Alice Bello

Hope Entangles picks where Hope Breaks left off. Those of us hoping for a Jake and Hope reconciliation, well...we have to wait some more. Hope Entangles isn't about them getting back together, but rather what Hope does get over what she did to Jake. Now if you haven't read Hope Breaks stop reading this review NOW, read it then proceed.

Like Hope Breaks, Hope Entangles is told via Hope's point of view, but we also get Jake's. I always enjoy getting to see Hope's world, but the real treat was getting to know Jake! Bello left some unanswered questions in the first novella especially with regards to how Jake knew Hope in high school. That question is answered and I'm glad she gave us his perspective alongside Hope's. Also, I had questions as to why Hope was cautious about dating. That too gets addressed and it's a heartbreaking tale. I'm glad Bello explained it, but equally happy she didn't linger too much on it and make the entire storyline about it. Although, I'm sure it will be readdressed in the final installment as it all comes together.

Character development is strong, but Hope Entangles is one of those novellas where you do have to read the first in order to continue. I loved learning more about Hope's crazy, nosy neighbor Bette. Even better? The inclusion of Jake's mother and sister, who in the past made Hope's life a living nightmare. The real treat is Hope's newest neighbor and the ever so sexy, Raphael. Hope begins to have erotic dreams about him and while purists will say she shouldn't because of Jake, I remind you theirs was a very short relationship. A few characters from Hope Breaks make an appearance and I suspect we'll get a few new ones in Hope Rises. I'm particularly dying for Jake to come face to face his with ex-wife who was once a friend of Hope's.

There are a few errors, but nothing that impedes one's enjoyment. I laughed and really enjoyed Hope Entangles. We're left with a cliffhanger, but nothing as major as Hope Breaks. Bello will have you questioning which team you're on: Jake's or Raphael's. If by chance Hope decides on Raphael, then I have a message for Jake: call me!

If you're a fan of funny contemporary romances then I highly recommend Alice Bello's Hope Entangles. Be prepared for laughs and I can't wait for Hope Rises!… (lisätietoja)

Hope Jones wishes she could start the day over again. Not only has her car broken down, but her job is in jeopardy. As a photographer of romance novel covers, she loves her job and she’s one of the best in the business. When the publisher she works with orders new book cover mock-ups because the bestselling author they want to retain has threated to sign elsewhere, Hope realizes she needs to take new photographs, but she’s under a time constraint. Heading into the local Wal-Mart for painkillers, she comes across a few men who are model potential, but it’s the mechanic at a local repair shop that steals her breath. Jake is attracted to Hope on sight and he sets out to woo her. There’s one slight problem, Hope isn’t sure about her feelings and she’s too focused on her job. Will Hope take a chance on Jake and save her job?

I loved Hope Breaks! Alice Bello has done a great job with this engaging and witty novella. Narration is first person perspective told through Hope. First person narration can be tricky because you miss the thoughts of the other characters including their actions. In this case, Bello does an excellent job detailing exactly what is going on around Hope that you don’t miss not knowing what Jake is thinking, doing, etc. She’s pretty detailed about it. I won’t go into detail, but there’s a heart wrenching scene at the end and the way Bello describes it, you can pretty much imagine you’re in the room and Jake’s body language is pretty apparent. We get that all through Hope’s eyes. Some reviewers have commented on the ending, but I think it’s perfect because it opens up knowing more about Hope in the second installment and it’s no different from other books ending on a cliffhanger.

Character development is strong and I feel we get to know Hope and Jake equally despite it being told in first person narrative. Hope has closed herself off from dating and she’s cautious. We aren’t told exactly why nor do we know all of her past history, but this is part one in a trilogy and therefore it makes sense that we get to know Hope as the story progresses. As for Jake, he’s very open and even admits to knowing Hope in high school, but she doesn’t remember him. They know several people in common and it will be interesting to see if any of them make a future appearance. We have several secondary characters, but one stands out. Bette is Hope’s neighbor and she’s nosy so you’ll be thanking your lucky stars she isn’t your neighbor!

I have several favorite scenes but the ones that stand out the most are Hope’s trip to Wal-Mart and the time Jake and Hope spend together. You’ll be laughing and enjoying every minute of it. It was great to see Hope open herself up to the possibility of love and Jake is just swoon worthy.

My favorite quote:
“Wal-Mart really did have everything: Tylenol, hot young studs, and even mechanics to change your starter.”

Hope Breaks is a wonderful read! If you’re looking for a funny contemporary romance with a mouth watering hero, then this is your must summer read. I do have to warn you, you won’t look at Wal-Mart or hear a Jimmy Buffett song the same way after reading this. I can’t wait to read the rest of the series.… (lisätietoja)