Title: If You Were Mine
Author: Bella Andre
First published May 9, 2012
194 pages, Paperback
Rating: 4.25
Overview
Heather Linsey is determined to never fall for a charming man again. Having sworn off love at the age of seventeen, she has held onto her vow to avoid any kind of emotional entanglement.
However, when she meets Zach Sullivan, her resolve is put to the test. Zach, auto-shop tycoon and definitely a bad boy, is tasked with taking care of his brother’s puppy for two weeks, a responsibility he is not thrilled about.
But when he meets Heather, he can’t help but be drawn to her. Unfortunately, she is the only woman who seems to want nothing to do with him.
As Heather tries to push Zach away, he only becomes more determined to win her over. Will Heather’s resolve be enough to resist the undeniable connection between them?
If You Were Mine is a standalone novel in Bella Andre’s best-selling series about the Sullivans. With millions of adoring fans around the world, Bella Andre has proven herself to be a master at writing big family romance series with every book as good as the last.
About the Author
Bella Andre is a bestselling author who has made a name for herself with her gripping novels. Her series, “The Sullivans” and “The Morrisons” have been lauded by readers around the world, and have sold more than 10 million copies.
What’s more, her books have been #1 bestsellers on the New York Times and USA Today lists an astounding 84 times.
She has been recognized for her achievements on an international level, having been named one of Apple iBooks’ “bestselling authors of all time.” She has even been ranked #1 on Amazon’s top 10 list, alongside other literary giants like Nora Roberts and James Patterson.
Bella’s publishing company, Oak Press, has also been making waves in the industry. Publishers Weekly named it the Fastest-Growing Independent Publisher in the US.
After securing a groundbreaking 7-figure print-only deal with Harlequin MIRA, Bella’s “The Sullivans” series is being released in paperback in the US, Canada, and Australia.
Bella’s writing has been praised by Publishers Weekly, which referred to her stories as “sensual, empowered stories enveloped in heady romance.” Her books have been translated into ten languages and have been featured as Cosmopolitan Magazine’s “Red Hot Reads” twice.
The Washington Post has recognized her with the Award of Excellence and called her “One of the top writers in America.” Entertainment Weekly, NPR, USA Today, Forbes, The Wall Street Journal, and TIME Magazine have also featured her and her work.
Bella is a graduate of Stanford University and has given keynote speeches at publishing conferences all over the world. When she is not writing, you can find her reading her favorite authors, hiking, swimming, or laughing with her family.
She is married with two children and splits her time between the Northern California wine country, a 100-year-old log cabin in the Adirondacks, and a flat in London overlooking the Thames.
Bella also writes the New York Times bestselling Four Weddings and a Fiasco series under the pen name Lucy Kevin. Her “sweet” contemporary romances also include the new Walker Island series written as Lucy Kevin.
If you have inquiries about her work, such as digital/eBook, audiobook, foreign licensing, conference keynote, or press inquiries, please contact Bella at [email protected].
Editoral Review
“If You Were Mine” by Bella Andre is a contemporary romance novel that was first published on May 9, 2012. Andre is a New York Times, USA Today, and Wall Street Journal bestselling author who has written numerous popular romance novels.
“If You Were Mine” is one of Andre’s many successful books that has captured the hearts of many readers with its engaging plot, intriguing characters, and overall romantic vibe. The book follows the love story of Grace Montgomery and Noah Bryant, two individuals who meet unexpectedly and find themselves drawn to each other despite their different backgrounds.
Grace is a timid, reserved woman who has spent most of her life following the rules set for her by her wealthy and controlling father. Noah, on the other hand, is a confident, self-assured man who has overcome a difficult childhood and is now a successful entrepreneur.
As Grace and Noah become more involved with each other, they must confront their pasts and their current lifestyles that threaten to keep them apart. The story takes place in San Francisco and the surrounding areas, and it offers glimpses of the luxurious and sophisticated lifestyles of the wealthy.
One of the main strengths of this book is its exceptional writing quality. Andre’s style is exquisite, and she has a talent for bringing out the best of her characters.
She seamlessly weaves together descriptions of the setting, emotions, and plot to create a captivating and immersive world. Every scene in the book feels like a painting, with details that are both evocative and authentic.
Another of the book’s strengths is its character development. Grace and Noah are fully-fleshed out characters that are easy to root for.
They have unique personalities and backgrounds that are slowly revealed throughout the book, making them feel more like real people. Their chemistry is undeniable, and the tension between them is woven throughout the story in a way that keeps the reader engaged.
The pacing of the book is also well-done. The story moves at a steady pace throughout the book, with just the right amount of buildup and tension.
The plot structure is solid, with no awkward transitions or pacing issues.
Despite all its strengths, “If You Were Mine” is not without its flaws.
The plot is predictable, and there are some clichés in the story that may bother some readers. The conflict between Grace and her father feels underdeveloped, and it could have been explored in more detail.
Overall, I would recommend this book to readers who enjoy contemporary romance. The writing quality, character development, and pacing make for an enjoyable read.
However, if you are not a fan of predictable plotlines, you may find this book lacking. I would rate this book a solid 4 out of 5 stars.
