As you may know, I'll read anything that L.J. Shen writes, shoot, she could make a picture book and I'd be all over that. Dirty Headlines is her newest release and one that so many were highly-anticipating, like me! I hate to say it, it didn't rank as my top favorite as it seems nearly impossible to beat out my faves Vicious and Alex. And I know I don't sit alone when say Vicious is a tough one to beat out. But my goodness, what an absolutely hot and steamy read this turned out to be. The fierce drive behind Jude and her spitfire tongue is a complete match to the force that is Célian Laurent!
L.J. is notorious for writing heroes or well anti-heroes that we absolutely loveeeee to hate and just love all over again. You'll never know what it means to constantly change your mind about someone until you read about her heroes. They're definitely a force to be reckoned with. It's nearly impossible to not sense when Célian is around. He's one of those guys that just oozes sex appeal and he has the dirtiest mouth of them all. And he's so darn blunt when it comes Jude and all the things he intends to do with her. H-O-T! When I look across the board of all the heroes Shen has written, his softer side shows rather easily, which I found surprising. I think that's what threw me for a loop when it came to his character. I guess I prefer the asshole, through and through ;-)
Jude! What's not to love about her?! She's a force of her own and clearly, Célian was enamored with her. I absolutely loved all the times she'd stand up to him and give him a piece of his own medicine. She didn't fear Célian at all, plus she never backed down. Besides all that, I loved her utmost devotion to her father and everything she'd willingly do for him, even if it wasn't always the best decision. Her intentions were always pure. Plus, I appreciate a girl who wears those Chucks with pride and I am completely envious of her collection. I still rock the pair that I've had since sophomore year of high school.
Even though I've created high standards for Shen's characters (totally your fault, L.J. ;-) ) and Célian wasn't exactly my fave, but I still devoured this book like none other. Jude was what made this book for me! Definitely enjoyed Dirty Headlines and I'll be looking forward to Shen's next release!