but he was giving Samuel information to help destroy Hollie’s trial against him.
Meanwhile Hollie finds out she’s pregnant with Max’s baby, and then finds Max dead on the beach the day she was going to tell him.
Fast forward to Island Side...Diesel extended an invite for Hollie to recoup in Hilo at his beachfront house. Hollie going was the best decision she had made, and it didn’t take long for Hollie’s chemistry with Diesel to ignite and burn everything around them.
This was a beautifully written book and by far my favorite in the series! Diesel has always been a mystery and we finally got to see him shine in this book.
Advanced copy received from the author in exchange for an honest review
Hollie went through literal hell growing up and throughout High Tide...she met Max who she attempted to open up to. Diesel sat beck in silent longing while Hollie had her relationship with Max.
Diesel tried to warn Hollie that Max was no good but Hollie refused to listen to him (because in her mind he just wanted in her pants), Hollie finally found out that Max had deceived her the entire time, not only did he deceive her but he was giving Samuel information to help destroy Hollie’s trial against him.
Meanwhile Hollie finds out she’s pregnant with Max’s baby, and then finds Max dead on the beach the day she was going to tell him.
Fast forward to Island Side...Diesel extended an invite for Hollie to recoup in Hilo at his beachfront house. Hollie going was the best decision she had made, and it didn’t take long for Hollie’s chemistry with Diesel to ignite and burn everything around them.
This was a beautifully written book and by far my favorite in the series! Diesel has always been a mystery and we finally got to see him shine in this book.
Advanced copy received from the author in exchange for an honest review
July 7, 2019
I read an advanced copy for an honest review.
This is the coninuation of the story for Hollie.
At the end of High Tide, she is reeling from the betrayal and death of her lover. She also had discovered she is having a baby. She is currently at the end of her rope.
Deisel, who has always been attracted to Hollie, invites her to his house in Hawaii to "get her act back together". He has no idea she is pregnant. He lusts after her and figures if he can have her just once, it will get her out of his system. He has no need for any relationship, having been burned in the past.
When the two of them get together, they realize that once is not enough. They wind up helping each other heal from their internal wounds.. They leaern that there is more to each of them than meets the eye.
This book was amazing. It was a rollercoaster of feelings. It was about learning to trust and show someone your vulnerable side. It was about taking that leap of faith.
You will love this book as much as I did.
This is the coninuation of the story for Hollie.
At the end of High Tide, she is reeling from the betrayal and death of her lover. She also had discovered she is having a baby. She is currently at the end of her rope.
Deisel, who has always been attracted to Hollie, invites her to his house in Hawaii to "get her act back together". He has no idea she is pregnant. He lusts after her and figures if he can have her just once, it will get her out of his system. He has no need for any relationship, having been burned in the past.
When the two of them get together, they realize that once is not enough. They wind up helping each other heal from their internal wounds.. They leaern that there is more to each of them than meets the eye.
This book was amazing. It was a rollercoaster of feelings. It was about learning to trust and show someone your vulnerable side. It was about taking that leap of faith.
You will love this book as much as I did.
July 11, 2019
Hollie does what she has always done, rn from her problems. This time she is in Hawaii and with Diesel the man who has always wanted her. Hollie and Diesel fight their attraction to each other at first, eventually Hollie gives in and them together becomes explosive. Diesel and Hollie both have demons from their past that causes them to hurt each other, yet keep wanting each other still. Can Hollie bring Diesel to the light that his soul needs?
I loved seeing all the past characters from Dirty Dogs. A great way to conclude this series.
I loved seeing all the past characters from Dirty Dogs. A great way to conclude this series.
July 21, 2019
To read this one you should read High Tide first. This one picks up after High Tide. I read the ending of High Tide a couple time to let it set in but I was still hoping that that ending didn't happen. When I read the prologue for Island Side, I almost cried because there was now no denying how High Tide ended. I so felt for Hollie. I wasn't a big fan of Diesel before this book. I totally saw him in a different light in this one. Diesel is a complex character and I think he only let certain people see the real him. This one was an emotional roller-coaster of a read and it was so good. This is one you need to check out.
July 11, 2019
What I THOUGHT for sure. 100% Sure was gonna happen , didn't. Was I disappointed? Maybe. For all five minutes. I can't tell you why just yet, but once you read the first few pages, you'll find out.
Now...with that being said and without giving away too much, let's just say Hollie finds herself. she finds out what it means to be loved and love in return. Something we should all try to do more of.
Another I wish I could more than 5 stars read for me!
Now...with that being said and without giving away too much, let's just say Hollie finds herself. she finds out what it means to be loved and love in return. Something we should all try to do more of.
Another I wish I could more than 5 stars read for me!
July 7, 2019
My apologies to the author but this book was definitely not for me. I loved the first 3 in this series but I had a hard time
liking anything about this one. Hollie was to me very immature and Diesel, who is practically twice her age doesn’t act it. I get she kept a huge secret from him but let me just say, a mature woman would have kicked him in the family jewels instead of getting on her knees. In fact too much thinking with the dick instead of his brain was one of the problems I had with the book.
2 Stars for the epilogue
liking anything about this one. Hollie was to me very immature and Diesel, who is practically twice her age doesn’t act it. I get she kept a huge secret from him but let me just say, a mature woman would have kicked him in the family jewels instead of getting on her knees. In fact too much thinking with the dick instead of his brain was one of the problems I had with the book.
2 Stars for the epilogue
July 21, 2019
First of all you will need a fan to cool yourself off with. Diesel is HOT!
Diesel and Hollie are two tortured souls who deserve to find true love and happiness. Their story pulls on your heartstrings and their ending will have you in tears of happiness. This duet series has been one of the best I have read this year.
Favorite quote: Diesel ~ “You and I both know love isn’t a soft emotion. It has sharp, jagged teeth that sink in deep, past the mind, through the center of your heart, all the way to the essence of your being. And when something that deep gets ahold of you and then gets ripped away, you lose a part of yourself you can never get back.”
Diesel and Hollie are two tortured souls who deserve to find true love and happiness. Their story pulls on your heartstrings and their ending will have you in tears of happiness. This duet series has been one of the best I have read this year.
Favorite quote: Diesel ~ “You and I both know love isn’t a soft emotion. It has sharp, jagged teeth that sink in deep, past the mind, through the center of your heart, all the way to the essence of your being. And when something that deep gets ahold of you and then gets ripped away, you lose a part of yourself you can never get back.”
July 11, 2019
Island Side is one heck of a heart-wrenching conclusion to the Rock Stars, Surf and Second Chances series (also the ending for the duet that includes High Tide). Michelle Mankin doesn't hold back as she gives us the other side of Hollie's story, the one that starts with heartbreak and ends with the happiness that has eluded her for most of her young life.
With Hawaii as our backdrop, we get to see Hollie grab that tiny bit of respite she has been craving from her life as a known actress, the debacle that involves Samuel and the disappointment and sorrow since Max has left her. Who would have thought that the bad boy rocker in Diesel Le could be just what the doctor ordered for this feisty young star? I can tell you right now that Hollie didn't. But yet she just couldn't deny the chemistry between her and the gorgeous surfer who promised her the world and surprised everyone by giving her just that!
There is a ton a sexy times between these two as they fall for the other, both fiercely guarding their hearts from more devastation that has consumed their pasts. The ocean is the perfect balm as Diesel patiently teaches Hollie how to surf and how to conquer the demons that continue to plague her especially in the waves that fears the most. Despite their big age gap, they just simply fit. I was always very curious about the wild member of the Dirt Dogs and I loved finding the other side of him, the one that is caring and thoughtful and truly loving. There is true pain that mars his soul but the feisty Hollie seems to know how to take it away and no one was more shocked than Diesel himself.
Their sparring made me smile because it just made them fall harder for the other. They could both give as good as they got and they never held back even when it might cause the other some anguish. These two simply fit in spite of their presumed differences. And it was pure joy watching as they maneuver through all the dark that threatens their light. Because when they are in sync, that little bit of magic could brighten up the entire sky.
With appearances by all of the Dirt Dogs and the almost constant support from Fanny, this is the perfect send off for this series and all that have passed through these pages. There has been much strife but there has also been a ton of elation and true satisfaction that each of these sexy rockers have found their someone, the person who just makes them better. I will miss this intense crew but am beyond thrilled that Mankin has given them the farewell they most definitely deserve.
Hollie's journey has many great bumps in her road but watching as she handles most of it with the knowledge and grace of someone older shows just how far she has come. And with her man by her side and all of the OB team behind her, I have no doubt her life will be better than ever.
Island Side is intense yet playful. It's passionate yet calming. It's the book that perfectly concludes this well-written and entertaining series and I happily give it 5 solid stars!
With Hawaii as our backdrop, we get to see Hollie grab that tiny bit of respite she has been craving from her life as a known actress, the debacle that involves Samuel and the disappointment and sorrow since Max has left her. Who would have thought that the bad boy rocker in Diesel Le could be just what the doctor ordered for this feisty young star? I can tell you right now that Hollie didn't. But yet she just couldn't deny the chemistry between her and the gorgeous surfer who promised her the world and surprised everyone by giving her just that!
There is a ton a sexy times between these two as they fall for the other, both fiercely guarding their hearts from more devastation that has consumed their pasts. The ocean is the perfect balm as Diesel patiently teaches Hollie how to surf and how to conquer the demons that continue to plague her especially in the waves that fears the most. Despite their big age gap, they just simply fit. I was always very curious about the wild member of the Dirt Dogs and I loved finding the other side of him, the one that is caring and thoughtful and truly loving. There is true pain that mars his soul but the feisty Hollie seems to know how to take it away and no one was more shocked than Diesel himself.
Their sparring made me smile because it just made them fall harder for the other. They could both give as good as they got and they never held back even when it might cause the other some anguish. These two simply fit in spite of their presumed differences. And it was pure joy watching as they maneuver through all the dark that threatens their light. Because when they are in sync, that little bit of magic could brighten up the entire sky.
With appearances by all of the Dirt Dogs and the almost constant support from Fanny, this is the perfect send off for this series and all that have passed through these pages. There has been much strife but there has also been a ton of elation and true satisfaction that each of these sexy rockers have found their someone, the person who just makes them better. I will miss this intense crew but am beyond thrilled that Mankin has given them the farewell they most definitely deserve.
Hollie's journey has many great bumps in her road but watching as she handles most of it with the knowledge and grace of someone older shows just how far she has come. And with her man by her side and all of the OB team behind her, I have no doubt her life will be better than ever.
Island Side is intense yet playful. It's passionate yet calming. It's the book that perfectly concludes this well-written and entertaining series and I happily give it 5 solid stars!
July 11, 2019
Island side
By: Michelle Mankin
📚💕⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💕📚
Heartbreakingly beautiful!
Let me start by saying I’ve been nervously waiting for this book. Ive had a soft sport for Holly and Diesel from my first introduction to both of them in the previous Rock Stars, Surf and Second Chances books. In the conclusion of Hollie’s story we get to Diesel and Hollie’s story. We get to find out if two beautiful souls who put everyone but themselves first can finally believe in love and forever. These two are so deep and well written I didn’t want it to be over.
Authors Blurb: Hollie Lesowski is a beautiful young actress locked in a legal battle with one of the most powerful and feared directors in Hollywood, a man who betrayed and hurt her, a man she mistakenly believed was her father.
Maximillian Cash is her bodyguard, a blond, blue-eyed giant sworn to protect her. Gentle despite his imposing presence, he seems to be just right for her. But can she trust him with her deepest secrets?
Diesel Le is a rock star in her sister's band. Devastatingly sexy and annoyingly arrogant, the former pro surfer from Hawaii delights in driving her and everyone else crazy. So, why does she have to continually remind herself to stay away from him? Two uniquely handsome men tempt her. Both want to make her their own. But one is her employee, and the other is a confirmed player.
Will she be swept away by temptation? High Tide and Island Side is a heart-twisting, gut-churning, page-turning, coming-of-age duet. It is a triangular second-chance love story with two compelling alpha males but no cheating. Romantic and suspenseful, it sparkles with the glitz of Hollywood, sizzles with the tropical heat of Hawaii, and steals your breath at times, but it will also make your spirit soar.
The writing is flawless, and the words are so captivating, the plot had so many twists and turns and none that I was expecting, and many shocking moments.
This book has everything I love in a book. Then you add that it's beautifully written and believable. It is easily a five star read. Written in dual POV my personal favorite this story flows so incredibly well that the next thing you know your 80% into the book and loving every second of it. The believable way the characters interact is perfect. Run, Hop, Jump or use your (1 click) finger to do whatever you have to do and get this amazing book. It'll break your heart, you'll want to scream with frustration and it'll let you discover that love just might conquer all. The chemistry is steamy and sweet and oh so romantic.
By: Michelle Mankin
📚💕⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💕📚
Heartbreakingly beautiful!
Let me start by saying I’ve been nervously waiting for this book. Ive had a soft sport for Holly and Diesel from my first introduction to both of them in the previous Rock Stars, Surf and Second Chances books. In the conclusion of Hollie’s story we get to Diesel and Hollie’s story. We get to find out if two beautiful souls who put everyone but themselves first can finally believe in love and forever. These two are so deep and well written I didn’t want it to be over.
Authors Blurb: Hollie Lesowski is a beautiful young actress locked in a legal battle with one of the most powerful and feared directors in Hollywood, a man who betrayed and hurt her, a man she mistakenly believed was her father.
Maximillian Cash is her bodyguard, a blond, blue-eyed giant sworn to protect her. Gentle despite his imposing presence, he seems to be just right for her. But can she trust him with her deepest secrets?
Diesel Le is a rock star in her sister's band. Devastatingly sexy and annoyingly arrogant, the former pro surfer from Hawaii delights in driving her and everyone else crazy. So, why does she have to continually remind herself to stay away from him? Two uniquely handsome men tempt her. Both want to make her their own. But one is her employee, and the other is a confirmed player.
Will she be swept away by temptation? High Tide and Island Side is a heart-twisting, gut-churning, page-turning, coming-of-age duet. It is a triangular second-chance love story with two compelling alpha males but no cheating. Romantic and suspenseful, it sparkles with the glitz of Hollywood, sizzles with the tropical heat of Hawaii, and steals your breath at times, but it will also make your spirit soar.
The writing is flawless, and the words are so captivating, the plot had so many twists and turns and none that I was expecting, and many shocking moments.
This book has everything I love in a book. Then you add that it's beautifully written and believable. It is easily a five star read. Written in dual POV my personal favorite this story flows so incredibly well that the next thing you know your 80% into the book and loving every second of it. The believable way the characters interact is perfect. Run, Hop, Jump or use your (1 click) finger to do whatever you have to do and get this amazing book. It'll break your heart, you'll want to scream with frustration and it'll let you discover that love just might conquer all. The chemistry is steamy and sweet and oh so romantic.
July 11, 2019
First off, let me say if you haven’t read High Tide (which I am sure you will have) then you really need to put down Island Side and start at the beginning. High Tide is a must…don’t waste your time trying to decipher any of this without the history that the first book gives you.
From the end of the last book, this one just totally takes off. Hollie is spiralling her life seemingly getting ever more crazy but can she really find some rest bite? Away from all the push and pull around her?
I wanted her to be strong and to stand her ground, but I also understood that she was being swamped by angst, her sister meant well much of the time but that didn’t mean that it wasn’t more than most would have been able to deal with. Would time out of the situation be the right thing to do…I didn’t know but the decision was hers to make and to complicate matters she had to deal with the fact that as much as she knew Diesel would be able to keep her safe…did she really want him with her?
Now, I liked that in this book Diesel was uncovered so to speak, the author exposed a little more of why he was the way he was, and she started to chip away at the protective shell that he seemed to like to keep himself hidden away behind. He was what he was, in many respects he was a simple soul, he called things as he saw them and hid from nothing and I liked that about him. I got that he was every inch the rock star and behaved accordingly when necessary but what I really liked was that when he stopped hiding behind the image and we got to see the real man, he was exceptional…a real star.
Overall, I thought that Hollie showed signs of being the woman that not only I wanted her to be but that I think she wanted to be too, she grew as the story progressed and in some respects found a backbone, the ability to show her mettle and flex a little muscle when it came to being and doing what she wanted to do. It wasn’t always each but then the things that matter rarely are but secrets aside, this was everything the blurb intimated it would be, an angsty ride that was the perfect conclusion.
From the end of the last book, this one just totally takes off. Hollie is spiralling her life seemingly getting ever more crazy but can she really find some rest bite? Away from all the push and pull around her?
I wanted her to be strong and to stand her ground, but I also understood that she was being swamped by angst, her sister meant well much of the time but that didn’t mean that it wasn’t more than most would have been able to deal with. Would time out of the situation be the right thing to do…I didn’t know but the decision was hers to make and to complicate matters she had to deal with the fact that as much as she knew Diesel would be able to keep her safe…did she really want him with her?
Now, I liked that in this book Diesel was uncovered so to speak, the author exposed a little more of why he was the way he was, and she started to chip away at the protective shell that he seemed to like to keep himself hidden away behind. He was what he was, in many respects he was a simple soul, he called things as he saw them and hid from nothing and I liked that about him. I got that he was every inch the rock star and behaved accordingly when necessary but what I really liked was that when he stopped hiding behind the image and we got to see the real man, he was exceptional…a real star.
Overall, I thought that Hollie showed signs of being the woman that not only I wanted her to be but that I think she wanted to be too, she grew as the story progressed and in some respects found a backbone, the ability to show her mettle and flex a little muscle when it came to being and doing what she wanted to do. It wasn’t always each but then the things that matter rarely are but secrets aside, this was everything the blurb intimated it would be, an angsty ride that was the perfect conclusion.
July 10, 2019
** I was provided an ARC in exchange for my honest review. **
This was a good finish to Hollie's story. We pick up right where the last one left off... Max is dead. Hollie is grieving. She attends the funeral and then, to escape from her life for a while, she heads to Hawaii to stay with Diesel. Diesel knows she's been hurt, though he doesn't exactly back off. I suppose maybe that comes from the death of his son -- knowing that life could end at any time, so you should take your opportunities as they come. At first, Hollie is a little standoffish, and understandably so. She'd just lost the guy she thought she was madly in love with, she's pregnant, a lot of things seemed unresolved from that previous relationship.
There's always been underlying sexual tension between Diesel and Hollie, but it seems to go off the charts when Diesel offers to teach Hollie how to surf as a way for her to get over her fear of the ocean. Of course, that lets him put his hands all over her, and Hollie likes his hands on her. She finally decides to give in to her lust. She figures she won't be there long and Diesel will just move on after he's done with her, right? And if her heart gets in the way, so be it. But Diesel doesn't ever seem to be done with her, at least until her secret is revealed to him and he flips out. Which then takes Hollie on a quest to find her real dad.
I liked that Diesel came to his senses. I liked all the plans he made near the end of the book. I liked that Hollie and Fanny were able to learn about their father and what actually happened. The one thing that was disappointing was that the step-father didn't go down as hard as I'd hoped. But Hollie was OK with where everything ended up, and since it happened to her, I guess we have to be happy for her that she's found peace with everything.
This was a good finish to Hollie's story. We pick up right where the last one left off... Max is dead. Hollie is grieving. She attends the funeral and then, to escape from her life for a while, she heads to Hawaii to stay with Diesel. Diesel knows she's been hurt, though he doesn't exactly back off. I suppose maybe that comes from the death of his son -- knowing that life could end at any time, so you should take your opportunities as they come. At first, Hollie is a little standoffish, and understandably so. She'd just lost the guy she thought she was madly in love with, she's pregnant, a lot of things seemed unresolved from that previous relationship.
There's always been underlying sexual tension between Diesel and Hollie, but it seems to go off the charts when Diesel offers to teach Hollie how to surf as a way for her to get over her fear of the ocean. Of course, that lets him put his hands all over her, and Hollie likes his hands on her. She finally decides to give in to her lust. She figures she won't be there long and Diesel will just move on after he's done with her, right? And if her heart gets in the way, so be it. But Diesel doesn't ever seem to be done with her, at least until her secret is revealed to him and he flips out. Which then takes Hollie on a quest to find her real dad.
I liked that Diesel came to his senses. I liked all the plans he made near the end of the book. I liked that Hollie and Fanny were able to learn about their father and what actually happened. The one thing that was disappointing was that the step-father didn't go down as hard as I'd hoped. But Hollie was OK with where everything ended up, and since it happened to her, I guess we have to be happy for her that she's found peace with everything.
July 10, 2019
Island Side is a wonderful culmination of the Rock Stars, Surf and Second Chances series. It ties up loose ends and picks up right where we left off in High Tide. This is definitely Hollie and Diesel's story but all the characters we've met before play an important role and those that aren't family are family by choice and supportive and protective of each other. Fanny, Hollie's sister, worried throughout.
There are a lot of twists and turns as we go from Ocean Beach, California to the Big Island in Hawaii where most of the story is set, and then back to California. I liked Diesel's dad and the wonderful descriptions of the island and the beach. While surfing isn't my thing I felt like I was there. The book was over the top in its steaminess but it fit with Diesel and with Hollie once she let down her barriers. It was heartwarming to see her become her own person and stand up for herself and I liked how she and Diesel were together until he disappointed me. Until then we saw a different side to him including his interactions with his dad as well as hers. Hollie and Diesel learned to trust each other and talked about things they couldn't with others. There were so many stories going on and they all tied together nicely. There was an unnecessary amount of swearing that didn't enhance the story. There is closure and a few happily ever afters that were definitely better than I anticipated. I would love to revisit them all in a holiday novella to see where life takes them.
Ms. Mankin is a new to me author only having read the last three books in the series. I do plan to read the first two, Outside and Riptide, as well as some of her other books. It's always great to find new authors.
There are a lot of twists and turns as we go from Ocean Beach, California to the Big Island in Hawaii where most of the story is set, and then back to California. I liked Diesel's dad and the wonderful descriptions of the island and the beach. While surfing isn't my thing I felt like I was there. The book was over the top in its steaminess but it fit with Diesel and with Hollie once she let down her barriers. It was heartwarming to see her become her own person and stand up for herself and I liked how she and Diesel were together until he disappointed me. Until then we saw a different side to him including his interactions with his dad as well as hers. Hollie and Diesel learned to trust each other and talked about things they couldn't with others. There were so many stories going on and they all tied together nicely. There was an unnecessary amount of swearing that didn't enhance the story. There is closure and a few happily ever afters that were definitely better than I anticipated. I would love to revisit them all in a holiday novella to see where life takes them.
Ms. Mankin is a new to me author only having read the last three books in the series. I do plan to read the first two, Outside and Riptide, as well as some of her other books. It's always great to find new authors.
July 14, 2019
Wow Island Side is a beautiful conclusion to this twisty, complex, utterly consuming story! With expertly written surprises that I never saw coming. Every single time I thought I had something figured out - bam, nope! Love this!
This duet was a rough yet eventually heartwarming journey filled with transformation for Hollie. She may have been a sheltered, naïve teen in the start - her strength and character are powerful forces that guide her. I love a strong heroine and Hollie is definitely tenacious. Spanning over a critical couple years of her reaching adulthood, taking hold of her career, learning the navigate media exposure, awakening her sensual side and looking temptation in the eye left and right.
On the heels of an assault by her step-father she is truly scrambling to figure out who she is. Who she can trust. Secrets and deceit doomed her connections in the past. When she is reeling from her world being turned upside down once again she finds peace in a very unexpected place. Not going to lie - I thought Diesel was a cocky, kind of immature for his age and just plain pushy. However he too goes through a bit of a transition. Both from breaking down the walls he's constructed after surviving loss of his own and finally having the right person in his life at the right time - seeing a future and being happy. His dirty talk is on point though! Whew hot!
Will these two unlikely people find something true? Will their budding feelings survive the surf?
This story was so beautifully woven that this conclusion is EVERYTHING! I swooned because seriously Diesel couldn't have been more thoughtful. This ending filled my heart with so much hope.
This duet was a rough yet eventually heartwarming journey filled with transformation for Hollie. She may have been a sheltered, naïve teen in the start - her strength and character are powerful forces that guide her. I love a strong heroine and Hollie is definitely tenacious. Spanning over a critical couple years of her reaching adulthood, taking hold of her career, learning the navigate media exposure, awakening her sensual side and looking temptation in the eye left and right.
On the heels of an assault by her step-father she is truly scrambling to figure out who she is. Who she can trust. Secrets and deceit doomed her connections in the past. When she is reeling from her world being turned upside down once again she finds peace in a very unexpected place. Not going to lie - I thought Diesel was a cocky, kind of immature for his age and just plain pushy. However he too goes through a bit of a transition. Both from breaking down the walls he's constructed after surviving loss of his own and finally having the right person in his life at the right time - seeing a future and being happy. His dirty talk is on point though! Whew hot!
Will these two unlikely people find something true? Will their budding feelings survive the surf?
This story was so beautifully woven that this conclusion is EVERYTHING! I swooned because seriously Diesel couldn't have been more thoughtful. This ending filled my heart with so much hope.
July 24, 2019
After reading High Tide I was a little unhappy with the way the story ending on a cliffhanger but after finishing this book I felt all happy again.
Hollie Lesowski is trying to deal with the shocking news she has received the best she knows how to....lock herself up in her apartment and ignore everyone. When her sister, Fanny, best friend, Ernie, agent, Olivia and Fanny's boyfriend, Ash stage an intervention, Hollie agrees she needs to get away and they convince her to go hang out with Diesel in Maui, HI for awhile. Holiie is nervous about seeing Diesel but goes anyways.
As Hollie spends more time with Diesel, she starts to realize there is more to the guy that just a playboy rock god. They both have such demons from their past and together they seem to be working them out. The only problem is is that Hollie has not told Diesel about her big secret. Just when it looks like their lives are meant to be together and Hollie decides to tell Diesel about her secret, he finds out other ways and all hell breaks loose. It is going to take a lot of soul searching for both Hollie and Diesel to get past the pains of their pasts in order for them to find their happiness but it is well worth the wait.
I just loved Diesel. He was such a fun, cocky, alpha male with the goods to back it up. I just adored him with his dad. Hollie had been through so much in her young 18 years that it was a wonder she could still stand on her own two feet. These are two individuals that really needed each other in their lives in order to find any form of happiness and together they finally find that.
Hollie Lesowski is trying to deal with the shocking news she has received the best she knows how to....lock herself up in her apartment and ignore everyone. When her sister, Fanny, best friend, Ernie, agent, Olivia and Fanny's boyfriend, Ash stage an intervention, Hollie agrees she needs to get away and they convince her to go hang out with Diesel in Maui, HI for awhile. Holiie is nervous about seeing Diesel but goes anyways.
As Hollie spends more time with Diesel, she starts to realize there is more to the guy that just a playboy rock god. They both have such demons from their past and together they seem to be working them out. The only problem is is that Hollie has not told Diesel about her big secret. Just when it looks like their lives are meant to be together and Hollie decides to tell Diesel about her secret, he finds out other ways and all hell breaks loose. It is going to take a lot of soul searching for both Hollie and Diesel to get past the pains of their pasts in order for them to find their happiness but it is well worth the wait.
I just loved Diesel. He was such a fun, cocky, alpha male with the goods to back it up. I just adored him with his dad. Hollie had been through so much in her young 18 years that it was a wonder she could still stand on her own two feet. These are two individuals that really needed each other in their lives in order to find any form of happiness and together they finally find that.
July 9, 2019
I received this ARC for an honest review. I liked this book better than part one. But I didn’t like how Diesel immediately went to hitting on Hollie right after Max died that was not ok with me.
Hollie did some growing up which I liked to see but I wouldn’t say it was a lot. I was annoyed and disappointed in how she approached the lawsuit and allegations. I really didn’t feel like she ever took it seriously.
Diesel had some issues which understandable but I wish some more time was spent on him overcoming that. And who he was as a person. There was more to Diesel than was discussed. He had layers but I don’t think we uncovered them all or even a fraction of them.
I was definitely disappointed in Ash and Fanny and their reactions to some situations. Hollie and Diesel are adults but they kept inserting themselves and coming down on Diesel for everything that went wrong and blaming him. Even when it was reactionary and it would’ve been understandable. As his friend I would’ve thought Ash would’ve been more understanding not more accusatory.
I enjoyed the closure the characters were able to get it wasn’t something I expected but welcomed. I would recommend the series to others and would encourage them to read them all close together to get a good picture.
Hollie did some growing up which I liked to see but I wouldn’t say it was a lot. I was annoyed and disappointed in how she approached the lawsuit and allegations. I really didn’t feel like she ever took it seriously.
Diesel had some issues which understandable but I wish some more time was spent on him overcoming that. And who he was as a person. There was more to Diesel than was discussed. He had layers but I don’t think we uncovered them all or even a fraction of them.
I was definitely disappointed in Ash and Fanny and their reactions to some situations. Hollie and Diesel are adults but they kept inserting themselves and coming down on Diesel for everything that went wrong and blaming him. Even when it was reactionary and it would’ve been understandable. As his friend I would’ve thought Ash would’ve been more understanding not more accusatory.
I enjoyed the closure the characters were able to get it wasn’t something I expected but welcomed. I would recommend the series to others and would encourage them to read them all close together to get a good picture.
July 10, 2019
ARC gifted by the author in exchange for an honest review.
This is book two of a duet and book one, High Tide, should be read before this.
The conclusion of Hollie's story was a little bittersweet. The story itself was great, but it also marks the end of the Rock Stars, Surf, and Second Chances series. I have enjoyed every book in this series, and I look forward to reading more from this author in the future.
This book takes place right after the events of High Tide and continues Hollie's story. After the emotional cliffhanger in book one, Hollie needs to get away and decompress. She heads to Hawaii at Diesel's invitation where she faces new dilemmas, meets new people, and begins to heal. She finally sees a resolution to the situation with her stepfather. (I was a tiny bit disappointed with how that ended but I guess that's life, and it does show how much Hollie grows as a person.)
Overall I was happy with this duet, I thought it fit nicely into the series. I really enjoyed seeing the characters from the other books. I've already reread Outside and Oceanside, and I can see myself rereading this duet as well. I definitely recommend this series, starting with book one, Outside.
This is book two of a duet and book one, High Tide, should be read before this.
The conclusion of Hollie's story was a little bittersweet. The story itself was great, but it also marks the end of the Rock Stars, Surf, and Second Chances series. I have enjoyed every book in this series, and I look forward to reading more from this author in the future.
This book takes place right after the events of High Tide and continues Hollie's story. After the emotional cliffhanger in book one, Hollie needs to get away and decompress. She heads to Hawaii at Diesel's invitation where she faces new dilemmas, meets new people, and begins to heal. She finally sees a resolution to the situation with her stepfather. (I was a tiny bit disappointed with how that ended but I guess that's life, and it does show how much Hollie grows as a person.)
Overall I was happy with this duet, I thought it fit nicely into the series. I really enjoyed seeing the characters from the other books. I've already reread Outside and Oceanside, and I can see myself rereading this duet as well. I definitely recommend this series, starting with book one, Outside.
July 17, 2019
I love the fact, that Michelle starts off this book right where we left Hollie, in book 4. The pain and the confusion of her current situation forces her to look outward to help herself find, well herself.
Enter Diesel, the one man she has been running from, might just well be the one she should have been running to all along. All through this series you see how the characters find what their inner selves are really looking for and how to overcome the obstacles that life and fate have put in their ways.
Passion for life, love, music and peace is the underlying meaning through out the series. Hollie and Diesel continue on that path of s he would call it Ohana~ Family.
This book contains the heat you would expect in a romance brought to a higher level of steaminess that would make the oceans that Diesel loves so much boil over.
An Amazing conclusion to the Rock Stars, Surf and Second Chances duet,for Hollie and Diesel, but we also get a sense of closure for some well deserved answers for both sisters.
This series has brought together a group of misfits that fit perfectly together as perfectly as it was unlikely they would. A must read. 5 Moon Stars all they way!
Enter Diesel, the one man she has been running from, might just well be the one she should have been running to all along. All through this series you see how the characters find what their inner selves are really looking for and how to overcome the obstacles that life and fate have put in their ways.
Passion for life, love, music and peace is the underlying meaning through out the series. Hollie and Diesel continue on that path of s he would call it Ohana~ Family.
This book contains the heat you would expect in a romance brought to a higher level of steaminess that would make the oceans that Diesel loves so much boil over.
An Amazing conclusion to the Rock Stars, Surf and Second Chances duet,for Hollie and Diesel, but we also get a sense of closure for some well deserved answers for both sisters.
This series has brought together a group of misfits that fit perfectly together as perfectly as it was unlikely they would. A must read. 5 Moon Stars all they way!
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