Addicted to YouAuthor: Becca Ritchie, Krista Ritchie
Series: Addicted #1
Publication Date: July 1, 2013
Format: eBook
Source: Purchased
She’s addicted to sex. He’s addicted to booze…the only way out is rock bottom.
No one would suspect shy Lily Calloway’s biggest secret. While everyone is dancing at college bars, Lily stays in the bathroom. To get laid. Her compulsion leads her to one-night stands, steamy hookups and events she shamefully regrets. The only person who knows her secret happens to have one of his own.
Loren Hale’s best friend is his bottle of bourbon. Lily comes at a close second. For three years, they’ve pretended to be in a real relationship, hiding their addictions from their families. They’ve mastered the art of concealing flasks and random guys that filter in and out of their apartment.
But as they sink beneath the weight of their addictions, they cling harder to their destructive relationship and wonder if a life together, for real, is better than a lie. Strangers and family begin to infiltrate their guarded lives, and with new challenges, they realize they may not just be addicted to alcohol and sex.
Their real vice may be each other.
Holy crap, do I ever love this book! A couple of months ago I read Kiss the Sky, not realizing that it was connected to a series until after I finished it. I loved that book so much and read it without feeling like I had missed anything, so it surprised me that these characters already had history from the Addicted series. Technically, Kiss the Sky is a spin-off that can be read separately, but of course, I needed to read Addicted to You because I love the characters so much and wanted to see where it all began.
The story is told from Lily’s POV, and her voice is so authentic and real. It feels weird to say that I love Lily and Lo together since their relationship is so unhealthy, but that’s the point. They know it’s unhealthy and that they have serious issues, but it is easy to see – to feel their love. They’ve been best friends since they were young children, eventually enabling each others addictions. Despite everything they went through together, no matter how bad things got, I was always rooting for them. I really do love them both and their connection, especially when Lo teased Lily.
I will admit that I had some misgivings when I saw the book’s main character is a sex addict, especially since it’s in the New Adult genre. I’m really impressed though, with what the authors did with the story and how they dealt with the issues. I know this is a heavy subject matter, but I didn’t feel crushingly heavy to me for two reasons: 1) I understand addiction, and it was easy for me to look at their situation from more of a clinical stand-point, and 2) I already had an idea of the turnout because I read Kiss the Sky first. So it might be heavier to others than it was for me. Again though, the authors did a fantastic job.
I was excited to get to know Lily and Lo, but I wasn’t expecting so much of the other characters. Since I read Kiss the Sky first, I already knew how certain people met and were connected, so it took any of the surprise out of it. However, it was actually a lot of fun that way; it seriously felt like I was reading a giant flash back. I felt giddy so many times when certain characters would appear or certain situations would arise because I already knew where it was heading and loved it. It was interesting to see Rose and Connor from Lily’s perspective. I declared Connor as my book-boyfriend when I read Kiss the Sky, but Ryke may pass him up. Uh-oh, I’m in a fictional love triangle!
So yes, Addicted to You has made an even bigger fan out of me. I am positively in love with the series and characters. Hell, I might even go as far as saying this will probably turn into one of my favorite series. If you are hesitant to read this because it’s NA, stop it! Just read it and see for yourself how freaking good it is.
Christy, I have read SO many positive reviews for this series that I can’t wait to read it! It sounds amazing and I follow the girls at their blog and they are lovely.
You definitely need to read it soon.
–
I wasn’t originally planning on reading this one, but now after checking-out your review, I’m torn. This sounds a-m-a-z-i-n-g! I’ve only read two New Adult books, one was really good, and one was really bad. LOL
I was resistant when it came to NA, but eventually started giving it a try. There are definitely some really bad ones out there, but there are some outstanding ones too. I think this falls under the latter category.
–
I had no idea there was a spin off either. Okay, I know any book that can make you pick up the next book (or the series before) is a must read for me. Now it looks like I need to add both of these to my ever growing TBR pile. I really should stop coming here. 😛
You should read this series, it’s friggin’ fantastic!
–
This series has been getting nothing but rave reviews throughout the blogosphere, so I think I need to finally board this train and meet the characters for myself! I have to admit the sex addict issue makes me a touch apprehensive, but I’m glad you thought it was handled well Christy. Fabulous review!
It’s REALLY good, Jenny. The sex addiction was handled very well and isn’t romanticized.
I read addicted to you by Coline Brenna and it was about a sex addict, so I keep getting these two series confused. I have kiss the sky coming up to be read later this week so I will probably do just what you did and read this series after I read that one.
Great review Christy! I am excited that you loved it so much.
I’ve never heard of that other book, but I’m willing to bet this one is better. lol. I can’t wait read Kiss the Sky!
–
Didn’t know that this was part of a series, but I like that the two books don’t have read in order. The darker books seem to really grab me and this sounds like it would a good one for me to pick up. Thanks for putting it on my radar. Great review!
It’s funny, because this doesn’t even feel that dark to me. I don’t know, you really should read it, Jenea. I’m confident that you’d like it.
–
This series is new to me, and the sex addict thing would have made me think twice,but I trust you and the “feels” you got..have me adding this to my wishlist.
Oh Kim, you MUST read this series. Must, must, must!
–
Oh love that giddy feeling. Sabrina Jeffries is like that for me when past characters show up. Totally love it.
I don’t think I would have hesitated on the sex addict part but the NA added in would totally have had me passing. But glad to hear it worked out with that. Definitely has me considering it now 🙂
That was my issue, I though because it was NA it wouldn’t address the sex addiction in a very … realistic way. You know? But man, this book impressed the hell out of me.
–
Thank you for your thoughts, Christy. I’ve always been afraid and wary of the NA genre, but I’ve seen several positive reviews for this particular book, and I am more convinced than ever that this is worth a try.
I was completely resistant of the NA genre for quite awhile, but only started getting into during the past couple of months. I’m still pretty picky and have dnf’d plenty of them. This book seriously impressed me though.
–
I’m glad you had a great time with the one. I don’t think I’ve ever read something about the topic so it’s difficult to say but maybe I should try to see how it is. thanks!
Oh it’s soooo good.
–
I have this book! I’ve had it for quite a while actually, and just never find the time to fit it in. Your “holy crap, do I ever love this book!” line is enough for me.
Thanks for the review, Christy!
Dude, Andrea … you need to read it. Make time! 😉
–
Wow, I didn’t even know about Kiss the Sky, but did this book not totally mindf**k you? I just loved it too. So different and interesting. The series gets better too with the next book. So happy you loved this one.
I get so excited going to your blog because we read a lot of the same books. 🙂
Omg, this book was so damn good! I already read Ricochet and yeah, I am beyond hooked. Kiss the Sky and Hothouse Flower are spin-off, but take place after the 2nd book. I’m hoping they will write more of those.
–
I knew you would love this one!! This is the series that I have read and I need to read the spinoff’s. But this started it all for me! I loved it and I’m glad you enjoyed Lilly and Lo’s story!! I agree that the authors did a fantastic job dealing with their addictions…. Wait til you read the next books… So good!!
Naomi @ Nomi’s Paranormal Palace
I read Ricochet already and loved it too. Even more. Yes, you so need to read Kiss the Sky before the 3rd book of this series. I’m dying to read Hothouse Flower, but wanted to read these books first.
–
I’ve read Addicted for now as well, now I need to get into the other spinoffs… hopefully soon!!
Excellent! I have this one already, but hadn’t read it yet, b/c not many bloggers I trust have reviewed it. Moving on this one immediately 😉 Great review!
This series is so good. I already read the next book and am itching to read the 3rd – technically the 2nd.
Ive heard really great things about this series I need to hurry up and add it to my TBR!!
Oh Ria, you HAVE to read this. Seriously.
–
I confess I have a total passion for unhealthy relationships, and this is so jumping on my radar, lol. I’m a total angst & dramatic romance kind of situations, and this sounds like the kind of thing I’d cry over (and therefore SO love, lol).
Great review!
I don’t usually get behind unhealthy relationships, but this is so different and so well done. I hope you give it a try.
.
I am still not convinced that this is for me. Admit it you read this just because you like that it focused on sex addicts.
Your loss, Heidi! Haha – I admit nothing! Seriously though, it’s not like THAT. I was surprised at the lack of actual sex there was.
–
This is one that I would have passed on if it wasn’t for this review. I’m usually not about the drama, but I admit that sometimes if it is well done it can be good. Hm… will have to check out this series.
I feel the drama was done so well, that it didn’t really feel that dramatic. Does that make sense? It was executed perfectly.
.
I’m so glad to hear you loved this, and that it handled serious addictions in a smart way. I’ve heard raves from trusted bloggers about this series, and of course your praise for Kiss the Sky, and now I really am out of excuses, I just need to read them! “Uh-oh, I’m in a fictional love triangle!” <–LOVE 😀 Great review!
That’s right, no more excuses! Read it! 😀
.
I am not even over exaggerating here i’ve probably read like six or seven really good reviews for this book (and there’s a sequel right? i don’t want to put my foot in my mouth in case there isn’t but i swear there is and i’ve seen reviews for it too!) LOL but anyways i know i need to start reading this book (or maybe series LOL) because everyone has good things to say about it!
Great review!
Lily @ Lilysbookblog
There are 3 books out right now in the Addicted series, 2 in the spin-off that are also part of this one. Two more are currently in the works. This series is so good!
hum might have to give this one another shot… kind of gave up on it.
Annnnnd another one for the TBR. Keep ’em coming, Christy! Love it!
I love when a story feels authentic and real! This sounds like such a great series! It’s great that Lily and Lo had such a strong connection! Wonderful Review 🙂
I’m posting the audiobook review, oh boy! what a ride! I came to get link since you’re the reason I listened and I’m already almost done with the next book 🙂
Yay! I hate to say anything ill of this series since I love it so much, but shhh … I can’t stand the narrator for the audio. She takes annoying breaths every time she says something.
Oh 🙁 I really enjoyed the narration. And believe nothing bothers me more that, and I failed to notice on her reading… She’s not new to me, so I knew I enjoy her work. too bad she didn’t work for you 🙁
Well, mouth noises and breathing is one of those things that get under my skin. So I any little bit grates on me big time. lol – it’s another reason audios don’t always work for me. I’m so glad it worked for you though. I can’t wait to read your review.