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When I See You
She believes that love can never last, promises are usually broken, and true happiness is extremely elusive in the long run. He believes most risks are worth taking, the promises he makes can be kept, and love doesn't factor in his relationships any longer. They're both wrong.
Jordan Holloway has never fully recovered from the unexpected deaths of her famous Hollywood parents. At 27, she is still slow to trust and remains uncertain about the true duration of love and happiness. Yet, it's been four years since she fell in love with Ethan when he rocked her world even as he marched off to war leaving her alone with their young son Max. Now, Ethan tells her this will be his last tour in Afghanistan and that soon the three of them will be together. Still anxious at his leaving again, Jordan extracts a promise for Ethan's safe return from Brock Wainwright, her husband's sniper partner and best friend. But, can she put all her trust in Brock and can he keep such a promise?
At 29, Brock Wainwright fully embraces the dangerous life of a Navy Seal. He enjoys his freedom and not being committed to anyone; and, there's been a long line of women who can attest to that. Everything changes for Brock after he meets Jordan. When the two men return to Afghanistan, Brock's intent on keeping his promise to Jordan about keeping Ethan safe for a variety of reasons, including the most disturbing one of all, he is more than just attracted to his best friend's wife. This revelation plagues Brock on the battlefield and in a violent moment changes everything.
If you enjoy Nicholas Sparks' The Lucky One or Dear John and the twists and turns of storylines like those of Jodi Picoult, you've got to read When I See You.
Jordan Holloway has never fully recovered from the unexpected deaths of her famous Hollywood parents. At 27, she is still slow to trust and remains uncertain about the true duration of love and happiness. Yet, it's been four years since she fell in love with Ethan when he rocked her world even as he marched off to war leaving her alone with their young son Max. Now, Ethan tells her this will be his last tour in Afghanistan and that soon the three of them will be together. Still anxious at his leaving again, Jordan extracts a promise for Ethan's safe return from Brock Wainwright, her husband's sniper partner and best friend. But, can she put all her trust in Brock and can he keep such a promise?
At 29, Brock Wainwright fully embraces the dangerous life of a Navy Seal. He enjoys his freedom and not being committed to anyone; and, there's been a long line of women who can attest to that. Everything changes for Brock after he meets Jordan. When the two men return to Afghanistan, Brock's intent on keeping his promise to Jordan about keeping Ethan safe for a variety of reasons, including the most disturbing one of all, he is more than just attracted to his best friend's wife. This revelation plagues Brock on the battlefield and in a violent moment changes everything.
If you enjoy Nicholas Sparks' The Lucky One or Dear John and the twists and turns of storylines like those of Jodi Picoult, you've got to read When I See You.
336 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 20, 2011
93 people are currently reading
1570 people want to read
About the author
Katherine Owen
15 books585 followersAuthor of the bestselling Truth In Lies series including This Much Is True, The Truth About Air & Water and Tell Me Something True.
Visit www.katherineowen.net to join Owen's new releases email list/newsletter and never miss an announcement about her newest novel releases or book updates and giveaways. Or, sign up directly at http://bit.ly/KOnewsletter.
Onward...
When asked to describe...
Dark. Edgy. Contemporary. Romantic.
Were we describing me? Or my fiction? Sorry. I drink too much...coffee, not enough water.
I swear too much for God and my mother, and I slip these into my fiction. Sorry.
I'm impatient, a perfectionist, a wordsmith, a dreamer, which ends up being good and bad. I'm always writing, just ask my family.
I've written seven novels: Seeing Julia, Not To Us, When I See You, as well as the Truth In Lies series (new adult fiction) including This Much Is True, The Truth About Air & Water and Tell Me Something True. My latest release is The Image Maker in the Hollywood Hearts series. Just released!
If you love angsty, unpredictable love stories, I'm yours. ♥
I'd love to hear from you here or connect with me on Facebook.
Here are my websites: www.katherineowen.net OR www.katherineowenwrites.com for links to books, reviews, my blog, Tumblr, and Pinterest.
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Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 29 of 177 reviews
September 8, 2013
6 "painful, heart stopping, yelling at my kindle" stars
This is my 2nd Katherine Owen book. She gutted me like a fucking fish AGAIN!!!!!. I knew going into this that it was going to be an emotional ride, but i thought to myself, this can't be as bad as This much is true right? WRONG!!! FUCKING WRONG!!!!! This book tore me apart, limb from limb, i have nothing left to give.
The problem here is that she writes so beautifully, that even though you think you know what is coming and you think you're prepared, you still get hit by a fucking train.
BAM!*SMACK**$%#BOOM@!($&
I feel like she bitch slapped, hugged me, ovary punched me, let me cry on her shoulder, almost stabbed me a million times and now she is my best friend.
I yelled, yes yelled at my kindle. The hubby was like "what, what did i do now?" im like fuck off its not always about you. This is about Jordan and Brock and how can they do this? he's like wait who are they? im like shut up really you have no clue what im feeling right now do you. (true story)
i had to take a break, step away, recollect my thoughts.
i then get a message from the Ms.Owens, that said to keep going. I was like Fuck you. I cant. but i did and stayed up way to late to finish.
and it was beautiful.
Totally putting myself threw this. I mean what can I say I'm a sick fucked up women
June 7, 2012
this book is not a fast pace 'on the edge of your seat' mystery, not an erotica, no vampires or make believe animals this book. its simply an emotional roller coaster that i highly recommend to everyone.
i have never read a book or watch something on tv that made me feel so many things that i hoped i would never feel.... odd i know .lol. you just have to read the book to understand.
i cried so hard straight though the first 28% of the book. of course there were many more tears throughout the read.
i appreciate that the feelings werent described using over detailed description or using unrealistic words in the situations.
the wording of the character's feelings were freakishly realistic. it was impossible to not feel the words in my own heart.
i like a lot of books so many of my ratings get a 4. but i am very critical as to what i love enough to give a 5 start and im so happy that this book is one that will actually get a 5 star.
the author just gained herself another fan!
i have never read a book or watch something on tv that made me feel so many things that i hoped i would never feel.... odd i know .lol. you just have to read the book to understand.
i cried so hard straight though the first 28% of the book. of course there were many more tears throughout the read.
i appreciate that the feelings werent described using over detailed description or using unrealistic words in the situations.
the wording of the character's feelings were freakishly realistic. it was impossible to not feel the words in my own heart.
i like a lot of books so many of my ratings get a 4. but i am very critical as to what i love enough to give a 5 start and im so happy that this book is one that will actually get a 5 star.
the author just gained herself another fan!
Want to read
September 8, 2013Holy shit. I might actually stop and drop everything I'm reading now to read this one. Plus other readers are going on about how emotionally painful it is to read...my type of book! <3 <3
May 12, 2013
Jordan is the daughter of two famous actors who were tragically murdered when she was 17 years old. From then on she suffered from terrible abandonment issues. Years later she meets Ethan they have a whirlwind romance where they get married and pregnant within 8 weeks, then she finds out he is a navy SEAL and is going back to Afghanistan. The book begins three years after this. Ethan is home getting ready to go back for his last tour, his best friend and sniper partner Brock is staying with them. During this weeks stay she forms a deep connection with Brock, he is able to see the parts of her that Ethan refuses to see. However she loves Ethan deeply, before they go she makes Brock promise to bring him back to her and their son Max.
I am lucky enough not to have suffered much grief in my life, my inability to relate to the amount of loss and devastation in this book made it hard.
Jordan is such a strong woman, she went from having it all to nothing. You can't help but wonder how she get up in the morning, but she manages to come out the other side stronger. Brock is a great guy, he makes a few mistakes (one huge one) but in the end makes up for it.
Her love for Ethan in the beginning was so sweet but you can't help but wonder if she is truly happy, she seems like a person who needs constant love and affection in her life to feel happy so the long separations must be torture for her. Out of 1428 days marriage they had only spent 297 of them together.
I won't give spoilers but from then on you will need a box of tissues because just when you think it is going to be ok, something happens.
The writing is great, you can feel the emotions on the page and you genuinely care about the characters. There are some laughs and sex (not described) It boils down to a story of two amazing people surviving, coming out the other end stronger and finding love.
"My answer is you. I want you. I'm sure of only you." I smile wide. "And you kept your promise," I say with a laugh.
I am lucky enough not to have suffered much grief in my life, my inability to relate to the amount of loss and devastation in this book made it hard.
Jordan is such a strong woman, she went from having it all to nothing. You can't help but wonder how she get up in the morning, but she manages to come out the other side stronger. Brock is a great guy, he makes a few mistakes (one huge one) but in the end makes up for it.
Her love for Ethan in the beginning was so sweet but you can't help but wonder if she is truly happy, she seems like a person who needs constant love and affection in her life to feel happy so the long separations must be torture for her. Out of 1428 days marriage they had only spent 297 of them together.
I won't give spoilers but from then on you will need a box of tissues because just when you think it is going to be ok, something happens.
The writing is great, you can feel the emotions on the page and you genuinely care about the characters. There are some laughs and sex (not described) It boils down to a story of two amazing people surviving, coming out the other end stronger and finding love.
"My answer is you. I want you. I'm sure of only you." I smile wide. "And you kept your promise," I say with a laugh.
March 7, 2013
The first thing I said after I finished reading this book was, "That was a great book." I swear, I went through every emotion possible while reading. I knew going into this book that it wouldn't be a heart and flowers type of story. When I See You is emotionally charged and I felt every single moment.
We meet Jordan as she and her husband are getting ready to say goodbye, yet again. Her husband, Ethan, is a Navy SEAL Sniper and is heading out for another tour. His partner and childhood best friend, Brock, is also there to finally meet Jordan. Something about the energy that surrounds this group just feels off. Brock is somewhat captivated by Jordan. Even though it's the first time they meet, he's read her letters to Ethan, hears stories about her and her son, and has formed an attachment to her in a way. But, when he meets her for the first time in person, he really sees her. He sees her in a way that Ethan never did. Jordan is a wounded person. She has protected her heart after the loss of her parents. It's not easy for her to let people in. After a devastating turn of events, her life changes yet again and she's not sure if she can recover.
As the story moves on, we see Jordan and Brock become closer. While they each have a tragic story to tell, they find solace in each other. It takes time, but they do learn to trust each other and their feelings. But, as they once again face a devastating loss, their relationship is tested. They both run from what is happening and cope in their own way. It was truly heartbreaking to see. However, in the end, they come back together.
Overall, I really loved this book. Jordan and Brock broke my heart, but put it back together. The love these two share for each other is real. It's been a while that I've read a book that's affected me so strongly. I cried more than once, but I also felt the joy that Jordan and Brock ultimately found with each other. When I See You was beautifully written and certainly won't be the last Katherine Owen book I read. I definitely recommend it.
Quotes:
~Here's what I know so far about today. I don't have anything to wear in Texas. I should have gotten a manicure instead of the bikini wax. I came to these conclusions about an hour ago.-pg 129
~"You asked me what I wanted," I finally say. "I heard you."
"You did?" Brock asks.
"My answer is you. I want you. I'm sure of only you." I smile wide. "And you kept your promise," I say with a laugh.
And that's when he starts to cry. -pg 322
We meet Jordan as she and her husband are getting ready to say goodbye, yet again. Her husband, Ethan, is a Navy SEAL Sniper and is heading out for another tour. His partner and childhood best friend, Brock, is also there to finally meet Jordan. Something about the energy that surrounds this group just feels off. Brock is somewhat captivated by Jordan. Even though it's the first time they meet, he's read her letters to Ethan, hears stories about her and her son, and has formed an attachment to her in a way. But, when he meets her for the first time in person, he really sees her. He sees her in a way that Ethan never did. Jordan is a wounded person. She has protected her heart after the loss of her parents. It's not easy for her to let people in. After a devastating turn of events, her life changes yet again and she's not sure if she can recover.
As the story moves on, we see Jordan and Brock become closer. While they each have a tragic story to tell, they find solace in each other. It takes time, but they do learn to trust each other and their feelings. But, as they once again face a devastating loss, their relationship is tested. They both run from what is happening and cope in their own way. It was truly heartbreaking to see. However, in the end, they come back together.
Overall, I really loved this book. Jordan and Brock broke my heart, but put it back together. The love these two share for each other is real. It's been a while that I've read a book that's affected me so strongly. I cried more than once, but I also felt the joy that Jordan and Brock ultimately found with each other. When I See You was beautifully written and certainly won't be the last Katherine Owen book I read. I definitely recommend it.
Quotes:
~Here's what I know so far about today. I don't have anything to wear in Texas. I should have gotten a manicure instead of the bikini wax. I came to these conclusions about an hour ago.-pg 129
~"You asked me what I wanted," I finally say. "I heard you."
"You did?" Brock asks.
"My answer is you. I want you. I'm sure of only you." I smile wide. "And you kept your promise," I say with a laugh.
And that's when he starts to cry. -pg 322
August 21, 2012
All i wanna say is "before you start reading keep boxes of tissues by your side" I cried so much while reading this one,this one shook me.
Want to read
October 18, 2013*AMAZON SALE* $.99 $3.99
10/18/13
http://www.amazon.com/When-See-You-Ka...
10/18/13
http://www.amazon.com/When-See-You-Ka...
July 28, 2016
3.5 Stars!
January 8, 2013
A lot happens in a year, both good things and bad things. For me, the past year was filled with events exactly like that. I fortified friendships with some of the most amazing women I have ever known. My daughter turned 18, the age of an adult and have started applying to colleges. My Dad was diagnosed with stage IV cancer. My brother returned from Afghanistan and our relationship has grown into something better than it was when we were children. I’ve had more guests sleep in my guest room than I’ve had in the past ten years. I lost my job and found an even better one. Through it all, my best friend and husband has stood by my side. Just like the past year for me, a lot happens in the life of Jordan and Brock in the book, “When I see you” by Katherine Owen.
Jordan’s husband Ethan is shipped off to Iraq, serving as a sniper as a Navy SEAL with his best childhood friend, Brock. The story is told as a two person POV, alternating between Jordan and Brock. Jordan is a wife and mother, a chef. Jordan is beautiful but tragic. She struggles to have faith in other people. Brock is a soldier and best friend. Brock is naturally quiet and has a good heart but has suffered tragedy like Jordan. Don’t worry readers, this isn’t a cheating story. This is, however, a story of developing love and moving through trauma that will eventually reach a happily ever after.
This is a story that is going to stand out for me in my memory for a very long time. Owen has written this book very well. The story is magically woven with and drew me in from the start. This isn’t a fluffy romance. This isn’t the book that makes your panties bunch and the steam factor is off the scale. This is a realistic love story, one that doesn’t necessarily paint the characters as fabricated. I am surprised that this story hasn’t received more praise and has not left a dent in the world. When I compare some of the books I’ve enjoyed to this, I have to shake my head. I enjoy reading for entertainment and sometimes value fluff and sugar to keep me happy. This isn’t that kind of book. This is a story that will make you feel anxiety, make you feel sad, make you hope that they find a happily ever after. This is a book that grows hair on your chest and makes you look at your life. This is synonymous with this website’s name, it is a GoodRead.
I know I have a small friend base here on GoodReads being new. But I hope the friends that I have here on the website read my review and consider this book. The content is heavy, so this book should be approached as such. I think you’ll love it like I did.
Jordan’s husband Ethan is shipped off to Iraq, serving as a sniper as a Navy SEAL with his best childhood friend, Brock. The story is told as a two person POV, alternating between Jordan and Brock. Jordan is a wife and mother, a chef. Jordan is beautiful but tragic. She struggles to have faith in other people. Brock is a soldier and best friend. Brock is naturally quiet and has a good heart but has suffered tragedy like Jordan. Don’t worry readers, this isn’t a cheating story. This is, however, a story of developing love and moving through trauma that will eventually reach a happily ever after.
This is a story that is going to stand out for me in my memory for a very long time. Owen has written this book very well. The story is magically woven with and drew me in from the start. This isn’t a fluffy romance. This isn’t the book that makes your panties bunch and the steam factor is off the scale. This is a realistic love story, one that doesn’t necessarily paint the characters as fabricated. I am surprised that this story hasn’t received more praise and has not left a dent in the world. When I compare some of the books I’ve enjoyed to this, I have to shake my head. I enjoy reading for entertainment and sometimes value fluff and sugar to keep me happy. This isn’t that kind of book. This is a story that will make you feel anxiety, make you feel sad, make you hope that they find a happily ever after. This is a book that grows hair on your chest and makes you look at your life. This is synonymous with this website’s name, it is a GoodRead.
I know I have a small friend base here on GoodReads being new. But I hope the friends that I have here on the website read my review and consider this book. The content is heavy, so this book should be approached as such. I think you’ll love it like I did.
December 22, 2014
I loved the book! The only reason I am giving it 4 stars is due to my selfish reasons of wanting more. I would of loved if there would have been an epilogue, to give us a glimpse of life in Texas with their baby girl. I feel like the ending was a little rushed. The whole book is so much sadness that it would have been nice to have a little more of the happiness they have now found together. Even saying that I still would recommend this book and author to anyone looking for a good read.
April 7, 2014
3 Finding Peace Again Stars
When I See You didn’t work for me, but that doesn’t mean it wouldn’t work for you. I say that in the sense, that there wasn’t really anything major that was bad, there were just a lot of elements I do not like in a novel.
General
War Theme Check
Mother and military SEAL wife Check
Kind of Love triangle between husband and husband’s best friend (no cheating) Check
Tragedies, after tragedies, after tragedies Check
Summary
Jordan is a mother and a wife. Her husband is a SEAL. They have been married for four years and in that four years, she has probably seen her husband in total a year’s worth of days. This is Ethan’s (Jordan’s husband) last tour and Jordan can’t wait for it to be over.
Brock is Ethan’s best friend. He is also a SEAL and is also going on tour with Ethan. Brock meets Jordan for the first time (after years of hearing her letters to Ethan). Brock is a ladies man and when he visits Ethan’s home, he soon realizes how perfect Ethan’s life is.
Review
The main issue I have with When I See You is the timeline and how the story is written. I felt the beginning was very slow. I did like the character build up between the three main characters, Ethan, Jordan and Brock. Ethan seemed like a stand up dad and husband. Jordan is very much in love with her husband and Brock is just the outsider looking in. It was all very tame.
The book shifts a little towards the beginning-middle, it was an obvious shift, but I had no issues with it. What I didn’t like was Jordan’s reaction. I get Jordan’s “issues”, but her reaction was just too typical and a little too dramatic for me. Also the whole her parents are dead but she doesn’t like to talk about it was kind of silly. There are so many an issue going on, I felt like that past was just kind of thrown in there.
So Jordan is annoying me and frustrating me and we get to the climatic ending and more stuff happens and I just roll my eyes and shake my head. I felt like a lot of stuff was just being thrown at me towards the end and rather having it wrap-up and build the ending, it was just bam after bam after bam and it ends. That’s it. No, there’s no cliffy, but there wasn’t a nice little closure chapter.
When I See You could have been a winner, with the storyline, but with all the added issues, then Jordan’s crazy behavior and Brock’s unrealistic behavior as well, I was just over it.
Spoilers Below....
Ethan
Brock
Max (Jordan's son)
AMAZON
When I See You didn’t work for me, but that doesn’t mean it wouldn’t work for you. I say that in the sense, that there wasn’t really anything major that was bad, there were just a lot of elements I do not like in a novel.
General
War Theme Check
Mother and military SEAL wife Check
Kind of Love triangle between husband and husband’s best friend (no cheating) Check
Tragedies, after tragedies, after tragedies Check
Summary
Jordan is a mother and a wife. Her husband is a SEAL. They have been married for four years and in that four years, she has probably seen her husband in total a year’s worth of days. This is Ethan’s (Jordan’s husband) last tour and Jordan can’t wait for it to be over.
Brock is Ethan’s best friend. He is also a SEAL and is also going on tour with Ethan. Brock meets Jordan for the first time (after years of hearing her letters to Ethan). Brock is a ladies man and when he visits Ethan’s home, he soon realizes how perfect Ethan’s life is.
Review
The main issue I have with When I See You is the timeline and how the story is written. I felt the beginning was very slow. I did like the character build up between the three main characters, Ethan, Jordan and Brock. Ethan seemed like a stand up dad and husband. Jordan is very much in love with her husband and Brock is just the outsider looking in. It was all very tame.
The book shifts a little towards the beginning-middle, it was an obvious shift, but I had no issues with it. What I didn’t like was Jordan’s reaction. I get Jordan’s “issues”, but her reaction was just too typical and a little too dramatic for me. Also the whole her parents are dead but she doesn’t like to talk about it was kind of silly. There are so many an issue going on, I felt like that past was just kind of thrown in there.
So Jordan is annoying me and frustrating me and we get to the climatic ending and more stuff happens and I just roll my eyes and shake my head. I felt like a lot of stuff was just being thrown at me towards the end and rather having it wrap-up and build the ending, it was just bam after bam after bam and it ends. That’s it. No, there’s no cliffy, but there wasn’t a nice little closure chapter.
When I See You could have been a winner, with the storyline, but with all the added issues, then Jordan’s crazy behavior and Brock’s unrealistic behavior as well, I was just over it.
Spoilers Below....
Ethan
Brock
Max (Jordan's son)
AMAZON 
July 24, 2012
I had a hard time getting into this one, at first. The main character is wildly in love with her husband, but also drawn to his best friend. This made me uncomfortable. Then, I realized this wouldn't be a story of unrealized lust, or an affair, but of death. I had some trouble buying into some of the plot twists (it's clear the writer took a writing class and they told her to "think of the worst thing that could happen to your main characters, and write that" because we have death of spouses, kids, parents, and financees, blindness, firing, betrayal by spouse, lies, sudden brain conditions, comas, murders. It keeps you reading, but grows a bit tiring. I just wanted something good to happen to these people. The characters were so strong; it seemed a shame that most of their story was hung onto contrived events. Still, as a formula, it does keep a reader wondering what's going to happen next (just maybe not in the way the author intended).
The end felt a bit rushed, and there was no explanation as to why (after losing parents, a child and a husband), the main character suddenly is just not worried about loss anymore (other than it makes for a nice happily ever-after ending).
A few people mentioned excessive foul language in their reviews, and I'm thinking they must be reallllllllllllly sensitive, because I think I spotted a total of maybe seven uses of "bad" words (that fit the situation and the characters).
Criticisms aside, I admired the writing skill here. The story kept moving. The descriptions were good. The people appealing (for the most part). The writer had a good editor (and if she did it herself, kudos). So, for a free download, this was a treat.
The end felt a bit rushed, and there was no explanation as to why (after losing parents, a child and a husband), the main character suddenly is just not worried about loss anymore (other than it makes for a nice happily ever-after ending).
A few people mentioned excessive foul language in their reviews, and I'm thinking they must be reallllllllllllly sensitive, because I think I spotted a total of maybe seven uses of "bad" words (that fit the situation and the characters).
Criticisms aside, I admired the writing skill here. The story kept moving. The descriptions were good. The people appealing (for the most part). The writer had a good editor (and if she did it herself, kudos). So, for a free download, this was a treat.
November 6, 2012
Katherine placed this book in my hands as a gift & all I can say is it is absolutely one of the best books I've ever read. It was hard to read due to such an abundance of tragedy but the HEA was the ultimate reward. To say this book moved me is an understatement. I really don't want to say anything about each character but the dynamics between them are amazing. Ethan, the husband-sniper, Brock, the dedicated best friend-sniper, & Jordan, the tragic heroine who was the lead in the dysfunctional triangle of friends/lovers, along with the numerous sidelines of family/friends (Tate & Ashleigh could have their own story, I think). Each chapter is it's own small story within the bigger story. Twists, turns, oh the heartache...I felt as if Katherine placed herself in each characters' head. I pictured her sitting there waiting at a desk with her black Remington, patiently waiting for the characters to finally talk & reveal themselves. Best part? NAVY SEALS ARE HOT, TENDER, FOCUSED, DEDICATED. I want one too & I'm married! Hhhmmmmm.....
August 27, 2012
Ok, this story absolutely broke my heart! I'm not sure how one person could ever go through all of this and carry on but Jordan does. Maybe it is her flaws and her quirky way of dealing with death that allow her to keep living life. I'm sure I could never be that strong. I love the characters and while I got confused when the storyline kept switching back and forth between Jordan and Brock, I was still captivated and could not stop reading! Warning: Have a box of tissues handy while reading!!
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Want to read
May 8, 2012Free on Amazon 05/07/2012.
February 3, 2012
There is a pattern I follow when I start a new book. Kind of like a ritual, I guess. Something I do without even thinking. First, I look at the front cover for a minute and try and see it all. Then I flip the book over to read the back cover. You know, the blurb and/or review comments and/or the author's bio. So, I picked up When I See You and the front cover is nice enough; kind of soothing in earthy tones. Then I flip the book over ... and am totally blown away! It is NOT what I expected. There is a small - very small - author bio at the very bottom of the cover. But the rest of it is beautiful! Why has no one (that I know of) thought of this before? Is there a reason the back cover can't be a highlight? Why should the front cover get all the
attention? On to opening the book. The first thing that pops out is that the whole book is a study in feminine pretty: the font of chapter headings, the graphics, the little quotes ... it is all very appealing to the eye.
As for the story, there was a pretty even balance of good and bad points but the weight of the good outweighs the weight of the bad. Here's what I mean: on the negative side there is almost too much tragedy in the protagonists lives. Jordan and Brock have an inordinate amount of bad karma going on. One has to wonder what these two have done to incur the wrath of every god out there. What pulls this story out of the hellish mire it could be stuck in, is this amazing thread of almost palpable hope that winds it's way through the narrative. No matter the depth of tragedy, Jordan pulls herself up by the bootstraps and carries on. Brock is a little more apt to wallow (he is a man after all) but he also manages to find his way through. The good out weighs the bad.
The characters and relationships in the book are, for the most part, well developed and believable. The only relationship in the book that I didn't feel, was the relationship between Jordan and her young son Max. She seems rather disconnected from him. This can be explained by the fact she spends almost the entire book going through a grieving process, however. And I was so impressed by Katherine Owen's portrayal of grief. It was honest and took time to plough through; it wasn't pretty or easy. I did wonder at the role of sex in the process but, never having been through it myself, that may also be real.
There were also quite a number of editing errors throughout the pages. Normally, I won't even read a book with more than one, or maybe two, editing errors but I found myself overlooking these because I was so caught up in the story. Having read two of Katherine's books now, I can say with great certainty that she is a fantastic story teller!
attention? On to opening the book. The first thing that pops out is that the whole book is a study in feminine pretty: the font of chapter headings, the graphics, the little quotes ... it is all very appealing to the eye.
As for the story, there was a pretty even balance of good and bad points but the weight of the good outweighs the weight of the bad. Here's what I mean: on the negative side there is almost too much tragedy in the protagonists lives. Jordan and Brock have an inordinate amount of bad karma going on. One has to wonder what these two have done to incur the wrath of every god out there. What pulls this story out of the hellish mire it could be stuck in, is this amazing thread of almost palpable hope that winds it's way through the narrative. No matter the depth of tragedy, Jordan pulls herself up by the bootstraps and carries on. Brock is a little more apt to wallow (he is a man after all) but he also manages to find his way through. The good out weighs the bad.
The characters and relationships in the book are, for the most part, well developed and believable. The only relationship in the book that I didn't feel, was the relationship between Jordan and her young son Max. She seems rather disconnected from him. This can be explained by the fact she spends almost the entire book going through a grieving process, however. And I was so impressed by Katherine Owen's portrayal of grief. It was honest and took time to plough through; it wasn't pretty or easy. I did wonder at the role of sex in the process but, never having been through it myself, that may also be real.
There were also quite a number of editing errors throughout the pages. Normally, I won't even read a book with more than one, or maybe two, editing errors but I found myself overlooking these because I was so caught up in the story. Having read two of Katherine's books now, I can say with great certainty that she is a fantastic story teller!
May 10, 2012
“When I See You” is yet another brilliant romance in which Katherine Owen proves that, not only can she create excellent characters, but she can put them through the wringer and make them come out on the other side as even better characters. Jordan Holloway has everything; a good husband, a sweet little son, a promising career and a Malibu beach house. Lieutenant Brock Wainwright is Ethan Holloway's sniper partner in the army. Brock promises to keep Ethan safe for Jordan, but can such a promise be kept?
During the year covered by this book, Jordan learns that promises are lightly made but not often kept and Brock finds out that trust, once lost, must be earned before it can be given again. While she is still mourning the violent and tragic deaths of her parents, Jordan is flung into a world of unbelievable heartbreak as she loses more loved ones, her trust in Brock Wainwright and almost her own life. As though this isn't enough, she learns that one can feel betrayed by deceased loved ones.
Once again I was pleasantly surprised by the realistic characters this author creates. Not only are the main characters strong and unique but they are normal enough not to be above self-pity, dishonesty and pettiness. When one of the characters is blinded in the line of duty, his response to his condition as well as the reactions of those around him, is absolutely natural and realistic. I was extremely impressed with the accuracy with which Katherine Owen wrote about the subject of the newly blinded, which she must have researched thoroughly.
As she uses the first person narrative present to tell the story, I was there with the characters as they experienced their trials and joys. She also shifts the perspective between the two main characters - a technique which brings the reader even more into the centre of the story and the thoughts of the characters. Although this book is mostly a serious look at the lives of Jordan and Brock, there were times when I had to smile at Jordan's inner dialogue and thoughts.
As a romance this book has all the required ingredients; from romantic moonlit love scenes to monumental shouting matches. It proves that, although two people can be attracted to one another, they must first fight their own inner demons before they can move on and make a success of a romantic relationship. .
I happily give “When I See You” 5 stars and urge all who are looking for an excellent romance novel with far more depth than your normal little love story, to get hold of this book asap! (Ellen Fritz)
During the year covered by this book, Jordan learns that promises are lightly made but not often kept and Brock finds out that trust, once lost, must be earned before it can be given again. While she is still mourning the violent and tragic deaths of her parents, Jordan is flung into a world of unbelievable heartbreak as she loses more loved ones, her trust in Brock Wainwright and almost her own life. As though this isn't enough, she learns that one can feel betrayed by deceased loved ones.
Once again I was pleasantly surprised by the realistic characters this author creates. Not only are the main characters strong and unique but they are normal enough not to be above self-pity, dishonesty and pettiness. When one of the characters is blinded in the line of duty, his response to his condition as well as the reactions of those around him, is absolutely natural and realistic. I was extremely impressed with the accuracy with which Katherine Owen wrote about the subject of the newly blinded, which she must have researched thoroughly.
As she uses the first person narrative present to tell the story, I was there with the characters as they experienced their trials and joys. She also shifts the perspective between the two main characters - a technique which brings the reader even more into the centre of the story and the thoughts of the characters. Although this book is mostly a serious look at the lives of Jordan and Brock, there were times when I had to smile at Jordan's inner dialogue and thoughts.
As a romance this book has all the required ingredients; from romantic moonlit love scenes to monumental shouting matches. It proves that, although two people can be attracted to one another, they must first fight their own inner demons before they can move on and make a success of a romantic relationship. .
I happily give “When I See You” 5 stars and urge all who are looking for an excellent romance novel with far more depth than your normal little love story, to get hold of this book asap! (Ellen Fritz)
January 4, 2015
This is the fourth book that I have read by this author and after each book I think why would I read another one of her books but as I come to the end I realize that I am emotionally invested and I just felt the entire story to my core. The author makes you feel like you are in the story, this is my husband, my family, my best friend.
The main character Jordan has a huge fear of being left alone after the death of her parents but yet she marries someone that is in the military. In four years of marriage they have been together less than 300 days. Jordan spends most of her time alone without her husband but she has their son Max to take care of. This story has a tremendous amount of heartbreak in it and as a reader you think No, not again but the author shows how strong her characters are and how they will fight for what they want.
This book pushes the limits of loss. How much loss can one person take? Is it bad luck? Karma? Does this person deserve happily ever after? All of these things you ask yourself throughout the story.
I loved this book plain and simple! Jordan's story is going to be one of those that is hard to forget! (Just like Linc & Tally). I read a lot of books and some times I have a hard time remembering characters names after I move on to the next story but not with this author! Her characters and their story is UNFORGETTABLE!
The main character Jordan has a huge fear of being left alone after the death of her parents but yet she marries someone that is in the military. In four years of marriage they have been together less than 300 days. Jordan spends most of her time alone without her husband but she has their son Max to take care of. This story has a tremendous amount of heartbreak in it and as a reader you think No, not again but the author shows how strong her characters are and how they will fight for what they want.
This book pushes the limits of loss. How much loss can one person take? Is it bad luck? Karma? Does this person deserve happily ever after? All of these things you ask yourself throughout the story.
I loved this book plain and simple! Jordan's story is going to be one of those that is hard to forget! (Just like Linc & Tally). I read a lot of books and some times I have a hard time remembering characters names after I move on to the next story but not with this author! Her characters and their story is UNFORGETTABLE!
May 14, 2012
2 words....Tear jerker!!!! I was crying so hard through parts of it, I could barely see the words on my kindle. Katherine, you did it again. I have to admit I was a little worried after reading Seeing Julia BUT this rivals Not To Us! I don't know which book is my favorite. This rivals it. I found myself going walking Jordan's steps right along with her, and at times I wanted to choke her and tell her to put her big girl panties on and deal. I loved the scene in the hotel room with Kate though. She got her! Yes!
Jordan and Ashleigh had a conversation about love with Jordan telling Ashleigh that when she found love she would just know. It's evident that she knew when she met Brock that day on the beach. But, then what was Evan to her. Was he her lifeline back to reality from the grief of her parents? And he dies, leaves her broke, and sells her mom's jewelry. Who does that? Jordan has had the entire everything plus the kitchen sink of life thrown at her and she walks away with the love of her life and a new baby. It was such a wonderful book!
Jordan and Ashleigh had a conversation about love with Jordan telling Ashleigh that when she found love she would just know. It's evident that she knew when she met Brock that day on the beach. But, then what was Evan to her. Was he her lifeline back to reality from the grief of her parents? And he dies, leaves her broke, and sells her mom's jewelry. Who does that? Jordan has had the entire everything plus the kitchen sink of life thrown at her and she walks away with the love of her life and a new baby. It was such a wonderful book!
September 24, 2014
Holy shit what a story. Jordan is one strong woman, hands down. What she endures in this story is enough to crush anyone tens times over. She gets lost in grief but always finds her way back. Brock is a strong and determined man. I have to say that is book was beautifully written. I must say that I wanted more from the ending. An epilogue would of made this story perfect.
July 28, 2012
OH GOD! This book absolutely KILLED me. My heart broke into a billion pieces when I read this emotional roller coaster. No words. One of the strongest heroines I have ever read about to overcome such devastating obstacles and unfortunate occurrences.
November 10, 2012
This book was amazing!! I cried throughout the whole book. I got angry, mad, sad, hurt....I don't think I have ever felt so much like the character in any book that I've read. Katherine does a phenomenal job of making you feel that you are there. I just wish I had the house to show for it lol
August 23, 2013
I loved every page of this book. It was beautiful & realistic. I especially loved the no cliffhanger & HEA!!
June 11, 2015
Jordon has enough tragedy to last four lifetimes. I was swept up in her world (Though at times it was painfully obvious how fictional this book was).
September 20, 2017
I had this book waiting on my bookshelf for too long. When I started to read it, I groaned a little, thinking another military romance, but I kept reading on. I am glad that I did. So many things happened in this book. So many emotions come up with the characters and the story. It was almost too much but it was so well written. I couldn't stop myself from reading it or liking it as much as I did, which surprised me in the end.
May 14, 2020
Necesito procesar todo lo que lei no se siento que enserio tantas cosas le pueden pasar a una persona🤔
March 5, 2017
Bueno tengo sentimientos encontrados con esta historia.
Es hermosa pero demasiado trágica, me parece que la escritora se cebo malamente con tantas desgracias para Jordan.
La historia de amor entre los protas también fue demasiado turbulenta y hasta traumática.
No voy a decir que no me gusto. En verdad es una historia muy buena pero creo que sobró algo de tragedia.
También falto un epílogo. Saber que al final, después de tanta tragedia, tuvieron su final feliz, tranquilo con sus hijos y con el negocio que tenían en mente.
A pesar de esto la recomiendo totalmente.
Es hermosa pero demasiado trágica, me parece que la escritora se cebo malamente con tantas desgracias para Jordan.
La historia de amor entre los protas también fue demasiado turbulenta y hasta traumática.
No voy a decir que no me gusto. En verdad es una historia muy buena pero creo que sobró algo de tragedia.
También falto un epílogo. Saber que al final, después de tanta tragedia, tuvieron su final feliz, tranquilo con sus hijos y con el negocio que tenían en mente.
A pesar de esto la recomiendo totalmente.
March 1, 2013
Readers looking for a good cry from a story laced with romance, heartache, sizzle and a series of complications will find a solid read in Katherine Owen's When I See You.
Orphaned at 17 when her parents, a famous Hollywood power couple, were killed, Jordan Holloway continues to deal with abandonment issues a decade later. With her husband Ethan, a Navy SEAL, about to leave on his third and final tour of Afghanistan, she is no more ready to be left alone with their 3-year-old son, Max, than when he left weeks after they met and married.
Her life changes when she meets Brock Wainwright, Ethan's childhood best friend-turned sniper partner. With his own troubled past, Jordan and Brock recognize each other as kindred spirits who perhaps have a better understanding of each other than the man who links them together despite their obvious love and devotion to him. Before they leave on tour, Jordan elicits a promise from Brock he many not be able to keep though he will try.
Told in first-person from the perspective of Jordan and Brock, When I See You evokes emotion almost from the get-go. I had my first tears a few chapters into the story, and with a few intermissions, they continued after I finished the story. When I woke up the morning after finishing the story, my first thoughts were of this story and the feelings it drew from me as a reader, which shows it has some staying power.
Jordan and Brock were both easy characters to connect with. Despite their obvious differences -- she grew up a cherished daughter to celebrities, and he grew up on a ranch -- their similarities stood out as a connection, though not always a happy one. Their connection makes for a powerful and compelling story, because no matter how many miles or issues separate them it always remains to a degree.
The other characters in the book, including Jordan's son, husband and best friends to Brock's family and military companions, offered solid development for the story. Perhaps the most interesting supporting characters were the people Jordan and Brock have lost in their past. Though both of them strive to move on every day, the ghosts and reminders of these people are a constant reminder that you can continue forward, but your past will always remain with you.
While I saw one of the major directions the book might take from the get-go, after that the story consistently found ways to surprise me. I have to be vague not to spoil any of the moments in the story, but it's my way of saying this book had plenty of unexpected turns that kept me flipping pages. The generally well-developed story carried lots of action to keep the story moving at a solid pace.
I did find one of the plot points later in the book a little abrupt and hurried, the rest of the story was so well told and believably conveyed it did not spoil the story for me. And while there were plenty pockets of happiness throughout the story, a constant theme remains that you can never take any moment for granted, because there are no guarantees of a smooth path in life.
Though I expected this book to have lots of depth and emotion, I will say it was a bit sadder than I ever imagined. Keep that in mind when you pick it up for yourself -- have tissues handy and remove your mascara before reading.
Originally posted at www.change-the-word.blogspot.com.
Orphaned at 17 when her parents, a famous Hollywood power couple, were killed, Jordan Holloway continues to deal with abandonment issues a decade later. With her husband Ethan, a Navy SEAL, about to leave on his third and final tour of Afghanistan, she is no more ready to be left alone with their 3-year-old son, Max, than when he left weeks after they met and married.
Her life changes when she meets Brock Wainwright, Ethan's childhood best friend-turned sniper partner. With his own troubled past, Jordan and Brock recognize each other as kindred spirits who perhaps have a better understanding of each other than the man who links them together despite their obvious love and devotion to him. Before they leave on tour, Jordan elicits a promise from Brock he many not be able to keep though he will try.
Told in first-person from the perspective of Jordan and Brock, When I See You evokes emotion almost from the get-go. I had my first tears a few chapters into the story, and with a few intermissions, they continued after I finished the story. When I woke up the morning after finishing the story, my first thoughts were of this story and the feelings it drew from me as a reader, which shows it has some staying power.
Jordan and Brock were both easy characters to connect with. Despite their obvious differences -- she grew up a cherished daughter to celebrities, and he grew up on a ranch -- their similarities stood out as a connection, though not always a happy one. Their connection makes for a powerful and compelling story, because no matter how many miles or issues separate them it always remains to a degree.
The other characters in the book, including Jordan's son, husband and best friends to Brock's family and military companions, offered solid development for the story. Perhaps the most interesting supporting characters were the people Jordan and Brock have lost in their past. Though both of them strive to move on every day, the ghosts and reminders of these people are a constant reminder that you can continue forward, but your past will always remain with you.
While I saw one of the major directions the book might take from the get-go, after that the story consistently found ways to surprise me. I have to be vague not to spoil any of the moments in the story, but it's my way of saying this book had plenty of unexpected turns that kept me flipping pages. The generally well-developed story carried lots of action to keep the story moving at a solid pace.
I did find one of the plot points later in the book a little abrupt and hurried, the rest of the story was so well told and believably conveyed it did not spoil the story for me. And while there were plenty pockets of happiness throughout the story, a constant theme remains that you can never take any moment for granted, because there are no guarantees of a smooth path in life.
Though I expected this book to have lots of depth and emotion, I will say it was a bit sadder than I ever imagined. Keep that in mind when you pick it up for yourself -- have tissues handy and remove your mascara before reading.
Originally posted at www.change-the-word.blogspot.com.
March 6, 2013
How much heartache can a person really endure?
For the past four years, each time that twenty-seven year old Jordan Holloway's Navy SEAL husband Ethan is deployed to Afghanistan, she battles an inner fear of being abandoned. Her fear stems back to when she lost her famous Oscar winning parents to a brutal murder at the age of seventeen. After losing her parents, Jordan swore that she would never allow herself to fall in love, because loving someone and then losing them was too great a price to pay. She no longer believes in fairy tales or the happily-ever-afters, even after getting swept off her feet by the dashing Ethan, having an adorable three year old son named Max, and a successful career as a head chef at an exclusive Malibu restaurant. Each of the three times Ethan has departed for another tour in Afghanistan, she plummets into despair at his leaving her once again, it feels like the loss of her parents all over again, the fear of losing the one you love the most comes back, and this fourth time is no different, even though he promises that this will be his last tour. On the final day before Ethan departs, Jordan seeks out Lt. Brock Wainwright, Ethan's best friend and Navy SEAL/sniper partner. Jordan makes Brock promise that he will keep Ethan safe in Afghanistan and bring him home to her. Brock is conflicted by her request, but is willing to keep his promise. Can such a promise be kept?
When I See You is an emotionally charged and poignant love story that will tug at your heart strings, and make you feel the full gamut of emotions. Author Katherine Owen weaves a gut wrenching tale about two people who have a deep connection between them: both have suffered heartache after heartache, they have overcome traumatic obstacles, and have learned to survive and to love again.
Told in the first person narrative with alternating perspectives by Jordan Holloway and Brock Wainwright, the reader will find themselves caught up in Jordan and Brock's story. This is a riveting story full of raw emotion and endless plot twists, with attention to detail of Jordan and Brock's trials and tribulations, and rich descriptions of the settings (Malibu, Afghanistan, and Austin), it will make the reader feel like they are on the journey alongside Jordan and Brock. You can't help but get lost in this captivating story, the drama and reality of the intertwining lives of Jordan and Brock takes you on a emotional roller coaster ride that will leave you completely spent.
This is a deeply moving story that delves into the reality of life full of drama, romance, heartaches, ups and downs that anyone can relate to, especially our military families. One word of advice, have a full box of tissues at hand, you're going to need them!
When I See You is a beautifully written tear jerker of a story, it is one that will resonate with you long after the last words have been read.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of the book from the author in exchange for my honest review and participation in a virtual book tour event hosted by Chick Lit Plus Blog Tours.
http://jerseygirlbookreviews.blogspot...
For the past four years, each time that twenty-seven year old Jordan Holloway's Navy SEAL husband Ethan is deployed to Afghanistan, she battles an inner fear of being abandoned. Her fear stems back to when she lost her famous Oscar winning parents to a brutal murder at the age of seventeen. After losing her parents, Jordan swore that she would never allow herself to fall in love, because loving someone and then losing them was too great a price to pay. She no longer believes in fairy tales or the happily-ever-afters, even after getting swept off her feet by the dashing Ethan, having an adorable three year old son named Max, and a successful career as a head chef at an exclusive Malibu restaurant. Each of the three times Ethan has departed for another tour in Afghanistan, she plummets into despair at his leaving her once again, it feels like the loss of her parents all over again, the fear of losing the one you love the most comes back, and this fourth time is no different, even though he promises that this will be his last tour. On the final day before Ethan departs, Jordan seeks out Lt. Brock Wainwright, Ethan's best friend and Navy SEAL/sniper partner. Jordan makes Brock promise that he will keep Ethan safe in Afghanistan and bring him home to her. Brock is conflicted by her request, but is willing to keep his promise. Can such a promise be kept?
When I See You is an emotionally charged and poignant love story that will tug at your heart strings, and make you feel the full gamut of emotions. Author Katherine Owen weaves a gut wrenching tale about two people who have a deep connection between them: both have suffered heartache after heartache, they have overcome traumatic obstacles, and have learned to survive and to love again.
Told in the first person narrative with alternating perspectives by Jordan Holloway and Brock Wainwright, the reader will find themselves caught up in Jordan and Brock's story. This is a riveting story full of raw emotion and endless plot twists, with attention to detail of Jordan and Brock's trials and tribulations, and rich descriptions of the settings (Malibu, Afghanistan, and Austin), it will make the reader feel like they are on the journey alongside Jordan and Brock. You can't help but get lost in this captivating story, the drama and reality of the intertwining lives of Jordan and Brock takes you on a emotional roller coaster ride that will leave you completely spent.
This is a deeply moving story that delves into the reality of life full of drama, romance, heartaches, ups and downs that anyone can relate to, especially our military families. One word of advice, have a full box of tissues at hand, you're going to need them!
When I See You is a beautifully written tear jerker of a story, it is one that will resonate with you long after the last words have been read.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of the book from the author in exchange for my honest review and participation in a virtual book tour event hosted by Chick Lit Plus Blog Tours.
http://jerseygirlbookreviews.blogspot...
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