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Vacant
Ethan Parker gets up every day, surviving the only way he knows how — alone. Orphaned as a child and forced into the child welfare system, he knows better than to depend on anyone but himself. He’s learned trust is a word used all too often, but rarely earned. Ethan believes that his best chance for maintaining a simple and solitary existence is to live by a simple mantra: Don’t get involved. Keep things simple. Take care of yourself!
When a young woman moves in next door, Ethan is forced to reevaluate his beliefs. He tries to keep his distance, but his new neighbor’s infectious smile and outlook on life leave him struggling with the decision of living the life he knows, or taking a chance on the unexpected. As Ethan develops a relationship with his new neighbor, Emily, he realizes nothing is simple and learns that life is about more than just surviving... it’s about living.
When a young woman moves in next door, Ethan is forced to reevaluate his beliefs. He tries to keep his distance, but his new neighbor’s infectious smile and outlook on life leave him struggling with the decision of living the life he knows, or taking a chance on the unexpected. As Ethan develops a relationship with his new neighbor, Emily, he realizes nothing is simple and learns that life is about more than just surviving... it’s about living.
85 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 23, 2012
9 people are currently reading
1016 people want to read
About the author
Evelyn R. Baldwin
3 books55 followersShe’s written short stories since childhood but only recently began exercising her real writing muscles. While she does not consider herself a professional writer in any sense of the word, she continues to polish her craft and hopes for success in her writing ventures, even if they are just as a hobby.
After moving to St. Louis to attend college, she earned a degree in Education. During her Master’s program, Evelyn discovered her fascination with behavior and psychology.
Her first professional job experience was as a juvenile counselor, which led her to venture into other human sciences, eventually making a career with Behavior Analysis. While writing is a hobby for Evelyn, she often uses her experiences with human behavior to guide her characters.
After moving to St. Louis to attend college, she earned a degree in Education. During her Master’s program, Evelyn discovered her fascination with behavior and psychology.
Her first professional job experience was as a juvenile counselor, which led her to venture into other human sciences, eventually making a career with Behavior Analysis. While writing is a hobby for Evelyn, she often uses her experiences with human behavior to guide her characters.
After moving to St. Louis to attend college, she earned a degree in Education. During her Master’s program, Evelyn discovered her fascination with behavior and psychology.
Her first professional job experience was as a juvenile counselor, which led her to venture into other human sciences, eventually making a career with Behavior Analysis. While writing is a hobby for Evelyn, she often uses her experiences with human behavior to guide her characters.
After moving to St. Louis to attend college, she earned a degree in Education. During her Master’s program, Evelyn discovered her fascination with behavior and psychology.
Her first professional job experience was as a juvenile counselor, which led her to venture into other human sciences, eventually making a career with Behavior Analysis. While writing is a hobby for Evelyn, she often uses her experiences with human behavior to guide her characters.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 116 reviews
February 24, 2013
Vacant by Evelyn R. Baldwin is thoroughly enjoyable and realistically emotional.
We follow the life story of Ethan, our shy and 'always been a loner' type male character, and his journey which leads him to opening his heart and life to another.
He doesn't have much... but what he does have, he's happy and content with.
Ethan is left 'alone' at a young age when his innocent father get's murdered...
The book takes off from Ethan's 21st birthday, but past memories are recalled and you learn how the area's of his life manifested to where he is at that moment, sitting alone at his kitchen table, thankful for the 'very' little he actually has. You can not help but instantly fall in love with him.
Moment's later, we are introduced to Emily, your leading lady...
Against Ethan's better judgement, he opens his heart and home to Emily and so begins the basis of the tale.
Not only did I thoroughly enjoy reading Vacant, the writing style and the easy, uncomplicated flow of the book was beautifully presented.
A short, but powerful novella, Vacant is one of those books that will always be remembered long after you have finished reading it - It will grab a piece of your heart.
"Looking in the mirror, I see a man whose extraordinarily proud. While I may not be the mama bird watching her baby bird fly from the nest, there is still pride deep in my chest. Emily graduates today from high school. It’s an accomplishment, which given the circumstances, is astounding. Today is special, and it’s the first time I’ve ever worn a tie, so I check it one last time. My tie isn’t the only surprise I have for Emily today. I purchased my very first car this morning, and I plan to drive Emily to her graduation in a 1998 Toyota Corolla."
Sure it has adult situations... but it's not at all about that. The major theme in this book is about growing up and growing together... accepting the things you cannot have and savoring the special moments in life, when all you can afford is to appreciate the little things money cannot buy.
I was pleasantly surprised by the outcome of this book. I was sure it was an erotic read, but it didn't run that course. It was more of a New Adult if I have to sit down and compare genre's. There is a young adult version available for those of you not old enough to read about naked people or... for those of you afraid to read about sex-y situations... It's essentially the same story, just without all the really steamy bits :) - If it doesn't have that sexy guy on the cover... you reading the kiddies version...lol
If you have only 1 hour left to live and you don't know how to spend that time... Quickly give your family and friends a farewell kiss and grab Vacant... I guarantee you will die happy and thankful for the life you have lived!
We follow the life story of Ethan, our shy and 'always been a loner' type male character, and his journey which leads him to opening his heart and life to another.
He doesn't have much... but what he does have, he's happy and content with.
Ethan is left 'alone' at a young age when his innocent father get's murdered...
The book takes off from Ethan's 21st birthday, but past memories are recalled and you learn how the area's of his life manifested to where he is at that moment, sitting alone at his kitchen table, thankful for the 'very' little he actually has. You can not help but instantly fall in love with him.
Moment's later, we are introduced to Emily, your leading lady...
Against Ethan's better judgement, he opens his heart and home to Emily and so begins the basis of the tale.
Not only did I thoroughly enjoy reading Vacant, the writing style and the easy, uncomplicated flow of the book was beautifully presented.
A short, but powerful novella, Vacant is one of those books that will always be remembered long after you have finished reading it - It will grab a piece of your heart.
"Looking in the mirror, I see a man whose extraordinarily proud. While I may not be the mama bird watching her baby bird fly from the nest, there is still pride deep in my chest. Emily graduates today from high school. It’s an accomplishment, which given the circumstances, is astounding. Today is special, and it’s the first time I’ve ever worn a tie, so I check it one last time. My tie isn’t the only surprise I have for Emily today. I purchased my very first car this morning, and I plan to drive Emily to her graduation in a 1998 Toyota Corolla."
Sure it has adult situations... but it's not at all about that. The major theme in this book is about growing up and growing together... accepting the things you cannot have and savoring the special moments in life, when all you can afford is to appreciate the little things money cannot buy.
I was pleasantly surprised by the outcome of this book. I was sure it was an erotic read, but it didn't run that course. It was more of a New Adult if I have to sit down and compare genre's. There is a young adult version available for those of you not old enough to read about naked people or... for those of you afraid to read about sex-y situations... It's essentially the same story, just without all the really steamy bits :) - If it doesn't have that sexy guy on the cover... you reading the kiddies version...lol
If you have only 1 hour left to live and you don't know how to spend that time... Quickly give your family and friends a farewell kiss and grab Vacant... I guarantee you will die happy and thankful for the life you have lived!
March 14, 2013
This was such an uplifting and powerful short story. It’s a tale of stepping out of the darkness. blinking in the light, a story of learning to love and be loved.
It reads almost like a fable as we follow Ethan & Emily who are both on the threshold of adulthood and have arrived there without the normal emotional support network. They’re both orphaned and are trying to find their way in an unfeeling world, unloved and closed off emotionally.
Bumping into one another will turn out to be THE best thing that has ever happened to them. They both pretty much broke my heart at the beginning. Ethan has learned to live like an island – he does what he has to, no more, no less and he doesn’t connect with anyone anymore than he has to. He’s minimalistic both physically and emotionally – he’s just functioning, not really living.
Emily is a little bit more optimistic and starry-eyed, trusting too easily and she is a scared young girl, trying to make her way in a world that really doesn’t care and has turned its back on her. She’s living but not really coping and is a disaster waiting to happen.
Ethan and Emily are like two halves of a heart necklace – they really do complete each other. Ethan provides for Emily the security and protection so cruelly denied to her and Emily gives Ethan a reason to live, a reason to care and slowly, over years, their relationship blossoms into full bloom and it’s beautiful to watch.
It’s a very idealistic tale, hence the fable reference, as they come full circle and eventually reach out to help children who find themselves in similar situations to the ones they had been brought up in. It’s a short read but it packs a powerful emotional punch.
4 stars
For more reviews, please visit Sinfully Sexy Book Reviews or visit us on Facebook.
It reads almost like a fable as we follow Ethan & Emily who are both on the threshold of adulthood and have arrived there without the normal emotional support network. They’re both orphaned and are trying to find their way in an unfeeling world, unloved and closed off emotionally.
Bumping into one another will turn out to be THE best thing that has ever happened to them. They both pretty much broke my heart at the beginning. Ethan has learned to live like an island – he does what he has to, no more, no less and he doesn’t connect with anyone anymore than he has to. He’s minimalistic both physically and emotionally – he’s just functioning, not really living.
Emily is a little bit more optimistic and starry-eyed, trusting too easily and she is a scared young girl, trying to make her way in a world that really doesn’t care and has turned its back on her. She’s living but not really coping and is a disaster waiting to happen.
Ethan and Emily are like two halves of a heart necklace – they really do complete each other. Ethan provides for Emily the security and protection so cruelly denied to her and Emily gives Ethan a reason to live, a reason to care and slowly, over years, their relationship blossoms into full bloom and it’s beautiful to watch.
It’s a very idealistic tale, hence the fable reference, as they come full circle and eventually reach out to help children who find themselves in similar situations to the ones they had been brought up in. It’s a short read but it packs a powerful emotional punch.
4 stars
For more reviews, please visit Sinfully Sexy Book Reviews or visit us on Facebook.
March 28, 2013
Short, but very interesting. I'm not a huge fan of novellas, in all honesty. But the cover, blurb, and the fact that it's intended for 'adult' audiences really grabbed my attention. I just had to give it a try. I was actually surprised how much I enjoyed it.
Although the adult version, it wasn't quite as hot as I expected. I like the story, I like the characters... it was kind of tantalizing, just enough to care about the characters but leaves you wanting more. I also felt that the 'adult' parts of the book were very organic. It wasn't a string of bedroom scenes with a patchwork plot to hold it together. Quite the opposite. No insta-love, but rather more innocent desire that slowly builds.
Ethan is soft, shy, and has such a good heart. It's always lovely to get to 'hear' the male POV in a book. There isn't nearly enough of that out there. He had been given a rough hand in life; raised in 'the system'. Despite his best efforts to just carve out a large enough space to exist and only interact with the world in the narrowest of definitions, someone gets through his defenses and worms her way into his life. I love how all his attempts to hold 'life' at arm's reach were as useless as wet toilet paper tent.
Emily was this odd combination of naive and jaded. We don't get as many looks into her POV, so I wasn't as connected with her side of the story. I'll also admit there was that split second thought, for a moment, when I knew it was an 'adult' book and felt uncomfortable with Emily. There was this awkwardness that permeated the spicy scenes that just deflated passion. I wasn't overjoyed with Emily overall, but was OK with everything by the end.
Overall, it's a lovely romance with more realistic between the sheets action rather than a glossed-over, dramatic, artificial romances. Good book to slip between others or for a light, but more true-to-life romance.
I received a free eBook via CBL Tours in exchange for a review. My thoughts are my own.
Although the adult version, it wasn't quite as hot as I expected. I like the story, I like the characters... it was kind of tantalizing, just enough to care about the characters but leaves you wanting more. I also felt that the 'adult' parts of the book were very organic. It wasn't a string of bedroom scenes with a patchwork plot to hold it together. Quite the opposite. No insta-love, but rather more innocent desire that slowly builds.
Ethan is soft, shy, and has such a good heart. It's always lovely to get to 'hear' the male POV in a book. There isn't nearly enough of that out there. He had been given a rough hand in life; raised in 'the system'. Despite his best efforts to just carve out a large enough space to exist and only interact with the world in the narrowest of definitions, someone gets through his defenses and worms her way into his life. I love how all his attempts to hold 'life' at arm's reach were as useless as wet toilet paper tent.
Emily was this odd combination of naive and jaded. We don't get as many looks into her POV, so I wasn't as connected with her side of the story. I'll also admit there was that split second thought, for a moment, when I knew it was an 'adult' book and felt uncomfortable with Emily. There was this awkwardness that permeated the spicy scenes that just deflated passion. I wasn't overjoyed with Emily overall, but was OK with everything by the end.
Overall, it's a lovely romance with more realistic between the sheets action rather than a glossed-over, dramatic, artificial romances. Good book to slip between others or for a light, but more true-to-life romance.
I received a free eBook via CBL Tours in exchange for a review. My thoughts are my own.
March 13, 2017
Candy floss sweet, srsly you will need a cavity check after this one, but utterly adorable story of two lost people coming together and finding love. Extra epilogues for the win. This is a short sweet little heart warmer and a nice read.
February 25, 2013
Well.. sadly I didn't loved this like other people did.
So I give 3 Stars! and still feel generous about it.
The whole story line... it was a total mood killer. There was no theme development there. Only jumping from subject to subject.
I'm actually surprised with myself cause I tend to support young/new writers no matter what.. But It was nothing like I expected.
And "Mayhem Erotica"? Seriously?
My first thought after I finished this was - "puh-lease!"
I actually don't really know what this was. I'm very disappointed.
This could have been such a good story.
I assume it was, in the authors head. But honestly, we can't read minds.
I think it's the harshest review of mine so far.
But I just feel mad.
It wasn't even that beautiful of a story, it was naive.
On the other hand, there were few very important subjects brought to attention. So maybe that's why I don't give it only 1 star.
And I actually laughed - 2 times, that helps to.
So consider yourself warned!
Peace
More @
So I give 3 Stars! and still feel generous about it.
The whole story line... it was a total mood killer. There was no theme development there. Only jumping from subject to subject.
I'm actually surprised with myself cause I tend to support young/new writers no matter what.. But It was nothing like I expected.
And "Mayhem Erotica"? Seriously?
My first thought after I finished this was - "puh-lease!"
I actually don't really know what this was. I'm very disappointed.
This could have been such a good story.
I assume it was, in the authors head. But honestly, we can't read minds.
I think it's the harshest review of mine so far.
But I just feel mad.
It wasn't even that beautiful of a story, it was naive.
On the other hand, there were few very important subjects brought to attention. So maybe that's why I don't give it only 1 star.
And I actually laughed - 2 times, that helps to.
So consider yourself warned!
Peace
More @
February 25, 2013
Thought this is a short read, it covers a long time span. It being the "adult" version by no means throws it in to an erotica category, though it IS mature. It is a just a sweet sweet love story about two young people who make the best out of a really crappy situation in both of their teen years. Loved!
February 25, 2013
Such a beautiful book!!
So innocent, so pure. It should growth, struggle, compassion, love, trust and happiness.
An absolutely must read, its a package of emotions!~
So innocent, so pure. It should growth, struggle, compassion, love, trust and happiness.
An absolutely must read, its a package of emotions!~
August 6, 2019
This is sickly sweet & I read it on my commute.
February 27, 2013
Beautiful book! I absolutely loved it! The characters experience real life trials and are forced to deal with the consequences of each decision they make. I loved the progression of the relationship between Ethan & Emily. Reading this i felt as though these characters could be real people. Excellent writing, truly. Looking forward to your next book!
February 26, 2013
I'm floored by how simple yet touching this story was. 2 lonely lives brought together with so much love. a really quick yet enjoyable read.
April 27, 2017
Vacant by Evelyn R. Baldwin
5 LOVE POINTS
This book was a great love story. It was really short and easy to read. The chemistry between the couple grows and it is really sweet .
Ethan Parker gets up every day, surviving the only way he knows how—alone. He is a sort of loner.Living alone for 3 years after leaving foster system has made him like that.
Emily grew up in the same environment as Ethan grew up but was cheerful and lively.
A girl who is squatting next door. He can hear her sobs through the paper thin walls every night. Ethan keeps telling himself to keep his life simple, and not get involved, but there is a soft spot in his heart he doesn't even know exists. He decides to, " pay it forward," and help Emily. Emily's mom died, while living in a shelter, and she was left on her own. She tells Ethan she is going to be 18, but he finds out she is really only going to be 16.He could not make him self leave her alone so sticks around with her
THIS is a wonderful book , and the way emily breaks through the walls ethan had made around him makes it more special.Leading to happy ever after type story.
5 LOVE POINTS
This book was a great love story. It was really short and easy to read. The chemistry between the couple grows and it is really sweet .
Ethan Parker gets up every day, surviving the only way he knows how—alone. He is a sort of loner.Living alone for 3 years after leaving foster system has made him like that.
Emily grew up in the same environment as Ethan grew up but was cheerful and lively.
A girl who is squatting next door. He can hear her sobs through the paper thin walls every night. Ethan keeps telling himself to keep his life simple, and not get involved, but there is a soft spot in his heart he doesn't even know exists. He decides to, " pay it forward," and help Emily. Emily's mom died, while living in a shelter, and she was left on her own. She tells Ethan she is going to be 18, but he finds out she is really only going to be 16.He could not make him self leave her alone so sticks around with her
THIS is a wonderful book , and the way emily breaks through the walls ethan had made around him makes it more special.Leading to happy ever after type story.
February 26, 2013
I am reviewing the Adult Version of this book but there is also a clean version for the young adult crowd. Vacant by author Evelyn R. Baldwin was a book I heard about on another blog and it sounded interesting to me. When I purchased it at $3.99, I forgot to check out the page numbers like I usually do when purchasing e-books. I am a firm believer that if your book is a short story/novella that is coming in under 100 pages, then the price should be no more than $1.99. This is a personal decision, but I was a little bit disappointed in myself for not realizing that I paid $3.99 for a book that only came in at 85 pages according to Amazon.
**personal rant over...on with the review**
I have to say that I really enjoyed this short story. I loved how Ethan came from a hard life but still had the compassion and love in his heart still to take in Emily when she was needing it. I liked the slow build-up of their romance and the way the pace was in it. Even though it was short, and the characters grow from months to years even, I think if the author had made this longer it would have been just words to fill the pages to make a word count. The only part that felt rushed was the last two or so chapters. I know that short stories need to wrap up fairly quickly, but the rushed ending was like a sprint for the finish line to make the reader happy after all the good we just read earlier. Again, this was the adult version with their being adult like scenes of sex. I am assuming that in the clean version, the author might have reworked those scenes or possibly cut them out. I am not sure which so be prepared when you purchase to get the one that you prefer.
Even though the ending wasn't what I would have wanted lengthwise, I still thought this book was written wonderfully. The author has a great voice, one that kept me interested and wanting more. I am currently eyeing a few of her previous works for future reads, but I am hoping they will be longer so I can enjoy it for a longer amount of reading time.
**personal rant over...on with the review**
I have to say that I really enjoyed this short story. I loved how Ethan came from a hard life but still had the compassion and love in his heart still to take in Emily when she was needing it. I liked the slow build-up of their romance and the way the pace was in it. Even though it was short, and the characters grow from months to years even, I think if the author had made this longer it would have been just words to fill the pages to make a word count. The only part that felt rushed was the last two or so chapters. I know that short stories need to wrap up fairly quickly, but the rushed ending was like a sprint for the finish line to make the reader happy after all the good we just read earlier. Again, this was the adult version with their being adult like scenes of sex. I am assuming that in the clean version, the author might have reworked those scenes or possibly cut them out. I am not sure which so be prepared when you purchase to get the one that you prefer.
Even though the ending wasn't what I would have wanted lengthwise, I still thought this book was written wonderfully. The author has a great voice, one that kept me interested and wanting more. I am currently eyeing a few of her previous works for future reads, but I am hoping they will be longer so I can enjoy it for a longer amount of reading time.
March 3, 2013
3.50 stars
Story: VERY GOOD
Intimacy Level: NICE/GOOD
Enjoyment: FAIRLY GOOD
Length: 1151 kindle / 85 pages
Style: New Adult, Contemporary Romance
I really enjoyed this story a lot. It was very simple yet interesting. Both characters tore at your heart because all they had was each other. The story is told from Ethan's point of view. As the story started, It gave a back story of Ethan's life. Ethan pretty much keeps to himself, he talks when it's necessary, doesn't go out and goes to work and then home. One particular day he meets his next door neighbor, Emily. While trying to mind is business, he couldn't help but notice Emily for more than obvious reasons. Emily is not what she appears to be, but as time goes on, Emily and Ethan needed each other, thus begin their life as two lonely people connecting with each other. What will touch the reader about this story is the emotions and feelings springing from both characters. The ending, I have to say made me cry a bit, I wasn't expecting that kind of ending, but it was fitting as the couple came full circle with their life.
Why I gave this story 3.5 stars, as much as I fell in love with both characters, I felt as though I was reading the story on super fast forward. As you are comfortable in a scene it then jumps to another and it left me thinking, wow. An example, you are reading a particular scene with Emily and Ethan, next thing I knew, it's two years later and so on. For other readers, this may not be a problem, but I personally felt as though everything was going by so fast. I also thought it would have been more erotica.Overall though, a very touching story that I found interesting.
RNJ
http://www.romancenoveljunkies.com/So...
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Story: VERY GOOD
Intimacy Level: NICE/GOOD
Enjoyment: FAIRLY GOOD
Length: 1151 kindle / 85 pages
Style: New Adult, Contemporary Romance
I really enjoyed this story a lot. It was very simple yet interesting. Both characters tore at your heart because all they had was each other. The story is told from Ethan's point of view. As the story started, It gave a back story of Ethan's life. Ethan pretty much keeps to himself, he talks when it's necessary, doesn't go out and goes to work and then home. One particular day he meets his next door neighbor, Emily. While trying to mind is business, he couldn't help but notice Emily for more than obvious reasons. Emily is not what she appears to be, but as time goes on, Emily and Ethan needed each other, thus begin their life as two lonely people connecting with each other. What will touch the reader about this story is the emotions and feelings springing from both characters. The ending, I have to say made me cry a bit, I wasn't expecting that kind of ending, but it was fitting as the couple came full circle with their life.
Why I gave this story 3.5 stars, as much as I fell in love with both characters, I felt as though I was reading the story on super fast forward. As you are comfortable in a scene it then jumps to another and it left me thinking, wow. An example, you are reading a particular scene with Emily and Ethan, next thing I knew, it's two years later and so on. For other readers, this may not be a problem, but I personally felt as though everything was going by so fast. I also thought it would have been more erotica.Overall though, a very touching story that I found interesting.
RNJ
http://www.romancenoveljunkies.com/So...
http://pinterest.com/ladyravenrave/ro...
March 22, 2013
This book was a great love story. It was really short and easy to read. The chemistry between the couple grows and it is really sweet (and if you have the adult book HOT at times). My only problem is that it was WAY too short, I needed more. It was kinda like eating chips for dinner. Good but didn't fill me up. I felt like I was reading a long excerpt. I would have really loved a duel POV, which there was a few chapters from Emily, but I would have liked to know what she was thinking through a couple of the scenes.. actually the whole book. Plus, even though their love for one another grew, it didn't give you really any details. This book could be devastatingly wonderful if it were expanded. I know this review sounds mostly negative, but the book as it is was great!
Cover and Writing
I love this cover. The writing was easy to read and relate to, as I said it could be expanded upon.
Swoonworthy points: 7
You grow to fall in love with Ethan and the lengths that he's willing to go through to take care of Emily, especially considering the way his life had been up until that point. But when the time is just right and they both decide upon a relationship, it's pretty hot! :)
Final thoughts
Good quick, sweet, hot read.
Cover and Writing
I love this cover. The writing was easy to read and relate to, as I said it could be expanded upon.
Swoonworthy points: 7
You grow to fall in love with Ethan and the lengths that he's willing to go through to take care of Emily, especially considering the way his life had been up until that point. But when the time is just right and they both decide upon a relationship, it's pretty hot! :)
Final thoughts
Good quick, sweet, hot read.
June 19, 2013
Ethan has no family to speak of, he's kept himself distanced from people, when asked out for drinks with co-workers, he politely declines their offers, he's got little money, lives in a bad part of town and can just about to afford to feed himself. He's alone, living by a simple mantra: Don’t get involved.
When Emily moves in next door, Ethan tries to keep his distance. But her personality and attractiveness is hard to overlook, so is her night-time sobbing and the lack of water at her home.
Because of Emily, Ethan begins to look at life differently, he feels as if he doesn't just want to survive, he wants to live.
Ethan is the perfect loner and Emily is an innocent fun loving teen. Most of the book is told from Ethan's POV. The book also contains a few chapters of each time in Ethan's life, the book spans over around 17 years (or thereabouts I think), even though it's a short book, the story ends well and finishes well because of the time-frame.
When Emily moves in next door, Ethan tries to keep his distance. But her personality and attractiveness is hard to overlook, so is her night-time sobbing and the lack of water at her home.
Because of Emily, Ethan begins to look at life differently, he feels as if he doesn't just want to survive, he wants to live.
Ethan is the perfect loner and Emily is an innocent fun loving teen. Most of the book is told from Ethan's POV. The book also contains a few chapters of each time in Ethan's life, the book spans over around 17 years (or thereabouts I think), even though it's a short book, the story ends well and finishes well because of the time-frame.
March 3, 2013
When I finally got around to reading Vacant, I honestly wanted to slap myself. Why? Because I've been sitting on this book for months, putting it off for various reasons.
Within a few paragraphs, I realized what a mistake I had made.
Evelyn has added yet another swoonworthy guy to my book boyfriends shelf- Evan.
From the first page, Evan's words ensnared me, drawing me into his life and all the trials and tribulations he was forced to face as an innocent child.
As hardened as was by his past, all it took was finding a kindred spirit in Emily, someone he could, reluctantly, help out of a terrible and tragic situation, to make him realize his worth and that it was okay to love someone and let someone love you.
Vacant was touching and beautiful, and will always hold a place in my heart!
Within a few paragraphs, I realized what a mistake I had made.
Evelyn has added yet another swoonworthy guy to my book boyfriends shelf- Evan.
From the first page, Evan's words ensnared me, drawing me into his life and all the trials and tribulations he was forced to face as an innocent child.
As hardened as was by his past, all it took was finding a kindred spirit in Emily, someone he could, reluctantly, help out of a terrible and tragic situation, to make him realize his worth and that it was okay to love someone and let someone love you.
Vacant was touching and beautiful, and will always hold a place in my heart!
March 6, 2013
This was a cute little novella. Very short-could probably read it in an hour. I’m not sure why, though, that this is labeled as erotica? There’s nothing in it that doesn’t show up in your average adult romance. In fact, it was kind of tame even for that genre. Would have liked to have seen the sexy ramped up a little.
I enjoyed the Ethan POV over Emily’s and thankfully she really only has a couple chapters. The ending started to get a little too mushy/cheesy, but overall a nice little story to kill the time.
I enjoyed the Ethan POV over Emily’s and thankfully she really only has a couple chapters. The ending started to get a little too mushy/cheesy, but overall a nice little story to kill the time.
March 17, 2013
Ethan Parker is a sort of loner. When he comes to hear a girl crying night after night next door, he finally does the right thing. They form a friendship and bond that is really sweet. He has a bad past that is scarred him. As for Emily, her growing up is equally as bad. What I liked about the book was the potential. I know it was a novella, but it could rival some best sellers. I hope somewhere there is an extended version that would fill in the missing parts. I sincerely liked the book and felt like it was more of an outline to something that can be huge.
February 26, 2013
woa!
ok so that was profound!!
m not sure if the book was incredibly deep or incredibly silly!
but i can tell u this, i liked it, a LOT!
i don really get the note at which the book ended
but wadahell, how it got to that point was real good
it was short, it was sweet, it was wonderful
i still don understand whats so 'adult' about this version
it was just a lot of cute!
again, m not sure if it was incredibly deep or incredibly silly!!!
ok so that was profound!!
m not sure if the book was incredibly deep or incredibly silly!
but i can tell u this, i liked it, a LOT!
i don really get the note at which the book ended
but wadahell, how it got to that point was real good
it was short, it was sweet, it was wonderful
i still don understand whats so 'adult' about this version
it was just a lot of cute!
again, m not sure if it was incredibly deep or incredibly silly!!!
February 25, 2013
Words cannot express how much I love the ending of this book, Ive had many shit-tastic and mediocre reads in the last month and I have to say, thank fuck I got to read something I actually enjoyed! :)
Want to read
February 24, 2013Theres those same cover models again... They are on so many different books it's starting to bother me. Covers are important!
February 26, 2013
Fast read, but very enjoyable. A page turner which my short attention span loves.
December 23, 2018
3.5 stars!
March 26, 2013
Though a novella, the emotions, story line, and characterizations were well rounded and complete. You completely understood what was going on from the start. I am giving 4 stars only because it is a novella and I wanted the story to continue! I loved how the author was able to transcend the story through 15 yrs, not an easy feat for a novella but done very smoothly, believably, and with a good level of prose. This is also the "adult" version of the story. And yes, there were adult situations, but not enough that I would label the story erotic or naughty. I would also say this was more a New Adult genre. The adult scenes balanced well and made sense, they enhanced the story, without defining it. *There is also YA version of the story for the younger readers.
Now for the good stuff.
I loved Ethan and Emily. I found them adorable and completely engaging. Even with all the hurt, loss, and heat break they both suffered so early on in their lives. What would have broken so many only made these two stronger in their resolve for a better life. And once they came together, they strive to be better for each other, to build a happy life together. Not an easy thing considering both their backgrounds, and not without bumps in the road, insecurities, and misunderstandings.
Don’t get involved. Keep things simple. Take care of yourself!
Ethan's mantra he continuously says to himself through the first few chapters...until Emily enters his life.
Basically, Ethan has been on his own since his father died at 15. A product of the state system, he survived by keeping himself closed off and constantly reciting his mantra...
Don’t get involved. Keep things simple. Take care of yourself!
Once on his own, he secures a job in a local grocery store and a small rundown apartment. He is content but alone, choosing to stay to himself and not make any friends.
Emily stumbles in to his life one day and she is also alone, though her circumstances are very different. She and her mother are homeless. Tragically, her mother dies and Emily is left completely on her own. Refusing to enter the system, she runs away and squats in the apartment next to Ethan's. This is where their meeting takes place and the story takes off from.
I really enjoyed their growing relationship. I found them so endearing and realistic in the wants and dreams, especially their growing love for one another.
And then there is Margie, Ethan's boss at the grocery store. What a great secondary character. And though there were only glimpses of her here and there, her contribution to the story just made the flow that much smoother. She was a wonderful addition of a parental figure without being a parent.
Really just a good easy read and an author to keep an eye on for future works.
Now for the good stuff.
I loved Ethan and Emily. I found them adorable and completely engaging. Even with all the hurt, loss, and heat break they both suffered so early on in their lives. What would have broken so many only made these two stronger in their resolve for a better life. And once they came together, they strive to be better for each other, to build a happy life together. Not an easy thing considering both their backgrounds, and not without bumps in the road, insecurities, and misunderstandings.
Don’t get involved. Keep things simple. Take care of yourself!
Ethan's mantra he continuously says to himself through the first few chapters...until Emily enters his life.
Basically, Ethan has been on his own since his father died at 15. A product of the state system, he survived by keeping himself closed off and constantly reciting his mantra...
Don’t get involved. Keep things simple. Take care of yourself!
Once on his own, he secures a job in a local grocery store and a small rundown apartment. He is content but alone, choosing to stay to himself and not make any friends.
Emily stumbles in to his life one day and she is also alone, though her circumstances are very different. She and her mother are homeless. Tragically, her mother dies and Emily is left completely on her own. Refusing to enter the system, she runs away and squats in the apartment next to Ethan's. This is where their meeting takes place and the story takes off from.
I really enjoyed their growing relationship. I found them so endearing and realistic in the wants and dreams, especially their growing love for one another.
And then there is Margie, Ethan's boss at the grocery store. What a great secondary character. And though there were only glimpses of her here and there, her contribution to the story just made the flow that much smoother. She was a wonderful addition of a parental figure without being a parent.
Really just a good easy read and an author to keep an eye on for future works.
April 1, 2013
Vacant is a contemporary adult novella by Evelyn R. Baldwin. This particular version has some sexual content, though there is another version of this book that is clean. This story is told from a male point of view. Ethan is a young man that you can't help but feel sorry for. He was orphaned as a child, and has nobody in his life. When he turned 18, the state pretty much kicked him to the curb and he had to fend for himself. He is very much a loner. He goes to work each day, and comes home. That's it. He leads a rather sad and lonely life.
When this book starts, it is Ethan's 21st birthday. He is sitting home alone when his new neighbor knocks on his door asking for help with her window. Her name is Emily, and she is a teenage girl living alone. He finds out that she is an orphan too. Even though he wants to keep to himself, he finds that he keeps reaching out to her to help her. He knows exactly what she is going through and feels a need to protect her. Because she is underage, Ethan refuses to consider having a romantic relationship with her.
Unfortunately, this book is way too short. It's around 100 pages and spans 15 years. It jumps around a lot and seems very rushed. There are big chunks of time missing when these two are getting to know each other. It's hard to feel a connection with these two, when you don't really have a chance to see their relationship build. Also, while most of the book is told from Ethan's point of view, there are a couple of chapters randomly thrown in from Emily's point of view. It felt very odd.
The story as a whole, was good. It could have been great if it was longer and if Emily would have come into Ethan's life when she was older so there wouldn't have been so much time go by before their relationship started. Something that I really liked was the fact that there was an Autistic child that Ethan spent time with toward the end of the book. My son has Autism, so that little bit of Autism awareness included in the book meant a lot to me. There were actually several good messages that were included in this book.
The romance in this book was sweet, I just wish I could have read about their relationship more. I read that this version is considered erotic, but it's really not. There wasn't a lot of time devoted to sex, and it went into less detail than a lot of other non-erotic books I've read. The book was more about being able to be happy with what little you have in life – as long as you have the right person to share it with.
When this book starts, it is Ethan's 21st birthday. He is sitting home alone when his new neighbor knocks on his door asking for help with her window. Her name is Emily, and she is a teenage girl living alone. He finds out that she is an orphan too. Even though he wants to keep to himself, he finds that he keeps reaching out to her to help her. He knows exactly what she is going through and feels a need to protect her. Because she is underage, Ethan refuses to consider having a romantic relationship with her.
Unfortunately, this book is way too short. It's around 100 pages and spans 15 years. It jumps around a lot and seems very rushed. There are big chunks of time missing when these two are getting to know each other. It's hard to feel a connection with these two, when you don't really have a chance to see their relationship build. Also, while most of the book is told from Ethan's point of view, there are a couple of chapters randomly thrown in from Emily's point of view. It felt very odd.
The story as a whole, was good. It could have been great if it was longer and if Emily would have come into Ethan's life when she was older so there wouldn't have been so much time go by before their relationship started. Something that I really liked was the fact that there was an Autistic child that Ethan spent time with toward the end of the book. My son has Autism, so that little bit of Autism awareness included in the book meant a lot to me. There were actually several good messages that were included in this book.
The romance in this book was sweet, I just wish I could have read about their relationship more. I read that this version is considered erotic, but it's really not. There wasn't a lot of time devoted to sex, and it went into less detail than a lot of other non-erotic books I've read. The book was more about being able to be happy with what little you have in life – as long as you have the right person to share it with.
August 14, 2015
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http://fortheloveofbooksreviews.blogs...
Ethan has had a hard life. His father died when he was young and he had to spend some time in the foster care system. Now, he works at a grocery store and lives on a tight budget. When Emily moves in next door he becomes suspicious. She has no electricity, no running water, and no furniture.
He finds out that she is homeless and allows her to stay with him. This is the start of a journey of life, death and heartbreak, and of a blooming love.
This is a contemporary romance novella. It took me less than a day to finish but it made a big impact. A very emotional story, it detailed the ups and downs experienced by Ethan and Emily, and the beauty of love.
I read the adult version, which included erotic scenes. However there weren't many and they were sweet and realistic.
As for the emotional parts of the story, I have to say that it was incredibly emotional from the beginning to the very end. There was not a single wasted word in this story, everything was there for a reason and the author succeeded in pulling at my feelings and making me care for the characters.
While this can be considered a contemporary romance, it is so much more than that. It depicts what life can be like for the less fortunate, it details the journey of a raw and real love. There isn't any 'fluff' in this book, and while I enjoy fluffy romances, this was an interesting change.
I recommend this book to fans of contemporary romance and to those looking for a good novella. If you like books that depict the tougher parts of life, this is definitely for you.
http://fortheloveofbooksreviews.blogs...
Ethan has had a hard life. His father died when he was young and he had to spend some time in the foster care system. Now, he works at a grocery store and lives on a tight budget. When Emily moves in next door he becomes suspicious. She has no electricity, no running water, and no furniture.
He finds out that she is homeless and allows her to stay with him. This is the start of a journey of life, death and heartbreak, and of a blooming love.
This is a contemporary romance novella. It took me less than a day to finish but it made a big impact. A very emotional story, it detailed the ups and downs experienced by Ethan and Emily, and the beauty of love.
I read the adult version, which included erotic scenes. However there weren't many and they were sweet and realistic.
As for the emotional parts of the story, I have to say that it was incredibly emotional from the beginning to the very end. There was not a single wasted word in this story, everything was there for a reason and the author succeeded in pulling at my feelings and making me care for the characters.
While this can be considered a contemporary romance, it is so much more than that. It depicts what life can be like for the less fortunate, it details the journey of a raw and real love. There isn't any 'fluff' in this book, and while I enjoy fluffy romances, this was an interesting change.
I recommend this book to fans of contemporary romance and to those looking for a good novella. If you like books that depict the tougher parts of life, this is definitely for you.
July 22, 2013
3 1/2 stars, This is a sweet story about a boy and girl who have both had hard lives, Emily trusts and smiles easily but cries herself to sleep while Ethan holds himself back from everyone and is mostly alone. Ethan grew up mostly neglected then ended up in the system and now finds himself all alone living in an apartment and spending his days working at a groceries store. When Emily moves in next door Ethan keeps to his motto of don't get involved till Emily comes knocking and asking for help. Emily's smile and kindness quickly rub off on Ethan and he finds himself helping her more and more and enjoying his time with her. But Ethan soon realizes that Emily doesn't really have a home.
Ethan and Emily find themselves living together but factors in life keep them apart. As they continue to spend more and more time together and growing older Ethan and Emily can't deny their love and attraction to each other. But Ethan will have to get over his fears and feeling of self worth in order for them to be together. This was a sweet story about Ethan and Emily growing up together and finding love and acceptance in each other. I really liked that this book spanned many years in their lives together and we get to see how their lives turn out when they are older and have children. I would have liked to have felt more of a connection between Ethan and Emily but overall this was a really nice quick sweet read.
Ethan and Emily find themselves living together but factors in life keep them apart. As they continue to spend more and more time together and growing older Ethan and Emily can't deny their love and attraction to each other. But Ethan will have to get over his fears and feeling of self worth in order for them to be together. This was a sweet story about Ethan and Emily growing up together and finding love and acceptance in each other. I really liked that this book spanned many years in their lives together and we get to see how their lives turn out when they are older and have children. I would have liked to have felt more of a connection between Ethan and Emily but overall this was a really nice quick sweet read.
March 20, 2013
For this review and more Live Read and Breathe
Live Read and Breathe Giveaway
So I didn't know what to expect out of this novella but I found it a sweet love story with enough adult to keep me invested to the passion of Emily and Ethan.
It was an unconventional love story with heartache and hope and lots and lots of unconditional love. I found for a novella it was a nice pace with evolution without being to rushed while still hooking you in to the emotions of Ethan and Emily.
Fate and love are powerful things especially when we least expect it in a life filled with more negative than positive. But going through a shit life and getting a happy ending that you deserve and fills you with joy, love and happiness is worth it in the end.
I loved Ethan and Emily together and I loved the growth and commitment of the two. Great novella.
Live Read and Breathe Giveaway
So I didn't know what to expect out of this novella but I found it a sweet love story with enough adult to keep me invested to the passion of Emily and Ethan.
It was an unconventional love story with heartache and hope and lots and lots of unconditional love. I found for a novella it was a nice pace with evolution without being to rushed while still hooking you in to the emotions of Ethan and Emily.
Fate and love are powerful things especially when we least expect it in a life filled with more negative than positive. But going through a shit life and getting a happy ending that you deserve and fills you with joy, love and happiness is worth it in the end.
I loved Ethan and Emily together and I loved the growth and commitment of the two. Great novella.
March 15, 2013
This isn't a typical romance book. It's a wonderful love story that the couple pays if forward. Ethan just seemed to be existing not really living until Emily came into his life. It was so heart warming what he did for Emily and how much he respected her. Their story just doesn't end when they finally fall in love but rather the author takes us through the years- 15 of them on how their relationship evolves. There are some hot steamy sex scenes. Fantastic ending and a quick read.
Quotes:
"I need air, and I need Emily."
"There isn't a bouquet of flowers big enough for Margie right now."
"she is wearing a tank and panty set I'm pretty sure was intended for a toddler and not a full grown woman."
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Quotes:
"I need air, and I need Emily."
"There isn't a bouquet of flowers big enough for Margie right now."
"she is wearing a tank and panty set I'm pretty sure was intended for a toddler and not a full grown woman."
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January 16, 2015
Even for a novella, this was incredibly rushed! Fitting fifteen years into 90 pages isn't reasonable and causes the story to feel rushed and choppy. Add to that the structural and grammatical problems and the story is a bit of a catastrophe.
I actually didn't like Ethan and Emily together. Because of the story's lack of development, it felt awkward and creepy. I could really only view them in a brother/sister capacity so when the inevitable relationship occurred, it was beyond weird!
"Vacant" felt so unfocused and lacking in substantial development that I felt I was reading a timeline rather than a story.
I actually didn't like Ethan and Emily together. Because of the story's lack of development, it felt awkward and creepy. I could really only view them in a brother/sister capacity so when the inevitable relationship occurred, it was beyond weird!
"Vacant" felt so unfocused and lacking in substantial development that I felt I was reading a timeline rather than a story.
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