“Act the way you’d like to be and soon you’ll be the way you’d like to act.” ― Bob Dylan
Title: Hot Mess
Author: Rowan McAllister
Publisher: Dreamspinner Press
Pages/Word Count: 200
Rating: 5 Stars
Blurb: Too much partying and self-inflicted trouble have left Cameron Lacey’s life a complete mess. But he’s determined to change, and he’ll do anything to keep a roof over his head until he gets himself together. When he’s introduced to Sam Powell, he can’t believe Sam will let him stay without expecting anything in return—in Cameron’s world, nothing is free. Realizing Sam’s bleeding heart is exactly as it appears throws Cameron for a loop… and completely head over heels. Unfortunately, old habits die hard.
Cameron’s demons rear their ugly heads, leading to a series of backsliding disasters and fumbled attempts by Sam to save Cameron from bad choices. As Cameron struggles to become who he wants to be instead of who he is, he also comes to hope Sam will discover that what’s right for him might not be what he’s looking for—but who he already has.
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Review: I’ve never read anything by this author before. I’ve seen her name around and have heard such wonderful things about her writing. After reading the blurb to Hot Mess, I was really excited to get a chance to finally read Rowan McAllister.
Wow, what a great story. We never know who will come into our lives when we need them the most. This story takes us on a journey of two people who were at a crossroads in their life. One searching for stability and the other wanting acceptance. What they both didn’t realize was that what they need is right in front of them.
I took an instant liking to Sam from the start. He was such a great character. He was so nice and loving, an all around absolutely wonderful person.
I enjoyed the camaraderie between Sam and Cameron. When things were going well, they settled into a comfortable routine, reminiscent of a marriage or a long time friendship. It was frustrating for me to know these two were perfect for each other, and not have them know it. I just wanted both of them to acknowledge what they were feeling for each other.
I really enjoyed the flow of the story. The author didn’t let these two get a quick fix. They both had to work out their feelings on their own. I believe the slow build up was done intentionally by the author so we would come to know and love these characters. It was done to perfection. I loved not knowing until the bitter end if Sam and Cameron were actually going to be together. It was a nice surprise.
The most interesting and my favorite part was watching Cameron’s personal growth. I was a little worried about him at the beginning. Left on his own, I don’t think he would have made it. Knowing he had people who really cared about him made a huge impact on his life. It made him want to be a better person, to just get everything in his world set straight.
Overall, this story was all about second chances, in life and in love. Highly recommend.
You can buy Hot Mess here:
