My past taught me to play it safe.To stay far away from handsome men who promised it all.My life was good without them. Stable, secure, predictable. But one kiss showed me that I’d been playing it safe for far too long.One night, and all I wanted was more of his wildfire.One challenge and my carefully constructed walls tumbled down.Amidst the rubble, I realized there was more to this man than I … there was more to this man than I ever dreamed.
When everything fell apart, he showed me what it meant to stay.
How to truly live.
But some demons don’t stay buried.
The past can come knocking when you least expect.
And the life he’s showing me might be shorter than either of us expected…
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Ugh this series is giving me all the feels. Kenna and Crosby’s story hit me square in the gut. I really connected with Kenna who’s dealing with this horrific thing that happened when she was a teenager. She wants the world to think she is in control but inside she’s still that scared teenager fighting for her life. She seeks solace in Crosby when the woman who brought her up dies and enters into an ugly battle with her family. Crosby is the exact opposite to Kenna, he’s the adventurer to her home body, the dare devil to her rule follower, the fun to her serious and they fit together perfectly.
This story will pull you apart. The journey that Kenna endures to get to her HEA is a hard fought one and Crosby is there to support her as much as she’ll let him.
Catherine continued to draw me into Anchor island and its close-knit community with this book. I almost felt like a resident, understanding the intricacies of island life. The cover of this book really embodies Catherine’s writing so perfectly. She’s like an artist, telling us the story as she fills the pages with her words. A painter, colouring the picture for us all to enjoy. She’s most definitely an emotional writer. I felt Kenna’s pain like it was my own, but I also felt the protectiveness Crosby had for her and their love blossoming and growing in strength. Along with the great story there is heat too. This book has it all.
Another fantastic audiobook. I love Maxine’s performances and this was no exception. She has this ability to make you FEEL, which, let’s be honest, is all you need. She showed us how raw Kenna was underneath it all. She has a great ‘male’ voice and so gave an amazing well rounded narration. Joe immediately embodied Crosby’s fun loving nature. He had great pacing and the ability to use pauses just where they were needed. Along with the go-getter that Crosby was, Joe was able to dig deep and show his growing affection and love for this woman he didn’t want to need but couldn’t stop from happening.
Once again Catherine smashes this one along with Maxine and Joe to make for an audiobook you won’t want to pause.
5 “Brown Eyes” Stars
As soon as I finished the previous novel in the Wrecked Series, I couldn’t wait to get my hands on Kenna and Crosby’s story! The animosity between the flirty “surfer boy” and the impassible woman had me intrigued as I’m a fan of enemies to lovers romance. The sparks in their every interaction had me salivating over the potential of their own love story. Perfect Wreckage was such a winner for me! I loved every moment of my read between the laughing, the swooning, the crying. This novel transported me on an emotional journey I wasn’t expecting.
“ , ’ , ’ ?”
Once again, all the characters from the little island town of Anchor charmed me. They’re such a great group of friends always lending a hand for each other. What can I say about our main protagonists? These two were so perfect together! Crosby was the ideal man to help Kenna embrace life fully and without fear. The guy had me weak in the knees from his level of devotion! Kenna was also an interesting heroine with her strength and independance. She surpassed difficult obstacles in her life that made her scared to trust people. When she’s in need of help, Crosby is there for her and their relationship blossoms so exquisitely into a beautiful love story! Between adorable and funny scenes, they also share a burning passion.
“ , .”
Catherine Cowles had me totally hooked by this amazing couple and the great plot line. Perfect Wreckage was everything and more!
Perfect Wreckage is the second book in the Wrecked Series and a gem it was! Two amazing people that had been hurt in the past find each other and it’s absolutely beautiful. I loved the little tidbits of Crosby and Kenna in the first book and this just solidified it. I couldn’t put this book down with the love, angst, twists and turns. Great characters and such a good story! Highly recommend this beautiful book!
Catherine Cowles has given us another brilliant book full of heartache, friendship and love.
Kenna has been fortunate to find family in unconventional places. Crosby is her friend who comes from a completely different world. He escaped the wealth and privilege of his upbringing to a simpler life. When tragedy strikes and Kenna’s world falls apart, she must decide if love is worth the risk. Love has been a tricky emotion for her all her life and she us unsure if risking her heart with Crosby when he can’t make any promises is too much for her to handle.
“Life is messy and terrifying, but it is also crazy beautiful. You taught me that. You showed me that my wreckage could be perfect in its own way, that all those little cracks in my soul just made me stronger, more beautiful. Truly and authentically me. You taught me what it means to truly live.”
When a past love threatens Kenna’s future and happiness, we watch Crosby bring her out of her shell and stand by her side all at the same time.
“Kenna was stunning, but it was the beauty that she hid away, the heart that cared so deeply, that stole my breath.”
Perfect Story
Perfect Family
Perfect Ending for Kenna and Crosby!
Sure glad that Grant got what he had coming to him.
Kenna has had her heart broken and dreams crushed one too many times. So she has built up walls, refuses to completely let go and has created a stable and comfortable life. Until Crosby comes around. Crosby is the exact opposite, he refuses to be tied down and wants a carefree life. Kenna can’t stand Crosby’s ways and Crosby loves nothing more than pushing her buttons. But when Kenna suffers another loss and her emotions get the best of her they start a friends with benefits relationship. We all knows what happens next. Feelings. That is what happens next. All the feelings.
THIS. BOOK. IS. EVERYTHING. Perfect Wreckage is exactly what a romance should be. I laughed, I cried, I wanted to throat punch a few people, I swooned, and laughed, cried and swooned some more. This book is absolute perfection. I adored both of the characters – I felt and understood both of their back stories. They felt genuine and real. Their development/growth, individually and together, was amazing. Then throw in a side of suspense and this book is everything I never knew I needed. In a month of very good reads, this was a top of that list. Will definitely be a top read of the year for me. What rock was I under . . . and why did it take me so long to come out from under it? Just freaking amazing!
Wow, what a beautiful story. Every time I pick up one of Catherine Cowles’ books I fall in love all over again. They are the perfect amount of romance, humour, suspense and adventure. I’m so excited to start the next one!
For the full review, go to http://gabookaholics.blogspot.com/2021/03/perfect-wreckage-by-catherine-cowles.html?m=1
“If you really want to live your life to the fullest, you have to let go of who you think you should be and let yourself become who you truly are.” – Catherine Cowles, Perfect Wreckage
That quote got me. It is a great summary of what this book really is about. This story follows Kenna and Crosby. This is the second book in the Wrecked series. I originally didn’t think I could like a second book in a series more than I liked the first, but… I do. I loved Kenna and Crosby’s story. Don’t get me wrong, I love Bell and Ford in Reckless Memories, but there is just something about Kenna and Crosby to me.
Even in Reckless Memories, we would get snippets of Crosby teasing or poking at ‘Brown Eyes’ and her not giving him the time of day, but still not hating his attention and affection. Even as a side character, Crosby seemed like he had a kind heart and Kenna desperately needed that. Kenna, in the first book, seemed like such a badass but also untouchable. She is close with Bell and Caelyn, but that was about it.
Through this book we learn a lot more about Kenna and what has made her into the impenetrable force that she is. She has gone through a lot in her life, after having a mother who never acted as a mother but more of a toxic relationship, a father she never knew, and several other traumas that you’ll read about if you read this book. It helped me to realize how big of a fighter she truly is, and also why she fights so hard to let people in. She’s been let down way too many times to be willing to be vulnerable again. This is another one of those super relatable characters that I love to read about. I also just want to give Kenna a big hug.
Crosby grew up in a very affluent family, but didn’t have the perfect family life that you may expect. He had his basic needs covered while there are plenty that don’t, but he definitely has scars from growing up with his family. These scars prevent him from being vulnerable with others as well. He’s constantly searching for that freedom, that adrenaline high to remind him he’s alive and he’s his own man.
When Crosby starts to get to know Kenna more and more, he finds himself conflicted internally. Will he be able to “give up” that freedom that he so desperately needs to settle down with someone? Will Kenna be able to open herself up to the possibility of getting hurt again?
This story was just so good. It kept me flipping the pages and wanting to know more and more. I can’t finish my review without mentioning two other characters though: Harriet and Zoe. I loved Harriet’s character for Kenna. She stepped in when Kenna’s own biological mother couldn’t be bothered. Harriet shared her home, her heart, her love, and her wisdom, and Kenna became all the better for it. Everyone deserves to have a Harriet in their lives. And Zoe… sweet Zoe! I love Crosby’s heart for donating so much of his time and legal expertise to help kids in the foster care system. Zoe is one of those kids and a kid Crosby was able to save from a terrible foster home situation based on his intuition and gut. I love the heart Crosby has for Zoe and Kenna as well after Crosby introduced them. This was just another section of this book that just…made my heart smile.
Overall, I just loved this book so much! Oh and I can’t wait for Caelyn’s story next!!
Love the friendship first bond!
Love Catherine’s books and I love how the character from her other books are woven into the story.
Kenna’s previous relationships have left her a bit broken and closed off from finding a new relationship/boyfriend. Crosby has been burned and refuses to look for a long lasting relationship…just looking for a good time with no strings attached. Initially Kenna and Crosby thought they were just going to fool around and have a good time.
As their pasts come back into their lives attempting to cause distraction, they turn to each other and their friends to get through. Love, determination, forgiveness and friendship are beautifully woven into the story.
I was super excited to get an ARC of Perfect Wreckage I’ve been waiting for felt like ever to read this book. This book was absolutely FANTASTIC. It was everything I was hoping it would be and more. Catherine Cowles has out done herself once again with this book. It has all the emotions plus some. I can not wait for the next book in this series!
I just love Catherine’s books! It’s always such sweet and beautiful love story. They really are one of my most favorites to read and I always look forward to them. Kenna is such an awesome character and I really loved her storyline. I’ve been looking forward to her story since Reckless Memories and was not disappointed! And what to say about Crosby?! He’s just the dreamiest and the kind of guy I wish I could meet lol. I laughed and even teared up at times which is my favorite kind of book!! This was such a great story I really enjoyed it. I can’t wait for Catherine’s next book!!
Gah, Catherine does it again! I fell hard for this couple; this author has such a way with words that grip you by your heartstrings and never let you go! And I wouldn’t have it any other way!
Crosby and Kenna have both had life experiences that shut them off to the possibilities of love and family; but the foundation of friendship and trust they build together bridges those gaps and their happily ever after is everything!
Kenna comes from a broken home with an addict mother that makes her life hell. She finally finds peace when a woman, that eventually becomes much more than a mother to her than her own would ever be, takes custody of her. Kenna experiences love and so much loss in a short period of time right out of high school that she shuts the world out and has an incessant need to control all aspects of her life, which doesn’t leave much room to live free…until Crosby! He pushes her limits and brings her out of her shell and helps her dig through some old baggage that unexpectedly returns to her life after many years.
Crosby wakes up one day to see he’s been living someone else’s life; achieving someone else’s dreams, gaining power and status someone else wanted, marrying someone else’s girl. After taking some giant steps away from that life and leaving behind his past, he finds peace as a small-town lawyer on a secluded island. He makes lifelong friendships and a home for himself that truly satisfies his soul. When a very dear friend passes, Crosby is the lawyer handling the will that thrusts Kenna into his life. They begin a journey of friendship together that’s full of adventure and trust as he is also trying to protect Kenna from the nightmares of her past.
As Crosby and Kenna grow closer, Kenna realizes she wants more than Crosby is ready to give. Although they take some time to sort out their true feelings, they reconcile in the best way! Surprises are revealed in the middle of heartache and pain that have you fist bumping the air. I love the life these two builds for themselves.
I love this author so much, and it seems that every book I have read from her just gets me!! Seems so perfect. Catherine is just an amazing author and I would highly recommend her to anyone to read, does not matter what genre you like, she is that good.
Harriet took in Kenna when she was 11 years old. She loved her as if she was her own. She lived with Harriet in the Gables, she loved the place where she felt at peace. Enter Crosby, resident new lawyer. They seem to be the perfect fit for each other, but some one does not think so. Crosby will do whatever it takes to protect the woman he loves. He is finally ready for his happily ever after and no one was going to take that away from him.
I cannot say enough how awesome this author is. Her way with words just warm your heart. Honestly is feels like watching a hallmark movie but not as cheesy. It always leaves a warm feeling in my chest of having read a good book that stays with you.
Another great book by Catherine Cowles! Kenna and Crosby’s story was everything I hoped for and more. You could feel the chemistry between the two in Reckless Memories with the few glimpses of them we saw, and even more so in Perfect Wreckage. Kenna has made a good life for herself as an accountant but has endured so much heartbreak and loss in her life. She keeps a positive outlook in life and does everything she can to not end up like those who have let her down while keeping her heart guarded. She’s strong and independent. Crosby is a thrill seeking lawyer and loves the freedom his new life offers and the ability to come and go as he pleases, unlike his old, tied down life. He’s been hurt by love and vows to never allow that to happen again. But everything changes when he starts spending more time with Kenna, getting to know her, breaking down some of her walls. They have undeniable chemistry, great banter, and are perfect for each other. Kenna and Crosby are both sweet, caring, and have huge hearts for other people. There are so many swoony and steamy moments. These two will steal your hearts for sure!
If you haven’t checked out Reckless Memories, the first book in the series, make sure you do so!
SOMEHOW my review for this book disappeared. Sometimes I hate the intwerwebs and the crazy that they bring. SO I am here again to tell you about all the amazingness this book is. Catherine Cowles delivers a novel that brings you to the floor in tears and puts you back together little by little.
I was DYING for this book guys. I mean, weren’t you? I am in love with this group of friends and I am HERE FOR IT. Catherine doesn’t shy away from delivering the novels that touch on those emotional subjects and she does so in a way that shows the beauty and the hurt of life. I was head over for Crosby and the healing that he brings in this novel. He is such a positive soul to be with that he makes you fall even more in love with him. Watch him bring the swoon and the healing for our girl. You will love every minute of it.
5 STARS
I absolutely adore Catherine Cowles small town romances. They are heartwarming and draw you into each individuals’ journey. Crosby and Kenna’s story was exceptional. Perfect Wreckage by Catherine Cowles is an EPIC read that will join the ranks of the BIBLIO-ARISTOCRACY!!!
Perfect Wreckage is everything I love about CC’s writing. Little bit of suspense. Lots of love and romance. Complete page turner. Loved it.
I really enjoyed every Catherine’s book so theres no surprise that I doved instantly on this and devoured every page of this book. Kenna and Crosby are characters that will captured your attention right from the beginning. Though it starts with some bickering and trying to get a rise out on one another. This story was come quite emotional at times. Kenna has an issue regarding with men after a tragic moment she went through from the past. And then Crosby happened. He challenged her to go on the adventure with him. As the day goes by spending time each other they developed a deep connection between them. And when Kenna put on a difficult situation Crosby will do anything to protect her. There is more so much more to Kenna and Crosby story than I expected. They both going through some emotional struggles from the past leading them to build a wall to protect their fragile heart. This story was utterly amazing with its wonderful characters, interesting storylines and a scorchingly hot steamy scenes. And not to mention how the story ends.. ugh its perfect !! Making my heart leap with such delight. Thank you Catherine for writing this story Im so looking forward for the next one. Highly Recommended !!
QUICKLY OBSESSED WITH THIS SERIES! Growing up with an unstable home and childhood trauma, Kenna finally gets a semblance of family and stability when Harriet gains guardianship of her. Even better was that Kenna was dating her grandson, and if things continued to go the way they had been they would eventually become actual family. Things never go as planned though – after being betrayed dealing with even more loss, Kenna works to rebuild her life. Years later she has finally done that through the stability and rules she put in place for herself. But with Harriet’s ailing health, Kenna isn’t ready to deal with that change quite yet. Unfortunately, time has a mind of it’s own and her world is turned upside down with the loss of Harriet. Crosby has always had feelings for Kenna, but it takes Harriet’s death for him to finally gain some traction with her. When Kenna’s ex comes back into town and his family contesting the will, her control over her life is gone and she struggles to deal. With Crosby giving her a level of control and stability she doesn’t have at that point, they form a bond and Kenna finally lets herself open to a relationship. But when Crosby’s past comes to town and back into his life, he risks his relationship with Kenna. Thankfully things work out for the two of them and Kenna gets the HEA she so desperately needs and wants. I loved this book, much like the rest of Catherine’s books, and I can’t wait for the next installment in this series!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.