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Night Sky #1
Texas Redeemed
Ranch owner Valerie Jordan learned the hard way that people carve out their own destiny. She knows firsthand what can come of one night of unchecked attraction and lost inhibitions. And she also knows there’s only one way to handle guarded missionary doctor Peyton Turner: with caution. Thirteen years ago, they went from being friends to lovers to strangers. To save himself and outrun his past, Peyton disappeared. Now the prodigal son of Night Sky, Texas, is home—though he has no intention of staying. But once the revelation that he and Valerie share a troubled teenage daughter sends him on a hunt for answers, there’s no avoiding one another … no ignoring the undeniable desire that draws them together.
Texas Redeemed is a passionately written and emotionally gripping story of lust and risk, love and forgiveness, of confronting the damaging secrets of the past for a chance at redemption.
Texas Redeemed is a passionately written and emotionally gripping story of lust and risk, love and forgiveness, of confronting the damaging secrets of the past for a chance at redemption.
406 pages, Paperback
First published May 1, 2013
6 people are currently reading
500 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews
July 29, 2013
3.5 Stars
Best Friends
Turned Lovers
Loss and Separation
A shocking revelation
Can a man who left it all find his place in the world that he left behind?
MY SYNOPSIS:
Peyton Turner grew up with the world laid at his feet...the heir to the Turner Menswear fortune, he'd been groomed and pampered, and had any job available to him. His grandfather made sure of it...any position, bought and paid for. But Peyton wanted more than the rich man lifestyle. He wanted to pave his own way, to earn respect of his peers and his friends, and he wanted to feel self respect as well. He was a young man still finding himself, with a bit of rebellion in his soul.
Valerie Jordan was Peyton's polar opposite. An orphan young girl sent to live with her emotionally abusive uncle at his failing ranch, she knew what hard work and hard knocks are. These two were unlikely friends, but each found comfort in each other, and they were true friends& willing to forgo what society and their families felt was proper and continue their unconventional devotion to each other. Until one night, Peyton and Valerie take a little too much comfort in each other, and their friendship moved beyond the comfortable level it had been at for so long.
When Peyton's life is turned upside down, he knows that in order to find who he is without the money backing him up, he must get out from under his grandfather's influence. And so Peyton leaves his family, the small town that he grew up in...and Valerie, his best friend. For ten years, Peyton makes a life for himself and becomes his own man. A good man, a doctor who thrives on helping others, on the fast paced life of a Doctor Without Borders. Despite the danger and the chaos, he feels accomplished and worthy...he now has self respect as well as deserved respect from those around him. And his job satisfies his wanderlust. What more could he want? Well, he finds out when he decided to go home for the first time in over a decade, after prompting from his grandfather and a hint at a major change in his will. But what he finds is far more than he expected, because while he's been away wandering, Valerie was left to raise their daughters on her own. This is the story of two people who used to mean the world to each other. Now, their lives are so different, their outlook on each other somewhat bitter. They are simply different people. Valerie just wants to live her simple life ranching and raising her daughter. And now, Peyton doesn't know what he wants. But he knows he's a father, and he can't just walk away this time.
MY THOUGHTS:
This debut novel was not what I expected. There's some meat to these characters, to this town, to these circumstances. There was also a lot of random humor thrown in that was surprising enough to make me snort a few laughs out. The story really seems to border on chick lit for most of the book. Although Valerie and Peyton have definite romantic undertones to their relationship, I didn't feel much sexual tension between them until closer to the end. This was more of a story about people who used to be infinitely close to each other. But adulthood changes people, and they can't go back to what they used to be. Life happens, and it's obvious that Valerie holds a bit of (warranted) bitterness toward the man who left her...not only because he deserted her as a friend, but because he left before he even knew that she was pregnant. She's had to work so hard for her entire life just to get by, and now that her life has finally fallen into place, here comes Peyton...stepping in and wanting to take on the father role, and possibly the lover role as well. She just doesn't know how to handle that, and though you'd think she would be happy to have him back, her inner turmoil is a little heartbreaking. Their daughter, Lucy, is very smart and very level headed aside from the normal teenage angst. She was a highlight of the book for me.
I loved how there was no right and wrong...no black and white. Peyton wasn't made out to be a bad guy...in fact, I got the impression that Valerie is actually somewhat hard headed and not very easy to deal with. I mean, how awful to learn that you've been a father for twelve years and were never told? It can't be THAT hard to find someone. That was a bit hard to swallow for me. And now that he's back and he wants to be in his daughter's life Valerie is dragging her heels and acting as if Peyton is somehow not stable enough to be a dad. To me, Valerie bordered on unreasonable. And yet, Isla Bennet took this ultra touchy subject and let me really empathize with the characters individually. Each point of view change was welcome, because I was continually interested in what would happen next to that person, and I felt like their decisions were all valid.
The romance aspect did fall somewhat flat for me. Peyton made it very apparent that he wanted to be there for the long haul...both for his daughter, and for Valerie. Valerie played pretty hard to get. There were a few moments that could have been bigger, more poignant, more meaningful. I think that I wasn't convinced of their loyalty to each other in the past, and I didn't feel a real connection to them other than what happened in their present day lives. I know they had their sexy times in the back of a car at the batting cages, but there were no flashbacks, no intense teenage feelings, barely any description of why they were such good friends in the past. So their relationship was more “told” than “shown.” The overall pacing was just slow for this part of the story.
I think my favorite part of the book was watching Peyton become a real Dad. After his shock of realizing that he has a half grown daughter, the author didn't just jump in to Daddy mode. Peyton was realistic in his expectations and in his inner turmoil. He allowed a relationship to build naturally, and he never once thought of ignoring his child. Over time, and through a few BIG MOMENTS, he realizes what it is to be a parent. He gets some hard times, some frustration, but then he has those moments that every parent lives for, the times that make all of the heavy stuff worth it. And he seems to be exactly what Valerie and Lucy need to complete their family...
Overall, a very promising debut. Personally, I'd have wanted more romance and less family drama/life lessons to be told. But for readers who like either chick lit with some spicy moments or lighter romance heavy on the big picture, this was a wonderfully rich small town story of a family that finally learns to live and love together. The writing itself was wonderful, almost poetic at times, and Bennett excels at setting the scene and placing the reader inside her book.
Arc provided by the author in exchange for an honest review
Best Friends
Turned Lovers
Loss and Separation
A shocking revelation
Can a man who left it all find his place in the world that he left behind?
MY SYNOPSIS:
Peyton Turner grew up with the world laid at his feet...the heir to the Turner Menswear fortune, he'd been groomed and pampered, and had any job available to him. His grandfather made sure of it...any position, bought and paid for. But Peyton wanted more than the rich man lifestyle. He wanted to pave his own way, to earn respect of his peers and his friends, and he wanted to feel self respect as well. He was a young man still finding himself, with a bit of rebellion in his soul.
Valerie Jordan was Peyton's polar opposite. An orphan young girl sent to live with her emotionally abusive uncle at his failing ranch, she knew what hard work and hard knocks are. These two were unlikely friends, but each found comfort in each other, and they were true friends& willing to forgo what society and their families felt was proper and continue their unconventional devotion to each other. Until one night, Peyton and Valerie take a little too much comfort in each other, and their friendship moved beyond the comfortable level it had been at for so long.
When Peyton's life is turned upside down, he knows that in order to find who he is without the money backing him up, he must get out from under his grandfather's influence. And so Peyton leaves his family, the small town that he grew up in...and Valerie, his best friend. For ten years, Peyton makes a life for himself and becomes his own man. A good man, a doctor who thrives on helping others, on the fast paced life of a Doctor Without Borders. Despite the danger and the chaos, he feels accomplished and worthy...he now has self respect as well as deserved respect from those around him. And his job satisfies his wanderlust. What more could he want? Well, he finds out when he decided to go home for the first time in over a decade, after prompting from his grandfather and a hint at a major change in his will. But what he finds is far more than he expected, because while he's been away wandering, Valerie was left to raise their daughters on her own. This is the story of two people who used to mean the world to each other. Now, their lives are so different, their outlook on each other somewhat bitter. They are simply different people. Valerie just wants to live her simple life ranching and raising her daughter. And now, Peyton doesn't know what he wants. But he knows he's a father, and he can't just walk away this time.
MY THOUGHTS:
This debut novel was not what I expected. There's some meat to these characters, to this town, to these circumstances. There was also a lot of random humor thrown in that was surprising enough to make me snort a few laughs out. The story really seems to border on chick lit for most of the book. Although Valerie and Peyton have definite romantic undertones to their relationship, I didn't feel much sexual tension between them until closer to the end. This was more of a story about people who used to be infinitely close to each other. But adulthood changes people, and they can't go back to what they used to be. Life happens, and it's obvious that Valerie holds a bit of (warranted) bitterness toward the man who left her...not only because he deserted her as a friend, but because he left before he even knew that she was pregnant. She's had to work so hard for her entire life just to get by, and now that her life has finally fallen into place, here comes Peyton...stepping in and wanting to take on the father role, and possibly the lover role as well. She just doesn't know how to handle that, and though you'd think she would be happy to have him back, her inner turmoil is a little heartbreaking. Their daughter, Lucy, is very smart and very level headed aside from the normal teenage angst. She was a highlight of the book for me.
”But he can't quit helping all those people in other countries.” Lucy shrugged. “He can live here and still do that. It's called travel in the twenty first century.”
“It's more complicated than that.”
“No, it's really simple. Grownups just make everything complicated.”
I loved how there was no right and wrong...no black and white. Peyton wasn't made out to be a bad guy...in fact, I got the impression that Valerie is actually somewhat hard headed and not very easy to deal with. I mean, how awful to learn that you've been a father for twelve years and were never told? It can't be THAT hard to find someone. That was a bit hard to swallow for me. And now that he's back and he wants to be in his daughter's life Valerie is dragging her heels and acting as if Peyton is somehow not stable enough to be a dad. To me, Valerie bordered on unreasonable. And yet, Isla Bennet took this ultra touchy subject and let me really empathize with the characters individually. Each point of view change was welcome, because I was continually interested in what would happen next to that person, and I felt like their decisions were all valid.
”Are you that damaged?”
“I'm not damaged,” she seethed, skirting around him and encountering the buffet.
“You are.” He leaned close. “So am I. So's our daughter, and everyone else roaming this planet. If they're not, then they haven't lived long enough yet. It's called life, and we've got to deal with it.”
The romance aspect did fall somewhat flat for me. Peyton made it very apparent that he wanted to be there for the long haul...both for his daughter, and for Valerie. Valerie played pretty hard to get. There were a few moments that could have been bigger, more poignant, more meaningful. I think that I wasn't convinced of their loyalty to each other in the past, and I didn't feel a real connection to them other than what happened in their present day lives. I know they had their sexy times in the back of a car at the batting cages, but there were no flashbacks, no intense teenage feelings, barely any description of why they were such good friends in the past. So their relationship was more “told” than “shown.” The overall pacing was just slow for this part of the story.
I think my favorite part of the book was watching Peyton become a real Dad. After his shock of realizing that he has a half grown daughter, the author didn't just jump in to Daddy mode. Peyton was realistic in his expectations and in his inner turmoil. He allowed a relationship to build naturally, and he never once thought of ignoring his child. Over time, and through a few BIG MOMENTS, he realizes what it is to be a parent. He gets some hard times, some frustration, but then he has those moments that every parent lives for, the times that make all of the heavy stuff worth it. And he seems to be exactly what Valerie and Lucy need to complete their family...
Overall, a very promising debut. Personally, I'd have wanted more romance and less family drama/life lessons to be told. But for readers who like either chick lit with some spicy moments or lighter romance heavy on the big picture, this was a wonderfully rich small town story of a family that finally learns to live and love together. The writing itself was wonderful, almost poetic at times, and Bennett excels at setting the scene and placing the reader inside her book.
Arc provided by the author in exchange for an honest review
October 30, 2013
Find This and Other Reviews At Craves The Angst.
Texas Redeemed is book one in the Night Sky series and is a Contemporary Romance written by Isla Bennet. I received this ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review through Tasty Book Tours .
4 Heartfelt, Encouraging Stars!
A Beautiful Story About Forgiveness, Redemption and Second Chances!
The Review:
What a lovely read. I loved the character and though there were a few issues I had with the story, I really enjoyed it. What a fantastic debut novel by a promising author!
Story/Characters...
When Peyton Turner ran from his hometown, his family and his friends at twenty one, he didn’t look back. He went out and lived his life the way he wanted, the way he felt he needed to. But he didn’t know just what he was leaving behind or what he was giving up. All he knew was he needed to escape the stifling path his affluent grandfather was deceptively mapping out for him and he needed to get as far away from his acidic, alcoholic mother as he could.
He ran away and fulfilled a noble path for thirteen years, only allowing his grandfather to know at first where he landed, but soon that responsibility also became a burden. So he fled, letting no one know his whereabouts, including his childhood best friend Valerie who meant everything to him, but heated words with her the last time he saw her kept him from contacting her, thinking she was better off without him.
Now he’s back thirteen years later only to realize he might have made a huge mistake. Having a young, rebellious teenage daughter he never knew about is only one of the reasons he’s considering planting roots once again. His childhood BFF who he’s always loved has grown into a beautiful, independent woman he’s finding hard to resist and for once, he can see a committed future with someone.
But like always, the pressures and confinements are closing in as his grandfather tries to once again insert his wishes into Peyton's future, his mother is back on his heels and Valerie is resistant to anything personal or permanent. Peyton has to decide what he wants, what's important and what's worth fighting for.
Valeria Jordan has been in love with Peyton since they were kids. Leaving the rushing streets of city life after the death of her parents at a very early age, to live on a ranch with her heartless and unfriendly uncle left her alone and heartbroken until Peyton and his grandmother befriended her.
The night Peyton left, her heart shattered and her life fell apart. Finding out she was pregnant, her uncle disowned her leaving her with no family or friends. She was truly alone. Nine months later, she had twins. Struggling has always been part of her life and she’s no stranger to tragedy so when Peyton shows back up, she’s resistant to what he’s offering, scared her well built walls will crumble and her heart will be shattered once more.
And this time around, she has not only to protect herself, but also her daughter from Peyton’s flightful tendencies or she might lose everything, especially if the secrets she’d been holding onto all these years comes to light.
Thoughts...
I really enjoyed this story. There was a lot going on and a lot of characters to keep track of but I never felt overwhelmed. In fact, I loved all the side stories and sub characters. Overall, the story was wonderful and heartwarming. The writing was beautiful and intense.
Peyton, Valerie and Lucy’s story was both heartbreaking and heartwarming. They had some serious trust issues to work out and a lot of “get to know you” moments to fulfill. All three of them were very real. Peyton, though he didn’t know about his daughter, left behind a family that needed him and a woman that loved him. He was hot-headed and a bit wild and toward the end, before he left, totally out of control, which had a lot to do with his mother and grandfather. It was hard watching him want and need his mother, even after all she’d done to harm him and then finally seeing the end result of all the pain she’d caused. And poor Valerie wanted to believe in Peyton so badly but her trust was broken and she was wracked with guilt over things she’d done in the past. Then there’s Lucy who’s smart as a whip and full of life and character. But she’s also suffering survivors guilt and spiraling out of control herself. She very much takes after her father with her wild and demanding side. This family went through a lot but in the end, they all realized what was important and watching them struggle then find each other, was perfect and beautiful.
I especially loved all the sub stories and characters. The Jordan family was fun and interesting. Valerie built her own family after inheriting her uncles ranch, inviting his ex and children to come and work with her who then became like a mother and siblings. There were some very wonderful, humorous and touching times on the ranch. And then there’s Chase who I definitely want to learn more about. I hope we get his story next!
Wish List...
I did feel this was more of a life story than a romance. Peyton and Valerie had chemistry but it seemed to focus more on the feelings they “used” to have rather than what they were working towards now in the present. I didn’t really getting a romance vibe until towards the end and that, I think, was mostly due to Valerie withholding herself, which I don't blame her for. I would have too. But I wanted to see more of Peyton and Val being emotional with one another, confiding in one another and being romantic with one another. I did really appreciate the fact that Peyton worked first and foremost to get to know his daughter and find a relationship. That was important, especially considering all the time he’d already lost. I do wish the romance had of been heavier. I think there could have been a better balance with the two relationships.
The Wrap Up:
This book was smart, entertaining and a joy to read. This author is truly gifted with the written word and has an amazing ability to tell an beautiful story with interesting characters and a fulfilling plot. I can’t wait to see what she comes up with next. She can definitely add me as a fan.
Texas Redeemed is book one in the Night Sky series and is a Contemporary Romance written by Isla Bennet. I received this ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review through Tasty Book Tours .
4 Heartfelt, Encouraging Stars!
A Beautiful Story About Forgiveness, Redemption and Second Chances!
The Review:
What a lovely read. I loved the character and though there were a few issues I had with the story, I really enjoyed it. What a fantastic debut novel by a promising author!
Story/Characters...
When Peyton Turner ran from his hometown, his family and his friends at twenty one, he didn’t look back. He went out and lived his life the way he wanted, the way he felt he needed to. But he didn’t know just what he was leaving behind or what he was giving up. All he knew was he needed to escape the stifling path his affluent grandfather was deceptively mapping out for him and he needed to get as far away from his acidic, alcoholic mother as he could.
He ran away and fulfilled a noble path for thirteen years, only allowing his grandfather to know at first where he landed, but soon that responsibility also became a burden. So he fled, letting no one know his whereabouts, including his childhood best friend Valerie who meant everything to him, but heated words with her the last time he saw her kept him from contacting her, thinking she was better off without him.
Now he’s back thirteen years later only to realize he might have made a huge mistake. Having a young, rebellious teenage daughter he never knew about is only one of the reasons he’s considering planting roots once again. His childhood BFF who he’s always loved has grown into a beautiful, independent woman he’s finding hard to resist and for once, he can see a committed future with someone.
But like always, the pressures and confinements are closing in as his grandfather tries to once again insert his wishes into Peyton's future, his mother is back on his heels and Valerie is resistant to anything personal or permanent. Peyton has to decide what he wants, what's important and what's worth fighting for.
Valeria Jordan has been in love with Peyton since they were kids. Leaving the rushing streets of city life after the death of her parents at a very early age, to live on a ranch with her heartless and unfriendly uncle left her alone and heartbroken until Peyton and his grandmother befriended her.
The night Peyton left, her heart shattered and her life fell apart. Finding out she was pregnant, her uncle disowned her leaving her with no family or friends. She was truly alone. Nine months later, she had twins. Struggling has always been part of her life and she’s no stranger to tragedy so when Peyton shows back up, she’s resistant to what he’s offering, scared her well built walls will crumble and her heart will be shattered once more.
And this time around, she has not only to protect herself, but also her daughter from Peyton’s flightful tendencies or she might lose everything, especially if the secrets she’d been holding onto all these years comes to light.
Thoughts...
I really enjoyed this story. There was a lot going on and a lot of characters to keep track of but I never felt overwhelmed. In fact, I loved all the side stories and sub characters. Overall, the story was wonderful and heartwarming. The writing was beautiful and intense.
Peyton, Valerie and Lucy’s story was both heartbreaking and heartwarming. They had some serious trust issues to work out and a lot of “get to know you” moments to fulfill. All three of them were very real. Peyton, though he didn’t know about his daughter, left behind a family that needed him and a woman that loved him. He was hot-headed and a bit wild and toward the end, before he left, totally out of control, which had a lot to do with his mother and grandfather. It was hard watching him want and need his mother, even after all she’d done to harm him and then finally seeing the end result of all the pain she’d caused. And poor Valerie wanted to believe in Peyton so badly but her trust was broken and she was wracked with guilt over things she’d done in the past. Then there’s Lucy who’s smart as a whip and full of life and character. But she’s also suffering survivors guilt and spiraling out of control herself. She very much takes after her father with her wild and demanding side. This family went through a lot but in the end, they all realized what was important and watching them struggle then find each other, was perfect and beautiful.
I especially loved all the sub stories and characters. The Jordan family was fun and interesting. Valerie built her own family after inheriting her uncles ranch, inviting his ex and children to come and work with her who then became like a mother and siblings. There were some very wonderful, humorous and touching times on the ranch. And then there’s Chase who I definitely want to learn more about. I hope we get his story next!
Wish List...
I did feel this was more of a life story than a romance. Peyton and Valerie had chemistry but it seemed to focus more on the feelings they “used” to have rather than what they were working towards now in the present. I didn’t really getting a romance vibe until towards the end and that, I think, was mostly due to Valerie withholding herself, which I don't blame her for. I would have too. But I wanted to see more of Peyton and Val being emotional with one another, confiding in one another and being romantic with one another. I did really appreciate the fact that Peyton worked first and foremost to get to know his daughter and find a relationship. That was important, especially considering all the time he’d already lost. I do wish the romance had of been heavier. I think there could have been a better balance with the two relationships.
The Wrap Up:
This book was smart, entertaining and a joy to read. This author is truly gifted with the written word and has an amazing ability to tell an beautiful story with interesting characters and a fulfilling plot. I can’t wait to see what she comes up with next. She can definitely add me as a fan.
August 20, 2013
It's always a tricky thing when an author contacts you and requests you read their novel, i'll admit I don't do this ever. Not sure why I decided to read Texas Redeemed but i'm sure glad that I did.
3.5 stars...
We meet up with Payton Turner and Valerie Jordan 13 years after they separated when Payton left Night Sky in the dead of night. Payton's working for Doctors without boarders and Valerie is running her families cattle ranch with her cousins and daughter. Their lives are so different now than when they came together in a fever that summer night. What will happen when Payton finds out the secret that Val has been keeping for 13 years?
Ms. Bennet writes the lives of Payton and Valerie before they see each other after 13 years, beautifully. They're each so content (from the outside) with the choices they made and the path they took. So when she introduces Lucy you almost don't know where this is going to go. The progression from that moment of meeting his daughter in the children's wing of memorial hospital the the very last word in Texas Redeemed was very organic. I mean that it took on a life of it's own. Parts were not pretty to read but it was real. Or it had that real feeling which is often missing while reading contemporary romance.
Now nothing is perfect and I did roll my eyes at the fact that Payton Turner's family is made of money, but he doesn't need their money nor does he want it. Throughout the book, Valerie is very persistent of Payton, wanting the relationship to grow. I liked that Payton wanted to have a relationship with his daughter before starting up his relationship to Valerie. Thus, Ms. Bennet spent most of the book working up to this moment, where they're finally revealing how they feel about each other only to later take that away. I guess, I just wanted more time with Payton and Valerie together.
In conclusion, I was pleasantly surprised at my admiration for Valerie and Payton. I felt the progression of their relationship was real and believable and also how Lucy reacted to seeing her father for the first time. This is a great first novel by Isla Bennet and I hope to read more from this author.
I have a few questions that maybe Ms. Bennet can answer:
1. Is Chase going to get a book because he was one of my favorite secondary characters and as a reader I wanted to know more about him?
2. Was this written to be part of a series? I felt at times during the middle of the book that there was a sort of transition and maybe you decided to do that?
ARC courtesy of the publisher in exchange for an honest review
Her words chased him, taunted him. We don’t need that kind of fire. Valerie perched on that picnic table, so open, letting him touch her … telling him that he’d made her happy once … It was enough to undo a man. And the only thing more destructive than that was the dangerous urge to make her that happy again.
3.5 stars...
We meet up with Payton Turner and Valerie Jordan 13 years after they separated when Payton left Night Sky in the dead of night. Payton's working for Doctors without boarders and Valerie is running her families cattle ranch with her cousins and daughter. Their lives are so different now than when they came together in a fever that summer night. What will happen when Payton finds out the secret that Val has been keeping for 13 years?
Ms. Bennet writes the lives of Payton and Valerie before they see each other after 13 years, beautifully. They're each so content (from the outside) with the choices they made and the path they took. So when she introduces Lucy you almost don't know where this is going to go. The progression from that moment of meeting his daughter in the children's wing of memorial hospital the the very last word in Texas Redeemed was very organic. I mean that it took on a life of it's own. Parts were not pretty to read but it was real. Or it had that real feeling which is often missing while reading contemporary romance.
Now nothing is perfect and I did roll my eyes at the fact that Payton Turner's family is made of money, but he doesn't need their money nor does he want it. Throughout the book, Valerie is very persistent of Payton, wanting the relationship to grow. I liked that Payton wanted to have a relationship with his daughter before starting up his relationship to Valerie. Thus, Ms. Bennet spent most of the book working up to this moment, where they're finally revealing how they feel about each other only to later take that away. I guess, I just wanted more time with Payton and Valerie together.
In conclusion, I was pleasantly surprised at my admiration for Valerie and Payton. I felt the progression of their relationship was real and believable and also how Lucy reacted to seeing her father for the first time. This is a great first novel by Isla Bennet and I hope to read more from this author.
I have a few questions that maybe Ms. Bennet can answer:
1. Is Chase going to get a book because he was one of my favorite secondary characters and as a reader I wanted to know more about him?
2. Was this written to be part of a series? I felt at times during the middle of the book that there was a sort of transition and maybe you decided to do that?
ARC courtesy of the publisher in exchange for an honest review
July 22, 2013
Reviewed by Julie
for Read Your Writes Book Reviews
This book is quite refreshing in that the long lost bad boy/man comes home to find he impregnated his former best friend who admits immediately upon his return that the girl is his daughter. Most books make you suffer through the woman hiding the fact that the child is her old lover's.
Valerie is a single mother of twin girls, fathered by her former best friend growing up during a one night stand but who left town shortly thereafter, never knowing he impregnated her. She didn't know she was pregnant either so never blamed him after he left town, never to be seen or heard again. Until….
Peyton, the troubled bad boy from Night Sky, TX left town at twenty-one after being smothered by his rich grandfather. He has made a good life for himself by becoming a doctor and doing missions for Doctors Without Borders. Never knowing that his former best friend was raising his daughters alone.
Peyton comes back to town after thirteen years due to his grandfather finally finding him and telling him he changed his will and needs to come home. He decides after seeing Valerie and his daughter that Night Sky isn't so bad after all and decides to stay as he's very much in love with Valerie and wants to be a father to his daughter.
Peyton comes to terms with his alcoholic mother, overbearing grandfather, death of one of his twins and the love of his life, Valerie.
This book is an all around good story that has all the elements of good and sad and happy all rolled into one.
Rating: 3.5
Source: Publisher, Montlake
for Read Your Writes Book Reviews
This book is quite refreshing in that the long lost bad boy/man comes home to find he impregnated his former best friend who admits immediately upon his return that the girl is his daughter. Most books make you suffer through the woman hiding the fact that the child is her old lover's.
Valerie is a single mother of twin girls, fathered by her former best friend growing up during a one night stand but who left town shortly thereafter, never knowing he impregnated her. She didn't know she was pregnant either so never blamed him after he left town, never to be seen or heard again. Until….
Peyton, the troubled bad boy from Night Sky, TX left town at twenty-one after being smothered by his rich grandfather. He has made a good life for himself by becoming a doctor and doing missions for Doctors Without Borders. Never knowing that his former best friend was raising his daughters alone.
Peyton comes back to town after thirteen years due to his grandfather finally finding him and telling him he changed his will and needs to come home. He decides after seeing Valerie and his daughter that Night Sky isn't so bad after all and decides to stay as he's very much in love with Valerie and wants to be a father to his daughter.
Peyton comes to terms with his alcoholic mother, overbearing grandfather, death of one of his twins and the love of his life, Valerie.
This book is an all around good story that has all the elements of good and sad and happy all rolled into one.
Rating: 3.5
Source: Publisher, Montlake
October 6, 2013
This review and others like it are available at confessionsofanadultteenreader.blogspot.ca
When you think of Romance as a genre, the usual stereotypes include a female protagonist, lots of dialogue, a very linear story, and a happy ending. Texas Redeemed might be a Romance – but it completely breaks the mould.
Going through med school and traveling the world as part of Doctors Without Borders has acted as a distraction from the rebellious life Peyton Turner ran from thirteen years before. Back in his Texas hometown of Night Sky, Peyton learns the youthful mistake he regrets the most, is one he didn’t know he made. In the years he was gone, he intentionally stayed hidden from his complicated family life, but in his silence, he unknowingly prevented his best friend Valerie from being able to tell him she was pregnant with his twins. In an attempt to come to terms with the experiences he missed out on, Peyton sets out to claim what could have been. But the damage done by leaving may be a cut too deep for the good doctor to fix.
There are so many novels (especially in the romance genre) where women get ‘rescued’ from their pasts by a man. In Texas Redeemed, first as children and then as adults, Peyton and Val support each other, and that support helps them move past the pain in their pasts – no rescue, just an honest relationship. Peyton and Val’s history is complex. The hurt they feel is very real, but the love and support they had is still there, if they are willing to trust each other enough to get it back. Night Sky is a very real and full character throughout the novel. The sense of community and family that Val has created on her ranch contrasted with the success and money hungry world that Peyton’s grandfather lives in is captivating, and adds a dynamic of unknown to a genre that can be very predictable.
Lucy, Peyton and Val’s daughter, was without a doubt my favorite part of the novel. Through Lucy we see the damage Peyton unknowingly did when he left. She is intensely affected by having the father she never knew walk into her life, stirring up hidden feelings of abandonment, as well as feelings of guilt for surviving an illness her twin did not. The hurt she feels, and the sense of loss that Peyton ultimately feels because of Lucy’s traumas, is heartbreaking. It is through Lucy’s experiences with Peyton’s family that the reader comes to understand why Peyton had to leave, why you can forgive him for leaving, and that it’s ok to hope Val and Lucy can do the same. As much as I loved the natural and realistic re-growth of Peyton and Val’s relationship – because I really did – the relationship that Peyton and Lucy work to cultivate is so much more endearing and swoon worthy.
Bennet adds depth to a genre that is not always known for realistic storylines, captivating characters, or a lush sense of place. While initially put off a bit by the descriptive writing style, I was very quickly absorbed in Night Sky’s world, and the characters lives. I will definitely be looking out for what Bennet writes next
Rating 8.5/10
*** I received a copy of the novel from the author to read and honestly review. I was in no way compensated, and my opinion of the novel was in no way swayed.
When you think of Romance as a genre, the usual stereotypes include a female protagonist, lots of dialogue, a very linear story, and a happy ending. Texas Redeemed might be a Romance – but it completely breaks the mould.
Going through med school and traveling the world as part of Doctors Without Borders has acted as a distraction from the rebellious life Peyton Turner ran from thirteen years before. Back in his Texas hometown of Night Sky, Peyton learns the youthful mistake he regrets the most, is one he didn’t know he made. In the years he was gone, he intentionally stayed hidden from his complicated family life, but in his silence, he unknowingly prevented his best friend Valerie from being able to tell him she was pregnant with his twins. In an attempt to come to terms with the experiences he missed out on, Peyton sets out to claim what could have been. But the damage done by leaving may be a cut too deep for the good doctor to fix.
There are so many novels (especially in the romance genre) where women get ‘rescued’ from their pasts by a man. In Texas Redeemed, first as children and then as adults, Peyton and Val support each other, and that support helps them move past the pain in their pasts – no rescue, just an honest relationship. Peyton and Val’s history is complex. The hurt they feel is very real, but the love and support they had is still there, if they are willing to trust each other enough to get it back. Night Sky is a very real and full character throughout the novel. The sense of community and family that Val has created on her ranch contrasted with the success and money hungry world that Peyton’s grandfather lives in is captivating, and adds a dynamic of unknown to a genre that can be very predictable.
Lucy, Peyton and Val’s daughter, was without a doubt my favorite part of the novel. Through Lucy we see the damage Peyton unknowingly did when he left. She is intensely affected by having the father she never knew walk into her life, stirring up hidden feelings of abandonment, as well as feelings of guilt for surviving an illness her twin did not. The hurt she feels, and the sense of loss that Peyton ultimately feels because of Lucy’s traumas, is heartbreaking. It is through Lucy’s experiences with Peyton’s family that the reader comes to understand why Peyton had to leave, why you can forgive him for leaving, and that it’s ok to hope Val and Lucy can do the same. As much as I loved the natural and realistic re-growth of Peyton and Val’s relationship – because I really did – the relationship that Peyton and Lucy work to cultivate is so much more endearing and swoon worthy.
Bennet adds depth to a genre that is not always known for realistic storylines, captivating characters, or a lush sense of place. While initially put off a bit by the descriptive writing style, I was very quickly absorbed in Night Sky’s world, and the characters lives. I will definitely be looking out for what Bennet writes next
Rating 8.5/10
*** I received a copy of the novel from the author to read and honestly review. I was in no way compensated, and my opinion of the novel was in no way swayed.
October 29, 2013
TEXAS REDEEMED is one of my favorite kind of romances, not just a second chance, which I LOVE, but a Second Chance You-Didn't-Know-You're-a-Daddy kind of Romance. Peyton Turner comes back to his home-town to find out that his best-friend actually got pregnant from the one night stand they'd had before he left town for good, never to return again.
The difference between this romance/women's fiction and other of the same style, Peyton finds out right from the beginning of the book, and the story is spent on him getting to know his teenage daughter, Lucy, who doesn't want anything to do with him, and finding love again with Valerie, his best-friend and mother of his child.
Add some drama and heart-breaking scenes, and you have a fabulous story about finding love again and so much more, in the last place you would think to look. TEXAS REDEEMED is a heart-squeezer, and you will be pulled in from page one.
The difference between this romance/women's fiction and other of the same style, Peyton finds out right from the beginning of the book, and the story is spent on him getting to know his teenage daughter, Lucy, who doesn't want anything to do with him, and finding love again with Valerie, his best-friend and mother of his child.
Add some drama and heart-breaking scenes, and you have a fabulous story about finding love again and so much more, in the last place you would think to look. TEXAS REDEEMED is a heart-squeezer, and you will be pulled in from page one.
September 30, 2013
I absolutely loved “Texas Redeemed” by Isla Bennet. She is a gifted storyteller and the book was wonderfully written. I laughed and cried along with the characters and found myself wanting to comfort the child in the story. The book had me captivated from the very first chapter and I just could not put it down. I can’t wait to see what she comes up with next because she has become one of my new favorite authors!!
I received Texas Redeemed as a Goodreads First Read Giveaway.
I received Texas Redeemed as a Goodreads First Read Giveaway.
November 15, 2013
I received a complimentary copy of this book as a part of a book tour in exchange for a fair and honest review. I rated it 4 out of 5 stars.
An emotionally charged second chance romance, Texas Redeemed by Isla Bennet focuses on the healing and redemptive powers of love and forgiveness. Filled with multi-layered characters, good dialogue and set in a small town, Ms. Bennet captured my attention from the first page and never let go. The first in a series of romances set in Night Sky, Texas, I look forward to seeing where Ms. Bennet takes us with her stories.
Taking a much needed vacation from Doctors without Borders, Peyton Turner heads home to Night Sky, Texas to deal with unresolved family issues. Intending to deal with his grandfather’s demands and then head back out of town, Peyton is shocked when he discovers he’s the father of a teen-aged daughter. Determined to be a part of his daughter’s life, Peyton will have to face the demons from his past in order to have a chance at a new future.
Valerie Jordan learned that life is what you make of it the hard way. Abandoned by her best friend, and one time lover, she raised two daughters on her own only to lose one to disease. Raising a teenage daughter is tough; facing her daughter’s father after 13 years is tougher. Especially when you are indirectly involved in what drove him away in the past.
The scenes between Peyton and Valerie are full of emotional angst, unresolved issues from their childhood and an intense attraction neither can deny. Ms. Bennet does a good job developing their characters throughout the book. While they both have flaws, they are both determined to be the best parent they can be for Lucy, their soon to be thirteen year old daughter, who has issues of her own. They also have to deal with Nathaniel, Peyton’s rich and powerful grandfather, who still wants to push Peyton into living the life he wants him to and now also wants to be involved in Lucy’s future.
Both Valerie and Peyton will also have to be honest about their past motivations and deal with the emotional upheaval when the truth behind the lies is revealed. They’ll also have to work hand in hand to help Lucy deal with her emotional issues so that she doesn’t repeat Peyton’s mistake of running away from trouble.
Will Peyton and Valerie be able to forge a new and loving relationship? Will Lucy accept and love the father who missed the first 13 years of her life? You’ll have to read Texas Redeemed to find out. I enjoyed it and look forward to reading more of Ms. Bennet’s work.
An emotionally charged second chance romance, Texas Redeemed by Isla Bennet focuses on the healing and redemptive powers of love and forgiveness. Filled with multi-layered characters, good dialogue and set in a small town, Ms. Bennet captured my attention from the first page and never let go. The first in a series of romances set in Night Sky, Texas, I look forward to seeing where Ms. Bennet takes us with her stories.
Taking a much needed vacation from Doctors without Borders, Peyton Turner heads home to Night Sky, Texas to deal with unresolved family issues. Intending to deal with his grandfather’s demands and then head back out of town, Peyton is shocked when he discovers he’s the father of a teen-aged daughter. Determined to be a part of his daughter’s life, Peyton will have to face the demons from his past in order to have a chance at a new future.
Valerie Jordan learned that life is what you make of it the hard way. Abandoned by her best friend, and one time lover, she raised two daughters on her own only to lose one to disease. Raising a teenage daughter is tough; facing her daughter’s father after 13 years is tougher. Especially when you are indirectly involved in what drove him away in the past.
The scenes between Peyton and Valerie are full of emotional angst, unresolved issues from their childhood and an intense attraction neither can deny. Ms. Bennet does a good job developing their characters throughout the book. While they both have flaws, they are both determined to be the best parent they can be for Lucy, their soon to be thirteen year old daughter, who has issues of her own. They also have to deal with Nathaniel, Peyton’s rich and powerful grandfather, who still wants to push Peyton into living the life he wants him to and now also wants to be involved in Lucy’s future.
Both Valerie and Peyton will also have to be honest about their past motivations and deal with the emotional upheaval when the truth behind the lies is revealed. They’ll also have to work hand in hand to help Lucy deal with her emotional issues so that she doesn’t repeat Peyton’s mistake of running away from trouble.
Will Peyton and Valerie be able to forge a new and loving relationship? Will Lucy accept and love the father who missed the first 13 years of her life? You’ll have to read Texas Redeemed to find out. I enjoyed it and look forward to reading more of Ms. Bennet’s work.
November 7, 2013
Valerie works hard on her ranch and tries not to depend on anyone. She did years ago with her best friend Peyton. After a night together he took off and hasn't been back since then. When he finally returns home he doesn't plan on staying that is until he finds out he and Valerie have a teenage daughter. Valerie is afraid to let her daughter get close to him and be hurt when he leaves again. He slowly wears down her and his daughters walls to try and have a small family. Betrayals of the past come back to haunt them and may tear them apart forever.
Valerie is a hard working woman who has had some tragedy in her life. She doesn't trust easy now and will do anything for her daughter. She has some friends she considers just like family. Peyton left years ago and has become a changed man. No one wants to believe he has changed. They all think he has lived the high life and not done a lot with his life. He has actually went to different countries and helped people in bad situations. He loves being a doctor and takes it very serious. He wants to live his life the way he wants.
This book has a little bit for everyone. It has a heartbreaking part that really touched me. Valerie has had a huge loss and I truly felt for her. There is the romance between Peyton and Valerie try their best not to ruin what friendship they have. They both want things to work but are afraid to. I will say I love their daughter she is so awesome. There is also an element of betrayal in this book as something happened years ago that does come back to hurt the ones involved. You really get to know these characters and you keep hoping and rooting for them to work things out. This is a wonderful touching book that many will love.
Valerie is a hard working woman who has had some tragedy in her life. She doesn't trust easy now and will do anything for her daughter. She has some friends she considers just like family. Peyton left years ago and has become a changed man. No one wants to believe he has changed. They all think he has lived the high life and not done a lot with his life. He has actually went to different countries and helped people in bad situations. He loves being a doctor and takes it very serious. He wants to live his life the way he wants.
This book has a little bit for everyone. It has a heartbreaking part that really touched me. Valerie has had a huge loss and I truly felt for her. There is the romance between Peyton and Valerie try their best not to ruin what friendship they have. They both want things to work but are afraid to. I will say I love their daughter she is so awesome. There is also an element of betrayal in this book as something happened years ago that does come back to hurt the ones involved. You really get to know these characters and you keep hoping and rooting for them to work things out. This is a wonderful touching book that many will love.
November 16, 2013
Texas Redeemed is a fitting title for this story. Years ago, two people crossed the friends to lovers line. There were consequences. But of course, Peyton doesn't know this. Now, thirteen years later, he's home, and in for some surprises.
The story is full of emotions. Good and bad, which the author does a great job executing the emotions to the reader. It drew me in and had me feeling some of the things they were. There's a few times the pacing slows down, but overall it's a great, quick paced read. I rooted for and also struggled with Peyton and Valerie. I hoped things would work for them even though at times it seemed the end was nowhere in sight. This is a richly emotional story that kept me turning the pages. I'm keeping this author on my radar to watch.
The story is full of emotions. Good and bad, which the author does a great job executing the emotions to the reader. It drew me in and had me feeling some of the things they were. There's a few times the pacing slows down, but overall it's a great, quick paced read. I rooted for and also struggled with Peyton and Valerie. I hoped things would work for them even though at times it seemed the end was nowhere in sight. This is a richly emotional story that kept me turning the pages. I'm keeping this author on my radar to watch.
February 10, 2016
Texas Redeemed review
Texas Redeemed is the first book in the Night Sky series written by author Isla Bennet. The story was a bit too long for me.
Texas Redeemed is the first book in the Night Sky series written by author Isla Bennet. The story was a bit too long for me.
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