Straight Up

If you don't mind pushy over the top, demanding young women, you might like this book. For me, Cassidy was a hypocrite and annoying. She demanded complete honesty w/o giving it. At times she was very immature. Lincoln was sweet, but whipped like all the coupled men in this series and the Blue Beech series. I felt like the book should have ended, based on what was happening, 20 pgs before it did. This series is not for me.

4.5 Stars This is the third book in the series and boy is it a great addition to the series. We have Lincoln Archer's brother and Cassidy who we've met in the Blue series. Those two worlds really colliding made me squeal a bit. I loved Lincoln and Cassidy. Their banter was one of my favorite parts of the book. Man what Cassidy is going through is scary, but with the support of family and friends she will get through it. I so love the gang at the Twisted Fox. It makes me wish I could be part of the gang because they would be awesome friends to have. Lincoln is moving on to the new phase in his life and having Cassidy come crashing into his life will be the best thing to ever happen to him. She brings fun and light back into his life. Gives him hope of a second chance that he never thought he deserved. It's a great read that's going to suck you right in and you will have a heard time putting the book down.

Lincoln Callahan is a hardened man because of his past. People set him up to "take the fall" for a crime that was not his. He has paid for those crimes and got his freedom back. Coming out was tough for him, and with nothing on his name by then. Now, he wants a simple life, a new start, and nothing to do with a certain blonde waitress at the Twisted Fox. Cassidy Lane is a fun-loving lady who was at the wrong place, at the wrong time, PLUS implicated a crime that she DID NOT do. I am not sure how I feel with her being unfortunate that no one seems to believe her innocence OR that people would think she would do such a despicable act. I enjoyed many aspects of the book, even when I initially wasn't interested in the story. Even if I want not to like the book, I couldn't. There were so many things that will get readers hooked. 1) Writing style that hooks. The POV is in the third person - ominous, and the writing style is easy and relatable. I love the witty banter and flirtatious conversations between Cassidy and Lincoln. They are hilarious together! There is also a strong connection between them that they become more open to sharing their secrets without fear or judgment. The plot's build-up is at the right momentum that will keep readers pushing on. Things did not feel "rush" or forced, even if a lot of things were happening around the main characters. 2) Memorable and well-developed characters were a big plus! The character development is well done. The flashback helped readers understand Cassidy and Lincoln better without overwhelming or negating the main plot. The character traits were realistic, and emotions were genuine. The characters' complexity grew and matured as the story progressed. Each of them learns to "take charge" and stop being taken for granted by others. All of this helps readers connect to them, given each main character's ample time to share their thoughts. Cassidy is a class of her own! She is the number one reason that I kept on reading. I am thankful I did because she is an excellent role model for everyone who has been forsaken by life and everyone. Even when she lost everything - personal and professional, she did not shut herself out or cause her to "crumble." Instead, Cassidy took another approach on her career path and started rebuilding her confidence at Anchor Ridge, away from her family and friends. A fresh start is a way to go. 3) Unexpected plot twists add to the suspense. A surprise (or two) comes around, but this time, there is danger in the mix - cover-ups and conspiracies. Coincidentally, Cassidy's ominous past intertwines with Lincoln's and comes to settle "loose-ends." Being having a hero complex, Lincoln tries his best to protect Cassidy - the point of risking his freedom again. Both main characters have to look out and stand firm together as they find their redemption, and a second chance, amidst the danger surrounding them. 4) Family is everything. I love how the book is all about family and friends who love the main characters. The love (and concern) oozes out of the pages beautifully. I felt each confession by all of the members there, and it all ran real, heartfelt, and genuine. Many supporting characters looked out for Lincoln and Cassidy that even with their unfortunate pasts, all of the other characters rallied as needed, no questions asked. Note: It is important to note that readers do not need to start from the beginning of the series to read this book. Cassidy and Lincoln's story runs jointly with the other books in the series but from different perspectives. Who knew that all the characters have so much backstory between them to fuel a whole series! In summary, I recommend Straight Up to readers who are in the trope of second chances, age-gap (not too much, if you ask me), romantic comedy, brooding alpha males, and sassy yet strong heroines. It is rare for me to connect to a book character, so I was surprised at how much I adore, like, love Cassidy! She could be any reader's no holds barred, sassy, strong-minded best friend.