| Title | : | Bad Girls Dont Marry Marines (Rock Canyon, Idaho, #3) |
| Author | : | |
| Rating | : | |
| ISBN | : | 0062331744 |
| ISBN-10 | : | 9780062331748 |
| Format Type | : | Paperback |
| Number of Pages | : | 336 |
| Publication | : | First published May 20, 2014 |
Valerie Willis has done it all: tattoos, one-night stands, even strip poker. And now she can add getting a messy public divorce to that list. Back in her hometown of Rock Canyon, Val just wants to bury her head and wait for the scandal to pass. But when she suddenly finds herself at a singles' weekend face-to-face with former flame Justin Silverton, hiding from her heart—and the sexy Marine—won't be that simple.
Is just too good to let go …
It's been ten years since Justin kissed Val, but he still remembers the way they just seemed to … fit. Since then he's served his country and helped his father keep their ranch intact, but he's never forgotten Val or her wild ways. So when a twist of fate brings him the chance to chase her across state lines and spend a weekend winning her heart, Justin's all in. Because when he sees something he wants, he fights for it. And he's ready to fight for the right to call this bad girl his one and only.
Bad Girls Dont Marry Marines (Rock Canyon, Idaho, #3) Reviews
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This book had me at hello. Er...at the title. I'm a known sucker for military romances so seeing Marine in the title, I was totally there.
This book wasn't the least bit disappointing. I couldn't put it down. And for the first time in forever, during a buddy read with Nikki, I actually beat her to the end of a book!
Justin was such a good guy. I wouldn't mind having a Justin of my own...minus the farming part. I'm too much of a city girl to be able to survive on a farm.
Val was a firecracker! She was brash and honest and spoke her mind. Come to think of it, she reminded me of one of my best friends.
I have to say that I absolutely hated Val's dad. There was nothing redeeming about him. He'll go down in history as one of the most hated characters for me.
I'll admit that the one thing I wasn't looking forward to in this book was the single's weekend. But that ended up being such a small part (time wise) of the story and it was beyond enjoyable. I actually wish that there was more time spent there just because it was fun reading.
I sincerely hope that Val's sisters get books because I want to see them get a HEA too. -
What’s this? I read the third book in a series first? That’s right, I rebelled against my OCD. Believe me, there was much anxiety involved. I received the fourth book for review, and was going to start with it until I discovered the main character’s sister is the MC of this book. Therefore I had to at least start with Bad Girls Don’t Marry Marines.
Five reasons I liked it:
- I do love the bad girls! I was expecting Valerie to be a wild one, but turns out her bad girl days are behind her. Oh, but the reputation has stuck. She’s 26 and more mature now after a messy high-profile divorce, but she can still be a handful. She can still be a spitfire, which I really liked.
- Justin is a hottie ex-Marine working on the family farm. Let’s take a moment with the vision of him all hot a sweaty out on a tractor … ahem, anyway. He’s a nice guy and a total gentlemen. While he did feel a bit smothering at times, he did push and help her get that rebellious spark back.
- I enjoy a good second chance romance. The first time around, they had one night of fun when they were teens, but they had an amazing connection. Ten years later, that attraction is still there, but there are forces working against them. One of those forces being her douchebag dad. Their journey was both fun and frustrating, with some big bumps along the way.
- I adore all the sisterly love! Val has two sisters who are considered “bad girls” too, and are often referred to as “those Willis sisters”. I love how they are there for each other, and can’t wait to see more of them in the next book.
- Gus, Val’s bulldog. Seriously, how could someone not love him?
Bad Girls Don’t Marry Marines was a pretty quick, enjoyable read. I’m looking forward to reading the rest of the series. -
Lindsay: To start out this review, I have to say that I loved this book!
Nikki: I was a little skeptical at first but it totally won me over!
Lindsay: LOL. Did you have a book hangover from Stolen Course?
Nikki: *blushing* You caught me.
Lindsay: I have to say that I loved Val. She cracked me up. And she spoke her mind, no matter if it ticked people off.
Nikki: Oh yes! She was awesome! I loved how bold and in-your-face she was. Strong female leads are always a selling point for me. I think its my inner feminist ;)I really loved how she stood up to her dad and refused to tow his line after all the crap he dished out to her and her sisters!
Lindsay: I completely agree. I loved her sisters. I hope they get their own books. And speaking of her dad....I know it was a joke about me plotting a torture list but I'm seriously starting to think we need a list of things we wish on horrible evil characters!
Nikki: I can't argue with you here. He was awful! I can't even imagine treating your own kids the way he did! But, on the positive side, this just goes to show what kind of talent Codi Gary has, that she could write such a loathsome character and make me/us hate him so profusely!
Lindsay:
That's very true. She's extremely talented. Especially in her creation of Justin. ♥♥♥
Nikki:
I know right! He was so swoon worthy! I loved him! ♥♥♥ The perfect mix of hot cowboy, gentleman, and naughty boy all rolled in one!
Lindsay: LOL. Well, being an extreme city girl, I can do without the cowboy/farm boy part but it worked on him. It doesn't hurt that he's a Marine. ;)
Nikki: Lol. This is true! I just love a man in uniform! ;)
Lindsay: Unfortunately, we didn't get to actually see him in his uniform.
Nikki: No, but I have a good imagination! ;) Speaking of uniforms, I really liked Justin's brother, Everett too. His story would also be appreciated! :D (hint hint)
Lindsay: I agree. I'd love to see a book for Justin's brother. Maybe even with one of Val's sisters...
Nikki: Oh yes! Caroline! :D I really liked all the characters in this book! Well, except for that douche bag dad...I think this author really has talent and even though this is my first book by her, I will definitely be looking into more!
Lindsay: I agree, I'm looking forward to reading other books by her. I have to say that I was worried about the Single's weekend. I was afraid I wouldn't like that part of the book, but I loved it.
Nikki: I know! It was a little out there for me too, but Dorothy was a hoot and I loved the trivia game and how competitive Val and Justin were!
Lindsay: Exactly! Dorothy cracked me up and I loved seeing how great Val and Justin were together when Val was still fighting against getting together with him.
Nikki: So in short, this was a funny, sexy and sweet read! I really enjoyed it!
Lindsay: And it's definitely a must read for anyone like loves great heroes that know what they want and go after it!
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Awesome read!! Loved this second chance story as Justin and Valerie are reunited. Luckily Valerie isn't that young girl her Daddy can control anymore but will she give Justin a chance even though he doesn't have the same background and pedigree as her family??? It'll take a little work on his part but he thinks Valerie is well worth it. This is a fun read and one I would recommend to everyone.
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I was kinda impressed with this book! I loved Val, how she started out complacent, then took control of her life back. Her sisters were each impressive in their own way, but the way they all wound up standing up to their father was equally impressive. Justin was a bit to wishy washy for my tastes, but he did man up in the end and fight for his happiness. I even liked his father and brother! I wish there was a bit more closure on the situation with Valerie's dad, but perhaps that is in future books. All things considered, an entertaining story for a quiet evening!
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Bad Girls Don't Marry Marines is a delightful story about rediscovering lost love.
Valerie Willis is recovering from a very public divorce in a hometown that would rather think the worst of her before giving her a chance. Valerie is constantly being manipulated by her father and his political ambitions.
Justin Silverton is a marine that has returned home to help save his father's farm. Being reunited with Val is chance he can't pass up. When they end up on a singles weekend together, the chemistry from so long ago reunites.
The couple have a lot going against them. Mainly, a feud of sorts between their fathers.
I really loved Valerie's take no crap attitude with everyone but her father. There does come a point when you recognize a toxic relationship are just that, toxic...even if it is your only surviving parent. Valerie's father is a piece of work. He is utterly ruthless and heinous in his conniving.
Bad Girls Don't Marry Marines is an emotionally charged story that makes you feel passionately toward the outcome of the conclusion. It made me want to rally around the Willis sisters. For Codi Gary to pull me in and emotionally invest me in the story, I must give Bad Girls Don't Marry Marines 4 stars.
I received this ARC copy of Bad Girl's Don't Marry Marines from Avon Impulse in exchange for a honest review. This book is set for publication May 20, 2014.
Written by: Codi Gary
Series: Rock Canyon Romance
Sequence in Series: 3
ISBN-13: 9780062331731
Publisher: HarperCollins Publishers
Publication date: 5/20/2014
eBookPages: 300
Rating: 4 Stars
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Find this book on:
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Bad Girls Don't Marry Marines is the third book out in the Rock Canyon Series by Codi Gary. I love this fun sexy series and can never get enough of their antics. Codi Gary writes a story that is both emotional and fun all at the same time. I deeply felt for Valerie and could easily identify with the troubles she was going through and why it was so hard for her to let love in.
It's not easy being known as one of "Those Willis Girls." When your dad is a prominent citizen and well respected and you and your sisters act like normal fun loving young women it's easy to get an undeserved reputation. Add a public divorced toppled with lies and a town gossip all to happy to spread them and you will have a very unhappy and untrusting woman. This is the situation that Valerie finds herself in at the young age of 26. After trying to live to make her father happy she is finally gonna live to make herself happy.
Justin is the man that Valerie spent one (innocent) night with in her teen years that she could feel an instant pull towards him. He was in town on leave from the Marines and when they met sparks just fly. So what's the problem . . .his dad is not only a drunk but the enemy of Valerie's father and when her dad found out about their one night he shipped Valerie off and she never saw Justin again.
Years later fate has brought them both back to Rock Canyon and when he knows the spark they once felt is still there Justin is not giving up so easily this time even if Valerie is swearing off love and relationships. Can these two get past all the baggage their fathers have installed in their life to give that true once in a lifetime kind of love a chance?
I had so much fun reading this book. Although the issues in the book were heartbreaking and emotional, the characters were so much fun and so well written I couldn't put it down. I have never read a book by Codi I didn't love but I think this one might be my absolute favorite so far. The story was great, the characters well developed and the sex was HOT! Codi Gary's Rock Canyon series is definitely one I would recommend to anyone (although this can easily be read as a standalone too.)
~miranda -
Omg! I just finished and I'm still smiling! I truly loved Justin and Val!! Codi, girl you done it again and created the perfect man. Who doesn't want to fall in love, and with someone who secretly stole your heart we he sole a kiss when your were kids?! Sigh The story is sweet with enough heat to keep you happy! I just have to say I HATE HER DAD! lol Vals sisters are ready for a story of their own! Loved it!
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Copy received from: TastyBookTours for an honest review
What a great story! This is my first time reading Codi Gary, but definitely not my last! The writing was fantastic! I loved the storyline and I loved the hero and heroine! This was not a cut and paste kind-of-story. This was about real people looking for love. I really enjoyed it and look forward to reading more books by Codi Gary! -
I skimmed most of this. The romance just didn't get me interested. Sorry.
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Justin and Valerie are so f'ing cute! I was laughing and sighing through all their ridiculousness :) Loved it can't wait for more from Codi.
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**5 Stars** Full review and rating will be up on Boundless Book Reviews
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Bad Girls Don’t Marry Marines is one of the best small town military romance I read in awhile. Valerie is good girl with a bad girl reputation. She has colorful past that town people doesn’t allow her forget. She also is trying to get struggling to get free of her father who control her and her sisters because of his political career.
Justin is marine who is back working on the family farm. During a chance meeting at the store that eventually leads them to their reunion. I love how Codi Gary lets us go on the journey with Justin and Valerie as they discover their love for each other. And show us how Valerie and her sisters finally stands up to their father. This book has passion, tragic past, spicy, love and h.e.a.
Bad Girls Don’t Marry Marines has wonderful characters. Codi Gary did such great job writing the storyline. I would definitely recommend this book. I give this ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️. I will definitely read another book by Codi Gary. -
I had a love/hate relationship with Valerie Willis. Every time she showed some backbone I loved her, then she would rollover and let that manipulative bastard get his way then I would want to strangle her. I loved Ellie and want more info on Caroline
I loved Justin Silverton to pieces, and his family.He is a man who is not afraid to express his feelings and he goes after what he wants.
In the beginning I didn't understand what drew Justin to Valerie, but in the end it didn't matter because I believed that he loved her and would do anything in his power to make her happy.
Can I have a Justin please?
I have not read the first two books in this series, and I don't think I missed much. I am hoping for more from Ellie, Caroline, and Everett (Justin's bother). -
Loved this story of a bad girl and the good guy she falls for even though she doesn't really believe in forever anymore. I was rooting for her to come to the conclusion that her Marine was the real deal and perfectly capable of giving her the happily-ever-after every woman wants. Great book. Can't wait to read more by this author.
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This was a great read! I loved Val’s spunkiness and Justin was swoon worthy. Their love story was sweet and just what I enjoy reading. Bedroom scenes are not overly graphic and actually add to the story in my opinion.
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Valerie Willis is one of three of those "Willis Girls." Living the life of a politician's daughter isn't always the easiest. Edward Willis expected his daughters to act a certain way to maintain his image of a man with strong family values. Caroline, Valerie and Ellie had plans of their own. Daddy Willis wasn't always so keen of those ideas.
Justin Silverton is a son of Fred Silverton of Silverton Farms. Justin, a Marine, fell hard for Val the first time when he was home on leave. He kissed her before he introduced himself. He ran into her again years later while she was trying to reach a bottle of wine on the top shelf at the grocery store. The spark that was instant all those years ago was still there. Avoided, but present.
"You know what thing. This kissing thing you do that catches me off guard. It was okay when I was sixteen, but I am not interested in dating anyone. Period. No matter how many times you kiss me or try to use that aw-shucks-I'm-just-a-nice-farm-boy charm on me, it isn't going to change."
Val is living back in Rock Canyon while being an animal groomer; Not Daddy Willis' idea of an ideal daughter. While trying to move up the political ladder, he continues to control and mold his daughters. Trying to make Val's divorce a thing of the past he sets his daughter up to head to a singles mixer with threats of cutting off her younger sister, Ellie. Reluctantly, she goes. No desire to date, let alone remarry.
"Close relationships never work out and almost always left you with invisible scars that never healed."
"The air around them crackled, and she licked her lips, watching his eyes darken to the color of Jack Daniels."
Justin heads to True Love with one thing in mind: Valerie Willis. Someone else may have gotten his Brad Paisley tickets, but nobody is going to get his second chance at love with the snarky, ornery middle Willis.
"I don't know. I've hear orneriness is better than taking a vitamin a day."
"That's a little stalkerish, don't you think?"
Codi Gary writes these emotions between characters that tugs at every heart string I have. Justin and Val's story isn't any different in that department. Now, the level in which she tugs at those are chart breaking. Very Romeo and Juliet. Feuding families and young love. This story works so well because it hits every emotion we have. And with every turn of the page, you are left begging for more!
"And just like that, he leaned over her, his eyes like warm honey. 'Because when I have my way with you, you'll be awake, you'll be well, and you'll be begging me for it.'"
On a personal level, I think these two hold a special place in my heart because they remind me so much of my husband and I. Down to earth, with no better night than dinner and a movie on the couch. And trivia! We love... no ADORE trivia. (And Jensen Ackles! What made me giggle is I love his beauty and my Mister loves Supernatural!)
"I actually have to explain Jensen Ackles to you? The man is pure male perfection."
Pure Male Perfection Here!!!
As I have learned with Codi's previous books, the supporting cast is more than that! They are stars of their own. Ellie is one of my favorites, although I have my guesses that she might have a "Know It All" complex! Ms. Andrews rears her Holier than Thou self through this story, not without some sass from this Willis. And the cast from True Love. Perfect! I have said this before, and I am more than sure I will say it again: I want to live in Rock Canyon!
And for the QUOTES! Codi is the queen of quote-worthy books! Here are a few of my favorites! (I'll tell you a secret, most of the book was highlighted as a quote...)
"Oh sweetheart, no. Love is about give and take and making compromises because the other person's happiness means more than your own."
"In my humble opinion, you should always apologize shirtless."
"To understand a woman is like a one-legged man trying to kick his own ass."
"Under the circumstances, I think I'm being damn charming."
"When actually you were threatening me with cutlery. Who says romance is dead?"
"Yeah, why not, I'm already shacking up with you. Might as well marry you and make you a tad bit respectable."
The road to this HEA is one worth traveling! Kick your feet up and enjoy this ride! I know I did! And be prepared, this one story has quite a few layers to peel back to get to your HEA. I love it!!! FIVE STARS FROM ME for Codi Gary! I have a headline for Ms. Know It All's gossip article: "FARM BOY FINALLY GETS HIS BRAD PAISLEY TICKETS & MORE!" -
I was drawn into this story from the beginning. It was a fun read that brings a person through all the phases of a relationship. i love the chemistry between the main characters, the author really was able to convey a relationship that is so genuine, and i was able to connect with their love story. I am very new to this author, and I must say, I enjoy reading her romance stories. I'm looking forward to the next book in this series.
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Bad Girls Don't Marry Marines (Rock Canyon Romance, #3) by Codi Gary
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Rate: 3,5 stars
Review:
This book is one of those romances about second chances and rediscovering a teenage love that you thought it was lost.
In this Rock Canyon story, we meet Valerie Willis, one of those Willis girls, meaning trouble. She's done it all: tattoos, one-night stands... So she's known as a bad girl, following the example of her older sister and the little one, too.
But that was before. Now back at Rock Canyon and being free of a marriage of convenience (her father's convenience), she wants to stop being the top trending topic of town and lay low. But when she finds face to face with the one boy who might have steal her hear back when she was a teen, things can get pretty... gossipy.
Justin Silverton, sexy Marine and the boy Val fall for when she was a teenage girl, thought he had a special thing going on with Valerie, until she left Rock Canyon. Now that she's back, he might be willing to show her how well they fit together. Even if that means going to a singles' weekend trip.
However, their relationship might not happen, not only because of their past, but the family feud that seems to haunt both families.
I knew from the very first page I'd connect with the characters. Codi Gary writes her characters perfectly, giving them problems, emotions and personalities that reach the reader on full force. You find yourself wanting to know how the story ends, loving the main characters and hating the "bad guys" (aka Valerie's father, for example. What a je*k).
What I liked about this third book in the Rock Canyon series is that Valerie's described as one of those wild girls that wants to change for a while. She's had some problems and a douchebag ex-husband. So end up feeling for her, trying to make things right and also trying to change her's sisters behavior so she is not part of "one of those Willis girls" disdain. And Justin... Well, he's the perfect book boyfriend. I'm completely speechless when I try to think of something to say about him. He makes the reading pretty interesting, if you know what I mean.
One character I hated a lot was Valerie's father (not a surprise here, right?). He's ruthless, a horrendous father who only seems to care about his status and probably some kind of twisted misogynist. I wanted to scream to my poor iPad's screen every time he was in a chapter. It was beyond infuriating.
As for the plot, is something completely different from the other Rock Canyon's books. If I'm not wrong, the only thing that the novels have in common is the town and that, kind of out of the blue, some of the characters in the other books are mentioned in this story. For my taste, the mention of Gemma Carlson from book two, felt kind of random. Despite this little nuance, the plot was perfectly written: fluid and not repetitive.
I had a great time reading Bad Girls Don't Marry Marines and I am definitely waiting for more Rock Canyon's books. I don't know what this place has, but it does have some pretty hot, sexy, cute and sweet romances worth reading them.
My Dream Cast:
Marie Avgeropoulos as Valerie
Jensen Ackles as Justin -
Originally posted on Adria’s Romance Reviews.
Poor Valerie Willis has only known one kind of life: the kind where her father manipulates and she rebels, only to capitulate in a desperate attempt to gain his approval. Now, years later she’s gone through a very public and messy divorce from the man her father picked for her, Valerie is determined to live her life on her terms and to hell with what her father thinks or says. If only she didn’t have to be back in her hometown to do it.
Enter Justin Silverton, former Marine and someone from Val’s rebellious past. Ten years have passed since he’s seen Val but he never forgot her. A twist of fate and he now has the chance to reconnect with Val but it’s not long before he wants something permanent and now he has to chase, catch and convince Val that he’s worth the effort and the fight there’s bound to be when Val’s father finds out she’s taken up with the son of a man he can’t stand.
Talk about a dysfunctional family! The Willis clan consists of Edward Willis, a controlling, manipulative and cold hearted lawyer, former mayor and the father of three daughters: Valerie and her two sisters Ellie and Caroline. Each daughter carries the emotional and mental scars of growing up with such a man but Bad Girls Don’t Marry Marines is Valerie’s story and she has a lot going on.
Honestly, I was surprised that Val wasn’t more damaged than she actually was, however I think that maybe she might have been the luckiest of the three daughters. Even though she’s had a difficult family life, she’s still a fun, loving, passionate and tough woman. I liked her and I definitely understood where she was coming from. I didn’t see her actions or her fears as unreasonable or even silly, she was acting out her frustration with her life and what she saw as her inability to cope or even escape it. Val was the perfect example of someone who came from money, power and influence and yet was beyond miserable and was treated as little more than a caged bird, only brought out to perform for audiences.
Justin is the complete opposite of Val. He and his family didn’t have much and his father is an alcoholic but there is a lot of love and friendship between Justin, his brother Everett and their father Fred. I loved their dynamic as a unit. Each man has their own demons to battle but they still make time to joke around and be supportive of one another.
As much drama as there could have been in this book with such a dominating (in a bad way) character like Edward, I was surprised that Bad Girls Don’t Marry Marines paid a lot of attention to the relationship between Justin and Valerie and I loved that about this book. So much time was spent on them getting reacquainted with each other and the sexual tension that enveloped them every time they were together that I truly felt that they had come full circle by the end of the book. I loved how there was no quick, clean getaway from Edward’s clutches for Valerie because when someone has been abused like Val, it’s never easy to just “get away” from that person, especially when it’s a parent.
Author Codi Gary brought a lot of emotions to the table through character interactions. They were diverse, interesting and sometimes intense but that’s what kept me reading from start to finish.
Final Verdict: I loved Bad Girls Don't Marry Marines. The characters were fun, dramatic and passionate and I hope that Caroline and Ellie get their own stories soon. -
Codi just keeps getting better!
At the beginning of William Shakespeare’s ROMEO AND JULIET, we are told:
Two households, both alike in dignity…
Where civil blood makes civil hands unclean.
From forth the fatal loins of these two foes
A pair of star-cross'd lovers take their life;
Well, thankfully in BAD GIRLS DON’T MARRY MARINES by Codi Gary, our star-crossed lovers don’t kill themselves but this romance is every bit as angst-driven and tenuous as the love affair of Romeo and Juliet minus the sword fights and deaths. Valerie Willis has an overbearing father who like Juliet’s feels the need to rule her world, her life, and her love life. He chose Val’s ex-husband for her and that was a huge disaster yet the man feels he should choose her next one as well. When she was a teen, he discovered her dating the son of his enemy and sent her away to keep them apart and now that she’s back in town, he’s trying to do it again. This time Val is wiser and thankfully, tougher. She decides she’ll see whom she wishes, when she wishes, and only under blackmail does she give in – but only a little bit.
Justin Silverton’s never forgotten Val Willis and the summer nights that left his heart attached to hers and he never understood why she just disappeared from town without even so much as a ‘get lost’. But now, she’s back and looking better than ever. He doesn’t believe all that ‘bad girl’ talk that follows her and when he discovers she’s going to a dating weekend in True Love, Nevada, he decides to go too, and win her over. What he discovers is that both are caught in a battle between their fathers and even though he’s willing to stand strong, Val isn’t and he’s determined to find out why and to break the hold her father has on her.
BAD GIRLS DON’T MARRY MARINES, book three in the Rock Canyon Romance series by Codi Gary is all about falling in love, pursuing what you want, and not letting anyone deter you once you know exactly what you want. Both Justin and Val are caught by the determination of an interfering parent but they don’t let him stomp down their passion, determination, or love for each other and their families. Codi throws in plenty of tension between Edward Willis and his three daughters reminiscent of King Lear to round out the nearly forbidden Romeo and Juliet-esque romance. As always, Codi’s secondary characters round out the cast making it feel like home. This time it’s the wild and crazy little sister, Ellie, and the charming, want-to-know-him-better Everett, brother to Justin. Codi just keeps getting better and her characters continue to pull you deeper into this series. Besides, who really can resist a Joe Manganiello-type hero, right?
I highly recommend the truly romance driven contemporary romance, BAD GIRLS DON’T MARRY MARINES by Codi Gary, to anyone who loves a love story with meddling parents, matchmakers, some nasty folks thrown in, and sisters and brothers who are pain in the butts just enough to make them lovable. Justin and Val are perfect for each other – so perfect that everyone’s pulling for them, even Gus the bulldog.
***eARC provided by publisher via Edelweiss in exchange for an honest and unscripted review. -
Valerie Willis is a woman of determination. She has determined that after a failed marriage that both her social and personal life were over. She was content on being a successful business owner of her pet grooming shop and being a hermit in her home. Who would want her anyways after the lies her ex husband had spread about her and the fact that she has fertility issues? In the small town of Rock Canyon people thrive on scandals and gossip anyway.
Enter in Ex Marine Justin Silverton. He has a past with Valerie Willis and now that they are both adults he plans on exploring his feelings towards Valerie. She wants no part of him or of anyone else.
Enter in Valerie's Father into this picture and you begin to see why Valerie might be the way she is. Control over a person can damage more then the mind; it most certainly can damage the heart.
OK down to my business. I started this book with a reluctance because I have read all of the Author's other books that feature Rock Canyon, Idaho. I fell in LOVE with all of the characters in the other 2.5 books. The challenge was on for me to read this book with an open objective and not let my feelings of loving the other characters in Codi's other books get in my way to cloud my judgement about Valerie and Justin.
Without spoiling ANY more of this book; I can honestly say that once again Author Codi Gary has blown me away with the depth and details with her Rock Canyon, Idaho residents. She took on addressing serious issues in her fictional characters that an everyday person wouldn't want to have to confront. The biggest one to me was dealing with family. Hatred, forgiveness, love, and patience are all words to describe Val and Justin's families. Codi drew a clear picture of what Valerie had to deal with while dealing with her own emotional turmoil and Justin is not the typical Alpha male. Justin posses qualities that make him a man with passion, compassion, and real emotions.
This is a very compelling 5 star read for me. It was difficult for me to read at first because my serious disdain of Ellie, a supporting character and Val's younger Sister, but when I realized that having this serious disdain toward the reckless Ellie was actually a good feeling to have; I was able to understand Valerie's family life a lot better. Side note * disliking a character as much as I did Ellie in the beginning is a sure way to see that Codi doesn't leave out details and emotions.* It even turns out that I have a change of heart towards my feelings for Ellie in the end.
In conclusion; if you want to read a book that has no depth, quick sex, and no real emotion than please skip right along and pass this book up! This book takes it's reader through a very personal journey with family, love, and raw emotion on the line. If you believe that a heart of a woman that has been scorned can find love again then this is a MUST READ Book! I know my heart was touched by Codi Gary's dedication to her characters!
Bravo Codi Gary! Bravo! -
Overall Rating: 4 Rockin’ ★★★★
Bad Girls Don't Marry Marines is such an awesome story. Cody Gary brought to life two very different, yet very compatible characters into the throws of a passionate, combustible romance that will sweep you off your feet. Set in a small town in the midwest, both characters have been through many twists and turns themselves before their moment comes to light. A tale of betrayal, family, and most of all true love weaves its way into your heart for a great storyline.
Justin Silverton, an ex-marine now farmer on his family's farm, has spent the last 12 years wondering about the one girl who got away. The one girl he connected with for just a night, yet in the end, lost her even before it began; thanks to the hatred of her very controlling father. Justin is funny, passionate and loyal to those he cares about. He's wiling to put his heart on the line just to have the one woman he's longing for...Valerie.
Valerie Willis, is a misunderstood woman whose father is a politician and is ever so controlling of every detail in her and her sister's lives. Having been recently married and divorced, Val moves back to her home town and starts a new life there. She had always followed her father's wishes or orders. Marrying who he wanted, doing whatever he told her to do...but now a grown woman, she has her own idea of how she wants to live her life. However, when she runs across Justin- her unceasingly attentive white knight- in the grocery store, feelings begin to stir inside her that she thought were buried and gone. Feelings she soon found out that she couldn't reject and her father wouldn't accept!
I was captivated from the very beginning and throughout the whole book. I didn't want to put it down until I was done. This story will do that to you. This author never ceases to amaze me with her beautiful stories of love and romance, along with filtering twists and turns. Will love conquer all? Can two people love each other in such dire circumstances? Will Valerie break loose from her father's controlling grip and finally be happy with the one man who can love her unconditionally? Read the book to find out, I promise you won't be disappointed! Excellent job, Codi Gray! You ROCK... Grēta
Hero - Justin Silverton 4.5 stars
Heroine - Valerie Willis 4.0 stars
Steam Level: 4.0 stars
Plot: 4.0 stars
Cliffhanger: No
Would I recommend this book: Yes!
Would I read other books by this author: Yes!
***Received an ARC of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review***
Bad Girls Don't Marry Marines
Codi Gary -
Valerie Willis is not an easy woman to love, but Ex Marine Justin Singleton is up for a challenge.
Vallerie Willis is a woman of determination. She has determined that after a failed marriage that her social and personal life was over. She was content on being a successful business owner and being alone in her own house. Who would want her anyways after the lies her ex husband had spread about her? In the small town of Rock Canyon people thrive on scandals and gossip anyway.
Enter in Ex Marine Justin Silverton. He has a past with Valerie Willis and now that they are both adults he plans on exploring his feelings with Valerie. She wants no part of him or of anyone else in town.
Enter in Valerie's Father into this picture and you begin to see why Valerie might be the way she is. Control over a person can damage more then the mind it most certainly can damage the heart.
OK down to my business. I started this book with a reluctance because I have read all of the Author's other books that feature Rock Canyon, Idaho. I fell in LOVE with all of the characters in the other 2.5 books. The challenge was on for me to read this book with an open objective and not let my feelings of loving the other characters get in my way to cloud my judgement about Valerie and Justin.
Without spoiling ANY more of this book I can honestly say that once again Author Codi Gary has me tied up in an on going love with Rock Canyon, Idaho. She has taken on addressing serious issues in her fictional characters that an everyday person wouldn't want to have to confront. The biggest one to me was dealing with family without the shedding of blood. Condi drew a clear picture of what Valerie had to deal with while dealing with her own emotional turmoil and Justin was not the typical Alpha male. Very sexy Alpha male, but with passion and compassion built-into who he is.
This is a very compelling 5 star read for me. It took me twice the time to read then it should have because of my disdain for a supporting character. After I realized that having this disdain towards a character was actually a good thing I continued to read the book at a normal rate of speed. It even turns out that I have a change of heart when it comes down to this character, Ellie.
In conclusion; if you want to read a book that has no depth and all quick sex than please skip right along and pass this book up! This book demands it's reader to be taken through a very personal process. That process is how to make you believe that a heart of a woman that has been scorned can find love again!
Bravo Codi Gary! Bravo! -
I was intrigued when I saw this cover - I mean, I wanted to know WHY Bad Girls Don't Marry Marines. :) This was a great, quick read that had me captured from the beginning. I instantly loved Val. Us short girls gotta stick together, you know? But other than her being vertically challenged, she was someone I would love to have in my small group of friends. She's loyal to her family, even when they in no way deserve it, and she doesn't let the cards that have been dealt her get her down but so much. If I was faced with some of the things she has I can't say I would be holding up as well as she.
And Justin was this pleasant package that I wanted to bring home with me. I loved how he knew what he wanted, Val, and he was determined to not let her get away again. Yes, I said again. They met ten years ago and had quite a memorable night. And considering that night didn't involve sex, they had to have had some chemistry zinging back and forth between them for them both cling to their memory of that night. And love that stuff. What kind of stuff do you ask? The instant pull between characters and the easy flow as if they have known each other for longer than that one night. Everything just clicks. But, in present day, everything isn't exactly clicking with Val and Justin. Things happened after that special night that separated them and ultimately set them on two completely different paths. They both had their baggage and I really enjoyed reading how each handled the situations. It was really refreshing.
Ms. Codi was able to give us a great story that, even though it's the third in the series, I was able to read as a standalone. You have no idea how much it will bother me when I'm reading a story and I've been told it can be read as a standalone, and come to find out it's got all these characters from previous books who are paired up and you know they have their own stories and you feel like you're missing out. Lol. I was happy to see that we briefly see previous characters but they aren't all over the place. I know, weird thing to like about a book right? Eh. It's important to me so I'm putting it here. I really like Val's sisters and I am hoping Justin's brother, Everett, gets his own book because I am a sucker for the wounded vet with visible scars and the person who falls for them can look beyond the surface. Gets me every time! Bad Girls Don't Marry Marines gets a solid four stars for making me instantly fall in love with the book. -
It is no big secret that I love Codi Gary. Not only is she just an awesome person, but her writing is fun, sexy, and leaves me wanting more. Every time I go back to Rock Canyon, it is like going home. Though I am probably the farthest thing from country, Codi makes me want to try.
In the third book in the Rock Canyon Series, we meet Val and her former crush Justin. To say that Val has baggage would be an understatement. Between her father, her ex-husband, and a town filled with disapproving people, she is only seen as one of THOSE Willis girls, but there is much more to her than what everyone thinks. The reader is able to really see the way her relationship with her father and her failed marriage affects every decision she makes about her life. She even has sworn off men…that is until Justin re-enters the picture. The former Marine is hell-bent on making Val see that they are meant to be together. He even goes as far as taking a weekend trip to True Love (a matchmaking weekend).
The smart-ass remarks and banter between the two are priceless. She may be 4 foot nothing, but Val is anything but small. There were a couple of times that I actually started laughing out loud while reading the book. Though the reader can see that these two are meant for each other, the characters certainly have a lot of ups and downs as we turn the pages in their story. Will Val get what she has denied herself for so long? Will Justin manage to convince the anti-relationship spokes person that they are meant to be together? And maybe there are reasons why bad girls don’t marry Marines…or maybe not.
This book has all the components that a reader looks for in a down home country romance. It has the smart and bold female lead that is not afraid to speak her mind. It has the strong sexy Marine that has his mind on one thing…getting the girl. And of course, it has that small town craziness that you know you love. In true Codi Gary style, she brings the characters to life. Whether it be a crazy sister who appears to just wants to party or an overbearing father who doesn’t seem to actually like his children or the quirky matchmaker that likes to grab a hot man’s butt, you will never be disappointed in the people you meet in one of Codi’s books.
Though the whole series is a must read for me, this book should be at the top of your list while we wait for The Return of the Bad Girl! -
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What I'm Reading
Yes, I wanted to read Codi Gary's Bad Girls Don't Marry Marines for the cover. I know that is the wrong reason to want to read a book, but I really love the tattoo art on heroines arm. Second it had Marines in the title. Come on you know Marines are hot. Anyway, those are main reason. Good thing I enjoyed the book too.
So, Bad Girls Don't Marry Marines is about one of the infamous Willis sisters. Yes, they are bad news in Rock Canyon. The story focuses on Valerie and I do hope her sisters get their own stories. However, that might not happen, back to Valerie. So, Val has been laying low after all she just got out of a marriage to man who was like her father. Let me just say her father is a scumbag politician. Yes, there are few of them out there that want to make the world a better place. Not him, he's out for himself and he will use any method he can even if calls for using his daughters as pawns in his political schemes. Serious I wanted to choked the guy. Enough about her father. Anyway, she needs to tow the line or risk having her younger sister lose everything. Basically, Val goes on this matchmaking retreat for her father, but ends up seeing Justin Silverton. So, Val needs to make a choice follow her fathers edict or her own.
I enjoyed Bad Girls Don't Marry Marines, because it was just a fun read. Yes, you have Val's father who plays an integral part in the story. Val is know as the bad girl, but it's more of an act of rebellion against her father's tight reins on her life. Poor Justin is kind of stuck in the middle of all this. Val's father has extreme hatred towards Justin and his family and you learn the reason as the story progress. I liked Justin, because he was willing to fight for what could be with Valerie. Some people might not like Valerie, because gives off these mix signal towards Justin. A lot of that has to deal with her insecurity, and fear what her ex-husband said was true.
Overall, I really did enjoyed the story. Justin won me over for a couple of reason. I felt bad for Valerie. I honestly, loved the sappy ending. Yes, the ending is sappy and I'm okay with it.
Copy provided by Avon via Edelweiss -
This book was one of those you don't want to put down. Ms. Gary was a recent find for me, having won her books in a giveaway. At first, honestly, I wasn't sure I was going to like them or even read them all. It appeared on the opening pages of Things Good Girls Don't Do that the heroine was weak, that she fell into the hero's arms at the drop of a hat, quickly abandoning all she'd been taught and believed in. Boy did the author prove me wrong. The further I delved into the story, I realized what I'd taken for weakness was simply the character's struggle to break out of her box, a box her mother and the town's people had put her in. In Good Girls Don't Marry Marines, it was Valerie' s father that had controlled her and her sisters all their lives to fulfill his own political ambitions. As a result, he'd alienated all three of his daughters. Even so he still managed to weave his influence into their lives. He's threatened to cut off Valerie' s younger sister unless Val goes to a matchmaker weekend in an attempt to repair her image. Never mind she's coming off a nasty divorce from a man her father deemed acceptable for her. The man destroyed her reputation by falsely accusing her of cheating on him. Oh, and there's the little issue of her feelings for Justin, someone her father considers beneath her, not to mention the fact he despises Justin's father for almost ruining him. When Justin turns up at the matchmaker weekend the two of them end up spending the time together and their feelings grow. However, they still have to deal with her meddling father, her rebellious younger sister, the town folk, and a couple of other problems I don't want to mention because it would spoil it for you. I loved these characters in spite of their flaws. Loved the romance between them and the fact that they fight for one another in the end. Love their families and hope to see more of them in the future. Just an all around entertaining read that left me sighing at the end.
