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Oxford Blue #1
The First Time We Met
The First Time We Met is the first novel in the sizzling new Oxford Blue romance series from Pippa Croft.
Senator's daughter Lauren Cusack is leaving Washington behind for the dreaming spires of Oxford University - and she's ready for a challenge. Now a fully-fledged Master's student, Lauren is determined to make the most of every single minute.
But then she meets Alexander Hunt, and everything changes.
A devastatingly handsome English aristocrat, Alexander is as brooding and enigmatic as they come. Lauren tries to resist his advances, but he has his sights clearly set on the young American, and what Alexander wants, he gets.
Caution soon gives way to mind-blowing passion and Lauren is drawn into Alexander's privileged world of glamour and status. But all that glitters is not gold - for Alexander is a man with a dark past, and desire may not be enough to conquer all else . . .
Senator's daughter Lauren Cusack is leaving Washington behind for the dreaming spires of Oxford University - and she's ready for a challenge. Now a fully-fledged Master's student, Lauren is determined to make the most of every single minute.
But then she meets Alexander Hunt, and everything changes.
A devastatingly handsome English aristocrat, Alexander is as brooding and enigmatic as they come. Lauren tries to resist his advances, but he has his sights clearly set on the young American, and what Alexander wants, he gets.
Caution soon gives way to mind-blowing passion and Lauren is drawn into Alexander's privileged world of glamour and status. But all that glitters is not gold - for Alexander is a man with a dark past, and desire may not be enough to conquer all else . . .
363 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 13, 2014
13 people are currently reading
740 people want to read
About the author
Pippa Croft
6books57followersPippa Croft is the pen name of an award-winning romantic novelist. After studying English at Oxford, she worked as a copywriter and journalist before writing her debut novel, which won the RNA's New Writers' award and was later made into a TV movie. She lives in a village in the heart of England with her husband and daughter.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 106 reviews
October 19, 2015
5 Words: Lust, passion, sexy, hilarious, challenging.
This is a very steamy NA with more than a sprinkling of Downton-Abbey-esque old money traditions and snobbery. And I freaking loved it.
Sometimes I just need my NA fix, something that I won't take too seriously but I can still invest in and that will entertain me and keep me turning the pages.
For every cliché in The First Time We Met, there's a reminder that this isn't just your bog standard NA romance. Although there's lots and lots (and lots) of passion and lust and excitement and conflict and deceit and lies and revenge and every other goody that seems a prerequisite in NA that's not the sum total of this books parts.
As the first book in the Oxford Blue series, it fantastically sets the scene and introduces the main characters. The side characters also get plenty of attention and I definitely like Immy and detest Valentina.
If you're looking for your NA guilty pleasure fix and love a poisonous relationship, then look no further.
I received a copy of this for free via NetGalley for review purposes.
This is a very steamy NA with more than a sprinkling of Downton-Abbey-esque old money traditions and snobbery. And I freaking loved it.
Sometimes I just need my NA fix, something that I won't take too seriously but I can still invest in and that will entertain me and keep me turning the pages.
For every cliché in The First Time We Met, there's a reminder that this isn't just your bog standard NA romance. Although there's lots and lots (and lots) of passion and lust and excitement and conflict and deceit and lies and revenge and every other goody that seems a prerequisite in NA that's not the sum total of this books parts.
As the first book in the Oxford Blue series, it fantastically sets the scene and introduces the main characters. The side characters also get plenty of attention and I definitely like Immy and detest Valentina.
If you're looking for your NA guilty pleasure fix and love a poisonous relationship, then look no further.
I received a copy of this for free via NetGalley for review purposes.
June 20, 2014
*Update* Edited to add: wow, there is a new film coming out in September called The Riot Club, featuring the gorgeous Max Irons (my idea of Alexander!), about an Oxford club of posh boys - just the thing to go with this fab series!!
This was a brilliant read!
All American girl Lauren Cusack and British aristocrat/part time Special Forces officer Alexander Hunt meet while studying post grad courses at the fictional Wyckham college in Oxford. Sparks fly and they enter into an intense and passionate relationship, but however compatible they are between the sheets, things aren't likely to go smoothly given their diverse backgrounds, disparate personalities plus Alexander's emotional baggage and military commitments.
These are fully fleshed out, flawed characters in a great setting - you can really visualise Wyckham college and Oxford - and yay, unlike many steamy and/or erotic romances, it actually has a plot which is fast-paced and holds your attention. And did I mention the sex is hot?! ;0) Above all, it's well written and very very witty - I laughed out loud several times, especially when Lauren is plunged into the brooding, uber-snobbish atmosphere at Falconbury House and encounters Valentina, a wondrous creation and one of the most appalling but truly memorable characters I've come across in a novel. You'll just have to read for yourself to find out what I mean with that one!
Feisty is sometimes an overused word in relation to heroines but Lauren richly deserves the label. She's independently minded, down to earth and meets every challenge head on. I was rooting for her as she more than held her own among the traditions, tutors and occasional upper class twit characters she encounters at Wyckham. She is particularly in kick-ass mode at Falconbury House where her verbal slug fest with The Bitch With a Capital B was wonderful to read.
Alexander is a compelling and fascinating hero - he's a handsome, intelligent, wealthy, arrogant, sexy-as-hell aristocrat but as with all the best heroes there's a huge amount going on beneath the surface. Lauren compares getting to know him like dismantling one of those Russian dolls: as soon as you remove one layer there's another underneath. So true, and I'm looking forward to reading MUCH more about the enigmatic, sexy Alexander...
I couldn't put it down and stayed up way too late to finish First Time We Met. It ends on a cliffhanger - I believe this is going to be a 3 book series - and a teaser excerpt from Book 2 is included (which is out now!) . I'm so looking forward to the next installment!
Bring. It. On!
December 14, 2015
Avrei voluto lasciare la recensione che ho scritto di getto su ŷ terminata la lettura, ma poi ho pensato che no, qualche parola in più per questo romanzo va spesa, visto quanto è brutto. Ma non solo brutto, anche scritto male e pieno di farneticazioni che, se apertamente condannano lo stalker di turno, in realtà tacitamente portano ad accettare tutto quanto, dai regali consolatori ai comportamenti minacciosi come ormai nei romanzi rosa non si manca mai di fare. E mi fa dire una sola cosa: Pippa di nome e di fatto.
La protagonista de La prima volta che ti ho incontrato, Laurel, è talmente il prototipo della belloccia da fyccina da essere americana, biondissima, intelligente � credo che a un certo punto si faccia riferimento anche al suo QI ma non ne sono proprio sicura � e ricca, ma necessariamente deve avere qualche difettuccio che ce la renda umana: ecco che veniamo scoprire che è un po� goffa e che ha qualche problema coi genitori che non la capiscono ma non è dato sapere di più. Ora che l’abbiamo resa più vicina, l’immedesimazione da parte delle lettrici è salva! Ad ogni modo, dicevo, è così il modello della solita protagonista banalotta che la prima sera ad Oxford se ne esce con una frase che palesemente ci mostra la sua furbizia assieme alla modestia che la caratterizzerà per tutta la narrazione: “Forse è una mia impressione ma mi sembra che tutti non facciano che guardarmi�. Non le passa neanche per l’anticamera del cervello che magari i compagni la fissano perché è la ragazza nuova, o perché se ne sta impalata al centro della sala. No, chiaramente ha più senso quel che dice la nuova amica, eletta migliore amica dopo qualcosa come un paio d’ore scarse di conoscenza: “I ragazzi probabilmente ti stanno fissando perché vogliono scoparti; le ragazze e i gay, invece, staranno sbavando dietro il tuo vestito�.
Non starò qui a dire quanto sia orrido che si continui a dipingere un omosessuale come una donna, perché affermazioni di questo tipo credo di commentino da sole e voglio ben sperare che lascino il tempo che trovano quelle discussioni idiote su chi faccia l’uomo nelle coppie gay. Dirò però che è squallido come passi per un comportamento normale, dovuto alla bellezza di Laurel, quello di due differenti soggetti maschili, di cui uno arriva addirittura a metterle le mani quasi negli slip non appena la conosce e l’altro a metterle un sonnifero nel tè: ragazze, sappiatelo, se vivete in questo romanzo e uno allunga le mani su di voi, ubriaco o sobrio che sia, è sintomo di un apprezzamento e dovreste esserne orgogliose. Ma pure tanto, quindi non osate pensare l’opposto.
Aggiungerò che mi ha urtato i nervi il modo in cui Laurel dimentica in un batter di ciglia un’aggressione, anzi due, solo perché si ritrova davanti il bono della situazione (anche se non ho ben chiaro come riesca a riconoscerlo a primo impatto dopo averne visto solo le chiappe ma tant’�): ovviamente ricco in maniera inquantificabile, chiaramente latin lover che seduce e lascia scie di cuori infranti al suo passaggio, naturalmente psicopatico in azione che sbuca in ogni dove, la segue come un segugio e le regala cose a caso prima ancora che le abbia parlato per più di due minuti. Inevitabile intuire come andrà a finire: sesso, litigi, sesso, litigi, e via dicendo, dove ogni volta si arriva allo scontro su problemi che mai vengono risolti ma semplicemente sopiti con scene di sesso di cui facevamo a meno � perché sono anche descritte con un linguaggio da far accapponare la pelle e ben lungi io dall’essere puritana -, finché non si ripresentano, ingigantiti, pronti a schiacciare e mettere di nuovo in crisi la coppia.
Procedimento vecchio, solite conclusioni, non c’� niente in questo romanzo che mi abbia convinta. E, stavolta, devo anche aggiungere l’aver trovato orrori grammaticali da far rizzare i capelli anche a Mastro Lindo: la congiunzione o con l’acca e il verbo avere senza si rincorrono un po� per tutto il testo e mi hanno ulteriormente inorridita. Passi una scrittura davvero ma davvero povera, scarna al limite del telegrafico e incapace di coinvolgere a livello emotivo, il cui unico pregio è quello di scorrere via così veloce che nemmeno ci si rende conto, ma che in un testo possa trovare ripetutamente errori grammaticali mi fa seriamente mettere in dubbio la revisione del testo. Non lo accetto in un self, figuriamoci in un prodotto edito.
La protagonista de La prima volta che ti ho incontrato, Laurel, è talmente il prototipo della belloccia da fyccina da essere americana, biondissima, intelligente � credo che a un certo punto si faccia riferimento anche al suo QI ma non ne sono proprio sicura � e ricca, ma necessariamente deve avere qualche difettuccio che ce la renda umana: ecco che veniamo scoprire che è un po� goffa e che ha qualche problema coi genitori che non la capiscono ma non è dato sapere di più. Ora che l’abbiamo resa più vicina, l’immedesimazione da parte delle lettrici è salva! Ad ogni modo, dicevo, è così il modello della solita protagonista banalotta che la prima sera ad Oxford se ne esce con una frase che palesemente ci mostra la sua furbizia assieme alla modestia che la caratterizzerà per tutta la narrazione: “Forse è una mia impressione ma mi sembra che tutti non facciano che guardarmi�. Non le passa neanche per l’anticamera del cervello che magari i compagni la fissano perché è la ragazza nuova, o perché se ne sta impalata al centro della sala. No, chiaramente ha più senso quel che dice la nuova amica, eletta migliore amica dopo qualcosa come un paio d’ore scarse di conoscenza: “I ragazzi probabilmente ti stanno fissando perché vogliono scoparti; le ragazze e i gay, invece, staranno sbavando dietro il tuo vestito�.
Non starò qui a dire quanto sia orrido che si continui a dipingere un omosessuale come una donna, perché affermazioni di questo tipo credo di commentino da sole e voglio ben sperare che lascino il tempo che trovano quelle discussioni idiote su chi faccia l’uomo nelle coppie gay. Dirò però che è squallido come passi per un comportamento normale, dovuto alla bellezza di Laurel, quello di due differenti soggetti maschili, di cui uno arriva addirittura a metterle le mani quasi negli slip non appena la conosce e l’altro a metterle un sonnifero nel tè: ragazze, sappiatelo, se vivete in questo romanzo e uno allunga le mani su di voi, ubriaco o sobrio che sia, è sintomo di un apprezzamento e dovreste esserne orgogliose. Ma pure tanto, quindi non osate pensare l’opposto.
Aggiungerò che mi ha urtato i nervi il modo in cui Laurel dimentica in un batter di ciglia un’aggressione, anzi due, solo perché si ritrova davanti il bono della situazione (anche se non ho ben chiaro come riesca a riconoscerlo a primo impatto dopo averne visto solo le chiappe ma tant’�): ovviamente ricco in maniera inquantificabile, chiaramente latin lover che seduce e lascia scie di cuori infranti al suo passaggio, naturalmente psicopatico in azione che sbuca in ogni dove, la segue come un segugio e le regala cose a caso prima ancora che le abbia parlato per più di due minuti. Inevitabile intuire come andrà a finire: sesso, litigi, sesso, litigi, e via dicendo, dove ogni volta si arriva allo scontro su problemi che mai vengono risolti ma semplicemente sopiti con scene di sesso di cui facevamo a meno � perché sono anche descritte con un linguaggio da far accapponare la pelle e ben lungi io dall’essere puritana -, finché non si ripresentano, ingigantiti, pronti a schiacciare e mettere di nuovo in crisi la coppia.
Procedimento vecchio, solite conclusioni, non c’� niente in questo romanzo che mi abbia convinta. E, stavolta, devo anche aggiungere l’aver trovato orrori grammaticali da far rizzare i capelli anche a Mastro Lindo: la congiunzione o con l’acca e il verbo avere senza si rincorrono un po� per tutto il testo e mi hanno ulteriormente inorridita. Passi una scrittura davvero ma davvero povera, scarna al limite del telegrafico e incapace di coinvolgere a livello emotivo, il cui unico pregio è quello di scorrere via così veloce che nemmeno ci si rende conto, ma che in un testo possa trovare ripetutamente errori grammaticali mi fa seriamente mettere in dubbio la revisione del testo. Non lo accetto in un self, figuriamoci in un prodotto edito.
February 15, 2014
3.5 - So When Is The Next Book Due Out Stars :(
The First Time We Met is Lauren Cusack's story, after managing to persuade her over-protective parents to allow her to study abroad she arrives at Oxford from Washington to realise her dream.
Not looking for any romantic entanglements Lauren is looking to soak up the atmosphere, make a few friends, and focus on her studies, unfortunately she didn't figure Captain Alexander (don't call him Alex) Hunt into the equation.
Alexander is tall, dark and handsome, every girls dream. He is also aloof, aristocratic and blunt to the point of being rude. Carrying around demons from his past, and looking to avoid a future that has been mapped out for him due to his heritage, rather than his own choices.
He is solidity, uncompromising, maddening.
Although Lauren tries to avoid being drawn into his life and to him as a man, Alexander pursues her without compromise, until he gets what he wants...In saying that though she does have an uncanny habit of falling on her arse when he is around, and like the good Knight (or Lord in this case) he dashes to her rescue.
I did enjoy The First Time We Met, but if I am honest it isn't really anything new or different. I loved Alexander, but I pretty much love any man in a uniform. His Britishness, and the fact the book is based in the UK is also a big plus, it was nice to actually be able too see the places described in the minds eye, rather than having to Google everything too see what the location area involved looks like.
There are an awful lot of chiches in this book, you have your typically rich, aristocratic over indulged tossers running through the tale, going by the names of Rupert (Rupes) and Mr Rafe (handsy tutor). And the name dropping for high end products and designers reads like a list of who's who, at points I wondered if the author was getting kick-backs by said designers for how many times she could squeeze their names/products into the book. Henry Favell.... so described that he reminded me of a certain Mr Cavill.
But that being said, it is well written, and if you can get past alot of the god-awful rich English toffs in the story, it is pretty enjoyable. The sex is well written and a little different, and I loved all the Oxfordness of it all.
My MAJOR downer is that this book is not a standalone, and I cannot find any information or confirmation as to if or when Lauren and Alexanders story will continue.
ARC provided via Netgalley, in exchange for the above honest review.
The First Time We Met is Lauren Cusack's story, after managing to persuade her over-protective parents to allow her to study abroad she arrives at Oxford from Washington to realise her dream.
Not looking for any romantic entanglements Lauren is looking to soak up the atmosphere, make a few friends, and focus on her studies, unfortunately she didn't figure Captain Alexander (don't call him Alex) Hunt into the equation.
Alexander is tall, dark and handsome, every girls dream. He is also aloof, aristocratic and blunt to the point of being rude. Carrying around demons from his past, and looking to avoid a future that has been mapped out for him due to his heritage, rather than his own choices.
He is solidity, uncompromising, maddening.
Although Lauren tries to avoid being drawn into his life and to him as a man, Alexander pursues her without compromise, until he gets what he wants...In saying that though she does have an uncanny habit of falling on her arse when he is around, and like the good Knight (or Lord in this case) he dashes to her rescue.
I did enjoy The First Time We Met, but if I am honest it isn't really anything new or different. I loved Alexander, but I pretty much love any man in a uniform. His Britishness, and the fact the book is based in the UK is also a big plus, it was nice to actually be able too see the places described in the minds eye, rather than having to Google everything too see what the location area involved looks like.
There are an awful lot of chiches in this book, you have your typically rich, aristocratic over indulged tossers running through the tale, going by the names of Rupert (Rupes) and Mr Rafe (handsy tutor). And the name dropping for high end products and designers reads like a list of who's who, at points I wondered if the author was getting kick-backs by said designers for how many times she could squeeze their names/products into the book. Henry Favell.... so described that he reminded me of a certain Mr Cavill.
But that being said, it is well written, and if you can get past alot of the god-awful rich English toffs in the story, it is pretty enjoyable. The sex is well written and a little different, and I loved all the Oxfordness of it all.
My MAJOR downer is that this book is not a standalone, and I cannot find any information or confirmation as to if or when Lauren and Alexanders story will continue.
ARC provided via Netgalley, in exchange for the above honest review.
February 1, 2018
05/23/17 - I am glad I paid $.53 for this book and not $9.99 which is the price I originally saw it for on Amazon. Actually, I want my fifty-three cents back, but I think Amazon's return policy is 7 days.
Too much name dropping of high end products. This book felt like an advertisement for Neiman Marcus. And the heroine did not just stop at name dropping of products, but famous people too and for no reason except to say it or brag (even though she said she did not brag. *eye roll* This is the problem with rich girl stories with rich girl problems, it is too hard to connect. I wanted to like to story. I tried very hard, but Lauren was not likable. A bit whiny at times. A bit everything that I can not stand in a heroine. Why did the hero like her? Was she that attractive???
Here is some of the name-dropping she did in the first 15% of the book.
"Into my Ralph Lauren flats." (Loc page 1)
"...new Kate Spade tote." (Loc page 4)
"Sure, I've been to France and Italy with my parents before, and to London a couple of times on vacation." (Loc page 11)
"I have actually met John Cusack at a fundraiser for a kids' caner charity that was hosted by my mother. And Michele Obama was guest of honour and Hillary Clinton dropped by. But I don't normally say any of that stuff because I genuinely don't like name-dropping and I don't want to play the Pushy Yank on my first day." (Loc page 15) YEAH RIGHT!! That is all the heroine does in the first 20% of the book before I had to call it quits.
"I wore my leather jacket and DKNY ankle boots." (Loc page 47)
"...my Cartier tell me it's ten thirty." (Loc page 51)
"The guys are probably staring because they want to shag you; the girls and the gay men will be lusting after your dress. Is that a Donna Karan?" "Uh-huh." (Loc page 19)
"As he slides my sock over my foot, I am glad I got a pedi before I left Washington." (Loc page 66)
Like I had said, I had to quit after 20%, it was too much.
Reading is subjective. You may love it.
05/09/17 - Well awhile ago I complained how the Kindle edition of this book was $9.99. Today, I checked and it is only $.53!!!
01/02/17 - $9.99 for kindle edition - let me know when there is a sale.
Too much name dropping of high end products. This book felt like an advertisement for Neiman Marcus. And the heroine did not just stop at name dropping of products, but famous people too and for no reason except to say it or brag (even though she said she did not brag. *eye roll* This is the problem with rich girl stories with rich girl problems, it is too hard to connect. I wanted to like to story. I tried very hard, but Lauren was not likable. A bit whiny at times. A bit everything that I can not stand in a heroine. Why did the hero like her? Was she that attractive???
Here is some of the name-dropping she did in the first 15% of the book.
"Into my Ralph Lauren flats." (Loc page 1)
"...new Kate Spade tote." (Loc page 4)
"Sure, I've been to France and Italy with my parents before, and to London a couple of times on vacation." (Loc page 11)
"I have actually met John Cusack at a fundraiser for a kids' caner charity that was hosted by my mother. And Michele Obama was guest of honour and Hillary Clinton dropped by. But I don't normally say any of that stuff because I genuinely don't like name-dropping and I don't want to play the Pushy Yank on my first day." (Loc page 15) YEAH RIGHT!! That is all the heroine does in the first 20% of the book before I had to call it quits.
"I wore my leather jacket and DKNY ankle boots." (Loc page 47)
"...my Cartier tell me it's ten thirty." (Loc page 51)
"The guys are probably staring because they want to shag you; the girls and the gay men will be lusting after your dress. Is that a Donna Karan?" "Uh-huh." (Loc page 19)
"As he slides my sock over my foot, I am glad I got a pedi before I left Washington." (Loc page 66)
Like I had said, I had to quit after 20%, it was too much.
Reading is subjective. You may love it.
05/09/17 - Well awhile ago I complained how the Kindle edition of this book was $9.99. Today, I checked and it is only $.53!!!
01/02/17 - $9.99 for kindle edition - let me know when there is a sale.
February 20, 2014
Thanks to the beautiful setting and quality of writing, Croft brings a touch of class to the erotic genre. Lauren is a likeable character from the start and the reader can't help but fall in love with arrogant, repressed but vulnerable Alexander. Croft writes sex in a distinctive style, without the cringe-factor which is no mean feat. It's a fast-paced read and difficult to put down, with a great cliff-hanger ending. Bravo!
February 4, 2015
The First Time We Met appealed to me greatly as it is set in Oxford. It was wonderful to read the characters visiting places I know, and to imagine the story unfolding locally.
This book has everything you want in a page-turner; likeable as well as obnoxious characters, a female protagonist you can relate to and a smouldering, tall dark and drop-dead gorgeous hero with enough flaws to keep him interesting and human. When you add in rolling countryside, horses and dogs, the backdrop is as close to perfect as you can get.
I particularly enjoyed the more prickly and nasty characters. Everyone will have met a Rupert, Valentina or General Hunt in their time, not to mention the sleazy tutor or the predatory Henry. These characters make your hackles rise, and I am hoping in the next books of the series they will get the sort of treatment they deserve. They add a lot to the story, and make sure the path of true love isn’t an easy one.
The maddening (in a good way) end of this book leaves me keen to read the second in the series and find out where the characters go from here. I absolutely can’t wait for the next book now.
In summary, a guaranteed page-turner which is very hard to put down or stop thinking about when you’re not reading it. Bravo.
I received a copy of this book via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
This book has everything you want in a page-turner; likeable as well as obnoxious characters, a female protagonist you can relate to and a smouldering, tall dark and drop-dead gorgeous hero with enough flaws to keep him interesting and human. When you add in rolling countryside, horses and dogs, the backdrop is as close to perfect as you can get.
I particularly enjoyed the more prickly and nasty characters. Everyone will have met a Rupert, Valentina or General Hunt in their time, not to mention the sleazy tutor or the predatory Henry. These characters make your hackles rise, and I am hoping in the next books of the series they will get the sort of treatment they deserve. They add a lot to the story, and make sure the path of true love isn’t an easy one.
The maddening (in a good way) end of this book leaves me keen to read the second in the series and find out where the characters go from here. I absolutely can’t wait for the next book now.
In summary, a guaranteed page-turner which is very hard to put down or stop thinking about when you’re not reading it. Bravo.
I received a copy of this book via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
September 20, 2015
1 stellina perchè sono gentile
Questo libro è insulso.
Ma tanto.
La storia d'amore non ha sentimenti, nemmeno uno.
I personaggi non pensano (e grazie al cielo abbiamo avuto a che fare solo con il POV di Lauren).
Ecco come sono state riempite 300 PAGINE di libro:
descrizione di vestiti talmente-costosi-che-non-voglio-nemmeno-sapere-che-esistono, descrizione di palazzi, sesso, altri vestiti, descrizione di opere d'artee, sesso, altro sesso, altri vestiti, ancora sesso, palazzi, vestiti, sesso, non ho ben capito che stia succedendo, vestiti, altro sesso, boh credo stiano litigando, boh grazie al cielo è finito
Questo libro è insulso.
Ma tanto.
La storia d'amore non ha sentimenti, nemmeno uno.
I personaggi non pensano (e grazie al cielo abbiamo avuto a che fare solo con il POV di Lauren).
Ecco come sono state riempite 300 PAGINE di libro:
descrizione di vestiti talmente-costosi-che-non-voglio-nemmeno-sapere-che-esistono, descrizione di palazzi, sesso, altri vestiti, descrizione di opere d'artee, sesso, altro sesso, altri vestiti, ancora sesso, palazzi, vestiti, sesso, non ho ben capito che stia succedendo, vestiti, altro sesso, boh credo stiano litigando, boh grazie al cielo è finito
February 16, 2014
The first book in the author's new series for a big publisher. A gripping story for anyone who loves the quirks of Oxbridge colleges and the upper classes all seen through the eyes of an outsider who knows how privileged she is and isn't in comparison. The ending is a bit of a cliffhanger, but we don't have many months to wait for part two. Definitely recommended.
February 24, 2014
Another great read by one of my favorite romance authors. If I had to describe the book using only two words...Smart and Sexy.
April 9, 2014
ARC received from Penguin Books via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
2.5 stars
Lauren Cusack has left her native Washington, US and arrived in Oxford to complete her masters?? Being a daughter of a politician, she is used to rubbing noses with the upper echelons of her society, whilst draped in the latest designer clothes.
She is introduced to her peers at the colleges daily evening feast, by a friendly face, Immy, who she had met on the stairs on arrival. She gets the measure of a certain Rupert quite quickly. An a-typical toff, he manages to rub her up the wrong way by the end of the dinner.
Her MO was to study hard with no distractions, but that all changes when she meets the broody, aristocratic Alexander Hunt. A detached, handsome, serious enigma, Alexander ensconces his way into Lauren’s life very quickly.
I felt the story had plenty of promise, if you could get past the designer name dropping *sigh*. The scenes were suitably descriptive, but in a lot of places ran into each other without pause!
This story had all the elements that would guarantee the “love� factor from me, but I guess it was down to the connection I just didn’t gain with this one.
2.5 stars
Lauren Cusack has left her native Washington, US and arrived in Oxford to complete her masters?? Being a daughter of a politician, she is used to rubbing noses with the upper echelons of her society, whilst draped in the latest designer clothes.
She is introduced to her peers at the colleges daily evening feast, by a friendly face, Immy, who she had met on the stairs on arrival. She gets the measure of a certain Rupert quite quickly. An a-typical toff, he manages to rub her up the wrong way by the end of the dinner.
Her MO was to study hard with no distractions, but that all changes when she meets the broody, aristocratic Alexander Hunt. A detached, handsome, serious enigma, Alexander ensconces his way into Lauren’s life very quickly.
”Bet you’d love to see my stately pile.�
I felt the story had plenty of promise, if you could get past the designer name dropping *sigh*. The scenes were suitably descriptive, but in a lot of places ran into each other without pause!
This story had all the elements that would guarantee the “love� factor from me, but I guess it was down to the connection I just didn’t gain with this one.
May 14, 2014
If you love stories about how the other half live then this is a must for you. Designer dresses, balls, hunts and a rather sexy lead make for a page-turning read set amongst the privileged in Oxford's university campus.
Feisty Lauren Cusack, comes to the UK to study but gets more than she bargains for when she meets Alexander Hunt. A titled, moody Alpha who is keeping secrets - what more could you want from a hero?
Pure, sexy escapism!
Feisty Lauren Cusack, comes to the UK to study but gets more than she bargains for when she meets Alexander Hunt. A titled, moody Alpha who is keeping secrets - what more could you want from a hero?
Pure, sexy escapism!
February 17, 2014
Ooh la la! A super-hot page turner that made my weekend. LOVED the British setting and loved to hate some of the ghastly toff secondary characters. Really looking forward to the next book!
July 28, 2015
Questo libro mi ha attirato sin da quando ho scritto la presentazione della Blue Trilogy per voi lettrici di CrazyforRomance, perché ammetto che nella trama ci sono molti elementi di cui vado pazza , ovvero un protagonista proveniente dall'antica nobiltà inglese (un retaggio che mi porto dietro dal mio amore per gli storici regency), un ambientazione tipica da luxury romance, un gusto tipicamente collegiale� in più ambientato negli storici, austeri collegi dell'università di Oxford. Più british di così� si muore. E onestamente Pippa Croft con me ha proprio fatto centro nello scegliere il background del suo romanzo perché ho adorato ogni dettaglio di questa ambientazione!
Pippa Croft ce la mette tutta per farci immergere appieno nell'atmosfera particolare della narrazione inserendo descrizioni molto dettagliate e precise, con tanto di riferimenti architettonici, dei luoghi del libro. La sua precisione si estende fino a delucidare molti dettagli di ciò che i personaggi hanno intorno a loro e del loro modo di vivere. Non nascondo che mi è stato necessaria qualche piccola ricerca - perché io sono il tipo che deve potersi figurare tutto in una lettura - ma dopo il primo impatto ho apprezzato questo sforzo da parte della Croft certamente necessario data la non comune ambientazione degli avvenimenti. E' evidente lo studio approfondito che c'è dietro questo aspetto e non posso fare altro che lodarlo.Lauren e Alexander non potrebbero essere più diversi, e la loro chimica in questo primo libro è immediata e si fonda su una connessione puramente fisica. Il personaggio di Alexander rimane quasi sempre composto e celato dietro una cortina di cortesia, che non ci permette ancora di conoscerlo appieno alla fine di questa lettura. Certo, è incredibilmente affascinante - diciamo pure irresistibile!
Lauren è molto più spontanea, una protagonista che finalmente non si fa mettere i piedi in testa dal primo che arriva. Mi sono piaciute le sue reazioni, la sua determinazione e soprattutto il suo dinamismo che hanno fatto sì che nonostante tutto il libro sia scritto dal suo punto di vista non mi sia mai annoiata!
Un debole sorriso gli illumina il volto e per un istante
i suoi affascinanti lineamenti austeri si ammorbidiscono.
Mio dio, è bellissimo. Spaventoso, ma divino.
Certamente, nel dare uno sguardo di insieme a questo libro, devo dire che mi ha sorpresa: comincia come un tipico new adult, tra uscite fra amici e incontri-scontri all'università, per poi trasformarsi in qualcosa di molto più simile ad un erotic romance quando i due protagonisti finalmente si avvicinano e non solo per le scene frequenti e bollenti di intimità ma anche per alcuni tipici cliché: lui bellissimo, potente e misteriosissimo, gli incubi notturni, le chiacchierate rivelatrici nella vasca� . E' stata interessante questa mescolanza di generi, che ha creato un romanzo nuovo e difficilmente categorizzabile anche se devo ammettere che il libro per me ha acquisito una marcia in più nell'ultima parte - ambientata nella residenza degli Hunt - dove s'è aggiunto quel pizzico di tensione narrativa in più che mi ha decisamente catturata.
Continua a leggere su
Pippa Croft ce la mette tutta per farci immergere appieno nell'atmosfera particolare della narrazione inserendo descrizioni molto dettagliate e precise, con tanto di riferimenti architettonici, dei luoghi del libro. La sua precisione si estende fino a delucidare molti dettagli di ciò che i personaggi hanno intorno a loro e del loro modo di vivere. Non nascondo che mi è stato necessaria qualche piccola ricerca - perché io sono il tipo che deve potersi figurare tutto in una lettura - ma dopo il primo impatto ho apprezzato questo sforzo da parte della Croft certamente necessario data la non comune ambientazione degli avvenimenti. E' evidente lo studio approfondito che c'è dietro questo aspetto e non posso fare altro che lodarlo.Lauren e Alexander non potrebbero essere più diversi, e la loro chimica in questo primo libro è immediata e si fonda su una connessione puramente fisica. Il personaggio di Alexander rimane quasi sempre composto e celato dietro una cortina di cortesia, che non ci permette ancora di conoscerlo appieno alla fine di questa lettura. Certo, è incredibilmente affascinante - diciamo pure irresistibile!
Lauren è molto più spontanea, una protagonista che finalmente non si fa mettere i piedi in testa dal primo che arriva. Mi sono piaciute le sue reazioni, la sua determinazione e soprattutto il suo dinamismo che hanno fatto sì che nonostante tutto il libro sia scritto dal suo punto di vista non mi sia mai annoiata!
Un debole sorriso gli illumina il volto e per un istante
i suoi affascinanti lineamenti austeri si ammorbidiscono.
Mio dio, è bellissimo. Spaventoso, ma divino.
Certamente, nel dare uno sguardo di insieme a questo libro, devo dire che mi ha sorpresa: comincia come un tipico new adult, tra uscite fra amici e incontri-scontri all'università, per poi trasformarsi in qualcosa di molto più simile ad un erotic romance quando i due protagonisti finalmente si avvicinano e non solo per le scene frequenti e bollenti di intimità ma anche per alcuni tipici cliché: lui bellissimo, potente e misteriosissimo, gli incubi notturni, le chiacchierate rivelatrici nella vasca� . E' stata interessante questa mescolanza di generi, che ha creato un romanzo nuovo e difficilmente categorizzabile anche se devo ammettere che il libro per me ha acquisito una marcia in più nell'ultima parte - ambientata nella residenza degli Hunt - dove s'è aggiunto quel pizzico di tensione narrativa in più che mi ha decisamente catturata.
Continua a leggere su
July 25, 2015
Se Pippa Middleton aveva intenzione di scrivere un libro sulle avventure erotiche di sua sorella Kate con il principino Will poteva tranquillamente usare il suo cognome di battesimo e non identificarsi con Croft.. Tanto che c'era poteva cambiare il nome in Lara..
Beh, non voglio dire che il libro sia orribile, dopotutto l'ho letto senza problemi perché scorre molto velocemente..
Ci troviamo davanti al solito figo, stile Alex Pettyfer, che la protagonista adocchia fin da subito ammirando con una vista di 360` il suo fantastico culo.. Sì, prima ne elogia le grazie posteriori e poi riesce come per magia a collegare il lato B con il proprietario.. cosa non da poco perché, diciamolo, non tutti ne sono capaci..forse solo lei... ok...
E così, dopo vari tira e molla, la nostra Kate cade finalmente tra le braccia di Will.. scusate, Lauren cade tra le braccia di Alexander.. mai chiamarlo Alex eh!?.... passando per contorzionismi e capriole che manco i conigli sono in grado di ripetere..
La storia giunge finalmente all'agognato finale, direte voi? No perché la nostra cara Pippa ci ha lasciato con un bel colpo di scena.. finale già visto però mi rode non sapere cosa succederà a questi due...uffa..
Sì sì.. so che poi si sposano, fanno due splendide creature.. tranquilli, so tutto ma non si sa mai che questa abbia voluto cambiar qualcosa..:-D
Beh, non voglio dire che il libro sia orribile, dopotutto l'ho letto senza problemi perché scorre molto velocemente..
Ci troviamo davanti al solito figo, stile Alex Pettyfer, che la protagonista adocchia fin da subito ammirando con una vista di 360` il suo fantastico culo.. Sì, prima ne elogia le grazie posteriori e poi riesce come per magia a collegare il lato B con il proprietario.. cosa non da poco perché, diciamolo, non tutti ne sono capaci..forse solo lei... ok...
E così, dopo vari tira e molla, la nostra Kate cade finalmente tra le braccia di Will.. scusate, Lauren cade tra le braccia di Alexander.. mai chiamarlo Alex eh!?.... passando per contorzionismi e capriole che manco i conigli sono in grado di ripetere..
La storia giunge finalmente all'agognato finale, direte voi? No perché la nostra cara Pippa ci ha lasciato con un bel colpo di scena.. finale già visto però mi rode non sapere cosa succederà a questi due...uffa..
Sì sì.. so che poi si sposano, fanno due splendide creature.. tranquilli, so tutto ma non si sa mai che questa abbia voluto cambiar qualcosa..:-D
April 9, 2014
Got this from Netgalley and I read this as my drying my hair book. It's cheesy, trashy and I kinda loved it. Made me giggle, but I definitely would not read this out in public. A bit rude!!
June 15, 2014
'The First Time We Met' is the first novel in The Oxford Blue Series. Lauren Cusack, an US Senator's daughter gets her first real taste of independence studying for her Master's degree in the academic excellence of Oxford. On her first night in Oxford she flees from an uncomfortable encounter with Rupert a vicious snob and lecher and runs headlong into a sexy, enigmatic Alexander. The spark of passion between them is unforgettable. Alexander ruthlessly pursues her. Drawn like a moth to a flame Lauren gives into her desires and they begin their wildly erotic love story.
Lauren struggles to understand and condone the values of this alien society but despite this she is hooked on Alexander and feeds her addiction at every opportunity. Alexander hides a seething mass of angst, guilt and hatred. Lauren jeopardises her career and happiness to save him.
'The First Time We Met' is easy, addictive reading. A serendipitous saga of passion, sensuality, prejudices and poignancy and I look forward to the next in the series.
I received a copy of this book from Penguin Books UK via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
June 6, 2014
SERIOUSLY HOT, BUT....
Lauren Cusack the daughter of an American senator, has arrived to study in England at Wyckham College Oxford. It's here she meets the enigmatic, sexy and very compelling Alexander Hunt. He's the son of a marquis and very upper class.
There's a connection between Alexander and Lauren, which after a few false starts they decide to explore. Of course there's an ex girlfriend lurking in the background.
While I liked this, it wasn't without things that were a problem for me. I really liked Lauren she was a very relatable character. Alexander was a bit too moody for me, I didn't quite get Lauren's attraction to him. As to the rest of the cast I think they'd been bussed in from the 1930's! There's Imogen or Immy as she likes to be called and Rupert or Rupes as he's known there were more but you get the gist. I half expected them to come out with phrases like jolly hockey sticks, they were so cliched and so old fashioned. I thought that the student body at Oxford was more diverse in this day and age, not that you'd guess that from this book. Quite frankly the hot sex didn't quite save this for me.
ARC courtesy of Penguin UK and NetGalley
Lauren Cusack the daughter of an American senator, has arrived to study in England at Wyckham College Oxford. It's here she meets the enigmatic, sexy and very compelling Alexander Hunt. He's the son of a marquis and very upper class.
There's a connection between Alexander and Lauren, which after a few false starts they decide to explore. Of course there's an ex girlfriend lurking in the background.
While I liked this, it wasn't without things that were a problem for me. I really liked Lauren she was a very relatable character. Alexander was a bit too moody for me, I didn't quite get Lauren's attraction to him. As to the rest of the cast I think they'd been bussed in from the 1930's! There's Imogen or Immy as she likes to be called and Rupert or Rupes as he's known there were more but you get the gist. I half expected them to come out with phrases like jolly hockey sticks, they were so cliched and so old fashioned. I thought that the student body at Oxford was more diverse in this day and age, not that you'd guess that from this book. Quite frankly the hot sex didn't quite save this for me.
ARC courtesy of Penguin UK and NetGalley
September 19, 2014
I wish this book - or series of books, could be made into a TV series. Okay, perhaps the hot scenes (boiling) would have to be toned down a little, but it would certainly liven up a Sunday night! Croft manages to evoke aspects of one of my favourite shows, Morse. Her knowledge of Oxford and its beautiful portrayal has me walking through the streets and living the grandeur and history of the place. Throw into this is the feisty American, Lauren, who wants to put a broken heart behind her and just get on with her studies, and Alexander, the charismatic English aristocrat who refuses to let her. Lauren is inexorably drawn to him like a moth to a flame. Does she get her wings burnt? Well, you'll have to read it to find out. I will be reading the other two!
July 6, 2014
Avevo bisogno di un libro così.
La mia mente stressata ne aveva bisogno.
Il mio cuoricino melassoso ne aveva bisogno.
E il mio animo di lettrice (troppo spesso) delusa dal genere NA ne aveva bisogno.
Sarà l'ambientazione favolosa, sarà Alexander Hunt, sarà la capacità di Pippa Croft di tenere le redini della storia dall'inizio alla fine. Fatto sta che mi sono goduta questo libro dalla prima all'ultima parola.
Ho già iniziato il secondo, e la meraviglia si sta ripetendo.
Consigliatissimo.
La mia mente stressata ne aveva bisogno.
Il mio cuoricino melassoso ne aveva bisogno.
E il mio animo di lettrice (troppo spesso) delusa dal genere NA ne aveva bisogno.
Sarà l'ambientazione favolosa, sarà Alexander Hunt, sarà la capacità di Pippa Croft di tenere le redini della storia dall'inizio alla fine. Fatto sta che mi sono goduta questo libro dalla prima all'ultima parola.
Ho già iniziato il secondo, e la meraviglia si sta ripetendo.
Consigliatissimo.
December 26, 2014
I felt like this story could have been great, it has potential but it was lacking in depth and detail. None of the events or characters were described fully other than the scenes that consisted of the sexual intercourse! I can not imagine what Alexander is like in my head because his introduction to Lauren is rather hasty and unclear!
July 28, 2015
3 stelline e mezzo
La recensione qui --->
La recensione qui --->
September 6, 2017
Buon pomeriggio, readers!
Oggi parliamo del primo libro della trilogia “Blue� di Pippa Croft intitolato “La prima volta che ti ho incontrato�, edito dalla Newton Compton Editori.
Il libro ci narra di Lauren Cusack, figlia di un senatore, che si appresta a lasciare l'America per andare a frequentare un master post laurea alla Oxford University. Lei vorrebbe, attraverso lo studio, mettersi alle spalle la delusione d'amore subita, ma il suo intento viene sconvolto da Alexander Hunt, bellissimo e volitivo aristocratico che studia relazioni internazionali e fa parte dell'esercito britannico. Lei cerca di resistergli, magari non con troppo impegno effettivamente, ma d'altronde Alexander è fermamente intenzionato ad averla. Entrambi si rendono conto che sarebbe meglio che ognuno continuasse a percorrere la propria strada, ma proprio non riescono a stare lontani. La passione è fortissima e ad alimentarla contribuiscono i loro
caratteri diametralmente opposti. L'autrice, fino ad allora a me sconosciuta, ha reso la trama abbastanza chiara: la relazione di Lauren e Alexander è inizialmente puramente fisica, sia perché Lauren non riesce a fidarsi e ha paura di rimanere scottata di nuovo sia perchè lui non le fa presagire nulla di diverso. Eppure iniziano gelosie varie, si conoscono meglio e i sentimenti inevitabilmente prendono forma e, ovviamente, le cose si complicano. Le complicazioni nascono dal fatto che quando sono da soli sono perfetti insieme, quando iniziano a fare vita sociale le loro diversità caratteriali, le esperienze culturali che li hanno formati, vengono fuori con prepotenza e fanno sì che si allontanino. Il libro non ha un ritmo particolarmente incalzante, a tratti è un po' piatto, ma verso il finale si riprende poiché a Lauren viene data l'occasione di conoscere la famiglia di Alexander e di scoprire qualcosa in più su di lui. Siamo però destinate a rimanere a bocca asciutta perché la narrazione si conclude. Gli altri personaggi in qualche modo movimentano la situazione, sebbene non ho avuto particolare simpatia per Valentina, ex di Alexander, spocchiosa e indisponente come poche e, diciamocela tutta, neanche per lui, che ho ritenuto troppo altezzoso e sicuro di sé. Lauren, secondo me, andava resa un tantino più “tosta�, invece in tante occasioni l'ho trovata troppo remissiva. Detta così sembra quasi che vi sconsigli di leggere il libro, in realtà ho trovato del potenziale che poi viene espresso meglio nelle successive narrazioni. Alexander è un personaggio tutto sommato interessante, atteggiamento a parte, perché si intuisce che nasconde qualcosa. Lauren è una ragazza dolce e con le idee chiare, tranne quando si parla di Alexander: lì perde completamente la bussola e anche la spina dorsale. Avrei onestamente messo in pentola meno sesso, un po' più di dialogo e informazioni che ci aiutassero ad andare oltre l'altezzosità di Alexander. Questo libro parte lento per poi velocizzarsi man mano che ci si avvicina al finale. Vedrete, riuscirete a scorgere il buono che sarà poi reso meglio nel seguito della trilogia.
Alla prossima!
Oggi parliamo del primo libro della trilogia “Blue� di Pippa Croft intitolato “La prima volta che ti ho incontrato�, edito dalla Newton Compton Editori.
Il libro ci narra di Lauren Cusack, figlia di un senatore, che si appresta a lasciare l'America per andare a frequentare un master post laurea alla Oxford University. Lei vorrebbe, attraverso lo studio, mettersi alle spalle la delusione d'amore subita, ma il suo intento viene sconvolto da Alexander Hunt, bellissimo e volitivo aristocratico che studia relazioni internazionali e fa parte dell'esercito britannico. Lei cerca di resistergli, magari non con troppo impegno effettivamente, ma d'altronde Alexander è fermamente intenzionato ad averla. Entrambi si rendono conto che sarebbe meglio che ognuno continuasse a percorrere la propria strada, ma proprio non riescono a stare lontani. La passione è fortissima e ad alimentarla contribuiscono i loro
caratteri diametralmente opposti. L'autrice, fino ad allora a me sconosciuta, ha reso la trama abbastanza chiara: la relazione di Lauren e Alexander è inizialmente puramente fisica, sia perché Lauren non riesce a fidarsi e ha paura di rimanere scottata di nuovo sia perchè lui non le fa presagire nulla di diverso. Eppure iniziano gelosie varie, si conoscono meglio e i sentimenti inevitabilmente prendono forma e, ovviamente, le cose si complicano. Le complicazioni nascono dal fatto che quando sono da soli sono perfetti insieme, quando iniziano a fare vita sociale le loro diversità caratteriali, le esperienze culturali che li hanno formati, vengono fuori con prepotenza e fanno sì che si allontanino. Il libro non ha un ritmo particolarmente incalzante, a tratti è un po' piatto, ma verso il finale si riprende poiché a Lauren viene data l'occasione di conoscere la famiglia di Alexander e di scoprire qualcosa in più su di lui. Siamo però destinate a rimanere a bocca asciutta perché la narrazione si conclude. Gli altri personaggi in qualche modo movimentano la situazione, sebbene non ho avuto particolare simpatia per Valentina, ex di Alexander, spocchiosa e indisponente come poche e, diciamocela tutta, neanche per lui, che ho ritenuto troppo altezzoso e sicuro di sé. Lauren, secondo me, andava resa un tantino più “tosta�, invece in tante occasioni l'ho trovata troppo remissiva. Detta così sembra quasi che vi sconsigli di leggere il libro, in realtà ho trovato del potenziale che poi viene espresso meglio nelle successive narrazioni. Alexander è un personaggio tutto sommato interessante, atteggiamento a parte, perché si intuisce che nasconde qualcosa. Lauren è una ragazza dolce e con le idee chiare, tranne quando si parla di Alexander: lì perde completamente la bussola e anche la spina dorsale. Avrei onestamente messo in pentola meno sesso, un po' più di dialogo e informazioni che ci aiutassero ad andare oltre l'altezzosità di Alexander. Questo libro parte lento per poi velocizzarsi man mano che ci si avvicina al finale. Vedrete, riuscirete a scorgere il buono che sarà poi reso meglio nel seguito della trilogia.
Alla prossima!
September 2, 2020
È il primo libro di una trilogia e nonostante sia una storia accattivante, piena di emozioni, ricca di avvenimenti è soprattutto piena di errori che ne disturbano la lettura.
Ho amato il viaggio che mi ha fatto fare nei luoghi descritti e nei sentimenti.
Ho amato il viaggio che mi ha fatto fare nei luoghi descritti e nei sentimenti.
May 10, 2014
The First Time We Met, The Oxford Blue Series 1, Pippa Croft.
Review from Jeannie Zelos book reviews
I made a stupid mistake requesting The Second Time I saw You, ( review to come) as I thought it was a stand alone...however its a trilogy, and I was blown away by that part so had to get the first part just to see how it all started. I read a lot, 700-800 books a year, and contemporary romance is a genre I love but which carries a lot of bland, easy reading novels. That's fine for many readers who want that but I need more, and this trilogy supplies all the drama, angst and emotion I need! In spades :-)
Lauren is a great female lead, intelligent and confident, she's come to UK to study for her Masters. Her family are high in the US political scene, and while she loves them dearly they can be over protective, so her year in the UK is a chance to find her own feet. She's recently broken up with her boyfriend too � they'd been together some time but things weren't right, and this gives her a fresh start with new people and lifestyle. She's not looking for a new boyfriend but accidentally runs into Alexander � always Alexander, never Alex! He's very strong minded, rules are for others and he breaks them at every point. A member of the English nobility he's trying to escape his own past, not happy in the entrenched, traditional role set out for him in life. He's carrying a lot of secrets � oh I love that, potential for so much drama!! He's drawn to Lauren and she to him from their first meeting, even though it doesn't go well. She knows from his reputation he's the last person she needs to get involved with, and he really doesn't need more entanglements in his complicated life, but somehow they can't stay away. Alexander is master of the grand gesture, and not taking no for an answer, and soon they're embroiled in a hot and heavy relationship. The sex is sizzling, sensual, steamy passion beautifully written and fits perfectly within the novel. I love erotic novels but need a good story backing it, and this one is just perfect.
Slowly though a few secrets creep out, there are some misunderstandings and some fierce jealousies on both sides. There's the sleazy Professor Rafe who makes Lauren very uneasy and who warns her off Alexander, there's Alexander's father who's very anti Lauren, Valentina from Alexander's past � and present who's just the perfect bitch, and clearly isn't going away, and his cousin Rupert, who clearly doesn't like Lauren and insinuates to her that she's just not good enough for Alexander, that he needs someone born to the role, not an American who knows nothing about English country life and lifestyles. . I love those characters, people who are determined, and takes every opportunity to turn the screw and cause problems. There's too few romances that do this well � this one has it spot on.
I'm really, really impatient for book three now, due out in autumn. I hate trilogies with long intervals between releases, the story loses momentum for me but this isn't such a huge gap between parts, and its definitely one for my keeper files for re reading back to back � that's the way I love to read the best romances.
Stars: a very well deserved five, nothing I can fault, just a fabulous emotion filled, dramatic read.
ARC supplied via Netgalley
Review from Jeannie Zelos book reviews
I made a stupid mistake requesting The Second Time I saw You, ( review to come) as I thought it was a stand alone...however its a trilogy, and I was blown away by that part so had to get the first part just to see how it all started. I read a lot, 700-800 books a year, and contemporary romance is a genre I love but which carries a lot of bland, easy reading novels. That's fine for many readers who want that but I need more, and this trilogy supplies all the drama, angst and emotion I need! In spades :-)
Lauren is a great female lead, intelligent and confident, she's come to UK to study for her Masters. Her family are high in the US political scene, and while she loves them dearly they can be over protective, so her year in the UK is a chance to find her own feet. She's recently broken up with her boyfriend too � they'd been together some time but things weren't right, and this gives her a fresh start with new people and lifestyle. She's not looking for a new boyfriend but accidentally runs into Alexander � always Alexander, never Alex! He's very strong minded, rules are for others and he breaks them at every point. A member of the English nobility he's trying to escape his own past, not happy in the entrenched, traditional role set out for him in life. He's carrying a lot of secrets � oh I love that, potential for so much drama!! He's drawn to Lauren and she to him from their first meeting, even though it doesn't go well. She knows from his reputation he's the last person she needs to get involved with, and he really doesn't need more entanglements in his complicated life, but somehow they can't stay away. Alexander is master of the grand gesture, and not taking no for an answer, and soon they're embroiled in a hot and heavy relationship. The sex is sizzling, sensual, steamy passion beautifully written and fits perfectly within the novel. I love erotic novels but need a good story backing it, and this one is just perfect.
Slowly though a few secrets creep out, there are some misunderstandings and some fierce jealousies on both sides. There's the sleazy Professor Rafe who makes Lauren very uneasy and who warns her off Alexander, there's Alexander's father who's very anti Lauren, Valentina from Alexander's past � and present who's just the perfect bitch, and clearly isn't going away, and his cousin Rupert, who clearly doesn't like Lauren and insinuates to her that she's just not good enough for Alexander, that he needs someone born to the role, not an American who knows nothing about English country life and lifestyles. . I love those characters, people who are determined, and takes every opportunity to turn the screw and cause problems. There's too few romances that do this well � this one has it spot on.
I'm really, really impatient for book three now, due out in autumn. I hate trilogies with long intervals between releases, the story loses momentum for me but this isn't such a huge gap between parts, and its definitely one for my keeper files for re reading back to back � that's the way I love to read the best romances.
Stars: a very well deserved five, nothing I can fault, just a fabulous emotion filled, dramatic read.
ARC supplied via Netgalley
May 11, 2014
4.5-5*
I was first introduced to this book and author after I took part in a promo blitz for it ran by GG Book Tours. I liked the sound of it but hadn’t got around to reading it until just recently. It’s the first book in Pippa Croft’s Oxford Blue series.
So the story follows American student Lauren as she comes to England to attend Oxford University. There she meets Alexander and finds it hard to resist his advances even though the purpose of moving to England was to stay away from men.
I really love the cover of this book. It’s simple, suggestive and eye catching. I also like that this book came with the recommendation that if you enjoyed Samantha Young you might enjoy this book. I am a HUGE Samantha Young fan so that really clinched it for me.
Lauren’s immediately a fish out of water when she moves to England to go to Oxford. Her family, her accent, her personality which is reservedly, genuinely nice compared to the stereotypical jumped up snobbery prevalent in the other Oxford students. I love that prevalent is synonymous with rampant as it really accurately describes these personality traits in the fictional upper-class students in the story.
I immediately felt a connection with Lauren which is probably due to the difference in her personality from the personality of her peers. There is a bit of history with an ex-boyfriend which isn’t fully explored until later on in the book when Lauren takes stock of her current relationship and finds that in some way it’s not too different, and it’s exactly what she wanted to stay away from.
The character I didn’t feel any connection with was Alexander. While I imagined him as gorgeous, he was really just too polite, disconnected and distant from the story, from his life at Oxford and from Lauren in a relationship capacity. The only thing that really seemed to matter to him was his career in service. He’s described by Lauren as “icily polite� and as having “cryogenic civility�. I think that really hits the nail on the head but didn’t see how what appeared to be a purely physical attraction could lack the chemistry I felt it did.
Having said that, towards the end of the book, when the characters are forced to show their true colours the chemistry between them starts to spark. I think that when emotions really got going Alexander was capable of showing a side to him that shows a man who will fight for what he wants and a man who can be passionate. I just didn’t feel like he was passionate about his relationship with Lauren at the start of the book.
The sex scenes between the characters are hot but carry over some of the icy civility on Alexander’s part for me. The language is sometimes explicit but always expressive and doesn’t take away from the story in my opinion.
We are introduced to some other characters who seem like they play an important part in Alexander’s past and present and I’m looking forward to their involvement in the story developing in the next book which is out in May. I’m also looking forward to some of the chemistry that I started to see between Alexander and Lauren become something more.
I was first introduced to this book and author after I took part in a promo blitz for it ran by GG Book Tours. I liked the sound of it but hadn’t got around to reading it until just recently. It’s the first book in Pippa Croft’s Oxford Blue series.
So the story follows American student Lauren as she comes to England to attend Oxford University. There she meets Alexander and finds it hard to resist his advances even though the purpose of moving to England was to stay away from men.
I really love the cover of this book. It’s simple, suggestive and eye catching. I also like that this book came with the recommendation that if you enjoyed Samantha Young you might enjoy this book. I am a HUGE Samantha Young fan so that really clinched it for me.
Lauren’s immediately a fish out of water when she moves to England to go to Oxford. Her family, her accent, her personality which is reservedly, genuinely nice compared to the stereotypical jumped up snobbery prevalent in the other Oxford students. I love that prevalent is synonymous with rampant as it really accurately describes these personality traits in the fictional upper-class students in the story.
I immediately felt a connection with Lauren which is probably due to the difference in her personality from the personality of her peers. There is a bit of history with an ex-boyfriend which isn’t fully explored until later on in the book when Lauren takes stock of her current relationship and finds that in some way it’s not too different, and it’s exactly what she wanted to stay away from.
The character I didn’t feel any connection with was Alexander. While I imagined him as gorgeous, he was really just too polite, disconnected and distant from the story, from his life at Oxford and from Lauren in a relationship capacity. The only thing that really seemed to matter to him was his career in service. He’s described by Lauren as “icily polite� and as having “cryogenic civility�. I think that really hits the nail on the head but didn’t see how what appeared to be a purely physical attraction could lack the chemistry I felt it did.
Having said that, towards the end of the book, when the characters are forced to show their true colours the chemistry between them starts to spark. I think that when emotions really got going Alexander was capable of showing a side to him that shows a man who will fight for what he wants and a man who can be passionate. I just didn’t feel like he was passionate about his relationship with Lauren at the start of the book.
The sex scenes between the characters are hot but carry over some of the icy civility on Alexander’s part for me. The language is sometimes explicit but always expressive and doesn’t take away from the story in my opinion.
We are introduced to some other characters who seem like they play an important part in Alexander’s past and present and I’m looking forward to their involvement in the story developing in the next book which is out in May. I’m also looking forward to some of the chemistry that I started to see between Alexander and Lauren become something more.
August 19, 2014
I was really excited at the prospect of reading ‘The First Time We Met� as being a Brit, there aren’t all that many books set in England in this genre, and as much as I’ve loved all the American books I’ve read, I did feel sometimes that I had trouble relating to them because they were all set in the States. ‘The First Time We Met� took me on a journey in my favourite British City ‘Oxford�, and my god was this a great journey, one that has made me laugh and cry, and I know will continue to niggle at me until I read the next books in the series.
Lauren was a brilliant heroine, and a character that I feel a lot of young people will relate to, especially when it comes to making choices about their future. I really liked the approach she had towards her life, and in particular her relationship with Alexander, as she made it clear that despite her strong feelings for him, she wasn’t looking too far into the future when it came to their relationship, instead just taking it a day at a time. All too often I read New Adult and even Adult books where the heroine falls in love with the hero within a month and is hoping for a proposal or planning a wedding. As lovely as this is, I instead felt a really strong kinship with Lauren who instead thought like a young girl who had her whole life in front of her, a life that she wanted to make for herself.
Now Alexander. *sighs* He is well on the way to becoming a favourite book boyfriend of mine, and the last page of this book, as well as the great character development he made throughout this first book in the series, definitely had me rooting for him. I loved the dark and mysterious persona that he has, which he tries to hide from those he cares about, and I really liked how in the end his issues with his family and his past that he was so desperately trying to ignore, were in fact the things that started to come between him and Lauren. The psychological undertones that began in this novel are one of the things that have really intrigued me and have me waiting on tenterhooks to read the next book in the series.
The storyline was a beautiful one, and the writing style is something that is both easy to read, and packed with meaning and heart. Although the last chapter broke my heart, I felt really pleased with the road that the author took with these characters, and I am excited to see how the ending of this book will impact Lauren and Alexander in the next book, and to help them grow stronger as both individuals and perhaps as a couple.
5 Stars to this brilliant first book in the series, and I can definitely say I will be devouring the next books in the series as soon as they become available.
* Review Copy was provided by the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review*
Lauren was a brilliant heroine, and a character that I feel a lot of young people will relate to, especially when it comes to making choices about their future. I really liked the approach she had towards her life, and in particular her relationship with Alexander, as she made it clear that despite her strong feelings for him, she wasn’t looking too far into the future when it came to their relationship, instead just taking it a day at a time. All too often I read New Adult and even Adult books where the heroine falls in love with the hero within a month and is hoping for a proposal or planning a wedding. As lovely as this is, I instead felt a really strong kinship with Lauren who instead thought like a young girl who had her whole life in front of her, a life that she wanted to make for herself.
Now Alexander. *sighs* He is well on the way to becoming a favourite book boyfriend of mine, and the last page of this book, as well as the great character development he made throughout this first book in the series, definitely had me rooting for him. I loved the dark and mysterious persona that he has, which he tries to hide from those he cares about, and I really liked how in the end his issues with his family and his past that he was so desperately trying to ignore, were in fact the things that started to come between him and Lauren. The psychological undertones that began in this novel are one of the things that have really intrigued me and have me waiting on tenterhooks to read the next book in the series.
The storyline was a beautiful one, and the writing style is something that is both easy to read, and packed with meaning and heart. Although the last chapter broke my heart, I felt really pleased with the road that the author took with these characters, and I am excited to see how the ending of this book will impact Lauren and Alexander in the next book, and to help them grow stronger as both individuals and perhaps as a couple.
5 Stars to this brilliant first book in the series, and I can definitely say I will be devouring the next books in the series as soon as they become available.
* Review Copy was provided by the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review*
June 28, 2014
I was lucky enough to receive a free preview reading copy of the book from Netgalley.
Lauren Cusak arrives at Oxford, after a struggle with her parents to let her move from America to England to complete her masters degree. She is the daughter of the US Senate and just had her heart broken by her long term boyfriend. She is determined not to let anything get in the way of her studies, but that all changes when she bumps into Alexander Hunt in the corridors on her first night at the University.
There is some electricity that sparks between them on this first encounter, but I didn't really get the feeling that it was as intense as it was made out to be. They left feeling that they should stay away from each other when actually they were drawn to each other.
The story goes on, explaining how Lauren and Alexander's relationship progresses and this seems to be the whole basis of the story. Apart from the repulsive Rupert, Alexander's cousin, who is determined to make a move on Lauren, and Scott, Lauren's ex boyfriends cousin, who just happens to also be studying at the same university in England!
I have to say that I didn't really get this book. I'm not sure if it was trying to be 50 Shades of Grey or not. If it was, then it wasn't done very well. There were some intense sex scenes between the two of them, which were very well written. They were very graphic, however they didn't quite fit into the context of the book, and although they are both over 21, the fact that they are still 'at school' made them a bit strange to read.
I felt that the book was quite slow, and I couldn't see where it was going until it got the last chapters where it turned out that it was going to result in jealousy and the fact that society was suggesting that they shouldn't be together. It ended on a very predictable note, leaving the story wide open for the next book, which I also have a copy of and will be reviewing soon.
I don't think that the book was for me, but I will be reading the next one to see where it goes from here. I would recommend this to readers around the 18-22 age mark who enjoy reading light romantic fiction and who won't shy away from the graphic sex scenes scattered throughout the book.
Lauren Cusak arrives at Oxford, after a struggle with her parents to let her move from America to England to complete her masters degree. She is the daughter of the US Senate and just had her heart broken by her long term boyfriend. She is determined not to let anything get in the way of her studies, but that all changes when she bumps into Alexander Hunt in the corridors on her first night at the University.
There is some electricity that sparks between them on this first encounter, but I didn't really get the feeling that it was as intense as it was made out to be. They left feeling that they should stay away from each other when actually they were drawn to each other.
The story goes on, explaining how Lauren and Alexander's relationship progresses and this seems to be the whole basis of the story. Apart from the repulsive Rupert, Alexander's cousin, who is determined to make a move on Lauren, and Scott, Lauren's ex boyfriends cousin, who just happens to also be studying at the same university in England!
I have to say that I didn't really get this book. I'm not sure if it was trying to be 50 Shades of Grey or not. If it was, then it wasn't done very well. There were some intense sex scenes between the two of them, which were very well written. They were very graphic, however they didn't quite fit into the context of the book, and although they are both over 21, the fact that they are still 'at school' made them a bit strange to read.
I felt that the book was quite slow, and I couldn't see where it was going until it got the last chapters where it turned out that it was going to result in jealousy and the fact that society was suggesting that they shouldn't be together. It ended on a very predictable note, leaving the story wide open for the next book, which I also have a copy of and will be reviewing soon.
I don't think that the book was for me, but I will be reading the next one to see where it goes from here. I would recommend this to readers around the 18-22 age mark who enjoy reading light romantic fiction and who won't shy away from the graphic sex scenes scattered throughout the book.
July 28, 2014
This is Pippa Croft's debut novel and the first in a trilogy. The second book is already available as an eBook and the third will be available in October. I can't wait to find out what happens with Lauren and Alexander next. I had high hopes for this book and all of them manifested. I read this 360 page book in about three and half hours. It's safe to say I devoured it.
Lauren is a sweetheart. I love how she wants to be independent and true to herself. She's been hurt in the past, and not much has been revealed about that, but it's affecting her relationship with Alexander. Opening up and letting Alexander in is hard for her. Alexander has his own issues which aren't dealt in full either. He doesn't open up at all. Things are revealed here and there, but Alexander and Pippa have managed to keep me guessing.
I was hooked from the first page. The chemistry between Lauren and Alexander is explosive and the book is hot. I love how the majority of the book is focused on Lauren and Alexander adjusting to each other and their issues, and not just them falling into bed together, although I enjoyed that part too. For all the American readers, please know there is lots of British lingo in the book. I didn't see a glossary or index, but the good news is it's not too hard to figure out what is being referred to.
Another warning, the book does end on a sort of cliffhanger. It was enough to make me mentally scream and think, "Oh my goodness! What happens next?! I have to know! Where's the second book?" Pippa Croft has written a fantastic new adult novel. I can't wait to get more Lauren, Alexander, and the rest of the gang excluding Rupert, Valentina, and the General. I could definitely do without them! I can also tell you right now these books with their gorgeous covers will be going onto my keeper shelves. I do believe this is the first truly British new adult novel I've read and I love it. I want more books like this please!
Lauren is a sweetheart. I love how she wants to be independent and true to herself. She's been hurt in the past, and not much has been revealed about that, but it's affecting her relationship with Alexander. Opening up and letting Alexander in is hard for her. Alexander has his own issues which aren't dealt in full either. He doesn't open up at all. Things are revealed here and there, but Alexander and Pippa have managed to keep me guessing.
I was hooked from the first page. The chemistry between Lauren and Alexander is explosive and the book is hot. I love how the majority of the book is focused on Lauren and Alexander adjusting to each other and their issues, and not just them falling into bed together, although I enjoyed that part too. For all the American readers, please know there is lots of British lingo in the book. I didn't see a glossary or index, but the good news is it's not too hard to figure out what is being referred to.
Another warning, the book does end on a sort of cliffhanger. It was enough to make me mentally scream and think, "Oh my goodness! What happens next?! I have to know! Where's the second book?" Pippa Croft has written a fantastic new adult novel. I can't wait to get more Lauren, Alexander, and the rest of the gang excluding Rupert, Valentina, and the General. I could definitely do without them! I can also tell you right now these books with their gorgeous covers will be going onto my keeper shelves. I do believe this is the first truly British new adult novel I've read and I love it. I want more books like this please!
May 28, 2014
I'd heard so many fantastic things about this book that I couldn't put off reading it any longer. And once I started it I was engrossed. Totally and utterly engrossed. Here's what I loved about this book.
This is an unapologetic sizzling romance full of lust and desire. I love a good steamy passion-fest and this was perfect. Lauren Cusack is the stereotypical well-to-do American abroad, studying for a Masters in art at Wyndham College, Oxford. However, studying isn't all she is doing in Oxford- Lauren is charmed by Alexander Hunt, the future Marquess of Falconbury, and he proves to be a major distraction... To be honest, I can't blame her for falling for his charms. He's all enigma and testosterone, completely masculine. Yum. There is so much sexual tension in this book. Pippa Croft captures the overwhelming physical attraction between Lauren and Alexander and my kindle was steaming up when the inevitable finally happened. It was hot. REALLY hot.
However, The First Time We Met is not just out and out smut (not that there is anything wrong with that, I just like a bit of story with my sex scenes). The rest of the Oxford set, Lauren's best friend Immy, arrogant posh toffs Rupert, Gideon and Piers, bitchy Valentina and a pervy professor are interesting characters who add depth to the story. I also loved the university setting with the famous dreaming spires and Lauren's charming attic bedroom. When we are later thrown into life at Falconbury, old money and prestige reign. It is a competitive world, full of male bravado and opinionated women waiting to made snide remarks. If you can imagine Made in Chelsea in a novel, you won't be far off The First Time We Met. Sex, drama, elitism, but above all else, completely addictive. I loved it and moved straight onto the second book in the series, something I rarely do!
It's fair to say Lauren and Alexander had me begging for more...
The First Time We Met is out now, published by Penguin.
This is an unapologetic sizzling romance full of lust and desire. I love a good steamy passion-fest and this was perfect. Lauren Cusack is the stereotypical well-to-do American abroad, studying for a Masters in art at Wyndham College, Oxford. However, studying isn't all she is doing in Oxford- Lauren is charmed by Alexander Hunt, the future Marquess of Falconbury, and he proves to be a major distraction... To be honest, I can't blame her for falling for his charms. He's all enigma and testosterone, completely masculine. Yum. There is so much sexual tension in this book. Pippa Croft captures the overwhelming physical attraction between Lauren and Alexander and my kindle was steaming up when the inevitable finally happened. It was hot. REALLY hot.
However, The First Time We Met is not just out and out smut (not that there is anything wrong with that, I just like a bit of story with my sex scenes). The rest of the Oxford set, Lauren's best friend Immy, arrogant posh toffs Rupert, Gideon and Piers, bitchy Valentina and a pervy professor are interesting characters who add depth to the story. I also loved the university setting with the famous dreaming spires and Lauren's charming attic bedroom. When we are later thrown into life at Falconbury, old money and prestige reign. It is a competitive world, full of male bravado and opinionated women waiting to made snide remarks. If you can imagine Made in Chelsea in a novel, you won't be far off The First Time We Met. Sex, drama, elitism, but above all else, completely addictive. I loved it and moved straight onto the second book in the series, something I rarely do!
It's fair to say Lauren and Alexander had me begging for more...
The First Time We Met is out now, published by Penguin.
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