What do you think?
Rate this book
Breakthrough
Kennedy Wells is desperate to get back her dream job writing for Mainstream, Waters Publishing’s celebrity magazine. She’s worked too hard over the years to have it snatched away because of one tiny indiscretion that ended with a giant lawsuit. After five months of writing mind-numbing articles about current events, her boss agrees to let her get back to reporting on the rich and famous after one last story.
A born and bred city girl, Kennedy is sent to cover fishing in Alaska, which has her feeling just like a fish out of water. When Brynn Coleman, director of Alaska’s Wildlife Rescue and Sanctuary, comes to her rescue time after time, Kennedy can’t help but lower her guard and open herself up to Brynn’s standoffish charm. Falling for the sexy ranger is one thing, but is the possibility of love worth giving up a career she’s always dreamed of?
Cover Artist: Kris Bryant and Sheri Halal
Genres: Contemporary / Romance
Words: 68,400
A born and bred city girl, Kennedy is sent to cover fishing in Alaska, which has her feeling just like a fish out of water. When Brynn Coleman, director of Alaska’s Wildlife Rescue and Sanctuary, comes to her rescue time after time, Kennedy can’t help but lower her guard and open herself up to Brynn’s standoffish charm. Falling for the sexy ranger is one thing, but is the possibility of love worth giving up a career she’s always dreamed of?
Cover Artist: Kris Bryant and Sheri Halal
Genres: Contemporary / Romance
Words: 68,400
240 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 1, 2018
57 people are currently reading
573 people want to read
About the author
Kris Bryant
28 books716 followersPodcast with Tara Scott at queerlyrecommended.com
Multi-award winning author Kris Bryant was born in Tacoma, WA but has lived all over the world and now considers Kansas City her home. She received her B.A. in English from the University of Missouri and spends a lot of her time buried in books. She enjoys hiking, photography, spending time with her family, and her dog, Molly (who gets more attention than she does on Facebook).
Her first novel, Jolt, was a Lambda Literary Finalist. Forget Me Not was selected by the American Library Association's 2018 Over the Rainbow book list and was a Golden Crown Finalist for Contemporary Romance. Breakthrough won a 2019 Goldie for Contemporary Romance. Listen won a 2020 Goldie for Contemporary Romance. Temptation won a 2021 Goldie for Contemporary Romance. Not Guilty written under Bryant's pen name - Brit Ryder - won a 2022 Goldie for Erotica. Kris can be reached at krisbryantbooks@gmail or ww.krisbryant.net, @krisbryant14.
Jolt - ebook, paperback, audiobook
Whirlwind Romance - ebook, paperback
Just Say Yes (Novella in the wedding series) - ebook only
Taste - ebook, paperback, audiobook
Forget Me Not - ebook, paperback
Shameless (written as Brit Ryder) - ebook, audiobook
Girl Next Door Anthology - "Dog Day of Summer" - ebook, paperback
Touch - ebook, paperback, audiobook
Breakthrough - ebook, paperback, audiobook
Against All Odds - ebook, paperback, audiobook
Travel Anthology (short by Brit Ryder) - ebook, paperback
Listen - ebook, paperback, audiobook
Falling - ebook, paperback, audiobook
Tinsel - ebook, audiobook
Temptation - ebook, paperback, audiobook
Lucky - ebook, paperback, audiobook
Home - ebook, paperback, audiobook
Scent - ebook, paperback, audiobook
Not Guilty writing as Brit Ryder - ebook, paperback (audiobook in the works)
Always - ebook, paperback, audiobook
Forever - ebook, paperback, audiobook
Stranded Hearts (with Amanda Radley & Emily Smith) - ebook, paperback
Serendipity - ebook, paperback, audiobook
Multi-award winning author Kris Bryant was born in Tacoma, WA but has lived all over the world and now considers Kansas City her home. She received her B.A. in English from the University of Missouri and spends a lot of her time buried in books. She enjoys hiking, photography, spending time with her family, and her dog, Molly (who gets more attention than she does on Facebook).
Her first novel, Jolt, was a Lambda Literary Finalist. Forget Me Not was selected by the American Library Association's 2018 Over the Rainbow book list and was a Golden Crown Finalist for Contemporary Romance. Breakthrough won a 2019 Goldie for Contemporary Romance. Listen won a 2020 Goldie for Contemporary Romance. Temptation won a 2021 Goldie for Contemporary Romance. Not Guilty written under Bryant's pen name - Brit Ryder - won a 2022 Goldie for Erotica. Kris can be reached at krisbryantbooks@gmail or ww.krisbryant.net, @krisbryant14.
Jolt - ebook, paperback, audiobook
Whirlwind Romance - ebook, paperback
Just Say Yes (Novella in the wedding series) - ebook only
Taste - ebook, paperback, audiobook
Forget Me Not - ebook, paperback
Shameless (written as Brit Ryder) - ebook, audiobook
Girl Next Door Anthology - "Dog Day of Summer" - ebook, paperback
Touch - ebook, paperback, audiobook
Breakthrough - ebook, paperback, audiobook
Against All Odds - ebook, paperback, audiobook
Travel Anthology (short by Brit Ryder) - ebook, paperback
Listen - ebook, paperback, audiobook
Falling - ebook, paperback, audiobook
Tinsel - ebook, audiobook
Temptation - ebook, paperback, audiobook
Lucky - ebook, paperback, audiobook
Home - ebook, paperback, audiobook
Scent - ebook, paperback, audiobook
Not Guilty writing as Brit Ryder - ebook, paperback (audiobook in the works)
Always - ebook, paperback, audiobook
Forever - ebook, paperback, audiobook
Stranded Hearts (with Amanda Radley & Emily Smith) - ebook, paperback
Serendipity - ebook, paperback, audiobook
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 107 reviews
April 16, 2018
4.25 Stars. I’m a fan of Bryant, so I always look forward to reading her books. I’m happy to say this book was much better than her last two. This book is getting back to the Bryant I know and enjoy. I think romance fans and Bryant fans are going to be very happy with this one.
The story is about a Kennedy, a city girl reporter, venturing to Alaska for a few stories. She is unprepared for the wilds of Alaska and soon finds herself in need of rescuing from Ranger Brynn. While the attraction is immediate, neither woman is really looking for a relationship. Alaska has other plans in mind and makes sure to keep putting the two of them together. Can Kennedy survive Alaska or might it just capture her heart?
Alaska is such a wonderful setting to place a story in. The wildlife and breath taking views, Bryant used Alaska perfectly in this book. Going there is on my bucket list, and Bryant just made me want to visit even more. In Bryant’s book Forget Me Not, I didn’t think she used the beautiful setting of Ireland to the benefit of the book. This book she absolutely did and brought the beauty of Alaska to life.
Kennedy, as a character, was not immediately likeable for me. But what I really liked it she grew through the whole book. By the time the book was done, I realized I really did like the “new” version of her. The other main Brynn is pretty much the perfect butch character. Talk, dark and handsome, with a great heart. The two of them made a convincing and likable pair. I was also happy with how steamy the sex scenes were. These two had a lot of chemistry in and out of the bedroom.
Besides the fantastic setting, one of the best pets in a lesfic book, and the good romance, this book also had a little bit of excitement. I don’t want to give away what happens, but it was just exciting enough, that it kept me happily turning the pages. This is mostly a romance, but the little bit of excitement was just a cherry on top.
As I said before, this was a big step up for me from Bryant’s last two books. This is the kind of good story I expect when I read her books. I’m really happy that Bryant is back and I think romance fans are going to be happy too. I can’t wait to see what she writes next.
P.S. I just wanted to add, I don’t think the cover does the book justice. There is nothing wrong with the cover. It looks to be the Alaska state flower breaking out of the snow. I get the symbolism and it is perfectly fine. I just think with the breath taking views and wildlife of Alaska, the cover should be something encompassing that beauty. I’m just worried people won’t be as attracted to this book as they should be.
An ARC was given to me by BSB, for a honest review.
The story is about a Kennedy, a city girl reporter, venturing to Alaska for a few stories. She is unprepared for the wilds of Alaska and soon finds herself in need of rescuing from Ranger Brynn. While the attraction is immediate, neither woman is really looking for a relationship. Alaska has other plans in mind and makes sure to keep putting the two of them together. Can Kennedy survive Alaska or might it just capture her heart?
Alaska is such a wonderful setting to place a story in. The wildlife and breath taking views, Bryant used Alaska perfectly in this book. Going there is on my bucket list, and Bryant just made me want to visit even more. In Bryant’s book Forget Me Not, I didn’t think she used the beautiful setting of Ireland to the benefit of the book. This book she absolutely did and brought the beauty of Alaska to life.
Kennedy, as a character, was not immediately likeable for me. But what I really liked it she grew through the whole book. By the time the book was done, I realized I really did like the “new” version of her. The other main Brynn is pretty much the perfect butch character. Talk, dark and handsome, with a great heart. The two of them made a convincing and likable pair. I was also happy with how steamy the sex scenes were. These two had a lot of chemistry in and out of the bedroom.
Besides the fantastic setting, one of the best pets in a lesfic book, and the good romance, this book also had a little bit of excitement. I don’t want to give away what happens, but it was just exciting enough, that it kept me happily turning the pages. This is mostly a romance, but the little bit of excitement was just a cherry on top.
As I said before, this was a big step up for me from Bryant’s last two books. This is the kind of good story I expect when I read her books. I’m really happy that Bryant is back and I think romance fans are going to be happy too. I can’t wait to see what she writes next.
P.S. I just wanted to add, I don’t think the cover does the book justice. There is nothing wrong with the cover. It looks to be the Alaska state flower breaking out of the snow. I get the symbolism and it is perfectly fine. I just think with the breath taking views and wildlife of Alaska, the cover should be something encompassing that beauty. I’m just worried people won’t be as attracted to this book as they should be.
An ARC was given to me by BSB, for a honest review.
May 9, 2018
Can someone turn this into a lesbian Lifetime movie?
After reading this book I walked away with a crush on both main characters and a raccoon! Why is it always so difficult to review a book that I love? I've been staring at my screen wondering how to convey just how good this book is. Do I start with my love for city slicker Kennedy who just like me is allergic to all things nature and bugs related? Or do I talk about Brynn, the raccoon loving, damsel in distress saving, ranger with a heart of gold?
Maybe I should just mention how funny this book is because of all the crazy things that happen to Kennedy. This walking disaster in couture seems to have the worst luck of anyone to have ever set foot in Alaska. If she's not upsetting the local wildlife she's probably being the cause of Brynn turning grey prematurely.
I guess it's a good thing that Brynn is a total sweetheart and they have great chemistry. Seriously though these two are such a good pairing. I loved the banter between them but when Brynn turns on the charm make sure you have a cold drink nearby, you'll need it as these two are scorching hot together.
I really can't say enough about this book. It's well written with great characters, full of hilarious situations, sweet moments and just a little bit of angst. Did I also mention there's a pet raccoon? Don't miss out on reading this. Full 5*!
After reading this book I walked away with a crush on both main characters and a raccoon! Why is it always so difficult to review a book that I love? I've been staring at my screen wondering how to convey just how good this book is. Do I start with my love for city slicker Kennedy who just like me is allergic to all things nature and bugs related? Or do I talk about Brynn, the raccoon loving, damsel in distress saving, ranger with a heart of gold?
Maybe I should just mention how funny this book is because of all the crazy things that happen to Kennedy. This walking disaster in couture seems to have the worst luck of anyone to have ever set foot in Alaska. If she's not upsetting the local wildlife she's probably being the cause of Brynn turning grey prematurely.
I guess it's a good thing that Brynn is a total sweetheart and they have great chemistry. Seriously though these two are such a good pairing. I loved the banter between them but when Brynn turns on the charm make sure you have a cold drink nearby, you'll need it as these two are scorching hot together.
I really can't say enough about this book. It's well written with great characters, full of hilarious situations, sweet moments and just a little bit of angst. Did I also mention there's a pet raccoon? Don't miss out on reading this. Full 5*!
April 24, 2019
Oh Kris Bryant , my new and somehow very late discovery ! What a wonderful romance !
I fell in love with Kennedy and her clumsiness ! The nice thing about this book is that it has a hint of action which spiced it up a bit :)
I fell in love with Kennedy and her clumsiness ! The nice thing about this book is that it has a hint of action which spiced it up a bit :)
July 6, 2019
4 Stars for this “Fish out of Water” romance.
After Kennedy Wells was taken off her dream job as a writer for a celebrity magazine, she is given a chance to return if she will write an interview with reality TV star, Dustin Collings about deep sea fishing for their sister publication, A&A (Antlers & Anglers). They want someone with Kennedy’s talent to write the celebrity piece. Kennedy reluctantly agrees to go to Alaska for the interview, in spite of her being a big city girl who is more comfortable in Prada heels and cashmere than boots and wool sweaters.
She quickly discovers that Anchorage is not Los Angeles. She picks a rental Lexus sedan instead of the offered SVU. She decides explore and take a drive but she gets lost and proceeds to accidentally scare a moose and her calf. The moose retaliates by sitting on her Lexus, refusing to move. Kennedy is rescued by park ranger and director of Alaskan Wildlife Rescue & Sanctuary, Brynn Coleman. And so begins the instant attraction between the two women and Kennedy’s knack for finding herself in situations (many humorous) requiring rescue by the ever vigilant Brynn.
I really enjoyed this romance. Watching Kennedy find herself in the wrong place at the wrong time - it makes you wonder what will she do now? But slowly she discovers the beauty of Alaska and its people. She interviews fisherman and locals while becoming friends with a few and more than friends with her protector, the mysterious, and attractive Brynn. In lesser hands, Kennedy could have easily been unlikable, instead I found her likable and terribly unlucky, that is if you discount meeting Brynn.
Brynn to Kennedy: “You are the most tenacious woman I’ve ever met. I mean that in a good way. Even though it’s been so rough for you here and you had the worst luck of any other person I’ve ever known, you haven’t stopped. You’ve adjusted, and moved forward. Every single time. It’s fantastic.”
I also loved Brynn’s “pet” raccoon, Wally. I had a racoon in the house a couple of times. He/she was easily 30+lbs. They discovered the cat door and would raid the cat food in my kitchen. In the middle of the night I was startled awake by a large bang. Cats? No, they are sitting on the edge of my bed, obviously frightened. Some watch cats they are. I go out there and discover a racoon eating the cat food. The scamp was able to open the dry cat food metal storage container! I yell and shoo him out the patio door with a broom. That was the last time the cat door was open.
I would love to *visit* Alaska. This book was a way to visit vicariously through Kennedy. As a native So. Californian, the one cruise I would love to take is an Alaska cruise. That says something because I don’t do boats. I get nauseous on floating piers. So instead I watch “The Last Alaskans” TV series and visit my nephew and family in Colorado every Christmas. That’s as cold as I’m willing to get. (I did live on the East Coast for a few years but when that job ended, I immediately came home). If I ever do get to visit, I’m certain (I hope) it would be with less drama and I doubt I’d meet anyone like Brynn.
After Kennedy Wells was taken off her dream job as a writer for a celebrity magazine, she is given a chance to return if she will write an interview with reality TV star, Dustin Collings about deep sea fishing for their sister publication, A&A (Antlers & Anglers). They want someone with Kennedy’s talent to write the celebrity piece. Kennedy reluctantly agrees to go to Alaska for the interview, in spite of her being a big city girl who is more comfortable in Prada heels and cashmere than boots and wool sweaters.
She quickly discovers that Anchorage is not Los Angeles. She picks a rental Lexus sedan instead of the offered SVU. She decides explore and take a drive but she gets lost and proceeds to accidentally scare a moose and her calf. The moose retaliates by sitting on her Lexus, refusing to move. Kennedy is rescued by park ranger and director of Alaskan Wildlife Rescue & Sanctuary, Brynn Coleman. And so begins the instant attraction between the two women and Kennedy’s knack for finding herself in situations (many humorous) requiring rescue by the ever vigilant Brynn.
I really enjoyed this romance. Watching Kennedy find herself in the wrong place at the wrong time - it makes you wonder what will she do now? But slowly she discovers the beauty of Alaska and its people. She interviews fisherman and locals while becoming friends with a few and more than friends with her protector, the mysterious, and attractive Brynn. In lesser hands, Kennedy could have easily been unlikable, instead I found her likable and terribly unlucky, that is if you discount meeting Brynn.
Brynn to Kennedy: “You are the most tenacious woman I’ve ever met. I mean that in a good way. Even though it’s been so rough for you here and you had the worst luck of any other person I’ve ever known, you haven’t stopped. You’ve adjusted, and moved forward. Every single time. It’s fantastic.”
I also loved Brynn’s “pet” raccoon, Wally. I had a racoon in the house a couple of times. He/she was easily 30+lbs. They discovered the cat door and would raid the cat food in my kitchen. In the middle of the night I was startled awake by a large bang. Cats? No, they are sitting on the edge of my bed, obviously frightened. Some watch cats they are. I go out there and discover a racoon eating the cat food. The scamp was able to open the dry cat food metal storage container! I yell and shoo him out the patio door with a broom. That was the last time the cat door was open.
I would love to *visit* Alaska. This book was a way to visit vicariously through Kennedy. As a native So. Californian, the one cruise I would love to take is an Alaska cruise. That says something because I don’t do boats. I get nauseous on floating piers. So instead I watch “The Last Alaskans” TV series and visit my nephew and family in Colorado every Christmas. That’s as cold as I’m willing to get. (I did live on the East Coast for a few years but when that job ended, I immediately came home). If I ever do get to visit, I’m certain (I hope) it would be with less drama and I doubt I’d meet anyone like Brynn.
November 19, 2019
Well, who’d have thought that Breakthrough would be the best novel Kris Bryant has ever published! I am not shy to admit that I’m probably Bryant’s biggest fan. She’s had this way of drawing me in from the get-go on all her books and I’d be lying if I said this book drew me in as much because truly, Breakthrough is better, unbelievably so. She has raised the bar with this novel and 5-star reviews frankly, no longer cut it… because it was worth much more.
Breakthrough follows main protagonist, Kennedy to Alaska on a writing assignment for her boss in a bid to get her back into the good graces and finally start writing what she loves again after a scandal sent her back to the bottom of the beloved magazine. She arrives in Alaska and has run-in after run-in with the wildlife, locals and the very handsome, Brynn. Brynn is perfect in so many ways but unfortunately, she lives in Alaska and Kennedy is desperate to return to the city and her beloved job. Brynn doesn’t do casual but her attraction to Kennedy is taunting her. So it’s better that they stay friends… right?
If there was ever a novel I’d want to act out this is the one. I’d happily play Kennedy’s part and go through all her clumsiness to be close to Brynn. Brynn is this handsome, androgynous Wildlife Director and she is such a gentlewoman, I was a little crazy for her to be honest. At first, her stand-off nature and the walls she carefully had placed around her heart intrigued me but as Kennedy knocked each of her walls down it was like revealing new and more alluring facets of her already beautiful personality.
Kennedy was just fun. She brought the light and fun to this book that no other character could do but her. Her personality and clumsiness made me chuckle more than a few times but what really made me love her was her chemistry with Brynn, it was palpable. Also, I can’t not mention my favourite character from the book, Wally. I won’t tell you much about him but look out for him because he’ll steal the show.
The sex scenes as per usual blew me away and really connected the characters on another level. It made the chemistry increase and both Kennedy and Brynn’s love really shone in those moments. Kris Bryant still writes the best sex scenes for me… every single time, wow.
Reading this book as made me add Alaska to my ‘Must See’ travel list. Alaska almost felt like a third protagonist because of how it was beautiful one minute and throwing poor Kennedy around the next. I really saw its beauty and breathtaking landscape through Bryant’s words.
All in all, this is an exceptional book that has a few twists and turns that catch you out and make you wish the book would never end. I was captivated from the beginning and can’t wait to see how Bryant will top this.
5 stars
Breakthrough follows main protagonist, Kennedy to Alaska on a writing assignment for her boss in a bid to get her back into the good graces and finally start writing what she loves again after a scandal sent her back to the bottom of the beloved magazine. She arrives in Alaska and has run-in after run-in with the wildlife, locals and the very handsome, Brynn. Brynn is perfect in so many ways but unfortunately, she lives in Alaska and Kennedy is desperate to return to the city and her beloved job. Brynn doesn’t do casual but her attraction to Kennedy is taunting her. So it’s better that they stay friends… right?
If there was ever a novel I’d want to act out this is the one. I’d happily play Kennedy’s part and go through all her clumsiness to be close to Brynn. Brynn is this handsome, androgynous Wildlife Director and she is such a gentlewoman, I was a little crazy for her to be honest. At first, her stand-off nature and the walls she carefully had placed around her heart intrigued me but as Kennedy knocked each of her walls down it was like revealing new and more alluring facets of her already beautiful personality.
Kennedy was just fun. She brought the light and fun to this book that no other character could do but her. Her personality and clumsiness made me chuckle more than a few times but what really made me love her was her chemistry with Brynn, it was palpable. Also, I can’t not mention my favourite character from the book, Wally. I won’t tell you much about him but look out for him because he’ll steal the show.
The sex scenes as per usual blew me away and really connected the characters on another level. It made the chemistry increase and both Kennedy and Brynn’s love really shone in those moments. Kris Bryant still writes the best sex scenes for me… every single time, wow.
Reading this book as made me add Alaska to my ‘Must See’ travel list. Alaska almost felt like a third protagonist because of how it was beautiful one minute and throwing poor Kennedy around the next. I really saw its beauty and breathtaking landscape through Bryant’s words.
All in all, this is an exceptional book that has a few twists and turns that catch you out and make you wish the book would never end. I was captivated from the beginning and can’t wait to see how Bryant will top this.
5 stars
December 3, 2018
. “Where am I going? Channel Islands? San Diego? Baja?” I wracked my brain and listed off all of the ocean fishing near LA. “Anchorage, Alaska,” Erin said. “Are you fucking kidding me?"
Okay, raise your hands if you want to spend 3/4 weeks in Alaska accompanied/rescued by a sexy, butch ranger with a lean muscular body and full to die for kissable red lips.
A romance with a side of adventure in Alaska between a born/bred Cali lady and the local hottie, featuring the beautiful landscape of Alaska, its famous animals and Brynn Coleman. What an irresistible combo..
Ms.Bryant nailed it with the built-up to their first kiss - first intimate scene. I was as excited as Kennedy when those scenes finally happened and pretty sure that the temperature in Alaska increased when they finally hit the sink... Sighs.. Kennedy, I was certain that most of the readers + myself were envious of you.
Loads of page time for the hs accompanied by a good story and a glimpse into their future.
Okay, raise your hands if you want to spend 3/4 weeks in Alaska accompanied/rescued by a sexy, butch ranger with a lean muscular body and full to die for kissable red lips.
A romance with a side of adventure in Alaska between a born/bred Cali lady and the local hottie, featuring the beautiful landscape of Alaska, its famous animals and Brynn Coleman. What an irresistible combo..
Ms.Bryant nailed it with the built-up to their first kiss - first intimate scene. I was as excited as Kennedy when those scenes finally happened and pretty sure that the temperature in Alaska increased when they finally hit the sink... Sighs.. Kennedy, I was certain that most of the readers + myself were envious of you.
Loads of page time for the hs accompanied by a good story and a glimpse into their future.
May 6, 2018
I am so glad that I gave this a shot because I was really hesitant after ‘Touch.’ I’ve liked most of Bryant’s works, but that one made me wonder. After reading a lot of great reviews, I gave in to ‘Breakthrough’ and I’m so happy that I did.
After some business-mixed-with-pleasure drama, journalist Kennedy is sent to Alaska to do a piece on a reality star. She’s reluctant because she’s crazy...seriously, who wouldn’t want to go to Alaska?! Anyway, there is a world of difference between Los Angeles and Anchorage and our protagonist’s learning curve is steep. Luckily, Brynn is around to save her ass from trouble at every turn.
There is a wee bit of drama in this story, which has nothing to do with the romance. It’s merely another circumstance that Brynn needs to save Kennedy from and it brings them closer to one another in the process.
Kennedy is a city girl that I couldn’t really relate to, but loved nonetheless. She actually grows a lot in two-hundred-some-odd pages, which is always a pleasure to experience. There’s a lesson here and she learns it. Brynn, on the other hand, is a rugged butch without many faults. Still, it was nice to get some background on her (since neither is she a native Alaskan) and learn that her experiences weren’t always perfect, either.
All in all, I liked these two together and individually. There is some minor miscommunication, but it felt authentic when thinking about their circumstances from the perspective of a new relationship. There is good chemistry here, physical and emotional both, and some passion to keep fans of steam happy.
This is pure romance and it’s well written, so if that’s your thing, then I recommend this wholeheartedly.
After some business-mixed-with-pleasure drama, journalist Kennedy is sent to Alaska to do a piece on a reality star. She’s reluctant because she’s crazy...seriously, who wouldn’t want to go to Alaska?! Anyway, there is a world of difference between Los Angeles and Anchorage and our protagonist’s learning curve is steep. Luckily, Brynn is around to save her ass from trouble at every turn.
There is a wee bit of drama in this story, which has nothing to do with the romance. It’s merely another circumstance that Brynn needs to save Kennedy from and it brings them closer to one another in the process.
Kennedy is a city girl that I couldn’t really relate to, but loved nonetheless. She actually grows a lot in two-hundred-some-odd pages, which is always a pleasure to experience. There’s a lesson here and she learns it. Brynn, on the other hand, is a rugged butch without many faults. Still, it was nice to get some background on her (since neither is she a native Alaskan) and learn that her experiences weren’t always perfect, either.
All in all, I liked these two together and individually. There is some minor miscommunication, but it felt authentic when thinking about their circumstances from the perspective of a new relationship. There is good chemistry here, physical and emotional both, and some passion to keep fans of steam happy.
This is pure romance and it’s well written, so if that’s your thing, then I recommend this wholeheartedly.
April 16, 2018
Kennedy Wells is sent off to Anchorage, as continued penance for an indiscretion, to interview a celebrity who wants to do a reality fishing show. A total city-slicker, her disastrous first day in Alaska is brightened only by her rescuer: tall, gorgeous wildlife ranger, Brynn Coleman.
I’m a fan of Bryant and I’ve been waiting impatiently since Taste and I relieved to say that this did not disappoint. Kennedy’s unashamed and blatant cluelessness about the outdoors is hysterical. It also serves to highlight how ill-suited she and Brynn are. I thought that this was all there would be to the story but I was wrong and the suspense that wove itself into the plot was a wonderful surprise. I liked that Kennedy was aware of how incompetent she was in the wilds but that she was also there to do a job and would do it to the best of her ability.
Brynn was a bit more of a dark horse and mostly because of the first person point of view being all Kennedy. I don’t mind this viewpoint but it does mean limited insight into the other characters. The chemistry between them is palpable and the sex scenes steamy. I had a couple of misgivings about Brynn’s backstory and the way Kennedy felt the issues could be resolved but to go into that would be an unnecessary spoiler.
This is a good, well-paced read and easy to recommend.
Book received from Netgalley and Bold Strokes Books for an honest review.
I’m a fan of Bryant and I’ve been waiting impatiently since Taste and I relieved to say that this did not disappoint. Kennedy’s unashamed and blatant cluelessness about the outdoors is hysterical. It also serves to highlight how ill-suited she and Brynn are. I thought that this was all there would be to the story but I was wrong and the suspense that wove itself into the plot was a wonderful surprise. I liked that Kennedy was aware of how incompetent she was in the wilds but that she was also there to do a job and would do it to the best of her ability.
Brynn was a bit more of a dark horse and mostly because of the first person point of view being all Kennedy. I don’t mind this viewpoint but it does mean limited insight into the other characters. The chemistry between them is palpable and the sex scenes steamy. I had a couple of misgivings about Brynn’s backstory and the way Kennedy felt the issues could be resolved but to go into that would be an unnecessary spoiler.
This is a good, well-paced read and easy to recommend.
Book received from Netgalley and Bold Strokes Books for an honest review.
May 9, 2018
ARC received from NetGalley for a fair review.
5 stars! Really enjoyed this one. Such a breath of fresh air after uncountable insecurity driven books. It's lovely to read about two strong women finding each other. And I love nature so that's another thing I enjoyed amongst the ocean of city-based stories.
Usually, I don't like first person view but this time it was used really well and I think it's even one of those rare occasions when it fits better than anything else. Kennedy's misadventures in the Alaskan wildlife were funny and her reaction to all that's happening even more so. And Wally is my spirit animal.
Overall a really enjoyable, light read. Recommended for everyone!
Merged review:
ARC received from NetGalley for a fair review.
5 stars! Really enjoyed this one. Such a breath of fresh air after uncountable insecurity driven books. It's lovely to read about two strong women finding each other. And I love nature so that's another thing I enjoyed amongst the ocean of city-based stories.
Usually, I don't like first person view but this time it was used really well and I think it's even one of those rare occasions when it fits better than anything else. Kennedy's misadventures in the Alaskan wildlife were funny and her reaction to all that's happening even more so. And Wally is my spirit animal.
Overall a really enjoyable, light read. Recommended for everyone!
5 stars! Really enjoyed this one. Such a breath of fresh air after uncountable insecurity driven books. It's lovely to read about two strong women finding each other. And I love nature so that's another thing I enjoyed amongst the ocean of city-based stories.
Usually, I don't like first person view but this time it was used really well and I think it's even one of those rare occasions when it fits better than anything else. Kennedy's misadventures in the Alaskan wildlife were funny and her reaction to all that's happening even more so. And Wally is my spirit animal.
Overall a really enjoyable, light read. Recommended for everyone!
Merged review:
ARC received from NetGalley for a fair review.
5 stars! Really enjoyed this one. Such a breath of fresh air after uncountable insecurity driven books. It's lovely to read about two strong women finding each other. And I love nature so that's another thing I enjoyed amongst the ocean of city-based stories.
Usually, I don't like first person view but this time it was used really well and I think it's even one of those rare occasions when it fits better than anything else. Kennedy's misadventures in the Alaskan wildlife were funny and her reaction to all that's happening even more so. And Wally is my spirit animal.
Overall a really enjoyable, light read. Recommended for everyone!
July 8, 2019
Ah!! This book was so good! I'm so happy a few of you really pushed me to pick it up sooner rather than later because it was everything I wanted and everything I needed. It was funny and sweet with a little bit of angst (not between the two MCs though, so bonus!). Kennedy and Brynn had such great chemistry. I love it. and Wally!
June 25, 2018
What a wonderful and funny romance.
When Kennedy, the epitome of a city girl who barely knew what nature means, other than a beach, is sent to Alaska for an interview and a story about fishing, she thinks her boss is joking. But no, she’s not. This setting is just fantastic. From the first day in Alaska, Kennedy, one of the best celebrity journalist from California, is entirely out of her element and finds herself in more trouble than she likes. But there is one bonus in Alaska, her name Brynn.
The director of Alaska’s Wildlife Rescue, Brynn Coleman, more than once rescues not only animals in distress but also a journalist in distress. While there is an immediate attraction between the two women, it’s not instant love. As opposites attract, tall and gorgeous Brynn is Kennedys perfect match.
What I liked most, was how Kennedy reflects on her life. How she comprehends, that her life in California is extremely superficial and that she’s capable to change her mind. I like her ability to laugh at herself as a city girl in the rough nature. And there was Wally, Brynn’s amazing and funny pet.
The romance is wonderful, without angst but some push and pull with two great main characters. The chemistry was there from the beginning, despite the different personalities. The sex scenes are hot and steamy. And the story contains also some excitement. I also love the setting in Alaska, it’s one of my dream destinations, I hope, I will be able to visit one day.
I highly recommend this book to all romance fans.
My rating 4.5 stars
When Kennedy, the epitome of a city girl who barely knew what nature means, other than a beach, is sent to Alaska for an interview and a story about fishing, she thinks her boss is joking. But no, she’s not. This setting is just fantastic. From the first day in Alaska, Kennedy, one of the best celebrity journalist from California, is entirely out of her element and finds herself in more trouble than she likes. But there is one bonus in Alaska, her name Brynn.
The director of Alaska’s Wildlife Rescue, Brynn Coleman, more than once rescues not only animals in distress but also a journalist in distress. While there is an immediate attraction between the two women, it’s not instant love. As opposites attract, tall and gorgeous Brynn is Kennedys perfect match.
What I liked most, was how Kennedy reflects on her life. How she comprehends, that her life in California is extremely superficial and that she’s capable to change her mind. I like her ability to laugh at herself as a city girl in the rough nature. And there was Wally, Brynn’s amazing and funny pet.
The romance is wonderful, without angst but some push and pull with two great main characters. The chemistry was there from the beginning, despite the different personalities. The sex scenes are hot and steamy. And the story contains also some excitement. I also love the setting in Alaska, it’s one of my dream destinations, I hope, I will be able to visit one day.
I highly recommend this book to all romance fans.
My rating 4.5 stars
September 24, 2019
I can't even begin to describe the jealousy I felt of MC Kennedy's run in with a mama moose and her baby about 7 minutes after landing in Alaska. I spent over a week in Newfoundland, land of moose, and did not see one and you better buh-LIEVE I was on eagle eye duty. It was basically my life dream, people. Guess I gotta go to Alaska. But man was that a hilarious scene, I actually was that person on the subway that laughed out loud.
Also, since we are on the topic of wildlife, raccoons are and will continue to be the spawn of satan. There is no way a raccoon would "gently take" someone's hand in a light grip and gaze at you to show their devotion. No, they would rip your eyeballs out and snack on them for breakfast while taking your stinky garbage up to your roof to have a rave with all their friends while you attempt to sleep below. Wally is a figment of imagination, people!
A decent fun read by Ms. Bryant. I loved the setting of Alaska, and the pairing of the two MCs was fairly random but unique, something I do enjoy in the formulaic realm of lesfic. Did I feel the sparks between the two? Not really. I liked that Kennedy did seem to have her own "breakthrough" as to what is important in life, but it was quite the stretch from glitzy glamourous LA. Ah well, I just went with it.
However, I had a hard time with the "saviour" cape Brynn threw on at every opportunity, it became too much too quickly. It felt like she didn't give Kennedy a chance to be strong and assertive, as she'd get all upset every time Kennedy went off on her own. Buck up, Brynn. I had to knock of a full star for this, it felt like a masculine cliche of "gotta save the frail l'il lady" mentality that had me cringing.
These issues aside, I did enjoy the overall story, it's not going to change your world but is a light read, and was good to finish up on a plane ride. :) 3/5.
Also, since we are on the topic of wildlife, raccoons are and will continue to be the spawn of satan. There is no way a raccoon would "gently take" someone's hand in a light grip and gaze at you to show their devotion. No, they would rip your eyeballs out and snack on them for breakfast while taking your stinky garbage up to your roof to have a rave with all their friends while you attempt to sleep below. Wally is a figment of imagination, people!
A decent fun read by Ms. Bryant. I loved the setting of Alaska, and the pairing of the two MCs was fairly random but unique, something I do enjoy in the formulaic realm of lesfic. Did I feel the sparks between the two? Not really. I liked that Kennedy did seem to have her own "breakthrough" as to what is important in life, but it was quite the stretch from glitzy glamourous LA. Ah well, I just went with it.
However, I had a hard time with the "saviour" cape Brynn threw on at every opportunity, it became too much too quickly. It felt like she didn't give Kennedy a chance to be strong and assertive, as she'd get all upset every time Kennedy went off on her own. Buck up, Brynn. I had to knock of a full star for this, it felt like a masculine cliche of "gotta save the frail l'il lady" mentality that had me cringing.
These issues aside, I did enjoy the overall story, it's not going to change your world but is a light read, and was good to finish up on a plane ride. :) 3/5.
April 29, 2018
Romance story with the beautiful setting of Alaska. Kennedy Wells is an LA based showbiz journalist sent to Alaska to write an article on fishing after a scandal almost finished her career. Feeling completely out of her comfort zone, she gets into trouble almost immediately and is saved by sexy ranger Brynn Coleman who introduces Kennedy to the vibrant wildlife and breathtaking landscape of the 49th state. Kennedy slowly falls for both Brynn and Alaska but her home and career are back in LA. Will they have a happily ever after?
Written in first person from the point of view of Kennedy, Brynn appears as the epitome of the stoic butch and enigmatic knight in shining armour ready to save Kennedy from her blunders but at the same time, unwilling to open up to her. Ms. Bryant plays well with a few contrasts such as butch - femme, outdoors girl - city girl, hot LA - cold Alaska, all done with wittiness, humour and sizzling chemistry. Nature takes a big role in this book sometimes acting as a beautiful background of the romance, other times at the forefront raising issues such as illegal hunting, wildlife conservation or environment protection. Even though this is mainly a romance novel, there is a mystery subplot that adds a bit of fast-paced action that keeps the reader turning pages. Add a cute atypical "puppy" to the mix and the result is a very enjoyable story.
Overall, a very entertaining romance with a bit of fast-paced action. 4.5 stars.
ARC provided by Netgalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
See all my reviews at
www.lezreviewbooks.wordpress.com
Written in first person from the point of view of Kennedy, Brynn appears as the epitome of the stoic butch and enigmatic knight in shining armour ready to save Kennedy from her blunders but at the same time, unwilling to open up to her. Ms. Bryant plays well with a few contrasts such as butch - femme, outdoors girl - city girl, hot LA - cold Alaska, all done with wittiness, humour and sizzling chemistry. Nature takes a big role in this book sometimes acting as a beautiful background of the romance, other times at the forefront raising issues such as illegal hunting, wildlife conservation or environment protection. Even though this is mainly a romance novel, there is a mystery subplot that adds a bit of fast-paced action that keeps the reader turning pages. Add a cute atypical "puppy" to the mix and the result is a very enjoyable story.
Overall, a very entertaining romance with a bit of fast-paced action. 4.5 stars.
ARC provided by Netgalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
See all my reviews at
www.lezreviewbooks.wordpress.com
May 19, 2018
I really enjoyed this book. I like how the author described Alaska beautifully, the nature, wildlife and animal recuers. It just made me want to apply for the job. I love nature but i dont think i can survive and being helpful when i afraid of bugs and insects that roaming and crawling around the forest. 😱
I like both main characters. The chemistry between them were obvious. I also like the character like Kennedy, the city girl that came to the rural area but didnt know a thing and with her misfortune that kept happening to her, it was amusing and i enjoyed how she grew to love the place. Oh! And i like Wally the raccoon too!
I like both main characters. The chemistry between them were obvious. I also like the character like Kennedy, the city girl that came to the rural area but didnt know a thing and with her misfortune that kept happening to her, it was amusing and i enjoyed how she grew to love the place. Oh! And i like Wally the raccoon too!
June 3, 2018
A funny, romantic book that definitively gives the warm fuzzies. The plot is nothing new, a fish out of water storyline. A high maintenance, celebrity reporter ends up in Alaska to write an article on fishing as penance for an earlier indiscretion. She meets a gorgeous, park ranger and they fall in love. The characters are genuine and like able. The writing is bright and full of energy. I left smiling and wanting more book. Would definitely recommend for the people who love HEA stories. I read this book courtesy of NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
November 14, 2019
Kennedy Wells is a writer who is in the dog house with her employer after she did the dirty with one of her interviewees(soccer star so worth it?) and caused quite a lot of drama for the magazine. Months later, she gets the opportunity to get back in their good graces and is shipped of to Alaska to write an article about fishing, something she knows nothing about.
There, she not only finds a new way of life but also a super fine butch who again and again proves to be her knight in shining armor or rather a nice fitting park ranger uniform. Brynn Coleman, director of Alaska’s Wildlife Rescue and Sanctuary.
I really enjoyed this one, I've been trying to find a new f/f book for a while since everything I've read recently has been meh but this one really stood out! Kris Bryant who I know best from her book Listen which I also loved blew me away!
The characters are fun and have depth and feel like real people. They're a good pairing, they improve each other and seem to fit together nicely despite their differences and come on, who doesn't love a good fem/butch pairing. The sex scenes were wonderful as well, Brynn Coleman can have her way with me any time.
I liked the poaching angle, gave the book something else to focus on, not just the romance stuff although I wouldn't be complaining either way. I also really want to visit Alaska after reading this story, Bryant made it sound amazing.
Kris Bryant is a hell of a writer... kudos!
4.5/5.0
There, she not only finds a new way of life but also a super fine butch who again and again proves to be her knight in shining armor or rather a nice fitting park ranger uniform. Brynn Coleman, director of Alaska’s Wildlife Rescue and Sanctuary.
I really enjoyed this one, I've been trying to find a new f/f book for a while since everything I've read recently has been meh but this one really stood out! Kris Bryant who I know best from her book Listen which I also loved blew me away!
The characters are fun and have depth and feel like real people. They're a good pairing, they improve each other and seem to fit together nicely despite their differences and come on, who doesn't love a good fem/butch pairing. The sex scenes were wonderful as well, Brynn Coleman can have her way with me any time.
I liked the poaching angle, gave the book something else to focus on, not just the romance stuff although I wouldn't be complaining either way. I also really want to visit Alaska after reading this story, Bryant made it sound amazing.
Kris Bryant is a hell of a writer... kudos!
4.5/5.0
April 23, 2018
The concept that one MC is only going to be around for a limited time helps with the push/pull of the rom arc but it is exasperating in some aspects as well as slightly tired in it's originality.
Having said that, the setting of Alaska was well done. I lived there for 7 years. So this was particularly well done. Alaska is singularly unique to the US and it was well represented here. I've had my fair share of wild life run ins. Momma moose included.
As far as Brynn and Kennedy goes, they present with great chemistry but it's all pretty much just wasted because of the prolonged 'I'm leaving' arc that I said above. The bow at the end was less than fulfilling. It only highlights the lack of communication between MC's throughout the book. That isn't really great IMO.
I'm a huge fan of the author though. Her novel 'Jolt' is one of my all time favorites (as well as 'Taste'). This one here just didn't work as well for me. It falls firmly into the, it's 'ok' category.
Having said that, the setting of Alaska was well done. I lived there for 7 years. So this was particularly well done. Alaska is singularly unique to the US and it was well represented here. I've had my fair share of wild life run ins. Momma moose included.
As far as Brynn and Kennedy goes, they present with great chemistry but it's all pretty much just wasted because of the prolonged 'I'm leaving' arc that I said above. The bow at the end was less than fulfilling. It only highlights the lack of communication between MC's throughout the book. That isn't really great IMO.
I'm a huge fan of the author though. Her novel 'Jolt' is one of my all time favorites (as well as 'Taste'). This one here just didn't work as well for me. It falls firmly into the, it's 'ok' category.
June 16, 2018
The moose started it
Very sweet story. There arent enough books with butchy leads. I really enjoyed the pace. And now I want to make a trip to Alaska.
Very sweet story. There arent enough books with butchy leads. I really enjoyed the pace. And now I want to make a trip to Alaska.
February 2, 2022
This story has everything you could want. Love, romance, a bit of angst & a bit of suspense all rolled into the most beautiful back drop of Alaska. Kennedy is there to do a story so she can get her old position back at the magazine. Alaska is not her friend from the beginning and she gets into more trouble than most. Brynn is tall and strong the perfect person to resume our damsel in distress. They develop a strong connection and are both scared of getting hurt if they start something together since Kennedy is only there for a short time. This story is so beautifully written I felt like I was seeing Alaska myself. The book has plenty of heat too. Kris Bryant is an amazing author and paired with Brittni Pope who did a fabulous job narrating you can't not love this audiobook.
May 10, 2018
*I received this book from Bold Strokes Books and Netgalley for an honest review*
---
Edited to add: I just recalled how I wanted to start this review. I'll insert it here.
You know how men are described, a favorite joke that goes around, pops up everywhere? It involves what's on their mind, what they are thinking about. I'm not trying to be vague here - the joke is that they think about sex 24/7, and on every day that ends in y (even during sleep they dream about sex; even when eating they . . . etc.).
Why do I mention this point in a lesbian fiction work that is a solo point of view from the point of view of one of the lesbians? Because Kennedy reminds me of that joke. No, she doesn't think about sex 24/7, but it could very well be roughly 10/7? Well, it seemed that way at least. Every time a moment turned to something else, something new, there she is drooling or the like (okay, now I know I'm going to far, but there was a distinct vibe going on here). She seemed to alternate between clothing related thoughts, work related thoughts, and food related thoughts (mostly about how she can't allow herself to eat, must count calories, etc.) - mixed in throughout are thoughts of sex. Like the first scene she meets the other main character, she's just been attacked by a moose, her car is totaled, she's in the middle of no-where in too thin clothing and heels, and her first thought on seeing her rescuer? Well at least after she got a good look at her was sex related. She's sex obsessed, basically, is what I mean. Unless she's writing an article, then hours could go by without her noting the time (or the need to eat food).
---
I’m not sure I’ve read a book like this one before. I do not mean anything good or bad by making that comment, just making a note about it. I’m specifically referring, here, to the main character – the solo point of view character.
I’ve read many books that involved players or people with play reputations. Oddly, or not, most of those involved non-femme characters (or, at the very least, not high femme). Have I seen that character in books? Yes, but not high femme player.
Going over to the player side of the characterization I tend to find three versions: 1) players wanting to stop being a player and to settle down (most of the time I see this in the form of rakes in historical fiction who have spent the good portion of their early adult lives sleeping around with every woman they could find, but now they’ve decided they need to be responsible); 2) people with player reputations who were never players but that reputation got stuck to them for one reason or another (I’m reminded of two characters: Brayden has a character with a player reputation who feeds that reputation, not because they are specifically a player, but because they use it as a shield against . . . I forget now what; and Galli has one who got that reputation by being seen going home with different women every night from a bar, except she was driving them home as a designated driver type, not for romance); 3) players who have no intention of being anything but players (rarer character to find as main character). Well the character in this book is something of a fourth type. A woman who lives in a world, a situation, in which being a player is the norm, and she doesn’t even realize that she lives in a somewhat ‘different’ type of world. She knows she’s a player, but everyone is a player.
Kennedy Wells has spent her life going from one party to another, drinking, partying, sleeping around, and getting paid to do it. Quite well paid. She works as a celebrity journalist. The kind who writes articles about ‘her friend the actor’, instead of hit pieces. Her life was tossed off-course, though; when one of her flings with a random woman, her interview subject, lead to a lawsuit. So she was moved off the high flying celebrity circuit and wants back on. Her boss, Erin, promises that she’ll be put back into her old position if she helps her brother, Erin’s brother, Travis settle in at another magazine – one that’s more about fishing, hunting, and the like. Help by writing a feature article, not help in person with Travis. Travis makes no appearance in this book (other than via one or two emails).
The feature article involves interviewing a jerk asshole reality star type person who has a fishing show. In Alaska. And she has to leave immediately. All mentioned because she heads off with barely adequate clothing and without even reserving a room. Which is where I get back to reminding people that the main character is a high-maintance high femme princess type – who, upon arrival in Alaska, proceeds to disdain the offer of an SUV, takes instead a luxury sedan, then drives around in high heels somewhat randomly. Until getting lost. Because she’s a city girl and stuff.
This reminds me of my initial problems with this book. Very early on there was a very strong vibe of ‘my gosh, I can’t believe how nice and helpful these folks are out here far from the big city; they’ll help without wanting something in return’ (very early on? This goes on, at least the vibe about ‘help without an agenda’, throughout the book) compared with the city dweller who only helps if they have an agenda. I’m not really sure why that particular trope comes up so often. I live in New York, I’ve helped people and people have helped me without needing to be blackmailed into it, or with an ulterior motive. But, eh, I’ve never lived in Los Angeles, where Kennedy is based, maybe it’s as hellish as Kennedy describes.
Got distracted by tropes. Where was I?
So, Kennedy, the main and only point of view character, heads off to Alaska to write some articles. While there she bumps into several people, some nice (all of whom, weirdly, are described as super thin), some less than nice (from a waitress who isn’t as helpful as Kennedy would expect, up to . . . people with guns and evil intent). Stuff happens. Personalities change. Etc. etc. I really hope Kennedy is supposed to be seen, how to word this, as a not tremendously likable person. She does grow, though, so that’s good.
Four things I wish to note before wandering off and doing whatever else: 1) there’s a bunch of sex in this story, lots and lots of sex; 2) I like Wally the pet raccoon; 3) it is hard to get a handle on Brynn, the other main character, since her point of view is not present; 4) thinness. As in, every bloody person meet is described as being super thin. From the 40+ year old librarian who is described as eating a mountain of food, but is just so thin despite that; to the main character Kennedy who is described as being 30 pounds underweight (Kennedy describes herself as being thin, too thin, because she needs to be for her job; Brynn describes her somewhat more negatively as needing 30 more pounds on her); to Brynn herself who is tall, lean, and all muscle; I do not specifically recall if Lara, the police officer, is described as thin or not, but she is described as being gorgeous by vain Kennedy so, since it’s a thought by Kennedy that probably means Lara’s super thin also.
Oh, a fifth thing: Kennedy is really into the fact that she’s a high femme, and likes that Brynn is butch. Though it gets slightly confusing at times – what with Kennedy thinking to herself how Brynn is exactly her type, shortly after making note that everyone she normally sleeps with are all high femmes. Eh, whatever.
Rating: 3.89
May 10 2018
---
Edited to add: I just recalled how I wanted to start this review. I'll insert it here.
You know how men are described, a favorite joke that goes around, pops up everywhere? It involves what's on their mind, what they are thinking about. I'm not trying to be vague here - the joke is that they think about sex 24/7, and on every day that ends in y (even during sleep they dream about sex; even when eating they . . . etc.).
Why do I mention this point in a lesbian fiction work that is a solo point of view from the point of view of one of the lesbians? Because Kennedy reminds me of that joke. No, she doesn't think about sex 24/7, but it could very well be roughly 10/7? Well, it seemed that way at least. Every time a moment turned to something else, something new, there she is drooling or the like (okay, now I know I'm going to far, but there was a distinct vibe going on here). She seemed to alternate between clothing related thoughts, work related thoughts, and food related thoughts (mostly about how she can't allow herself to eat, must count calories, etc.) - mixed in throughout are thoughts of sex. Like the first scene she meets the other main character, she's just been attacked by a moose, her car is totaled, she's in the middle of no-where in too thin clothing and heels, and her first thought on seeing her rescuer? Well at least after she got a good look at her was sex related. She's sex obsessed, basically, is what I mean. Unless she's writing an article, then hours could go by without her noting the time (or the need to eat food).
---
I’m not sure I’ve read a book like this one before. I do not mean anything good or bad by making that comment, just making a note about it. I’m specifically referring, here, to the main character – the solo point of view character.
I’ve read many books that involved players or people with play reputations. Oddly, or not, most of those involved non-femme characters (or, at the very least, not high femme). Have I seen that character in books? Yes, but not high femme player.
Going over to the player side of the characterization I tend to find three versions: 1) players wanting to stop being a player and to settle down (most of the time I see this in the form of rakes in historical fiction who have spent the good portion of their early adult lives sleeping around with every woman they could find, but now they’ve decided they need to be responsible); 2) people with player reputations who were never players but that reputation got stuck to them for one reason or another (I’m reminded of two characters: Brayden has a character with a player reputation who feeds that reputation, not because they are specifically a player, but because they use it as a shield against . . . I forget now what; and Galli has one who got that reputation by being seen going home with different women every night from a bar, except she was driving them home as a designated driver type, not for romance); 3) players who have no intention of being anything but players (rarer character to find as main character). Well the character in this book is something of a fourth type. A woman who lives in a world, a situation, in which being a player is the norm, and she doesn’t even realize that she lives in a somewhat ‘different’ type of world. She knows she’s a player, but everyone is a player.
Kennedy Wells has spent her life going from one party to another, drinking, partying, sleeping around, and getting paid to do it. Quite well paid. She works as a celebrity journalist. The kind who writes articles about ‘her friend the actor’, instead of hit pieces. Her life was tossed off-course, though; when one of her flings with a random woman, her interview subject, lead to a lawsuit. So she was moved off the high flying celebrity circuit and wants back on. Her boss, Erin, promises that she’ll be put back into her old position if she helps her brother, Erin’s brother, Travis settle in at another magazine – one that’s more about fishing, hunting, and the like. Help by writing a feature article, not help in person with Travis. Travis makes no appearance in this book (other than via one or two emails).
The feature article involves interviewing a jerk asshole reality star type person who has a fishing show. In Alaska. And she has to leave immediately. All mentioned because she heads off with barely adequate clothing and without even reserving a room. Which is where I get back to reminding people that the main character is a high-maintance high femme princess type – who, upon arrival in Alaska, proceeds to disdain the offer of an SUV, takes instead a luxury sedan, then drives around in high heels somewhat randomly. Until getting lost. Because she’s a city girl and stuff.
This reminds me of my initial problems with this book. Very early on there was a very strong vibe of ‘my gosh, I can’t believe how nice and helpful these folks are out here far from the big city; they’ll help without wanting something in return’ (very early on? This goes on, at least the vibe about ‘help without an agenda’, throughout the book) compared with the city dweller who only helps if they have an agenda. I’m not really sure why that particular trope comes up so often. I live in New York, I’ve helped people and people have helped me without needing to be blackmailed into it, or with an ulterior motive. But, eh, I’ve never lived in Los Angeles, where Kennedy is based, maybe it’s as hellish as Kennedy describes.
Got distracted by tropes. Where was I?
So, Kennedy, the main and only point of view character, heads off to Alaska to write some articles. While there she bumps into several people, some nice (all of whom, weirdly, are described as super thin), some less than nice (from a waitress who isn’t as helpful as Kennedy would expect, up to . . . people with guns and evil intent). Stuff happens. Personalities change. Etc. etc. I really hope Kennedy is supposed to be seen, how to word this, as a not tremendously likable person. She does grow, though, so that’s good.
Four things I wish to note before wandering off and doing whatever else: 1) there’s a bunch of sex in this story, lots and lots of sex; 2) I like Wally the pet raccoon; 3) it is hard to get a handle on Brynn, the other main character, since her point of view is not present; 4) thinness. As in, every bloody person meet is described as being super thin. From the 40+ year old librarian who is described as eating a mountain of food, but is just so thin despite that; to the main character Kennedy who is described as being 30 pounds underweight (Kennedy describes herself as being thin, too thin, because she needs to be for her job; Brynn describes her somewhat more negatively as needing 30 more pounds on her); to Brynn herself who is tall, lean, and all muscle; I do not specifically recall if Lara, the police officer, is described as thin or not, but she is described as being gorgeous by vain Kennedy so, since it’s a thought by Kennedy that probably means Lara’s super thin also.
Oh, a fifth thing: Kennedy is really into the fact that she’s a high femme, and likes that Brynn is butch. Though it gets slightly confusing at times – what with Kennedy thinking to herself how Brynn is exactly her type, shortly after making note that everyone she normally sleeps with are all high femmes. Eh, whatever.
Rating: 3.89
May 10 2018
April 14, 2018
3.5 stars
This is a charming fish-out-of-water romance set in Alaska.
Kennedy Wells is a journalist who specialises in writing about celebrities in LA. A brief affair with one of her subjects lands the magazine with a lawsuit, and Kennedy is put in the doghouse by her boss for six months. She sees a way out by agreeing to report on fishing in Alaska for a sister magazine, the only way she’d even think of getting her Jimmy Choos dirty.
Day one in Alaska and a moose gets cranky and sits on her stationary hire car, destroying it. Saved from a belligerent moose by Brynn Coleman who was passing by, Kennedy finds someone to guide her in foreign territory. It is just fabulously handy that Brynn is a smoking hot, single lesbian and the director of Alaska’s Wildlife Rescue and Sanctuary.
There is a lot to enjoy in this book by Bryant. There is a lovely sense of humour, and a light touch that is evident throughout. Kennedy is smart and capable, and resilient enough to keep going even when things aren’t going well in the luck department. Bryant has kept her the core of the book, and with good reason. Kennedy is likeable and feisty, honest, and very human once she leaves LA. She could have been written as a fashion diva, but Bryant has been clever enough to avoid some of those traps and keep Kennedy as a very relatable character.
Brynn is less well written, but she is a good foil for Kennedy. There were a lot of entertaining antics in the first half of the book, at which point it took a slightly darker turn. However, Bryant didn’t give up the light touch, and the book never deviates from its main genre of romance. It feels like a cohesive book as a result.
I did think that the emotional connection between the two main characters shifted a bit too quickly towards the end, and it would have been good to see more development of this before the conclusion. This was necessarily rushed due to other elements in the plotting, but it felt like the romance needed more time to solidify than was given to the characters.
I did enjoy this book. It is a delightful and light romance with some lovely humour throughout.
Advanced reading copy provided by NetGalley for an honest review.
This is a charming fish-out-of-water romance set in Alaska.
Kennedy Wells is a journalist who specialises in writing about celebrities in LA. A brief affair with one of her subjects lands the magazine with a lawsuit, and Kennedy is put in the doghouse by her boss for six months. She sees a way out by agreeing to report on fishing in Alaska for a sister magazine, the only way she’d even think of getting her Jimmy Choos dirty.
Day one in Alaska and a moose gets cranky and sits on her stationary hire car, destroying it. Saved from a belligerent moose by Brynn Coleman who was passing by, Kennedy finds someone to guide her in foreign territory. It is just fabulously handy that Brynn is a smoking hot, single lesbian and the director of Alaska’s Wildlife Rescue and Sanctuary.
There is a lot to enjoy in this book by Bryant. There is a lovely sense of humour, and a light touch that is evident throughout. Kennedy is smart and capable, and resilient enough to keep going even when things aren’t going well in the luck department. Bryant has kept her the core of the book, and with good reason. Kennedy is likeable and feisty, honest, and very human once she leaves LA. She could have been written as a fashion diva, but Bryant has been clever enough to avoid some of those traps and keep Kennedy as a very relatable character.
Brynn is less well written, but she is a good foil for Kennedy. There were a lot of entertaining antics in the first half of the book, at which point it took a slightly darker turn. However, Bryant didn’t give up the light touch, and the book never deviates from its main genre of romance. It feels like a cohesive book as a result.
I did think that the emotional connection between the two main characters shifted a bit too quickly towards the end, and it would have been good to see more development of this before the conclusion. This was necessarily rushed due to other elements in the plotting, but it felt like the romance needed more time to solidify than was given to the characters.
I did enjoy this book. It is a delightful and light romance with some lovely humour throughout.
Advanced reading copy provided by NetGalley for an honest review.
June 13, 2018
Four fat stars. Liked this book very much. It was well written and funny with lovely characters. Recommend.
January 4, 2021
Fun romp that I didn't expect to enjoy. Highly recommended.
December 11, 2019
“Breakthrough” is a very enjoyable book of polar opposites who find they have much more than they expected in common.
MC butch ranger Brynn finds herself rescuing MC Kennedy from the perils of Alaska time and time again. There’s plenty of humor throughout the book, and after a slow-burn mutual attraction in the first half, there’s plenty of steamy sex throughout the second half of the book.
I listened to this months ago, and don’t have many notes to write a more detailed review, but I do remember enjoying the story quite a bit! 4.3*
MC butch ranger Brynn finds herself rescuing MC Kennedy from the perils of Alaska time and time again. There’s plenty of humor throughout the book, and after a slow-burn mutual attraction in the first half, there’s plenty of steamy sex throughout the second half of the book.
I listened to this months ago, and don’t have many notes to write a more detailed review, but I do remember enjoying the story quite a bit! 4.3*
August 29, 2018
"I was no match for her. I was a city girl through and through"
* * *
3 / 5
Breakthrough is a classic story: city girl is sent to the "wilds" of Alaska and meets a rough and tough ranger girl. They fall in love. It's a sweet and readable story, but the writing is somewhat rough and awkward to read in places.
Kennedy Wells writes for a celebrity magazine. After a bit of a rough time at work, Kennedy is sent to the wilds of Alaska to cover stories about local fishing. As you might guess, this is not exactly her area of comfort or expertise, and when she gets into a few spots of trouble she is saved by Brynn Coleman, a park ranger. Whilst neither woman is looking for a relationship there are undeniable sparks of attraction flying around left and right.
"I had nothing planned but you today"
The romance itself was sweet and rather slow-burn. Like any romance novel there are bumps in the road in their progression from strangers to partners; most of these bumps involve Kennedy having the worst luck in the world and being rather helpless. This gave their relationship a fun dynamic, but it did feel a bit overdone when Kennedy was in trouble for the fifth time.
I loved the setting of the book: Alaska sounds like such an amazing place to visit. The plot really takes advantage of the location to add a little heat and drama to the novel. What I wasn't so fond of was the writing - lots of sections read quite rough and the scenes didn't really flow together very well. As a reader, I got the impression that I was being told everything, rather than being shown, which detracted from my enjoyment of the book.
My thanks to Netgalley for an ARC of this book.
Read this review and more on my blog: https://atlasrisingbooks.wordpress.co...
* * *
3 / 5
Breakthrough is a classic story: city girl is sent to the "wilds" of Alaska and meets a rough and tough ranger girl. They fall in love. It's a sweet and readable story, but the writing is somewhat rough and awkward to read in places.
Kennedy Wells writes for a celebrity magazine. After a bit of a rough time at work, Kennedy is sent to the wilds of Alaska to cover stories about local fishing. As you might guess, this is not exactly her area of comfort or expertise, and when she gets into a few spots of trouble she is saved by Brynn Coleman, a park ranger. Whilst neither woman is looking for a relationship there are undeniable sparks of attraction flying around left and right.
"I had nothing planned but you today"
The romance itself was sweet and rather slow-burn. Like any romance novel there are bumps in the road in their progression from strangers to partners; most of these bumps involve Kennedy having the worst luck in the world and being rather helpless. This gave their relationship a fun dynamic, but it did feel a bit overdone when Kennedy was in trouble for the fifth time.
I loved the setting of the book: Alaska sounds like such an amazing place to visit. The plot really takes advantage of the location to add a little heat and drama to the novel. What I wasn't so fond of was the writing - lots of sections read quite rough and the scenes didn't really flow together very well. As a reader, I got the impression that I was being told everything, rather than being shown, which detracted from my enjoyment of the book.
My thanks to Netgalley for an ARC of this book.
Read this review and more on my blog: https://atlasrisingbooks.wordpress.co...
December 8, 2021
ARC received from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I like Kris Bryant books and this was a nice story. I was intrigued by the Alaskan setting because I traveled through there (and stayed in Anchorage) a few years ago. Bryant makes good use of the Alaskan setting, it made me want to go back, although the way she referred to Anchorage as a ‘town’ was a bit off-putting, parts of the book make it sound like some hick town with a couple of cops, but it’s actually a fair sized city.
Anyway, that aside, I did like both characters, though I very much wish this story hadn’t been in first person, and that the first person perspective wasn’t Kennedy ‘the helpless’. Lord, did this woman have bad luck. If I was Brynn I’d have stopped coming to the rescue after the second time, but god love her, she hung in there. Due to the first person POV I felt like I didn’t get as much of a handle on Brynn and what she was feeling, but that’s the limitation of first person.
Due to the series of unfortunate events, the two leads do spend a large amount of time together, but again, outside of Brynn’s big trauma, the shelter and Kennedy’s work, don’t really discuss anything of substance about each other. Wally was a cute addition and not your typical ‘pet’, and the few secondary characters weren’t very fleshed out.
The ‘mystery’ was ok, but really only there to ensure the two characters maintained constant contact. The ending was also a little too twee for me, but overall it’s a fairly sweet romance, and I appreciated the lack of any contrived drama between the main characters. 3 stars
I like Kris Bryant books and this was a nice story. I was intrigued by the Alaskan setting because I traveled through there (and stayed in Anchorage) a few years ago. Bryant makes good use of the Alaskan setting, it made me want to go back, although the way she referred to Anchorage as a ‘town’ was a bit off-putting, parts of the book make it sound like some hick town with a couple of cops, but it’s actually a fair sized city.
Anyway, that aside, I did like both characters, though I very much wish this story hadn’t been in first person, and that the first person perspective wasn’t Kennedy ‘the helpless’. Lord, did this woman have bad luck. If I was Brynn I’d have stopped coming to the rescue after the second time, but god love her, she hung in there. Due to the first person POV I felt like I didn’t get as much of a handle on Brynn and what she was feeling, but that’s the limitation of first person.
Due to the series of unfortunate events, the two leads do spend a large amount of time together, but again, outside of Brynn’s big trauma, the shelter and Kennedy’s work, don’t really discuss anything of substance about each other. Wally was a cute addition and not your typical ‘pet’, and the few secondary characters weren’t very fleshed out.
The ‘mystery’ was ok, but really only there to ensure the two characters maintained constant contact. The ending was also a little too twee for me, but overall it’s a fairly sweet romance, and I appreciated the lack of any contrived drama between the main characters. 3 stars
March 15, 2018
What a delight to read. I laughed. I cried. I held my breath in suspense as to what could possibly happen next. Kris Bryant went out of her comfort zone of pure romance and added a bit of intrigue to the story and she did it well. Follow the escapades of big city reporter Kennedy Wells as she is sent to Alaska to write a fishing story. She wasn’t ready for Alaska nor was Alaska ready for her. Follow her antics as she winds her way through the trials and tribulations of the wild. I highly recommend it.
April 14, 2018
Charming and compelling. A romance that warms the heart. The story is full of humour as the city girl tackles the wilderness and mainly fails, but thankfully is rescued by the butch ranger. The plot also manages to add suspense and a conservation message. Delightful. Only one problem - I want a raccoon now and it’s going to be hard to find one in England.
January 16, 2021
Beautiful
Set in Alaska, Kris Bryant describes the scenes artfully, making me wish I was there. Brynn, a ranger that helps consistently rescue a LA magazine writer from her first day landing in Alaska.
Kennedy is a mess when she lands in Alaska. From a moose run in, chased by poachers, almost setting her cabin on fire and figuring out how to return to the cabin from the lake. She has an adventure. Every turn there is Brynn to the rescue.
A wonderful, sweet romance that will take you through some scenic scenes in Alaska, and get you up close with the wildlife, including a pet raccoon.
This is a journey to sit back and enjoy a few laughs and a steamy chemistry.
Will be in my rereads to come.
Set in Alaska, Kris Bryant describes the scenes artfully, making me wish I was there. Brynn, a ranger that helps consistently rescue a LA magazine writer from her first day landing in Alaska.
Kennedy is a mess when she lands in Alaska. From a moose run in, chased by poachers, almost setting her cabin on fire and figuring out how to return to the cabin from the lake. She has an adventure. Every turn there is Brynn to the rescue.
A wonderful, sweet romance that will take you through some scenic scenes in Alaska, and get you up close with the wildlife, including a pet raccoon.
This is a journey to sit back and enjoy a few laughs and a steamy chemistry.
Will be in my rereads to come.
April 22, 2018
This is a read about embracing something different. The story is cute with a bite of angst. The talks by the fireplace, the picnic lunches, and the need to care were all very romantic. I enjoy reads by this author and this time around was no different. The characters, very different from each other, are interesting with their need to be good at what they do and also the need to find solid footing in a relationship.
Read received from Bold Strokes Books, In. via NetGalley
Read received from Bold Strokes Books, In. via NetGalley
Displaying 1 - 30 of 107 reviews