Review: Stealing Harper by Molly McAdams

Synopsis

Chase Grayson has never been interested in having a relationship that lasts longer than it takes for him and his date to get dressed again. But then he stumbles into a gray-eyed girl whose innocence pours off her, and everything changes. From the minute Harper opens her mouth to let him know just how much he disgusts her, he's hooked.

But a princess deserves a Prince Charming who can make her dreams come true. Not a guy who can turn her life into a nightmare.

All good intentions go out the window when Harper starts to fall for the guy Chase has come to view as a brother. He wanted to protect her by keeping her away, but he can’t stand to see her with anyone else, and he’ll do anything to make her his. But when it comes down to Harper choosing between the two, will Chase have the strength to step back from the girl who has become his whole world if it means she’ll be happy?

Lines will be crossed. Friendships will be put to the test. And hearts will be shattered.


4.5 Star Review

Please note:  If you have not read Taking Chances and are not aware of the story, the following review will contain spoilers.  Please read Taking Chances before reading Chase’s POV in  Stealing Harper.

We know the story…we know the characters involved…and we know how it ends.  But now we get to hear first hand from Chase how his actions and thoughts made the love triangle between him, Brandon and Harper the best angst we have ever read.

Chase and Harper meet at a college party at Chase’s house.  First impressions are made, and clearly each has not made a favorable impression.   Chase is a player and Harper unfortunately sees this more than once in the night, and Harper is naïve and looks down at Chase thus earning the nickname “Princess” from Chase.   In the beginning Chase sees Harper as a challenge and he never backs down from a challenge.  He is going to have fun capturing his next conquest.  He didn’t intend to have feelings for her, but he can’t stop thinking about her.

Brandon is a roommate of Chase’s and a “brother”.   This time around we know that Brandon repeatedly asks Chase if there is anything between Chase and Harper.  “…I’m not going to ask you again after this, you’re like a brother to me so I need to know.  Is there something going on with you and Harper?”

Because Chase knows that he is not good enough for Harper, he assures Brandon that there is nothing between him and Harper. 

“I told you, Harper’s just another girl.  She means nothing to me.” 

Chase knows that Brandon will cherish Harper and give her the things that Chase can’t.   “He was the best guy I knew, the only guy I’d trust her with.”

But Chase’s feelings change.  He wants Harper.  He can’t deny his feelings any longer.  He tries to stay away from her, but the pull is too strong.  Lines were crossed during a night of passion and because of its irreversible consequences, the “brothers” are no more. 

“You were like a brother to me…But I’m sure you can understand why I’m saying we’re done. “  -- Brandon

I was drawn in by Chase’s deep feelings for Harper and how he could voice them to his friends.  He has a constant battle with himself on where his feelings lie with Harper.  He became quite emotional at times and wasn’t afraid to show his vulnerable side while speaking with tears.  “The thought of losing Harper had tears falling down my face for the second time that morning --before that day, I couldn’t remember the last time I’d cried.”

Simply because I was Team Brandon in Taking Chances I have to include his heartbreak.  My heart ached for Brandon.  When he looked back at me, his eyes were flat and lifeless.  “You stole my entire world.”

Oh Trish, how we all loathed you in Taking Chances.  We all hold you responsible for the events leading up to the fight between Harper and Chase.  And now I feel I can add one more reason to blame you for his death. 

We all know what happens next…“Oh God.  God no, please no.”  It’s not any easier to read in Stealing Harper than it was in Taking Chances.  In fact, it might be harder because you know what is going to happen.   I re-read the last couple pages making sure that I didn’t miss a thing.  I needed to feel closure with Chase’s death.  I’m not certain that I gained closure, but I do know that I am reassured that Harper being with Brandon is what Chase would have wanted following his death  (and I’m crying now…)

“Take care of my family, brother.  Please.”
Received an advanced copy from publisher and edelweiss in exchange for an honest review. 

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