Book Jacket

 

rank 288 (-15)
word count 82490
date submitted 06.12.2009
date updated 24.08.2010
genres: Literary Fiction, Chick Lit, Romanc...
classification: moderate
incomplete

Reckless Scarlett

Elisa Williams

 

Scarlett's boyfriend is nice. Really. Still, she avoids his marriage proposal in favor of something or someone more reckless?

 

When David drops to one knee to finally propose marriage, Scarlett... hesitates. Her hesitation is immediately followed by a slip, fall, and assault by a garden gnome, which gives her an excuse to postpone making a decision. The next morning she wakes with the ring on her finger and no memory of accepting the proposal.

David is a nice, stable guy. There is absolutely nothing wrong with him, really. Scarlett always expected to marry him. But now she's there's doubt. Maybe a life with David isn't what she wants. Maybe it is. And maybe he isn't as nice as she thought.

In the meantime, she is unemployed, unengaged and unsure about her future. Maybe playing it safe isn't safe after all. Enter Jackson Hayes, the brother of her new neighbor, who always seems to be sitting on Scarlett’s porch. He might be a nice guy and he might be dangerous. Either way, he inspires her to do uncharacteristic things.

The more she discovers her ability to take risks the more she thinks Jackson may be the one risk she can't resist.

 
 

tags

, chick lit, fiction, happy, love, relationships, romance

on 14 bookshelves

on 37 watchlists

191 comments

 

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Elizabeth Wolfe wrote 2 days ago

Dear Elisa,
Your opening chapter is so realistic (except for the gnome!) Especially the shoes that seemed like a good idea only a few hours before. How once you get something, you don't want it anymore. The way people get married just because everyone else is, or it seems like the thing to do. Everything you've written in the chapter seems so modern and real. Well, maybe the doctor gives better advice than most!

BACKED
Elizabeth Wolfe (MEMORIES OF GLORY)

Daniel Manning wrote 5 days ago

Scarletts clumsiness makes her think the worse of people, and jump to all the wrong conclusions in a story that expores the love triangle between married and unmarried couples. Scarlett has split with David and finds Jack attractive. Lindsay bored and wants a baby but husband Bobby isn't keen, so maybe she'll turn to someone else because her biological clock is ticking.
From high school to college, to jobs and careers, the interconnecting paths seem to follow, but who are the main protagonists, Jack for missing Scartlett during their school days together, or Scarlett for dumping David the day after he proposed. Lolly seems to have the best instincts, on who should be with who.
Nicely written though chapter three coincides with chapter four, and chapter five coincides with chapter six, though I'm sure you are aware of it.
Backed with pleasure
Daniel Manning
No Compatibility.

Daniel Manning wrote 5 days ago

Scarletts clumsiness makes her think the worse of people, and jump to all the wrong conclusions in a story that expores the love triangle between married and unmarried couples. Scarlett has split with David and finds Jack attractive. Lindsay bored and wants a baby but husband Bobby isn't keen, so maybe she'll turn to someone else because her biological clock is ticking.
From high school to college, to jobs and careers, the interconnecting paths seem to follow, but who are the main protagonists, Jack for missing Scartlett during their school days together, or Scarlett for dumping David the day after he proposed. Lolly seems to have the best instincts, on who should be with who.
Nicely written though chapter three coincides with chapter four, and chapter five coincides with chapter six, though I'm sure you aware of it.
Backed with pleasure
Daniel Manning
No Compatibility.

Eunice Attwood wrote 9 days ago

Oh boy - How I can relate to the first chapter - minus the gnome attack. Well written and very plausible. Backed with pleasure. Eunice - The Temple Dancer.

Wezzle wrote 14 days ago

This made me laugh out loud. I'm not a chick lit fan but this I actually like this!

rab14 wrote 14 days ago

Godfrey's timely intervention gives Scarlett the opportunity to back away from David's proposal even if not quite with the dignity intact. I like the way you write and wish you well with this. K.J.

CarolinaAl wrote 28 days ago

An engaging story with colorful characters. Wonderful imagery. Sparkling dialogue. Spot on storytelling. Backed.

Katy Christie wrote 30 days ago

Your writing has a very natural style, in particular the dialogue, and this story flows well. I've only read the first chapter but I thoroughly enjoyed it.
Katy Christie
No Man No Cry

Eveleen wrote 30 days ago

Reckless Scarlett
Backed with pleasure
Eveleen
(Turning an new leaf)

Mrs Ameila O wrote 30 days ago

Was it a gnome or a lucky leprechaun. Daqvid sounds a bit creepy to me fancy sliding a ring on her finger when shes asleep. This is a really good idea for a book and you deliver it well. I am sureit willdo well for you as its quirkliy different.
Amelia

A Date In The Diary

Name failed moderation wrote 31 days ago

Dear Elisa
your long pitch was the thing that grabbed and the book cover is so out there and i loved it thef irst time around and then the second as well. Yes i have commented and backed your book, however cannot find the backing so will do it again, because it is WORTH IT
the VERY best of luck
If you have not already , please comment on my book and BACK it if not that is OK also
Denise
The Letter

Walden Carrington wrote 31 days ago

Elisa,
In Reckless Scarlet, you find an unusual combination of romance and fantasy sure to delight readers of both genres. Backed.

T. L. Bartush wrote 36 days ago

This is good stuff - perfect for the genre - simple - your lead is a treat. Keep at it. I'll back it.

T.L. Bartush
Bleak House Bleak Shed

Wilma1 wrote 37 days ago

I liked the pitch but found a silly nit- (But now she’s there’s doubt) easy to put right. I really like the story and the idea behind it. You made David appear unattractive so we were all with her not wanting to be engaged to him. I like the idea he slipped the ring on while she was asleep he obviously isn’t as confident as he makes out, that she would say yes. I read two chapters and would have read more time permitting. A nice book to stuff in your holiday bag


Wilma1

Knowing Liam Riley – I hope you have a moment to look


matt.thomas wrote 38 days ago

I'm enjoying the story so far, and I think it's one that both men and women will be able to relate to. However, I think there's also a bit too much dialogue. Not that you should cut any of it, but I want to learn more about the character and would like to some more descriptions that yield deeper characterizations. On the shelf. . .

-Matt Thomas

senyah nala wrote 38 days ago

Well written; enjoyable reading. Loved the way you described Scarlett's feelings.

Not sure why the doctor suddenly turned counsellor, but it was good reading.

Your book should do well. It certainly has my backing.

senyah nala wrote 38 days ago

Well written; enjoyable reading. Loved the way you described Scarlett's feelings.

Not sure why the doctor suddenly turned counsellor, but it was good reading.

Your book should do well. It certainly has my backing.

nsllee wrote 38 days ago

Hi Elisa

This is a lovely summertime romance read, nothing too radically different about it, just likeable believable characters, a well-drawn setting and natural dialogue. Backed.

Nicole (Chosen)

Bocri wrote 39 days ago

25 July 2010
Reckless Scarlett has an adept writing style that is specifically light in nature but contains shrewdly perceptive prose describing Scarlett's real feeling, or lack of warmth, for David, making us aware that he might not still be standing, or even present, in the final chapter. I was particularly taken with the passage detailing her 'bad hair' interview day and acquisition of the 'phantom' poundage. We've all had one of those days. BACKED. Robert Davidson. The Tuzla Run.

Name failed moderation wrote 39 days ago

Dear elisa
love the book cover obsessed with gnomes
in the first place, and loved the pitch, the long one. I have already commented and backed your book a while ago, but cannot see the backing anywhere. So i am taking the time to back it again because I believe your book is WORTH IT

BEST OF LUCK

EltopiaAuthor wrote 40 days ago

Well written. Macho-type guys be advised, the first chapter at least indicates a story about relationships. Nothing wrong with that, and the author sets up an interesting scenario, foreshadowing troubles to come as the main character anticipates the imminent marriage proposal. Oh, and long live UCSC with its mascot-slugs!

F. Ellsworth Lockwood
"The Final Cruise"

Robin Pearson wrote 41 days ago

Hi Elisa

This is very well written: your characters are solid, Scarlett is believable and likeable, and you have a wickedly dry sense of humour!

Excellent stuff and backed with pleasure

Robin
The Way Through the Woods

beegirl wrote 42 days ago

This begins in such a charming way. I am really enjoying this book.
Thank you for the great read.
Barbara

beegirl wrote 42 days ago

This begins in such a charmgin way. I am really enjoying this book.
Thank you for the great read.
Barbara

M. A. McRae. wrote 42 days ago

You have a story, and you write well enough to keep the reader with you. Enjoyable read, and a great book-cover. Backed, Marj.

britneyjmartin wrote 42 days ago

Hilarious cover :) I loved the first chapter too!

Best of luck
Marissa

A Knight wrote 45 days ago

As everyone has said, the gnome's a nice touch, but what I liked the most is how you foster instant doubt in David's suitability for Scarlett. Everything from their clear difference in taste to that proposal "Marry me. Be my wife" - talk about demanding, had me narrowing my eyes at the man.

I'll certainly be back for more,but in the mean time, this is on my shelf!

Abi xxx

Cariad wrote 46 days ago

Haha. I knew there was a reason for that gnome on the cover. I loved her practical musings on marriage and his bloodless practicality. I love Godfrey. Unusual, made me laugh and enjoy chic lit (which I don't, as a rule.)
Watchlisting as I'm MEANT to be packing to go away next week, but there's just too much good reading on here. Will comment properly and back on my return.
Polly
'STONES'

Su Dan wrote 48 days ago

this book has a good feel to it. lt is written well, and l will put it on my watchlist...
read SEASONS...

Johanna Kern wrote 51 days ago

Elisa,

You truly know how to keep your readers on their toes! Beautifully crafted, engaging story - and such a superb writing!

Heartfelt and entertaining.

Back with the utmost pleasure.

Johanna Kern
Master and the Green-Eyed Hope

Tom Bye wrote 52 days ago

hi elisa'
liked the pitch and the suspense at the end .will Jackson Hayes be the one
im' now a romantic reading these easy going books and enjoying them'
full of things lighthearted and comedy, takes away the stress
this will be published and make good holiday reading
TOM BYE ' FROM HUGS TO KISSES'

PATRICK BARRETT wrote 54 days ago

My husband writes comedy and you seem to have the same casual touch. Your humour is subtle and the book is very hard to put down. Well done. Paula Barrett (Cuthbert-how mean is my valley)

k.j. fletcher wrote 56 days ago

I was drawn into this from the start and felt Scarlett had a mild touch of the Briget Jones about her.
Loved the attack by the gnome too

k.j. fletcher
Grave Detective

KirstyCrees wrote 59 days ago

I find the dialogue and story line to be very engaging. I love that the whole instance is caused by a garden gnome. I did notice the second paragraph of your snippet, was worded strangley... you might want to review. Also in the story where she tastes blood, i idnt feel the sentence worked very well. Other than that i found this to be a smooth, fast-paced read.
Congrats!
Kirsty
Prygon: The Circle of Dark Magic

andrew skaife wrote 60 days ago

Well, I really have nothing to say. What I want to say is that it's crap and does not deserve to be read! What I have to say is the exact opposite. Your hold on comedy is sublime and you have an imagination that makes me growl. Let's start:

"He loved to make a short story long." It is class, it is simple, it is genius. I hate you.

"Scarlett, when we first met, I knew you were , well uncommon," he said. That is deadpan glory. I became Scarlett for a moment and would have ripped his tongue out.

You have perfect timing for comedy. I'm not envious but jealousy chased me up the garden when I read this.

"She tried to answer. She knew the answer. Didn't she?" Oh My God!

Then the gnome? Godfrey? Genius.

Tom Sharpe has a rival.

I spit at your feet! Where I will have to kneel if I want your comedy to bounce off onto my head.

Seriously. Some comedy works in print and some in visuals but I honestly feel that this would work on screen, on stage, in print and radio.

You have a serious talent and I hope that it is noticed. Not before my offering obviously because I would need the head start but you can't blame me for handicapping you, can you.

Excellent. Good luck (although you don't need it you bastard!) Cheers.

Oh, yeah, backed ( a bit, not too much because that would just be rubbing salt in my wounds , but a little backed, about half a gnome's way of backing.)

ar_cummings wrote 60 days ago

Great opening. Love the gnome.

Andrew Burans wrote 61 days ago

I really like the way you built the character of Scarlet. You show her insecurities and trepidations all painted with a delicious touch of humour. You have crafted well all of the elements that make a great romance novel. Your descriptive writing makes your work a pleasure to read. Backed.

Andrew Burans
The Reluctant Warrior: The Beginning

ajmahler wrote 62 days ago

Love the first chapter. This has the right mix of conflict and opportunity. The dialog flows nicely. I will be back to read more.

"he's a good guys" should it be guy singular?

Gnomes, you never can tell.

A J Mahler
Smoking Kills

teremoto wrote 64 days ago

An awkward proposal interruptus, nicely drawn out and dripping with anxiety. The soap continues to ooze as our femme fatale goes with her gut - wayward and onward to redefine romance.

Iberian Bird wrote 64 days ago

HI Elisa. This has a great start and is exactly the kind of thing I would pick up and buy in a book store. Your work flows effortlessly and is really easy to get into. I've only read the first two chapters but I will return for more later. I can see you getting published, for sure! Good luck!
Backed, with pleasure.
Best wishes
Suzy (Raven)

Jenny-B wrote 65 days ago

Hi Elisa,

I just started reading your book and it's fabulous. Your writing style is particularly easy to read - which I know is not an easy thing to achieve. You draw the reader in using humour, wit and just enough suspense to keep his/her interest. If I have time, I will read more later. As for now - backed with pleasure.

Jenny
Remember Newvember

Stec wrote 65 days ago

I thought I was going to hate this but I really didn't. Great gag getting hit/hitting a gnome on the head in the middle of your dreamed about moment. Some great lines--if I break up with David I'll have to start dating again--Do I know that feeling! I also loved the fact she wanted a beer really not wine and you tie this in wonderfully with the last lineof the chapter.
It's women like Scarlett that make us men A) Shit scared and B) crazy about women.

Backed.

Steve

Natalie Jones wrote 66 days ago

Very nice opening sequence. I really feel bad for the dumping good ole David is about to recieve. As the saying goes, nice guys always finish last.

" . . . just beause he's a good guys (guy) . . ."

Backed and good luck
Natalie

Jayne Lind wrote 66 days ago

Great opening - as a reader I want to know what happens to Scarlett. Good luck with this. Jayne

MyffyB wrote 67 days ago

Hi Elisa - you asked for some comments from me so here goes (and I don't usually because I am so very very selfish). Some great comedy moments here and I can easily relate to your heroine. But I think it would be a lot funnier and faster if you edited out a few repetitions. Also - show don't tell works so much better than tellling the reader what someone is thinking. Compare and contrast: - 'she felt embarrassed and she really hated that man for what he had done to her.' Take 2 - 'Heat rushed up to her cheeks. That horrible, horrible man." The difference is that in the 2nd instance the reader is feeling it and not being told by the author what the protagonist is feeling so they are right in with the action and not gettng it second hand. So in summary, and who am I to talk because you are doing a hell of a lot better than me on this site,, but in summary I would edit out quite a lot of the explanations and repetitions and go back and show don't tell wherever you can. I really like your protagonist and I really think you have a feel for the absurd and can portray the female pov extremely well so go for it. I hope you find my comments okay. I'll be worried now. This is another reason I don't comment in case people start to hate me and a hate campaign begins on the site and ......stop, mustn't go there. I wish you all the best, Kindest regards, Sarah E

Despinas1 wrote 67 days ago

Brilliant. Backed
Helen
The Last Dream

Mooderino wrote 67 days ago

In terms of the writing it's a very polished piece, reads well and has a good pace to it.

The story starts out with a pretty basic set up, but you do a great job of adding character without being obvious, from him not knowing she doesn't like wine and naming his gnome, to her damning him with faint praise. Some nice comic touches too.

An accomplished and enjoyable story. backed.

Marija F.Sullivan wrote 68 days ago

This is in so many ways my cup of tea. I have read the opening chapters and really enjoyed them. I have no doubt that this romance will soon top the charts.
Best wishes,
M
- Weekend Chimney Sweep
- Sarajevo Walls of Fate

delhui wrote 68 days ago

Dear Elisa --

Scarlett (like other Scarlett's we've known & loved) is an epic character, confronting her essential ambiguity about David -- but that's such a reflection of her ambiguity about all aspects of her life. We read several chapters and then skimmed through several more to get a feel for her, and with all that you've uploaded here, it's clear that Scarlett is on a journey not just to the right man, but to discovery of herself. We enjoyed the character arc, and we look forward to finding out how her journey ends. BACKED. -- Delhui, The Long Black Veil

mvw888 wrote 69 days ago

Yikes, your David...what a prig. I hope that the blow to the head has brought Scarlett to her senses. A charming beginning with a truly unique twist. A wonderful pace and voice for a chick/lit or romance. I think that many will be interested in Scarlett's eventual choice and the life lessons that Scarlett is due to receive. An engaging book.

---Mary
The Qualities of Wood