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Panic #4
What About Us
Irresistible beats and tantalizing bodies heat up the night at South Beach’s most scandalous new club.
Alex: I hate doing business in clubs. Especially one like Duality. I’m here to seal a deal, not indulge in whatever hedonistic illusion they’re selling. Until, through all the skin and sex on display, I see her. Helen Blackwood. The girl who once filled my youthful fantasies, whose name is now synonymous with pain. Her father’s lies destroyed my family, leaving me with nothing to lose. And yet I can’t deny my electric response to her touch . . . or my urge to protect her when I see the bruise on her face.
Helen: Growing up, life prepared me for society galas and powerful men, not minimum-wage jobs or drunk exes with anger issues. But I’m a survivor. So here I am, practically naked, serving drinks at a Miami nightclub. I don’t mind the stares. Apparently, Alex Archer does. After twelve years, we aren’t exactly friends, but money is something we both understand. Something he knows I need. I’ll be his personal assistant, even if it means working with the man I hate . . . and the man I still want.
No cheating. No cliffhangers. And no dress code.
Don’t miss Sidney Halston’s Panic series:
PULL ME CLOSE | MAKE ME STAY | KISS ME BACK | WHAT ABOUT US
And look for all of her hard-hitting MMA romances:
AGAINST THE CAGE | FULL CONTACT | BELOW THE BELT| LAID OUT | FIGHTING DIRTY | STACKED UP
This ebook includes an excerpt from another Loveswept title.
Alex: I hate doing business in clubs. Especially one like Duality. I’m here to seal a deal, not indulge in whatever hedonistic illusion they’re selling. Until, through all the skin and sex on display, I see her. Helen Blackwood. The girl who once filled my youthful fantasies, whose name is now synonymous with pain. Her father’s lies destroyed my family, leaving me with nothing to lose. And yet I can’t deny my electric response to her touch . . . or my urge to protect her when I see the bruise on her face.
Helen: Growing up, life prepared me for society galas and powerful men, not minimum-wage jobs or drunk exes with anger issues. But I’m a survivor. So here I am, practically naked, serving drinks at a Miami nightclub. I don’t mind the stares. Apparently, Alex Archer does. After twelve years, we aren’t exactly friends, but money is something we both understand. Something he knows I need. I’ll be his personal assistant, even if it means working with the man I hate . . . and the man I still want.
No cheating. No cliffhangers. And no dress code.
Don’t miss Sidney Halston’s Panic series:
PULL ME CLOSE | MAKE ME STAY | KISS ME BACK | WHAT ABOUT US
And look for all of her hard-hitting MMA romances:
AGAINST THE CAGE | FULL CONTACT | BELOW THE BELT| LAID OUT | FIGHTING DIRTY | STACKED UP
This ebook includes an excerpt from another Loveswept title.
208 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 20, 2018
32 people are currently reading
319 people want to read
About the author
Sidney Halston
23 books1,137 followersJeanette Escudero worked as an attorney before picking up a pen at thirty years old to write something other than legal briefs. Being published fulfilled a dream and gave her an outlet for her imaginative, romantic side. Writing as Sidney Halston, she is the USA Today bestselling author of the Panic series, the Worth the Fight series, the Iron-Clad Security novels, and the Seeing Red duet. In addition to writing and reading, Jeanette has a passion for travel and adventure. She and her family have been to the Galapagos Islands and have hiked Yellowstone, the Shenandoah mountains, and the Great Smoky Mountains. Born in Miami, Florida, to Cuban parents, she currently lives in South Florida with her husband and her three children, in whom she’s instilled a love of nature and an appreciation for the planet. For more information visit www.sidneyhalston.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 106 reviews
November 21, 2018
NOW LIVE!
Amazon US * Amazon UK
What About Us is the story of a teenage crush turned enemy second-chance romance. On her eighteenth birthday Helen's world shattered around her and she was left alone with not even her childhood friend, Alex, there to comfort her. 12 years later she's working at Panic and Alex is at the club closing a business deal when they see each other. While Helen is excited to see an old friend, Alex see's the revenge he's wanted on her family for 12 long years. There's undeniable chemistry between them that draws them to each other but will that be enough for Alex to give up the hate he's felt for Helen and her family all these years?
This book actually pulled the series away from the club a little more than the other books but I liked that about it. It fit for these characters to not have too much to do with Panic and it allowed them to get a good deal of background details on their characters. Yet their past and what happened to drive them apart never took over and the story was kept in the present with their current lives at the focus.
Helen and Alex were both well developed characters and I could connect easily to them. Their romance was a pretty mixed bag of second-chance, friends-to-lovers, and also enemies-to-lovers which sounds like a lot but it worked really well for them I think. We got to see them discover their friendship again and in the process realize that those feelings between them were a little more than just friendly. Overall, I thought their story was brilliant and I can't wait to see what Ms. Halston will come up with next. Maybe a certain business partner will get a story?
ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review.
Amazon US * Amazon UK
What About Us is the story of a teenage crush turned enemy second-chance romance. On her eighteenth birthday Helen's world shattered around her and she was left alone with not even her childhood friend, Alex, there to comfort her. 12 years later she's working at Panic and Alex is at the club closing a business deal when they see each other. While Helen is excited to see an old friend, Alex see's the revenge he's wanted on her family for 12 long years. There's undeniable chemistry between them that draws them to each other but will that be enough for Alex to give up the hate he's felt for Helen and her family all these years?
This book actually pulled the series away from the club a little more than the other books but I liked that about it. It fit for these characters to not have too much to do with Panic and it allowed them to get a good deal of background details on their characters. Yet their past and what happened to drive them apart never took over and the story was kept in the present with their current lives at the focus.
Helen and Alex were both well developed characters and I could connect easily to them. Their romance was a pretty mixed bag of second-chance, friends-to-lovers, and also enemies-to-lovers which sounds like a lot but it worked really well for them I think. We got to see them discover their friendship again and in the process realize that those feelings between them were a little more than just friendly. Overall, I thought their story was brilliant and I can't wait to see what Ms. Halston will come up with next. Maybe a certain business partner will get a story?
ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review.
December 8, 2018
3.5 stars.
This is book 4 of the "Panic" series and while I enjoyed reading "What About Us" this just doesn't have that same pull of the very first book "Pull Me Close" (totally recommended reading).
Don't get me wrong I really do love this series but if I am totally honest this book is probably the weakest one out of the four.
What I really do love about Sidney Halston's books though is that all her love stories are passionate and somewhat intense, usually with a good dose of drama to boot.
Also I would be negligent if I failed to mention that they are super HOT!!! Maybe it's the Miami heat and the nightclub scene that makes them such "scorchers" but "wowee"!!!
In this instance what I liked best was the second chance aspect to this story (more of an enemies to lovers romance).
Alex and Helen had grown up together as neighbors and friends. He was a little older and Helen had crushed on him fiercely for a long time but on her 18th birthday not only do they share a first kiss but both their worlds proceed to fall apart with a vengeance on that very same day.
When they finally meet again in Miami it is 12 years later, not only are they now strangers but they both appear to think the very worst of each other.
I did so enjoy seeing them gradually begin to rekindle their friendship and establish trust again. It was both sweet and angry at times (delicious).
What does impress me most with this series is how unique and original each story is.
Thank you Netgalley, Loveswept publications and Sidney Halston for the opportunity to read and review this book .
Pull Me Close. (Panic #1)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Make Me Stay. (Panic #2)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Kiss Me Back. (Panic #3)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
This is book 4 of the "Panic" series and while I enjoyed reading "What About Us" this just doesn't have that same pull of the very first book "Pull Me Close" (totally recommended reading).
Don't get me wrong I really do love this series but if I am totally honest this book is probably the weakest one out of the four.
What I really do love about Sidney Halston's books though is that all her love stories are passionate and somewhat intense, usually with a good dose of drama to boot.
Also I would be negligent if I failed to mention that they are super HOT!!! Maybe it's the Miami heat and the nightclub scene that makes them such "scorchers" but "wowee"!!!
In this instance what I liked best was the second chance aspect to this story (more of an enemies to lovers romance).
Alex and Helen had grown up together as neighbors and friends. He was a little older and Helen had crushed on him fiercely for a long time but on her 18th birthday not only do they share a first kiss but both their worlds proceed to fall apart with a vengeance on that very same day.
When they finally meet again in Miami it is 12 years later, not only are they now strangers but they both appear to think the very worst of each other.
I did so enjoy seeing them gradually begin to rekindle their friendship and establish trust again. It was both sweet and angry at times (delicious).
What does impress me most with this series is how unique and original each story is.
Thank you Netgalley, Loveswept publications and Sidney Halston for the opportunity to read and review this book .
Pull Me Close. (Panic #1)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Make Me Stay. (Panic #2)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Kiss Me Back. (Panic #3)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
September 2, 2018
ARC received for review
Oh, it hurts to give one of my favs a three star rating especially when the first two books were so good.
I just didn't feel the connection between Alex and Helen. He was her first kiss at 18, and then they were ripped apart. He sees her again at the Miami night club, and he is shocked and confused. They fought and fought, and he was just plain mean to her most of the time. Her ex was just plan nasty. It was nice seeing Matt and Iggy at the beginning. I'm still waiting on Iggy's book.
Oh, it hurts to give one of my favs a three star rating especially when the first two books were so good.
I just didn't feel the connection between Alex and Helen. He was her first kiss at 18, and then they were ripped apart. He sees her again at the Miami night club, and he is shocked and confused. They fought and fought, and he was just plain mean to her most of the time. Her ex was just plan nasty. It was nice seeing Matt and Iggy at the beginning. I'm still waiting on Iggy's book.
July 3, 2022
5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️- Excellent - Highly Recommended
4 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ - A good, solid read
3 ⭐️⭐️⭐️ - An okay read
2 ⭐️⭐️ - Meh
1 ⭐️ - Not my cup of tea
4 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ - A good, solid read
3 ⭐️⭐️⭐️ - An okay read
2 ⭐️⭐️ - Meh
1 ⭐️ - Not my cup of tea
Want to read
September 7, 2018
Once again Sidney Halston is taking us on a journey...
Two people who are enemies...
Yet two who are tied together in such a way...
They can never forget the attraction...
The feelings they have...
They should hate each other...
They should stay very far away from each other...
But both know ....
Deep Down Inside...
There is a calling, asking....
What About Us-November 20th 2018
Pull Me Close (Panic#1)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Make Me Stay (Panic#2)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Kiss Me Back (Panic#3)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
What About Us (Panic#4)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
A gifted copy was provided by Random House Publishing Group - Loveswept via NetGalley for an honest review.
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
Two people who are enemies...
Yet two who are tied together in such a way...
They can never forget the attraction...
The feelings they have...
They should hate each other...
They should stay very far away from each other...
But both know ....
Deep Down Inside...
There is a calling, asking....
What About Us-November 20th 2018
Pull Me Close (Panic#1)https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Make Me Stay (Panic#2)https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Kiss Me Back (Panic#3)https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
What About Us (Panic#4)https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
A gifted copy was provided by Random House Publishing Group - Loveswept via NetGalley for an honest review.
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
November 26, 2018
3.5 to 4 stars
I do love this series, and while I liked What About Us, it cannot compare to Pull Me Close which remains my favorite of the series!
Alex and Helen grew up together...next door neighbors. They always had a connection, but Helen was younger than Alex, so he kept his distance. Until her 18th birthday when he finally kisses her for the first time. And then all hell breaks loose. The family drama tears them apart and they don't see each other for 12 years. They have both made assumptions about the past and now they are faced with some truths.
I liked the book. Had a little trouble connecting to the characters. However, when I looked at a little note I had jotted down to describe it, this is what I wrote: "Two angry people who admittedly hate each other having a quicky first encounter = HOT!" Haha! So there's that!
I still love the series and will continue if she writes another book!
I received an ARC of this book through NetGalley for an honest review.
I do love this series, and while I liked What About Us, it cannot compare to Pull Me Close which remains my favorite of the series!
Alex and Helen grew up together...next door neighbors. They always had a connection, but Helen was younger than Alex, so he kept his distance. Until her 18th birthday when he finally kisses her for the first time. And then all hell breaks loose. The family drama tears them apart and they don't see each other for 12 years. They have both made assumptions about the past and now they are faced with some truths.
I liked the book. Had a little trouble connecting to the characters. However, when I looked at a little note I had jotted down to describe it, this is what I wrote: "Two angry people who admittedly hate each other having a quicky first encounter = HOT!" Haha! So there's that!
I still love the series and will continue if she writes another book!
I received an ARC of this book through NetGalley for an honest review.
October 24, 2018
With each book from this series I’ve thought, “That was my favorite.” But truly, What About Us is definitely one to beat the others and the reasons are Helen and Alex. They are both so unique and completely developed that I felt like I had known them my whole life.
Helen is sassy and quirky but man can she tell you like it is. She doesn’t take any bull from Alex and let me tell you, he tosses a lot of it her way. With a tough outer shell, inside she’s really all marshmallowy soft despite the past years that have made her walk through fire. I loved her complete dedication to remaining the woman her trials had made her even when Alex is able to give her back the life she once had. She wasn’t going to take the easy way out by relying on him financially. That’s kind of my catnip.
Alex doesn’t like loud groups of people and he struggles to communicate his feelings...all the time. When he does speak he pretty much tells it like it is and in the process projects a real a holery vibe to the one he’s talking to, mainly Helen. But man, when he finally finds it within himself to open up he doesn’t go second rate. I loved watching him react to Helen and then fall in love with her. She was all he needed and sometimes his needs meant taking care of her in ways she didn’t want to accept. I loved every moment of it.
This is a fast paced enemies to lovers romance that knocked my socks off with its heat and intensity between these characters. They argued, they sexed it up and they developed a relationship with so much feeling it permeated every page, every word. Despite being part of a series, this can definitely be read as a standalone and it gives a wonderful epilogue that was absolute perfection. I hated to see this couple’s story come to an official close. I highly recommend this to any and everyone!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book provided by NetGalley and Loveswept. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Dual POV
Safe
Triggers
Helen is sassy and quirky but man can she tell you like it is. She doesn’t take any bull from Alex and let me tell you, he tosses a lot of it her way. With a tough outer shell, inside she’s really all marshmallowy soft despite the past years that have made her walk through fire. I loved her complete dedication to remaining the woman her trials had made her even when Alex is able to give her back the life she once had. She wasn’t going to take the easy way out by relying on him financially. That’s kind of my catnip.
Alex doesn’t like loud groups of people and he struggles to communicate his feelings...all the time. When he does speak he pretty much tells it like it is and in the process projects a real a holery vibe to the one he’s talking to, mainly Helen. But man, when he finally finds it within himself to open up he doesn’t go second rate. I loved watching him react to Helen and then fall in love with her. She was all he needed and sometimes his needs meant taking care of her in ways she didn’t want to accept. I loved every moment of it.
This is a fast paced enemies to lovers romance that knocked my socks off with its heat and intensity between these characters. They argued, they sexed it up and they developed a relationship with so much feeling it permeated every page, every word. Despite being part of a series, this can definitely be read as a standalone and it gives a wonderful epilogue that was absolute perfection. I hated to see this couple’s story come to an official close. I highly recommend this to any and everyone!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book provided by NetGalley and Loveswept. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Dual POV
Safe
Triggers
November 16, 2018
3 stars
I love this series! Love stories full of passion, drama and intensity, and this time, an enemies-to-lovers, almost-second-chance romance that was good but that didn’t quite hit the mark of the previous books in the series. But more about that later.
Helen’s history is twisted and painful. Through no fault of her own, she lost her life of luxury and has had to make it on her own since she was 18, struggling to get by and fighting for every bit of success she has had. She is now in a relatively good spot, working behind the bar at Duality nightclub, when her past comes back to upend her life once again.
Alex is a businessman in Miami for a short-term deal. He’s gruff and broody and hates socialising, but he has been dragged to Duality nightclub by a business associate. And his night takes a turn for the unexpected when he runs into a very unpleasant blast from his past.
Alex and Helen grew up together, they were friends on the verge of something more when they were torn apart. The circumstances of their parting led to a lot of anger and pain, and with both of them misunderstanding the other’s situation, 12 years apart has fostered a whole lot of hatred. They are furious with each other, but there is still a spark between them – an unforgotten attraction with a tinge of curiosity about each other, and though on the surface they want nothing to do with each other, neither of them can deny the pull.
When Helen finds herself in trouble, it’s Alex who comes to her rescue, unable to stay away from her. She ends up working for him, putting them into close proximity and giving them the perfect opportunity to bicker and banter, and to slowly start to open up about their pasts, their feelings and their pain, and finally act on all of their pent-up sexual tension. But there is still so much between anger and pain between them, and it’s quite the tumultuous ride for them as they figure it all out.
This book moves at a really fast pace, and I felt that it was lacking some of the build-up and detail that I have come to expect from Halston’s writing. I wanted to explore these characters more, I wanted more chemistry, more opening up about feelings, more development of everything between them that would allow me to feel what was happening between them. Especially where Alex is concerned. He’s such a complex character, and I was so looking forward to exploring his harsh moodiness, instead it’s like we just scratched the surface of this complicated man, though the glimpses we did get to see of him opening up his heart were gorgeous.
The set-up is there and we get glimpses of great romance, but as much as it hurts to say, this book feels like a missed opportunity for what could have been another awesome read in the series. Again, I thought the ending was a bit rushed and I would have liked to have seen a bit more detail, but it ends in a good (if somewhat cheesy) place.
So yeah, not my favourite of the series, but I’ll definitely be picking up more books if Halston writes them.
I liked it, just didn’t love it. 3 stars.
An Advanced Review Copy was generously provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I love this series! Love stories full of passion, drama and intensity, and this time, an enemies-to-lovers, almost-second-chance romance that was good but that didn’t quite hit the mark of the previous books in the series. But more about that later.
Helen’s history is twisted and painful. Through no fault of her own, she lost her life of luxury and has had to make it on her own since she was 18, struggling to get by and fighting for every bit of success she has had. She is now in a relatively good spot, working behind the bar at Duality nightclub, when her past comes back to upend her life once again.
Alex is a businessman in Miami for a short-term deal. He’s gruff and broody and hates socialising, but he has been dragged to Duality nightclub by a business associate. And his night takes a turn for the unexpected when he runs into a very unpleasant blast from his past.
Alex and Helen grew up together, they were friends on the verge of something more when they were torn apart. The circumstances of their parting led to a lot of anger and pain, and with both of them misunderstanding the other’s situation, 12 years apart has fostered a whole lot of hatred. They are furious with each other, but there is still a spark between them – an unforgotten attraction with a tinge of curiosity about each other, and though on the surface they want nothing to do with each other, neither of them can deny the pull.
Somewhere deep inside – so deep that I ignore it completely – I know nothing good can come from fucking Helen Blackwood. I can’t stand her and she hates me. But that mutual hate is fuelling my dick, because I can’t seem to walk away.
When Helen finds herself in trouble, it’s Alex who comes to her rescue, unable to stay away from her. She ends up working for him, putting them into close proximity and giving them the perfect opportunity to bicker and banter, and to slowly start to open up about their pasts, their feelings and their pain, and finally act on all of their pent-up sexual tension. But there is still so much between anger and pain between them, and it’s quite the tumultuous ride for them as they figure it all out.
This book moves at a really fast pace, and I felt that it was lacking some of the build-up and detail that I have come to expect from Halston’s writing. I wanted to explore these characters more, I wanted more chemistry, more opening up about feelings, more development of everything between them that would allow me to feel what was happening between them. Especially where Alex is concerned. He’s such a complex character, and I was so looking forward to exploring his harsh moodiness, instead it’s like we just scratched the surface of this complicated man, though the glimpses we did get to see of him opening up his heart were gorgeous.
She cups my cheek with one of her hands. Instantly, I feel better. I don’t know if she does, but I certainly do. It’s like I’m home. I’m where I need to be with who I need to be with. And it’s only a small touch. I wish I knew how to tell her that.
The set-up is there and we get glimpses of great romance, but as much as it hurts to say, this book feels like a missed opportunity for what could have been another awesome read in the series. Again, I thought the ending was a bit rushed and I would have liked to have seen a bit more detail, but it ends in a good (if somewhat cheesy) place.
“Being with you – whether we’re fighting or making love – is the most alive I have ever felt.”
So yeah, not my favourite of the series, but I’ll definitely be picking up more books if Halston writes them.
I liked it, just didn’t love it. 3 stars.
An Advanced Review Copy was generously provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
October 5, 2018
I loved the first two books in this series and really liked Sidney. I was looking forward to this book and felt oddly disappointed reading it. It took a total curve from the other previous books. Alex was not a likable character at all, then again he wasn't supposed to be. But after an entire book of his nonsense he wore me out. I have to idea why in the world Helen would even deal with him, another point of issue I had. Sure I get they had history, I also get that Alex hated her, her family and blamed her for everything that his family went through. It didn't matter what she's gone through or was going through, having to put up with Alex and his crap. He was like a mean dog and Helen was the bone. The positive was Alex was consistently a jerk and unlikable. Right to the very end. In my lowly humble opinion he didn't redeem himself. He was still the same selfish self centered jerk he was throughout the book. Not my favorite in the Panic series. Here's hoping the next book is better!
3.5 stars
arc from NetGalley and publisher for an honest review
3.5 stars
arc from NetGalley and publisher for an honest review
January 14, 2019
Thank you to NetGalley! I was given an ARC in exchange for my honest and independent review.
1.5 Stars
I wanted to like this story. I didn’t dislike it but I can’t say that I liked it all that well either. Not quite “okay” but not quite “meh”. Here’s why:
I wanted to like Helen. I felt bad for her bec of her background. But instead of admiring her grit, I ended up frustrated with her. There were so many times as I was reading that I wanted to yell at her so bad for the mess she found herself in with her ex.
SMH 🤦🏻♀️
I also wanted to like Alex. I usually like the bumbling and socially awkward H but I couldn’t find any enthusiasm or attraction to him.
And maybe this will be an unpopular opinion: but at one point, I had hoped that she’d go back to being a waitress and a semi-nude server at Duality instead of working for Alex as his PA. I wanted angst and drama and more of the dark and seediness of the club scene. Bec the 2nd half of the story, imo, had gotten “airbrushed” to a fairytale like quality that was almost too good to be true.
Sigh. Maybe the next book in this series will be a better read for me. (
is still my favorite.)
1.5 Stars
I wanted to like this story. I didn’t dislike it but I can’t say that I liked it all that well either. Not quite “okay” but not quite “meh”. Here’s why:
I wanted to like Helen. I felt bad for her bec of her background. But instead of admiring her grit, I ended up frustrated with her. There were so many times as I was reading that I wanted to yell at her so bad for the mess she found herself in with her ex.
SMH 🤦🏻♀️
I also wanted to like Alex. I usually like the bumbling and socially awkward H but I couldn’t find any enthusiasm or attraction to him.
And maybe this will be an unpopular opinion: but at one point, I had hoped that she’d go back to being a waitress and a semi-nude server at Duality instead of working for Alex as his PA. I wanted angst and drama and more of the dark and seediness of the club scene. Bec the 2nd half of the story, imo, had gotten “airbrushed” to a fairytale like quality that was almost too good to be true.
Sigh. Maybe the next book in this series will be a better read for me. (
is still my favorite.)
November 21, 2018
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
This is definitely a case of me, not it. I had a difficult time connecting with the main characters, Alex and Helen, in this one and didn't really feel the connection between the two of them either, other than a purely sexual one. I'm not sure where my disconnect stemmed from, but there was some basic thematic elements of the plot in the storyline with how certain things came to pass that were never really fully explained that left me frustrated. Again, I'm sure lots of people loved this one; and I'm bummed because usually enemies-to-lovers is my catnip and I was probably just having an off day and if I read it again, I'd probably love it. Who knows...
This is definitely a case of me, not it. I had a difficult time connecting with the main characters, Alex and Helen, in this one and didn't really feel the connection between the two of them either, other than a purely sexual one. I'm not sure where my disconnect stemmed from, but there was some basic thematic elements of the plot in the storyline with how certain things came to pass that were never really fully explained that left me frustrated. Again, I'm sure lots of people loved this one; and I'm bummed because usually enemies-to-lovers is my catnip and I was probably just having an off day and if I read it again, I'd probably love it. Who knows...
November 20, 2018
A second chance haunted by misunderstandings and anger…
I loved this emotion-fueled second chance romance that had Alex and Helen fighting their attraction and their past at every turn. They had a moment years ago, that was quickly overwhelmed by forces out of their control. Fast forward to now and their reunion churned with unresolved feelings, pain and anger…
Alex and Helen were strong, completely likable characters. They’d both dealt with tragedy and had very different perceptions of how events in the past played out. Alex had every right to resent Helen, who represented all the tragedy that marked his life. Helen was a survivor. Even though she couldn’t seem to catch a break she kept on fighting. Butting heads at every turn, Alex couldn’t get past blame and Helen struggled to reconcile memories that just didn’t jive.
Anger battled with forgiveness in a messy, jumbled and completely ‘get lost in the story’ romance.
December 18, 2018
Sidney Halston continues her Panic series with the tale of cantankerous billionaire Alex Archer and the woman who had once upon a time had been his youthful fantasy and in the blink of an eye became tantamount to pain and deceit.
Helen Blackwood was raised in high society amongst wealth, she wasn’t prepared to be homeless or work for minimum-wage, but she’s smart and resilient, a survivor. After many years she’s found a decent paying job pouring drinks at a nightclub, albeit half naked. She was ok with it though, until a blast from the past comes marching in, demanding she cover up and become his assistant. She hates him. She wants him. She also needs the money.
Alex had always been reserved, analytical, and serious. People shied away from him, except Helen. She understood him and could always coax a smile out of him. But when her family betrayed his and the backlash devastated his family, he could only hate her. But despite that loathing, he still wants to protect Helen and he can’t ignore his attraction to her. Can they get past all the ugliness and give love a second chance?
Halston has created another sizzling and engaging story worthy of her Panic series. What About Us has the perfect blend of drama, angst and seduction between the well-crafted characters that kept me turning pages from start to finish.
Alex is not an easy man to love, he comes off as cranky and difficult but his caring and protective actions towards Helen speak volumes. Helen on the other hand is so easily likeable. She’s been through so much through no fault of her own. She’s the underdog you love and can’t help but cheer for. Their chemistry is off the charts and doesn’t care about the past. I desperately wanted them to be able to work things out.
What About Us is a book #4 of the Panic series by Sidney Halston. It is a standalone, full-length contemporary romance with some drama and a lot of sexiness. Told from two points of view with a happy ending.
Amazon -> https://amzn.to/2QdCCSB
* I was given an ARC of this book courtesy of the author via NetGalley. I am voluntarily reviewing this title. *
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Helen Blackwood was raised in high society amongst wealth, she wasn’t prepared to be homeless or work for minimum-wage, but she’s smart and resilient, a survivor. After many years she’s found a decent paying job pouring drinks at a nightclub, albeit half naked. She was ok with it though, until a blast from the past comes marching in, demanding she cover up and become his assistant. She hates him. She wants him. She also needs the money.
Alex had always been reserved, analytical, and serious. People shied away from him, except Helen. She understood him and could always coax a smile out of him. But when her family betrayed his and the backlash devastated his family, he could only hate her. But despite that loathing, he still wants to protect Helen and he can’t ignore his attraction to her. Can they get past all the ugliness and give love a second chance?
Halston has created another sizzling and engaging story worthy of her Panic series. What About Us has the perfect blend of drama, angst and seduction between the well-crafted characters that kept me turning pages from start to finish.
Alex is not an easy man to love, he comes off as cranky and difficult but his caring and protective actions towards Helen speak volumes. Helen on the other hand is so easily likeable. She’s been through so much through no fault of her own. She’s the underdog you love and can’t help but cheer for. Their chemistry is off the charts and doesn’t care about the past. I desperately wanted them to be able to work things out.
What About Us is a book #4 of the Panic series by Sidney Halston. It is a standalone, full-length contemporary romance with some drama and a lot of sexiness. Told from two points of view with a happy ending.
Amazon -> https://amzn.to/2QdCCSB
* I was given an ARC of this book courtesy of the author via NetGalley. I am voluntarily reviewing this title. *
Stalk me on FaceBook * Twitter * Pinterest Book Teasers * More reviews
September 8, 2018
What about us was my first story by Sidney Halston and now I will be on the look out for future books! I loved that both Alex and Helen were strong characters who did not back down. I loved Alex's quirky personality and that Helen stayed strong and true to herself. The secondary characters were great as well! I can't wait for Monique and Bradley's story! I also can't wait to hear more about Duality and Iggy, Matt and Nick. Then there is Gina. So many stories to look forward too!
November 18, 2018
4 stars-
ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date November 20, 2018
Irresistible beats and tantalizing bodies heat up the night at South Beach’s most scandalous new club.
Alex: I hate doing business in clubs. Especially one like Duality. I’m here to seal a deal, not indulge in whatever hedonistic illusion they’re selling. Until, through all the skin and sex on display, I see her. Helen Blackwood. The girl who once filled my youthful fantasies, whose name is now synonymous with pain. Her father’s lies destroyed my family, leaving me with nothing to lose. And yet I can’t deny my electric response to her touch . . . or my urge to protect her when I see the bruise on her face.
Helen: Growing up, life prepared me for society galas and powerful men, not minimum-wage jobs or drunk exes with anger issues. But I’m a survivor. So here I am, practically naked, serving drinks at a Miami nightclub. I don’t mind the stares. Apparently, Alex Archer does. After twelve years, we aren’t exactly friends, but money is something we both understand. Something he knows I need. I’ll be his personal assistant, even if it means working with the man I hate . . . and the man I still want.
No cheating. No cliffhangers. And no dress code.
•••••••••
REVIEW: WHAT ABOUT US is the fourth instalment in Sidney Halston’s contemporary, adult PANIC erotic, romance series focusing on the men and women who work and own the high-end night club Panic, and its’ subsidiary Club Duality. This is thirty-five year old, billionaire business investor Alex Archer, and thirty-year old, cocktail waitress Helen Blackwood’s story line. WHAT ABOUT US can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story lines is revealed where necessary.
Told from dual first person perspectives (Alex and Helen) WHAT ABOUT US focuses on the second chance relationship between thirty-five year old, billionaire business investor Alex Archer, and thirty-year old, cocktail waitress Helen Blackwood. Twelve years earlier on the day of her eighteenth birthday Helen Blackwood’s life imploded –with her father in jail, and our heroine homeless and alone, our heroine made her way to Florida in the hopes of starting over where no one knew about her past. Fast forward to present day wherein Helen, now a cocktail waitress for a high-end night club comes face to face with her past, a past that blames everything on our story line heroine. Enter billionaire Alex Archer, and the man that Helen has never stopped loving. What ensues is the rebuilding but acrimonious relationship between Helen and Alex, and the potential fall-out as Alex struggles to let go of the past.
Helen Blackwood once lived a life of privilege but everything came crashing down the day her father was arrested and charged with fraud. Struggling to survive, Helen would find herself hungry and homeless on more than one occasion. Having never forgotten about the boy who got away, life would come full-circle when said boy, now a man, makes it his mission to destroy everything Helen has struggled to achieve. Alex Archer couldn’t believe that Helen Blackwood had fallen so far. The only friend and girl to give the young socially awkward Alex a second look, Helen’s circumstances had definitely changed, a change Alex didn’t believe no matter how hard he tried.
The relationship between Alex and Helen is one of second chances; a rekindling relationship damaged by the ‘sins of the father’, sins Alex struggles to accept and forgive. Alex’s attitude towards Helen is vindictive and cruel as our heroine struggles not only with her attraction to a man who despises her existence, but battles a personal h*ll back home. The $ex scenes are erotic, passionate and intense.
The colorful secondary and supporting characters include Helen’s best friend Gina, and her father Edward Blackwood; Alex’s best friend and CFO of Archer Technologies Bradley, and his PA Monique Adler , as well as Alex’s mother Doris Archer. We are re-introduced to nightclub owners Nick (Pull Me Close #1) and Matt Moreno (Make Me Stay #2), as well as a number of security and construction crews.
WHAT ABOUT US is a story of family, friendship, betrayal and lies. The premise is emotional, heart breaking and encouraging; the characters are charismatic, but embittered survivors; the romance is a second chance for two people to move on from the past. WHAT ABOUT US is a sexy, energetic and captivating story where the sins of the father destroy everything in its path.
www.thereadingcafe.com
copy supplied by Netgalley
ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date November 20, 2018
Irresistible beats and tantalizing bodies heat up the night at South Beach’s most scandalous new club.
Alex: I hate doing business in clubs. Especially one like Duality. I’m here to seal a deal, not indulge in whatever hedonistic illusion they’re selling. Until, through all the skin and sex on display, I see her. Helen Blackwood. The girl who once filled my youthful fantasies, whose name is now synonymous with pain. Her father’s lies destroyed my family, leaving me with nothing to lose. And yet I can’t deny my electric response to her touch . . . or my urge to protect her when I see the bruise on her face.
Helen: Growing up, life prepared me for society galas and powerful men, not minimum-wage jobs or drunk exes with anger issues. But I’m a survivor. So here I am, practically naked, serving drinks at a Miami nightclub. I don’t mind the stares. Apparently, Alex Archer does. After twelve years, we aren’t exactly friends, but money is something we both understand. Something he knows I need. I’ll be his personal assistant, even if it means working with the man I hate . . . and the man I still want.
No cheating. No cliffhangers. And no dress code.
•••••••••
REVIEW: WHAT ABOUT US is the fourth instalment in Sidney Halston’s contemporary, adult PANIC erotic, romance series focusing on the men and women who work and own the high-end night club Panic, and its’ subsidiary Club Duality. This is thirty-five year old, billionaire business investor Alex Archer, and thirty-year old, cocktail waitress Helen Blackwood’s story line. WHAT ABOUT US can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story lines is revealed where necessary.
Told from dual first person perspectives (Alex and Helen) WHAT ABOUT US focuses on the second chance relationship between thirty-five year old, billionaire business investor Alex Archer, and thirty-year old, cocktail waitress Helen Blackwood. Twelve years earlier on the day of her eighteenth birthday Helen Blackwood’s life imploded –with her father in jail, and our heroine homeless and alone, our heroine made her way to Florida in the hopes of starting over where no one knew about her past. Fast forward to present day wherein Helen, now a cocktail waitress for a high-end night club comes face to face with her past, a past that blames everything on our story line heroine. Enter billionaire Alex Archer, and the man that Helen has never stopped loving. What ensues is the rebuilding but acrimonious relationship between Helen and Alex, and the potential fall-out as Alex struggles to let go of the past.
Helen Blackwood once lived a life of privilege but everything came crashing down the day her father was arrested and charged with fraud. Struggling to survive, Helen would find herself hungry and homeless on more than one occasion. Having never forgotten about the boy who got away, life would come full-circle when said boy, now a man, makes it his mission to destroy everything Helen has struggled to achieve. Alex Archer couldn’t believe that Helen Blackwood had fallen so far. The only friend and girl to give the young socially awkward Alex a second look, Helen’s circumstances had definitely changed, a change Alex didn’t believe no matter how hard he tried.
The relationship between Alex and Helen is one of second chances; a rekindling relationship damaged by the ‘sins of the father’, sins Alex struggles to accept and forgive. Alex’s attitude towards Helen is vindictive and cruel as our heroine struggles not only with her attraction to a man who despises her existence, but battles a personal h*ll back home. The $ex scenes are erotic, passionate and intense.
The colorful secondary and supporting characters include Helen’s best friend Gina, and her father Edward Blackwood; Alex’s best friend and CFO of Archer Technologies Bradley, and his PA Monique Adler , as well as Alex’s mother Doris Archer. We are re-introduced to nightclub owners Nick (Pull Me Close #1) and Matt Moreno (Make Me Stay #2), as well as a number of security and construction crews.
WHAT ABOUT US is a story of family, friendship, betrayal and lies. The premise is emotional, heart breaking and encouraging; the characters are charismatic, but embittered survivors; the romance is a second chance for two people to move on from the past. WHAT ABOUT US is a sexy, energetic and captivating story where the sins of the father destroy everything in its path.
www.thereadingcafe.com
copy supplied by Netgalley
November 16, 2018
~~I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads ~~
This is the fourth book in the series. I would say that it has links to the previous books, but could be read as a standalone. That said, the others are excellent, so don't miss out! Helen works for the guys we have met in the previous books, and they are protective of her.
Alex and Helen have a difficult past, the say the least, so meeting after 12 years brings up all manner of bad memories. As we learn in the story, their versions of what happened vary dramatically, and until they can reconcile their feelings with the truth, they are destined to always feel a disconnect. I really enjoyed how Sidney Halston led them both to the facts that they needed to listen to, and the truth they needed to face. It was beautifully done, especially for Helen and her relationship with her father.
The strength of their sexual attraction and chemistry clashed so well with Gabe's distrust and Helen's disappointment. Add in Luke, and the mess that was, and the scene is set for a hot, fast paced and yet thought provoking romance. A very good addition to the series, thank you.
This is the fourth book in the series. I would say that it has links to the previous books, but could be read as a standalone. That said, the others are excellent, so don't miss out! Helen works for the guys we have met in the previous books, and they are protective of her.
Alex and Helen have a difficult past, the say the least, so meeting after 12 years brings up all manner of bad memories. As we learn in the story, their versions of what happened vary dramatically, and until they can reconcile their feelings with the truth, they are destined to always feel a disconnect. I really enjoyed how Sidney Halston led them both to the facts that they needed to listen to, and the truth they needed to face. It was beautifully done, especially for Helen and her relationship with her father.
The strength of their sexual attraction and chemistry clashed so well with Gabe's distrust and Helen's disappointment. Add in Luke, and the mess that was, and the scene is set for a hot, fast paced and yet thought provoking romance. A very good addition to the series, thank you.
November 26, 2018
Sidney Halston sure does know how to write a story. Helen and Alex had history that ended with them both only knowing part of each other’s story. Helen blamed Alex for not standing by her in her time of need and Alex blamed Helen for his father’s death. When chance throws them together at the same club the feelings they had for each other come out. Alex becomes protective and alpha male, Helen tried to remain self-reliant and proud. Sparks fly, tempers flare, and feelings are hurt.
I am new to the Panic series but picked up What About Us and didn’t miss a beat. The characters were wonderful, the storyline was amazing, and it all came together perfectly. I loved the second-chance romance, the reliving of the past, and the learning of their future.
This is a book that I recommend picking up. I am excited to read the rest of the series and find out the story behind some of the other characters.
I am new to the Panic series but picked up What About Us and didn’t miss a beat. The characters were wonderful, the storyline was amazing, and it all came together perfectly. I loved the second-chance romance, the reliving of the past, and the learning of their future.
This is a book that I recommend picking up. I am excited to read the rest of the series and find out the story behind some of the other characters.
November 11, 2018
I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads, here is my review.
Growing up together, Alex and Helen were told by their parents that they would one day be married. But when their worlds come crashing down around them, they lose touch with each other.
Years later Alex finds Helen working in a bar in Miami and he can't understand why when she has all that money from her family. The hatred he feels is consuming him but the protection he feels towards her is overpowering the hatred.
Helen can't believe her eyes, after all these years he finally shows up and he wants to take her from her job. Why didn't he try to protect her when she needed him. Now she doesn't need him, she can take care of herself. But the feelings she has for him has come back in full force.
Can Alex see the truth about her and how she has lived the last 10 years? Will Helen see the truth about her father? Can Helen and Alex move on from the past and have a future together?
I really liked this series and love Alex and Helen but would have liked more of the others from the past books. This story was really good and you could feel the pain that Alex and Helen were going through and I found myself rooting for them to win in the end. You can read this one without reading the rest in the series but I would suggest reading them all, it is a great series. So sit back and enjoy it, I have.
Growing up together, Alex and Helen were told by their parents that they would one day be married. But when their worlds come crashing down around them, they lose touch with each other.
Years later Alex finds Helen working in a bar in Miami and he can't understand why when she has all that money from her family. The hatred he feels is consuming him but the protection he feels towards her is overpowering the hatred.
Helen can't believe her eyes, after all these years he finally shows up and he wants to take her from her job. Why didn't he try to protect her when she needed him. Now she doesn't need him, she can take care of herself. But the feelings she has for him has come back in full force.
Can Alex see the truth about her and how she has lived the last 10 years? Will Helen see the truth about her father? Can Helen and Alex move on from the past and have a future together?
I really liked this series and love Alex and Helen but would have liked more of the others from the past books. This story was really good and you could feel the pain that Alex and Helen were going through and I found myself rooting for them to win in the end. You can read this one without reading the rest in the series but I would suggest reading them all, it is a great series. So sit back and enjoy it, I have.
November 15, 2018
I have truly loved the entire Panic series by Sydney Halston, and I loved this story just as much, if not more. All of these stories are standalone so if this would be your first in the series, you won’t feel lost. In fact, in all honesty, I almost feel as if this book is a spinoff of the actual Panic series. The first books centered around the bar Duality, and the people who ran the bar. This book has the bar as the initial background, but then spins off with this couple. Alex and Helen have a past but it was not always a good one and lots of bad feelings emanated due to certain circumstances. Helen was a survivor and as I read the book, I was rooting for her all the way. I wanted this couple to work, but I didn’t want it to be too easy or trite, and it really wasn’t. For me, this was a great story. Thanks to Ms. Halston and I look forward to her next story.
November 20, 2018
What About Us is the fourth book in the Panic series from this author but it is a complete standalone. In fact I was hoping to catch up with some of the characters from previous books but that didn't happen. This story is about Alex Archer and Helen Blackwood. Teenage loves who everyone thought would go the distance. Unfortunately their world imploded when Helen's father's ponzi scheme cost Alex's family as well as many others almost everything. Twelve years later and Alex has worked hard to get his family back to where they were. Then he sees Helen working in Miami's latest hot night club Duality and everything changes. She's working just trying to get by. He's outraged and ready for revenge. Yet there is a chemistry between them that has sparks flying. You'll want to read this fantastic story of hate, revenge, understanding and ultimately love. I highly recommend it.
October 23, 2018
I didn’t realize what I requested this that it was #4 in a series. I’ve never read anything by this author before and it wasn’t too bad. I didn’t feel lost or anything but I am intrigued about this club, it sounds cool. I thought Helen and Alex were a pretty good couple. Poor Helen went through some crazy stuff because of her father and ex. But she didn’t let that ruin her life, she got through it the best way she knew how. I might check out the other books in this series to see what’s up with the club.
September 4, 2018
Alex and Helen grew up together - families were close friends. Then something happens that tears them apart. Alex hates Helen and her father for what he believes happened after the event. Helen was just sad about what happened after the event.
12 years later, Alex sees Helen working in a bar and he is drawn to her, but still hates her. Because of this, he acts cold towards her even though Helen (at first) seems excited to see him. A few weeks later, Alex seeks her out at the same bar and sees her half naked. He demands she quits, but when she refuses, he hires her as his personal assistant.
And next thing you know, they become lovers. So this is basically a friends to lovers book.
Very well written. Held my attention to the point of me reading it in one day. I could not put it down.
This book does not appear to be part of a series.
This is not my first book by this author.
12 years later, Alex sees Helen working in a bar and he is drawn to her, but still hates her. Because of this, he acts cold towards her even though Helen (at first) seems excited to see him. A few weeks later, Alex seeks her out at the same bar and sees her half naked. He demands she quits, but when she refuses, he hires her as his personal assistant.
And next thing you know, they become lovers. So this is basically a friends to lovers book.
Very well written. Held my attention to the point of me reading it in one day. I could not put it down.
This book does not appear to be part of a series.
This is not my first book by this author.
September 25, 2019
#4 in the Panic romance series
Thanks to NetGalley for a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I just love this series because it's a little different from the usual romance genre in that there's always a character who is challenged or flawed in some way. In this case, Alex is extremely socially awkward. Although he's been very successful in business, he has a hard time dealing with people, considered to be cold and calculating. But Helen has always been able to see beneath the surface to the vulnerable man underneath. Even as children growing up together, she had a crush on him. Now, after 12 years and a lot of bitterness due to her father's major criminal act and its reflection on her, they accidently meet again and all their chemistry resurfaces. Their interaction is intense and passionate. They really complemented each other, bringing out the best in each other, sometimes bringing out the worst too, with lots of arguments and stubbornness. The story was interesting and filled with action. Alex sometimes annoyed me with his volatility and unthinking behavior, but he meant well and I tried to keep that in mind. I'd say that things wound up a little too perfectly at the end, but I was expecting a happy ending, and this book delivered. I definitely hope this series will continue.
Thanks to NetGalley for a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I just love this series because it's a little different from the usual romance genre in that there's always a character who is challenged or flawed in some way. In this case, Alex is extremely socially awkward. Although he's been very successful in business, he has a hard time dealing with people, considered to be cold and calculating. But Helen has always been able to see beneath the surface to the vulnerable man underneath. Even as children growing up together, she had a crush on him. Now, after 12 years and a lot of bitterness due to her father's major criminal act and its reflection on her, they accidently meet again and all their chemistry resurfaces. Their interaction is intense and passionate. They really complemented each other, bringing out the best in each other, sometimes bringing out the worst too, with lots of arguments and stubbornness. The story was interesting and filled with action. Alex sometimes annoyed me with his volatility and unthinking behavior, but he meant well and I tried to keep that in mind. I'd say that things wound up a little too perfectly at the end, but I was expecting a happy ending, and this book delivered. I definitely hope this series will continue.
September 10, 2018
4.5 stars!
This has been my favorite so far. I had so many feelings reading this book!! These two characters complemented eachother so well and they both have such distinct personalities and complex background. So far this has been my favorite of the series and not just becuase it follows my favorite trope (hate to love romance) but becuase everything just felt right. The tender moments where great and the way the relationship developed was so organic and I really liked that. I highly recommend this book for any romance reader out there!
This has been my favorite so far. I had so many feelings reading this book!! These two characters complemented eachother so well and they both have such distinct personalities and complex background. So far this has been my favorite of the series and not just becuase it follows my favorite trope (hate to love romance) but becuase everything just felt right. The tender moments where great and the way the relationship developed was so organic and I really liked that. I highly recommend this book for any romance reader out there!
September 2, 2018
Alex likes to give his woman pep talks, "I kiss her soundly. “You don’t take any **** from anyone, you hear me? Anyone says anything offensive, you come and tell me, immediately. You feel uncomfortable, we leave. No questions asked.” I liked this book, I loved Alex.
September 1, 2018
So good! My heart hurts!
October 31, 2018
I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.
This book is set on the edge of the other books in the series. I was hoping for more interaction between the main characters in this book and those of the previous books.
The premise of this book is good, but at the same time, I think it left some ideas unexplored. In this day and age, I find it somewhat confusing for people, especially those with money, not to keep track of people they believe did them wrong.
As for Helen, I can't believe she didn't keep up with her family's former friends, or even googled the crimes her father was accused of. Her ex also causes a lot of drama which she tries to deal with on her own.
As for Alex and Helen's romance, I did like their interactions between them, how she didn't give up her independence and how Alex came to respect her choices.
~~Wicked Reads Review Team~~
This book is set on the edge of the other books in the series. I was hoping for more interaction between the main characters in this book and those of the previous books.
The premise of this book is good, but at the same time, I think it left some ideas unexplored. In this day and age, I find it somewhat confusing for people, especially those with money, not to keep track of people they believe did them wrong.
As for Helen, I can't believe she didn't keep up with her family's former friends, or even googled the crimes her father was accused of. Her ex also causes a lot of drama which she tries to deal with on her own.
As for Alex and Helen's romance, I did like their interactions between them, how she didn't give up her independence and how Alex came to respect her choices.
~~Wicked Reads Review Team~~
October 20, 2018
I'm pretty certain this book won't be for everyone. The main characters are a bit tough to take and do little to endear the reader to them. I also found the beginning a bit rough and it took me a while to get into the story.
There is a lot of push-pull between Alex and Helen, and some of it doesn't always make complete sense. They have difficult backgrounds that they both had to overcome their own ways.
There is never much explanation of how Alex became outrageously wealthy after having lost just about everything. I kept waiting for the punchline that never came as far as explaining this. I also wondered how a homeless girl (Helen) managed to hang onto to a suitcase that saved her future.
Alex and Helen have a shared history and a definitely sad background. They distrust each other at the same time as they are attracted to each other. It generally comes across as over the top.
I actually finally started to enjoy the story somewhere around the middle of the book, but the ending let me down again. So I'm waffling between 2 and 3 stars.
Just as she did in her previous book in this series, a parent had to do something completely out of character in order for the story to have its HEA. In this case, Alex's mother goes from being a cartoonish character to one who will defy her friends with a steely backbone she instantly develops. Sorry. Nope. I'm not convinced.
I think it's time to retire this series. It started out great and ended up with a whimper. It had potential, but it ended up too much of a fairy tale for me.
Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC given in exchange for my honest review.
There is a lot of push-pull between Alex and Helen, and some of it doesn't always make complete sense. They have difficult backgrounds that they both had to overcome their own ways.
There is never much explanation of how Alex became outrageously wealthy after having lost just about everything. I kept waiting for the punchline that never came as far as explaining this. I also wondered how a homeless girl (Helen) managed to hang onto to a suitcase that saved her future.
Alex and Helen have a shared history and a definitely sad background. They distrust each other at the same time as they are attracted to each other. It generally comes across as over the top.
I actually finally started to enjoy the story somewhere around the middle of the book, but the ending let me down again. So I'm waffling between 2 and 3 stars.
Just as she did in her previous book in this series, a parent had to do something completely out of character in order for the story to have its HEA. In this case, Alex's mother goes from being a cartoonish character to one who will defy her friends with a steely backbone she instantly develops. Sorry. Nope. I'm not convinced.
I think it's time to retire this series. It started out great and ended up with a whimper. It had potential, but it ended up too much of a fairy tale for me.
Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC given in exchange for my honest review.
November 29, 2018
What About Us by Sidney Halston
Book #4: Panic Series
Source: NetGalley
My Rating: 5/5 stars
I read an early copy of What About Us and quite cleverly saved my notes from that initial reading. Here’s what I discovered following my second reading: I LOVED this book just as much the second time around as I did the first time through.
What I thought and noted about this book initially holds true even after round two. Here’s the low down from my original notes:
CHARACTERS:
ALEX: Even with his crazy, often thoughtless comments, Alex is so likeable; in fact, he is my favorite character in this book. I really felt Alex’s struggle and frustration with this inability to say what he means with Helen. With that being said, I very much appreciated how Alex felt like he could be himself in all his glorious awkwardness with Helen, even when it meant having to apologize, and apologize often.
I like how shaken up Alex is by Helen! Alex’s whole life was clear, defined, and ordered until Helen showed up again. Helen’s reappearance took Alex’s goals, agendas, and general control of his life and shot it all to hell. Talk about ass over tea kettle! Causing Alex to reorder his life and break out of his rut is exactly what he needed! Though his business goals are always going to be the same, his personal goals changed radically and that’s what he, as a character needed!
P.S. In my head, Alex wears nerdy, sexy glasses!
HELEN: Helen is one of my favorite character types; a lot of bad s*%t has happened to her, but she doesn’t feel sorry for herself. In fact, after a tremendously bad period, Helen took what life handed her, dealt with it, and has made something of her life. Though she doesn’t live to the standards she was once used to, she has a life she can mostly be proud of. Mostly!
PLOT AND CONFLICT: I absolutely love the relationship between Helen and Alex. They have so much anger, misunderstanding, and miscommunication to overcome, but there is a base of love there too. This story absolutely would not have worked if there weren’t a very real history between Helen and Alex. One of my favorite parts of their relationship is how often they fight and make up. So much conflict here!
This book reads exactly as it is meant to, slow and steady (in a GOOD way) with moments of crazy, both good and bad. The entirety of this book revolves around Helen and Alex coming face to face with their past, dealing with some hard truths, and accepting how wrong they have both been. That takes time and watching two people with such a complicated history get their s*%t squared away shouldn’t happen at the speed of light. The characters and the plot demand a slow and steady pace and that is exactly what they have.
The fighting and making up worked so well in this story! The sex is as explosive as the arguments and that always makes for a good time. Helen’s acceptance of Alex and his awkwardness works well too; I like that she accepts him even in the moments when she is raging mad at him. I also very much appreciate Alex’s self-doubt! He is clearly a successful businessman with tons of confidence, but Helen rattles him, and he has to reassess how he deals with humanity. This was helped along by Helen helping him get to know his staff which was a scene that really resonated with me.
In so many ways, the best part of this book involves the reactions Helen and Alex have to one another and the situation they find themselves in. The plot initially asks Helen and Alex to react the way they would while still on their own, and then, to react as they should as a couple. This is where we see a lot of character growth. Alex must learn to think before he speaks, to accept that not every situation in life can be fixed with money, and Helen has to learn to accept help when and where it is offered. Furthermore, we also see Helen and Alex having to get over themselves, really listen to the other person, and let go the awful past they both endured.
DIALOGUE: It’s funny how large a role dialogue plays in this book since Alex has such a terrible time with words. You can see so much growth in Alex through the dialogue . . . . but, his fights with Helen and getting himself into trouble with his words were probably my favorite bits of dialogue.
I always love good dialogue and this book is filled with it! I am particularly fond of the fight scenes as Helen and Alex both say a lot of stupid stuff and then must apologize for it later. Probably my favorite bit of dialogue in the entire book is Helen’s response to the two uppity b%&ches who are talking about her in the bathroom during the gala; she held it together well and put them in their place. I also liked it when Helen put Alex in his place 😊
PACING: This story is something of a slow burn read . . . . and that’s a good thing! There are bursts of action and high drama, but much of the read a steady pace which allows the reader to watch two people figure out their lives together. Outside of those few bursts of crazy, there doesn’t need to be a breakneck speed, rush to get to the end. I appreciate how the pacing of this book matches the characters!
THE BOTTOM LINE: At this point, do you really need the bottom line?? 😊 Clearly, I adored this book, it’s characters, and plot and make no bones about it. Though I liked Helen quite a bit, Alex is hands down my favorite character. His awkwardness, his nerdiness, his intellect, all wrapped in super sexy body is just too good to ignore. At its core, this book is all about a complicated, complex relationship that is peppered with anger, hurt feelings, misunderstandings, and mistrust. There is so much, emotionally speaking, that Alex and Helen must overcome to achieve their HEA and they sure work hard to do so. I really did enjoy this story! I didn’t rush through it but read it slowly and really savored this read. In point of fact, my reading speed quite mimicked the overall pacing of the book. I wouldn’t mind seeing Helen and Alex appear in later installments of the series. Now that they are officially together, they feel like they can be a real powerhouse kind of couple, do a lot of good in their community/world. In a lot of ways, I feel like this book is just the beginning of Alex and Helen’s story which is ironic, given their long history.
Book #4: Panic Series
Source: NetGalley
My Rating: 5/5 stars
I read an early copy of What About Us and quite cleverly saved my notes from that initial reading. Here’s what I discovered following my second reading: I LOVED this book just as much the second time around as I did the first time through.
What I thought and noted about this book initially holds true even after round two. Here’s the low down from my original notes:
CHARACTERS:
ALEX: Even with his crazy, often thoughtless comments, Alex is so likeable; in fact, he is my favorite character in this book. I really felt Alex’s struggle and frustration with this inability to say what he means with Helen. With that being said, I very much appreciated how Alex felt like he could be himself in all his glorious awkwardness with Helen, even when it meant having to apologize, and apologize often.
I like how shaken up Alex is by Helen! Alex’s whole life was clear, defined, and ordered until Helen showed up again. Helen’s reappearance took Alex’s goals, agendas, and general control of his life and shot it all to hell. Talk about ass over tea kettle! Causing Alex to reorder his life and break out of his rut is exactly what he needed! Though his business goals are always going to be the same, his personal goals changed radically and that’s what he, as a character needed!
P.S. In my head, Alex wears nerdy, sexy glasses!
HELEN: Helen is one of my favorite character types; a lot of bad s*%t has happened to her, but she doesn’t feel sorry for herself. In fact, after a tremendously bad period, Helen took what life handed her, dealt with it, and has made something of her life. Though she doesn’t live to the standards she was once used to, she has a life she can mostly be proud of. Mostly!
PLOT AND CONFLICT: I absolutely love the relationship between Helen and Alex. They have so much anger, misunderstanding, and miscommunication to overcome, but there is a base of love there too. This story absolutely would not have worked if there weren’t a very real history between Helen and Alex. One of my favorite parts of their relationship is how often they fight and make up. So much conflict here!
This book reads exactly as it is meant to, slow and steady (in a GOOD way) with moments of crazy, both good and bad. The entirety of this book revolves around Helen and Alex coming face to face with their past, dealing with some hard truths, and accepting how wrong they have both been. That takes time and watching two people with such a complicated history get their s*%t squared away shouldn’t happen at the speed of light. The characters and the plot demand a slow and steady pace and that is exactly what they have.
The fighting and making up worked so well in this story! The sex is as explosive as the arguments and that always makes for a good time. Helen’s acceptance of Alex and his awkwardness works well too; I like that she accepts him even in the moments when she is raging mad at him. I also very much appreciate Alex’s self-doubt! He is clearly a successful businessman with tons of confidence, but Helen rattles him, and he has to reassess how he deals with humanity. This was helped along by Helen helping him get to know his staff which was a scene that really resonated with me.
In so many ways, the best part of this book involves the reactions Helen and Alex have to one another and the situation they find themselves in. The plot initially asks Helen and Alex to react the way they would while still on their own, and then, to react as they should as a couple. This is where we see a lot of character growth. Alex must learn to think before he speaks, to accept that not every situation in life can be fixed with money, and Helen has to learn to accept help when and where it is offered. Furthermore, we also see Helen and Alex having to get over themselves, really listen to the other person, and let go the awful past they both endured.
DIALOGUE: It’s funny how large a role dialogue plays in this book since Alex has such a terrible time with words. You can see so much growth in Alex through the dialogue . . . . but, his fights with Helen and getting himself into trouble with his words were probably my favorite bits of dialogue.
I always love good dialogue and this book is filled with it! I am particularly fond of the fight scenes as Helen and Alex both say a lot of stupid stuff and then must apologize for it later. Probably my favorite bit of dialogue in the entire book is Helen’s response to the two uppity b%&ches who are talking about her in the bathroom during the gala; she held it together well and put them in their place. I also liked it when Helen put Alex in his place 😊
PACING: This story is something of a slow burn read . . . . and that’s a good thing! There are bursts of action and high drama, but much of the read a steady pace which allows the reader to watch two people figure out their lives together. Outside of those few bursts of crazy, there doesn’t need to be a breakneck speed, rush to get to the end. I appreciate how the pacing of this book matches the characters!
THE BOTTOM LINE: At this point, do you really need the bottom line?? 😊 Clearly, I adored this book, it’s characters, and plot and make no bones about it. Though I liked Helen quite a bit, Alex is hands down my favorite character. His awkwardness, his nerdiness, his intellect, all wrapped in super sexy body is just too good to ignore. At its core, this book is all about a complicated, complex relationship that is peppered with anger, hurt feelings, misunderstandings, and mistrust. There is so much, emotionally speaking, that Alex and Helen must overcome to achieve their HEA and they sure work hard to do so. I really did enjoy this story! I didn’t rush through it but read it slowly and really savored this read. In point of fact, my reading speed quite mimicked the overall pacing of the book. I wouldn’t mind seeing Helen and Alex appear in later installments of the series. Now that they are officially together, they feel like they can be a real powerhouse kind of couple, do a lot of good in their community/world. In a lot of ways, I feel like this book is just the beginning of Alex and Helen’s story which is ironic, given their long history.
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