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Love Left Behind
It's not everyday that you get to move to New York City and reinvent yourself. I was tired of being boring, predictable Emma Mills. I was convinced that my life would be totally different in the Big Apple.
And I was right.
Jackson Reynard was irresistible and I had no plans on resisting him. Jackson was the epitome of tall, dark and handsome and I was more than happy to let him sweep me off my feet. I expected a summer fling but instead I got a heart-stopping romance. I realized that I had met the love of my life. I just didn't realize that sometimes love isn't enough.
It's hard enough getting over an ex. It's even harder when he becomes Hollywood's next biggest heartthrob and his face is plastered on every magazine cover. But the hardest part? The hardest part is when he thrusts himself back into my life and won't let go of the past.
I survived losing the man I loved the first time. I don't think I'll survive it again.
*Contains some mature content.
And I was right.
Jackson Reynard was irresistible and I had no plans on resisting him. Jackson was the epitome of tall, dark and handsome and I was more than happy to let him sweep me off my feet. I expected a summer fling but instead I got a heart-stopping romance. I realized that I had met the love of my life. I just didn't realize that sometimes love isn't enough.
It's hard enough getting over an ex. It's even harder when he becomes Hollywood's next biggest heartthrob and his face is plastered on every magazine cover. But the hardest part? The hardest part is when he thrusts himself back into my life and won't let go of the past.
I survived losing the man I loved the first time. I don't think I'll survive it again.
*Contains some mature content.
416 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 22, 2012
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 728 reviews
April 16, 2017
*2.5 Stars*
This was a fairly decent read, although I didn't enjoy it as much as I thought I would, which defintely places me in the minority. There were a lot of elements that didn't sit well with me, but there were some sweet ones, as well.
Pretty conflicted, huh?
Following a difficult Break up, Emma moves to New York where she meets Jackson—a sexy, aspiring actor who is also a trainer at a local gym. There is an immediate attraction and Emma allows herself to indulge in a harmless, heated fling. Except this is no 'fling'. They quickly become engrossed with one another and dive head first into a committed, loving relationship...
Unless I'm watching "Titanic", I'm not a fan of insta-love.
Only for you, Leo...
Insta-love, in most cases, just isn't believable and lacks the emotional build-up crucial in creating a genuine connection. Yes, this is a work of fiction, but since it is also a romance novel, the romantic connection should remain the most convincing aspect of the story. I did like Emma's character; I felt she was strong and had her priorities in order, for the most part. Jackson was very sweet, but I felt his behavior towards Emma bordered on obsessive more often than not. However, I appreciated his ability to love and put that love first.
The colossal 'misunderstanding' was a nice way to ignite tension within the story. However, this misunderstanding was prolonged to the point of frustration...and was NEVER. ENDING. The final resolve was sweet and I was happy to see the characters finally find their way. Overall—a decent read with tons of steam and a marginally interesting plot.
Book Stats:
▪ Genre/Category: Contemporary Romance
▪ Steam Caliber: Maximum steam
▪ Romance: Insta-love/lust
▪ Characters: Intense hero. Damaged heroine.
▪ Plot: An intense relationship suffers the downfalls of (frustratingly prolonged) miscommunication.
▪ Writing: Decent. Sexy. Descriptive.
▪ POV: 1st Person: Heroine
▪ Cliffhanger: None/Standalone
January 4, 2013
How can you have sex with a guy that looks sort of like Owen Wilson while closing your eyes in a blacked out room, facing due north after about six shots of tequila when you've been pumped full of Channing Tatum in broad daylight, bent over a desk...repeatedly.
That's sort of how I felt about Love Left behind. It was decent, even somewhat satisfying, but I've had better. I wanted to like it so bad. So. Bad. It just fell short. Emma and Jackson got together way too quick, but then it slowed down...way down. Too down. It would pick up and crash the party of great, but then it returned to the land of okay. Don't get me wrong, there was some pantie dropping, send your gramps into cardiac arrest moments, but it was not enough to carry the book.
Having characters talk during "moments of intimacy" (SEX) can be tricky. When used right, it can be incredibly hot, but if you're not careful it comes across too Harlequin. You're almost embarrassed for the characters. That wasn't the case entirely with Love Left Behind but I think Fabio may have hopped into bed with me a time or two.
Now the fun part...
Love Left Behind...NO!! Love Left in My Behind. JACKSON CAME IN THE BACK DOOR! He came in the back door! He didn't sneak in the back door! In fact, he came to the front door, but Emma turned off the porch light and locked it up. She told him to come to the back door...and she left it wide open!!!! I melted, I died.
The author had a great concept with this book...a great story, but the execution fell short. I saw enough potential to give future publications a shot because I love where her mind was going when she was writing this. It could have been great, S.H. Kolee could be great. I'll put this one behind (hahaha...behind) me and try again. READ ON!
That's sort of how I felt about Love Left behind. It was decent, even somewhat satisfying, but I've had better. I wanted to like it so bad. So. Bad. It just fell short. Emma and Jackson got together way too quick, but then it slowed down...way down. Too down. It would pick up and crash the party of great, but then it returned to the land of okay. Don't get me wrong, there was some pantie dropping, send your gramps into cardiac arrest moments, but it was not enough to carry the book.
Having characters talk during "moments of intimacy" (SEX) can be tricky. When used right, it can be incredibly hot, but if you're not careful it comes across too Harlequin. You're almost embarrassed for the characters. That wasn't the case entirely with Love Left Behind but I think Fabio may have hopped into bed with me a time or two.
Now the fun part...
Love Left Behind...NO!! Love Left in My Behind. JACKSON CAME IN THE BACK DOOR! He came in the back door! He didn't sneak in the back door! In fact, he came to the front door, but Emma turned off the porch light and locked it up. She told him to come to the back door...and she left it wide open!!!! I melted, I died.
The author had a great concept with this book...a great story, but the execution fell short. I saw enough potential to give future publications a shot because I love where her mind was going when she was writing this. It could have been great, S.H. Kolee could be great. I'll put this one behind (hahaha...behind) me and try again. READ ON!
March 5, 2018
DNF 88% — Skimmed to end
Wow! What a annoying book this turned out to be. Basically, the unoriginal plot is full of clichéd drama, never ending miscommunication, and generic storytelling. I finally gave up around 88% when, ONCE AGAIN, the nitwit of a heroine overreacted and refused to use simple conversation skills to clear up the plot’s big misunderstanding. *rolls eyes* I sklmmed to the end but didnt bother finishing the epilogue. I just didn’t care about this couple’s HEA.
Wow! What a annoying book this turned out to be. Basically, the unoriginal plot is full of clichéd drama, never ending miscommunication, and generic storytelling. I finally gave up around 88% when, ONCE AGAIN, the nitwit of a heroine overreacted and refused to use simple conversation skills to clear up the plot’s big misunderstanding. *rolls eyes* I sklmmed to the end but didnt bother finishing the epilogue. I just didn’t care about this couple’s HEA.
February 6, 2013
This is the story of Jackson Reynard a struggling actor and Emma Mills and advertising agent. It starts in NYC
This basically consists of the simple yet perfect recipe of:
- Emma moves to the NYC
- Emmas roommate introduces her to Jackson
- Insta Love
- Sexual Chemistry
- Possessiveness
- Alpha Males
- Annoying heroine
- Miscommunication
- A break up
- A move away
- A rise to fame
- Cheating
Then
- Jackson becoming a huge man-whore/ famous actor
- Emma moving back to NYC
- Running into each other again
- Deciding too “one more night” to get each other out of their systems
- Betrayal
- Miscommunication
- More running
- Crying
- Professing love
- HEA
So yeah the story sounds vaguely familiar and you want to hit the heroine in the ovaries soooo many times. Especially when she pushes Jackson away so badly
But it was a sweet read and Jackson was HOT and awesome!
This basically consists of the simple yet perfect recipe of:
- Emma moves to the NYC
- Emmas roommate introduces her to Jackson
- Insta Love
- Sexual Chemistry
- Possessiveness
- Alpha Males
- Annoying heroine
- Miscommunication
- A break up
- A move away
- A rise to fame
- Cheating
Then
- Jackson becoming a huge man-whore/ famous actor
- Emma moving back to NYC
- Running into each other again
- Deciding too “one more night” to get each other out of their systems
- Betrayal
- Miscommunication
- More running
- Crying
- Professing love
- HEA
So yeah the story sounds vaguely familiar and you want to hit the heroine in the ovaries soooo many times. Especially when she pushes Jackson away so badly
But it was a sweet read and Jackson was HOT and awesome!
nope
March 10, 2018I hate long-term separations based on misunderstandings and miscommunication!
July 6, 2020
I had a love/hate relationship with this book. One thing I loved was Jackson! Emma was great at times, but at other times infuriating! Claire was terrible... ugh. There was a lot of good in this book, I loved Jackson of course, and I loved him with Emma. Especially in the beginning half of the book. What a man! It didn't hurt that he was hot and there was definitely some passionate scenes between the two of them.
Some of the things that bothered me... Anyway, I really did enjoy it a lot even though it had my stomach in knots at times. The ending especially was great!
Some of the things that bothered me... Anyway, I really did enjoy it a lot even though it had my stomach in knots at times. The ending especially was great!
October 1, 2012
An excellent story. I couldn't put it down. A must read.
December 29, 2017
2.5"Heroine was a mean bitch and hero was crazy aggrassive" stars
First she detroyed Sean and then Jackson by breaking up left and right.
What was she? a bulldozer?
Her inner monologues were as annoying as she was.
And tbh Hero was coming as more of a sidekick than a main chracter..
Their whole relationship was kinda stupid from the way they both were behaving and ofcourse they were going to break up.
I don't even call that cheating what hero did! That poor kid and moreover who gives up on the love of their life just like that what are they? 15 yrs old teenagers? That they could'nt patch up because of their so called ego!
Huh!
P.s- i don't know if this was author's debut or something but writting did'nt impressed me at all..
What a waste of time....
First she detroyed Sean and then Jackson by breaking up left and right.
What was she? a bulldozer?
Her inner monologues were as annoying as she was.
And tbh Hero was coming as more of a sidekick than a main chracter..
Their whole relationship was kinda stupid from the way they both were behaving and ofcourse they were going to break up.
I don't even call that cheating what hero did! That poor kid and moreover who gives up on the love of their life just like that what are they? 15 yrs old teenagers? That they could'nt patch up because of their so called ego!
Huh!
P.s- i don't know if this was author's debut or something but writting did'nt impressed me at all..
What a waste of time....
January 5, 2013
I love an Alpha man, heck tell me to "shut up" every now and then. But for sure - you had better be bringing in big bucks, treating me like a queen, making me feel like women ACTUALLY have those uh hum...releases they have in the books, Love me like you are crazy, possess me like a lunatic, BUT - follow me, YOU.HAD.BETTER.BRING.IT.
Now, backing up a bit - all of that crazy and lunatic talk is just that: talk - I cannot do anything with a crazy man. Long gone are the days of the "Bodice Rippers" and this story soooo put me in that mind set. Were I um...a LOT younger, like the age I picked up my first Rosemary Rogers book - I would have given this book 10 stars if I could. However, grown a** woman here, and I have too much Honey Badger running through my blood for that silliness. I just mean, be passionate about me, and always be happy to give me the last bite of your favorite dish.
This guy though - had issues and needed some serious SSRI's....and after that "old apartment scene" I'm inclined to believe that a little Shock Therapy might not hurt either. That kind of crazy, I can live without.
***my review, is simply that - mine, my opinion. My taxes, death, student loans and opinion should not in anyway offend anyone as they are only personal to ME and absolutely should NOT be considered an attack on the wonderfully gifted author nor the readers whose opinion may differ.
Now, backing up a bit - all of that crazy and lunatic talk is just that: talk - I cannot do anything with a crazy man. Long gone are the days of the "Bodice Rippers" and this story soooo put me in that mind set. Were I um...a LOT younger, like the age I picked up my first Rosemary Rogers book - I would have given this book 10 stars if I could. However, grown a** woman here, and I have too much Honey Badger running through my blood for that silliness. I just mean, be passionate about me, and always be happy to give me the last bite of your favorite dish.
This guy though - had issues and needed some serious SSRI's....and after that "old apartment scene" I'm inclined to believe that a little Shock Therapy might not hurt either. That kind of crazy, I can live without.
***my review, is simply that - mine, my opinion. My taxes, death, student loans and opinion should not in anyway offend anyone as they are only personal to ME and absolutely should NOT be considered an attack on the wonderfully gifted author nor the readers whose opinion may differ.
October 13, 2012
This book was a wash rinse repeat of SO many romance novels except this one had an anal sex scene. I'm not into that, so it did nothing for me. I'm also not really into being told "I'm going to f*ck your brains out," when the characters were supposed to be in love. Jackson was downright disrespectful at some points. So maybe that was the book's downfall for me. Or maybe not... The character arch was pathetic and the plot had no turns what so ever. I was never left thinking "Oh snap! I didn't see that coming." The only thing I expected that wasn't there: an unexpected pregnancy. It was THAT predictable. Jackson practically rapes her in a few scenes and she just takes it like the drooling idiot she is. The antagonist in the book was a mere blip on the pages and she never got what was coming to her. She practically ruined Emma's life and she didn't even talk down to her at all.
Then there was the contrived "happily ever after" ending. I'm sorry, but messed up people like that DO NOT have happy endings without some serious therapy involved. I mean we're supposed to believe that Jackson's abusive and possessive behavior disappears because they're suddenly together? Come on!
If you want a porn book, this one is definitely for you! If you want an actual story line, you should look elsewhere.
Then there was the contrived "happily ever after" ending. I'm sorry, but messed up people like that DO NOT have happy endings without some serious therapy involved. I mean we're supposed to believe that Jackson's abusive and possessive behavior disappears because they're suddenly together? Come on!
If you want a porn book, this one is definitely for you! If you want an actual story line, you should look elsewhere.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 15, 2014
Jackson made this book for me. Emma, not so much. Talk about over the top jealous/possessive! This guy took it to such an extreme it got a bit scary at some points for me. I kept thinking "so this is what guys are like just before they pull out a gun and kill the woman they are stalking" - thank goodness the book never went in that direction!
Emma moves to New York City from her native Maryland after calling off her wedding to the only boy she has ever dated. She and Sean have been together for ten years from the time she was fifteen, and Emma suddenly realizes that although she loves Sean it is more a platonic love and not something to fuel a lifetime as a couple. On her first day in her new life she meets Jackson, who is immediately smitten by her. They quickly fall into a relationship that feels right both physically and emotionally. After a few months of intense togetherness Jackson receives a great job opportunity to act as a lead in his first movie. Unfortunately it requires an extended stay in California.
Emma mysteriously loses her job in New York and is all set to move with him when circumstances blow up and she feels forced to take care of things in Maryland. Jackson is prepared to let his movie part go in order to be with her but she convinces him not to, and due to being manipulated by someone they end up separating for five years. The second half of the book follows their chance encounter in New York. Emma has just moved back to the city and a great new job, Jackson is now a famous and successful movie star.
The big misunderstanding is not normally something I like to drive the story. It feels contrived to me, like a way to draw things out longer then necessary - however this book had a pivotal scene near the end where the misunderstanding is resolved in a very satisfying way.
It was hard for me to understand Emma. She jumped to conclusions and pushed Jackson away repeatedly, and repeatedly refused Jackson's advances to talk and sort things out. Although she never stops loving Jackson she keeps reacting blindly, and gets her happy ending despite herself. Jackson, however, is completely and obsessively in love with Emma and once he feels he has a shot at fixing what has gone wrong is relentless.
Emma moves to New York City from her native Maryland after calling off her wedding to the only boy she has ever dated. She and Sean have been together for ten years from the time she was fifteen, and Emma suddenly realizes that although she loves Sean it is more a platonic love and not something to fuel a lifetime as a couple. On her first day in her new life she meets Jackson, who is immediately smitten by her. They quickly fall into a relationship that feels right both physically and emotionally. After a few months of intense togetherness Jackson receives a great job opportunity to act as a lead in his first movie. Unfortunately it requires an extended stay in California.
Emma mysteriously loses her job in New York and is all set to move with him when circumstances blow up and she feels forced to take care of things in Maryland. Jackson is prepared to let his movie part go in order to be with her but she convinces him not to, and due to being manipulated by someone they end up separating for five years. The second half of the book follows their chance encounter in New York. Emma has just moved back to the city and a great new job, Jackson is now a famous and successful movie star.
The big misunderstanding is not normally something I like to drive the story. It feels contrived to me, like a way to draw things out longer then necessary - however this book had a pivotal scene near the end where the misunderstanding is resolved in a very satisfying way.
It was hard for me to understand Emma. She jumped to conclusions and pushed Jackson away repeatedly, and repeatedly refused Jackson's advances to talk and sort things out. Although she never stops loving Jackson she keeps reacting blindly, and gets her happy ending despite herself. Jackson, however, is completely and obsessively in love with Emma and once he feels he has a shot at fixing what has gone wrong is relentless.
March 2, 2013
I'm thinking I didn't read this right because a lot of you liked it when all I want to do is to just finish and be done. Don't get me wrong it's actually really ok in the aspect of romance and all. It's not the worst but ugh... not sure why but it felt like I'm reading a book that's trying really hard to resonate 50 Shades and failing.
I don't get the attraction part at all! AT ALL! I get love at first sight or lust at first sight to be more appropriate but hell, there should at least be something significant or endearing about you. Heck even Anastasia has that innocent-big-beautiful-eyes-lip-biting thing going for her. But Emma doesn't have any of that. I can't even remember a part where she describes how she looks. or if Jackson ever says something about her hair or eyes or lips or face. Now I'm pretty sure I read this wrong, but come on, a few minutes at a bar, chitchat and laughing?! and then Jackson invited her to the gym coz he's a trainer and then suddenly Jackson was like "Do you know how much I want you?" in a span of 3 days. or 5? whatever. where did it come from?!
This is a big deal for me because the moment of attraction weights heavily on how I'm going to judge the characters with their decisions as the book progresses. That's just how my mind operates really. So if I think the initial attraction is lame then everything else is like pointless after that. Like all their "I love you"s are meaningless and I can hear my brain say "No you don't" at moments like those. I am fully aware that I'm rambling, I'm just saying that I wish there was more depth on why Jackson was smitten and that he decides that Emma is the one. Because, you know, all of us girls want in on a secret on how you can snag a hot Hollywood worthy type of guy when seemingly there's absolutely nothing special about you. But well you won't get that in this book.
Also this is a case of me getting frustrated at the characters' life choices. ugh. communication is key. or well, I have to stop judging fictional characters' fictional life choices. haha!
I don't get the attraction part at all! AT ALL! I get love at first sight or lust at first sight to be more appropriate but hell, there should at least be something significant or endearing about you. Heck even Anastasia has that innocent-big-beautiful-eyes-lip-biting thing going for her. But Emma doesn't have any of that. I can't even remember a part where she describes how she looks. or if Jackson ever says something about her hair or eyes or lips or face. Now I'm pretty sure I read this wrong, but come on, a few minutes at a bar, chitchat and laughing?! and then Jackson invited her to the gym coz he's a trainer and then suddenly Jackson was like "Do you know how much I want you?" in a span of 3 days. or 5? whatever. where did it come from?!
This is a big deal for me because the moment of attraction weights heavily on how I'm going to judge the characters with their decisions as the book progresses. That's just how my mind operates really. So if I think the initial attraction is lame then everything else is like pointless after that. Like all their "I love you"s are meaningless and I can hear my brain say "No you don't" at moments like those. I am fully aware that I'm rambling, I'm just saying that I wish there was more depth on why Jackson was smitten and that he decides that Emma is the one. Because, you know, all of us girls want in on a secret on how you can snag a hot Hollywood worthy type of guy when seemingly there's absolutely nothing special about you. But well you won't get that in this book.
Also this is a case of me getting frustrated at the characters' life choices. ugh. communication is key. or well, I have to stop judging fictional characters' fictional life choices. haha!
October 13, 2012
I was up with Jackson and Emma from Love Left Behind until the wee hours of the morning, and now that I'm done, I miss them! This book kept me captivated all day yesterday--it was gut wrenching, it was sexy, it was hot with an extremely hot, possessive (and even caveman-ish at times--my favorite kind!) alpha and an intelligent yet vulnerable heroine, and it was entertaining--all the things I love in my favorite books! If you enjoy the hugely popular genre of angsty mature young adult (a.k.a. "New Adult") books, you'll most likely love this one! (the characters here are actually in their early to mid 20's for part of the book, and around 30 for another part of the book)
I'd love to read more about Jackson and Emma, although that would most likely mean more angst for them, so I'll understand if S.H. Kolee is happy with leaving their HEA as-is. However, if Jackson and Emma persuade Kolee that their story isn't finished, bring it on! I'll be waiting with bated breath to read more!
I'd love to read more about Jackson and Emma, although that would most likely mean more angst for them, so I'll understand if S.H. Kolee is happy with leaving their HEA as-is. However, if Jackson and Emma persuade Kolee that their story isn't finished, bring it on! I'll be waiting with bated breath to read more!
January 6, 2013
This book was making me crazy! But in a fun good way. Emma moved to NY to start over and be independent after a failed engagement. She meets Jackson and goes right into another relationship. But this one is different. Passionate. Happy. Fulfilled. But tragedy happens and guilt overrides her and she makes a decision that greatly affects her. Not only that, but conniving shady bitches don't help either. 5 years go by without knowing the truth. Then the truth comes to light and certain bitches are dealt with!! Haha. I had fun reading this book. Jackson was a lovable character. Emma wasn't anything special to me, but that's ok.
October 2, 2012
*sighs* I think I find a new favorite every month!
LOVED the book.. absolutely adored it :D So cute and oh so very hot ;)
Jackson and Emma are just WOAH :D Their chemistry was amazing
"Doesn't it bother you that everyone is looking at us? I feel like we're on display at a zoo. I keep expecting someone to throw bananas at us." lol
LOVED the book.. absolutely adored it :D So cute and oh so very hot ;)
Jackson and Emma are just WOAH :D Their chemistry was amazing
"Doesn't it bother you that everyone is looking at us? I feel like we're on display at a zoo. I keep expecting someone to throw bananas at us." lol
November 24, 2012
Cover - 3 out of 5, i hate when books share covers, hence the 3.
Title - 4 out of 5, it is very fitting.
Favorite Line - "This dress is over $5,000! I mean as much as I like this dress, how can they charge that much! Was it handmade by a group of monks in a monastery in the Netherlands?" - Odd place to place a monastery... :S
Favorite Character - Emma
Yes! I loved it! Yup you heard me.
My jackson
This book is seriously high drama & high tension. It is not a book i would recommend to someone looking for a chill out read, seriously. Normally i am not a fan of high drama but i really got caught up in the sex & the craziness. I loved it even when i was hating it! :)
The sex scenes between them were steamy & often, the pair had a lot of chemistry & i liked their feisty attitude with each other. There are quite a few surprises & twists to keep the book lively.
I read this book for Filthy Friday and i am delighted to tell you that this book is indeed a filthy friday fave :)
I would recommend this book & I would read more by this author.
Click here for my book review blog
Title - 4 out of 5, it is very fitting.
Favorite Line - "This dress is over $5,000! I mean as much as I like this dress, how can they charge that much! Was it handmade by a group of monks in a monastery in the Netherlands?" - Odd place to place a monastery... :S
Favorite Character - Emma
Yes! I loved it! Yup you heard me.
My jackson
This book is seriously high drama & high tension. It is not a book i would recommend to someone looking for a chill out read, seriously. Normally i am not a fan of high drama but i really got caught up in the sex & the craziness. I loved it even when i was hating it! :)
The sex scenes between them were steamy & often, the pair had a lot of chemistry & i liked their feisty attitude with each other. There are quite a few surprises & twists to keep the book lively.
I read this book for Filthy Friday and i am delighted to tell you that this book is indeed a filthy friday fave :)
I would recommend this book & I would read more by this author.
Click here for my book review blog
October 24, 2012
HOLY ...yeah i won't finish that.
SPOILER ALERT. (i wont reveal everything, but the synopsis pretty much reveals all so..)
The book was super intense. I'll start off by saying that some of the scenes.. phwoahh they got steamy, steamy, uber steamy. I loved their relationship, and the concept that he held a torch for her for so long, even after he got so famous. The whole thing with Colin.. well that was predictable, knew he would be the wedge to drive these two lovers apart. I will say however, I HATE CLAIR. she must jump in a big fat hole of nothingness. The only thing that REALLY bugged me was how possessive he was.. i mean don't get me wrong I LOVE possessive guys in books - makes them a whole lot hotter - but Jackson sometimes got to the point of insanity. I mean ripping her clothes off her.. should have been hot.. but all i kept thinking was "this is so not right.. or legal."
BUT loved the rest of this book, super simple read. Perfect for those who love some down and dirty steamy scenes ;) i give it a 3/5
Gotta say though when this line "life was shades of grey until he entered the room, making everything Technicolor" came up all i kept thinking about was the Lizzi McGuire movie hahahaha,
SPOILER ALERT. (i wont reveal everything, but the synopsis pretty much reveals all so..)
The book was super intense. I'll start off by saying that some of the scenes.. phwoahh they got steamy, steamy, uber steamy. I loved their relationship, and the concept that he held a torch for her for so long, even after he got so famous. The whole thing with Colin.. well that was predictable, knew he would be the wedge to drive these two lovers apart. I will say however, I HATE CLAIR. she must jump in a big fat hole of nothingness. The only thing that REALLY bugged me was how possessive he was.. i mean don't get me wrong I LOVE possessive guys in books - makes them a whole lot hotter - but Jackson sometimes got to the point of insanity. I mean ripping her clothes off her.. should have been hot.. but all i kept thinking was "this is so not right.. or legal."
BUT loved the rest of this book, super simple read. Perfect for those who love some down and dirty steamy scenes ;) i give it a 3/5
Gotta say though when this line "life was shades of grey until he entered the room, making everything Technicolor" came up all i kept thinking about was the Lizzi McGuire movie hahahaha,
October 6, 2012
I'll come back to this one...not holding my attention ...going to re read Bared to You...getting ready for Tuesday.
Ok..so this book did start out slow for me, but I have to say I am glad I picked it back up and finished. this book was a wonderful love story with some really good steam:) The only problem I had with this book was the communication factor. Emma could have saved herself and Jackson a lot of pain and heartache had she just questions things sooner and talked it over with Jackson. Even with that irritating factor this book was really good and I would definitely recommend it to anyone looking for a love story!!!
October 13, 2012
** 3 1/2 stars **
I had issues with the misunderstanding that went on way way too long so the second half got annoying.
I had issues with the misunderstanding that went on way way too long so the second half got annoying.
March 24, 2014
"We're practical and sensible but we're also dreamers. Don't forget that part of you.
There's nothing wrong with being sensible, but dreams are what make you fly.
And you're destined to touch the sky."
***
Is this that keeps me going... is this kind of book that makes me feel alive while reading it!
It's books like this... full of PASSION, DRAMA, HOT HOT SEX, MIND-BLOWING SCENES, BROKEN HEARTS,
BROKEN SOULS... but above all... INCONDIONAL LOVE!! LOVE THAT TAKES YOUR BREATH AWAY... LOVE THAT MAKES YOU FEEL EVERYTHING WHEN YOU WANT TO FEEL NOTHING AT ALL... LOVE THAT CRAVES YOUR HEART... LOVE THAT MAKES YOU FLY WITHOUT YOU HAVING WINGS... GOSH!!! IS THE LOVE WE SHOULD HAVE ON FAIRY TALES!!!
The one when you love so much you would everything just to keep the other happy, the one that would make you jump a cliff without the fear of die... the love that made you crazy for life, but that gave it a purpose...
Is this ... that I love reading... this book has everything I want...
For books like this one... I keep awakened all night... I keep DREAMING!
***
"I'll hold you to that"
***
I just want to see you
when you're all alone
I just want to catch you if I can
I just want to be there
When the morning light explodes
On your face it radiates
I cant escape
I love you till the end
I just want to tell you nothing
You dont want to hear
All I want is for you to say
Why dont you just take me
Where I've never been before
I know you want to hear me
Catch my breath
I love you till the end
I love you till the end
I love you till the end
I just want to be there
When were caught in the rain
I just want to see you laugh not cry
I just want to feel you
When the night puts on its cloak
I'm lost for words dont tell me
'Cause all I can say
I love you till the end
I love you till the end
I love you till the end
***
BR with my gorgeous!! xD
BBC!! :D
There's nothing wrong with being sensible, but dreams are what make you fly.
And you're destined to touch the sky."
***
Is this that keeps me going... is this kind of book that makes me feel alive while reading it!
It's books like this... full of PASSION, DRAMA, HOT HOT SEX, MIND-BLOWING SCENES, BROKEN HEARTS,
BROKEN SOULS... but above all... INCONDIONAL LOVE!! LOVE THAT TAKES YOUR BREATH AWAY... LOVE THAT MAKES YOU FEEL EVERYTHING WHEN YOU WANT TO FEEL NOTHING AT ALL... LOVE THAT CRAVES YOUR HEART... LOVE THAT MAKES YOU FLY WITHOUT YOU HAVING WINGS... GOSH!!! IS THE LOVE WE SHOULD HAVE ON FAIRY TALES!!!
The one when you love so much you would everything just to keep the other happy, the one that would make you jump a cliff without the fear of die... the love that made you crazy for life, but that gave it a purpose...
Is this ... that I love reading... this book has everything I want...
For books like this one... I keep awakened all night... I keep DREAMING!
***
"I'll hold you to that"
***
I just want to see you
when you're all alone
I just want to catch you if I can
I just want to be there
When the morning light explodes
On your face it radiates
I cant escape
I love you till the end
I just want to tell you nothing
You dont want to hear
All I want is for you to say
Why dont you just take me
Where I've never been before
I know you want to hear me
Catch my breath
I love you till the end
I love you till the end
I love you till the end
I just want to be there
When were caught in the rain
I just want to see you laugh not cry
I just want to feel you
When the night puts on its cloak
I'm lost for words dont tell me
'Cause all I can say
I love you till the end
I love you till the end
I love you till the end
***
BR with my gorgeous!! xD
BBC!! :D
January 1, 2020
2.5 stars
I didn’t love this one. Jackson and Emma meet in NYC and it is the insta love. 0 to 100 you’re it for me forever. Then there is the “misunderstanding “ that provided the breakup (no spoilers it is mentioned in the summary) bringing all the drama and angst to the book. I had a few issues... first, the misunderstanding dragged on and on and on. One conversation would have cleared it all up. I know this was to build tension, but it was too long for me. I also found the characters quite boring. I couldn’t feel their great love, couldn’t get emotionally invested. I didn’t even really care when they broke up, I was so bored. The book is quite long, so maybe I would have enjoyed it more if it was cut in half.
I didn’t love this one. Jackson and Emma meet in NYC and it is the insta love. 0 to 100 you’re it for me forever. Then there is the “misunderstanding “ that provided the breakup (no spoilers it is mentioned in the summary) bringing all the drama and angst to the book. I had a few issues... first, the misunderstanding dragged on and on and on. One conversation would have cleared it all up. I know this was to build tension, but it was too long for me. I also found the characters quite boring. I couldn’t feel their great love, couldn’t get emotionally invested. I didn’t even really care when they broke up, I was so bored. The book is quite long, so maybe I would have enjoyed it more if it was cut in half.
October 16, 2012
WOW.
This book made me giddy and pissed me off. I have never ever ever been more pissed off at a character in my LIFE like i was with Emma.
But this book was absolutely AMAZING!
I felt like i was right there in the fight with them!
Great great great book!
This book made me giddy and pissed me off. I have never ever ever been more pissed off at a character in my LIFE like i was with Emma.
But this book was absolutely AMAZING!
I felt like i was right there in the fight with them!
Great great great book!
February 19, 2013
3.5 Stars for the story
4.5 for Jackson and his dirty mouth ;)
4.5 for Jackson and his dirty mouth ;)
November 6, 2012
Not for me. I never found the hero a fun jealous/possessive type. I found him - creepy. And not sexy. This is just a weird book. I didn't like it.
March 5, 2013
To quote my friend Tanya, "What books are you guys reading?", because I don't know how so many people gave this book 4 to 5 stars. Now don't get me wrong; good books, like beauty, is always in the eye of the beholder... but I just couldn't get the appeal.
What I liked:
The main characters; Jackson and Emma. At first. I felt that I could relate to her sense of apprehension in living a life that was already mapped out for her by others instead of herself. Her sense of wonder in being in a new place, having the chance to leave and reinvent herself and trying new things. She even had some funny quotes in the begining
The few times I had stepped inside a gym, it was inevitable that everyone inside was already fit. Where did the regular people go, before they were able to wear spandex ensembles with pride? did they keep them in some dark hidden room of the gym until they where presentable enough to be unleased into the main facility?
and
I rationalized that while I wanted a fling, I didn't want a fling with a man who was flinging every other woman.
But as the story wore on, those little fun insights to her quick wit and humor went away. Which brings us to
What I didn't like:
The insta-love (Major eye rolling going on from this point on as I read the book. It was almost like I was having a seizure) Or more like the insta-lust, in this case. I don't know about you but if Jackson or any man, said to me that he's imagining making love to me the second time I met him and I would find him king of forward. Maybe that's just my thinking .
The characters didn't even seem to know each other very well, Emma even said
"He sounded so cold and callous. It reminded me that I didn't really know this man"
How can this be the love of your life but you don't even know him?
In short, I did not like this book at all. The characters were very shallow and all they seemed to care about was having sex. There was no real communication or feeling involved in their interactions. They were also very obsessed with each other which I found kind of disturbing. I trudged through it because after so many high reviews I expected it to get better or at least give me something or someone to cheer for, but it wasn't meant to be.
No offense was meant in the review of this book, if you enjoyed it and thought I was crazy for my opposite opinion you're more than intitled to feel that way. :)
What I liked:
The main characters; Jackson and Emma. At first. I felt that I could relate to her sense of apprehension in living a life that was already mapped out for her by others instead of herself. Her sense of wonder in being in a new place, having the chance to leave and reinvent herself and trying new things. She even had some funny quotes in the begining
The few times I had stepped inside a gym, it was inevitable that everyone inside was already fit. Where did the regular people go, before they were able to wear spandex ensembles with pride? did they keep them in some dark hidden room of the gym until they where presentable enough to be unleased into the main facility?
and
I rationalized that while I wanted a fling, I didn't want a fling with a man who was flinging every other woman.
But as the story wore on, those little fun insights to her quick wit and humor went away. Which brings us to
What I didn't like:
The insta-love (Major eye rolling going on from this point on as I read the book. It was almost like I was having a seizure) Or more like the insta-lust, in this case. I don't know about you but if Jackson or any man, said to me that he's imagining making love to me the second time I met him and I would find him king of forward. Maybe that's just my thinking .
The characters didn't even seem to know each other very well, Emma even said
"He sounded so cold and callous. It reminded me that I didn't really know this man"
How can this be the love of your life but you don't even know him?
In short, I did not like this book at all. The characters were very shallow and all they seemed to care about was having sex. There was no real communication or feeling involved in their interactions. They were also very obsessed with each other which I found kind of disturbing. I trudged through it because after so many high reviews I expected it to get better or at least give me something or someone to cheer for, but it wasn't meant to be.
No offense was meant in the review of this book, if you enjoyed it and thought I was crazy for my opposite opinion you're more than intitled to feel that way. :)
October 26, 2012
Wow..Just wow! This book was awesome! It had me hooked from beginning to end, to the point where I couldn't put it down..I will admit though where the first half of the book was light and fluffy some elements within the second half with his treatment towards Emma were kind of off putting, but I could understand his underlying hurt and anger, other than that it was a great read and gets my 5/5 stars!! Definitely a book I will be recommending..
February 4, 2013
This is super fun and enjoyable to read!
Jackson and Emma are two people that meet and instantly hit it off and are both surprised by how fast their feelings for each other grow and into a passionate relationship.
I was at times frustrated with both main characters at certain points in the book but the overall storyline is great as it will pull you in from the very beginning.
I definitely recommend it if you enjoy a good romance with lots of steamy, sexy love scenes!
Jackson and Emma are two people that meet and instantly hit it off and are both surprised by how fast their feelings for each other grow and into a passionate relationship.
I was at times frustrated with both main characters at certain points in the book but the overall storyline is great as it will pull you in from the very beginning.
I definitely recommend it if you enjoy a good romance with lots of steamy, sexy love scenes!
October 22, 2012
This is my new favorite book. I live the story line it made me cry, laugh, get frustrated but it makes me think of my love. I give it 6 stars if it would let me!!!! Team Emma and Jackson!!!
October 18, 2012
BOOK REVIEW – Love Left Behind – S.H. Kolee
A poignant read, that will push those buttons and take you for a little spin on the emotional rollercoaster. Watch out for the bumps and buckle up tight!
Emma Mills was your ordinary, girl next door, all humble American pie, twenty four year old. She has a doting Fiancé,’ her Mother is a charity support worker, and she goes to church. But one day, Emma had an epiphany. The man she was due to marry wasn’t the love of her life, and the person her Mother wanted her to be, wasn’t the woman she wanted to see in the mirror every morning – in fact Emma Mills was, quite frankly... miserable!
Plucking up enough courage to break her wedding off, a month before walking down the aisle, and moving from DC to New York was a daunting prospect, but one that Emma had to do, otherwise her envisions of a half fulfilled life as a lonely housewife would ring true, and Emma made a promise to herself that she couldn’t let that happen.
Moving into an Apartment with a friend of the family that she had never met came in the form of Claire, an attractive young actress who is currently starring in a play on the East Side of town. When Claire introduces Emma to her close-knit circle of friends, she can’t help but notice Jackson, Claire’s irresistible co-star.
Promising that her move was solely to find herself again, and work her way up the career ladder, Claire decides that if she was to have a fling, then Jackson was her man. However, Jackson and Emma soon both realise, and quickly, that stoking the fires of unrequited passion can come with consequences… it infects the heart!
As a passion fuelled romance blossoms, Emma and Jackson have to learn to juggle work commitments, friendships and the looming prospect of separation – afterall, Jackson has just received a call, and one that could take him all the way to Hollywood!
Just as things start to look rosy, the tinted glasses take a nosedive, when Sean, her ex fiancé,’ makes a phone call. One that could change everything...
*
Oh Emma, Emma, Emma, there were times when I could have strangled you. Times when I wanted to hug you, and times when I was just, blah… What can I say? I’m sorry, but there were times when I just didn’t like her. I wanted to, trust me I really wanted to LOVE this book because some parts of it were incredible. In fact it started on a real high for me, and I was singing ‘Yes, Finally! A book that has all the right elements, with a little heart-wrenching angst thrown in for good measure,’ and we all know I love my angst! But this just didn’t do it for me because of one detail - one small detail that lingered and festered, and made this book too long.
Emma’s ideals and inner reasoning’s gave me whiplash and she continued to annoy me. You could blame her naivety, and her notion for being quite a self-righteous character on occasions as she would make decisions based on the belief that she was doing it for the ‘greater good’ to help those she loved, when in-fact she was hurting everyone that loved her, including herself.
I think at one point I was shouting at my Kindle, “Spit it out woman, for God’s sake just bloody ask him!”
On the other hand, Jackson was a great character. He was hotter than hell and the love he felt for Emma was so true and heartfelt and warm enough for the reader to bask in, it’s just a shame that it took Emma a very long time to truly believe in it – hence the strangling!
Its hard to rate this book, simply because SH Kolee did her job! She got a rise out of me, and as an avid reader I cannot emphasise enough how important that is. So on that basis alone it makes this a well-written story and worth the time investment. For me personally, however, Emma just pushed my tolerance level a little too far.
Regardless, there were certain elements of this book; especially the steam factor, that I really enjoyed and I would read more of S.H Kolee’s work in the future.
3.5 Stars.
A poignant read, that will push those buttons and take you for a little spin on the emotional rollercoaster. Watch out for the bumps and buckle up tight!
Emma Mills was your ordinary, girl next door, all humble American pie, twenty four year old. She has a doting Fiancé,’ her Mother is a charity support worker, and she goes to church. But one day, Emma had an epiphany. The man she was due to marry wasn’t the love of her life, and the person her Mother wanted her to be, wasn’t the woman she wanted to see in the mirror every morning – in fact Emma Mills was, quite frankly... miserable!
Plucking up enough courage to break her wedding off, a month before walking down the aisle, and moving from DC to New York was a daunting prospect, but one that Emma had to do, otherwise her envisions of a half fulfilled life as a lonely housewife would ring true, and Emma made a promise to herself that she couldn’t let that happen.
Moving into an Apartment with a friend of the family that she had never met came in the form of Claire, an attractive young actress who is currently starring in a play on the East Side of town. When Claire introduces Emma to her close-knit circle of friends, she can’t help but notice Jackson, Claire’s irresistible co-star.
Promising that her move was solely to find herself again, and work her way up the career ladder, Claire decides that if she was to have a fling, then Jackson was her man. However, Jackson and Emma soon both realise, and quickly, that stoking the fires of unrequited passion can come with consequences… it infects the heart!
As a passion fuelled romance blossoms, Emma and Jackson have to learn to juggle work commitments, friendships and the looming prospect of separation – afterall, Jackson has just received a call, and one that could take him all the way to Hollywood!
Just as things start to look rosy, the tinted glasses take a nosedive, when Sean, her ex fiancé,’ makes a phone call. One that could change everything...
*
Oh Emma, Emma, Emma, there were times when I could have strangled you. Times when I wanted to hug you, and times when I was just, blah… What can I say? I’m sorry, but there were times when I just didn’t like her. I wanted to, trust me I really wanted to LOVE this book because some parts of it were incredible. In fact it started on a real high for me, and I was singing ‘Yes, Finally! A book that has all the right elements, with a little heart-wrenching angst thrown in for good measure,’ and we all know I love my angst! But this just didn’t do it for me because of one detail - one small detail that lingered and festered, and made this book too long.
Emma’s ideals and inner reasoning’s gave me whiplash and she continued to annoy me. You could blame her naivety, and her notion for being quite a self-righteous character on occasions as she would make decisions based on the belief that she was doing it for the ‘greater good’ to help those she loved, when in-fact she was hurting everyone that loved her, including herself.
I think at one point I was shouting at my Kindle, “Spit it out woman, for God’s sake just bloody ask him!”
On the other hand, Jackson was a great character. He was hotter than hell and the love he felt for Emma was so true and heartfelt and warm enough for the reader to bask in, it’s just a shame that it took Emma a very long time to truly believe in it – hence the strangling!
Its hard to rate this book, simply because SH Kolee did her job! She got a rise out of me, and as an avid reader I cannot emphasise enough how important that is. So on that basis alone it makes this a well-written story and worth the time investment. For me personally, however, Emma just pushed my tolerance level a little too far.
Regardless, there were certain elements of this book; especially the steam factor, that I really enjoyed and I would read more of S.H Kolee’s work in the future.
3.5 Stars.
December 30, 2012
I took a bite of my bread pudding and the apple tart was instantly forgotten. "Oh my God," I said. "You have to try this. It's incredible." I reached over with a spoonful of bread pudding for Jackson to taste, mimicking his earlier gesture. Jackson guided my hand with his, taking the bite of bread pudding from the spoon. Instead of releasing my hand as he ate the bite of bread pudding, he kept hold of it, gazing at me. He then smiled and turned my hand over that was still clutching the spoon, softly kissing the center of my palm with an open mouth and tasting me with his tongue. He then released my hand and it fell limply onto the table. I felt boneless as I looked at him, his gesture making my lower body tighten. "What was that for?" I asked, surprised at how breathless my voice sounded. Jackson smiled slowly. "I wanted a taste of the sweetest dessert. You." It was a good thing I was sitting; otherwise, I would have melted into a pool of desire. "Boy, you sure know how to flatter a girl," I joked, but my voice sounded unsteady. "You must have to beat them off with a stick." Jackson wasn't smiling at he gazed at me. "There's only one girl I'm interested in. I have a feeling that's not going to change for a long time. If ever." That's when I realized that Jackson would be my undoing.
This is one of those hidden gems that comes out of nowhere and surprises you with how good it is. First off, some adjectives I would use to describe Love Left Behind: INTENSE, scorching, obsessive, angsty, erotic, and (slightly) disturbing. I had some conflicting emotions with this one. I almost felt guilty for enjoying it as much as I did seeing as Jackson is completely and overwhelmingly obsessed with Emma from the very beginning and after their separation it only magnifies. It magnifies to the point where you ask yourself: If this was a real person, wouldn't I be on the phone calling the cops to get a restraining order?? It's a bit creepy at times and I wonder if the author hasn't quite mastered the line between alpha, possessive, macho hero and scary stalker . It's a very fine line and can be confused by the best of us….lol. Despite my mixed feelings about Jackson, in the end I still loved the book because it was so dang good I couldn't put this book down, didn't skip one page out of disinterest, I had the characters and story on my mind for days after finishing, and felt a variety of different emotions. In my opinion, that is the sign of a great book. It was slightly formulaic in some ways (I won't say how because that would be a spoiler) but I was definitely able to overlook that. Jackson and Emma together were so good together and I just rooted for them to get it right.
This book is probably not for everyone, but for me, I think it's definitely worth your time. I really wasn't expecting it to be as good as it was, but after finishing, I went right to her book list and devoured her other books. Her Shadow series is new adult paranormal-I highly recommend them for anyone into either genres.
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