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Wasted On You
I'm not good for her, but I can't resist her anymore.
Elowyn, the new girl next door, is sweet, kind and radiates joy. My past makes it impossible to feel like that, but just being near her eases something in me that I can't explain. When I see a strange man outside of her apartment and scaring her, I have to get involved.
Turns out, her ex is there to make trouble, and if that's what he wants, I'm more than happy to give it to him. As I wrap my arm around her, I feel a connection that's undeniable.
As Elowyn leans on me, I realize that the shadows of my past can't hold me back any longer. It doesn't matter what I did, or how bad it was. She ignites a fire within me that I never knew existed.
We're drawn together, like magnets, unable to resist the pull.
But with her ex still lurking around making threats, she'll never truly feel safe. I vow to protect her, to be there whenever she needs me. For Elowyn, I'll face my darkest fears to see her light shine again.
Elowyn, the new girl next door, is sweet, kind and radiates joy. My past makes it impossible to feel like that, but just being near her eases something in me that I can't explain. When I see a strange man outside of her apartment and scaring her, I have to get involved.
Turns out, her ex is there to make trouble, and if that's what he wants, I'm more than happy to give it to him. As I wrap my arm around her, I feel a connection that's undeniable.
As Elowyn leans on me, I realize that the shadows of my past can't hold me back any longer. It doesn't matter what I did, or how bad it was. She ignites a fire within me that I never knew existed.
We're drawn together, like magnets, unable to resist the pull.
But with her ex still lurking around making threats, she'll never truly feel safe. I vow to protect her, to be there whenever she needs me. For Elowyn, I'll face my darkest fears to see her light shine again.
244 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 30, 2023
About the author
Colleen Charles
167 books1,190 followersAfter 26 years in Corporate leadership at a Fortune 500, I discovered people within the organization lacked integrity. I’d always known deep in my soul that I was trying to fit a square peg in to a round hole since I’m the typical creative type. I miss my staff but I don’t miss the corporate world. It’s been said that the Universe will let you know if something isn’t right for you. The first time, it will hit you with a pebble. Then a brick. Then a boulder. Let’s just say that I got flattened. When my fifteen pound toy dog, Nigel, was threatened, I knew it was time to say goodbye.
It’s true.
Here’s what I found within the first thirty days of being free. Writing stories from my heart that readers love means more to me than working myself in to an early grave for people who only care about their bottom line.
My heart has never been more full and my soul has never been more satisfied.
I’ve never worked so hard in my life but it doesn’t even feel like work. It’s worth it. All of it. Because it’s about the joy that’s found within the journey. The highs and the lows because I get to write stories for all of you.
Thank you from the bottom of my heart for reading, enjoying and recommending the stories that I write. When you share my work with others, nothing is more rewarding. Your word of mouth is my very best friend … that, and your reviews. There is nothing more important to me than all of you.
I love to hear from my readers and answer all communications personally. You can find me at:
It’s true.
Here’s what I found within the first thirty days of being free. Writing stories from my heart that readers love means more to me than working myself in to an early grave for people who only care about their bottom line.
My heart has never been more full and my soul has never been more satisfied.
I’ve never worked so hard in my life but it doesn’t even feel like work. It’s worth it. All of it. Because it’s about the joy that’s found within the journey. The highs and the lows because I get to write stories for all of you.
Thank you from the bottom of my heart for reading, enjoying and recommending the stories that I write. When you share my work with others, nothing is more rewarding. Your word of mouth is my very best friend … that, and your reviews. There is nothing more important to me than all of you.
I love to hear from my readers and answer all communications personally. You can find me at:
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
July 11, 2023
I thoroughly enjoyed this story from start to finish! Both Weston and Elowyn are dynamic and very likeable characters. I couldn't get enough of them together but also learning about their own individual journeys. The struggles of both characters are emotional to learn about and I loved that they are able to learn and grow individually and with one another as the story progresses. The writing style and flow of this novel was incredible and kept me invested and intrigued the entire way through!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 27, 2023
Weston and Elowyn's romance is the kind that is going to squeeze every single drop of emotion it can from your heart. These two truly had me all up in my feels as their story unfolds. I found so much that I could personally relate to in here, and for me that meant I felt a deep connection with both of these characters. Man, my heart just ached for them. The smart blend of emotion and drama that flows oh so smoothly across the pages read easily and kept my attention well. Sweet, poignant and spicy, this book was a wonderful read that left my heart melted and my mind eagerly looking forward to reading more of this series. I am independently posting an impartial review.
July 24, 2023
I am in love with Weston and Elowyn. These two characters were so broken and desperately in need of a huge hug and a forever love. With damaging backgrounds and toxic families, it was a wonder they were as amazing as they were. Weston was the darkness compared to Elowyn’s light, but the beautiful part about him was that he was never truly dark. He had light in him but couldn’t see it for himself. I loved their story with all of my heart and was thrilled with the way that things developed and lead up to a truly beautiful ending.
Weston is a man with a dark past. He accidentally killed someone is defense of another. He never served jail time, but that doesn’t mean he didn’t suffer for what happened. He has a need to protect those he loves and even those around him who can’t protect themselves. That’s how he ends up with an unlikely friendship with Elowyn. He’s drawn to her from the first moment but tries to keep his darkness away from her. When her ex boyfriend shows up causing problems, he can’t help but step in to help her.
There were so many things that I loved about this book. I enjoyed the development of their friendship. From neighbors and coworkers, to carpools and roommates, to lovers who aren’t sure what the future holds. As always with a Colleen Charles romance, the banter is always epic and will give you butterflies. I loved the scenes with cooking and aprons (you’ll see) as well as the intense passion that you can feel through their story. It won’t be an easy road to healing and happily ever after, but it’s a road worth taking. A road that helps them to both grow and evolve into the people they were meant to be.
Weston is a man with a dark past. He accidentally killed someone is defense of another. He never served jail time, but that doesn’t mean he didn’t suffer for what happened. He has a need to protect those he loves and even those around him who can’t protect themselves. That’s how he ends up with an unlikely friendship with Elowyn. He’s drawn to her from the first moment but tries to keep his darkness away from her. When her ex boyfriend shows up causing problems, he can’t help but step in to help her.
There were so many things that I loved about this book. I enjoyed the development of their friendship. From neighbors and coworkers, to carpools and roommates, to lovers who aren’t sure what the future holds. As always with a Colleen Charles romance, the banter is always epic and will give you butterflies. I loved the scenes with cooking and aprons (you’ll see) as well as the intense passion that you can feel through their story. It won’t be an easy road to healing and happily ever after, but it’s a road worth taking. A road that helps them to both grow and evolve into the people they were meant to be.
July 16, 2023
This was a cute story about Elowyn, a young woman who recently broke up with her boyfriend and moved out of parent's house after being there for 6 months and her hot neighbor Weston. Elowyn finds out that Weston also works with at the same bar that she works at. After a run-in with her ex boyfriend, Elowyn starts liking Weston and he kinda likes her too.
Weston had a hard childhood and lives with the guilt of accidently killing his step dad and the burden on taking care of his mother, who depends on him. She guilt trips him alot even though he was trying to save her when he killed him. Meanwhile Elowyn has to deal with the continued harassment of her ex. After knowing Weston for a short period of time (really short) they become girlfriend/boyfriend and he (temporary) moves in with her. He called himself a rough lover but there was really no rough sex going on. Weston encourages Elowyn to turn her gift giving hobby into a business and he creates a webpage for her that kicks off and she motivates him to stand up to her mom, which he does.
In the end, after a few ups and downs they get married and live happily ever after, in a nut shell! This book was pretty good. I really liked how the ex called Elowyn at the end to apologized for treating her so bad! Must exes are a#sholes and wouldn't have done that!!!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Weston had a hard childhood and lives with the guilt of accidently killing his step dad and the burden on taking care of his mother, who depends on him. She guilt trips him alot even though he was trying to save her when he killed him. Meanwhile Elowyn has to deal with the continued harassment of her ex. After knowing Weston for a short period of time (really short) they become girlfriend/boyfriend and he (temporary) moves in with her. He called himself a rough lover but there was really no rough sex going on. Weston encourages Elowyn to turn her gift giving hobby into a business and he creates a webpage for her that kicks off and she motivates him to stand up to her mom, which he does.
In the end, after a few ups and downs they get married and live happily ever after, in a nut shell! This book was pretty good. I really liked how the ex called Elowyn at the end to apologized for treating her so bad! Must exes are a#sholes and wouldn't have done that!!!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 13, 2023
Weston does not ever have it easy, from dealing with his abusive stepfather to how the authorities treated him in the aftermath of him protecting his mother to his relationship with his mother ever since. Elowyn is recovering from breaking up with a cheating abuser and the loss of her “best friend” that he cheated with. I like the friendship that develops between Weston and Elowyn. They both have to grow a lot and do much of it together. She expects a lot from him from very early and he has a hard time living up to that. He absolutely and massively fails her at one point, but it makes her stronger in the long run. I like the changes Jesse show at the end too. I also like how his mother finally makes changes.
I received a free copy of this book.
I received a free copy of this book.
August 20, 2023
Weston has always tried to do what was right and keep those he loves safe however that decision continues to haunt him. Elowyn is his neighbor and co-worker but what begins as wanting to protect her turns into so much more.
Elowyn wants nothing to do with the man that betrayed her however he doesn’t seem to be getting the message. Weston is there when she needs someone the most and as they spend time together she realizes that they are destined to be so much more than friends.
Both Weston and Elowyn are dealing with the emotional turmoil of their past which is impacting the present. Although their journey wasn’t without its missteps they are supportive and understanding as they find the happiness they both deserve.
Elowyn wants nothing to do with the man that betrayed her however he doesn’t seem to be getting the message. Weston is there when she needs someone the most and as they spend time together she realizes that they are destined to be so much more than friends.
Both Weston and Elowyn are dealing with the emotional turmoil of their past which is impacting the present. Although their journey wasn’t without its missteps they are supportive and understanding as they find the happiness they both deserve.
August 22, 2023
This is the 1st book in the Bittersweet Echoes series featuring the emotional roller-coaster that is Weston and Elowyn's story. Their story tugs on your heartstrings as you watch Weston and Elowyn struggle to put the past behind them so that they can have the amazing future they deserve. They both try to teach each other how to stand up for themselves which as people pleasers isn't easy. This is beautifully written and I don't want to say anymore and ruin it for anyone else with spoilers. You really need to read this emotional roller-coaster of a romance to see what happens. I would recommend reading this book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 22, 2023
This was a pretty intense love story. Riveting. Weston and Elowyn are fighting pasts and are loyal to family in a way that keeps them from being the people they want to be. While both battles are different, they immediately bond over their desire to break away from unhealthy commitments and somehow find a healthier future together. Like I said, this was intense. It will pull at your heart and keep you rooting for this couple. It’s wonderfully steamy and their chemistry is off the charts. I was totally drawn in from the first page. A lovely ending. I’m going to have a bit of a book hangover with this one.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 7, 2023
I loved this book! Weston commits a “crime” in defense of his mother and can’t get over it because his mom, who’s become a bitter shell of a woman, constantly reminds him and also because he can’t forgive himself. Elowyn has never been allowed to think for herself because her family and her abusive ex boyfriend have always told her what her path in life should be. When these two become neighbors and then friends and then lovers, they help each other discover their true worth and finally learn to stand up for themselves and make their own way in life.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 17, 2023
Wasted on you was a nice surprise it's a very emotional experience if there was ever two people who needed change and to discover happiness its Weston and Elowyn living with the burden of the past and expectation of other's they most both find their voice with a journey full of bumps and a few misunderstanding you will be amazed with the growth you see in Weston and Elowyn they have off the charters chemistry some good some bad family and friends with each new hurtle they face and overcome together a brighter future is within their reach. I look forward to the next book in this serie
I received a advance readers copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a advance readers copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 29, 2023
Wasted On You is book #1 in the Bittersweet Echoes Trilogy. Thisbseries is about 3 sisters.
This first story is the baby sister, Elowyn. She feels like a failure to her family, herself, her abusive ex...and is trying to get herself sorted out. Her sexy hot neighbor, Weston, has his own demons to put to rest. These two find solace in each other and become better together, but their families seem to threaten their HEA. I really enjoyed this one and can't wait for her sisters to have their HEA as well.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This first story is the baby sister, Elowyn. She feels like a failure to her family, herself, her abusive ex...and is trying to get herself sorted out. Her sexy hot neighbor, Weston, has his own demons to put to rest. These two find solace in each other and become better together, but their families seem to threaten their HEA. I really enjoyed this one and can't wait for her sisters to have their HEA as well.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 30, 2023
This was a very sweet story about two people with no backbones helping each other to stand up for themselves. It isn't a gripping page-turner but it leaves you satisfied and has a happy ending where even the villains turn over a new page.
You schoolmarms will be happy to know that there are very few typos in this book, the worst offenders I found were some run-on sentences. The prose flows nicely.
Added bonus, if you like dirty talk the MMC delivers.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
You schoolmarms will be happy to know that there are very few typos in this book, the worst offenders I found were some run-on sentences. The prose flows nicely.
Added bonus, if you like dirty talk the MMC delivers.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 7, 2023
This book is all about moving forward in life, not letting your past and your fear keep you from looking for your own happiness, and most importantly figuring out that you deserve love and to be happy. Colleen Charles walks you through this struggle for Weston and Elowyn in what is aptly a bittersweet romance where disappointing some, setting boundaries, finally taking a stand, and letting the past go set them free. A well written and smooth flowing story with a super cute ending.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 11, 2023
Elowyn and Weston are neighbors and both have abusive histories. When he stands up for her against her harassing ex, they find a common bond in their backstories. Support and acknowledgement as they open up, are the base of their new direction as they take charge of their own lives. Very heartwarming relationship, with acceptance of who they really are and what they want. Totally enjoyed this story and the great ending.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 20, 2023
This is a good start to a series, it introduces characters well, showing highs and lows and showing how low mood, low self esteem and trauma can impact on and dictate life. I really enjoyed seeing these two find a way to be friends, to face their pasts, to heal, to learn and grow from that, as well as handling what life threw their way. Their story was one full of emotions and had me turning the pages hoping that they would get their HEA in the end.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 21, 2023
Wasted On You (Book 1 of Bittersweet Echoes Trilogy) by Colleen Charles. I really like this heartfelt and emotionally charged story, the connection between characters, the banter between all was genuine and made you feel like you were part of the story as it unfolded. Nice paced contemporary drama with just enough chemistry and conflict to keep you interested until the end. Weston and Elowyn make a great couple. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 22, 2023
This is book one in this trilogy series. It is so good! The world building was awesome and the characters are likable and relatable. The first book is about Elowyn and Weston. Elowyn ends up moving near Weston, like basically across his home. They work at the same place and they get close after he scared off Elowyns crappy ex. There are some major highs and some lows on the road to their HEA. Highly recommend. Can’t wait for more!!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 6, 2023
A really well-written book. Great storylines, excellent character development, tough life-issues exposed in a timely fashion. Doesn't leave much, if anything to complain about, and I have none.
I read a great deal, and follow a large number of authors. I'm not sure I've read and of Ms. Charles works before, but rest assured, I have already downloaded Book 2 of this 3 book series, and look forward to reading as much of her work as I can discover.
A very solid and enjoyable read. Kudos to Ms. Charles.
I read a great deal, and follow a large number of authors. I'm not sure I've read and of Ms. Charles works before, but rest assured, I have already downloaded Book 2 of this 3 book series, and look forward to reading as much of her work as I can discover.
A very solid and enjoyable read. Kudos to Ms. Charles.
November 11, 2023
This is a new author to me and I was immediately engrossed within the first chapter and lost in Weston and Elowyn's world until I finished. They've both been through a lot in their lives and you see the impact it's had on them. Can they heal each other and have the happiness they deserve and crave?... Be aware that you will be taken on an emotional rollercoaster throughout their story. I can't wait to see what happens in the series!!!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 6, 2024
Perfect underdog story
Weston is the boy who came from "the 'wrong' side of the tracks" and is trying to make up for his past; Elowyn is smothered by her well-intentioned sisters and just out of an abusive relationship. These two both must overcome the past, and turn out to be absolutely perfect for each other. Kinda like two butterflies with broken wings that come back better and stronger than ever! Colleen gives her readers the most wonderful, hopeful, happy ending, and is definitely an uplifting read that doesn't disappoint!
Weston is the boy who came from "the 'wrong' side of the tracks" and is trying to make up for his past; Elowyn is smothered by her well-intentioned sisters and just out of an abusive relationship. These two both must overcome the past, and turn out to be absolutely perfect for each other. Kinda like two butterflies with broken wings that come back better and stronger than ever! Colleen gives her readers the most wonderful, hopeful, happy ending, and is definitely an uplifting read that doesn't disappoint!
June 29, 2023
Wasted On You was an emotional roller coaster ride with many ups and downs. Weston and Elowyn’s story was so relatable. Weston had been through so much when he was younger and Elowyn is dealing with a crazy ex. This story has the perfect combination of emotions, drama and romance. It had me from the first page and held my attention all the way through it! I couldn’t put it down! I really enjoyed it and recommend it to everyone!
July 1, 2023
Wasted On You
What a wonderful story. These two come from pasts that are needing to be replaced by new memories. He feels he isn’t deserving, and she wants nothing more than to help this new man in her life. Can two people who are so hurt from their own lives be ready to move on? Beautiful story about forgiveness, loving oneself, standing up for yourself, and loving who you are. Beautifully written, loved this.❤️
What a wonderful story. These two come from pasts that are needing to be replaced by new memories. He feels he isn’t deserving, and she wants nothing more than to help this new man in her life. Can two people who are so hurt from their own lives be ready to move on? Beautiful story about forgiveness, loving oneself, standing up for yourself, and loving who you are. Beautifully written, loved this.❤️
July 7, 2023
I was hooked on Weston and Elowyn from the very beginning. Colleen has written a wonderful story and I could not put it down. I felt the characters emotions like I was there with them. I loved getting lost in this story. It has heartache,heat and a HEA. I highly recommend this book to everyone and I look forward to reading more from this new to me author.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 23, 2023
Tragic past and history repeating..
Weston was a good kid who life realty a crappy hand in the form of a violent stepfather. Ten years have past since then, but he stills lives with the shadow of it. (He really needed a better lawyer).
Elowyn moves in next door, with her she brings baggage in an ex just like Weston’s stepfather. Weston wants to stay away, but when he sees history repeating itself, he can’t.
Really felt for Weston.
Weston was a good kid who life realty a crappy hand in the form of a violent stepfather. Ten years have past since then, but he stills lives with the shadow of it. (He really needed a better lawyer).
Elowyn moves in next door, with her she brings baggage in an ex just like Weston’s stepfather. Weston wants to stay away, but when he sees history repeating itself, he can’t.
Really felt for Weston.
July 5, 2023
oh the angst
Oh man, the angst in this book got me. Weston tries to be this hard guy but he is just gooey in the center and Elowyn is sweet but when she lets her family walk all over her I was soooo frustrated. But their story drags you in and they end up with a good HEA. Enjoyed it.
Oh man, the angst in this book got me. Weston tries to be this hard guy but he is just gooey in the center and Elowyn is sweet but when she lets her family walk all over her I was soooo frustrated. But their story drags you in and they end up with a good HEA. Enjoyed it.
July 10, 2023
I've read a lot of books written by Colleen Charles; she is one of my favorite authors. I can’t wait to read more of her books.
This is the first book in the Bittersweet Echoes Trilogy; it can be read as a stand-alone book. The story is about Elowyn & Weston.
I received a free copy of this book via booksprout and I’m voluntarily leaving a review.
This is the first book in the Bittersweet Echoes Trilogy; it can be read as a stand-alone book. The story is about Elowyn & Weston.
I received a free copy of this book via booksprout and I’m voluntarily leaving a review.
July 11, 2023
An emotional and engaging story about two people with traumatic backgrounds finding strength in each other’s love. Gripping plot with heart, steamy moments, doubts, drama, strength, forgiveness, character/relationship growth and heartache. Grab some Kleenex. HEA.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 12, 2023
I’m used to Colleen’s hockey romances which I love, and I have to say that she most certainly didn’t disappoint in this genre either.
An emotional, heartwarming story, full of angst, drama, steam and absolutely wonderful, relatable characters that eventually get the HEA they so deserve.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
An emotional, heartwarming story, full of angst, drama, steam and absolutely wonderful, relatable characters that eventually get the HEA they so deserve.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 13, 2023
Wow! I’ve always been a big fan of Colleen Charles’ books, and this new book had definitely reinforced my fangirlness (not sure if that’s a real word but it is definitely an apt one!
Weston and Elowyn’s story I filled with trauma, angst, difficult family relationships on both sides!
But it’s also filled with hope, love and some serious steam!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ for Wasted On You!
Weston and Elowyn’s story I filled with trauma, angst, difficult family relationships on both sides!
But it’s also filled with hope, love and some serious steam!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ for Wasted On You!
July 22, 2023
This was a meaningful written story. I loved the dual, first person point of view which is a deal breaker for me. Broken characters, good writing and you have yourself a good story. This author never disappoints.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews