Emi Lost & Found Series

Emi Lost & Found #0.5-3

by Lori L. Otto

This is a special, one-volume collection of the Emi Lost & Found series books: Lost and Found, Time Stands Still and Never Look Back.

This collection also contains two bonus short stories, based on the series.

EMI LOST & FOUND series
LOST AND FOUND (book one) - When artist Nate Wilson falls in love, he falls hard. The problem is, he’s only been in love once, and the girl of his affections is his best friend, Emi Hennigan. In high school, the two bonded over painful breakups, and swore off a relationship to save their friendship. Thirteen years later, Nate has had more than his share of emotionally-unfulfilling, sexual relationships with beautiful women to distract himself from his true romantic feelings.

When a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity takes Nate away from his friend and his comfortable lifestyle, he is forced to reflect on the distinct void that Emi’s absence leaves in his life. To Nate’s surprise, Emi has a similar experience; but as the friends embark upon their journey toward happiness together, destiny reveals other plans for Emi.

TIME STANDS STILL (book two) - Depression threatens all the relationships in Emi Hennigan’s life after a near death experience leaves her injured and feeling alone in a world she barely recognizes. On a night that is supposed to signify a new beginning in her life, she loses everything she loves.

It’s on that very same night, though, that Emi has a chance meeting with a man from her past who has the power to bring her more happiness than she’s ever known. Jack Holland is on a mission to rescue Emi from the pain that’s been consuming her, but his patience is tested as Emi holds on to the memory of the only man she’s ever truly loved.

NEVER LOOK BACK (book three) - Jack Holland finally has everything a man could want. After a lengthy courtship that has required persistence and self-restraint, Emi Hennigan– the woman Jack has been fantasizing about since college– has fallen in love with him. Together, the couple sets out to create their own happily-ever-after.

It’s only when Emi delivers some unwelcome news that Jack begins to question everything about the woman he loves. It will take a considerable amount of understanding and sacrifice for Jack to accept the future Emi can offer him– a future he never imagined for himself.

SHORT STORIES
LOVE, LOST
Ten years after his first encounter with the woman of his dreams, Jack espies Emi across a hotel lobby and reflects upon the missed opportunity of the one night they had together in college. In an effort to redeem himself, he attempts to rekindle the flame that had been ignited between them. Just as the two share a moment that leaves them both breathless, Emi's reality catches up to her.

IN THE MIND OF A DYING MAN
In the last moments of his life, a man cherishes all the moments he had with the woman he loves.

Genres: Romance, Contemporary, New Adult, Contemporary Romance, Friends To Lovers, Emotional, Young Adult

1170 pages, Kindle Edition

First published June 2, 2012

About the author

I have unpublished my books. Goodbye, book world!

Reviews

[Aestas Book Blog · Rating 5 out of 5]

*** FULL SERIES REVIEW NOW POSTED ***

Choosing to read this was one of the best decisions I've ever made. Emi Lost & Found is a beautifully written, powerful, and  unforgettable  love story that made me feel every possible emotion.

This is a story that will stay in my heart forever.

This series took over my life. I've now been through three sleepless nights staying up til the wee hours of the morning to read 'just one more chapter'. I've cried almost harder than I've ever cried over a book before, I've laughed, I’ve felt love, loss, confusion, anger, betrayal, elation, relief… pretty much everything.

The author calls this an  atypical romance and I totally understand why. It's an unconventional story in every way. It steps outside the box, it defies the norm, and it comes out on top. It put my heart through the ringer but having finished it now, I can tell you that this is one of the best stories I have ever read.

However.... it took me over a year to psych myself up to reading this series.

I’ll be honest, it scared the crap out of me.

I love emotional stories — they are my favorite kind — but this one, ho boy!! I knew that one certain part of it would devastate me. So many readers told me that they ugly cried and I was sure I would too. But did I want to put myself through that??

Well, I had to work myself up to it… but I always knew that YES, I did!

I’ve always known the “big spoiler” from the end of the first book and I am so glad I did because honestly if I had dove in without knowing, I might have been too angry to process my emotions. But for me, knowing it in advance allowed me the time to come to terms with it, mull it over in my mind, and decide if this was a story I really wanted to read.

And again, the answer was yes.

When I was reading and I came to “that point” where the big spoiler happened (ps – it’s not cheating) and I sobbed. Guys, I hadn't ugly cried this much since The Bronze Horseman. I was a wreck. I literally couldn’t breathe, couldn’t see the page through my tears, I was just overwhelmed with the emotions it drew out of me. My poor husband came running into the room and freaked when he saw me. I pretty much just sat there sobbing in his arms for what felt like forever.

At this point, I wasn’t sure I could go on. Honestly, I strongly debated putting the series down for good. I was devastated. But this story kept drawing me in. It was painful and took the term "heart breaking" to a whole new level but it was also beautiful. Very real. Raw. Not white-picket-fence-perfect to be sure… but I was feeling this journey so strongly and I couldn't wait to see the healing process.

As the story went on, I can truly say that my heart was pieced back together. Did it still hurt? Yes. Absolutely. I don't think that part will ever stop hurting. I've been writing this review with tears pouring down my face at the memory of it. But I can honestly say that the story came full circle. The new developments and healing happened in such a believable, beautifully written way that I couldn't help but be swept away by it all.

The most accurate way I've heard this described is quite simply an atypical romance. The things we’ve come to expect from the romance books we read each day do not happen here. Yes, there is a romance — and intense, soul deep connection between the two people in love, but the story and the way things play out is anything but normal. But somehow, it just works.

As a quick background, this is a completed series -- comprised of a prequel and 3 main novels -- with a fully resolved ending. This series takes place over a span of approximately 15 years. It was never rushed and took the time to fully allow you to experience each moment with the characters. It's not a quick read though and my advice is not to read them until you have the time to read all 3.5 books at once. Trust me. Even though they're broken down into 3 main books, it is one continuous story and it simply will not have the same impact on you if read them separately. So, when you're ready, just commit to them.

I have the biggest book hangover imaginable now. I feel like I know these characters -- like I've lived their lives with them -- and letting go of them isn't easy. My thoughts keep going back to them.... and I know they will for a long time to come.

I’m having a hard time finding anything to compare this series to for you guys… Regarding the first book and start of this series, I think the closest I can come to in terms of ‘feeling’ is the Love Me With Lies trilogy and Present Perfect. It’s obviously not at all the same story but it did evoke some similar emotions in me. But then in the second and third book, I just have nothing at all to compare it to -- it's just totally "different" and I can't even come up with a remotely similar comparison. There really is nothing else like these books out there and I just love that about them. They're utterly unique and incredibly powerful.

Regarding rating -- I loved this story with all my heart. I truly did. In terms of writing, originality, and the sheer epic level of emotion it evoked in me over and over again, I have to give it 5 stars. This isn't to say it's perfect though because it did have a few flaws for me but honestly, I consider them insignificant and there is just no way that I can sit here, looking back over this stunning series and give it anything less than the 5 stars it deserves.

I can't recommend this series highly enough. Go into it with an open mind and just allow it to take over your heart. It blew me away. I felt pure happiness, absolute devastation, and the ultimate healing.

This truly is a one-of-a-kind,  unforgettable love story.

Series rating: 5 stars

_____________________________________

✤✤ PLOT EXPLANATION WITH SPOILERS ✤✤

If you don’t want to go into the story blind, I’ve explained the whole plot here for you. Personally, I knew this going in and I am so glad I did. But that’s just me and I know every reader is different so this choice is totally up to you.

This is basically a life long series following the story of this girl, Emi. In high school, her dad cheats on her mom after 25 years of a solid marriage and she's left feeling like she never wants to be in love. Ever. But things are more complicated than that -- remember she's only 16 at this point -- and even though her dad tried to explain his reasons why he left her mother (he really, genuinely loves this other woman), it leaves her emotionally confused and generally angry towards anything love related.

At the same time, she meets Nate in high school. He's a gorgeous, profoundly observant, kind of bad boy slash artist (yes, it's a weird mix, but it totally works for him) and they have this really close, strong connection between them. But she keeps them in the friend zone since she's basically learned that love ruins relationships and doesn't want to ruin what they have.

End novella.

Skip forward nine years to the start of the first book. Nate and Emi are still best friends, the closest you can imagine, but they are not a couple. He has always loved her but also has always known how unlikely it would be for her to ever allow herself to be in a relationship with him so they both date other people (him many people, her a few) and they're actually both serious about it too because it really doesn't look likely that she'll ever let them be a couple despite their strong (romantic) feelings for each other. This part of the story is very complicated and a little emotionally confusing at times as they figure out what they want most in life but eventually Emi decides and realizes that their love is worth giving a chance to and they fall in love.

At the end of the first book, there is a tragic car accident and Nate dies. He was her best friend, her first love, and he dies. And it. is. devastating.

I want to say that I am so glad I knew in advance that Nate died because I knew to expect it. I knew from the time I first started the prologue and if you read the story knowing what is going to happen, it is my honest belief that you will get so much more out of it than if you're just blindsided by the event. I'll admit even that if I hadn't known in advance, I would likely have been angered by his death... but knowing in advance has given me time to mull things over in my mind and come to terms with the facts prior to experiencing them through my read of the book.

Then the next two books are about her picking up the pieces and there's a guy she meets (eventually - nothing is rushed) who is just incredible. His name is Jack and he's a kind hearted, understanding, patient man who never tried to replace Nate, and respected both his memory and her feelings for him but just wanted to build something new with her. He loved her enough to wait as long as it took, and to accept her with as much baggage as she came with. And he helped her put back the pieces of her life better than they ever were places to begin with. With all my heart, I know and believe he was the one for her.

Now, there was an added layer or twist to it about Jack that was revealed at this point and it changed everything. And even though this is a spoiler-y section, I'm not going to tell you what it is because I think discovering it as you read is too special an experience to take away from you. Just trust me -- it. changes. everything.

There is no "Team Nate" or "Team Jack" -- this was never a love triangle and there was no 'one or the other.' Both men were amazing. Both men loved her. And she loved both men. Differently. And at different times in her life.

There is no doubt in my mind that Jack was her soul mate. Her real soul mate. Nate was her best friend and also was a wonderful match for her. Had the accident never happened, she would have lived a long and happy life with him and I believe they would have been a fantastic couple. But that was not what life dished out. And what she had with Jack was it. Incomparable and absolutely right.

_____________________________________

✤✤ READING ORDER CLARIFICATION ✤✤

This review was for the completed series. You can buy it in one big bundle on Amazon - just search "emi lost and found" and it'll be the first result.

The full series includes the following books which must be read in order:

NOT TODAY, BUT SOMEDAY (prequel)
LOST & FOUND (book #1)
TIME STANDS STILL (book #2)
NEVER LOOK BACK (book #3)

*note: some people read the prequel last but I highly recommend reading it first. it might not seem like it at the time, but as you read the story, you’ll see what a huge impact those events had on their lives.



****************************

For more of my reviews, book news and updates:
✦ Main blog: Aestas Book Blog
✦ Facebook Blog Page
✦ Twitter

[Lady Vigilante (Feifei) · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you are even remotely interested in this series, then read this overview and ignore my individual reviews of each book.

For the past 6 days, I've been in a trance. Basically I was just so fully immersed in the Emi Lost and Found world I lost touch with reality.

My comfort food:



Trash that somehow I was able to ignore for the past few days:



My face for the last 6 days:



But despite everything, I think this series is worth reading. It will open your eyes and possibly make you look at the world differently.

Life is beautiful.

Don't take anything or anyone for granted.

Life is short so live everyday.

To quote Nate: "I believe you can love more than one person in a lifetime."

Appreciate everything.

I almost wished I waited until after I read the entire series to rate it because as a whole, this series rates 4.5 stars.

My recommended reading order:

1. Not Today, But Someday
2. Lost and Found
3. Time Stands Still
4. Never Look Back

The prequel Not Today, But Someday can be read after book 3, but I highly recommend reading it beforehand. It helps set up the premise of book 1 so you can better understand the characters. You will thank me after when you're done with book 3. Of course, if you want your heart ripped out completely then you can read it after book 3.

That is all.

[Dee Montoya · Rating 5 out of 5]

***** 5 Transcendent Stars****

Have you ever read story that is so beautiful and powerful that it gets deep into your veins and travels to your heart? making you feel a million different emotions all at once? experiencing this is the reason why I love to read so much and Emi Lost & Found Series was exactly that for me. A truly remarkable read !!!!

Emi and Nate have been best friends since high school, they bonded over the promise to never fall in love, trying to avoid getting hurt. One night Emi was really drunk and they kissed, making Nate realize how he wants Emi to be more than just his best friend, but afraid that he can't fulfill her very high expectations, he doesn't act on his feelings. Time passes by and their friendship grows stronger, there's always sexual tension between them but they are both afraid to move on that direction because they care about the friendship too much to loose it.

" Are you Hurt?" "Where?" " My Heart"

Nate is the total package, he is gorgeous, sexy and sensitive; but he has flaws like everybody else and his biggest mistake is that he's always looking for Emi in all the girls he dates (and there's a lot...). Emi's character is very complex, she strives to be independent but she is so sweet and caring that all the people around her are usually a bit overprotective of her. One blurry night a long time ago, Emi received a life altering kiss, and ever since then she's been trying unsuccessfully to re-create that same amazing feeling; but is it with the man who's always been there for her or maybe with someone from her past? Lucky for us, we get to experience the painful yet enlightening journey of finding the truth about love with her.

"One Transcendent kiss, that later makes lovers take soft breaths, holding hands."

Emi goes through some devastating experiences that will leave you sobbing and reaching for large amounts of chocolate. Through it all, her incredibly supportive friends and family will help her heal and learn to let go of the past and allow new opportunities for the future.



There's not much more I can say without spoiling it the story, and believe me, you won't want to miss a minute of this novel. It was written with such sensibility and passion that makes it hard to forget.

This is very intense story, and at some point you may feel the need to stop reading , but PLEASE DONT!!! KEEP GOING!! I promise, you will not regret it, this is a story about friendship, love and about learning to seize the opportunities and how to learn from our mistakes; because a lot of times in life those painful moments with time become blessings that will make us feel grateful for the hard times.

I love and live for books like Emi Lost & Found, intense and heartbreaking and because of that I highly recommend reading this book with a buddy and if you can't find one feel free to message me at any time and I will offer encouragement and support, so go ahead and pick up this books today, and be ready to dream, cry and fall in love with this fascinating characters and their story.

My playlist for Emi Lost & Found Series:
*Make you Feel My Love By Adele
*Cannonball By Demian Rice
*All I Want by The Kodaline
*My Immortal by Evanescence
*Who you love By John Mayer ft. Katy Perry
*Bound to You By Christina Aguilera
*The Way I am by Ingrid Michaelson

I want to give a special thanks to my new lovely-Venezuelan friend Daniela , she made the experience of reading this book so much more enjoyable; we totally bonded over our mutual love of Nate. She served as great support when I thought I might go crazy from crying so much. D, Gracias, Eres una nota!!

[KindleCousins · Rating 2 out of 5]

I read this book because it was supposed to be atypical, emotional, and life changing. I'm not that typical romance girl. My faves include Vain, Sea of Tranquility, and sempre #2. These are all emotional books with great supporting characters. A lot of reviews stated if you want a typical romance don't read this, that's why I read it. You know what I got? A typical romance with immature and forgettable characters.

First off the prequel was written wonderfully. I was pulled in from the beginning. I loved Nate and Emi. I loved the dual POV. Great read. Couldn't wait to continue.

So I continued with Lost and Found which is told in Nate's POV. It was slow and I pretty much hated the male POV throughout the whole book. I feel like with a story this consumed about a friendship it would have been better written in the dual POV. I mean maybe this was the aspect that wasn't typical...idk. So I read on and on. And I didn't believe Emi knew what the hell she wanted. By the time they got together I don't think I really cared. Emi got on my nerves, I pretty much hated her. She had not matured not one bit since high school. I hate a lot of back and forth BS. We're going to be together, no wait, okay we're on again, no wait again. Like what?! I just couldn't take it. So when the emotional part came I was already emotionally drained from the games Emi plays.

So book two begins. And yes it was emotional because I like Nate. But I didn't really feel sorry for Emi like I should have. My heart ached for Donna. And now I'm stuck in Emi's head and I'm happy she ready to heal. Jack is great. Too great. So cliche, so typical, soul mates. Again here comes Emi and her games. Hey I understand the need to just be friends, but why the heck does she have to be a tease? We need to be friends, lets make out, put your hand between my legs, no we're friends, suck my breasts, no we're friends, lets get a hotel room, no we' re friends. Dude you waited 10years for this?! Just be friends!!!!!!!! Stop playing games!!!!!!! 30 year old child with her pigtails and not wearing a coat when it's freezing because her outfit would be ruined. I just can't!!!!!

The supporting characters in this book were the worse. Teresa was a disrespectful slut. Jenn was an inconsiderate selfish slut. Chris was a self righteous prick. Not one of them supported her. They always went against what she wanted and thought they knew everything. Anna and Donna were the only characters I truly liked.

I started the last book but DNF. I couldn't take any sighing and dazed looks from Jack. His POV sounded just like Emi's. I skimmed through it. Whatever. I didn't care about the end to Emi's story because I didn't like her. I'm sorry I know this is a highly rated book but for the life of me i don't know why. It was the longest draw out story ever. I hate not finishing books, but one thing I learned from this book was to live everyday like its your last and don't regret anything. So with that being said I will not waste my time on books I'm just not enjoying.

[Amber’s reading · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 stars!

Emi Lost & Found is an experience, a journey. This beautifully written series is full of heartbreak, healing, and love. You will cry an ocean of tears, but feel so happy and fulfilled when it’s all over. This is the type of book that will stay with you for a long time, maybe forever. It will consume you. You will feel like you are a part of these characters lives, living their experiences with them.

“I will cherish all the moments I have to share with other people. I will never let another day pass me by. I will live in the present, not mourn for the past or dread the future. I will trust my instincts, and I will act on them, not ignore them out of fear.”

It’s so refreshing to find a new author that writes a beautiful story that’s free from tropes and formulas. Just an authentic story with real emotions, real pain, real healing, real characters, and real love.

This author is able to deliver an unforgettable love story WITHOUT insta-love, alpha males, overused dirty talk, gratuitous sex scenes, contrived conflict, OW drama, etc, etc. All these cliches and tropes are so played out and just plain exhausting.

This series definitely delivers an HEA. But the journey to get there wasn’t easy. But it was really worth it. Worth the pain and worth the tears.

[Christine · Rating 5 out of 5]

HOLY SHIT!!! THIS IS HANDS DOWN ONE OF THE BEST SERIES I HAVE EVER READ...LIKE EVER!!!!

If you haven't already read this series then I would totally recommend you put whatever you're reading down now and start reading this..! Like now!! Whatcha waiting for go NOW!!

I was thinking about writing a review for each book but then I figured a bulk one would work too so here it is...and I promise that I'll try not to spoil the entire series so here goes.

This is the Lost & Found Series by Lori L Otto.

This is the story of Nate, Emi and Jack.

Nate and Emi have been best friends since High School. They have always been attracted to one another but for fear that acting on that attraction could damage their friendship they have never given into the attraction. Nate falls hard and loves even harder. Emi is more reserved. She has been scarred by her parents divorce and acts more with her head than she does with her heart.

Jack meets Emi at a college party. For him it was love at first sight. They have an instant connection that hits him full force and he can never seem to forget the way her lips felt against his. Though their meeting only lasts a few hours he can't get back what he lost that night.

Thirteen years later they cross paths. After an introduction, an engagement party, a dance, a song, a late night drive to the convenient store...their lives will forever be changed and nothing will ever be the same again.

Nate



Emi



Jack



I can't describe how much I loved this series! Hands down the best series I have read this year, actually it's one of the best ever.

This series was beautifully written. I fell in love with all the characters especially my Nate. I love him so much, that I will keep him in my heart forever. The thing I absolutely loved about this series is that it makes you feel. I found myself lost in Emi, Nate and Jack's world. I felt their love, pain, longing and...just everything. I was brought to my knees in book two and I still don't think I'm completely over what happened, and I write this review with tears still flowing from my eyes, but that is what makes this series so damn special.

As much as I wanna say more about this series I think I'll stop coz I don't wanna be an ass and spoil the series for the rest of you but I will say this. Buy it, read it, love it.

Expect a lot of this



this..



and this



this...



more of this...



and definitely more of this




And to the author...Lori you are a cruel cruel woman but I love you! Kudos for writing such an AMAZING series and I am definitely gonna be looking out for more of your books in the future.
I still kinda hate you though...just kidding...not really...❤❤❤

I leave you with this beautiful poem





5 HEART WRENCHING, SOUL SHATTERING, BEAUTIFUL STARS

[Crystal Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

I believe there are soul mates and there are true loves. I believe this is true for every person on this earth, that awe each have these in two separate persons. The feelings and emotions are the same but different, on different levels but on the same plane.

Most of the books lately are all about insta-love. These are not by any means. Lori Otto takes you on a journey of friendship, family, love, regret, loss, healing...just so many emotions enfolded into a beautiful story. You simply cannot read about Emi, Nate and Jack and not hope and pray that you have that or someday have what they did. Their story is not easy, yet it is beautiful too.

I am completely in awe of Ms. Otto and her writing. This story....this story is absolutely beautiful and will stay with you forever. It will make you see love in a whole new light. So thank you Lori Otto for bringing, and taking away, these characters and creating this amazingly beautiful story.

[Dirty Dayna · Rating 5 out of 5]

The complete Emi lost and found series
5 Found Stars
This is one of those gems I discovered by being a member of Goodreads. MY obsession started with the free prequel Not today but someday and I decided since this was one of the most amazing prequels I just had to buy the series. I read the prequel in Jun of 14 (review to follow)
This is the prequel to the series and serious this is one of the best prequels I have ever run into and I am lucky and got to snag this one for free.
Emi was moved in the middle of her school year after discovering her father cheating in public. She has to transfer school and find something besides chocolate to consume because chocolate reminds her of her father feeding his mistress strawberries and chocolate. After she fights going to school for 4 days she finally goes to school and walks into it blindly. She is not ready to be happy, to find love or even friendship for fear of another betrayal she can’t handle.
Nate comes off at the beginning as a little rough around the edges and just floating through campus after his girlfriend left him for his friend.
Emi and her sister have a falling out because her sister comes home and tells her she is pregnant and getting married after 2 months of knowing someone and Emi takes off into the city she doesn’t know. Nate tries to find her and figure out what haunts her so besides the color of her eyes. Due to the weather being very bad Nate brings her to his house (or mansion) and they stay up painting and listening to music.
Nate is a wise character and says many profound things while he is still a teenager (so there are those teenagy moments)
Emi and Nate have that perfect friendship and you vie for a perfect relationship Not today, but maybe someday. They make bets against each other and I love their easy banter. Emi convinced Nate to quit smoking by saying they will have their last smoke together (it was Emis first time) and Emi also bet Nate if they both take a 1.5 year oath of celibacy they may be together. Not today, but maybe someday

After this I debated how to buy the series individually or the entire thing. Needless to say 9 dollars for 4 books was a hell of a deal for me so I bought it Oct 14. But somewhere along the line I forgot about it so I decided my new year’s resolution was to pull at least 30 of my TBR books that just had to be read and challenged myself to read them. Since I already read the prequel I skipped that in the book and went right into the series. This is one of those series that you honestly won’t completely love the first book unless you read the prequel so I am glad it is included in the complete series. This book gave me every emotion and it was one of those series I just told everyone about the entire journey.

It starts off with the friendship of Nate and Emi. And them going through the emotions of being friends even though Nate is in love with Emi and all along Emi is trying to find the transcendent kiss that rocked her world.
Nine years is a long time to hold on to a feeling-one that I felt for only 10 seconds of my life
I totally used Randi that night…and she wouldn’t be the first woman I would use to keep my attraction to my best friend in check.

my last night in New York, and I’m planning to spend it with Kiersten. With a woman I’ve chosen over the girl I love. It doesn’t make sense to me. It shouldn’t be this way

Emi believes that Nate is the man who kissed her 9 years ago who left her feeling like she needed that kiss for the rest of her life and she gets together with Nate and both families are on cloud 9.

After a month of an intense relationship they discover they are soul mates which is how book 1 ends.

In book 2 its starts off with Emi and Nate headed to a convenient store for a pregnancy book, some chocolate and a giraffe. As Emi and Nate are driving back to the hotel Nate gives her a gift of a stuffed giraffe that says One transcendent kiss, that later makes lovers take, soft breaths holding hands.
and that’s the last thing she ever got from Nate. She lost everything that night. And it took me 3 days to come back to this book. It destroyed me that Nate died in the first line of the second book
In book 2 we deal with loss and how Emi overcomes it. I completely feel like Emi was right in her grief. You can feel her emotions in every sentence she tells us
these tears today Nate. I don’t know if they will every stop. I know I’ll never stop loving you. I can’t imagine not missing you, every minute, every hour, and every day. I don’t know if it will get any easier. I hope it does. But I hope you know that if I cry fewer tears, that don’t mean I love you any less. You were my soul mate. No one else can ever be that to me. We were to each other. We get to keep that part of each other.
Nate I don’t know why god decided it was your time…or why he couldn’t take me with you. Some days I don’t think I’m strong enough to handle it…so if you can watch out for me…and give me some strength when I need it. … Love doesn’t die, but people do…my love for Nate is something I will carry with me forever

I cried for an entire day over book 2 … it destroys you
In book 3 we see Emi moving on with her life accepting that Nate left and loving Jack. At first I was so angry that Emi moved on but then I realized … Nate wasn’t her transcendent kiss Jack was. And understanding that was a deep thing for me. I was able to see Emi in another light and I was able to see how deeply they cared for each other. My heart hurts for Nate to this day… but this ending was perfectly sad, surreal, loving, and satisfying. You have complete character growth along the way and even Emi’s childish demeanor at times faded

[Gina · Rating 4 out of 5]

It is hard to write a review for this story without giving away spoilers. But for those who are perusing the site looking for something to read, I would recommend the Lost and Found Series. And so begins my review with it's many spoilers...
I have never read a series that the author starts the beginning of the second book by killing off the main love interest. What?? My world was shattered as I had begun to love Nate, not for his assuming good looks and charm, but because he loved one girl to the depths of his soul. I had survived the roller coaster of their love affair through the first book and the world looked so bright. Then came book two, Time Stands Still and for several chapters in my world time stood still too. There have been very few books that I have read through a veil of tears. This was one of them. I actually sobbed at points because I felt the author really conveyed the very raw emotion of grief in Emi and all those who surrounded her. I had to mourn myself as my idea of Nate was crushed on that New Year's Eve. So the second book for me and probably Emi was a mourning period. I was not ready for Jack to immerse himself into the picture so quickly. The author knew this too, so Jack slowly made his way into the story and into Emi's heart. Of course Jack could be nothing short of a saint or this story would have never worked. It was only through his patience and generous spirit that I allowed myself to slowly accept that Emi must move on. Book Three, Never Look Back, brought it all full circle. Emi, was her most annoying self in this book. Frustrating beyond belief at times. Pushing away the most important thing in her life. Never believing that she should be happy. The author still managed to find ways to make Nate a background character and I still found ways to cry. Happy ending? I wouldn't say that. Who really has that? Happy in spite of circumstance is more like it. I feel that they made the best of a situation and love played the central role. God gives you only what you can take and blesses you two fold for the suffering. I think in the end Emi and Jack received their blessing for a happy life. But I will always miss Nate.

[Anjuli · Rating 5 out of 5]

I laughed, I cried, I experienced every emotion possible with this series, and I do not regret it.

This series is truly amazing, my absolute favorite of the year. I had to mentally prepare myself in order to meet and devote my time to these characters.

First, Nate. I loved everything about him. He was artistic and passionate and the most lovable screw-up I have had the pleasure of reading about. His impulsive nature just drew me in, and I couldn't get enough. He also managed to break my heart and crush my soul, through no fault of his own. The moment I met him I had no choice but to fall in love with him.

Emi, on the other hand, managed to frustrate me with her stupid stubbornness. I experienced everything she did and could do nothing but share her pain. Like Nate, she was artistic, impulsive, but where he was extremely passionate she was slightly more reserved. I loved her free-spirit and could not handle her idealistic views, but even that endeared me to her.

Jack, always patient, careful, meticulous, just the complete opposite of Nate, and I was still rooting for him. He is the first "3rd wheel" I have ever cheered on whole-heartedly. I tend to always like one more than the other, but with Jack I couldn't help but love him just as much as Nate.

THIS SERIES IS A MUST READ & A MUST RE-READ. A box of tissues, a few glasses of wine, and a comfortable bed where you can lay in the fetal position is recommended. I have never cried so much or loved a series as much as I did/do with this series.

[Sophie · Rating 2 out of 5]

I wanted so much to like this book, having read all the glowing reviews about it.

Lost & Found started out okay for me, although I found it a bit slow. By Book 2 (Time Stands Still), I found it excruciating to read. Not in the sense that it was extremely sad, but that I found Emi so very unlikeable. I just couldn't relate to her at all. Like I read in someone else's review, I felt like I was on the outside looking in, and I could not sympathize with Emi at all. She seemed to bounce from grief to recovery every couple of pages, so much so that I didn't find the story very believable.

Emi as a character, despite how long the story was drawn out, didn't seem very developed to me. I feel like the author didn't really make me understand just what it was about her that made both Nate and Jack fall so madly in love with her. My impression of her is flighty, indecisive, impractical, and overall just a big flirt. She also seems to like her wine a bit too much (I was actually half-expecting it to be revealed later in the book that she was an alcoholic). I also didn't like the way the word "fuck" was thrown in every couple of sentences, like that was such a basic part of her vocabulary.

For someone who is supposedly independent and used to being alone, Emi sure likes having her men take care of her. Not wearing a coat when she knows it's going to be cold out, just because it's going to ruin her outfit just screams damsel-in-distress to me, not something I particularly admire in a protagonist. And just what is it with the pigtails? I can't imagine one man, much less two, being "driven crazy" about them.

As for the first and third parts of the series being told in the male point of view, I didn't really feel that "masculine" tone. I lost count of how many times both men kept sighing in awe of Emi's beauty, her dimples and her "pale green eyes." In parts of the book where there was continuous dialogue, I had to consciously keep track of which character was saying which line, because they all sounded like one voice to me.

I found it hard to believe that Emi and Jack had never crossed paths in all the time Jack had been best friends with Emi's brother, Chris. There was also a part in the book where Jack invited Emi and Chris to a hockey game and getting good seats seemed like such a novelty to Chris. In all the years they'd been friends, he had never been the recipient of Jack's famous generosity?

Jack on the other hand, I found too good to be true -- kind, generous, a multi-millionaire (!), and single to boot, pining for ten years over a drunk girl he kissed once at a frat party.

The only character I probably really liked in the book was Anna. I wish there had been more about her in the book.

Aside from the story, there were so many misspelled words that just really took away from my enjoyment of the book. Some of them (italics mine):

"What are you thinking"? I ask, kissing her earlobe discretely.

I feel his hand discretely pressing down on top of mine.

I don't care that you can't bare our children.

"but it's colors are so rich. It's beautiful..."

There was also one part near the end of the book that had me raising an eyebrow.

"It was difficult for her foster parents to say goodbye, especially when the alligator tears streamed from Livvy's big brown eyes."

"Alligator tears"? Really?

This is a 1.5-star (out of 5) book for me. I'm giving it 2 stars only because there's no option to give half and because it's not as bad as other 1- (or 0-) star books that I've read.

Overall, this was a story that was just long-drawn-out for me, and one that I feel could have been better told in maybe half the length of the actual book. When I was just purchasing this book, I was looking forward to waiting for the rest of the books in the Choisie series to be released so I could read them in one go. Now though, I don't think I will be purchasing those books after all. As it is, I'm still agonizing over the fact that I still have "Not Today, but Someday" to read. It now feels a bit like homework I don't want to but have to do, to me.

[Lydia's Bookshelf · Rating 5 out of 5]

See COMPLETE post here with more INFO: http://heabookshelf.blogspot.com/2013...

"I believe all things happen for a reason, though... and sometimes it takes a while to figure out that reason."

*DEEPEST SIGH EVER*
I had a permanent case of swollen eyes and tension head ache while reading this series. Seriously. Never in my life had a book caused me to feel SO MANY EMOTIONS at the same time. To say this was one hell of a rollercoaster, wouldn't even begin to cover it.

The writing style was just incredible. I felt like I knew these characters, like they were real and very much a part of my life. Book one, Lost & Found, is written in Nate's POV. I'm a sucker for male point of views, and Nate had me eating out of his hand. LOVED HIM!!!!!!!! aaaaaahhh!! I truly loved Nate. Book two, Time Stands Still, is written in Emi's POV, and book three, Never Look Back, is written in Jack's POV. Again, LOVED reading a book from a male POV and just like with Nate, I was a goner with Jack.

So, about these characters....
I absolutely loved Nate and Emi since the prequel and had already established a deep emotional connection with them. They both made me laugh, get angry, and just hands down, feel like I was about to have an anxiety attack! Nate made me swoon more times than I care to admit. He was just so... NATE. *sigh* He made everyone feel special and loved.
Emi... oh, Emi. My heart broke for her SO.MANY.TIMES. Especially, during book two. Lori Otto definitely put her through the ringer... in MANY, MANY, MAAAAAAANY ways.
Jack was truly AMAZING..... there are no words that can describe how much I loved his character. He was so patient and caring. He too, made me swoon A LOT.
Chris, Emi's brother, was THE best brother EVER - can't stress this enough. I loved reading about him just as much as I did about the main characters. Honestly, all the secondary characters were great - very well developed and definitely added more depth to the story. Oh, and Clara, Emi's niece, was just too darn cute!!!!!!!!! HAD to mention her.

In order to keep my promise about this being a spoiler-free review, I won't go into the plot. But I will say this....

I thought I knew what it meant to "ugly-cry".... but no. I definitely did NOT know. It wasn't until this series, that I truly found out what it meant. I cried... and cried.. and cried... I reached a point where I literally had to put down my Kindle because I could NOT take the pain I was feeling. My heart was SHATTERED into a million pieces... I felt like Lori Otto had literally put it in a blender!!!!!!! I swear, never in my life had I cried SO HARD while reading a book! NEVER.
Thankfully, by the end of the series, my heart had been slowly put back together. Just as it had been broken, it had healed through Emi's journey. The ending was BEAUTIFUL. I found myself crying, uh-gain, but this time, they were happy tears.

Even though I feel that there were a few scenes that might have been dragged out, the overall pace of this series was perfect and very realistic. Yes, your heart will break, but it will also heal. Trust me. I couldn't have asked for a better ending. Now, I'm just wondering how I will read another book while feeling hung over from the Emi Lost & Found Series. Lori Otto, I'm a HUGE FAN.

I HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS SERIES.

[Megan • Reading Books Like a Boss (book blog) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Overall rating of the series: 4.5 stars. <3
_________________________

Find more of my reviews and other bookish things here:

✥ My blog Reading Books Like a Boss
✥ Like on Facebook
✥ Follow on Twitter

[Tricia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fantastic series! Worth every moment of reading and every tear! This sat on my Kindle for a very long time, thank you to my favorite booking friends for encouraging me to start and supporting me through it all.

[Jill · Rating 5 out of 5]

WOW!

[Kelli Spear · Rating 5 out of 5]

It all comes back to Book Bash. I've never been so excited to attend an event in my life. There were so many great authors appearing; most of them I had read their work or heard of them. I had a blast meeting and chatting with a good number of them and thought I had met all that I cared about. At the time, I was correct. My biggest regret is not discovering the Emi Lost and Found series before my Florida trip.
Through many contests and friends who like author pages, I had managed to like Lori Otto's author page. However, I hadn't a clue what she had written. My book twin (an online friend who shares the love for the exact same books as me) had told me prior to Book Bash that I should read the Emi series. With a TBR list as long as mine is (over 800 books now), I said I would eventually. She urged me to do so before the event but I didn't listen. So, after returning, I came across a FB post by Lori Otto and it was titled, "Book Bash - Lessons Learned". I automatically assumed that it could only be a happy article considering the success of the event.
I started reading it and instantly my heart broke for this woman. The guilt kicked in as well. I'm sure I walked past her table and never glanced over. I was on a mission to see about 20 authors and sadly, she wasn't on my list. I have never felt more horrible in my entire life. Read the blog post here: http://bit.ly/15kINA6
I shared this post with my aforementioned book twin and she immediately made fun of me for skipping Lori's table which only made me feel worse. She once again stressed that I needed to read this series ASAP. And as before, I told her I would at some point. A few weeks later, I saw another post from Lori that asked if any bloggers would like to review the Emi Lost & Found series. I should add here that I had absolutely NO IDEA what these books were even about. I hadn't read the synopses or any reviews, but figured, "Why not?" My book twin swore I'd love them, so I sent Lori a message. Shortly thereafter the series bundle was in my email. By now I had been warned that I'd need a lot of tissues to get through them. Things were backed up on the blog, so it took a few weeks before I began this venture.
A few things about me before I start my thoughts on Emi:
1.) I've been reading since I was 4 years old. I can count on one hand the number of times I've bawled my eyes out while reading. The very first was Charlotte's Web and I never was able to forget it. I'm not a crier whatsoever. It takes extreme sadness before I'll get upset enough to form actual tears.
2.) I do tear up in books. When something is sweet, I will get a welling up in my eyes, but nothing more.
3.) I've read hundreds of books and can easily choose a top 5 of all-time. I pretty much thought this list was permanent and impossible for anything newer to break into.
In this day and age, technology allows us to do nearly everything. Before, authors had limited options - if you didn't get a publishing deal, there were no alternatives. Nowadays, many choose to self-publish and I actually have found I enjoy indies more than big house published works. But there's also a downside to self-publishing and that's advertising and getting your name and books out there. In the grand scheme of things, not many people have discovered Emi yet. This series feels like a secret that I've been let in on. And as much as I usually love to keep things I love to myself, I feel the need to share this one.
I'm not much of a note taker or highlighter when reading. I'll typically highlight a couple quotes, if any, in an entire book. The Emi Lost and Found series changed that for me. My Notes app on my iPhone got more use in the past week than ever before. You're probably thinking, "A week? I thought you loved this series. Why did it take you so long to finish?" The answer: emotional devastation. Yep. I can't think of any other way to describe what took place while I participated in my favorite hobby. I'd been warned but didn't take said warning seriously enough. I went in blind and got the full experience. I wouldn't change a thing in the way I went about it. My recommendation for future readers is to avoid spoilers as much as possible. Don't even read the book summary on Goodreads. Trust me, you'll appreciate everything much more this way.
I'm not even going to post a summary here. All I want to do is post some of my thoughts and emotions that I experienced throughout. From the title, you realize it's most likely the story of a woman named Emi - and it is. But it's A LOT more as well. This series runs the gamut of emotions. I felt everything from pure joy and happiness to absolute devastation. All of that just in the very first book, Lost and Found. It's written from a male point of view (which I absolutely adore) and it was wonderful to get to know the girl from how HE saw her. It's so easy to fall in love with EVERY character in these books. Every. Single. One.
Can you get PTSD from reading a book? Because I still haven't recovered from the distress I suffered at the hands of Lori Otto. I absolutely LOVED book one. It is literary perfection. Great love story, great characters, perfect pacing - why would I need Kleenex? Oh. The end of the book makes things clear. I cannot even lie, I needed a break after finishing. You get left hanging and though the direction the story is heading seems clear, you're holding out hope that things will turn out the opposite of what you're fearing. After about a half hour (and a quick chat with the book twin), I started book two. The immediate reaction was relief. Seconds later this was followed by complete heartbreak and heartache. Cue the ugly cries. Instant, complete, and utter devastation at the hands of my iPad. I felt betrayed. How could she (Otto) do this to us?? It wasn't fair! I should mention this was within the first few pages of book two, Time Stands Still. After sobbing for what seemed like an hour (it was probably 15 minutes), I decided I couldn't continue that night. Instead, I took a two day reading break. Yes, this affected me THAT much. I did some more chatting with the book twin and she assured me that I needed to get back to the story. She promised things would get better. So I did it. I went back and tortured myself some more. Intense doesn't begin to cover it. I cried. I sobbed. I bawled. A lot. Constantly. Take my word when I say that you and Emi will become one. I felt every emotion as if I was in the story. I could have been Emi. Eventually, the story got better - by better I mean happier. Things were starting to look up and then I got sucker punched again and again and again. It was starting to feel like this sadness would never end. And I had mixed feelings about how things were playing out. I wanted happiness but it felt like that was a betrayal. But things DO get better. Significantly so. And you finally feel like the devastation is bearable. The end of book two caused my ugly cries once again. Those stuck around for the beginning of book three, Never Look Back.
Book three is beautiful. The story is ready to conclude, and as much as you want it to end, you also don't. You want it to go in forever. This book is about moving on and it too is filled with some agonizing moments. These characters have come a long way since the first book and it's beautiful to watch them grow.
This series is phenomenal. There isn't a weak book to be found and that is extremely rare. Each book is written from a different character's point of view and this adds to the magnificence of the overall story. You really get to know the characters and never have reason to question their decisions. I was captivated from the first page and was spellbound until the very last page of book 3. Emi Lost and Found is so real that I felt physically sick and experienced actual pain. I literally had to squeeze my chest because my heart felt broken. And this reaction happened throughout, not just in one instance. Even during my reading breaks, the story stuck with me. I found myself thinking about the story and the characters and wondering how things would end. And of course, frustrated with things they did. Not to mention the fact that I was upset with the author for what SHE did. Before you start, make sure to get a reading buddy - a partner to experience it all with. You'll need all the virtual handholding you can get.
Emi Lost and Found is the diamond in the rough, the needle in the haystack - books like this come along once in a blue moon. Never has a book or series hit me this hard. NEVER. I've never been this emotionally attached either. I have a feeling this one is going to be hard to let go of. It's insanity that more people aren't reading these books. It has to be said: this is the most brilliant, emotional, touching, and captivating series ever written. Emi Lost and Found has taken the top spot on my All-Time Favorite Series List - nothing else comes close. The rating scale doesn't even factor high enough for me to be fair. Just know that it's incomparable in every aspect.
After finishing, I realized I owed Lori an apology. I was part of the readers who let her down at Book Bash. In turn, I lost out on meeting someone who created the most realistic and unforgettable characters I've ever had the pleasure to discover. So, here is my apology, in the form of my rambling review. And I hope that all bookworms find Emi for themselves.

Also, a special thanks to my book twin for harassing me daily to read this series! You rock!

[Christine · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow. Just wow. To be honest, I have so many things I want to say about these books that I am finding it hard to put it into words. These were some of the best books I have read, to date. They touched on every human emotion possible and at times I had to put the book down because I was so consumed with emotions.



I will admit that I had the Ugly Cry. Actually, this even goes beyond the Ugly Cry, if you can imagine that!!!! Parts of the books, I had a huge lump in my throat and others I was cheering like a cheerleader! Although there were 4 in this series and it took me a few days, I could not put them down. I am also glad, that I had not read any reviews of these books because I was not expecting half of what happened. I don’t even know where to begin and I don’t want to tell you too much because it would be a shame if you decide to read these books and I give to much away…but I will give it a shot.



The first book, the prequel, takes place when Emi (main character) is in high school. Her family has fallen apart and she is left in a very dark, cynical state of mind.

Enter Nate, another student not in the best of places and once they meet, a friendship ignites.

Throughout these books, their friendship takes many twists and turns and grows stronger year by year. Over the course of these years, on more than one occasion they realize that there is more than just friendship there but neither are willing to risk the friendship that they have, to attempt to have a relationship that might not work out.



However, after many years, the time comes when they give a relationship a chance and start to date. I have to admit that what happens next almost had me stopping this series. I felt my heart was being torn out into a million pieces and I think I cried for 10 minutes straight. I am so glad that I pulled myself together and forged on!!!!!

Tragedy strikes this couple and the rest of the books are about putting your life back together after the unspeakable happens and learning to love and trust again. It is about healing your heart and your mind. It shows just how much one person can take and test them, over and over and having them come out on top. I could seriously sit here and write a 5 page review trying to touch on poignant moments throughout these books, trying to convey all the feelings that I felt and quote funny lines or touch on sad moments but I truly believe they deserve better than anything that I could write in this review. They without a shadow of a doubt, deserve to be read.

So go get some tissues, put on some comfy clothes, make sure you either take your eye make-up off or have waterproof mascara on, settle in and read them. You will not be disappointed, I promise you. I hope you loved the story as much as I did.

[Daiana · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love these books and I highly recommend them. <3

Lori does an amazing job. You will really get into the story and will go through each feeling the characters are experiencing. That's what I love about this story.

All the characters are very real, you will disagree with them at times, you'll be happy and sad, you'll cry or at least feel like crying, you'll heal and grow with them.

I believe it's an amazing story and you won't regret giving it a chance.

[Picola · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you have not read this book you need to get on board ASAP. This is truly on of the best books we're not reading and not talking about. It's one of the best books I've read. There are some books that just take you "there". This is one of those books.

[Mindy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Yay!! This series is going under my favorites list!! Emi, Nate, and Jack...these characters will stay with me for a long time.

[Judith · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this series! I just finished this morning and my emotions are still so raw and intense. This an emotional romantic series that needs to be read by those who love romance.

[Lea · Rating 5 out of 5]

When I discovered the first book in this series, I honestly didn’t know what to anticipate, but my expectations were not very high. I had found it on a blog's list of freebies back when I first started reading Indie books. I mean…it was free. At the time, this was insane to me. FREE! Now, and partially in thanks to this book, I download tons of freebies and have found so many other hidden gems this way.

In the beginning, it seemed like it would be a typical, cute, “best friends turned lovers” type of story. In some ways, it was, but it had ingredients that I live for—angst and tension. If you are not a fan of those things, don’t worry, it’s not an excessive amount, but it was definitely enough to keep me interested.

But, most importantly…it had Nate.

Nate Wilson is talented, sexy, chivalrous, sweet and loving—his critics would say maybe a little too loving, at times. He is, in a nutshell, amazing.
I spent the majority of the first book envious of the history between Nate and his best friend since high school, Emi Hennigan. No matter what goes on in either of their lives, he seems to put her first, and you almost feel sorry for his girlfriends—almost. You just know Emi and Nate are meant to be together, and after a frustrating series of events, it seems they may finally get what you want for them.

I won’t go into much detail about the book, or the series, because it’s impossible to do so without giving away too much. All I will say is this—just like a boy scout, the motto when reading this series is: be prepared. Stock up on your favorite flavor of ice cream and a ton of Kleenex. Trust me.

When I finish a book that someone touted as an “ugly cry,” I am usually left just feeling sad. Sometimes I even get a little pissed, thinking there is something wrong with me, or maybe it was just missing the depth I needed to truly connect to the characters. Whatever it is, I am not a crier. I can name two books, maybe three, that have ever brought me even close to tears. So, when I found reviews where people claimed this series ripped their hearts out, or that they couldn’t finish it because it was too sad, I was pretty skeptical. However, these types of statements make me need to read a book so I immediately got it. I am ashamed to say that I waited a couple of months before I actually read it, but once I started, I could not put it down. I lived in an Otto Bubble for a week straight, and I am certain my husband thought I was crazy, given the amount of sobbing he witnessed.

Oh, you will coast through that first book, thinking, "What's the big deal?" Do not worry...you will get there. It will hit you and it will suck. The tablet will be thrown across the room or--if you're like me--it will go in the freezer. Oh, and then you will hate whoever recommended this book to you. I have tortured many friends with this series, and have received enough hate texts and scathing Facebook messages to develop a serious complex. Yet, whenever someone asks for a book recommendation, this is generally the first one out of my mouth.

In the second book, one of the main characters is recovering from serious trauma--both to their body and heart--and you feel every bit of that pain, and then some. I have never read anything that made me feel so fused to a fictional character's agony as Time Stands Still did--no, I wasn't just connected to them, I was that character, the writing is that amazing. Ms. Otto’s ability to make you fall in love with her characters is unsurpassed by any other I have experienced. I read these books over nine months ago and I still get teary-eyed when thinking of the storyline. The way she builds you up and brings you to a happy, sweet place right before she takes a sledgehammer to your heart, obliterating it to dust, is actually slightly cruel, albeit genius. You will probably want to hunt her down and punch her in the face; I know I did. But somehow she manages to vacuum up every last piece of that vital organ and, particle by particle, reconstruct you a new one…via Jack.

I cannot even being to describe how fantastic Jack is. He is the most patient, compassionate and loving man. It’s infuriating…and if you think you love him throughout Emi Lost and Found, just wait until you read Contessa!

At the close of the series, after you’ve run through the gamut of every emotion possible, you will be happy. Ecstatic. Things will feel right—even if you were reluctant for them to ever be right again. Makes no sense, yeah? Read the series, it will make perfect sense.

I love books that make me feel, any type of emotion, whether it be misery, hate, love, etc., and this one series managed to evoke almost everything from me. If I could give this series, more than 5 stars, I would. If I could buy a copy for everyone I talked to, I would.

[Sugar and Spice Book Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

* This review is on all three books. I tried really, really hard not to include any major spoilers but it is very difficult to summarize this series without doing that.

And the award for making me do the UGLIEST CRY EVER while reading a series goes to Lori Otto! Definitely one of my favorite series ever! Me and my book besties were discussing the series....if Lori didn't personally experience some of the things that happened in this book then she is plain and simple a master at making you feel emotions. I felt every single emotion as if I was Emi.....the emotions were soooo strong I literally had to put the book down for several days and come back because my grief was so intense.....I COULD NOT BREATHE!!!! Overall rating for the entire series, 4.5 emotionally, intense stars!!!


Book 1- Lost and Found

This is the story of Emi and Nate. The two have been best friends for years. They have watched each other grow into adults, all while having feelings for each other. Nate's feelings are stronger than Emi's...Emi is more in denial but she soon discovers that there is do denying what she feels for Nate.

Through it all, they fight their feelings. Nate dates other women because he doesn't want to ruin his friendship with Emi. Emi gets hurts and is jealous. Time and Time again, they push the other away and it is heartbreaking and frustrating to watch, when you just know these two are meant to be together.

After multiple setbacks, it seems that things may be starting to look up for these two. Will Emi and Nate's friendship survive? Can these two get their crap together? Can they be more than just friends? Then Wham.....Holy Cliffhanger!!!

“one transcendent kiss
that later makes lovers take
soft breaths, holding hands”

Book 2- Time Stands Still

Best book of the series, the one I was most affected by and definitely the hardest to summarizes without spoliers.

I just want to say.......WWWHHHHHHYYYYYY? *insert hysterical, snotty sobs*

And please have several boxes of tissues handy because your heart will be crushed to smithereens! I think I literally cried for days straight while reading this book. I even had to put the book down for several days just to breathe.

In Time Stands Still, Emi is trying to pick up the pieces of her life and move on after it has just been shattered. Her sole reason for living has been taken from her and she is literally living in the dark....in a nightmare. How do you get up everyday and face life when it means nothing anymore? With the help of her family and friends Emi tries to move on from her loss but experiences a lot of tears and heartbreak but maybe...maybe Emi may eventually find joy in one person.



Book 3- Never Look Back

Ahhhhhhh after having our hearts crushed, Lori puts the pieces back together again!

Never Look Back is the conclusion to Emi's story and the characters we have become so invested in their lives and grown to love.

Emi has faced the demons that has came along with her tremendous lost and she still has things to work through but she is doing this daily with Jack's help. Of course, things can not go easily for Emi and the one thing she and Jack really want, she finds out is never going to happen. Once again, Emi is left trying to figure her life out again.

Emi and Jack's relationship is tested, but Emi is strong, and with Jack there beside her, their love can overcome anything. I was sad to see this series end, and while my heart may still be a little sad, I am happy to see Emi become the amazing, strong woman she has become.



Final thoughts

PLEASE Read this series please! Don't judge it by the cover because this series is FANTASTIC....emotional, heart-breaking, intense, invigorating......a MUST read!

[Heather M. Orgeron · Rating 5 out of 5]

As a whole I am giving Emi Lost & Found Series 4.5 stars.

Book 1 had me extremely frustrated. Nate and Emi both drove me insane. But, I was still captivated... I had to know what would happen. For all that Nate drove me bat-shit crazy, I managed to completely fall in love with him in the last 15-20%
------------------------------------

Book 2-This is the masterpiece of this trilogy. And below is my review of book 2.. I felt it deserved a full review.. I could have written pages on the beauty of this book but I try not to include tmi for those who have not yet read and may be browsing reviews.

It is really hard to express how affected I was by this book. I feel like I literally had my heart crushed over and over and over. I grieved. I cried more than I have ever cried reading a book. Don't get me wrong, lots of books have touched me and brought me to tears. This book was brutal... Most books will break your heart and quickly put it back together. This is not that book. Emi's reaction is SO real.. Her loss so great and her pain all consuming, gut-wrenching,... just heartbreaking.

"...love ya, Em. Hold me."

HOLY SHIT! Grab the tissue and buckle up for a LOOOOONG cry.

The first few pages of Time Stands Still broke my heart... and the first chapter crushed it... I felt like I was living my worst nightmare.. truly experiencing it with Emi.

He had changed me for the better. He showed me love, like I never knew it... only to have it stolen from me way too soon. We didn't have enough time.

How do you pick up the pieces of your life, when you have lost your reason to live?

"Are you hurt?"
"Yes."
Where?" he asks, his hands lightly touching my shoulders.
"My heart," I exhale in a sob."

SOB SOB SOB SOB... I cried literally for HOURS.. just when it seemed like things would settle down.. WHAM! Exactly how I imagine this type of loss would be. You don't get over it quickly.. its not something that will ever truly heal.

"...I know I'll never stop loving you. I can't imagine not missing you, every minute, every hour, every day. I don't know if it will get any easier. I hope it does... but I hope you know that if I cry fewer tears, that doesn't mean I love you any less..."

This book is beautifully written... I don't think anyone has ever captured grief so honestly. The pain and suffering, the anger and sadness, and the guilt of trying to move on. Emi suffers so much with what she "should" feel.

I don't remember being concerned at all for our baby. I don't know why. And I feel guilty.

"...there is no timeline for grief, no one-size-fits-all plan for healing. Everyone has different needs..."

--------------------------------------

Book 3- Emi and Jack are faced with some pretty heavy issues.. I LOVE Jack... I did not want to.. I had an idea in book one where this series was going even before the big accident in book 2.. and I was upset.. I did not want to like Jack.. well not only do I like him.. I LOVE him.. I thought this was the perfect ending to this beautiful trilogy..


--------------------------------------------------


So.. now I need at least a week to recover from the emotional turmoil my heart and mind are still in. Fantastic series.. amazingly beautiful characters.. heart felt writing.. Just beautiful!

[Cristina · Rating 4 out of 5]

Review:

I absolutely loved reading this series and I was pleasantly surprised at how much I loved it. Since I read all three books within a few days there were moments that I felt the story could move a bit quicker, it almost seemed to drag in certain parts but overall I thought it was fabulous! I seriously loved all three books!

This is the story about Emi and her quest to find her true love, and she does find it. She finds it with the most perfect man possible, Nate and I loved everything about him and I loved how they totally avoided the feelings they had for each other. The push and pull between them was fantastic because it wasn't rushed and I was so thankful for that.

Emi and Nate don't get together right away because they're afraid of their feelings for one another and jealousy takes over to make things difficult putting a major strain on their friendship. Oh how I love the drama!!! They were arguing over the littlest things and honestly, it was driving me batty because I wasn't sure if they would make it or not.

Luckily the drama doesn't last forever and they circle back to one another only to overcome more obstacles. However, the way they fall in love with each other will take your breath away. Book 1 might be my favorite of all three.

Time Stands Still (#2) broke my heart into a thousand pieces. I did NOT see that twist coming at all!!! I almost threw my kindle out the window Bradley Cooper style (that'll only make sense if you saw the film Silver Linings Playbook) but I didn't because I had to know how things would turn out. I needed Nate back in the picture because I fell for him so hard in Lost and Found (#1). WHYEEEEEEEEEEE did Lori Otto have to take my heart and crush it?! Was that really necessary? *sniff*

Enter Jack. I didn't want to like Jack but as the story progressed I loved him, although I did feel like I was cheating on Nate most of the time. While Emi is still healing from everything, Jack is there showing her life still goes on and that happiness is possible.

Never Look Back (#3) is the wonderful continuation and the final installment to this heartbreaking series. It wrapped up not nicely, but incredibly real. I felt all the emotions of the real life situations that Emi suffered. It's her journey about falling in love with two men, about healing, growing and ultimately finding peace.

“Nine years is a long time to hold on to a feeling – one that I felt for only ten seconds of my life. Logically, I know it was twenty seconds at most, but the impact if left made it seem like forever.”

I can't and won't touch on all the topics that moved me because it will spoil the story and you all know how much I love the element of surprise and I refuse to do that to anyone who is considering reading this series. With that being said, if you are in the mood for great writing, a thoughtful and moving story...go forth and one-click! :)

[Lisa Karafa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lost and Found takes us to Nate and Emi’s relationship about 10 years after meeting one another. They are both adults working in their chosen career fields. Nate is a fine artist, and Emi a graphic artist/designer.


Nate, the quintessential player, dates many women through his 20s. Emi, does date a bit, but not near to the scale that Nate does. When Nate’s girlfriends begin to show tendencies of jealousy toward Emi, Nate makes some difficult and potentially damaging choices where his friendship with Emi is concerned.


When Chris and Anna get engaged, we are introduced to Jack Holland. Chris’s frat brother from college, Jack will be the best man at the wedding. With Emi as the maid of honor, they will be working together on certain aspects of the wedding preparations. Lost and Found takes us up to Chris and Anna’s engagement party on New Year’s Eve.


When you get to this point in the series, make sure you have tissues at the ready. Not a purse pack mind you, a brand spanking new large size box.


Not wanting to give away any more of the plot in this wonderful series, Time Stands Still and Never Look Back take us deeper into the lives of these complex characters. Just as a warning, this includes some gut wrenching, ugly crying chapters that will leave you feeling the excruciating pain that these lovely people endure with what happens early in book #2.

After the worst of the emotional situation settles, there will still be times where tear dabbing with tissues will be necessary, but I never felt it got to the point where I could not continue reading.

Reading this series was made even more enjoyable for me as I did it as a participant in a group read led by Lori herself. She invited bloggers to go on a virtual scavenger hunt, asking questions about certain events throughout the book and if answered correctly, the reader collected a badge. RMWTPC successfully completed all the badge activities!

I cannot say enough good things about this series. It was wonderfully crafted from start to finish and I am looking forward to reading the companion piece “Contessa” when my schedule allows.

[Mayas · Rating 5 out of 5]

In Life you have soul mates and true love and this book express both. Emi and Nate was meant to be but through life they remained friends above anything until they could not fight the attraction for each other that everyone knew and anticipated. I fell in love with their banter, laughed when they laughed, cried when they cried (even when they didn't), and celebrated the coming of life and new adventures.

I was on an emotional rollercoaster when I started the second book and screamed as if it happened to me. I was in love with a fictional character and couldn't understand "WHY". I hate to give spoilers but I am happy for the life that Emi experienced with Nate and the life Jack wanted her to experience with him. 'Love ya, Em.' *tears*

I am in the end happy Jack understood and helped Emi in her healing and remembering the GREAT nature of the soul mate even though he was the true love. This book is a MUST read and please have plenty of tissue. Experience real life events and emotions in a fictional form.

[Alexandra · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wow!!! I don't even know what to say about this series...it was great, but at the same time i had to put the books down so many times i lost count. This is the story of Emi, Nate and Jack. I loved them all, and my heart broke for them constantly. I love the love story between Nate and Emi (high school friends who were attracted to each other, but didn't act on it in fear of ruining their friendship)and i loved Nate. Then the unsuspected happened and I lost it, the same as Emi. I took me 1 week to finish the 2nd book, i was crying so much. Than Jack happened ( he met Emi 13 year earlier at a party and fell in love w/ her after they shared an amazing kiss, a kiss that even Emi kept close to her heart)and I was able to function again.
The way i see it this is a tragic love story and a second chance at happiness. The writing was good, the characters lovable, you felt for them, you laughed, you cried and hoped w/them.
Overall a great series!

[Nikki · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've said it in so many reviews of this series, but rereading these books is like visiting with old friends. It's comfortable and familiar, and it never gets boring. Each time I read them I learn something new about these characters that I love, that I missed the last time.

In the end, everybody got their happy ending, though they had to wade through a fair amount of heartache to get there. And lucky for us, they took us along for the ride.

This series WILL make you cry (unless you're a heartless bugger like me, and even I cried in the second book so nah!). It will also make you laugh and sigh and giggle and grind your teeth in frustration and speak to the characters out loud so that your family looks at you as if you're mad... And it will make you smile.

These books are a true reflection of real life. Warts and all. And I love them.

[Tiffany Tyler · Rating 5 out of 5]

"When we leave in the morning, I want you to know three things."

"Yes?" I say as I kiss his chest, navigate my tongue to his neck. He picks me up in an embrace to help me reach him.

"That I think you are the most enchanting woman I have ever met...that I respect you, fully, no matter your request...and that I love you, Emi...that I want to be with you."

Swoonworthy, heartbreaking, and beautiful!!! Those are the first three words that come to mind when I reflect back on this series. It is so well-written that I could totally imagine the series, the characters, the situations, and all of the emotions in my mind. The words from Lori Otto were truly piece of art and talent!

DISCLAIMER: I received a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.