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Dearest #2
Finding Dandelion
When soccer all-star Jax Avery collides with Dani Hart on his twenty-first birthday, their connection is instantaneous and explosive. For the first time in years, Jax isn’t interested in his usual hit-it and quit-it approach.
But Dani knows better. Allowing herself a night to be carefree and feel the intensity of their attraction won’t change anything when it comes to dealing with a player. So when Jax doesn’t recognize Dani the next time he sees her, it shouldn’t be a total shock. The fact that he’s her new roommate’s brother? That’s a shock.
Dani doesn’t regret that night with Jax, just the need to lie about it. Since her roommate has made it clear what she thinks about her brother’s “type” of girl, the last thing Dani wants is to admit what happened.
Jax knows he’s walking a fine line on the soccer team. One more misstep and he’s off the roster, his plans to go pro be damned. Except he can’t seem to care. About anything… except for the one girl who keeps invading his dreams.
Despite Jax’s fuzzy memory of his hot hookup with his sister’s friend, he can’t stay away from her, even if that means breaking his own rules. But there are bigger forces at work–realities that can end Dani’s college career and lies that can tear them apart. Jax realizes what he’s losing if Dani walks away, but will he sacrifice his future to be with her? And will she let him if he does?
But Dani knows better. Allowing herself a night to be carefree and feel the intensity of their attraction won’t change anything when it comes to dealing with a player. So when Jax doesn’t recognize Dani the next time he sees her, it shouldn’t be a total shock. The fact that he’s her new roommate’s brother? That’s a shock.
Dani doesn’t regret that night with Jax, just the need to lie about it. Since her roommate has made it clear what she thinks about her brother’s “type” of girl, the last thing Dani wants is to admit what happened.
Jax knows he’s walking a fine line on the soccer team. One more misstep and he’s off the roster, his plans to go pro be damned. Except he can’t seem to care. About anything… except for the one girl who keeps invading his dreams.
Despite Jax’s fuzzy memory of his hot hookup with his sister’s friend, he can’t stay away from her, even if that means breaking his own rules. But there are bigger forces at work–realities that can end Dani’s college career and lies that can tear them apart. Jax realizes what he’s losing if Dani walks away, but will he sacrifice his future to be with her? And will she let him if he does?
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First published July 9, 2014
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About the author
Lex Martin
33 books5,622 followersLex Martin is the USA Today bestselling author of Varsity Dads, Texas Nights, and the Dearest series. She writes contemporary romance novels, the steamy kind she hopes her readers love but her parents avoid. A former high school English teacher and freelance journalist, she resides in Texas with her husband and twin daughters. Drop her a line. She loves hearing from readers.
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NEW RELEASE: FALLING STARS is now available! Get your copy here:
EBOOK: https://geni.us/FallingStarsEbook
PAPERBACK: https://geni.us/FallingStarsRegPPBK
DISCREET PAPERBACK: https://geni.us/FallingStarsDiscPPbk
GET A FREE SHORT STORY:
http://bit.ly/2mQLZpX
SUBSCRIBE:
http://bit.ly/2DrPcUi
FOLLOW ON FACEBOOK:
http://on.fb.me/1xbYIVv
JOIN LEX’S FACEBOOK GROUP:
http://bit.ly/2dRXBGE
FOLLOW ON INSTAGRAM:
http://bit.ly/2rJMwfN
VISIT HER WEBSITE:
https://www.lexmartinwrites.com/
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 694 reviews
July 12, 2014
☆I received an ARC of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. Thank you hun!!☆
"If you don't fight for what you love, don't cry for what you lose."
Finding Dandelion was just AMAZING. It isn’t often that I come across authors that I will go out of my way to read their work the moment they send me a copy, but, Lex Martin is ONE of these select few authors that I make an absolute exception for. I LITERALLY sat and devoured this book in ONE sitting. No joke…I even didn’t notice when the sun went down to even turn on the lights in my house! Haha
So the story…
Jax Avery:
The filthy rich, twin brother Casanova of Clementine from book one. He also happens to be Boston College's all star soccer player on probation and every woman’s wet dream.
Danielle “Dani”/”Dandelion” Hart:
Just your normal, average girl trying to get through college like everyone else and just so happens to be Jax’ sister’s new roommate.
Dani initially sees Jax on the street but doesn’t know who he is (although she notably remarks that he is really cute) and later meets up with him again at a nearby club where they end up....
in one of the back private rooms.
Things are great in the heat of the moment until life gets in the way and Jax is whisked away and ends up not remembering Dani. Sounds convenient right? But in Jax's defense, he has a good reason for it so don't throw rocks at him mkay?
*wink wink*
Lex Martin does a superb job as she keeps readers wondering what’s to come next. Will Jax ever recognize the girl he vaguely remembers but can’t get out of his head? Will Dani ever tell him the truth?
One thing’s for sure, Dani WILL NOT let herself succumb and be one of those meaningless girls that pass through Jax’s womanizing revolving door. Not that she regrets their one unforgettable tryst of course...
And with fate pulling them together over and over in numerous occasions, and the two beginning to develop feelings for one another, will Jax break away from his jaded past that jump-started his notorious man-whoring antics and take a chance on the brunette beauty? Even if she is one of his sister's friends?
And what of his budding but yet questionable soccer career? Will he be able to change his ways and make it to play as a professional? And if so, what will Dani’s presence in his life mean for his future?
AS FOR DANI... Will she follow her mother's advice and take a chance on life and love and just be happy? Even if it means that means walking away from the man she loves?
Well guys...you’re in for a bumpy ride as emotions run high and stakes are even higher as Dani and Jax ride the highs and lows of life and realize the importance of: love, friendship, family, sacrifice, making choices and going for what you want, and the inevitable reality of death.
Can their budding love be what brings them together? Or ultimately be their undoing? And when a bad decision leads Jax potentially losing the girl who’s come to mean his everything, will their love withstand the odds stacked against them? Read and you will find out!
#A GREAT, GREAT addition to the Dearest series!! I’m still hoping for a Jenna and Ryan novella but am excited for how Daren’s story pans out!! Ugh!! He better dump that ‘slore’ Veronica!! My Gosh, Lex, you have ruined me on this series!! Damn you, woman! lol. And thank you for adding me in your thank yous! I was really excited about it. *hugs* :)
July 23, 2016
This book is another home run from Lex Martin! Ok, I know Jax is a soccer player but I'm not a soccer fan so I don't know all the lingo so baseball will have to do. ;)
From the moment I started this, I couldn't put it down. I literally read this in one sitting. Ok, seeing as it's Independence Day, my one sitting was slightly broken up by a freaked out dog and rude neighbors setting off illegal fireworks. But I digress. This book is seriously unputdownable.
I cannot begin to describe how much I loved Jax. I fell in love with him in the first book and was beyond happy when book two belonged to him. Trust me. Jax is beyond awesome. If you haven't read Dearest Clementine, you can't even begin to comprehend his awesomesauseness because you haven't read book 1. This book just expands on it and cements Jax in your heart. Well...he did in mine at least.
I really liked Dani. In Dearest Clementine, I liked her but didn't get a great sense of her as a character. She seemed like a nice girl (sorry Dani!) and someone that would be a great friend, but with so much going on in Clem's life, there wasn't a lot of time to really develop a new bff. But that definitely played out here. Dani fit right in with Clem and Jenna. She's someone that was totally believable. She could have seriously pulled an Athena and walked right out of the author's head fully formed...she was that real (although, with that said, if any character was going to walk into existence, I would humbly request it be Jax. <3 him totally).
Lex Martin has a real talent for bringing secondary characters to life. Because she introduced another character that I'm totally smitten with...Brady. I know he met someone in this book, but Ms. Martin, I beg of you, please write a book for him!
From the moment I started this, I couldn't put it down. I literally read this in one sitting. Ok, seeing as it's Independence Day, my one sitting was slightly broken up by a freaked out dog and rude neighbors setting off illegal fireworks. But I digress. This book is seriously unputdownable.
I cannot begin to describe how much I loved Jax. I fell in love with him in the first book and was beyond happy when book two belonged to him. Trust me. Jax is beyond awesome. If you haven't read Dearest Clementine, you can't even begin to comprehend his awesomesauseness because you haven't read book 1. This book just expands on it and cements Jax in your heart. Well...he did in mine at least.
I really liked Dani. In Dearest Clementine, I liked her but didn't get a great sense of her as a character. She seemed like a nice girl (sorry Dani!) and someone that would be a great friend, but with so much going on in Clem's life, there wasn't a lot of time to really develop a new bff. But that definitely played out here. Dani fit right in with Clem and Jenna. She's someone that was totally believable. She could have seriously pulled an Athena and walked right out of the author's head fully formed...she was that real (although, with that said, if any character was going to walk into existence, I would humbly request it be Jax. <3 him totally).
Lex Martin has a real talent for bringing secondary characters to life. Because she introduced another character that I'm totally smitten with...Brady. I know he met someone in this book, but Ms. Martin, I beg of you, please write a book for him!
July 18, 2014
Captivating. That’s the word that came to mind when I sat down to write this review - I had the immense pleasure of receiving an early copy of this book, and being a first time Lex Martin reader..I have to say I was unsure of what to expect. I jumped in with both feet and was not disappointed...more than that - I fell in love. Lex Martin, to borrow a line from you - you’re a category 5 hurricane of an author in my book. Just fucking phenomenal writing! I devoured this book, consumed it, lived and breathed it, completely adored it. It’s easy in my top 10 faves of the year.
Finding Dandelion swept me away on a tidal wave of emotions - I laughed out loud, I cried, I kicked and screamed and stomped my foot like an impatient child and most importantly, I met a new book boyfriend ;) Jax Avery ladies...padlock your panties - he’s coming for them and he’s got the keys that’ll rip those suckers clean off.
Dani Hart is my new book best friend - she’s a kind hearted, loving girl...with a side of sassiness that was begging to be released. I loved how easy going and laid back she was...she was that kickass chick that loves sports and could chill with the guys watching the game just as easy as she spent time with her girlfriends. After suffering a humiliating breakup, she isn’t looking to start anything new with anyone else. However, with the help of her brilliant best friend Travis, she begins to loosen up and put herself out there again. I mean really, her breakup with Reid was no big loss, so I was thrilled when she finally let her guard down again. The guy “couldn’t find her clit if it had a neon sign and balloons attached to it.” Loved that line - a bang on description for the douche that broke her heart.
Jax Avery. Rich, gorgeously sexy, cocky in that alpha way that I love, and a star soccer player on his way to turn pro. That’s not the only kind of player he is though, he also goes through the ladies faster than I can suck back my Monday morning coffee (which is pretty damn quick!). He lives his life with no regrets and is satisfied with his love life just the way it is.
These two meet on a quick passerby on the street and then again in a nightclub - on a night when Dani has decided to throw caution to the wind and let her inner devil come out to play. The result? An intensely hot hookup (almost) with our resident sexy boy - Jax. That scene is deliciously hot! Much to Dani’s horror, when they meet again - Jax has no recollection of who she is or of their intimate time together. To her, why would he remember her? He dates beautiful models and runs in a different circle. To Jax, she is so familiar, but he’s suffering the effects of a concussion and just can’t quite remember her...their chemistry and attraction is undeniable - yet the two of them avoid each other at all costs (insert foot stomping and cursing here).
Travis and Clementine play huge roles in this book as well. I loved how versatile Clem’s character is - she was snarky and fierce one second and loving and protective the next. I will definitely be picking up a copy of Dearest Clementine to read more about her story. Travis - he kept me laughing all throughout the book, he was always there for Dani and I hope to see more of him in any future releases.
Months after their disastrous hookup, Dani and Jax crash into each other again. Literally. Thus begins their love story...I thought their storyline was original and I enjoyed learning the depths of Jax’s character. He’s more than just a rich playboy - and I was glad that Lex let us discover the many sides of him as we watched him fall in love.
These two, I’ve never met a more stubborn pair! Their insecurities are their worst enemy and it is a wonder all the way to the end of what their outcome will be. Is Dani the girl to show Jax that love is real and can be more than just amazing hookups? Will Jax let his past ruin his future? You know what you need to do to find out…
Through this book, you will laugh, cry and fall in love. You’ll learn just how brave Dani really is. You will applaud at a funeral and bawl like a baby while doing it. Why? Its simple, this book is fucking incredible.
**5 Deliciously Wicked Stars**
xo Cassia
deliciouslywickedbooks.com
Finding Dandelion swept me away on a tidal wave of emotions - I laughed out loud, I cried, I kicked and screamed and stomped my foot like an impatient child and most importantly, I met a new book boyfriend ;) Jax Avery ladies...padlock your panties - he’s coming for them and he’s got the keys that’ll rip those suckers clean off.
Dani Hart is my new book best friend - she’s a kind hearted, loving girl...with a side of sassiness that was begging to be released. I loved how easy going and laid back she was...she was that kickass chick that loves sports and could chill with the guys watching the game just as easy as she spent time with her girlfriends. After suffering a humiliating breakup, she isn’t looking to start anything new with anyone else. However, with the help of her brilliant best friend Travis, she begins to loosen up and put herself out there again. I mean really, her breakup with Reid was no big loss, so I was thrilled when she finally let her guard down again. The guy “couldn’t find her clit if it had a neon sign and balloons attached to it.” Loved that line - a bang on description for the douche that broke her heart.
Jax Avery. Rich, gorgeously sexy, cocky in that alpha way that I love, and a star soccer player on his way to turn pro. That’s not the only kind of player he is though, he also goes through the ladies faster than I can suck back my Monday morning coffee (which is pretty damn quick!). He lives his life with no regrets and is satisfied with his love life just the way it is.
These two meet on a quick passerby on the street and then again in a nightclub - on a night when Dani has decided to throw caution to the wind and let her inner devil come out to play. The result? An intensely hot hookup (almost) with our resident sexy boy - Jax. That scene is deliciously hot! Much to Dani’s horror, when they meet again - Jax has no recollection of who she is or of their intimate time together. To her, why would he remember her? He dates beautiful models and runs in a different circle. To Jax, she is so familiar, but he’s suffering the effects of a concussion and just can’t quite remember her...their chemistry and attraction is undeniable - yet the two of them avoid each other at all costs (insert foot stomping and cursing here).
Travis and Clementine play huge roles in this book as well. I loved how versatile Clem’s character is - she was snarky and fierce one second and loving and protective the next. I will definitely be picking up a copy of Dearest Clementine to read more about her story. Travis - he kept me laughing all throughout the book, he was always there for Dani and I hope to see more of him in any future releases.
Months after their disastrous hookup, Dani and Jax crash into each other again. Literally. Thus begins their love story...I thought their storyline was original and I enjoyed learning the depths of Jax’s character. He’s more than just a rich playboy - and I was glad that Lex let us discover the many sides of him as we watched him fall in love.
These two, I’ve never met a more stubborn pair! Their insecurities are their worst enemy and it is a wonder all the way to the end of what their outcome will be. Is Dani the girl to show Jax that love is real and can be more than just amazing hookups? Will Jax let his past ruin his future? You know what you need to do to find out…
Through this book, you will laugh, cry and fall in love. You’ll learn just how brave Dani really is. You will applaud at a funeral and bawl like a baby while doing it. Why? Its simple, this book is fucking incredible.
**5 Deliciously Wicked Stars**
xo Cassia
deliciouslywickedbooks.com
July 17, 2014
Oh Jax, right here buddy...
There are so many "insert foot in ass" moments for our hero here, I am not even sure where to begin. I guess let's start with some background. And I will spoiler with details if you so choose to know more...
Jax is Clem's manwhore twin brother. Dani is Clem's roommate. Book starts out somewhat overlapping the 1st book at Jax and Clem's bday party. Dani and Jax hook up, he goes down on her, some stuff goes down , he has to leave but ends up getting hurt and forgets everything that happened that night.
Next time Dani seems him, his tongue is down this girls throat. Foot in ass moment #1. So of course Dani, doesn't say anything to him about it? He goes down on girls on the daily, so she just assumes it was nothing to him and is embarassed. And she doesn't want to hurt her relationship with Clem when he doesn't seem to remember how many licks it takes to get to the center of her Tootsie pop.
So circumstances put Dani and Jax together where they are stuck together on Thankgsiving break and sparks are flying. They are having some much fun with each other, he takes care of her. Thinking great, man whore redeemed, WRONG!! Foot in Ass Moment #2
Oh then his mommy gets involved too. His mom is a bitch by the way, so of course he takes everything she says at face value and doesn't bother to ask Dani whats going on. Foot in Ass Moment #3 .
Dani has to take off because her mom is very ill and only once Clem actually inserts her foot in his ass, does his head get dislodged from said ass and wakes up to realize what a dickturd he has been. Oh but not before...Foot in Ass Moment #4
So commence scene, I am a douche and must get her back. No groveling of course. Easy peasy!
To say I was disappointed with this book is an understatement. 2.5 Stars. Again no sex until the end, and with Jax's immature actions it felt very YA to me. And sorry for the wordiness, but after the glowing reviews, I thought I would give details for my fellow hardened GR bitches because I know this shit would not fly with alot of them. So I think I am done with this series unfortunately. Darren's book is next but I really don't care about his HEA after all the shit he did to Clem, and Clem is my #1 girl. I would only recommend this if you are an easy to forgive type of person, and like douchey assholes. Meee not so much.
There are so many "insert foot in ass" moments for our hero here, I am not even sure where to begin. I guess let's start with some background. And I will spoiler with details if you so choose to know more...
Jax is Clem's manwhore twin brother. Dani is Clem's roommate. Book starts out somewhat overlapping the 1st book at Jax and Clem's bday party. Dani and Jax hook up, he goes down on her, some stuff goes down , he has to leave but ends up getting hurt and forgets everything that happened that night.
Next time Dani seems him, his tongue is down this girls throat. Foot in ass moment #1. So of course Dani, doesn't say anything to him about it? He goes down on girls on the daily, so she just assumes it was nothing to him and is embarassed. And she doesn't want to hurt her relationship with Clem when he doesn't seem to remember how many licks it takes to get to the center of her Tootsie pop.
So circumstances put Dani and Jax together where they are stuck together on Thankgsiving break and sparks are flying. They are having some much fun with each other, he takes care of her. Thinking great, man whore redeemed, WRONG!! Foot in Ass Moment #2
Oh then his mommy gets involved too. His mom is a bitch by the way, so of course he takes everything she says at face value and doesn't bother to ask Dani whats going on. Foot in Ass Moment #3 .
Dani has to take off because her mom is very ill and only once Clem actually inserts her foot in his ass, does his head get dislodged from said ass and wakes up to realize what a dickturd he has been. Oh but not before...Foot in Ass Moment #4
So commence scene, I am a douche and must get her back. No groveling of course. Easy peasy!
To say I was disappointed with this book is an understatement. 2.5 Stars. Again no sex until the end, and with Jax's immature actions it felt very YA to me. And sorry for the wordiness, but after the glowing reviews, I thought I would give details for my fellow hardened GR bitches because I know this shit would not fly with alot of them. So I think I am done with this series unfortunately. Darren's book is next but I really don't care about his HEA after all the shit he did to Clem, and Clem is my #1 girl. I would only recommend this if you are an easy to forgive type of person, and like douchey assholes. Meee not so much.
July 16, 2014
★★★★ 4+ Stars!
"If you don't fight for what you love, don't cry for what you lose."
Finding Dandelion by Lex Martin is the second book in the Dearest-series but it can also be read as a standalone. Personally, I hadn't read book one, Dearest Clementine, yet and while I could follow the story perfectly, I think it might have been an even better reading experience after having read book one first. But still, that minor detail did not diminish the fact that author Lex Martin has managed to positively surprise me with her fun, thrilling and original NA novel.
Finding Dandelion is the story of Jax and Dani. Two complete opposites. At least at first sight. Dani is the school soccer star, and the ultimate player. He's the kind of guy who has girls falling all over him wherever he goes which is why Dani has always thought he's way out of her league. See, Dani is the kind of girl who just likes to blend in. She's a bit shy, lacks a bit of confident and she's set her own passions aside to follow her dad's rules when it came to choosing a major in college.
Still, one night of Dani deciding to be bold, sexy and reckless leads to her and Jax's explosive, passion-filled one night together that will change both of them forever. Even though, afterwards, Jax doesn't seem to "remember" what his memorable one night stand looked like. And to make matters worse, they keep running into each other all the time.
"If this is part of his game, I'm lost. Hook, line and sinker.”
After their one night together, things become a bit complicated. On one hand, Dani and Jax manage to build up a solid, carefree friendship but on the other hand both of them still have lingering memories from that one night that make both of them want more than being "just friends". But can they both let go of their fears and take a leap of faith in order to fight for what they truly want?
"I obviously care too much and I don't want to set myself up for heartbreak, and that boy has disaster written all over him like the S.S. Titanic.”
Overall, Finding Dandelion was a sweet, fun, very well written NA romance that I very much enjoyed reading. It had a bit of humor, some steamy scenes and a some highly emotional ones as well. Both Dani and Jax were ultimately very likeable characters who both had issues but who you couldn't help but root for in the end. Lex Martin is for sure an author I will be looking out for in the future and I'm already looking forward to the rest of this series!
**ARC provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review**
February 23, 2016
To receive an email when I release SHAMELESS on April 26 and get sneak peaks, sign up for my newsletter here: http://tiny.cc/zhizjx
I'll be giving away SIGNED copies of Dearest Series books and ARCs of SHAMELESS in my Facebook group. Here's the link if you want to check it out: http://on.fb.me/1oJN3mZ
Here's an excerpt from FINDING DANDELION if you haven't read it yet:
Music blares on the stereo behind me, but I’m too tired from this afternoon’s workout to budge. I look across the room and laugh.
“Dude, your sister is drunk.”
Sammy is slouched in the chair with her Magic 8 Ball, staring at it like it has all the answers. Her brother Nick, my roommate, barely spares a glance in her direction before he goes back to his cards.
“Don’t even think about fucking my sister, Jax.”
I punch him in the arm. “You’re an asshole. You know that there are two kinds of girls I never touch—little sisters and roommates.”
Nick’s eyebrow lifts. “I’ve seen your sister’s roommates. You’ve never gotten any of that action?”
Air rushes out of my closed mouth. “Are you kidding? She’d chop up my balls and feed them to me if I ever got close to one of them. She’s a little protective.” If nothing else, my twin is fierce.
I don’t mention that whole fiasco freshman year.
Sammy laughs hysterically at nothing in particular and shakes her Magic 8 Ball. “Is there one guy out there for me who will love me forever?” She peers into the black triangle at the bottom of the ball. Her face lights up as she reads, “It is decidedly so.”
I roll my eyes. Grabbing my beer, I take a drink and scroll through the texts on my phone. Kelly, Jamie, Emma. They’re hot. Katie. Lanie. They’re hotter.
My mind wanders to that girl outside the pizza parlor, the one who held the door open for me. I don’t know why I’m thinking about her. She was beautiful but looked young without any makeup. Kind of innocent and wide-eyed. No, definitely not my type.
I go back to the girls in my contacts list, but the sound of the water sloshing about in that dumb ball distracts me from planning my weekend.
“Sam, I hate to break it to you, but that’s all crap. I hope you know that ‘cause I like you too much to let you think there’s one perfect guy out there.” Nick’s little sister is a senior in high school, and she’s a pretty little thing, but she needs to wise up or some dick like me will break her heart. Only it won’t be me.
She ignores my comment and shakes the ball. “Is there one perfect girl out there for Jax Avery who will help him get past his man whoring ways?” She narrows her eyes as she reads the message that floats to the top, “It is decidedly so.”
Nick barks out a laugh. “How much did you drink? Dad is going to kick my ass if you go home tomorrow with a hangover.” He goes back to his hand and murmurs, “Cause you’d have to be drunk if you think that’s in the cards for Jax.”
Sammy hiccups and then groans like it hurt. She turns to me. “Doesn’t it feel empty? Don’t you want something with meaning?”
This girl needs to stop watching so many chick flicks.
I take a long drag of my beer. “It has meaning. It means I get laid with no strings. That’s a beautiful thing.”
She makes a face like I just took a crap in her dinner. I don’t have the energy to explain why relationships are such a bad idea, but if she were to take a two-minute look at my parents, she’d be on my side.
I reach over for a slice of pizza and ignore the hollowness in my chest. “What time is our team meeting tomorrow?”
Nick squints at me. “It’s at 3, but you should get there early. I hear Coach Patterson is a hard ass.”
“I can handle it.” I continue scrolling through my phone, contemplating how to spend the next 24 hours before soccer completely consumes my life. I’m thinking Katie tonight and maybe Lanie tomorrow afternoon.
As I’m about to look up Katie’s number, my screen lights up. Natasha. Even better. We’re friends with benefits. Minus the friends part.
“What are you doing tonight?”
Smiling, I write back. “Making you scream my name.”
Not a minute goes by before she responds. “Perfect. I’ll be by in 20.”
Sammy sighs at me from across the table like she knows what I’m planning. “Some day, a girl is going to kick you on your ass, Jax. I hope I’m here to see it.”
Why is a teenager lecturing me about my sex life?
“In your dreams, kid. I don’t get attached.”
I learned that lesson a long time ago. Girls are like beer. Here to bookend the important things.
You can read additional excerpts on my blog at www.lexmartinwrites.com/my-books/
Finding Dandelion Lex Martin
I'll be giving away SIGNED copies of Dearest Series books and ARCs of SHAMELESS in my Facebook group. Here's the link if you want to check it out: http://on.fb.me/1oJN3mZ
Here's an excerpt from FINDING DANDELION if you haven't read it yet:
Music blares on the stereo behind me, but I’m too tired from this afternoon’s workout to budge. I look across the room and laugh.
“Dude, your sister is drunk.”
Sammy is slouched in the chair with her Magic 8 Ball, staring at it like it has all the answers. Her brother Nick, my roommate, barely spares a glance in her direction before he goes back to his cards.
“Don’t even think about fucking my sister, Jax.”
I punch him in the arm. “You’re an asshole. You know that there are two kinds of girls I never touch—little sisters and roommates.”
Nick’s eyebrow lifts. “I’ve seen your sister’s roommates. You’ve never gotten any of that action?”
Air rushes out of my closed mouth. “Are you kidding? She’d chop up my balls and feed them to me if I ever got close to one of them. She’s a little protective.” If nothing else, my twin is fierce.
I don’t mention that whole fiasco freshman year.
Sammy laughs hysterically at nothing in particular and shakes her Magic 8 Ball. “Is there one guy out there for me who will love me forever?” She peers into the black triangle at the bottom of the ball. Her face lights up as she reads, “It is decidedly so.”
I roll my eyes. Grabbing my beer, I take a drink and scroll through the texts on my phone. Kelly, Jamie, Emma. They’re hot. Katie. Lanie. They’re hotter.
My mind wanders to that girl outside the pizza parlor, the one who held the door open for me. I don’t know why I’m thinking about her. She was beautiful but looked young without any makeup. Kind of innocent and wide-eyed. No, definitely not my type.
I go back to the girls in my contacts list, but the sound of the water sloshing about in that dumb ball distracts me from planning my weekend.
“Sam, I hate to break it to you, but that’s all crap. I hope you know that ‘cause I like you too much to let you think there’s one perfect guy out there.” Nick’s little sister is a senior in high school, and she’s a pretty little thing, but she needs to wise up or some dick like me will break her heart. Only it won’t be me.
She ignores my comment and shakes the ball. “Is there one perfect girl out there for Jax Avery who will help him get past his man whoring ways?” She narrows her eyes as she reads the message that floats to the top, “It is decidedly so.”
Nick barks out a laugh. “How much did you drink? Dad is going to kick my ass if you go home tomorrow with a hangover.” He goes back to his hand and murmurs, “Cause you’d have to be drunk if you think that’s in the cards for Jax.”
Sammy hiccups and then groans like it hurt. She turns to me. “Doesn’t it feel empty? Don’t you want something with meaning?”
This girl needs to stop watching so many chick flicks.
I take a long drag of my beer. “It has meaning. It means I get laid with no strings. That’s a beautiful thing.”
She makes a face like I just took a crap in her dinner. I don’t have the energy to explain why relationships are such a bad idea, but if she were to take a two-minute look at my parents, she’d be on my side.
I reach over for a slice of pizza and ignore the hollowness in my chest. “What time is our team meeting tomorrow?”
Nick squints at me. “It’s at 3, but you should get there early. I hear Coach Patterson is a hard ass.”
“I can handle it.” I continue scrolling through my phone, contemplating how to spend the next 24 hours before soccer completely consumes my life. I’m thinking Katie tonight and maybe Lanie tomorrow afternoon.
As I’m about to look up Katie’s number, my screen lights up. Natasha. Even better. We’re friends with benefits. Minus the friends part.
“What are you doing tonight?”
Smiling, I write back. “Making you scream my name.”
Not a minute goes by before she responds. “Perfect. I’ll be by in 20.”
Sammy sighs at me from across the table like she knows what I’m planning. “Some day, a girl is going to kick you on your ass, Jax. I hope I’m here to see it.”
Why is a teenager lecturing me about my sex life?
“In your dreams, kid. I don’t get attached.”
I learned that lesson a long time ago. Girls are like beer. Here to bookend the important things.
You can read additional excerpts on my blog at www.lexmartinwrites.com/my-books/
Finding Dandelion Lex Martin
December 31, 2014
Title: Finding Dandelion (Dearest #2)
Series: Yes (Each can be read as standalone)
Author: Lex Martin
Release Date: July 11th, 2014
Rating: 4.5 "Out-Skanking" Stars
Cliffhanger: No
HEA:
Jax Avery is handsome, he's rich and he can get any girl he wants. Girls want him and Boys applaud him. He's a budding soccer star, the next big thing. Toeing the line to keep his place on the team all he has to do is keep his nose clean and head in the game, except he doesn't seem to care.
Dani Hart is a hard worker, non risk taker, self confessed pushover and "All around nice girl" she's playing it safe and has a right future ahead of her, except she just feels lost.
Tired of feeling this way, she's decided this is going to be her "year of firsts" Armed with her new tattoo and to-do list to keep her on track, she's determined to "live without regret."
There first interaction is fleeting but the attraction is instant and try though he might not to care, he's mind can't help but wonder about her. She does the same, concentrating on school, on being a good friend, on anything that will keep her mind from wandering to all that is Jax. There second meeting is at a club where Jax is celebrating his Birthday, they have what I can only be described as a crazy, intense encounter and without revealing anything it really "kicks off" from there.
Jax did act like a Jack ass at times but actually I couldn't bring myself to be angry with him once parts of his story were revealed. A lot of his behaviours stem from past betrayals and underneath he doesn't consider himself worthy of Dani. I definitely think he more than proves his worth, he was there for Dani during some of her most difficult times and really comes into his own.
They both had a vulnerability to them which I found endearing and I'm not going to lie I teared up numerous times. The connection and intimacy they experienced was enviable, as a reader it nice to be on their journey as they both found home and something to care about in each other.
He stares long and hard into my eyes before he pulls my mouth to his for a gentle kiss, "We stay together." He holds my face with both of his hands. "Because you're what makes me want anything else."
This was such a wonderful story and had everything I look for in a good read. It was happy, sad, angsty, funny, sexy and I adored it! Am I hooked on this series?
~ARC kindly provided by the author in exchange for an honest review. Thank you.~
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July 14, 2014
**ARC provided in exchange for an honest review**
Title: Finding Dandelion
Series:Dearest #2
Author: Lex Martin
Release Date: July 11, 2014
Rating:4 stars
Cliffhanger:No
HEA:
Lex Martin is a standout, new and fresh author that has a lot to offer the romance world. I fell in love with her writing in Dearest Clementine and now with her latest release, Finding Dandelion, I'm quickly making my way towards auto-add with all her books-no question. She has the ability to create characters that you love, characters that you love despite their flaws, and characters that will leave you emotional and happy you got to spend a little bit of your time with them. If these first two books are an example of what she can give us, I can't wait to see what she has in store for us in the future.
Continuing on with this series, Lex has overlapped some of the events from Dearest Clementine giving us a fresh perspective and a better understanding of her Main characters who were previously secondary characters in the last book. We knew that Jax was Clementine's brother who was a major player, good looking, the school soccer star, and a little clueless when it came to what was going on in his sister's life. He may have dropped the ball when it came to being a supportive brother, but it wasn't intentional and he's making it his goal to make up for lost time. You can see that he has a deep affection for his sister and his heart's in the right place, but in the past has been selfishly focused on himself.
Dani is the good girl who's ultimate problems are being "too nice" and letting people take advantage of her, not being able to confront people, and having the inability to live life with no regrets.
She's stuck trying to take the safe path, the path that she has no passion for simply because she's scared to take risks. She's doing what she thinks she "should" be doing rather than what makes her happy. She's a talented artist but she's stuck in a business major and feeling guilty that she's not back home taking care of her mother who's recovering from being ill.
One night, Dani decides to throw caution out the window and be bold, sexy, and go dancing at a club. She forces herself out of her shell and when she does-she collides with confident, sexy Jax and she's not prepared for the feelings they stir in each other.
He's blown away by her as well and can't believe how affected he is by her-she's like no one he's ever seen before.
She's gorgeous, petite with long, dark hair, smooth pale skin, and the face of a fucking angel. My heart hammers in my chest. Actually hammers.
Their first meeting was thrilling and their attraction flies off the pages. It pulls you into the story effectively preventing you from being able to put this addictive story down. I loved seeing this major player get so affected by quiet, unassuming Dani. He's used to getting model gorgeous girls with no effort and Dani is far from that. She's beautiful but in an understated way. She simply doesn't focus on her outward appearance. And she's anything but easy.
When something happens that night, Dani is left questioning his real feelings for her, and he's left with a huge crush that seems to be unreciprocated. She doesn't want to risk her heart to this infamous manwhore-that's not in her to do.
They start on a two sided friendship. On one side, they get along, are comfortable with each other, and care about each other. On the other side, they're hiding deep feelings of attraction and want and neither knows how to cross the line.
There are lots of ups and downs, anticipation and secret feelings, great humor, and tears shed. It's about growing confident in yourself and reaching for the things that make you most happy with no regrets. I really enjoyed this couple. They were sweet, vulnerable, and you loved them despite their issues and insecurities. I can't wait for the next book in the series.
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Title: Finding Dandelion
Series:Dearest #2
Author: Lex Martin
Release Date: July 11, 2014
Rating:4 stars
Cliffhanger:No
HEA:
Lex Martin is a standout, new and fresh author that has a lot to offer the romance world. I fell in love with her writing in Dearest Clementine and now with her latest release, Finding Dandelion, I'm quickly making my way towards auto-add with all her books-no question. She has the ability to create characters that you love, characters that you love despite their flaws, and characters that will leave you emotional and happy you got to spend a little bit of your time with them. If these first two books are an example of what she can give us, I can't wait to see what she has in store for us in the future.
Continuing on with this series, Lex has overlapped some of the events from Dearest Clementine giving us a fresh perspective and a better understanding of her Main characters who were previously secondary characters in the last book. We knew that Jax was Clementine's brother who was a major player, good looking, the school soccer star, and a little clueless when it came to what was going on in his sister's life. He may have dropped the ball when it came to being a supportive brother, but it wasn't intentional and he's making it his goal to make up for lost time. You can see that he has a deep affection for his sister and his heart's in the right place, but in the past has been selfishly focused on himself.
Dani is the good girl who's ultimate problems are being "too nice" and letting people take advantage of her, not being able to confront people, and having the inability to live life with no regrets.
She's stuck trying to take the safe path, the path that she has no passion for simply because she's scared to take risks. She's doing what she thinks she "should" be doing rather than what makes her happy. She's a talented artist but she's stuck in a business major and feeling guilty that she's not back home taking care of her mother who's recovering from being ill.
One night, Dani decides to throw caution out the window and be bold, sexy, and go dancing at a club. She forces herself out of her shell and when she does-she collides with confident, sexy Jax and she's not prepared for the feelings they stir in each other.
He's blown away by her as well and can't believe how affected he is by her-she's like no one he's ever seen before.
She's gorgeous, petite with long, dark hair, smooth pale skin, and the face of a fucking angel. My heart hammers in my chest. Actually hammers.
Their first meeting was thrilling and their attraction flies off the pages. It pulls you into the story effectively preventing you from being able to put this addictive story down. I loved seeing this major player get so affected by quiet, unassuming Dani. He's used to getting model gorgeous girls with no effort and Dani is far from that. She's beautiful but in an understated way. She simply doesn't focus on her outward appearance. And she's anything but easy.
When something happens that night, Dani is left questioning his real feelings for her, and he's left with a huge crush that seems to be unreciprocated. She doesn't want to risk her heart to this infamous manwhore-that's not in her to do.
They start on a two sided friendship. On one side, they get along, are comfortable with each other, and care about each other. On the other side, they're hiding deep feelings of attraction and want and neither knows how to cross the line.
There are lots of ups and downs, anticipation and secret feelings, great humor, and tears shed. It's about growing confident in yourself and reaching for the things that make you most happy with no regrets. I really enjoyed this couple. They were sweet, vulnerable, and you loved them despite their issues and insecurities. I can't wait for the next book in the series.
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July 16, 2014
4.5 stars
March 23, 2015
4.5 Happy Dani Stars
Lex Martini is slowly making her way on my favorite author list. If you are looking for a sweet, fast and easy read, then Finding Dandelion is for you.
Summary
Jax and Dani are completely opposites. Jax is rich and a player. He doesn’t answer to anyone but himself. Dani just got out of a relationship and created a bucket list of things to do to get her back on track. She got a tattoo and now she wants a one night stand.
Jax and Dani meet. It was meant to be a one night thing, but somehow their social circles collide.
Dani
I like Dani. I wanted to be her friend. I also have this thing with heroines and lists. Call me crazy, but I’m obsessed with a bucket list. It wasn’t the focal point of the read, but it was cute. I liked how her ex made her rethink her love life. I also loved she wanted a one night stand, even though the idea of it makes her sick.
Jax
I have this thing with Heroes name Jax, let’s just say I haven’t been disappointed. Jax is the spoiled trust fund kid. We got a little glimpse of him in Finding Clementine and I have to say, he wasn’t my favorite character, but after reading Finding Dandelion, you will love him. He’s a player, but he’s too sexy to not love.
Overall
Dani is very insecure with herself because of her ex. Jax and Dani meet a club and have a crazy make-out session. They are about to move to the next level, but get separated. Dani thinks Jax left her for another woman. It’s a slight miscommunication, but it makes for such a great read! Because days later, Dani realizes Jax is Clementine’s brother and Clementine is Dani’s suitemate. Oh the drama.
Finding Dandelion is lighter than Finding Clementine, but the heroes are completely different. As much as I love Gavin, oh Jax, he will put you through the ringer. There’s so much tension and push back on Dani’s part, you will be rooting for them to get together!
Overall, it’s a cute read and I was consumed from page one. If you like the series, you will not be disappointed.
REVIEW | AMAZON
AMAZON
Lex Martini is slowly making her way on my favorite author list. If you are looking for a sweet, fast and easy read, then Finding Dandelion is for you.
Summary
Jax and Dani are completely opposites. Jax is rich and a player. He doesn’t answer to anyone but himself. Dani just got out of a relationship and created a bucket list of things to do to get her back on track. She got a tattoo and now she wants a one night stand.
Jax and Dani meet. It was meant to be a one night thing, but somehow their social circles collide.
Dani
I like Dani. I wanted to be her friend. I also have this thing with heroines and lists. Call me crazy, but I’m obsessed with a bucket list. It wasn’t the focal point of the read, but it was cute. I liked how her ex made her rethink her love life. I also loved she wanted a one night stand, even though the idea of it makes her sick.
Jax
I have this thing with Heroes name Jax, let’s just say I haven’t been disappointed. Jax is the spoiled trust fund kid. We got a little glimpse of him in Finding Clementine and I have to say, he wasn’t my favorite character, but after reading Finding Dandelion, you will love him. He’s a player, but he’s too sexy to not love.
Overall
Dani is very insecure with herself because of her ex. Jax and Dani meet a club and have a crazy make-out session. They are about to move to the next level, but get separated. Dani thinks Jax left her for another woman. It’s a slight miscommunication, but it makes for such a great read! Because days later, Dani realizes Jax is Clementine’s brother and Clementine is Dani’s suitemate. Oh the drama.
Finding Dandelion is lighter than Finding Clementine, but the heroes are completely different. As much as I love Gavin, oh Jax, he will put you through the ringer. There’s so much tension and push back on Dani’s part, you will be rooting for them to get together!
Overall, it’s a cute read and I was consumed from page one. If you like the series, you will not be disappointed.
REVIEW | AMAZON
AMAZON
May 17, 2017
Finding Dandelion es el segundo de los tres libros ( por el momento ) que forman la serie Dearest de la autora Lex Martin y narra la historia de Jax ( hermano de Clem, del libro anterior ) y Dani, una de las compañeras de piso de Clem.
Dearest Clemmentine se convirtio en uno de mis libros favoritos de todos los tiempos, ademas de tener varios de los mejores personajes literarios que he conocido, no solo por lo reales y bien desarrollados que eran sino por que transmitian muchisimo mas sentimiento que muchos de los otros libros que he leido.
Finding Dandelion no fue muy diferente, una historia tierna, muy bien desarrollada, realista y llena de escenas divertidas y dulces.
Jax y Dani estan desde ahora en mi lista de mejores parejas literarias que he conocido, me encanto absolutamente todo de ellos, desde su relacion hasta lo increibles que eran como personajes independientes.
Lex Martin es una autora increible y me muero de ganas de leer mas sobre ella, espero pronto poder leer el tercer libro y que la autora continue escribiendo mas libros de esta serie.
4.75 Estrellas!!!
August 4, 2016
So....I've read this the day before reading Cursed Child and I sadly forgot all about my thoughts about this. Shame on me.
July 27, 2016
Tropes: 24
This quote sums up the entire book. Because, even after everything, the hero is still an asshole.
Finding Dandelion is the second book in the Dearest series, and this time the story focuses on Jax, the heroine from the first book's brother, and Dani, one of the roommates (of the previous heroine's). The second book, much like the first, falls due to its lack of character development and a lack of plot.
Jax meets Dani at a party, unaware that Dani is his sister's new roommate, and Dani is unaware that Jax is her new roommate's brother. Dani, feeling betrayed after her recent breakup decides she's willing to hook up with someone. They see each other at the party and are drawn to each other. When Dani uses Jax to avoid confrotnatoin with her ex, they make out and it soon turns into more. They are interrupted before they go "all the way", and the next time Dani meets Jax, he seems to have no memory of them ever meeting. After hearing Clem, Jax's sister, comment on the girls Jax usually hooks up with, Dani is horrified and doesn't want to be "one of those girls", and says nothing to Jax or Clem. But Jax is attracted to Dani, is intrugied by her, and simply can't get her out of his head. And so their story begin.
Just like the first book, there is basically no plot. It's all focused on how Jax is in constant heat and wants Dani. The other part of the time (Dani's POV) is all about not wanting to be "one of those girls", of still wanting Jax, and not being sure why Jax doesn't appear to remember their night together. It doesn't help that for the first 30% of the book, the author, for some reason, felt the need to rehash part of the first book, with no alteration (apart from being in Jax's and Dani's heads). It adds absolutely nothing to the plot, if anything, it's confusing to the overall story. What did it matter? Why did it matter? It didn't. The story should've started somewhere around the 30% mark, and not sooner. (Of course, the initial meeting could've been there, but it could've replaced the utterly useless prologue this book does have.)
Back to the characters: here's how remembarable they are. I had to look up Dani's name (even though it's hinted at in the title). I had to go through all my updates (and notes) to remember her personality (which she has none). I couldn't even remember what the "big misunderstanding" was. I couldn't remember the part with her mother (which, honestly, is more due to the writing being unable to provoke a single emotion). What my updates (and notes) reminded me was that Dani is a hypocrite. She's sexist. She looks down on women who engages in causal sex.
She's catty. She's jealous. She shames the women who so much as looks at Jax. Of course, she herself is virginal, but the of course changes when she get's a taste of the hero's junk.
Though, even if Dani had been a memorable character, had some personality, the love interest alone is able to drag this book down to one star.
He's lovely, isn't he? Jax is a sexist, misogynist asshole. He admits himself that he's an asshole. He has zero character development. He sexist in the beginning, he's sexist in the end. He shames women in the beginning, he shames them at the end. In his world, there are two types of women: women for sex, and women to marry (kinda).
Women are to use for a man's pleasure. Because girls should learn to please a man in school, whether they want to or not.
The worst part is that there is no reason for Jax to see women this way. Sure, his mother was absent, but he had a sister who was nothing like her mother. He had one girlfriend in the past who treated him badly. Still, it does not excuse why he'd grow up to view women this way. So, basically, he's just an asshole for no reason. The fact that he uses abuse (see quote above) when thinking about sex says a lot about his view on women (and sex). And, as said, Jax is never called out on it, and he has the same personality throughout the book. Of course, Dani is the exception, the special snowflake that can tame this beast.
Just like in the first book, the friends are not friends. For one thing, we have Jenna (from the first book) spilling secrets all over the place without telling her supposedly best friend. She spills the secret to (practically) a stranger. We have Travis, the stereotypical gay best friend, whose purpose is to push Dani to meet guys.
Basically, this book suffers the same issues the first on did: poor character development, weak plot, sexism, and shaming. The first book I said that the writing was good, decent. In this, there's no emotion provoked by the writing, it's repetitive, and at times awkward.
“See, there are happily ever afters. Even for assholes like me.”
This quote sums up the entire book. Because, even after everything, the hero is still an asshole.
Finding Dandelion is the second book in the Dearest series, and this time the story focuses on Jax, the heroine from the first book's brother, and Dani, one of the roommates (of the previous heroine's). The second book, much like the first, falls due to its lack of character development and a lack of plot.
Jax meets Dani at a party, unaware that Dani is his sister's new roommate, and Dani is unaware that Jax is her new roommate's brother. Dani, feeling betrayed after her recent breakup decides she's willing to hook up with someone. They see each other at the party and are drawn to each other. When Dani uses Jax to avoid confrotnatoin with her ex, they make out and it soon turns into more. They are interrupted before they go "all the way", and the next time Dani meets Jax, he seems to have no memory of them ever meeting. After hearing Clem, Jax's sister, comment on the girls Jax usually hooks up with, Dani is horrified and doesn't want to be "one of those girls", and says nothing to Jax or Clem. But Jax is attracted to Dani, is intrugied by her, and simply can't get her out of his head. And so their story begin.
Just like the first book, there is basically no plot. It's all focused on how Jax is in constant heat and wants Dani. The other part of the time (Dani's POV) is all about not wanting to be "one of those girls", of still wanting Jax, and not being sure why Jax doesn't appear to remember their night together. It doesn't help that for the first 30% of the book, the author, for some reason, felt the need to rehash part of the first book, with no alteration (apart from being in Jax's and Dani's heads). It adds absolutely nothing to the plot, if anything, it's confusing to the overall story. What did it matter? Why did it matter? It didn't. The story should've started somewhere around the 30% mark, and not sooner. (Of course, the initial meeting could've been there, but it could've replaced the utterly useless prologue this book does have.)
Back to the characters: here's how remembarable they are. I had to look up Dani's name (even though it's hinted at in the title). I had to go through all my updates (and notes) to remember her personality (which she has none). I couldn't even remember what the "big misunderstanding" was. I couldn't remember the part with her mother (which, honestly, is more due to the writing being unable to provoke a single emotion). What my updates (and notes) reminded me was that Dani is a hypocrite. She's sexist. She looks down on women who engages in causal sex.
The girl who grew up watching old Madonna videos wants to embrace my sexual freedom and treat last night cavalierly, but the small part of me who someday wants the house, kids and white picket fence knows what I did last night is not how I’ll achieve those ends.
She's catty. She's jealous. She shames the women who so much as looks at Jax. Of course, she herself is virginal, but the of course changes when she get's a taste of the hero's junk.
That would be the alien who took over my body and turned me into a sex-craved maniac.
Though, even if Dani had been a memorable character, had some personality, the love interest alone is able to drag this book down to one star.
I think if I fuck her, I’ll somehow tarnish her. Because that’s all this’ll be, sex in a dark club, and she’s not the kind of girl I want to use and abuse for one night.
He's lovely, isn't he? Jax is a sexist, misogynist asshole. He admits himself that he's an asshole. He has zero character development. He sexist in the beginning, he's sexist in the end. He shames women in the beginning, he shames them at the end. In his world, there are two types of women: women for sex, and women to marry (kinda).
She’s pretty in a been-there-done-that sort of way.
Women are to use for a man's pleasure. Because girls should learn to please a man in school, whether they want to or not.
Not every girl is good at giving head, but it’s something that should be taught in school along with making pancakes.
The worst part is that there is no reason for Jax to see women this way. Sure, his mother was absent, but he had a sister who was nothing like her mother. He had one girlfriend in the past who treated him badly. Still, it does not excuse why he'd grow up to view women this way. So, basically, he's just an asshole for no reason. The fact that he uses abuse (see quote above) when thinking about sex says a lot about his view on women (and sex). And, as said, Jax is never called out on it, and he has the same personality throughout the book. Of course, Dani is the exception, the special snowflake that can tame this beast.
Just like in the first book, the friends are not friends. For one thing, we have Jenna (from the first book) spilling secrets all over the place without telling her supposedly best friend. She spills the secret to (practically) a stranger. We have Travis, the stereotypical gay best friend, whose purpose is to push Dani to meet guys.
Basically, this book suffers the same issues the first on did: poor character development, weak plot, sexism, and shaming. The first book I said that the writing was good, decent. In this, there's no emotion provoked by the writing, it's repetitive, and at times awkward.
July 23, 2014
★ ★ 4.5 STARS ★ ★
This was a perfect example of a New Adult, Contemporary Romance book. There wasn't an over the top amount of angst, drama or annoying characters, and an overall well paced story that kept me engaged (unlike a few others books I was reading before this.) This was basically a little fluffy, yet sexy New Adult read that I literally flew through in a few hours and absolutely adored! Super stoked for Daren's story in 'Kissing Madeline.' :)
And can we just take a minute for the cover. Its so gorgeous! That earns itself half a star! ♥
xxx
This was a perfect example of a New Adult, Contemporary Romance book. There wasn't an over the top amount of angst, drama or annoying characters, and an overall well paced story that kept me engaged (unlike a few others books I was reading before this.) This was basically a little fluffy, yet sexy New Adult read that I literally flew through in a few hours and absolutely adored! Super stoked for Daren's story in 'Kissing Madeline.' :)
And can we just take a minute for the cover. Its so gorgeous! That earns itself half a star! ♥
xxx
November 6, 2016
2.5 stars
Everything is very mediocre. No plot, no character development, too many misunderstandings with no communication whatsoever. This book wasn't for me sadly.
Everything is very mediocre. No plot, no character development, too many misunderstandings with no communication whatsoever. This book wasn't for me sadly.
August 28, 2020
4-4.25 stars
I really enjoyed Finding Dandelion - more than I thought I would. I shouldn’t be surprised, I loved Dearest Clementine, but I suppose it was because Dani didn’t quite resonate with me as a side character. Now I won’t deny there was an instance or two I would’ve liked to seen Jax grow a pair 🙄. But I still loved them both, even with those couple sticking points with him. Jax & Dani were sweet & sexy in equal measure.
Knowing what he did to Clem, I’m still kinda pissed at Darren. I know he’s the hero in the next & he’s sort of been redeemed, so we’ll see if LM can change my mind. I wonder if she knew writing DC that he’d be the hero later in the series. She gave good cause not to like him.
** possibly more later **
I really enjoyed Finding Dandelion - more than I thought I would. I shouldn’t be surprised, I loved Dearest Clementine, but I suppose it was because Dani didn’t quite resonate with me as a side character. Now I won’t deny there was an instance or two I would’ve liked to seen Jax grow a pair 🙄. But I still loved them both, even with those couple sticking points with him. Jax & Dani were sweet & sexy in equal measure.
Knowing what he did to Clem, I’m still kinda pissed at Darren. I know he’s the hero in the next & he’s sort of been redeemed, so we’ll see if LM can change my mind. I wonder if she knew writing DC that he’d be the hero later in the series. She gave good cause not to like him.
** possibly more later **
July 18, 2014
ARC provided by author in exchange of honest review
☆☆☆☆☆ 4.5 DANDELION STARS☆☆☆☆☆
Finding Dandelion by Lex Martin was simply beautiful and touching. I am blown away with Ms. Martin’s storytelling. In this unforgettable and uplifting book, Ms. Martin reminds us all to LIVE, LOVE, & LAUGH. And most importantly if you are going to curse, to say it like you mean it. So Ms. Martin I just wanted to tell you Finding Dandelion was FUCKING BEAUTIFUL!!!!! Finding Dandelion will capture and tug all the heart strings. Ms. Martin will make you believe to kiss slowly, love deeply, forgive quickly, take chances, give everything, live life to the fullest, and leave no regrets.
Lets face it, there is no such thing as a perfect life. And sometimes it takes someone sick or dying to make us finally realize how short and precious life is. For Dani Hart, it took her sick mother to finally make her realize that she needs to LIVE for herself and find true happiness and love. Literally, Dani took a HIT that knocked her on her ass where she comes face to face with the only man who has completely invaded her thoughts. Manwhore Jax Avery could have any woman he wants. He is sexy, confident, charming and wealthy. With flocks of rotating woman, he could have his pick but there was only woman he wanted and that was Dani. Will #ManWhoreJax be Dani’s #PrinceCharming? Or will Dani find herself as another notch on his bedpost?
Lex Martin is indeed a storyteller and Finding Dandelion is another perfect example of her spellbinding ways. I literally found myself consumed and devouring this book in one sitting. I cried, laughed and swooned and was left with a big fat smile on my face after reading this book. Ms. Martin brought life to Dani, Jax, Travis, Clementine, Jenna and Ryan. These were not just fictional characters but characters that felt real. The raw emotional transformation of each of these beloved characters were felt throughout the book. What I truly love about this book was how real the storyline felt. Life is not perfect. The truth hurts. Nothing in life is full of hearts and rainbows. And sometimes life is unfair and sucks. But the beauty of life, is the promise of tomorrow. The greatest gift in life are second chances. And Finding Dandelion reminds us all that life is full of hope, love, and endless possibilities. We can either stay in the dark or we can take that chance and find light by dreaming big and letting love in. Lex Martin did an amazing job incorporating love, sadness, heartbreak, loss, happiness and second chances in Finding Dandelion. This book is one of those stories that must be experienced. It will take its readers on an emotional journey of self discovering.
What can I say but Finding Dandelion was #Beautiful #Touching and #AMustRead !!
Lex Martin
☆☆☆☆☆ 4.5 DANDELION STARS☆☆☆☆☆
Finding Dandelion by Lex Martin was simply beautiful and touching. I am blown away with Ms. Martin’s storytelling. In this unforgettable and uplifting book, Ms. Martin reminds us all to LIVE, LOVE, & LAUGH. And most importantly if you are going to curse, to say it like you mean it. So Ms. Martin I just wanted to tell you Finding Dandelion was FUCKING BEAUTIFUL!!!!! Finding Dandelion will capture and tug all the heart strings. Ms. Martin will make you believe to kiss slowly, love deeply, forgive quickly, take chances, give everything, live life to the fullest, and leave no regrets.
Lets face it, there is no such thing as a perfect life. And sometimes it takes someone sick or dying to make us finally realize how short and precious life is. For Dani Hart, it took her sick mother to finally make her realize that she needs to LIVE for herself and find true happiness and love. Literally, Dani took a HIT that knocked her on her ass where she comes face to face with the only man who has completely invaded her thoughts. Manwhore Jax Avery could have any woman he wants. He is sexy, confident, charming and wealthy. With flocks of rotating woman, he could have his pick but there was only woman he wanted and that was Dani. Will #ManWhoreJax be Dani’s #PrinceCharming? Or will Dani find herself as another notch on his bedpost?
Lex Martin is indeed a storyteller and Finding Dandelion is another perfect example of her spellbinding ways. I literally found myself consumed and devouring this book in one sitting. I cried, laughed and swooned and was left with a big fat smile on my face after reading this book. Ms. Martin brought life to Dani, Jax, Travis, Clementine, Jenna and Ryan. These were not just fictional characters but characters that felt real. The raw emotional transformation of each of these beloved characters were felt throughout the book. What I truly love about this book was how real the storyline felt. Life is not perfect. The truth hurts. Nothing in life is full of hearts and rainbows. And sometimes life is unfair and sucks. But the beauty of life, is the promise of tomorrow. The greatest gift in life are second chances. And Finding Dandelion reminds us all that life is full of hope, love, and endless possibilities. We can either stay in the dark or we can take that chance and find light by dreaming big and letting love in. Lex Martin did an amazing job incorporating love, sadness, heartbreak, loss, happiness and second chances in Finding Dandelion. This book is one of those stories that must be experienced. It will take its readers on an emotional journey of self discovering.
What can I say but Finding Dandelion was #Beautiful #Touching and #AMustRead !!
Lex Martin
May 25, 2016
I am OBSESSED with the Dearest Series. I immediately bought Book 2 and 3 after reading Book 1. Dani is so much more than meets the eye - we didn't get to learn so much about Dani in book 1 so I wasn't sure what to expect. Dani is charming and talented - it's no wonder Jax falls for her! Jax is the typical playboy who falls for the good girl. Without giving away too much - this is a story of heartbreak, love and second chances. You will NOT be able to put this down :) !
December 13, 2021
Dani ist eigentlich nicht so der Typ für One-Night-Stands, aber als sie Fußballstar Jax Avery trifft, kann sie ihm nicht widerstehen und sie haben diesen Moment im Club, in dem sie sich kennenlernen. Doch plötzlich verschwindet Jax ohne ein Wort und Dani versteht nicht, was geschehen ist. Und als sie sich das nächste Mal begegnen, stellt sie zwei Dinge fest: Er ist der Bruder ihrer Mitbewohnerin, der für seine wechselnden Partner bekannt ist und vor dem sie schon gewarnt wurde. Und er erkennt Dani nicht!
Protagonisten
Dani, eigentlich Danielle, aber ich dachte erst, sie hieße Dandelion, aber egal, studiert BWL, obwohl sie künstlerisch sehr begabt ist. Sie fürchtet, dass sie mit Kunst nicht genug verdienen würde und sie braucht Geld, da ihre Mutter krank ist und sie immer eine Rückkehr des Krebses befürchten. Sie hat einige Sorgen, darum kümmern sich ihre Freunde darum, dass sie auch ein wenig Spaß am Leben hat und bringen sie zu verrückten Aktionen, durch die sie auch Jax auffällt.
Eigentlich begann sie gerade, sich mit Clementine, Jax' Schwester, anzufreunden, doch nun befürchtet sie, was Clem von ihr halten würde, wenn sie von der Sache erfährt. Ihr eigener Stolz ist verletzt, da der heißeste Typ sie vergessen hat und sich stattdessen mit Models trifft - vor ihren Augen. Durch diese anderen Frauen, die perfekt aussehen, hat sie selbst das Gefühl, nicht gut genug zu sein, nicht interessant genug. Ich fand schon traurig, dass sie so wenig von sich hält, obwohl sie so ein nettes und entzückendes Mädchen ist.
Jax hat seine vielen Frauengeschichten, aber durch seine eigene Perspektive wissen wir, dass er einen weichen Kern hat und nicht immer ein Idiot ist. Von den ganzen Mädels ist er inzwischen selbst etwas genervt und ist nicht mehr so unreif wie früher. Von Dani ist er ziemlich fasziniert und kann eigentlich nichts dafür, dass er sich nicht erinnert, und das liegt nicht an zu hohem Alkoholkonsum, aber das weiß Dani ja nicht. Jax lernt sie als Mitbewohnerin seiner Schwester neu kennen und weiß, dass er sich von ihr fernhalten sollte, auf Clementines Wunsch hin. Und doch kann er sich nicht von ihr fernhalten. Er merkt, dass auch Dani ihn oft sonderbar betrachtet und kann das nicht richtig erklären, aber er sieht auch ihr Interesse. Andere Frauen verlieren ihren Reiz, aber Dani wird immer verlockender. Seine Verwandlung zum Softi fand ich ganz süß.
Handlung und Schreibstil
Das Buch beginnt nicht nach dem Ende von dem ersten Band sondern beginnt parallel dazu, hat dann aber eine ganz andere Geschwindigkeit und geht auch über das Ende von "Loving Clementine" hinaus und zeigt damit auch neue Entwicklungen nach dessen Ende und das fand ich schon gut so.
So gut mir "Loving Clementine" auch gefallen hat, der Nachfolger kommt da nicht ran!
Ich hab mich natürlich gefreut, dass die Charaktere wieder dabei waren, aber hier fand ich die Handlung um einiger vorhersehbarer und auch weniger originell, auch wenn es mich trotzdem ziemlich gut unterhalten hat. Es gab eigentlich nur eine Sache, die mich schrecklich gestört hat, und das war Jax' Verhalten an einer Stelle. Das die Handlung ganz doof verändert und da hätte man sich einfach was besseres ausdenken sollen.
Also, man kann sagen, ich war etwas unzufrieden mit der Handlung, aber zum Ende hin fand ich es dann wieder sehr gut, wo die Stränge zusammenkamen und sich alles richtig entwickelte.
Ansonsten ist da wieder der angenehme, lockere Schreibstil, der mir gut gefällt und auch der Humor war erfrischend.
Ich würde empfehlen, "Loving Clementine" vorher zu lesen, wenn man auch alles schön verstehen möchte. Es gab hier viele Dinge kurz erläutert, die in dort ausführlicher erklärt wurden. Wenn man diese Dinge nicht weiß, könnte es etwas verwirrend sein!
Fazit
"Finding Dandelion" hat mir wirklich gut gefallen, wenn auch nicht so gut wie der Vorgänger. Den Mittelteil fand ich nicht ganz überzeugend, aber das Ende hat es definitiv noch gerettet.
Protagonisten
Dani, eigentlich Danielle, aber ich dachte erst, sie hieße Dandelion, aber egal, studiert BWL, obwohl sie künstlerisch sehr begabt ist. Sie fürchtet, dass sie mit Kunst nicht genug verdienen würde und sie braucht Geld, da ihre Mutter krank ist und sie immer eine Rückkehr des Krebses befürchten. Sie hat einige Sorgen, darum kümmern sich ihre Freunde darum, dass sie auch ein wenig Spaß am Leben hat und bringen sie zu verrückten Aktionen, durch die sie auch Jax auffällt.
Eigentlich begann sie gerade, sich mit Clementine, Jax' Schwester, anzufreunden, doch nun befürchtet sie, was Clem von ihr halten würde, wenn sie von der Sache erfährt. Ihr eigener Stolz ist verletzt, da der heißeste Typ sie vergessen hat und sich stattdessen mit Models trifft - vor ihren Augen. Durch diese anderen Frauen, die perfekt aussehen, hat sie selbst das Gefühl, nicht gut genug zu sein, nicht interessant genug. Ich fand schon traurig, dass sie so wenig von sich hält, obwohl sie so ein nettes und entzückendes Mädchen ist.
Jax hat seine vielen Frauengeschichten, aber durch seine eigene Perspektive wissen wir, dass er einen weichen Kern hat und nicht immer ein Idiot ist. Von den ganzen Mädels ist er inzwischen selbst etwas genervt und ist nicht mehr so unreif wie früher. Von Dani ist er ziemlich fasziniert und kann eigentlich nichts dafür, dass er sich nicht erinnert, und das liegt nicht an zu hohem Alkoholkonsum, aber das weiß Dani ja nicht. Jax lernt sie als Mitbewohnerin seiner Schwester neu kennen und weiß, dass er sich von ihr fernhalten sollte, auf Clementines Wunsch hin. Und doch kann er sich nicht von ihr fernhalten. Er merkt, dass auch Dani ihn oft sonderbar betrachtet und kann das nicht richtig erklären, aber er sieht auch ihr Interesse. Andere Frauen verlieren ihren Reiz, aber Dani wird immer verlockender. Seine Verwandlung zum Softi fand ich ganz süß.
Handlung und Schreibstil
Das Buch beginnt nicht nach dem Ende von dem ersten Band sondern beginnt parallel dazu, hat dann aber eine ganz andere Geschwindigkeit und geht auch über das Ende von "Loving Clementine" hinaus und zeigt damit auch neue Entwicklungen nach dessen Ende und das fand ich schon gut so.
So gut mir "Loving Clementine" auch gefallen hat, der Nachfolger kommt da nicht ran!
Ich hab mich natürlich gefreut, dass die Charaktere wieder dabei waren, aber hier fand ich die Handlung um einiger vorhersehbarer und auch weniger originell, auch wenn es mich trotzdem ziemlich gut unterhalten hat. Es gab eigentlich nur eine Sache, die mich schrecklich gestört hat, und das war Jax' Verhalten an einer Stelle. Das die Handlung ganz doof verändert und da hätte man sich einfach was besseres ausdenken sollen.
Also, man kann sagen, ich war etwas unzufrieden mit der Handlung, aber zum Ende hin fand ich es dann wieder sehr gut, wo die Stränge zusammenkamen und sich alles richtig entwickelte.
Ansonsten ist da wieder der angenehme, lockere Schreibstil, der mir gut gefällt und auch der Humor war erfrischend.
Ich würde empfehlen, "Loving Clementine" vorher zu lesen, wenn man auch alles schön verstehen möchte. Es gab hier viele Dinge kurz erläutert, die in dort ausführlicher erklärt wurden. Wenn man diese Dinge nicht weiß, könnte es etwas verwirrend sein!
Fazit
"Finding Dandelion" hat mir wirklich gut gefallen, wenn auch nicht so gut wie der Vorgänger. Den Mittelteil fand ich nicht ganz überzeugend, aber das Ende hat es definitiv noch gerettet.
September 16, 2018
Seriously, everything I read by Lex Martin is contemporary romance gold. I fell head over heels in love with the first book in this series and I was itching to get my hands on Dani and Jax's story!
When Dani runs into Jax on his 21st birthday, Dani lets herself go and they have an insane attraction she can't ignore. So when her roommate introduces her brother to Dani and she sees that it's Jax, who doesn't show a flicker of recognition, Dani is horrified. Not only is hooking up with a friend's brother a big no-no, he obviously didn't feel what she did if he can't even remember her name. Jax is stressing over his precarious position on the soccer team and can't seem to get his sister's roommate out of his head. Jax needs to focus on soccer, but he finds it hard with Dani invading his every thought.
I absolutely loved the fact that we got Clementine's brother's story in this book and still got to see Clementine and Gavin throughout his story. You all know I love myself an athlete, so I really enjoyed how soccer was so important to Jax and how he had to try to be well behaved or else risk losing his spot on the team.
This was definitely a super emotional book and I really loved how close Dani was with her mom. It's refreshing having a story where the main characters actually have family and friends they care about and are a huge part of the plot. Jax was just so sweet in the moments where it meant the most to Dani and I couldn't help falling for him. Since I listened to this on audiobook, I flew through the story and listened to it within two days. Both narrators were engaging and I could not stop listening.
If you can't tell, this was another hit from Lex Martin. I love her characters and how she creates such an emotional story with a strong cast of characters who all really care about each other. As soon as I was done with this book, I dove right into the next one because I had to have more of these characters!
When Dani runs into Jax on his 21st birthday, Dani lets herself go and they have an insane attraction she can't ignore. So when her roommate introduces her brother to Dani and she sees that it's Jax, who doesn't show a flicker of recognition, Dani is horrified. Not only is hooking up with a friend's brother a big no-no, he obviously didn't feel what she did if he can't even remember her name. Jax is stressing over his precarious position on the soccer team and can't seem to get his sister's roommate out of his head. Jax needs to focus on soccer, but he finds it hard with Dani invading his every thought.
I absolutely loved the fact that we got Clementine's brother's story in this book and still got to see Clementine and Gavin throughout his story. You all know I love myself an athlete, so I really enjoyed how soccer was so important to Jax and how he had to try to be well behaved or else risk losing his spot on the team.
This was definitely a super emotional book and I really loved how close Dani was with her mom. It's refreshing having a story where the main characters actually have family and friends they care about and are a huge part of the plot. Jax was just so sweet in the moments where it meant the most to Dani and I couldn't help falling for him. Since I listened to this on audiobook, I flew through the story and listened to it within two days. Both narrators were engaging and I could not stop listening.
If you can't tell, this was another hit from Lex Martin. I love her characters and how she creates such an emotional story with a strong cast of characters who all really care about each other. As soon as I was done with this book, I dove right into the next one because I had to have more of these characters!
March 29, 2021
Dearest Clementine exceeded my expectations so I knew I was going to read this next book. I will admit it wasn’t as good as the first one but this was a nice read.
After the first book Jax was an okay character but I wasn’t sure how much I was going to like him. He is Clementine’s twin and known to be a real ladies man but there is more to him then we see on the surface.
After the first book Jax was an okay character but I wasn’t sure how much I was going to like him. He is Clementine’s twin and known to be a real ladies man but there is more to him then we see on the surface.
January 24, 2015
4.5/5 stars
I liked this book more than the first one in this series. This book is very emotional and kind of sad really. I like Dani and Jax - even though I really didn't think I was going to since Jax is kind of man-whoring ass. But he's more of a sweet ass in this book and I liked his connection with Dani.
Unlike the first book, this one is Dual-POV and I enjoyed it.
There were moments that made me laugh, make me feel very sad and the book also contains quite a bit of steamy hot scenes.
The book can be read as a stand alone, but I suggest reading the first book first. It introduces the characters and this one already gives away the ending of the first one.
I liked this book more than the first one in this series. This book is very emotional and kind of sad really. I like Dani and Jax - even though I really didn't think I was going to since Jax is kind of man-whoring ass. But he's more of a sweet ass in this book and I liked his connection with Dani.
Unlike the first book, this one is Dual-POV and I enjoyed it.
There were moments that made me laugh, make me feel very sad and the book also contains quite a bit of steamy hot scenes.
The book can be read as a stand alone, but I suggest reading the first book first. It introduces the characters and this one already gives away the ending of the first one.
July 5, 2014
I was lucky enough to received an advanced copy of this book.
I am absolutely IN LOVE with this series! If at all possible, I think I love book 2 more than book 1 (and that's saying a lot).
Finding Dandelion is the story of Jax and Dani, and let me just say that both of these characters are amazing---a sexy soccer player with a good heart and a timid, yet strong, heroine who doesn't know how amazing she is......
Here are just a few things I LOVED about the book:
1. Like I already said, I loved Jax and Dani.
2. The sexiness of the series has definitely increased with this book, and as much as I loved "baseball" in Finding Clementine, the heat in this book was sooooo much better :)
3. Loved getting to see a little of the first book from Dani and Jax's perspective (but it's not a retelling of the first---only part of the timeline occurs parallel to the first book)
4. Amazing secondary characters: I want a Travis! and I still would love a novella or full length book about Jenna and Ryan....
5. though it lacks the mystery of book 1 it's a great story that kept my attention from the prologue to the epilogue (and oh what an epilogue!) and I experienced an array of emotions---I laughed, cried a lot (Dani's relationship with her mother was absolutely beautiful and I think will hit home with a lot of women), got a little angry , and majorly cheesed at parts----that's a perfect book for me.
Another great read from Lex Martin. This has been one of my favorite series of the year and I can not wait for book three (coming out this fall!!!). Martin is now an instant-buy for me :)
I am absolutely IN LOVE with this series! If at all possible, I think I love book 2 more than book 1 (and that's saying a lot).
Finding Dandelion is the story of Jax and Dani, and let me just say that both of these characters are amazing---a sexy soccer player with a good heart and a timid, yet strong, heroine who doesn't know how amazing she is......
Here are just a few things I LOVED about the book:
1. Like I already said, I loved Jax and Dani.
2. The sexiness of the series has definitely increased with this book, and as much as I loved "baseball" in Finding Clementine, the heat in this book was sooooo much better :)
3. Loved getting to see a little of the first book from Dani and Jax's perspective (but it's not a retelling of the first---only part of the timeline occurs parallel to the first book)
4. Amazing secondary characters: I want a Travis! and I still would love a novella or full length book about Jenna and Ryan....
5. though it lacks the mystery of book 1 it's a great story that kept my attention from the prologue to the epilogue (and oh what an epilogue!) and I experienced an array of emotions---I laughed, cried a lot (Dani's relationship with her mother was absolutely beautiful and I think will hit home with a lot of women), got a little angry , and majorly cheesed at parts----that's a perfect book for me.
Another great read from Lex Martin. This has been one of my favorite series of the year and I can not wait for book three (coming out this fall!!!). Martin is now an instant-buy for me :)
July 26, 2014
honestly, there was just something about Dearest Clementine that pulled me in and made me love it. hence, it was no surprise that i was expecting something fucking huge and phenomenal for this book. i was disappointed. i didn't love danielle, and i wasn't exactly the biggest fan of jax. everything was just mediocre. the plot felt forced at times, and i couldn't connect to it. at all. as for that epilogue? could have been a lot better. but seeing as how i'm so critical of this book, i would have found some fault with it anyway.
May 12, 2015
These covers are seriously beautiful!
This story was great! Not as good as the first but I still enjoyed Jax and Dani's story. It was light and carefree at the beginning. then went all deep and sad at the end.
Dani and her Mum's relationship was so awesome! I loved her Mum!! So full of life and hilarious. More like a sister than a mother. (**GOALS**)
Jax was so sweet and attentive to Dani. He made some dick choices but he fought in the end and rightfully got the girl.
I actually thought the girl in this books name was 'Dandelion' and all I thought was "ugh". But it was the nickname haha. Dandelion...not exactly a great name.
This story was great! Not as good as the first but I still enjoyed Jax and Dani's story. It was light and carefree at the beginning. then went all deep and sad at the end.
Dani and her Mum's relationship was so awesome! I loved her Mum!! So full of life and hilarious. More like a sister than a mother. (**GOALS**)
Jax was so sweet and attentive to Dani. He made some dick choices but he fought in the end and rightfully got the girl.
I actually thought the girl in this books name was 'Dandelion' and all I thought was "ugh". But it was the nickname haha. Dandelion...not exactly a great name.
March 6, 2015
Awesome!! Just get's better!
January 15, 2025
Nemesi - per RFS
.
«[…] il mondo spezza tutti e molti sono forti proprio nei punti spezzati»
Ciao Fenici, ho appena terminato il secondo volume della serie Dearest di Lex Martin, Finding Dandelion, ed è stata una lettura estremamente piacevole. Avevo già apprezzato altri romanzi della Martin e anche questo è molto coinvolgente e si lascia leggere in modo scorrevole. Sono felicissima di potervi dire che ogni libro della saga può essere letto in maniera a sé stante.
Dani Hart, dopo essere stata tradita dal suo ragazzo, decide di stilare una lista per uscire dalla sua comfort zone. Tra i punti inseriti vi è quello di vivere l’avventura di una notte con uno sconosciuto, niente nomi, niente sentimento, solo una notte focosa per poi passare oltre e riiniziare da capo. È proprio così che Dani si imbatte in Jax Avery, star del calcio e conosciuto playboy. La connessione tra i due è istantanea, ma proprio sul più bello vengono interrotti e Jax la lascia nel club insoddisfatta e piena di dubbi andando via con un’altra.
Quando si rincontrano, Jax non riconosce Dani. Non è stato di certo uno shock per lei, del resto non si aspettava poi molto da quel ragazzo, lo è stato invece scoprire che è il fratello della sua coinquilina. Decide così di non menzionare la sera in cui si sono conosciuti né a Jax né a sua sorella, anche per evitare di litigare con quest’ultima. Quello che però Dani non sa è che Jax, quella sera al club, non ha volutamente dimenticato Dani ma, in seguito a un incidente, ha subìto un trauma cranico che gli ha scombussolato la memoria.
Il giovane dalla sua è in bilico con la sua squadra e un passo falso potrebbe cambiare la sua carriera. Eppure tutto quello a cui riesce a pensare (dopo averla “ri” – vista) è a Danielle, che invade i suoi pensieri e riempie la sua mente di dubbi. Dove l’ha già incontrata? E come mai per la prima volta non vuole una storia da una botta e via?
Finding Dandelion è una storia molto romantica e dolce, piena di sentimento. L’autrice affronta temi importanti come la crescita interiore, il futuro incerto, la morte, i problemi economici e quanto siano significative le figure dei genitori nella vita dei figli, ma anche l’importanza dei veri amici che sono pronti a raggiungerti all’altro capo del mondo pur di farti stare bene. Ho adorato il titolo e il motivo per cui è stato scelto, Dandelion viene usato come soprannome per Dani, e per chi non lo sapesse (perché non viene specificato nel romanzo) è un fiore, il dente di Leone che nel linguaggio dei fiori è simbolo di forza, fiducia e speranza. Danielle è proprio questo: un concentrato di forza, perché affronta gli ostacoli che le si parano davanti con tenacia e spirito. Jax è più di quello che dà a vedere; gli atteggiamenti e il comportamento di cui fa sfoggio sono in realtà una maschera, una corazza che ha creato, forgiata da dolori passati e presenti, che lo hanno portato ad avere come una sorta di misoginia affettiva nei confronti delle donne.
I punti di vista sono alternati e questo rende più facile empatizzare con entrambi i personaggi. Mi è mancata invece l’azione inerente allo sport; il calcio viene utilizzato solo come sfondo e l’intero libro è concentrato sulla parte romance. Lo spicy non è molto e lo slow burn prima dell’arrivo è intenso.
In conclusione è un romanzo che merita di essere letto senza alcun dubbio e sarà mia premura recuperare il primo e i successivi.
.
«[…] il mondo spezza tutti e molti sono forti proprio nei punti spezzati»
Ciao Fenici, ho appena terminato il secondo volume della serie Dearest di Lex Martin, Finding Dandelion, ed è stata una lettura estremamente piacevole. Avevo già apprezzato altri romanzi della Martin e anche questo è molto coinvolgente e si lascia leggere in modo scorrevole. Sono felicissima di potervi dire che ogni libro della saga può essere letto in maniera a sé stante.
Dani Hart, dopo essere stata tradita dal suo ragazzo, decide di stilare una lista per uscire dalla sua comfort zone. Tra i punti inseriti vi è quello di vivere l’avventura di una notte con uno sconosciuto, niente nomi, niente sentimento, solo una notte focosa per poi passare oltre e riiniziare da capo. È proprio così che Dani si imbatte in Jax Avery, star del calcio e conosciuto playboy. La connessione tra i due è istantanea, ma proprio sul più bello vengono interrotti e Jax la lascia nel club insoddisfatta e piena di dubbi andando via con un’altra.
Quando si rincontrano, Jax non riconosce Dani. Non è stato di certo uno shock per lei, del resto non si aspettava poi molto da quel ragazzo, lo è stato invece scoprire che è il fratello della sua coinquilina. Decide così di non menzionare la sera in cui si sono conosciuti né a Jax né a sua sorella, anche per evitare di litigare con quest’ultima. Quello che però Dani non sa è che Jax, quella sera al club, non ha volutamente dimenticato Dani ma, in seguito a un incidente, ha subìto un trauma cranico che gli ha scombussolato la memoria.
Il giovane dalla sua è in bilico con la sua squadra e un passo falso potrebbe cambiare la sua carriera. Eppure tutto quello a cui riesce a pensare (dopo averla “ri” – vista) è a Danielle, che invade i suoi pensieri e riempie la sua mente di dubbi. Dove l’ha già incontrata? E come mai per la prima volta non vuole una storia da una botta e via?
Finding Dandelion è una storia molto romantica e dolce, piena di sentimento. L’autrice affronta temi importanti come la crescita interiore, il futuro incerto, la morte, i problemi economici e quanto siano significative le figure dei genitori nella vita dei figli, ma anche l’importanza dei veri amici che sono pronti a raggiungerti all’altro capo del mondo pur di farti stare bene. Ho adorato il titolo e il motivo per cui è stato scelto, Dandelion viene usato come soprannome per Dani, e per chi non lo sapesse (perché non viene specificato nel romanzo) è un fiore, il dente di Leone che nel linguaggio dei fiori è simbolo di forza, fiducia e speranza. Danielle è proprio questo: un concentrato di forza, perché affronta gli ostacoli che le si parano davanti con tenacia e spirito. Jax è più di quello che dà a vedere; gli atteggiamenti e il comportamento di cui fa sfoggio sono in realtà una maschera, una corazza che ha creato, forgiata da dolori passati e presenti, che lo hanno portato ad avere come una sorta di misoginia affettiva nei confronti delle donne.
I punti di vista sono alternati e questo rende più facile empatizzare con entrambi i personaggi. Mi è mancata invece l’azione inerente allo sport; il calcio viene utilizzato solo come sfondo e l’intero libro è concentrato sulla parte romance. Lo spicy non è molto e lo slow burn prima dell’arrivo è intenso.
In conclusione è un romanzo che merita di essere letto senza alcun dubbio e sarà mia premura recuperare il primo e i successivi.
March 15, 2018
Nachdem mir bereits der erste Band "Loving Clementine" gut gefallen hat und ich den Schreibstil von Lex Martin allgemein sehr mag, habe ich mich schon sehr auf "Finding Dandelion", dem zweiten Band der "Dearest"-Trilogie gefreut und ich muss sagen, dass ich nicht enttäuscht wurde.
Lex Martin verwendet in „Finding Dandelion“ einen angenehmen Schreibstil, der sich sehr flott und leicht lesen lässt. Gleichzeitig gibt es hier zahlreiche Liebesszenen, die gut und authentisch beschrieben werden, allerdings hat die Autorin hierbei auch nicht auf Kitsch verzichten können/wollen, was sich jedoch im Rahmen hält. Die Figuren sind gut ausgearbeitet, oftmals sympathisch und ich habe Dani und Jax sehr schnell ins Herz schließen können.
Die Geschichte ist dabei schnell erzählt: Dani ist eigentlich eine sehr bodenständige, junge Frau, die mit beiden Beinen fest im Leben steht. Dennoch hat auch sie ihre Sorgen und muss sich zudem um ihre Mutter kümmern, was sie zu einer sympathischen Figur macht. Obwohl sie eher der Beziehungstyp ist und One Night Stands nichts abgewinnen kann, wirft sie bei Jax Avery alle Bedenken über Board und kommt ihm sehr viel näher, als sie je gedacht hätte. Als Jax jedoch daraufhin spurlos verschwindet und sie die Welt nicht versteht, wird ihr Gedankenkarussel letztendlich noch schlimmer, denn Jax ist nicht nur der Fußball-Star des Colleges, sondern auch der Bruder von Danis Zimmergenossin, was für sie ein großer Schock ist.
Die Zimmergenossin ist dabei keine Unbekannte, denn Clementine durfte man bereits im ersten Band "Loving Clementine" kennen lernen, wo ihre persönliche Geschichte erzählt wird. Clementine empfand ich auch in diesem Band wieder absolut hinreißend und ich mochte die Chemie zwischen ihr und Dani.
Zugegeben: Die Geschichte zwischen Jax und Dani ist sicherlich hier und da vorhersehbar und die Autorin hat mit dieser Geschichte auch nicht das Rad neu erfunden. Dennoch hat mir die Geschichte von Anfang an sehr gut gefallen, da sie eine gewisse Tiefe besitzt, die ich im Vorfeld nicht erwartet habe. Somit konnte ich letztendlich auch mit den Figuren gut mitfiebern und vor allem mitfühlen.
Das Cover ist zwar an sich sehr typisch für das Genre und fällt von daher nicht allzu sehr auf, allerdings passt das Model, das Dani darstellen soll, gut zur Geschichte und auch der Filter ist dabei gelungen. Die Kurzbeschreibung hat mich ebenfalls direkt angesprochen, sodass ich dem Buch sehr gerne eine Chance gegeben habe.
Kurz gesagt: Obwohl „Finding Dandelion“ wie auch schon beim ersten Band oftmals sehr vorhersehbar ist und nur wenige Überraschungen bietet, konnte mich die Geschichte mit einem flotten Schreibstil, prickelnden Momenten und interessanten Figuren überzeugen, sodass ich das Buch nur selten aus den Händen legen konnte.
Lex Martin verwendet in „Finding Dandelion“ einen angenehmen Schreibstil, der sich sehr flott und leicht lesen lässt. Gleichzeitig gibt es hier zahlreiche Liebesszenen, die gut und authentisch beschrieben werden, allerdings hat die Autorin hierbei auch nicht auf Kitsch verzichten können/wollen, was sich jedoch im Rahmen hält. Die Figuren sind gut ausgearbeitet, oftmals sympathisch und ich habe Dani und Jax sehr schnell ins Herz schließen können.
Die Geschichte ist dabei schnell erzählt: Dani ist eigentlich eine sehr bodenständige, junge Frau, die mit beiden Beinen fest im Leben steht. Dennoch hat auch sie ihre Sorgen und muss sich zudem um ihre Mutter kümmern, was sie zu einer sympathischen Figur macht. Obwohl sie eher der Beziehungstyp ist und One Night Stands nichts abgewinnen kann, wirft sie bei Jax Avery alle Bedenken über Board und kommt ihm sehr viel näher, als sie je gedacht hätte. Als Jax jedoch daraufhin spurlos verschwindet und sie die Welt nicht versteht, wird ihr Gedankenkarussel letztendlich noch schlimmer, denn Jax ist nicht nur der Fußball-Star des Colleges, sondern auch der Bruder von Danis Zimmergenossin, was für sie ein großer Schock ist.
Die Zimmergenossin ist dabei keine Unbekannte, denn Clementine durfte man bereits im ersten Band "Loving Clementine" kennen lernen, wo ihre persönliche Geschichte erzählt wird. Clementine empfand ich auch in diesem Band wieder absolut hinreißend und ich mochte die Chemie zwischen ihr und Dani.
Zugegeben: Die Geschichte zwischen Jax und Dani ist sicherlich hier und da vorhersehbar und die Autorin hat mit dieser Geschichte auch nicht das Rad neu erfunden. Dennoch hat mir die Geschichte von Anfang an sehr gut gefallen, da sie eine gewisse Tiefe besitzt, die ich im Vorfeld nicht erwartet habe. Somit konnte ich letztendlich auch mit den Figuren gut mitfiebern und vor allem mitfühlen.
Das Cover ist zwar an sich sehr typisch für das Genre und fällt von daher nicht allzu sehr auf, allerdings passt das Model, das Dani darstellen soll, gut zur Geschichte und auch der Filter ist dabei gelungen. Die Kurzbeschreibung hat mich ebenfalls direkt angesprochen, sodass ich dem Buch sehr gerne eine Chance gegeben habe.
Kurz gesagt: Obwohl „Finding Dandelion“ wie auch schon beim ersten Band oftmals sehr vorhersehbar ist und nur wenige Überraschungen bietet, konnte mich die Geschichte mit einem flotten Schreibstil, prickelnden Momenten und interessanten Figuren überzeugen, sodass ich das Buch nur selten aus den Händen legen konnte.
December 16, 2014
This book and series has hooked me!! Yet again, I read this book in just a few hours. I couldn’t put it down and it didn’t matter if my family needed me for something. I had to know how it was going to end!
Finding Dandelion is the second book in Dearest series by Lex Martin. While each book is a standalone, you get to see the entire cast of characters so I would recommend reading the first book, Dearest Clementine before you read this one. I loved the first book! But I think I enjoyed this one even more!
My emotions while reading this book were everywhere; I was happy, laughing, and then next thing you know I was ugly crying. The sex scenes were steamier in this book too! I can’t wait for Daren’s story!!! ~ Tiffany, 5 stars
~~~
Ah, I do so love a good reformed man-whore story. And a story that gives me feels. Finding Dandelion provided me with both and that would probably explain why I was laughing and smiling while reading it outside in the afternoon sun and why I was quietly crying while reading it in my big ole bed at one am. Quietly only because I didn’t want to wake the kids – there’s some serious ugly cry potential here...
Dani Hart is a good girl. She’s heard it all her life, like it’s a bad thing. And given her history with love that certainly seems to be true. When she hooks up with soccer star Jax Avery on a fun and carefree night out, she doesn’t expect the intense connection they share to make everyone before and since pale in comparison. She doesn’t expect to find out he’s the brother of her friend and roommate. And she certainly doesn’t expect that he won’t remember her and their hot night together the next time they come face-to-face.
Jax has a few hard and fast rules when it comes to the women he hooks up with. No married women and definitely not one of his twin sister’s roommates. When he sees Dani for the first time, he doesn’t know why he experiences a strong sense of déjà vu and an even stronger need to claim the beautiful woman, but he does know that she’s off limits. But when an accident brings them closer, keeping their hands to themselves and denying their attraction proves to be impossible.
They are both holding back though and when their secrets – and their pasts – come to light, they’re going to have to find their way back to one another.
It took me a few chapters to really get into this book, but when I did I couldn’t stop reading. The story was a great one – without going into spoilerific details, finding out exactly WHY Jax doesn’t remember his hot hook-up was interesting and a bit different – and the characters were likeable, fun, flirty and played well off each other.
The alternating POV gave insight into both sides of the story and that is something I always enjoy, especially when it showed that Jax, the renowned man-whore, wasn’t all a*shole – far from it, in fact. After all, who really wants to lust after an irredeemable jerk? Certainly not me.
Dani was a great play on the good girl character, with enough edge and spunk to make her the kind of gal you’d want to be friends with and enough innocence to make her actions when it comes to Jax completely believable.
The secondary characters – most of who were introduced in the first book in this series, Dearest Clementine – made a strong and funny supporting cast. It didn’t matter that I hadn’t read Clementine however, because Lex Martin was smart enough and kind enough to give me enough details to keep me in the loop, while making me want to search out and read her previous book.
I’m not going to say what made me cry – again, I want to avoid spoilers – but I will say that it reminded me how far from home I am, how important my family and friends are, and how easy it could be to let someone slip through your fingers. And that is what I mean when I say there is serious ugly cry potential. Well, that and the fact that Jax isn’t real and I’m not the one reforming him....
Finding Dandelion is the second book in the Dearest Series and can be read as a standalone. There is no cliffhanger. ~ Beth, 4.5 stars.
Finding Dandelion is the second book in Dearest series by Lex Martin. While each book is a standalone, you get to see the entire cast of characters so I would recommend reading the first book, Dearest Clementine before you read this one. I loved the first book! But I think I enjoyed this one even more!
My emotions while reading this book were everywhere; I was happy, laughing, and then next thing you know I was ugly crying. The sex scenes were steamier in this book too! I can’t wait for Daren’s story!!! ~ Tiffany, 5 stars
~~~
Ah, I do so love a good reformed man-whore story. And a story that gives me feels. Finding Dandelion provided me with both and that would probably explain why I was laughing and smiling while reading it outside in the afternoon sun and why I was quietly crying while reading it in my big ole bed at one am. Quietly only because I didn’t want to wake the kids – there’s some serious ugly cry potential here...
Dani Hart is a good girl. She’s heard it all her life, like it’s a bad thing. And given her history with love that certainly seems to be true. When she hooks up with soccer star Jax Avery on a fun and carefree night out, she doesn’t expect the intense connection they share to make everyone before and since pale in comparison. She doesn’t expect to find out he’s the brother of her friend and roommate. And she certainly doesn’t expect that he won’t remember her and their hot night together the next time they come face-to-face.
Jax has a few hard and fast rules when it comes to the women he hooks up with. No married women and definitely not one of his twin sister’s roommates. When he sees Dani for the first time, he doesn’t know why he experiences a strong sense of déjà vu and an even stronger need to claim the beautiful woman, but he does know that she’s off limits. But when an accident brings them closer, keeping their hands to themselves and denying their attraction proves to be impossible.
They are both holding back though and when their secrets – and their pasts – come to light, they’re going to have to find their way back to one another.
It took me a few chapters to really get into this book, but when I did I couldn’t stop reading. The story was a great one – without going into spoilerific details, finding out exactly WHY Jax doesn’t remember his hot hook-up was interesting and a bit different – and the characters were likeable, fun, flirty and played well off each other.
The alternating POV gave insight into both sides of the story and that is something I always enjoy, especially when it showed that Jax, the renowned man-whore, wasn’t all a*shole – far from it, in fact. After all, who really wants to lust after an irredeemable jerk? Certainly not me.
Dani was a great play on the good girl character, with enough edge and spunk to make her the kind of gal you’d want to be friends with and enough innocence to make her actions when it comes to Jax completely believable.
The secondary characters – most of who were introduced in the first book in this series, Dearest Clementine – made a strong and funny supporting cast. It didn’t matter that I hadn’t read Clementine however, because Lex Martin was smart enough and kind enough to give me enough details to keep me in the loop, while making me want to search out and read her previous book.
I’m not going to say what made me cry – again, I want to avoid spoilers – but I will say that it reminded me how far from home I am, how important my family and friends are, and how easy it could be to let someone slip through your fingers. And that is what I mean when I say there is serious ugly cry potential. Well, that and the fact that Jax isn’t real and I’m not the one reforming him....
Finding Dandelion is the second book in the Dearest Series and can be read as a standalone. There is no cliffhanger. ~ Beth, 4.5 stars.
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