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Illusive Duet #1
Catfish
I was never supposed to meet her.
I wasn't supposed to have my best friend's phone either and see her message come through.
And I sure as hell shouldn't of went through his dating app and messaged her back.
Call it buzzed on too much brandy.
Call it loneliness or wanting to forget my life for a night but that's a lie.
I wanted her when I knew that my every move was watched, questioned, and critiqued—leaving no room for error.
Running for President of the United States doesn’t allow a man much privacy.
Yet, my dumbass apparently doesn’t read the whole memo of what that all entails because I hire her to work underneath my team anyway.
I torture myself and watch her in walk in the office with her clothes painted on and try to leave well enough alone.
She hates me as me, I can already tell, but little does she know that actually know each other. We talk almost every night. She knows things about me that not many do.
But when she pushes the real me to take a wild chance, I stay grounded with my tactful pride when I know better.
I really do.
This woman does not know what she’s getting herself into.
Apparently, I don’t either.
I’m about to fuck this woman up with my secrets.
And not in the way I want to fully either.
Turns out, even the President can’t control little things like bad timing and the past that comes rushing in at the right moment.
I wasn't supposed to have my best friend's phone either and see her message come through.
And I sure as hell shouldn't of went through his dating app and messaged her back.
Call it buzzed on too much brandy.
Call it loneliness or wanting to forget my life for a night but that's a lie.
I wanted her when I knew that my every move was watched, questioned, and critiqued—leaving no room for error.
Running for President of the United States doesn’t allow a man much privacy.
Yet, my dumbass apparently doesn’t read the whole memo of what that all entails because I hire her to work underneath my team anyway.
I torture myself and watch her in walk in the office with her clothes painted on and try to leave well enough alone.
She hates me as me, I can already tell, but little does she know that actually know each other. We talk almost every night. She knows things about me that not many do.
But when she pushes the real me to take a wild chance, I stay grounded with my tactful pride when I know better.
I really do.
This woman does not know what she’s getting herself into.
Apparently, I don’t either.
I’m about to fuck this woman up with my secrets.
And not in the way I want to fully either.
Turns out, even the President can’t control little things like bad timing and the past that comes rushing in at the right moment.
460 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 15, 2020
About the author
Hazel Grace
23 books488 followersHazel Grace is an avid music lover, an undefined human being, and hardcore Oakland Raiders fan from the mitten state of Michigan.
Always surprising her readers with weird Michigan sayings (they have their own cuss words) and writing "what the f*ck" storylines.
When she's not writing, she's on Spotify finding new bands, working on her Camaro or watching shows with her kids with annoying songs attached to them.
Check up on Hazel on the following platforms:
Facebook: www.facebook.com/hazelgraceauthor
Instagram: www.instagram.com/hazelgraceauthor
Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/hazel...
Newsletter: http://eepurl.com/dlYOgn
Always surprising her readers with weird Michigan sayings (they have their own cuss words) and writing "what the f*ck" storylines.
When she's not writing, she's on Spotify finding new bands, working on her Camaro or watching shows with her kids with annoying songs attached to them.
Check up on Hazel on the following platforms:
Facebook: www.facebook.com/hazelgraceauthor
Instagram: www.instagram.com/hazelgraceauthor
Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/hazel...
Newsletter: http://eepurl.com/dlYOgn
Ratings & Reviews
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Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 71 reviews
April 1, 2020
I enjoyed a lot this book but I thought too boring at the middle.
The chemistry between the characters and the dialogue are the best.
The chemistry between the characters and the dialogue are the best.
November 16, 2021
ENTHRALLING & SENSATIONAL!!!
I've never read Hazel Grace before and let me say WHAT A BOOK TO START WITH!!!
I freaking ADORE the fact that the first book I've read of Hazel's has this badass heroine, one of the most fierce and unapologetic heroines that I've ever read! Not just that, Reagan's soul is broken but still so good and kind. It's like the perfect mix of sweet & spice! She knows when to love and when to kick ass! To be honest, it was just her entire personality... it just made me love her even more! So many scenes between her and Wade gave me this intense high. I just never knew what was going to happen and there was this tension that just bled from the pages and had you on the edge of your seat! AND when they happened....OH MY GOVERNOR! It's still a bit hot in here!!! Wade was 100% broody and devoid of emotion in a way that sucks you in but leaves you cautious the entire time you're in his presence. I honestly just never knew what he was about to do. He was so determined & aggressive about what he wanted to accomplish and his refusal to let ANYTHING or ANYONE get in his way made him seem stone cold....but sweet & sassy Reagan showed a side to him that would have EVERY SINGLE FEMALE in the country wanting a piece of the Governor!
That cliffy though!! I'm not quite sure what just got fucked the most...my heart or my mind! I have to say...among all the theories running rampant in my mind throughout the entire book...not once did I THINK THAT!!!!
Just in case you aren't aware...this is a duet! So of course that means cliffy - and when I say grab a lifevest now...just listen and do it! You are going to need something!
Now to dive into Bona Fide and hopefully gain some of my soul back from Hazel Grace!
I've never read Hazel Grace before and let me say WHAT A BOOK TO START WITH!!!
I freaking ADORE the fact that the first book I've read of Hazel's has this badass heroine, one of the most fierce and unapologetic heroines that I've ever read! Not just that, Reagan's soul is broken but still so good and kind. It's like the perfect mix of sweet & spice! She knows when to love and when to kick ass! To be honest, it was just her entire personality... it just made me love her even more! So many scenes between her and Wade gave me this intense high. I just never knew what was going to happen and there was this tension that just bled from the pages and had you on the edge of your seat! AND when they happened....OH MY GOVERNOR! It's still a bit hot in here!!! Wade was 100% broody and devoid of emotion in a way that sucks you in but leaves you cautious the entire time you're in his presence. I honestly just never knew what he was about to do. He was so determined & aggressive about what he wanted to accomplish and his refusal to let ANYTHING or ANYONE get in his way made him seem stone cold....but sweet & sassy Reagan showed a side to him that would have EVERY SINGLE FEMALE in the country wanting a piece of the Governor!
That cliffy though!! I'm not quite sure what just got fucked the most...my heart or my mind! I have to say...among all the theories running rampant in my mind throughout the entire book...not once did I THINK THAT!!!!
Just in case you aren't aware...this is a duet! So of course that means cliffy - and when I say grab a lifevest now...just listen and do it! You are going to need something!
Now to dive into Bona Fide and hopefully gain some of my soul back from Hazel Grace!
May 13, 2020
I would definitely say "Catfish" had it's pros and cons, and I can honestly see why readers would be drawn to it. I just didn’t love it or hate it. The plot was interesting and refreshing, but it dragged out and I was hoping to see more development between ‘Chase’/Reagan/Wade. About ½ half through the novel, it felt more like a chore to read and I was kind of over it already. There wasn’t a whole lot going on for about 70% through yet the banter between the leads were my favorite scenes that pulled me through to the end, but like I said, it was a drag. Nevertheless there is potential and I look forward to the sequel to see how it pars with this one.
May 19, 2020
How does Hazel Grace do it? I swear she was an alpha hole man in her previous life. She writes Wades POV so real I feel like we are getting a glimpse into the male psyche. An alpha hole you love to hate. And if she couldn’t top that she also gives the reader a witty, And feisty heroine who is also complex.
I haven’t read anything similar to this story intriguing story.
Unique and refreshing with intelligent and funny banter.
Politics, secrets, slow burn, angst and great side characters
Cliffhanger, Contemporary romance, enemies, strangers, political power.
I haven’t read anything similar to this story intriguing story.
Unique and refreshing with intelligent and funny banter.
Politics, secrets, slow burn, angst and great side characters
Cliffhanger, Contemporary romance, enemies, strangers, political power.
March 23, 2020
4.5
Prepare to get sucked into this world of politics filled with deceitful, shady people.
Wade Lockwood is ambitious and has his eyes set on one thing and will do whatever he needs to in order to get there.
Reagan is a party planner that gets sucked into Wade's world.
These two have instant chemistry, even though it's part lust, part mistrust, and part hatred at first. There is an ebb and flow between Wade and Reagan. They both understand that the other is not good for them but they also can't fight the connection that pulls them towards each other.
The way this story builds had me glued. Even with the slow burn, this story is absolutely delicious. It's filled with secret identities, exes, family members that can't be trusted and a jaw-dropping conclusion.
Prepare to get sucked into this world of politics filled with deceitful, shady people.
Wade Lockwood is ambitious and has his eyes set on one thing and will do whatever he needs to in order to get there.
Reagan is a party planner that gets sucked into Wade's world.
These two have instant chemistry, even though it's part lust, part mistrust, and part hatred at first. There is an ebb and flow between Wade and Reagan. They both understand that the other is not good for them but they also can't fight the connection that pulls them towards each other.
The way this story builds had me glued. Even with the slow burn, this story is absolutely delicious. It's filled with secret identities, exes, family members that can't be trusted and a jaw-dropping conclusion.
May 29, 2020
I went into this book SO blind...and I'm glad I did. I hadn't even read the blurb, I wanted no hints, no anything. Oh. My. Lawd. Wade and Raegan together are the perfect mix of sassy, sweet, sexy, sinful, playful, and PERFECT. Their banter was on point and so relatable and realistic. I did NOT see the ending coming, but I can't wait to pick up Bonafide and see what happens next with these two. 5 stars all day, baby.
March 25, 2020
Didn’t care for the hero. Couldn’t connect with either MC.
March 22, 2020
Catfish by Hazel Grace is the First book in the Illusive Duet Series. This starts the story of Reagan and Wade. When reading this book be prepaid to not want to put it down. This book is a type of Catfish situation but one that wasn't started really with bad intent as some real life ones are. This was a somewhat slow burn but the attraction was from the start. Wade also was the alpha male that I love to read about with the strong heroine that throws the hero on his toes. I cannot wait for the next installment.
March 20, 2020
Hold onto your hats - you are in for a bumpy ride. Caught between a rock and a hard place, Wade is falling in love. The catch - he is pretending to be someone he is not, but falling for Reagan was not supposed to be in the cards. Filled with characters you instantly fall in love with and surround them with a storyline filled with politics, family dysfunction and add in the connection found only through text messages and you have yourself a wonderful read.
March 28, 2020
I wasn’t expecting what I got all!!
What I read was nothing short of amazing!!! I had no idea it was in the political sector or a slow burn!! Haha luckily for me Hazel is a truly gifted writer and this story of Wade and Reagan got me all kinds of invested!!! I really enjoyed the cliff I was shoved off of too!! Book 2 can’t come fast enough cause I have so many questions that need some answers!!
What I read was nothing short of amazing!!! I had no idea it was in the political sector or a slow burn!! Haha luckily for me Hazel is a truly gifted writer and this story of Wade and Reagan got me all kinds of invested!!! I really enjoyed the cliff I was shoved off of too!! Book 2 can’t come fast enough cause I have so many questions that need some answers!!
April 5, 2020
I don’t ever write reviews for books, because because I just don’t lol but this book makes me feel like it now for some reason 🤷🏽♀️.
There’s two things I hate when reading books -
1) When it’s rushed
2) When it drags on 🙂
But this book man. I’ve read about a thousand books and this one does it quite perfectly. I love the humour and the wit. I love the plot there’s a lot going on but it’s not messy, it’s all interwoven perfectly, I love storyline it reminds me of scandal she gives me Olivia Pope vibes lol, I love the character development man I hate a I’m in love let’s fuck-on-the-first-chapter type book like please get real. I love the chemistry and how genuine the relationship feels. I love the hero man do I love a good alpha. I appreciate that he’s a nice mix between being an asshole and a caring asshole haha. The heroine, damn I love me a sassy but real heroine. She’s blunt, don’t take no bullshit and sexy af 🤤. I guess it’s just different. I haven’t read a book like it and I appreciate when books take time and done right 👌🏽!
It’s got all my favourite things in one and it’s a great read so y’all should cop this book if you’re into any of what I said above. I can’t wait for the next book. Okay I’m done imma go reread cause I need me some Yank and Sox! Thank you bye ✌🏽
There’s two things I hate when reading books -
1) When it’s rushed
2) When it drags on 🙂
But this book man. I’ve read about a thousand books and this one does it quite perfectly. I love the humour and the wit. I love the plot there’s a lot going on but it’s not messy, it’s all interwoven perfectly, I love storyline it reminds me of scandal she gives me Olivia Pope vibes lol, I love the character development man I hate a I’m in love let’s fuck-on-the-first-chapter type book like please get real. I love the chemistry and how genuine the relationship feels. I love the hero man do I love a good alpha. I appreciate that he’s a nice mix between being an asshole and a caring asshole haha. The heroine, damn I love me a sassy but real heroine. She’s blunt, don’t take no bullshit and sexy af 🤤. I guess it’s just different. I haven’t read a book like it and I appreciate when books take time and done right 👌🏽!
It’s got all my favourite things in one and it’s a great read so y’all should cop this book if you’re into any of what I said above. I can’t wait for the next book. Okay I’m done imma go reread cause I need me some Yank and Sox! Thank you bye ✌🏽
March 30, 2020
DAMM CLIFFHANGER!!!!
March 23, 2020
How?!
I mean, how is this even possible?
I’ve read my fair share for books by Hazel Grace so, I thought that by now I would at least have
an inkling of what could be expecting me once I dived deep into “Catfish”.
Oh, but little old me was so wrong…
Firstly, let’s just get some things out of the way: I’d hate to repeat myself too much but since I
know it’s almost impossible, I’ll just embrace it.
Hey, maybe if you’re a first time reader, it’ll help you get a sense of what you’re about to get
yourself into.
Here’s some little-loose-bit-and-pieces-slash-keywords from a couple of my previous reviews:
* “beautiful and captivating writing style”
* “original ideas”
* “unique characters”
* “twisted/questionable morals”
* “unconventional relationships”
* “a somber ache”
* “every single second of palpable tension, impending doom, danger and pain, gut-wrenching
descriptions and excruciatingly honest exchanges.”
Are you conviced yet? Okay, let me expand on it, point by point, shall we?
Hazel Grace has indeed, in my opinion, a very specific and recognizable writing style and that
alone is able to get you immersed in the world she created: her first introduction of characters
let's you know straight away some of their traits while giving a small sense of what you could
expect from them. And I do mean “small” – this lady right here was been knighted by yours truly
was one of the Queens of Plotwists.
That would lead us directly to some of the other points I mentioned above. All of the books I’ve
ever read by Hazel Grace – and I absolutley mean it when I say “all” – have refreshingly original
plots and, as you would expect, extraordinarily unparalleled characters. Even if you normally read
dark romance or alike and are generally comfortable surrounded by some “fuckedupness”, I can
almost certainly guarantee you that you’ll have some difficulty scouring your brain for similarities
to other fictional beings. Don’t think I need to go into too much detail about the “unconventional
relationships” item from the list above since I guess you’ve gathered by now that’s just a given,
taken the singularity of the intervenients. Still, if I could offer you an exemple of this exact
concept – while at the same time giving a book suggestion – I’d point you towards the Bases
Series.
Also yes, I said it – Fuckedupness: I believe I came up with that on my own; I might trademark it,
who knows? ;D
Regardless, I’ve yet to find a better word to describe in general terms what you could expect
from a book by Hazel Grace. And since I’ve started this, I might as well keep going: perfect
representation of the made-up expression used above, would be the Disorderly Duet. Quick
warning – prepare yourself.
Remember those “twisted/questionable morals”? Uh… yeah, Wyatt is king. I’d said you'll feel like
kissing and slapping him at the same but that would only be the first level of that game, so I
don’t know; are you ready for the boss fights?
Ok, so we’ve reach the two most cryptical of all the elements cited - “a somber ache”/
“every single second of palpable tension, impending doom, danger and pain, gut-wrenching
descriptions and excruciatingly honest exchanges.”
Every story I’ve ever read had this uneasiness to it, some anxiety-inducing restlessness.
It’s this permanent fog of uncertainty, waiting for the other shoe to drop and everything go
sideways; anticipating that supposedly inevitable pain and suffering.
You’re kept on your toes at all times and white knuckling the edge of your seat, bracing for it all.
I’m sorry it got me this long to get here but I needed to get that all of my chest; I finished reading
“Catfish” last night and I myself, was left in this peculiar introspective state.
So, Wade and Reagan…
What to say?
There still so much to learn about both of them, and the plotwists are just getting started, and
obviously the cliffhanger is not even the one I was expecting it to be, and I won’t even try to
guess what the next book’s starting point is going to be, and…
Yeah, unknowns and just some of the reasons why Hazel Grace is a freaking genius.
She gaves us yet another badass woman to cheer for and another hot-asshole to swoon and
drool all over, but those are just some of the surface level, obvious actions to engage in.
There’s so much more to Wade than meets the eye and I genuinely felt his struggle – the battle
between what we worked and fought for his entire life and what his heart wants and absolutely
cannot get. My heart actually hurts for him. And I’m honestly terrified of Reagan's reaction when
she finds out the truth.
And Reagan? She’s such a complex character.
She has so much on her plate already and I don’t think she realizes the full extent of her influence
and/or her part in all of this political world.
Also, I extremely curious about some of the characters already introduced and how they’re going
to develop.
Needless to stay that I’m beyond excited for book two and it can’t get here fast enough.
March 27, 2020
Rude hero starting on the first pages—ugh!
March 20, 2020
Overall rating- ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ and it deserves much much more.⠀
⠀
I received an ARC in exchange of my honest review. ⠀
⠀
I have been reading pretty great books these last few weeks but 'Catfish' is so far my favourite one. This story had me gripped and I just couldn't, for the life of me, put it down. It was a lengthy book with almost 500 pages and took me three days to finish it but trust me when I say this - I wasn't bored for a moment. One thing that I concluded after reading Catfish is that Hazel Grace is an amazing author. She penned this story not only with great characters but she also managed not to reveal a single secret in any of these 500 pages. Except for the last one maybe cause the Cliffhanger literally left me hanging for the rest of Wade and Rea's love story. My jaw literally dropped! I kid you not. I think I need a little time to think though all the awesomess that is this book. Get ready to one-click it ladies and ladies. You are about to fall in love with Rea and in hate with Wade. Not to mention the hot sex scenes between these two which didn't take place till almost at 60 percent into the story so you can definitely say that it's a slow burn. And it was a delicious torture. The sexual tension between these two was so thick that you could cut it with a knife. These two are complete opposite of each other and yet so perfect together. I loved Reagan. She is such a strong character despite of her past. A classic straight shooter but also takes responsibility of her mistakes rather than running away from them. That was a very refreshing and made her one of my favorites. I didn't like Wade so much at the beginning but that started to change as the story progressed. How he became what he is in the present or what happened in his past is yet to see but it was very clear that he liked Rea from the very first time he laid eyes on her. These two are dynamic duo and them falling in love with each other is my favourite part of the book. The supporting characters were equally great. My favourite is Emmy. I loved her and her relationship with Wade was a awesome. Their banter was equally entertaining as hell. I would love to read her book if that's possible in the future. ⠀
⠀
In a nutshell, I had a great time reading it and really can't recommend it enough. I am positively smitten with this book. I can truly say that you are not ready for Reagan and Wade. Its gonna be live on March 24 and I sincerely hope that you all love it as much as I did. May be more. ⠀
⠀
Stay safe and Keep reading!⠀
⠀
⠀
I received an ARC in exchange of my honest review. ⠀
⠀
I have been reading pretty great books these last few weeks but 'Catfish' is so far my favourite one. This story had me gripped and I just couldn't, for the life of me, put it down. It was a lengthy book with almost 500 pages and took me three days to finish it but trust me when I say this - I wasn't bored for a moment. One thing that I concluded after reading Catfish is that Hazel Grace is an amazing author. She penned this story not only with great characters but she also managed not to reveal a single secret in any of these 500 pages. Except for the last one maybe cause the Cliffhanger literally left me hanging for the rest of Wade and Rea's love story. My jaw literally dropped! I kid you not. I think I need a little time to think though all the awesomess that is this book. Get ready to one-click it ladies and ladies. You are about to fall in love with Rea and in hate with Wade. Not to mention the hot sex scenes between these two which didn't take place till almost at 60 percent into the story so you can definitely say that it's a slow burn. And it was a delicious torture. The sexual tension between these two was so thick that you could cut it with a knife. These two are complete opposite of each other and yet so perfect together. I loved Reagan. She is such a strong character despite of her past. A classic straight shooter but also takes responsibility of her mistakes rather than running away from them. That was a very refreshing and made her one of my favorites. I didn't like Wade so much at the beginning but that started to change as the story progressed. How he became what he is in the present or what happened in his past is yet to see but it was very clear that he liked Rea from the very first time he laid eyes on her. These two are dynamic duo and them falling in love with each other is my favourite part of the book. The supporting characters were equally great. My favourite is Emmy. I loved her and her relationship with Wade was a awesome. Their banter was equally entertaining as hell. I would love to read her book if that's possible in the future. ⠀
⠀
In a nutshell, I had a great time reading it and really can't recommend it enough. I am positively smitten with this book. I can truly say that you are not ready for Reagan and Wade. Its gonna be live on March 24 and I sincerely hope that you all love it as much as I did. May be more. ⠀
⠀
Stay safe and Keep reading!⠀
⠀
March 23, 2020
Hazel Grace is venturing into new and unchartered territory, Political Romance. I don’t get to read political romances (PR) often, but I will whole heartedly when I find one I like. Catfish is that type of book.
Raegan is another strong-willed character who knows that everything she does is for her family. She loves and adores her mother and brother immensely, but sometimes she gets overwhelmed and that pressure gets to her. She is feisty, sharp witted, and knows how to handle wayward politicians. She is a great character and counterpoint to Wade.
Wade and Reagan met through an online dating service and they soon find themselves desperate and longing for the next text message. Wade and Reagan are just cute perfection together! I loved this happy little couple until Hazel Grace decided to shake up everyone’s world and pull the rug out from underneath me with that cliffhanger! So, I didn’t expect to see that one. After picking my jaw off the floor and a slight outbreak of ‘you didn’t, no way, and what are you doing?’ could be heard throughout my house, I regained my senses and am now counting down the days to book 2. I HAVE to know where this story goes from here.
Our main characters are Wade and Reagan. Wade currently is the governor with aspirations of landing in the White House. As you can imagine for any guy in his 30’s, he has a great deal of pressure from everyone (parents, siblings, his constituents, other political members.) The only people who seem to truly have his back is his PA, Emmy, and best friend, Chase.
Raegan is another strong-willed character who knows that everything she does is for her family. She loves and adores her mother and brother immensely, but sometimes she gets overwhelmed and that pressure gets to her. She is feisty, sharp witted, and knows how to handle wayward politicians. She is a great character and counterpoint to Wade.
Wade and Reagan met through an online dating service and they soon find themselves desperate and longing for the next text message. Wade and Reagan are just cute perfection together! I loved this happy little couple until Hazel Grace decided to shake up everyone’s world and pull the rug out from underneath me with that cliffhanger! So, I didn’t expect to see that one. After picking my jaw off the floor and a slight outbreak of ‘you didn’t, no way, and what are you doing?’ could be heard throughout my house, I regained my senses and am now counting down the days to book 2. I HAVE to know where this story goes from here.
March 26, 2020
And Hazel Grace has done it again!! Catfish is FIRE and I couldn't wait to read more of the baddie girl Reagan and Wade Fing Lockwood. This book had me laughing from the start. I mean the text messages between Reagan and Chase, need I say more. Reagan is a don't give a F*** girl who is what she is and is unapologetic about and she is seriously one of my favorite heroine's I've read so far this year. Reagan is a ball buster and will not cower or bow to anyone and Wade wasn't ready.
Wade Lockwood means business and will not let anything and anyone get in his way. What he wasn't expecting a text message by chance and Reagan to bulldoze her way into his life.
I made myself take my time to read this book because I knew once it finished I would have to wait for book 2. With every page I became more intrigued, laughed, swooned and then almost had a heart attack with that curveball of a cliffhanger. Hazel Grace's writing is real and ballsy and I am here for it! Anxiously waiting for book 2!
Wade Lockwood means business and will not let anything and anyone get in his way. What he wasn't expecting a text message by chance and Reagan to bulldoze her way into his life.
I made myself take my time to read this book because I knew once it finished I would have to wait for book 2. With every page I became more intrigued, laughed, swooned and then almost had a heart attack with that curveball of a cliffhanger. Hazel Grace's writing is real and ballsy and I am here for it! Anxiously waiting for book 2!
Want to read
November 29, 2021🎁 FREE on Amazon today (11/29/2021)! 🎁
December 2, 2021
I tried really.
March 23, 2020
Romance and Politics isn’t everyone’s cup of tea, but I love it. I am apolitical junky. I love the dirtiness of politics and the complications that seem to happen when you throw in a romance and shake things up. I always think a pollical romance trope has so many ways to move the story around and change up the “typical”. Catfish does this with simply having Wade hide behind his best friend’s dating profile. You get a glimpse of the true man under his political veneer. Wade comes across as funny and engaging. Which really seems a complete 180 from his pollical persona.
Wade is a hard man and in book one we know he struggles with his family and has few true friends. But there is something about him the seems to warrant complete loyalty from what few friends he has. We do not learn the reasons in Book One. We do see that there is something there that effects all the relationships he is in.
Reagan is a hard nut to crack and boy does she have a type. She has a thing for men in power. She also has such amazing snark and sarcasm, I kind of want to be her best friend. Reagan also seems to have difficulty maintain close relationships. She owns an event planning business with her cousin, but she doesn’t seem to open about her life to her. She is good as what she does and seems able to handle any situation that is thrown as her. I love her and Wades interactions. They have an electrifying attraction to each other, and how others in the room aren’t sensing it and questioning it floors me. They can’t be that good at hiding it.
I have not yet decided how I feel about the story Catfish. I love a good anti-hero. I love a story of a girl skirting the edge of good trying to turn her life fully to the good. But there are so many open questions as the book ends on a huge cliff hanger. Not one-story line was resolved, and I am going to need book two in the Duet to have a full impression of the story. So far, I am engaged, I will absolutely be reading book two. But my full impression of the story can’t happen until I finish the story. I need resolution people!!
Catfish was a 3.75 out 5 stars read for me. It always is frustrating as a reader to not have any story lines resolved or at least one final moment of realization. Hopefully Book 2 gives me that.
Wade is a hard man and in book one we know he struggles with his family and has few true friends. But there is something about him the seems to warrant complete loyalty from what few friends he has. We do not learn the reasons in Book One. We do see that there is something there that effects all the relationships he is in.
Reagan is a hard nut to crack and boy does she have a type. She has a thing for men in power. She also has such amazing snark and sarcasm, I kind of want to be her best friend. Reagan also seems to have difficulty maintain close relationships. She owns an event planning business with her cousin, but she doesn’t seem to open about her life to her. She is good as what she does and seems able to handle any situation that is thrown as her. I love her and Wades interactions. They have an electrifying attraction to each other, and how others in the room aren’t sensing it and questioning it floors me. They can’t be that good at hiding it.
I have not yet decided how I feel about the story Catfish. I love a good anti-hero. I love a story of a girl skirting the edge of good trying to turn her life fully to the good. But there are so many open questions as the book ends on a huge cliff hanger. Not one-story line was resolved, and I am going to need book two in the Duet to have a full impression of the story. So far, I am engaged, I will absolutely be reading book two. But my full impression of the story can’t happen until I finish the story. I need resolution people!!
Catfish was a 3.75 out 5 stars read for me. It always is frustrating as a reader to not have any story lines resolved or at least one final moment of realization. Hopefully Book 2 gives me that.
March 20, 2020
I have loved reading all of Hazel Grace’s books, so when I get to dive into a new one I always get excited. Hazel knows exactly what to give the readers whilst writing the books for herself and I love that her passion for it never stops shining through. She is one extremely talented author and with each book her writing improves and expands, and I honestly never expect it to because with each book I read before I always think is perfect. So as you can imagine it’s always a surprise to find out she is just growing as an author. This book was gripping and had me wanting to keep on reading, but whilst it was gripping, I found that Hazel can be pretty brutal when it comes to ending books and the cliff-hanger she leaves this book with is just cruel as you have no idea how the next book is going to play out next but you just are too excited to get your hands on it. I honestly think that Hazel did a great job with all the twists and turns she put in this book, plus it’s got the drama, the heat, the chemistry and everything else you could imagine. Hazel really knows what readers want and she didn’t disappoint.
I would recommend that you give this a try because honestly, Hazel is only getting more and more talented by the book.
Wade is a smart man, he used to worship his father as he wanted to help make a difference in the world. However, years later his vision of his father changed and he saw all the deceit that there was surrounding him. Normally any guy would just get out of there and run for miles, but not Wade, instead he decided to put his brain and smart willpower to good use and is now running for President…. He has no time for a social life, no time for games and he especially has no time for his family… Who is just a huge lie in his eyes and are only after power and money. So when he stumbles upon his best friends messages on his phone, he can’t help but see what his friend has been up too and the last thing he expected was to get so wrapped up in a conversation with the lovely Reagan… He can’t reveal his identity because he knows she’d never speak to him again, but how can he resist her? When their worlds collide, how will Wade handle everything? Will he reveal who he is or will he keep at bay and keep watching from a distance?
I would recommend that you give this a try because honestly, Hazel is only getting more and more talented by the book.
Wade is a smart man, he used to worship his father as he wanted to help make a difference in the world. However, years later his vision of his father changed and he saw all the deceit that there was surrounding him. Normally any guy would just get out of there and run for miles, but not Wade, instead he decided to put his brain and smart willpower to good use and is now running for President…. He has no time for a social life, no time for games and he especially has no time for his family… Who is just a huge lie in his eyes and are only after power and money. So when he stumbles upon his best friends messages on his phone, he can’t help but see what his friend has been up too and the last thing he expected was to get so wrapped up in a conversation with the lovely Reagan… He can’t reveal his identity because he knows she’d never speak to him again, but how can he resist her? When their worlds collide, how will Wade handle everything? Will he reveal who he is or will he keep at bay and keep watching from a distance?
March 29, 2020
Catfish is the first book in Illusive Duet #1. Now, where do I start? When I first read this author's book Siren, I knew she had this vivid potential to draw in her readers for first time but damn it, she's addicting! Her portrayal of emotions is perfectly on point and every nook has been carefully finalized. Catfish was full of surprises and something I have not read or seen more in the writing world. Doubled with passion, intimacy, secrets, lies, pretense, hilarious moments and a sassy firecracker to attract our hot shot obsessive alpha male, this story will keep you on heels at all the times. It won't let you stray away for even a minute.
"Fuck a princess when you have a seductress who entices every illusion and figment of your imagination at your fingertips - literally."
I can't give much about this book without spoiling it but all I'd say is you keep your patience till the end. It gets spicier with each turn of page. You'll soon find yourself burning and greedy for more. More words. More of everything. Wade & our Bumblebee were pure fire. In enchanting Reagan, Wade finds himself in a situation that he can't easily back out. May be it's an addiction? Love? Lust? But what happens when the past returns in full swing and threatens to harm the only one whom you have come to love and care about. In this tantalizing journey of mysteries, seduction and arrogance, I lost myself completely and irrevocably. Wade had a command in him that was impossible to ignore and disobey but for that, we have our very own Reagan who chooses to defy this man at every stage and press his buttons in the loveliest manners. But is Wade really the man he claims to be? What lies beneath his secret alibi?
They soon find themselves in a tangle which will take only few truths, here and there to fix the massive trouble they are in! Releasing on 24th March, mark your calendars people; for you're invited to the unending drama of a man who has fallen head over in heels for our sassy girl and isn't ready to let her part just yet.
March 26, 2020
Ohh...My...Geezus!! Catfish was an Amazing Read! This is my second book by this author and I'm in love! Catfish is book one in Grace's Illusive Duet. And it will suck you in and leave you wreaked! This book is sexy and funny, it's alluring and the slow burn will have you feverish! I fell in love with Wade from the start, you can't help but be drawn to him. He's got a dream and he's not about to let anyone ruin it. He wasn't expecting Reagan, and now he can't help himself. He's not who he says he is. She has no idea! It's refreshing and comical to witness their encounters. You root for them, and they take chunks of you. Reagan has a past she's beating herself up over every day. There are still some things we don't know. Wade also has scars from his past and we're left in the dark about that part of him. Everyone knows that a politician's life is usually surrounded by scandals and while it's all around them, Wade's different. Wade is the ultimate triple threat, He's mysterious, Hansome and Savage! He's a grade A a>>hole and works hard to keep everyone out. Reagan is used to making sacrifices for her family and lives a life full of guilt. When these two cross paths all the oxygen is sucked from your lungs! They're explosive! Right, when you think the secret is about to be revealed, your hearts racing and you're griping your reader tighter...Grace delivers a soul-crushing blow! AHHHHH! I'm an epic mess right now! Still reeling from that sentence I know I read at least twenty times to be sure I got it right. I'm left both stunned and screaming! I loved this book so much! I'm dying for the second part of this duet! I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
March 25, 2020
Hazel Grace is a new to me author, and HOLY HELL! Now, when you think Catfish, you think things which are on the malicious intent side, and while this story isn't malicious per se, it doesn't change the fact that Wade Lockwood is pretending to be someone he's not when it comes to party planner, Reagan, and the more he gets to know her, the less he wants to reveal all. He knows that she shouldn't be in his shady world of politics, and yet, he can't seem to stay away from her, though it is a slow burn situation with secrets. And as with all politics, there are twists & turns everywhere, as everyone is basically out for themselves. Wade is an alpha who may or may not have made some questionable decisions, and yet, I still loved him. Not to mention, it was so stinking entertaining to watch he & Reagan go toe to toe, as she's not one to bow down. And with all the buildup, the flames of chemistry only gets brighter & brighter, which I'm here for. Now, it's a Duet, so you should know that there is more to come, and the waiting game has me dying inside a bit. So, hit your one click button, as I HIGHLY HIGHLY HIGHLY RECOMMEND!
May 11, 2020
Catfish is the first book I’ve read from this author and it most certainly won’t be the last. I’m not going to lie though, this book took a while for me to really get into...but once I kept reading it ended up sucking me into its vortex.
Wade is unrefined, obscene, intense, powerful...all consuming. He refuses to grant anyone the ability to get close to him due to his sordid past. His ultimate goal is to become the POTUS and refuses to let anyone stand in his way. His methods are...unorthodox...but he gets his job done regardless of who he has to cross.
Reagan somehow managed to weasel her way into his heart. She was a smart-ass from the get go. Her humor flowed naturally from her mouth and she was quick witted. Absolutely my favorite type of heroine. She was haunted by her wrongdoings from her past and that prevented herself from opening up. Wade and Reagan were more alike than they liked to admit.
All-in-all this book was a fantastic read. The only thing I disliked was the cliffhanger at the end. I. Hate. Cliffhangers. BUT the second book comes out May, 19th..and I was lucky enough to receive an ARC for it so away I go! 😉
Wade is unrefined, obscene, intense, powerful...all consuming. He refuses to grant anyone the ability to get close to him due to his sordid past. His ultimate goal is to become the POTUS and refuses to let anyone stand in his way. His methods are...unorthodox...but he gets his job done regardless of who he has to cross.
Reagan somehow managed to weasel her way into his heart. She was a smart-ass from the get go. Her humor flowed naturally from her mouth and she was quick witted. Absolutely my favorite type of heroine. She was haunted by her wrongdoings from her past and that prevented herself from opening up. Wade and Reagan were more alike than they liked to admit.
All-in-all this book was a fantastic read. The only thing I disliked was the cliffhanger at the end. I. Hate. Cliffhangers. BUT the second book comes out May, 19th..and I was lucky enough to receive an ARC for it so away I go! 😉
March 26, 2020
4.5 Illusive Stars!!! What a great first book in the series!!! Loved!
This is a great start of the series, and I can't wait to see what else is coming next!! Wade and Reagan are deadly hot, and the chemistry these two have is off the charts!!! I was sucked in the minute I started reading, and has to be my favorite read of this quarantine period! It made me forget what was going on... which is just what this girl needed!
April 21, 2020
OMG! If you have not read this book, you need to! Wade is a mysterious man that keeps to him self, but does not take shit from no one. He is an alpha male you hate to love and he is very ambitious. He invades his best friend Chase’s cell phone one drunken night, when Wade notices a message. He talks to Reagan a party planner via the dating app and portrays himself as Chase since it is his dating profile. Not knowing that one day he will be hiring Reagan as his political party planner but still chatting with her as Chase. He starts to fall in love with her as the days go on. The smart mouth banter between them is amazing. The chemistry they have is remarkable. They do holds secrets and at the end of this book you find out one big secret Wade has been holding from all of us!!! Book two comes out in May so stay tune to find out what each ones secrets are and if they will stay together or not.
March 27, 2020
“Hazel Grace was a new author to me before Catfish and OMG! It’s hard to describe this book for starters Catfish makes you think of a malicious side but this story wasn’t about being evil. It showed what happens when you pretend to be someone that you aren’t for someone else. Pretty much what I’m trying to say is that Catfish was fire. Prepare yourself! You won’t be able to put it down!
A sassy girl and a man with a hidden side. I felt in love with this story. I laughed, cried and yelled in frustration after that ending… I was like OMG no!! I need answers!!! The plot and the characters were like freshen air. It had been a while since I read a book like this and it totally hooked me up.
Catfish, book one in the Illusive Duet series is a must read! Wade Lockwood I’m waiting for you in book two!!!”
A sassy girl and a man with a hidden side. I felt in love with this story. I laughed, cried and yelled in frustration after that ending… I was like OMG no!! I need answers!!! The plot and the characters were like freshen air. It had been a while since I read a book like this and it totally hooked me up.
Catfish, book one in the Illusive Duet series is a must read! Wade Lockwood I’m waiting for you in book two!!!”
July 18, 2020
Catfish was one of those books that took me completely by surprise. I didn’t know what to expect but it had me completely captivated. I could not put it down!
I did not expect some of the humor that was thrown in and Reagan and Wade had me giggling out loud on more than one occasion.
I wasn’t sure if I was going to like this book at first, purely because of the political aspect but was pleasantly surprised!
Holy crap, and that cliffhanger ending!!!! Wtf?!? I did not see that coming at all!!!!!
I was clearly waiting for Reagan to run in to Chase (sewing as he is Wades best friend) and I kinda saw that happening as the cliffhanger but completely shocked at what really happened! Hazel really threw us with that curve ball!!
Such an addictive story! Cannot wait to read Bonafide!
I did not expect some of the humor that was thrown in and Reagan and Wade had me giggling out loud on more than one occasion.
I wasn’t sure if I was going to like this book at first, purely because of the political aspect but was pleasantly surprised!
Holy crap, and that cliffhanger ending!!!! Wtf?!? I did not see that coming at all!!!!!
I was clearly waiting for Reagan to run in to Chase (sewing as he is Wades best friend) and I kinda saw that happening as the cliffhanger but completely shocked at what really happened! Hazel really threw us with that curve ball!!
Such an addictive story! Cannot wait to read Bonafide!
March 20, 2020
Catfish is a whole new new vibe that Hazel has created. The storyline is original and page turning till the very end. I’m always obsessed with her alpha males and Wade is no exception. He’s ruthless in his position as a politician and won’t let anything come between him and the Oval Office until Reagan. I think she by far is my favorite leading lady by this author. She’s feisty and strong but has this vulnerability beneath it all that you can’t help gravitating towards. This story is complex and consuming it keeps you wanting more. Of course Hazel ends it on the best yet infuriating cliff hanger so be prepared!! You aren’t ready for Wade Lockwood, I wasn’t.
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