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Second Chances #1
Relinquishing Liberty
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On the outside, Liberty Davis appeared to have it all…a loving family, a tight knit circle of friends, and a bright future ahead of her. Everything was perfect. That is until her brother tragically took his own life, turning her whole world upside down.
Left to pick up the pieces of her broken family, Liberty is faced with focusing all of her attention on helping her parents cope with the loss of their son, while putting her own life on the back burner. But what no one seems to realize is that she is just as broken inside.
Now, four years later, twenty year old Liberty is taking back the reins of her life. She leaves behind everything she’s ever known, hoping to make a fresh start…one where she isn’t faced with the constant reminder that her brother is nothing more than faded memory. What she didn’t expect to find along the way was Shayne.
Tall, dark and tattooed, Shayne Thompson has developed quite a reputation for being a player. Despite everyone’s negative perception, Liberty still finds herself drawn to him. When she learns that Shayne knows all too well what it feels like to lose someone you love, she finds that they have a lot more in common than just a physical attraction.
When Liberty discovers a secret from Shayne’s past that threatens to tear them apart, she begins to question everything she’s ever felt for him. Will Liberty choose to follow her heart or will she give up the one person who finally made her feel whole again?
**This story contains language and sexual scenes, some of which may be unsuitable for younger readers.**
On the outside, Liberty Davis appeared to have it all…a loving family, a tight knit circle of friends, and a bright future ahead of her. Everything was perfect. That is until her brother tragically took his own life, turning her whole world upside down.
Left to pick up the pieces of her broken family, Liberty is faced with focusing all of her attention on helping her parents cope with the loss of their son, while putting her own life on the back burner. But what no one seems to realize is that she is just as broken inside.
Now, four years later, twenty year old Liberty is taking back the reins of her life. She leaves behind everything she’s ever known, hoping to make a fresh start…one where she isn’t faced with the constant reminder that her brother is nothing more than faded memory. What she didn’t expect to find along the way was Shayne.
Tall, dark and tattooed, Shayne Thompson has developed quite a reputation for being a player. Despite everyone’s negative perception, Liberty still finds herself drawn to him. When she learns that Shayne knows all too well what it feels like to lose someone you love, she finds that they have a lot more in common than just a physical attraction.
When Liberty discovers a secret from Shayne’s past that threatens to tear them apart, she begins to question everything she’s ever felt for him. Will Liberty choose to follow her heart or will she give up the one person who finally made her feel whole again?
**This story contains language and sexual scenes, some of which may be unsuitable for younger readers.**
370 pages, Paperback
First published August 25, 2013
80 people are currently reading
2356 people want to read
About the author
Maureen Mayer
8 books369 followersMaureen Mayer was born and raised in Buffalo, NY, and most recently relocated to Columbia, MD with her loving and supportive husband. She's always had a great love for the outdoors and can often be found hiking, fishing, camping, or lying on the beach. She's a sucker for off-color humor, but holds a sweet spot for sick and twisted horror films. When she's not writing, you can find her curled up in bed with her kindle, diving into a steamy romance novel and falling in love with the latest book boyfriend.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 135 reviews
August 17, 2015
I wrote it, so of course I'm going to give it 5 stars! Hope you guys enjoy it!
Update: Unforeseen Heartbeat (Second Chances #2) and Bittersweet Catastrophe (Second Chances #2.5) are now live!
Update: Unforeseen Heartbeat (Second Chances #2) and Bittersweet Catastrophe (Second Chances #2.5) are now live!
August 27, 2013
I don't really know where to start with this review. Having read the synopsis for "Relinquishing Liberty" this book showed a lot of promise. It seemed to have all the characteristics I like in a good romance novel (a broken heroine, a tattoo'd bad boy, a harrowing past and secrets that were just waiting to surface and cause havoc).
Unfortunately a couple of chapters in, things started to go a little wrong for me. I'm not saying this book was completely bad, just that I really struggled to connect with both the story line as it unfolded and then with the characters as they developed.
Initially, I did like Liberty. She was strong, determined and even feisty. She wasn't going to let the events of her past rule her future. Great right? When she met Brett, I thought "This looks promising and he's a hottie" Then she met "Shayne." And I thought "Uh Oh" but not in a bad way. But from the moment the following words left her mouth, everything just went south for me:
With everyone she met, she seemed to contradict herself because she got really close to Brett and Maddie very quickly and then when her path crossed with Shayne it was virtually inta love. She seemed to pour her heart out to anyone that would listen including Shayne's father who she had literally just met. I'm not sure that's the kind of information you would share with your new boyfriend's father.(remember this is only my opinion).
I really liked Brett's character initially and I liked that he was there in a brotherly capacity. Just the kind of support Liberty needed. Then he just turned weird and a little desperate. Brotherly love went out of the window and he wanted so much more. Why oh why did she agree to go on a date with him????? I just felt that she couldn't be so naive that she didn't realise why he was behaving the way he was. He'd made it pretty obvious.
In terms of the sex, there's nothing wrong with being a virgin, absolutely nothing but never having had an orgasm??? Never??? Not even giving herself one? For someone so innocent, she seemed to catch up with the whole sex thing pretty quickly but again, it just didn't seem natural. The dialogue didn't flow naturally and there were so many eye rolling moments where I just kept thinking "really????"
I loved Shayne's character. It was hot as hell, had tattoo's (just how I like them) and he was an old romantic (big sigh). His character wasn't how I thought he would be. He was kind, caring, protective and his southern lingo melted me! He definitely wasn't the player everyone made him out to be (yes in his younger days but not now). I did guess the secret, to me it was kinda obvious but I was hoping there might be something more. I was hoping for maybe a connection to Liberty's past, especially since her brother had killed himself four years ago and Shayne's life had also changed around the same time. Unfortunately that was just wishful thinking on my part.
I know it takes a lot for an author to write a book and I truly take my hat off to each and everyone of them because it takes guts. A lot of people have loved this book but it just wasn't for me. I did finish it because I wanted to give to see if my feelings towards to story or the characters would change. Unfortunately they didn't. I have rated it 2.5 Stars. There were some good bits but there were also some eye rolling, cringe worthy moments too.
Unfortunately a couple of chapters in, things started to go a little wrong for me. I'm not saying this book was completely bad, just that I really struggled to connect with both the story line as it unfolded and then with the characters as they developed.
Initially, I did like Liberty. She was strong, determined and even feisty. She wasn't going to let the events of her past rule her future. Great right? When she met Brett, I thought "This looks promising and he's a hottie" Then she met "Shayne." And I thought "Uh Oh" but not in a bad way. But from the moment the following words left her mouth, everything just went south for me:
I never allowed myself to get close enough to anyone because honestly, what was the point? I knew they'd eventually leave me and just the thought of having to say goodbye tore me up inside.
With everyone she met, she seemed to contradict herself because she got really close to Brett and Maddie very quickly and then when her path crossed with Shayne it was virtually inta love. She seemed to pour her heart out to anyone that would listen including Shayne's father who she had literally just met. I'm not sure that's the kind of information you would share with your new boyfriend's father.(remember this is only my opinion).
I really liked Brett's character initially and I liked that he was there in a brotherly capacity. Just the kind of support Liberty needed. Then he just turned weird and a little desperate. Brotherly love went out of the window and he wanted so much more. Why oh why did she agree to go on a date with him????? I just felt that she couldn't be so naive that she didn't realise why he was behaving the way he was. He'd made it pretty obvious.
In terms of the sex, there's nothing wrong with being a virgin, absolutely nothing but never having had an orgasm??? Never??? Not even giving herself one? For someone so innocent, she seemed to catch up with the whole sex thing pretty quickly but again, it just didn't seem natural. The dialogue didn't flow naturally and there were so many eye rolling moments where I just kept thinking "really????"
I loved Shayne's character. It was hot as hell, had tattoo's (just how I like them) and he was an old romantic (big sigh). His character wasn't how I thought he would be. He was kind, caring, protective and his southern lingo melted me! He definitely wasn't the player everyone made him out to be (yes in his younger days but not now). I did guess the secret, to me it was kinda obvious but I was hoping there might be something more. I was hoping for maybe a connection to Liberty's past, especially since her brother had killed himself four years ago and Shayne's life had also changed around the same time. Unfortunately that was just wishful thinking on my part.
I know it takes a lot for an author to write a book and I truly take my hat off to each and everyone of them because it takes guts. A lot of people have loved this book but it just wasn't for me. I did finish it because I wanted to give to see if my feelings towards to story or the characters would change. Unfortunately they didn't. I have rated it 2.5 Stars. There were some good bits but there were also some eye rolling, cringe worthy moments too.
September 3, 2013
Okay, positives first: the book was well written. The author definitely has very good mechanics. And I LOVED Shayne. I wished he'd been a little rougher around the edges to capture his bad boy image a little more, but I still adored his character. And the sex scenes were pretty erotic. It was definitely enjoyable to read from that aspect.
The negatives: I hated Liberty. She seemed daft and snobby. It was like when you see a really hot guy who's hung up on a really witchy girl. You just want to shake some sense into him. I wanted to do that with Shayne. Because she was so unlikable to me, I didn't see what Shayne was attracted to, and therefore couldn't get into their relationship.
Also, I felt that the central conflict of the book was overly dramatic. Maddie's reaction to the conflict is totally ridiculous. This makes Liberty's response to it way over the top. There are also other places where the characters completely overreact. Poor Shayne- you can do better!
The dialogue is sappy and unrealistic in many parts. That's a HUGE pet peeve of mine and I nearly stopped reading this book about 30% in for this reason. But I stuck it out and the dialogue did improve.
So, I give this book two stars- one because I was able to finish it, and a second because of Shayne.
The negatives: I hated Liberty. She seemed daft and snobby. It was like when you see a really hot guy who's hung up on a really witchy girl. You just want to shake some sense into him. I wanted to do that with Shayne. Because she was so unlikable to me, I didn't see what Shayne was attracted to, and therefore couldn't get into their relationship.
Also, I felt that the central conflict of the book was overly dramatic. Maddie's reaction to the conflict is totally ridiculous. This makes Liberty's response to it way over the top. There are also other places where the characters completely overreact. Poor Shayne- you can do better!
The dialogue is sappy and unrealistic in many parts. That's a HUGE pet peeve of mine and I nearly stopped reading this book about 30% in for this reason. But I stuck it out and the dialogue did improve.
So, I give this book two stars- one because I was able to finish it, and a second because of Shayne.
December 7, 2014
1.5 stars
A truly horrible book. I usually don't write crappy reviews but this book has so many amazing reviews [for christ's sake the average is nearly 4 stars!] and I just had to warn you all.
A) The speed; I get that in books, many things are sped up but this, this takes speed to a new level, Liberty comes to a new town, in less than a week [I have a feeling that it was 2 days, but hey I can't really remember so I'm not going to present it as the truth] the guy and girl she meets on the first day are referred to as "like family" and "people she could not imagine her life without" ... the whole thing was so rushed... like seriously the author could've said that a month or two passed, yadda yadda yadda, she didn't have to write them out, but she could've included them because this rushed... thing that she wrote was horrid.
B) The characters were unrealistic, everything was waaay over the top;
>no one could be a happy person -- they had to be the-squirrel-from-Over-the-Hedge-on-coffee-and-crack happy
>no one could be over protective and unhealthily jealous, no they had to be completely bipolar and ready for a loony house
Also, Liberty was so self-centered that I'm surprised that the sun didn't start revolving around her.
C) The author's closed mindedness; All through the book we kept on hearing about Lib's dead brother, the kid killed himself and the author kept on calling him selfish, cowardly, weak and other words of the like I'm sorry but that's completely not how it is, I'm not saying that suicide is ok, but calling someone weak for killing themselves is not right either because you have no idea what that person was living with, what was going on in their head and what they had to live with I understand that this was just a character in a book but what the author wrote was her actual opinion on such matters and that's what she's presenting readers with, which is complete bull.
D) The plot as in there was none. From the first minute you could tell what was going to happen and it was all shit.
E) The "relationships" Liberty supposedly loves Shayne but SHE DOESN'T TRUST HIM AT ALL AND WHEN HE TRIES TO EXPLAIN SOMETHING TO HER SHE DOESN'T GIVE A F BECAUSE SHE'S CO SELF-CENTERED AND SHE DOESN'T ACTUALLY LOVE HIM AND THE WHILE THING MAKES NO SENSE.
F) The only reason this book is getting 1.5 stars is because I'm soft-hearted and at least the conversations weren't stiff, that's the only thing this book has going for it.
A truly horrible book. I usually don't write crappy reviews but this book has so many amazing reviews [for christ's sake the average is nearly 4 stars!] and I just had to warn you all.
A) The speed; I get that in books, many things are sped up but this, this takes speed to a new level, Liberty comes to a new town, in less than a week [I have a feeling that it was 2 days, but hey I can't really remember so I'm not going to present it as the truth] the guy and girl she meets on the first day are referred to as "like family" and "people she could not imagine her life without" ... the whole thing was so rushed... like seriously the author could've said that a month or two passed, yadda yadda yadda, she didn't have to write them out, but she could've included them because this rushed... thing that she wrote was horrid.
B) The characters were unrealistic, everything was waaay over the top;
>no one could be a happy person -- they had to be the-squirrel-from-Over-the-Hedge-on-coffee-and-crack happy
>no one could be over protective and unhealthily jealous, no they had to be completely bipolar and ready for a loony house
Also, Liberty was so self-centered that I'm surprised that the sun didn't start revolving around her.
C) The author's closed mindedness; All through the book we kept on hearing about Lib's dead brother, the kid killed himself and the author kept on calling him selfish, cowardly, weak and other words of the like I'm sorry but that's completely not how it is, I'm not saying that suicide is ok, but calling someone weak for killing themselves is not right either because you have no idea what that person was living with, what was going on in their head and what they had to live with I understand that this was just a character in a book but what the author wrote was her actual opinion on such matters and that's what she's presenting readers with, which is complete bull.
D) The plot as in there was none. From the first minute you could tell what was going to happen and it was all shit.
E) The "relationships" Liberty supposedly loves Shayne but SHE DOESN'T TRUST HIM AT ALL AND WHEN HE TRIES TO EXPLAIN SOMETHING TO HER SHE DOESN'T GIVE A F BECAUSE SHE'S CO SELF-CENTERED AND SHE DOESN'T ACTUALLY LOVE HIM AND THE WHILE THING MAKES NO SENSE.
F) The only reason this book is getting 1.5 stars is because I'm soft-hearted and at least the conversations weren't stiff, that's the only thing this book has going for it.
September 25, 2013
I had a hard time getting into this story. It was only really when things started to heat up with Shayne, that I really started to enjoy it. However, I still didn't connect with most of the characters.
I've been reading many NA Contemporary Romances of late, and I usually really enjoy the somewhat exaggerated drama that comes with them, but at times it felt like this book was trying too hard, in a too obvious way. What do I mean by this? Well, the Maddie situation. I saw it coming a mile away, and it was really just a case of when, not if. It was too coincidental that Maddie never once got to meet or even see Shayne; she knew Liberty's mystery man was a local, but she never asked what his name was or anything of that sort, because obviously his identity would go up in smoke with him having such a bad rep and everything; and then, at the most opportune times, she interrupted Liberty just as she's about to say his name. Yeah, those weren't tiny little hints that something major was bound to happen, they were huge, neon warning signs.
Other than being the catalyst to the bomb that threatened to destroy Liberty and Shayne, Maddie had no other role in this book. Don't get me wrong. I loved her. She was fun and exciting. I just wish there had been more to her. I know every girl needs a great girlfriend to pour their heart out to but it seemed that that was more Brett's job than Maddie's. I am excited to see what lies in store for her in the second book in this series though, as I believe it is all about her.
Speaking of Brett, he was a little over-bearing and creepy at times. I loved that he was there for Liberty, and he laid his heart on the line for her on more than one occasion. I was just glad that he was man enough to accept defeat without becoming a total tool.
Liberty and Shayne were a fun couple. Liberty was a little flakey at times but I kind of understand why she acted that way. Shayne on the other hand was charming and sweet, nothing at all like bad ass player he was earlier in life. It seemed he could do, and say, nothing wrong. He swept me off my feet, just as he did Liberty, and even though some of his actions were a bit cliche, it was okay, because honestly, I love a man who is willing to do everything he can to impress his girl. They felt very much like a real couple, with real fears and anxiety.
Even though this book was quite predictable and the characters didn't have much depth, I was still entertained and had a fun time reading their story.
I've been reading many NA Contemporary Romances of late, and I usually really enjoy the somewhat exaggerated drama that comes with them, but at times it felt like this book was trying too hard, in a too obvious way. What do I mean by this? Well, the Maddie situation. I saw it coming a mile away, and it was really just a case of when, not if. It was too coincidental that Maddie never once got to meet or even see Shayne; she knew Liberty's mystery man was a local, but she never asked what his name was or anything of that sort, because obviously his identity would go up in smoke with him having such a bad rep and everything; and then, at the most opportune times, she interrupted Liberty just as she's about to say his name. Yeah, those weren't tiny little hints that something major was bound to happen, they were huge, neon warning signs.
Other than being the catalyst to the bomb that threatened to destroy Liberty and Shayne, Maddie had no other role in this book. Don't get me wrong. I loved her. She was fun and exciting. I just wish there had been more to her. I know every girl needs a great girlfriend to pour their heart out to but it seemed that that was more Brett's job than Maddie's. I am excited to see what lies in store for her in the second book in this series though, as I believe it is all about her.
Speaking of Brett, he was a little over-bearing and creepy at times. I loved that he was there for Liberty, and he laid his heart on the line for her on more than one occasion. I was just glad that he was man enough to accept defeat without becoming a total tool.
Liberty and Shayne were a fun couple. Liberty was a little flakey at times but I kind of understand why she acted that way. Shayne on the other hand was charming and sweet, nothing at all like bad ass player he was earlier in life. It seemed he could do, and say, nothing wrong. He swept me off my feet, just as he did Liberty, and even though some of his actions were a bit cliche, it was okay, because honestly, I love a man who is willing to do everything he can to impress his girl. They felt very much like a real couple, with real fears and anxiety.
Even though this book was quite predictable and the characters didn't have much depth, I was still entertained and had a fun time reading their story.
August 20, 2013
There are two hotties I get to talk about in this bookie, the first Brett, and it was a funny way how he and Liberty meet, actually it was funny how her and Shayne met to but anyway, "that's gonna leave a nasty shiner there, darlin'. We've got a cooler over there in the truck. Let's get some ice on it before it gets any worse." He's a sweet boy, "nah, you look gorgeous, darlin'. Just as good, if not better than before you got hit." He's flirty, "how could I miss you? Not only was I distracted by this sexy, little thing lying out there in the sand, who I'm now realizing isn't from around here, you're also the only girl out here on the beach." BUT he's not the cocky Shayne I fell in love with, "oh, I wasn't complaining, sweetheart. I'm just not used to having girls throw themselves at me like that. Usually I make them work a little harder before they can get a piece of me." BUT then there was a side of Brett that I loved as well, "don't. Just don't, okay? I know you didn't really want to go on this date with me. I just kept trying to convince myself that maybe, just maybe, you felt something for me. I guess I was wrong." BUT then there was the fact Shayne had tattoos and everyone knows how much I love tattoos, "he had more tattoos spread across his chest and back that I hadn't seen yet." And he's cocky, "trust me, sweetheart, I could tell. You weren't exactly subtle when you screamed my name, either." And he wants to take care of his girl, actually Brett wants to take care of Liberty as well, but the thing is I was totally vying for Shayne more, "so are the customers busting your balls tonight? 'Cause I won't hesitate coming in there kicking anyone's a** for making my woman upset." I liked this book and I think Liberty make a good decision on who to keep and who to well say bye bye to.
July 17, 2013
So I had the great opportunity to beta-read for Ms. Mayer. Let me tell you I loved this book. Mayer hooked me from the start and I read it in 2 days. (Would've read it in a full day had my husband not stopped me).
Relinquishing Liberty is an emotional roller coaster that’ll make you hot, make you laugh and cry all at the same time. There’s delicious sex scenes, steamy boys and romanticism that’ll make your heart swoon.
-Emma Rider author of the Tied Series
Relinquishing Liberty is an emotional roller coaster that’ll make you hot, make you laugh and cry all at the same time. There’s delicious sex scenes, steamy boys and romanticism that’ll make your heart swoon.
-Emma Rider author of the Tied Series
February 10, 2014
This book was so emotional I loved it I hated Brett can't stand him I loved Shane the way he said sweetheart damn!
September 22, 2013
WOW.... Few stories grasp me tight enough to keep me awake all night, and willing to be sleep deprived the next day. I rarely read a book that leaves me spinning, reeling, with an absolute euphoric high, wanting more of the characters, more of SHAYNE, but Maureen Mayer has fully executed that emotion for me,with Relinquishing Liberty. I will try not to go too far into the story line, as I do not want to reveal any spoilers. This book is a must read, I just wish there was MORE MORE MORE of Shayne and Liberty!
Shayne is your sexy southern gentleman, with a scarred past that he is trying to move past. OMG, when he says Sweetheart, I can imagine his sexy southern drawl, and I literally tremble. What I love about Shayne, is he is a REAL man, not some swanky millionaire hot shot. But a real man,with true emotions,who works hard for everything he has in his life. He is sorta the loner, but once Liberty falls into him, he has met the broken piece of his puzzle. This man has true raw emotion for her, and by the end of the book, my heart felt as if it had been ripped from my chest. Ahhhh swooooooooon over Shayne, he is just so sexy, so sweet, so bad....mmmmmm!!!!!
Liberty is a spicy little yankee. Just as you'd expect a true New Yorker, she can handle herself just fine. She is cocky, but sweet. She falls hard for Shayne, and gives him her heart. She is young, and has a stupid moment, but when her eyes are opened, and reality sinks in, she realizes home is where her heart is...home with Shayne.
I truly loved all of the characters in this story, I even felt bad for Brett at one point, but was glad when he stepped back and let Liberty have the happiness she deserved.
This book was well written, with little to no errors. Maureen has a true knack for writing, and her characters come to life in Relinquishing Liberty. There are only a few books that have affected me so deeply,and those books stay close to my heart....RL has a new spot in my heart. Thank you Maureen for a fantastic story!!!!
Shayne is your sexy southern gentleman, with a scarred past that he is trying to move past. OMG, when he says Sweetheart, I can imagine his sexy southern drawl, and I literally tremble. What I love about Shayne, is he is a REAL man, not some swanky millionaire hot shot. But a real man,with true emotions,who works hard for everything he has in his life. He is sorta the loner, but once Liberty falls into him, he has met the broken piece of his puzzle. This man has true raw emotion for her, and by the end of the book, my heart felt as if it had been ripped from my chest. Ahhhh swooooooooon over Shayne, he is just so sexy, so sweet, so bad....mmmmmm!!!!!
Liberty is a spicy little yankee. Just as you'd expect a true New Yorker, she can handle herself just fine. She is cocky, but sweet. She falls hard for Shayne, and gives him her heart. She is young, and has a stupid moment, but when her eyes are opened, and reality sinks in, she realizes home is where her heart is...home with Shayne.
I truly loved all of the characters in this story, I even felt bad for Brett at one point, but was glad when he stepped back and let Liberty have the happiness she deserved.
This book was well written, with little to no errors. Maureen has a true knack for writing, and her characters come to life in Relinquishing Liberty. There are only a few books that have affected me so deeply,and those books stay close to my heart....RL has a new spot in my heart. Thank you Maureen for a fantastic story!!!!
May 13, 2014
I am a very judgmental reader when it comes to books because of the authors I have fallen in love with. Well I now need to add another to my list Maureen Mayer you are so talented. There is nothing more that I love than a book that pulls me in and I can't stop reading till it's done; which this one did it.
Really enjoyed reading this book it was a quick read for me. First off I loved that she was from buffalo because that's my hometown.
I can relate to Liberty on how you can want to just run away from everything and start new. Make a family of your choosing and be happy again. I could see parts of myself in this charcter which drew me into this book.
Any interaction with Liberty and Shane I couldn't take me eyes from the page. Loving someone so deep and having that passion for them is such a true and strong feeling. It is brought to words perfectly.
Final thing I loved was the music incorporated through out the book. I love songs and listen to one and knowing that it was ment for different parts makes me enjoy this so much more. The Playlist at the end was soo cool.
So just plain and simple...READ THIS NOW! If you haven't already.
I am looking forward to reading the next two books to see what happens to these charcters.
Really enjoyed reading this book it was a quick read for me. First off I loved that she was from buffalo because that's my hometown.
I can relate to Liberty on how you can want to just run away from everything and start new. Make a family of your choosing and be happy again. I could see parts of myself in this charcter which drew me into this book.
Any interaction with Liberty and Shane I couldn't take me eyes from the page. Loving someone so deep and having that passion for them is such a true and strong feeling. It is brought to words perfectly.
Final thing I loved was the music incorporated through out the book. I love songs and listen to one and knowing that it was ment for different parts makes me enjoy this so much more. The Playlist at the end was soo cool.
So just plain and simple...READ THIS NOW! If you haven't already.
I am looking forward to reading the next two books to see what happens to these charcters.
September 15, 2013
Captivating- that is the perfect way to really define this book!
Liberty is such a softy. She is extremely caring, even to the point she lets others walk all over her. When she runs away from her heartbreaking past she finds herself in the middle of two guys that both want her affection.
Brett is hot! When he throws a football that connects to Liberty's face, he instantly begins to fall in love with her. Can Liberty return the same feelings?
Enters Shayne; Well known for being a manwhore all through high school. He swears that he has put those days behind him. Is it true, or does he really just know what to say to a girl?
Will Liberty allow her past to define her future? Will one of these guys be everything Liberty needs and more? Or will both guys make it or break it for her?
Relinquishing Liberty is written from Liberty's point of view. The author does such an amazing job portraying the characters. Liberty is such an emotional person and every emotion is properly displayed. Even Shayne and Brett's emotions are so real. I could definitely have done without Shayne saying 'Sweatheart' so much, but even that couldn't break this absolutely amazing book!
Liberty is such a softy. She is extremely caring, even to the point she lets others walk all over her. When she runs away from her heartbreaking past she finds herself in the middle of two guys that both want her affection.
Brett is hot! When he throws a football that connects to Liberty's face, he instantly begins to fall in love with her. Can Liberty return the same feelings?
Enters Shayne; Well known for being a manwhore all through high school. He swears that he has put those days behind him. Is it true, or does he really just know what to say to a girl?
Will Liberty allow her past to define her future? Will one of these guys be everything Liberty needs and more? Or will both guys make it or break it for her?
Relinquishing Liberty is written from Liberty's point of view. The author does such an amazing job portraying the characters. Liberty is such an emotional person and every emotion is properly displayed. Even Shayne and Brett's emotions are so real. I could definitely have done without Shayne saying 'Sweatheart' so much, but even that couldn't break this absolutely amazing book!
September 20, 2013
Relinquishing Liberty is an emotional rollercoaster of a book. I was hooked from the very beginning and could not put it down. I liked both Liberty and Shayne's characters, I could relate to them all.
Sadness, grief, happiness, romance, joy it was all in there with some steamy sex as well.
I really enjoyed it and thought it was a great debut novel. I look forward to reading more from Maureen Mayer in the future.
Sadness, grief, happiness, romance, joy it was all in there with some steamy sex as well.
I really enjoyed it and thought it was a great debut novel. I look forward to reading more from Maureen Mayer in the future.
September 19, 2015
3.5 Stars
It was really fun at the beginning but after the middle of the book Liberty started to kinda annoy me. Also the story was a little bit slow
It was really fun at the beginning but after the middle of the book Liberty started to kinda annoy me. Also the story was a little bit slow
September 17, 2013
4 Oh-Shit-I-Knew-That-Would-Happen Stars!
Liberty Davis has ran away from the only life she knew she needs to be away from her past, away from her family so she travels to a new place and meets new people.
But will this new place bring a whole new drama, a whole new pain?
She has left her broken family and is trying to pick up all the broken pieces and move forward.Nothing has been the same for her since her brother who she adored,who she thought of as her best friend took his own life.No one knows why he did it but when Liberty found his body Liberty's world crumbles. Her parents begin leaning on her and she has to take care of them..Nobody was dealing with the fact that her brother had left them. She had to get away and find a chance to start over.
When she moves away she never would have thought that she would meet not one but two guys who want her, who care about her! Okay I hate love triangles but this this was cool..there wasn't cheating and stupid stuff about like the woman jumping from one guy to another and back again. I did feel like she led Brett on but he is more of a brother and Shane is just too perfect for her.
Shane is a hot, tattooed, amazing guy who knows the pain of losing a loved one. He used to be a man-whore didn't ever do relationships but he is a changed man now and wants to make it work with Liberty.
Funny, loving, caring, cocky and bloody hot..a bad boy turned good, what more do you want?
Meeting Brett gets Liberty a job and a place to live in..this is when she meets Maddie , Brett's sister loud and talkative with secrets of her own. So what is it that connects them all, a secret that will tear them up..What will happen when secrets are revealed and the past and present collide.
I really enjoyed this book I was hooked from the start and didn't put it down until I finished but all the way through it I was like ohh shit I know whats going to happen..oh god please dont happen ahhhh.At the start I was like Awww Brett you are perfect and think uhmm Shane who? You cant possibly out do Brett I mean C'mon!..Next thing I know I love Shane and Brett meh he has been pushed aside haha He gets on my nerves later on in the book, Brett is a lovely guy and everything but just not the guy for Liberty.
This was a quick,fast paced, heart-breaking story with a twist that can ruin it all..
*ARC provided by the author for an honest review*
Check out my blog for more reviews!
http://zakirrahsbookblog.blogspot.co.uk/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Zakirr...
Liberty Davis has ran away from the only life she knew she needs to be away from her past, away from her family so she travels to a new place and meets new people.
But will this new place bring a whole new drama, a whole new pain?
She has left her broken family and is trying to pick up all the broken pieces and move forward.Nothing has been the same for her since her brother who she adored,who she thought of as her best friend took his own life.No one knows why he did it but when Liberty found his body Liberty's world crumbles. Her parents begin leaning on her and she has to take care of them..Nobody was dealing with the fact that her brother had left them. She had to get away and find a chance to start over.
When she moves away she never would have thought that she would meet not one but two guys who want her, who care about her! Okay I hate love triangles but this this was cool..there wasn't cheating and stupid stuff about like the woman jumping from one guy to another and back again. I did feel like she led Brett on but he is more of a brother and Shane is just too perfect for her.
Shane is a hot, tattooed, amazing guy who knows the pain of losing a loved one. He used to be a man-whore didn't ever do relationships but he is a changed man now and wants to make it work with Liberty.
Funny, loving, caring, cocky and bloody hot..a bad boy turned good, what more do you want?
Meeting Brett gets Liberty a job and a place to live in..this is when she meets Maddie , Brett's sister loud and talkative with secrets of her own. So what is it that connects them all, a secret that will tear them up..What will happen when secrets are revealed and the past and present collide.
I really enjoyed this book I was hooked from the start and didn't put it down until I finished but all the way through it I was like ohh shit I know whats going to happen..oh god please dont happen ahhhh.At the start I was like Awww Brett you are perfect and think uhmm Shane who? You cant possibly out do Brett I mean C'mon!..Next thing I know I love Shane and Brett meh he has been pushed aside haha He gets on my nerves later on in the book, Brett is a lovely guy and everything but just not the guy for Liberty.
This was a quick,fast paced, heart-breaking story with a twist that can ruin it all..
*ARC provided by the author for an honest review*
Check out my blog for more reviews!
http://zakirrahsbookblog.blogspot.co.uk/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Zakirr...
September 26, 2013
I thoroughly enjoyed this book...Liberty finds herself in Savannah, Ga after escaping her life of dealing with the suicide of her brother 4 years prior and then taking care of both of her parents after they checked out emotionally in their own pain. She was searching for her liberty...her freedom from pain and knew she couldn't find it in her hometown, so she escaped without telling anyone including her parents. She didn't think they'd even notice she was gone.
When she arrives in Savannah, she decides to check out the beach where she meets Brett after he hits her in the face on accident with a football. He's apologetic and very handsome. She runs into him again the next evening when she eats at the restaurant he is a bartender at...he immediately recognizes her and takes his break to chat with her. He helps her get a job there at the restaurant and a finds her a roommate in his younger sister Maddie who also works at the restaurant. Everything is falling into place...then the next morning she literally falls into the lap of Shayne while she's out for a run on the beach. She's lost in her thoughts and closes her eyes for a moment and doesn't see Shayne fishing from the shore and collides into him. She's embarrassed, but feels a jolt of electricity like she's never known...they both feel it. They part ways after she apologizes and he makes sure she's ok...they never swap names or any info. The next night, he eats dinner at the restaurant and she waits on his table...he shamelessly flirts with her and asks her out for a date. Brett immediately tries to steer her away from Shayne by telling her about his womanizing ways and his past history of treating girls, but Brett has his own eyes set on Liberty...and not in the friendship sense that she sees Brett. And this is where things start to get interesting...the story is pretty predictable, but a really good one nonetheless. Shayne was a manwhore and had never been in love and had his own pain darling with losing his mother at 6 years old. Liberty was a virgin and very inexperienced, but Shayne made her feel things that were so foreign to her. He fell hard and fast for Liberty and I loved the fact that he didn't cheat on her or treat her badly. He may have lied by omission, but he was always open and honest with her otherwise...he was as crazy about her as she was him. The sex scenes between the two were HOT HOT HOT...wow.
I would say this is a standalone book with a HEA unless Maddie causes some problems for the two in the next book...Maddie's story... and I bet it's gonna be some story! I hope Brett has his own book too...I loved him and want him to have his own HEA.
When she arrives in Savannah, she decides to check out the beach where she meets Brett after he hits her in the face on accident with a football. He's apologetic and very handsome. She runs into him again the next evening when she eats at the restaurant he is a bartender at...he immediately recognizes her and takes his break to chat with her. He helps her get a job there at the restaurant and a finds her a roommate in his younger sister Maddie who also works at the restaurant. Everything is falling into place...then the next morning she literally falls into the lap of Shayne while she's out for a run on the beach. She's lost in her thoughts and closes her eyes for a moment and doesn't see Shayne fishing from the shore and collides into him. She's embarrassed, but feels a jolt of electricity like she's never known...they both feel it. They part ways after she apologizes and he makes sure she's ok...they never swap names or any info. The next night, he eats dinner at the restaurant and she waits on his table...he shamelessly flirts with her and asks her out for a date. Brett immediately tries to steer her away from Shayne by telling her about his womanizing ways and his past history of treating girls, but Brett has his own eyes set on Liberty...and not in the friendship sense that she sees Brett. And this is where things start to get interesting...the story is pretty predictable, but a really good one nonetheless. Shayne was a manwhore and had never been in love and had his own pain darling with losing his mother at 6 years old. Liberty was a virgin and very inexperienced, but Shayne made her feel things that were so foreign to her. He fell hard and fast for Liberty and I loved the fact that he didn't cheat on her or treat her badly. He may have lied by omission, but he was always open and honest with her otherwise...he was as crazy about her as she was him. The sex scenes between the two were HOT HOT HOT...wow.
I would say this is a standalone book with a HEA unless Maddie causes some problems for the two in the next book...Maddie's story... and I bet it's gonna be some story! I hope Brett has his own book too...I loved him and want him to have his own HEA.
November 13, 2014
By the time we meet Liberty, you would think from what she has been through that surely her life must get incredibly better. She found her brother's body hanging in the garage after he committed suicide (he was her only sibling, AJ). She had to drop out of college after only one year to help take care of her grieving parents. Finally she broke and ran from her only home. She is living out of hotels. She needs a job.
We meet her as she hits Savannah. Liberty hasn't quite figured out where she's going yet but she decides to give Savannah a chance after a football collides with her face and with fate that leads to so much more.
The one responsible for the football fiasco, Brett helps her find a job where he bartends and by some twist of fate, his sister Maddie just so happens to be looking for a roommate! Now she has friends, a job, and a place to lay her head at night. Now all she needs is a love life.
Despite Brett's obvious (to everyone but Liberty) attempts to win her heart, she runs smack dab into the arms of another....literally. She runs into a tattooed emerald eyed hottie on the beach and that changes everything. Shayne is his name.
You are hopeful for her but with Shayne's reputation of being a player, you can't help but to worry that she is going to get her heart broken. You want the best for her in her new life in Savannah.
As Liberty grows closer to her new friends and in her new life, we learn that Maddie has a heart breaking story as well. She had a one night stand losing her virginity and ended up getting pregnant. Making a very difficult decision, she terminated the pregnancy. Maddie keeps it a secret to who the fling was with.
Shayne and Liberty continue to grow passionately and close in their relationship. Being a virgin, Shayne wants to take his time with Liberty and help prove his reputation is a part of his past. But the fire is there and eventually Liberty has one amazing and steamy first time!
I don't want to give too much more away, but this is a book worth reading. Maddie's secret comes to light. Shayne and Liberty hit a big road bump in their relationship. Brett continues to be a beacon of light for Liberty. And the past does come back around to our sweet Liberty. She will have to face her demons that she ran from. Shayne even has some demons in his own past that bites him in the ass a few times. The big shocker in this book had me floored. It was quick a shock how everything came together!
Again, GREAT read! I look forward to Maureen Mayer's next book in the Second Chances series! Her hot and steamy scenes leave you breathless! Extra points for having a great plot to go with all the hotness!
We meet her as she hits Savannah. Liberty hasn't quite figured out where she's going yet but she decides to give Savannah a chance after a football collides with her face and with fate that leads to so much more.
The one responsible for the football fiasco, Brett helps her find a job where he bartends and by some twist of fate, his sister Maddie just so happens to be looking for a roommate! Now she has friends, a job, and a place to lay her head at night. Now all she needs is a love life.
Despite Brett's obvious (to everyone but Liberty) attempts to win her heart, she runs smack dab into the arms of another....literally. She runs into a tattooed emerald eyed hottie on the beach and that changes everything. Shayne is his name.
You are hopeful for her but with Shayne's reputation of being a player, you can't help but to worry that she is going to get her heart broken. You want the best for her in her new life in Savannah.
As Liberty grows closer to her new friends and in her new life, we learn that Maddie has a heart breaking story as well. She had a one night stand losing her virginity and ended up getting pregnant. Making a very difficult decision, she terminated the pregnancy. Maddie keeps it a secret to who the fling was with.
Shayne and Liberty continue to grow passionately and close in their relationship. Being a virgin, Shayne wants to take his time with Liberty and help prove his reputation is a part of his past. But the fire is there and eventually Liberty has one amazing and steamy first time!
I don't want to give too much more away, but this is a book worth reading. Maddie's secret comes to light. Shayne and Liberty hit a big road bump in their relationship. Brett continues to be a beacon of light for Liberty. And the past does come back around to our sweet Liberty. She will have to face her demons that she ran from. Shayne even has some demons in his own past that bites him in the ass a few times. The big shocker in this book had me floored. It was quick a shock how everything came together!
Again, GREAT read! I look forward to Maureen Mayer's next book in the Second Chances series! Her hot and steamy scenes leave you breathless! Extra points for having a great plot to go with all the hotness!
September 14, 2013
Holy Crap! What a freaking emotional roller-coaster that you just do not want to get off! All of the hype for this book before it was released was definitely worth it. I COULD NOT PUT THIS DOWN! Maureen Mayer did such an amazing job on her debut novel, and was instantly added to my favorite books of 2013 list!
We start out meeting Liberty and then Brett, due to an unfortunate situation with a football). At first I really liked Brett, until Shayne came into the picture, I mean who does not love a “bad guy” with tattoos that is GORGEOUS!? Each of the characters in this story pull at your heart strings, you love them, you hate them, you want to slap them in the face!
Now lets talk about Shayne… OMG!! Once I liked him, I LOVED HIM! He moved up to the top of my list of book boyfriends! I almost instantly fell in love with him. The things he does, how he treats Liberty, everything about him is just swoonworthy, and I LOVED IT! When we got a sneak peak into his head, my heart broke with him, I had tears, and usually I am not the one to take a guys side in a story!
This story was beautifully written, and flowed so smooth! The reader is able to piece together the story before the characters catch on, but it doesn’t make some of the reveals any less dramatic, and heart wrenching. This book had me on the edge, crying, laughing, swooning, & biting my nails! I literally experienced every emotion reading this story!
The characters were so well written, and I grew so attached to them, when the story ended, I was sad to let them go! Maddie, Shayne, Liberty, Brett, LOVED THEM ALL (even if sometimes I wanted to strangle them!)!!!! Liberty’s character is so strong, and some may find her whiny, but with what she has gone through, you can definitely understand her hesitation with some of the situations.
We experience the trials of moving on from a tragic past, relocation, finding your “family outside your family”, finding out who you are, and that gut wrenching, all consuming, no one will ever compare to you love in this book! Like I said, non-stop, roller-coaster ride of emotions!
Everyone should pick this book up! You would like Maureen Mayer has been writing books for years, not that this is her debut! Its a MUST READ and I cannot wait for the second book to come out (Maddie’s story!).
www.readingpastmybedtime.net
We start out meeting Liberty and then Brett, due to an unfortunate situation with a football). At first I really liked Brett, until Shayne came into the picture, I mean who does not love a “bad guy” with tattoos that is GORGEOUS!? Each of the characters in this story pull at your heart strings, you love them, you hate them, you want to slap them in the face!
Now lets talk about Shayne… OMG!! Once I liked him, I LOVED HIM! He moved up to the top of my list of book boyfriends! I almost instantly fell in love with him. The things he does, how he treats Liberty, everything about him is just swoonworthy, and I LOVED IT! When we got a sneak peak into his head, my heart broke with him, I had tears, and usually I am not the one to take a guys side in a story!
This story was beautifully written, and flowed so smooth! The reader is able to piece together the story before the characters catch on, but it doesn’t make some of the reveals any less dramatic, and heart wrenching. This book had me on the edge, crying, laughing, swooning, & biting my nails! I literally experienced every emotion reading this story!
The characters were so well written, and I grew so attached to them, when the story ended, I was sad to let them go! Maddie, Shayne, Liberty, Brett, LOVED THEM ALL (even if sometimes I wanted to strangle them!)!!!! Liberty’s character is so strong, and some may find her whiny, but with what she has gone through, you can definitely understand her hesitation with some of the situations.
We experience the trials of moving on from a tragic past, relocation, finding your “family outside your family”, finding out who you are, and that gut wrenching, all consuming, no one will ever compare to you love in this book! Like I said, non-stop, roller-coaster ride of emotions!
Everyone should pick this book up! You would like Maureen Mayer has been writing books for years, not that this is her debut! Its a MUST READ and I cannot wait for the second book to come out (Maddie’s story!).
www.readingpastmybedtime.net
January 2, 2014
This was probably one of the worst books I have ever read!!! The plot is ridiculous and transparent. The characters are so pathetic and immature. And did anyone proofread this mess? There are so many grammatical errors, horrible punctuation, and many missing or misused words. As if the actual writing wasn't bad enough, these errors made it even more difficult to read.
Plot - So unrealistic and flimsy. You didn't have to finish the book to know what was going to happen. The story went on and on and on with nothing happening.
Characters - Liberty - what a whiny ditz. I did not like her at all. All she did was whine and jump to conclusions. I can't see what either of the male characters saw in her. She was just all about Liberty.
Shane - What is so appealing about him? Nothing that I can see. I think Liberty only liked his tattoos. ("tall dark and tattooed" REALLY???)
Brett - He was pretty pathetic. Overbearing, overprotective, annoying. All Liberty did was lead him on. She loved Shane but she went on a date with Brett knowing how he felt about her?
Maddy - Another pathetic whiner. I really can't think of anything positive to say about her.
The actual mechanics of the book were so amateurish. I would be interested to know the age of the author because if this were a middle-school writing assignment it would probably receive a D. There were more than 130 sentences that began with the word "well". Or the words of course, I mean, oh, so , yeah and hey. The use of adjectives was really way overdone - addictively adorable dimples, his plump luscious lips, heavenly green orbs, his liquor stained breath, his panty dripping smile (yuk). Some of the author's expressions were quite funny - i.e. he gave me a quizzical look on his face, I was face palming myself, his smile was beaming off his face, our intimate exploration, almost threw up in my mouth, amazing glow scintillating off you, etc., etc., etc.
It amazes me that this book received so many 4 and 5 star reviews. It seems as if the reviewers are friends with the author and don't want to offend her with the truth. Or else all of the books they read are this badly written.
I am actually looking forward to Maureen's next book. I can really use some good laughs in my life!!
Plot - So unrealistic and flimsy. You didn't have to finish the book to know what was going to happen. The story went on and on and on with nothing happening.
Characters - Liberty - what a whiny ditz. I did not like her at all. All she did was whine and jump to conclusions. I can't see what either of the male characters saw in her. She was just all about Liberty.
Shane - What is so appealing about him? Nothing that I can see. I think Liberty only liked his tattoos. ("tall dark and tattooed" REALLY???)
Brett - He was pretty pathetic. Overbearing, overprotective, annoying. All Liberty did was lead him on. She loved Shane but she went on a date with Brett knowing how he felt about her?
Maddy - Another pathetic whiner. I really can't think of anything positive to say about her.
The actual mechanics of the book were so amateurish. I would be interested to know the age of the author because if this were a middle-school writing assignment it would probably receive a D. There were more than 130 sentences that began with the word "well". Or the words of course, I mean, oh, so , yeah and hey. The use of adjectives was really way overdone - addictively adorable dimples, his plump luscious lips, heavenly green orbs, his liquor stained breath, his panty dripping smile (yuk). Some of the author's expressions were quite funny - i.e. he gave me a quizzical look on his face, I was face palming myself, his smile was beaming off his face, our intimate exploration, almost threw up in my mouth, amazing glow scintillating off you, etc., etc., etc.
It amazes me that this book received so many 4 and 5 star reviews. It seems as if the reviewers are friends with the author and don't want to offend her with the truth. Or else all of the books they read are this badly written.
I am actually looking forward to Maureen's next book. I can really use some good laughs in my life!!
September 18, 2013
There is so much I can say about Relinquishing Liberty but I can’t without spoiling the story. My heart got ripped out in the first chapter, put back together only to be ripped out again. This book was a roller coaster of emotions, twisting and turning my stomach into a knot. The characters were very well written, so well that I could feel their emotions. When Liberty cried, when she hurt, I cried right along with her, I felt her pain. She became an extension of me. The guys don’t get me started on the guys…hotness overload to say the least. Shayne turned me into a Tabby puddle, and Brett is the sexy knight in shining armor that all women dream of.
I admire Liberty, she grew so much in such a short time, she went from avoiding getting close to anyone to avoid being left behind to letting her walls down and letting people in. She was damaged yet still strong and feisty at the same time. She is stronger than I because at one point in the book I would have turned around, regardless of the pain I was feeling. Yes, I know you have no idea what I am talking about, but I cannot give you more details without ruining it for you.
Maureen, you have gained a fan/friend for life with me. You listened to me talk about the book incessantly, even at one point saying you were going to make me read another book. Well, that is what you get for writing such a great book. I have read reviews where people complain it is too sappy, ummmm hello people, it’s a romance novel. What did you expect blood and guts? Yes, I will admit, parts of it were predictable, but it had a major WTF!!! moment, where I had to think back to see what I missed. I cannot wait for Unforseen Heartbeat to come out, then I can pester you some more.
Favorite quotes:
“I’m not sure it’s the chicken that is making your mouth water, sweetheart”-Shayne
Shayne knew exactly what he was doing, and I had the panty puddles to prove it.
“Once I knew I loved you, everything else fell into place. I knew I had finally found my other half, my better half… my missing puzzle piece.” –Shayne
I admire Liberty, she grew so much in such a short time, she went from avoiding getting close to anyone to avoid being left behind to letting her walls down and letting people in. She was damaged yet still strong and feisty at the same time. She is stronger than I because at one point in the book I would have turned around, regardless of the pain I was feeling. Yes, I know you have no idea what I am talking about, but I cannot give you more details without ruining it for you.
Maureen, you have gained a fan/friend for life with me. You listened to me talk about the book incessantly, even at one point saying you were going to make me read another book. Well, that is what you get for writing such a great book. I have read reviews where people complain it is too sappy, ummmm hello people, it’s a romance novel. What did you expect blood and guts? Yes, I will admit, parts of it were predictable, but it had a major WTF!!! moment, where I had to think back to see what I missed. I cannot wait for Unforseen Heartbeat to come out, then I can pester you some more.
Favorite quotes:
“I’m not sure it’s the chicken that is making your mouth water, sweetheart”-Shayne
Shayne knew exactly what he was doing, and I had the panty puddles to prove it.
“Once I knew I loved you, everything else fell into place. I knew I had finally found my other half, my better half… my missing puzzle piece.” –Shayne
September 12, 2013
This was such a great book! I had a hard time putting it down for non-important things like food and sleep. I mean, who needs those when Shayne and Liberty are on your tablet?!?! The characters, the plot, the steamy scenes all came together for one fantastic book. There was plenty of funny moments too which is always a plus for me.
I just loved Liberty and Shayne. They had me cracking up one moment and then they'd go and do something hot and steamy. It was great. They were so well written that they felt like real people to me and I was immediately drawn into their story. Even though Liberty is lost and broken, she is still strong and does what she needs to do for herself yet she's very conscientious of others feels and is a great friend. Shayne is one hot man! I mean, what can you expect when he works on a deep sea fishing charter every day. Not only does he have a fantastic tan, he has killer muscles, and some seriously sexy tattoos! Despite his past mistakes, its immediately obvious that he has serious feeling for Liberty and I loved how he went out of his way to show her.
Brett and Madison were great secondary characters. They were just as well written as Liberty and Shayne. They were given enough of a spotlight to add to Liberty and Shayne's story and to set them up for their own books. I wanted to throttle Brett a few times but it was obvious that he really did care for Liberty. I can't wait to read about them in future books from the series.
The book was very well written and I enjoyed it immensely. The scenes transitioned well and descriptions of people and surroundings were given in enough detail to give the mind some vision without going overboard. I felt like it flowed very nicely and I look forward to ready future books from Maureen Mayer. Excellent way to kick off a new series. I gladly give it 5 out of 5 stars!
I just loved Liberty and Shayne. They had me cracking up one moment and then they'd go and do something hot and steamy. It was great. They were so well written that they felt like real people to me and I was immediately drawn into their story. Even though Liberty is lost and broken, she is still strong and does what she needs to do for herself yet she's very conscientious of others feels and is a great friend. Shayne is one hot man! I mean, what can you expect when he works on a deep sea fishing charter every day. Not only does he have a fantastic tan, he has killer muscles, and some seriously sexy tattoos! Despite his past mistakes, its immediately obvious that he has serious feeling for Liberty and I loved how he went out of his way to show her.
Brett and Madison were great secondary characters. They were just as well written as Liberty and Shayne. They were given enough of a spotlight to add to Liberty and Shayne's story and to set them up for their own books. I wanted to throttle Brett a few times but it was obvious that he really did care for Liberty. I can't wait to read about them in future books from the series.
The book was very well written and I enjoyed it immensely. The scenes transitioned well and descriptions of people and surroundings were given in enough detail to give the mind some vision without going overboard. I felt like it flowed very nicely and I look forward to ready future books from Maureen Mayer. Excellent way to kick off a new series. I gladly give it 5 out of 5 stars!
March 26, 2014
.5 stars
This book is extremely heart-wrenching and sexy at the same time. Liberty constantly has one man on her mind: her dead brother, who committed suicide and she was the one who found him. Liberty's brother was her rock and her hero ; the pain in Liberty's words and thoughts will slice you open. From finding him dead to the funeral, to life afterwards with emotionally absent parents, Liberty does the only thing she could. She ran away to have a fresh start somewhere else, and shut down her heart in the process.
It's almost funny how she meets Brett, a down-to-earth, sweet, and protective guy who instantly takes a liking to Liberty. They develop a quick bond and Liberty decides to stay in the beach town with the sweet guy and his upbeat sister. They quickly become a family of sorts and Liberty finds in Brett a feeling she only had for her adored brother. Then she literally runs into Shayne and everything and everyone else is instantly forgotten.
So why not 5 stars?
It does take on the lightning speed love route, which may turn off some readers, along with some cliches like: he's a reformed player, she's not very experienced, she has a troubled past, he understands perfectly, etc. After a couple of dates, they move in together (yes, you read that right) and of course, there's sex everywhere and very often. I can say that every emotion in this book demands to be felt while reading. The pain , the confusion that can come with moving on past unbearable grief, the doubts of a too-fast relationship, love, passion, and that reckless behavior that comes with all those feelings. Definitely well written, well-developed main characters and enough intrigue to keep you reading the rest of the series.
This book is extremely heart-wrenching and sexy at the same time. Liberty constantly has one man on her mind: her dead brother, who committed suicide and she was the one who found him. Liberty's brother was her rock and her hero ; the pain in Liberty's words and thoughts will slice you open. From finding him dead to the funeral, to life afterwards with emotionally absent parents, Liberty does the only thing she could. She ran away to have a fresh start somewhere else, and shut down her heart in the process.
It's almost funny how she meets Brett, a down-to-earth, sweet, and protective guy who instantly takes a liking to Liberty. They develop a quick bond and Liberty decides to stay in the beach town with the sweet guy and his upbeat sister. They quickly become a family of sorts and Liberty finds in Brett a feeling she only had for her adored brother. Then she literally runs into Shayne and everything and everyone else is instantly forgotten.
So why not 5 stars?
It does take on the lightning speed love route, which may turn off some readers, along with some cliches like: he's a reformed player, she's not very experienced, she has a troubled past, he understands perfectly, etc. After a couple of dates, they move in together (yes, you read that right) and of course, there's sex everywhere and very often. I can say that every emotion in this book demands to be felt while reading. The pain , the confusion that can come with moving on past unbearable grief, the doubts of a too-fast relationship, love, passion, and that reckless behavior that comes with all those feelings. Definitely well written, well-developed main characters and enough intrigue to keep you reading the rest of the series.
March 13, 2014
Relinquishing Liberty is a book about starting over. It has been 4 years since Liberty’s Brother committed suicide and she has finally decided to start fresh in a new place. While passing through Savannah, a chance encounter helps her make up her mind to stay. Making fast friends (and I mean fast) with Brett and his sister Maddie, Liberty quickly becomes roommates with Maddie and gets a job at the same place as the siblings. Liberty’s relationships with Brett and Maddie seemed to develop extremely quickly, going from strangers to referring to them as family in what appears to be matter of days. Another separate chance encounter on the beach lands Liberty in the arms of super sexy green eyed Shayne. A newly reformed man-whore, Shayne has a reputation around town as a lady-killer. This relationship also moves pretty fast, but I did really enjoy them as a couple. It isn’t all hearts and flowers though; there are definite bumps in the road! There were a few times in this book I wanted to reach through the screen ofmy eReader and strangle some people!
I figured out the “big secret” pretty early on in the story so I did find myself waiting for the other shoe to drop for a large portion of the book. Overall this was an enjoyable read that I would recommend to fans of NA and steamy romance in general. This was the first book in the “Second Chances” series (it does have a HEA) and I am looking forward to reading Maddie’s story in the next book.
I figured out the “big secret” pretty early on in the story so I did find myself waiting for the other shoe to drop for a large portion of the book. Overall this was an enjoyable read that I would recommend to fans of NA and steamy romance in general. This was the first book in the “Second Chances” series (it does have a HEA) and I am looking forward to reading Maddie’s story in the next book.
September 20, 2013
I thought this was a great book from the beginning. I liked that you could just fall into the writing and give yourself over to the story unfolding. Maureen's writing is fabulous. Her characters are sexy, sweet, funny, mouthy, fiesty, and can be jerks, just like real people. I think that's what makes this book so relatable. The people are just like everyone else. To me the point of this book was that you have to get the whole story, calm down a little and really listen to what people are trying to tell you. If you don't, you can miss out on so much - and that's a fact.
I've got to say that from the first page, I thought Brett was a sweetheart. Perfect, sweet, down to earth guy. But I'm like Liberty, and that just doesn't cut it for me. I like the bad boy with the tattoos; Shayne. The guy with the troubled past, that haunts him relentlessly. I'm also a firm believer in love at first sight. It happens, and when it does, you shouldn't push it away. Liberty is a lucky girl in that she found people who were willing to help her out and get on her feet. She's doubly lucky that she also found love. Not only the love and friendship of other people, but the man who could possibly be the love of her life. There's no doubt that they love each other, but Shayne's past keeps coming back to bite them both. Thier love will be tested time and again, Liberty just has to keep believing in the love, and leave the past behind. Sometimes it's easier said than done.
I received a copy of this book in return for an honest review.
I've got to say that from the first page, I thought Brett was a sweetheart. Perfect, sweet, down to earth guy. But I'm like Liberty, and that just doesn't cut it for me. I like the bad boy with the tattoos; Shayne. The guy with the troubled past, that haunts him relentlessly. I'm also a firm believer in love at first sight. It happens, and when it does, you shouldn't push it away. Liberty is a lucky girl in that she found people who were willing to help her out and get on her feet. She's doubly lucky that she also found love. Not only the love and friendship of other people, but the man who could possibly be the love of her life. There's no doubt that they love each other, but Shayne's past keeps coming back to bite them both. Thier love will be tested time and again, Liberty just has to keep believing in the love, and leave the past behind. Sometimes it's easier said than done.
I received a copy of this book in return for an honest review.
September 9, 2013
The synopsis drew me to this book. With Liberty losing her beloved Brother to suicide, she couldn't cope with her needy parents and needed to get away.
She started to build a new life for herself and got herself a job and made some new friends. Then along came the gorgeous Shayne who had secrets of his own that he kept hidden. Her new friends tried to warn her against him as he had had a string of women since his school days. He was a ladies man.
The books full title is Relinquishing Liberty, second chances #1. It's a great title for this book which is the story of relationships and several second chances for many of the characters. I enjoyed the fact that the book wasn't entirely predictable, although I worked out quite early on where one part of the story-line was heading.
There were some strong well written characters in book; all with very different hangups and personalities.
One thing that did put me off were the sex scenes between Liberty and Shayne. I thought they were completely unnecessary and didn't add anything to the story. Just tender unexplained love scenes would have been more than sufficient. I'm not averse to sex scenes in books where they are warranted but I just felt they were not necessary in this one, and tended to skip over the pages. This is the only reason I dropped my rating from a 5* to a 4*, as all in all it was a great story.
This book was given to me free of charge in exchange for an honest review.
She started to build a new life for herself and got herself a job and made some new friends. Then along came the gorgeous Shayne who had secrets of his own that he kept hidden. Her new friends tried to warn her against him as he had had a string of women since his school days. He was a ladies man.
The books full title is Relinquishing Liberty, second chances #1. It's a great title for this book which is the story of relationships and several second chances for many of the characters. I enjoyed the fact that the book wasn't entirely predictable, although I worked out quite early on where one part of the story-line was heading.
There were some strong well written characters in book; all with very different hangups and personalities.
One thing that did put me off were the sex scenes between Liberty and Shayne. I thought they were completely unnecessary and didn't add anything to the story. Just tender unexplained love scenes would have been more than sufficient. I'm not averse to sex scenes in books where they are warranted but I just felt they were not necessary in this one, and tended to skip over the pages. This is the only reason I dropped my rating from a 5* to a 4*, as all in all it was a great story.
This book was given to me free of charge in exchange for an honest review.
September 18, 2013
Imagine coming home from a great day at school filled with happiness and then watching as one action can tear your whole life apart within mere seconds ? That is what happened to Liberty when she discovered her brother dead. This part tugged at my heart as I had one of my best childhood friends - a guy too commit suicide the way Liberty's brother did and whilst reading it , all I could imagine was the pain that my friend's brother went through as he was the one to find him. What happens next is Liberty decides in order to move forward with her life and save herself from going under, she must up and leave all that reminded her of her brother AJ. Liberty ends up in Savannah and soon meets brother and sister Brett and Maddie. Maddie and Liberty become good friends and end up roomies. Enter Shayne, Liberty has never felt this strong about anyone before and vice versa and starts to date Shayne but what happens when she is about to move forward with him and she discovers a dark secret about his past involving Maddie ? Can she ever trust him again or will Liberty be too hurt to spend time with him and be with him ? Is this the end of Liberty's second chance at happiness or will there be an opening where Shayne can prove to Liberty that he has really changed and deserves a second chance ?
Relinquishing Liberty reminded me a bit of the movie "Crossroads" with Britney Spears etc.
Relinquishing Liberty reminded me a bit of the movie "Crossroads" with Britney Spears etc.
October 3, 2013
Liberty Davis Has it rough dealing with the aftermath of what her brother did by taking his own life. Feeling broken and alone having to grow up and pretty much be a parent to her mom and dad. who wouldnt want to run off and take back their life? I loved how much her brother meant to her. i enjoyed the characters and this story.
She is strong and determined to live her life the way she wants to. Then there is Shayne Thompson hottie with tattoos who i love so much in this book!!!!! He knows the pain she is going Through as he has lost people he loves. I love the chemistry between them you just fall for shayne all the way around. You may hate him for just few. Every relationship seems to have secrets i kinda figured what this one was in the book and all that went with it but it doesn't make this book any less amazing.
love Maddie but she has some issues and love Brett i loved how over protective he was.
This was an amazing story that i was lucky enough to win the paperback copy of it!
I really got sucked into this book pretty fast i couldn't put it down and i am looking foreword to rereading it and cannot wait for the next book!
but i might have to buy another copy i dont want my awesome signed copy to get ruined :)
She is strong and determined to live her life the way she wants to. Then there is Shayne Thompson hottie with tattoos who i love so much in this book!!!!! He knows the pain she is going Through as he has lost people he loves. I love the chemistry between them you just fall for shayne all the way around. You may hate him for just few. Every relationship seems to have secrets i kinda figured what this one was in the book and all that went with it but it doesn't make this book any less amazing.
love Maddie but she has some issues and love Brett i loved how over protective he was.
This was an amazing story that i was lucky enough to win the paperback copy of it!
I really got sucked into this book pretty fast i couldn't put it down and i am looking foreword to rereading it and cannot wait for the next book!
but i might have to buy another copy i dont want my awesome signed copy to get ruined :)
September 12, 2014
I was gifted the ARC of this book from the author Maureen Mayer. I wanted to read and review it and excited to do so.
I loved her style of writing, and one thing that stood out to me was, her care in the format. I do notice this smallest things I know, but each title used a lovely font to introduce each chapter, it made it stand out to me. I think that is what made the book classy for me. I read a lot of ebooks, and sometime, no most times, authors do not give the care of presentation any thought or much thought, so this stood out to me. Maybe just a little thing to notice, but taught me a lot of this author.
The story was superb. How many of us have lost someone in death and find it hard to get close to people again. I know this has been true for me.
I don't want to write spoilers, its not my style, its the authors job to keep us gripped from page to page and the blurb says more than enough to perk our interest.
You know, the ending wasn't what I was expecting at all, it turned a corner right at the last few pages, so now I can't wait to read book 2.
Liberty was such a good character, feisty when she needed to be and soft in other ways, yes this book was HOT HOT HOT in places but it made it live. Loved it. Highly recommended.
I loved her style of writing, and one thing that stood out to me was, her care in the format. I do notice this smallest things I know, but each title used a lovely font to introduce each chapter, it made it stand out to me. I think that is what made the book classy for me. I read a lot of ebooks, and sometime, no most times, authors do not give the care of presentation any thought or much thought, so this stood out to me. Maybe just a little thing to notice, but taught me a lot of this author.
The story was superb. How many of us have lost someone in death and find it hard to get close to people again. I know this has been true for me.
I don't want to write spoilers, its not my style, its the authors job to keep us gripped from page to page and the blurb says more than enough to perk our interest.
You know, the ending wasn't what I was expecting at all, it turned a corner right at the last few pages, so now I can't wait to read book 2.
Liberty was such a good character, feisty when she needed to be and soft in other ways, yes this book was HOT HOT HOT in places but it made it live. Loved it. Highly recommended.
October 6, 2013
***This book was given to me by the author in exchange for an honest review***
This is a captivating story about self discovery, love and struggles. The author writes the book from Liberty’s POV. She does an amazing job portraying the depth of emotion in this character. Portraying the struggles, emotion and still being able to carry an interesting storyline that captivates the reader. I was immediately sucked into a world where tragedy and love took on a whole new meaning. The author does an awesome job of creating a world and characters you can relate to. I found myself crying, cheering and screaming. My heart melted at each turn of events and I sympathized with the characters.
Liberty a sweet, emotional pushover who is struck by tragedy, decides to run away from her problems. What she didn’t realize is that she would be running straight into a love triangle. Two guys vying for her attention. Brett and Shayne each want the affections of the lovely Liberty. One being a good choice and one being the wrong choice. Each man has their own certain charismatic qualities. Which will Liberty choose? Or will she choose neither? Will she find true love or will her struggles catch up with her?
If you want to know the answers to these questions then I suggest you read the book.
This is a captivating story about self discovery, love and struggles. The author writes the book from Liberty’s POV. She does an amazing job portraying the depth of emotion in this character. Portraying the struggles, emotion and still being able to carry an interesting storyline that captivates the reader. I was immediately sucked into a world where tragedy and love took on a whole new meaning. The author does an awesome job of creating a world and characters you can relate to. I found myself crying, cheering and screaming. My heart melted at each turn of events and I sympathized with the characters.
Liberty a sweet, emotional pushover who is struck by tragedy, decides to run away from her problems. What she didn’t realize is that she would be running straight into a love triangle. Two guys vying for her attention. Brett and Shayne each want the affections of the lovely Liberty. One being a good choice and one being the wrong choice. Each man has their own certain charismatic qualities. Which will Liberty choose? Or will she choose neither? Will she find true love or will her struggles catch up with her?
If you want to know the answers to these questions then I suggest you read the book.
May 15, 2014
I love this book. I couldn't put it down from page one. Liberty and Shayne's story was truly a touching read. I highly recommend this book to everyone.
Liberty Davis is still trying to recover from the loss of her brother at such a young age. Not only was he her bother but her best friend. He took his own life and no one saw it coming. Now four years later Liberty has left home in search of herself and a new life. She loves her parents dearly but has had more then enough picking up their slack. When she arrives in Savannah she didn't expect to find her second Family in Brett and Maddie. They quickly become a huge part of her life and she couldn't be more grateful. Her life was finally starting to look up when she "accidentally" Falls into the arms of Shayne Thompson.
Shayne Thompson is a drop dead sexy beast. He is dealing with his own loss and demons and didn't know he was missing an important part of himself until he had this beautiful woman fall into his arms. Shayne and Liberty form a quick bond and everything seems right until secrets start to come out and threaten to destroy both of their happiness.
Can they get past the heartache and the lies? Will they end up together? Find out in Relinquishing Liberty! YOU WONT REGRET IT
Liberty Davis is still trying to recover from the loss of her brother at such a young age. Not only was he her bother but her best friend. He took his own life and no one saw it coming. Now four years later Liberty has left home in search of herself and a new life. She loves her parents dearly but has had more then enough picking up their slack. When she arrives in Savannah she didn't expect to find her second Family in Brett and Maddie. They quickly become a huge part of her life and she couldn't be more grateful. Her life was finally starting to look up when she "accidentally" Falls into the arms of Shayne Thompson.
Shayne Thompson is a drop dead sexy beast. He is dealing with his own loss and demons and didn't know he was missing an important part of himself until he had this beautiful woman fall into his arms. Shayne and Liberty form a quick bond and everything seems right until secrets start to come out and threaten to destroy both of their happiness.
Can they get past the heartache and the lies? Will they end up together? Find out in Relinquishing Liberty! YOU WONT REGRET IT
August 25, 2013
Review:
I was given this book to read and give an honest review by Ashley’s reading bliss blog. I thought that this book was wonderful. It was well paced and I immediately felt a connection with the characters. Liberty was a strong woman and wasn’t going to let anything get her down. Liberty has a hard time with her family after her brother’s death and she was tired of taking care of her family so she decided to go and find her own way. When she meets Brett, I think maybe he will be the one she falls for but then Liberty runs into Shayne and I’m not sure if she will choose him. I love Brett and his protectiveness of Liberty and his own sister who Liberty becomes close to and moves in with. Then there is Shayne and I thought “oh goody” a bad boy. Those are my favorite. He treated Liberty with love and kindness from the beginning and that made me want him to be the one to end up with Liberty. I won’t spoil the book. But I think that if you love a good romance this book has it all. I would totally recommend this book!!! Thank you Ashley’s reading bliss blog for allowing me to review it for your page! It was an awesome read! 5 out of 5 STARS!!!
I was given this book to read and give an honest review by Ashley’s reading bliss blog. I thought that this book was wonderful. It was well paced and I immediately felt a connection with the characters. Liberty was a strong woman and wasn’t going to let anything get her down. Liberty has a hard time with her family after her brother’s death and she was tired of taking care of her family so she decided to go and find her own way. When she meets Brett, I think maybe he will be the one she falls for but then Liberty runs into Shayne and I’m not sure if she will choose him. I love Brett and his protectiveness of Liberty and his own sister who Liberty becomes close to and moves in with. Then there is Shayne and I thought “oh goody” a bad boy. Those are my favorite. He treated Liberty with love and kindness from the beginning and that made me want him to be the one to end up with Liberty. I won’t spoil the book. But I think that if you love a good romance this book has it all. I would totally recommend this book!!! Thank you Ashley’s reading bliss blog for allowing me to review it for your page! It was an awesome read! 5 out of 5 STARS!!!
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