Now and Then (Now #1)
Release Date: 08/04/13
Summary from Goodreads:
Now Emmaline Carson is a sharp, settled graphic designer who loves painting, cooking and girls’ night out with her older sister Layla. But then – in the years before she went to art school in Paris – she was a shy, awkward teenager with frizzy hair, a flat chest and a massive crush on the boy across the street, Cole Marlowe. Too bad her incredibly hot neighbor only had eyes for Layla.
Cole is now a confident, laid-back attorney who’s even hotter than he used to be. He’s planning to stay single while working his way up the corporate ladder – until he’s knocked off course by a chance run-in with Emma.
Everything is different between Cole and Emma now. He finally sees her in a way she only dreamed of, and their hot chemistry is fueled by a growing friendship. But Emma’s deception of her sister – who wants Cole for herself – and the secret Cole’s been keeping for more than a decade threaten to tear apart what’s only just begun. Because sometimes the only thing standing in the way of now is then.
**Warning: This book contains adult language and sexual subject matter that is not suitable for some readers. Recommended for 17+.
Another aspect of the the way this story is put together is the alternating POVs. I'm really becoming a big fan of this style when it works, and Now and Then is really a great example. Having both Cole and Emma's perspective really accentuates the book, and the reader can experience their story more fully.
There's also the great sibling rivalry. Emma and Layla have some serious rivalry going on, but it's subtle. It's not this huge, looming aspect of their relationship. At least not visibly. They each have a different view of the way their relationship is designed, and by not getting Layla's POV, the author creates some deep sympathy for Emma. But the tension this creates with Cole and Emma is the central focus of the book, and the author writes these emotions really well. You really get invested in their relationship, and even get extremely frustrated with the characters at times.
Of course, I have to mention the explosive sex involved in this book, because well, that's incredibly important! The chemistry between Cole and Emma is steamy and well written. These types of scenes are difficult to write, but the author does a nice job of keeping away from cliches and creating a realistic sexual scenario. I mean, I wouldn't mind having Cole Marlowe in my bed, so why not invite him to your kindle? You certainly won't regret spending the evening with him! (And it's not cheating if he's fictional!)
About the Author
Brenda Rothert lives in Central Illinois with her husband and three sons. She was a daily print journalist for nine years, during which time she enjoyed writing a wide range of stories.
These days Brenda writes New Adult Romance in the Contemporary and Dystopian genres.
Author Links
GIVEAWAY
10 e-books of Now and Then (INT)
