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Denial
Time spent in Somalia has Doctor Celeste Cameron accustomed to living and working in a war zone. Coming back home to America, Celeste is glad to see the end of the peril she has been in—or so she thinks. Danger seems to follow Celeste and she finds it in the shape of Amy. What Celeste feels for Amy scares her more than anything she has faced in war zones.
Amy has the same feelings, but is in denial and vows to marry Josh, Celeste’s twin brother, no matter what. When fate brings them together again, will they give in to their mutual attraction or will they once again deny what they feel.
Amy has the same feelings, but is in denial and vows to marry Josh, Celeste’s twin brother, no matter what. When fate brings them together again, will they give in to their mutual attraction or will they once again deny what they feel.
369 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 26, 2013
36 people are currently reading
1212 people want to read
About the author
Jackie Kennedy
1 book84 followersJackie Kennedy lives in Scotland. She lives an ordinary life, doing ordinary things. Until she flips open her laptop...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 129 reviews
October 1, 2015
I have waited for the publication of this book for years. I first read it as free online fiction when I was still getting my feet wet in lesfic and I can honestly say that more than any other book, it was this one that got me hopelessly hooked. Four years and a few hundred books and fanfics later, I still count this as one of my all-time top 5 favorite reads. And I'm glad to finally be able to officially place it on my favorites shelf.
The premise of the book alone is heart-wrenching. What do you do when you find the soul mate you've been looking for all your life, only to discover that she's committed to someone else--someone you also love dearly. Super duper angst is what you get. And the fantastic author makes us go through it as well, putting the reader's emotions through the wringer again and again and yet again. Make sure the tissue box is full!
'Denial' is about a very intense and passionate love that at times, seems to border on obsession. It is so all-consuming that the protagonists What HEA ending can the author possibly pull off from such an impossible love?
I love the author's depiction of the ill-starred lovers. I felt all their pain, their worries, their conflicting emotions and their burning passion for each other. These characters felt so real. They're seriously flawed and so touchingly human. The entire supporting cast (and there are quite a few) is excellently drawn. Every character is well-rounded and multi-dimensional. What does it say about a book, when years after I'd read it, I still remember the names of practically every supporting character in it. In most lesfic books, I can barely remember the rather generic interchangeable leads, let alone their names--even if the book is in my fave list. Despite the big cast, at no time did the book ever felt noisy or crowded--it is all about Amy and Celeste.
For once, I don't have any gripes at all. Not even little ones. Well, maybe the cover...it looks so amateurish. But that's probably the publisher's fault. As for the book itself, I would have been 2x happier if the author had spent more time in Celeste's head, or featured her POV more. I'm such a sucker for angst and I wanted to know more about how she managed to get through life with all the Wouldn't it be just heavenly if the author would write the whole book from Celeste's POV? Or maybe, as a token for the fans, can the author do a few vignettes (like fanfic does to TV shows) that feature Celeste in those dark moments.
I hope that the fact that this book is #1 right now in Amazon's lesfic category encourages the author to write more. I have read all her other online works and she is an excellent storyteller, even in a totally different genre like scifi.
Final Notes: Needless to say, this book is neck-deep in angst. So angst-averse people should avoid. Also moralists.
The premise of the book alone is heart-wrenching. What do you do when you find the soul mate you've been looking for all your life, only to discover that she's committed to someone else--someone you also love dearly. Super duper angst is what you get. And the fantastic author makes us go through it as well, putting the reader's emotions through the wringer again and again and yet again. Make sure the tissue box is full!
'Denial' is about a very intense and passionate love that at times, seems to border on obsession. It is so all-consuming that the protagonists What HEA ending can the author possibly pull off from such an impossible love?
I love the author's depiction of the ill-starred lovers. I felt all their pain, their worries, their conflicting emotions and their burning passion for each other. These characters felt so real. They're seriously flawed and so touchingly human. The entire supporting cast (and there are quite a few) is excellently drawn. Every character is well-rounded and multi-dimensional. What does it say about a book, when years after I'd read it, I still remember the names of practically every supporting character in it. In most lesfic books, I can barely remember the rather generic interchangeable leads, let alone their names--even if the book is in my fave list. Despite the big cast, at no time did the book ever felt noisy or crowded--it is all about Amy and Celeste.
For once, I don't have any gripes at all. Not even little ones. Well, maybe the cover...it looks so amateurish. But that's probably the publisher's fault. As for the book itself, I would have been 2x happier if the author had spent more time in Celeste's head, or featured her POV more. I'm such a sucker for angst and I wanted to know more about how she managed to get through life with all the Wouldn't it be just heavenly if the author would write the whole book from Celeste's POV? Or maybe, as a token for the fans, can the author do a few vignettes (like fanfic does to TV shows) that feature Celeste in those dark moments.
I hope that the fact that this book is #1 right now in Amazon's lesfic category encourages the author to write more. I have read all her other online works and she is an excellent storyteller, even in a totally different genre like scifi.
Final Notes: Needless to say, this book is neck-deep in angst. So angst-averse people should avoid. Also moralists.
June 24, 2016
I would easily say this is one of my all time favorite books! I don't think I have ever seen such a connection between 2 people.. Both characters are obsessed with eachother .. At a point of time I wanted to kick Amy or slap her just wake her the hell up! I wouldn't say this is a romantic book because the amount of frustration you feel is insane! The obsession is just insane and the stubbornness drives you crazy at a certain point. I couldn't put the book down .. The only issue I have is trying to find a book to read now because it's going to be very hard to find something similar let alone better! Oh and by the way, I don't really care if their decisions are unethical! Normally you'd think that you want them to stop because it's the right thing to do.. But to be honest, I didn't care about josh (sorry if anyone thinks I'm unethical) :)
November 17, 2020
A few years ago, everyone seemed to be reading this book. People raved about it. Talked about its all consuming turmoil. One of those stories that pull you in and don’t let you go until the end. Then there were others who were angry about the infidelity as well as questioning a hot button scene. I finally got a chance to read and see what the fuss was about.
Celeste comes home after another humanitarian turn as a civilian doctor in a war zone. She’s a bit broken and family is the perfect salve. Her brother, Josh, is engaged, the wedding plans in full mode. But like a single tumbling domino, Celeste meeting and spending time with her future sister-in-law, Amy, triggers an explosive series of events that build in momentum over the years and create havoc for all.
From the author’s notes, this book began as fanfic and the beginning feels like it. But about a quarter of the way in, the author hits her groove and I was hooked. Every new turn made me gasp and the sex scenes are fierce. There’s heartbreak here but also healing. Well told story that made me squeal in the best ways. It’s a Mega Angst read that in the end, left me clapping hard. 4.25 stars.
Buddy read with fellow reviewer, Tere.
Celeste comes home after another humanitarian turn as a civilian doctor in a war zone. She’s a bit broken and family is the perfect salve. Her brother, Josh, is engaged, the wedding plans in full mode. But like a single tumbling domino, Celeste meeting and spending time with her future sister-in-law, Amy, triggers an explosive series of events that build in momentum over the years and create havoc for all.
From the author’s notes, this book began as fanfic and the beginning feels like it. But about a quarter of the way in, the author hits her groove and I was hooked. Every new turn made me gasp and the sex scenes are fierce. There’s heartbreak here but also healing. Well told story that made me squeal in the best ways. It’s a Mega Angst read that in the end, left me clapping hard. 4.25 stars.
Buddy read with fellow reviewer, Tere.
June 23, 2021
5 🦙 (drama llamas) - What in the crazy soap opera did I just read?!
If you are looking for an intense read, full of forbidden passion, unbelievable heartbreaking tragedy and a bond that will be pulled to its breaking point, then this book is gonna rock your world. Like...wow. I could barely put the book down for the last 25%.
trigger warning for infidelity. that part was hard to read but i decided to just go with the whole really well done soap opera vibe and ride it out. What a ride it was.
This is a story that is going to stick in my head for a long time. I would put it right up there with Truth and Measure as one of those books that makes you feel...everything.
If you are looking for an intense read, full of forbidden passion, unbelievable heartbreaking tragedy and a bond that will be pulled to its breaking point, then this book is gonna rock your world. Like...wow. I could barely put the book down for the last 25%.
trigger warning for infidelity. that part was hard to read but i decided to just go with the whole really well done soap opera vibe and ride it out. What a ride it was.
This is a story that is going to stick in my head for a long time. I would put it right up there with Truth and Measure as one of those books that makes you feel...everything.
December 15, 2018
To some extent, this book was painful to read, but it was worthy of every single heartwrenching minute. But to make it short, I also think, as someone has already said, that Jem's review says it all. And yes, the book is great, but the cover is awful (not a fault of the writer of course).
February 26, 2021
This is literally Emisue..
Amy is the most frustrating person alive. For the first half of the book I wanted to scream at her but in the second half things truly changed for me and then I wanted to sue her for emotional damages. If the book were any longer I'd be contemplating murder rn I am sure.
Amy is the most frustrating person alive. For the first half of the book I wanted to scream at her but in the second half things truly changed for me and then I wanted to sue her for emotional damages. If the book were any longer I'd be contemplating murder rn I am sure.
November 17, 2020
This was angst filled. Like a horrible accident that you can’t stop reading about. All things considered, the author did great pulling the characters out of the impossible hole she dug for them. And kept me reading which is the main criteria nowadays. Thanks 2020.
October 5, 2023
Holy. Fucking. Shit. 😱 I can honestly say that I have never been on such a crazy rollercoaster ride, physically or emotionally. 😵💫 This book was like Days of Our Lives on some sort of drug! 😨 I binged it in one night!!
The push/pull of the relationship between Amy and Celeste was absolutely insane! 🤯 This book was filled to the brim with insanely hot, intense moments, as well as devastating and brutal moments. Trauma is something that everyone deals with differently and this book did such a good job (imo) of portraying that. 😔
It might not be everyone's cup of tea, but apparently forbidden romances are definitely up my alley. I personally loved the time jumps to show you that no matter how much time had lapsed, the two main characters could not contain their true desires and emotions for one another. I won't give away too much, but this one had me so incredibly turned on one moment 🥵 and crying in the next 😭. I can't even 🥺. This one is a hard one to find since it was from 2013 and I was lucky enough to find a copy, so don't give up hope. It is an absolute MUST READ. I will definitely be re-reading all the hot/devastating bookmarks I made so I can relive the pleasure/pain because I'm a sadist like that. 🤣 15/10
The push/pull of the relationship between Amy and Celeste was absolutely insane! 🤯 This book was filled to the brim with insanely hot, intense moments, as well as devastating and brutal moments. Trauma is something that everyone deals with differently and this book did such a good job (imo) of portraying that. 😔
It might not be everyone's cup of tea, but apparently forbidden romances are definitely up my alley. I personally loved the time jumps to show you that no matter how much time had lapsed, the two main characters could not contain their true desires and emotions for one another. I won't give away too much, but this one had me so incredibly turned on one moment 🥵 and crying in the next 😭. I can't even 🥺. This one is a hard one to find since it was from 2013 and I was lucky enough to find a copy, so don't give up hope. It is an absolute MUST READ. I will definitely be re-reading all the hot/devastating bookmarks I made so I can relive the pleasure/pain because I'm a sadist like that. 🤣 15/10
May 22, 2018
5-
This is a very well written story that goes outside the usual formula for lesbian fiction. When girl meets girl, they don't like each other. Amy is married to Celeste's twin brother and is a very busy mother of twin boys. She is also an overworked and stressed architect. Celeste is a doctor traveling to the war torn countries of the world. They are slowly and steadily drawn to each other though they try in vain to fight it. There is laughter, tears and tragedy in this story.
I put down this book at an especially bleak part of the story and was not sure I would continue with it. It was just too sad and hopeless. Well, I did finish it but it was an exhausting emotional journey. I don't think I would read this again.
This is a very well written story that goes outside the usual formula for lesbian fiction. When girl meets girl, they don't like each other. Amy is married to Celeste's twin brother and is a very busy mother of twin boys. She is also an overworked and stressed architect. Celeste is a doctor traveling to the war torn countries of the world. They are slowly and steadily drawn to each other though they try in vain to fight it. There is laughter, tears and tragedy in this story.
I put down this book at an especially bleak part of the story and was not sure I would continue with it. It was just too sad and hopeless. Well, I did finish it but it was an exhausting emotional journey. I don't think I would read this again.
August 18, 2014
I didn't like the story at first (I took a few days off of reading even)... then the author decided to make things ugly and even uglier and I found myself turning pages. This is not an ideal romance. It's gritty and some parts are, quoting another reader, hard to read but there is something special about it that's gonna reel you in.
July 27, 2021
That was stressful but I also couldn't stop reading.
April 14, 2016
Can't judge a book by its cover. Because... yeah, Denial's cover doesn't satisfy my eyes. Not the worst, but it doesn't convey the BRILLIANCE OF THIS BOOK.
This used to be uber, right? I get those vibes and sometimes, that's not a good vibe. However, forget that noise! This book is supremely engaging, heart-wrenching, and steamy. I alway enjoy fiction sex with romance and plot blah, blah all that. Damn, this delivers.
However, it's not only about sex. This book is a journey. I genuinely felt for the main characters and cheered for them throughout. It kept me at the edge of my seat (or wherever I was sitting) and then THAT ONE PART It drew me even further into their lives and that lasted until the very end. Five stars, no question about it.
This used to be uber, right? I get those vibes and sometimes, that's not a good vibe. However, forget that noise! This book is supremely engaging, heart-wrenching, and steamy. I alway enjoy fiction sex with romance and plot blah, blah all that. Damn, this delivers.
However, it's not only about sex. This book is a journey. I genuinely felt for the main characters and cheered for them throughout. It kept me at the edge of my seat (or wherever I was sitting) and then THAT ONE PART It drew me even further into their lives and that lasted until the very end. Five stars, no question about it.
February 3, 2021
This book is almost unrelentingly angsty with ambiguous morality but hugely readable and strangely satisfying.
Read the full review @ https://bestlesficreviews.blogspot.co...
Read the full review @ https://bestlesficreviews.blogspot.co...
April 6, 2014
I think Jem's review says it all.
This is a very special book.
That will remain in my memory for a long time.
Some say in their review that it is a roller coaster of emotions.
That's true, but what a journey to experience as a reader.
While reading for two nights, I was completely sucked into the life of Celeste and Amy. At the end of the book I found it hard to say goodbye.
No, it is not a light read. And yes, I have needed tissues, but that says something about the quality of a book, when it touches me so deeply.
Books like this give me a reason to keep reading with the same enthusiastic feeling than when I started reading my first f/f Book.
This is a very special book.
That will remain in my memory for a long time.
Some say in their review that it is a roller coaster of emotions.
That's true, but what a journey to experience as a reader.
While reading for two nights, I was completely sucked into the life of Celeste and Amy. At the end of the book I found it hard to say goodbye.
No, it is not a light read. And yes, I have needed tissues, but that says something about the quality of a book, when it touches me so deeply.
Books like this give me a reason to keep reading with the same enthusiastic feeling than when I started reading my first f/f Book.
September 4, 2013
Well damn, that was quite a roller coaster, but very well done for this genre. I was definitely pulled in and fully immersed in this book once I began reading.
The characters are complex and actually act like real life humans. There is angst, and stupid decisions, mind games, and a whole host of things that people actually do to one another even when in love. Couldn't quite believe what I was reading after one incident. I threw my hands up and exclaimed in the general direction of the author, "You can't do that!!!!".
Couldn't put the book down, despite my general dislike of angst (most angst does seem rather more frustrating than upsetting in this genre, to be fair). The two mains are flawed, but compelling. The intimate scenes very, very well done, and in keeping with the feel of the book.
The ending (as with a lot of these books) left me feeling a little hollow, however. I wanted a bit more. Something a bit more attuned to the way I was clinging to my kindle in the hope I hadn't gone through all that angst for nothing. I wasn't disappointed exactly, but ...given the rest of the book it felt slightly light and fluffy. It didn't spoil the journey, but left me a bit up in the air.
All in all, though, now one of a very few books I've given 5 stars to. Good stuff.
The characters are complex and actually act like real life humans. There is angst, and stupid decisions, mind games, and a whole host of things that people actually do to one another even when in love. Couldn't quite believe what I was reading after one incident. I threw my hands up and exclaimed in the general direction of the author, "You can't do that!!!!".
Couldn't put the book down, despite my general dislike of angst (most angst does seem rather more frustrating than upsetting in this genre, to be fair). The two mains are flawed, but compelling. The intimate scenes very, very well done, and in keeping with the feel of the book.
The ending (as with a lot of these books) left me feeling a little hollow, however. I wanted a bit more. Something a bit more attuned to the way I was clinging to my kindle in the hope I hadn't gone through all that angst for nothing. I wasn't disappointed exactly, but ...given the rest of the book it felt slightly light and fluffy. It didn't spoil the journey, but left me a bit up in the air.
All in all, though, now one of a very few books I've given 5 stars to. Good stuff.
May 5, 2014
....Having never read a f/f based book before I'm left unsure of what to think and how to feel upon finishing this story?
What I can clearly state is that this book was engaging, endearing, heart-wrenching, thought provoking which stirred my emotions from beginning to end. I haven't read such a moving and compassionate book as this in ages, simply ages, it even kept me up all night til I'd finished it. I couldn't stop reading it til I was done. Perfect lives in fiction can be stayed; feeling unreal and boring sometimes, but this was far from perfect people living perfect lives. It was intense and messy, but messy often equals real. And this felt so real, so very real to me. Moral standards be darned, just the way I like my books.
I Absolutely Loved It!!!!
A True Gem Of A Book, and I would gladly beg, steal or borrow for a sequel! I need to have more!!! ... but for now I can go away with the warm feeling of having found yet another genre I'd willing read more books in.
September 30, 2013
If you like a boat load of angst wrapped up in a roller coaster ride of emotions then this is the book for you.
I am impressed with this authors ability to weave such a complex story with characters and scenes I will not soon forget.
The premise might be stereotypical Lesfic but what sets Denial apart and above the rest is the authors vivid and spot on portayal of all her MCs along with several fully developed ande entertaining side characters.
I did think the ending was a bit too rushed and unrealistic based on the preceding chapters but the HEA was a relief after all that denial and yes, frustration to which we readers were subjected.
A page turner that was slow to start but once rolling, was hard to put down.
I am impressed with this authors ability to weave such a complex story with characters and scenes I will not soon forget.
The premise might be stereotypical Lesfic but what sets Denial apart and above the rest is the authors vivid and spot on portayal of all her MCs along with several fully developed ande entertaining side characters.
I did think the ending was a bit too rushed and unrealistic based on the preceding chapters but the HEA was a relief after all that denial and yes, frustration to which we readers were subjected.
A page turner that was slow to start but once rolling, was hard to put down.
July 19, 2019
This book was absolute crap. The author took 0 time to develop any level of attraction between the main characters, she just made them have sex Tourette’s. Then instead of trying to deal with the fallout of an affair the author chose the most clichéd plot line ever of killing off the family instead of dealing with it.
February 28, 2016
Classic example of not everything is right or wrong!
April 3, 2017
4.4 stars
This book is extremely well written. The author does an amazing job weaving this epic story of passion, infidelity, punishment, tragedy, and love. Jackie Kennedy throws us into one of the most taboo issues of all, cheating on your spouse and doing it with your spouse's twin! I think one of the things that made this book so well done is that the author didn't shy away from the ugliness of it all. If she was serving up infidelity, then she was going to grab us by the scruff of our collar and give us every glorious detail, the good and the bad.
In the beginning of the book, there's definitely a voyeuristic feel to it as we're getting an intimate look at a forbidden, shame filled situation. I was actually really curious on "What would make this author want to write this?" It's so different from nearly all romance/love/sex/whatever stories I've read. There's no happy, happy joy joy feelings here as the two leads come together (unless you're into that sort of thing, I guess). As the reader, though, this shifted from the voyeuristic, "I shouldn't want them to be together" to a "of course, they should be together!" sentiment as the book progresses. The uncomfortable feelings went away I think because, after awhile, the affair feels justified. The author makes it clear that Celeste and Amy should've been together from the beginning in the first place and their love and relationship is superior and more authentic than Amy's marriage to Josh, no matter how good of a guy Josh is.
Just like her characters, the author takes us through the ringer for enjoying it, though. There's a lot of tragedy and darkness in this book that doesn't completely go away, even with a happy ending.
What I didn't love: Celeste was a bully in the first half of the book. For every seduction scene Amy either said "No" or set a boundary. Each time, Celeste pushed past it until Amy buckled. When Amy held to one of her limits, which was she wanted to reserve sleeping for Josh, Celeste became passive aggressive. How much more powerful would it have been for Amy to protest and then meet Celeste on her own terms, climb into Celeste's bed to sleep rather than Celeste being spiteful so Amy gives in? I would've been a much more satisfied reader if Amy initially protests, Celeste backs off and then Amy can't help herself. This constant pushing completely turned me off and is the one thing that made me feel creepy. In a book filled with taboo and darkness, that's saying a lot. Later on in the book, when one of the major plot twists occurs, Celeste changes this dynamic and backs off until Amy comes to her. Was this intentional? Eh, I don't know. I do know, at least I felt more sympathetic to Celeste's character in the second half of the book.
So many comments have already been made on this story so I'll just hit some highlights:
To concur with others, the sex scenes were extremely hot and steamy and well written.
There are so many characters in the book and the author does a lot of perspective changes where we get into each of their heads but it was so well done, I was never confused, never jarred, or felt it held the book down. The same can be said about the flashback scenes.
Dialogue, description, narrative, sex scenes, etc are all written in a very natural and engaging way.
It's definitely one of the better books out there and I highly recommend it.
This book is extremely well written. The author does an amazing job weaving this epic story of passion, infidelity, punishment, tragedy, and love. Jackie Kennedy throws us into one of the most taboo issues of all, cheating on your spouse and doing it with your spouse's twin! I think one of the things that made this book so well done is that the author didn't shy away from the ugliness of it all. If she was serving up infidelity, then she was going to grab us by the scruff of our collar and give us every glorious detail, the good and the bad.
In the beginning of the book, there's definitely a voyeuristic feel to it as we're getting an intimate look at a forbidden, shame filled situation. I was actually really curious on "What would make this author want to write this?" It's so different from nearly all romance/love/sex/whatever stories I've read. There's no happy, happy joy joy feelings here as the two leads come together (unless you're into that sort of thing, I guess). As the reader, though, this shifted from the voyeuristic, "I shouldn't want them to be together" to a "of course, they should be together!" sentiment as the book progresses. The uncomfortable feelings went away I think because, after awhile, the affair feels justified. The author makes it clear that Celeste and Amy should've been together from the beginning in the first place and their love and relationship is superior and more authentic than Amy's marriage to Josh, no matter how good of a guy Josh is.
Just like her characters, the author takes us through the ringer for enjoying it, though. There's a lot of tragedy and darkness in this book that doesn't completely go away, even with a happy ending.
What I didn't love: Celeste was a bully in the first half of the book. For every seduction scene Amy either said "No" or set a boundary. Each time, Celeste pushed past it until Amy buckled. When Amy held to one of her limits, which was she wanted to reserve sleeping for Josh, Celeste became passive aggressive. How much more powerful would it have been for Amy to protest and then meet Celeste on her own terms, climb into Celeste's bed to sleep rather than Celeste being spiteful so Amy gives in? I would've been a much more satisfied reader if Amy initially protests, Celeste backs off and then Amy can't help herself. This constant pushing completely turned me off and is the one thing that made me feel creepy. In a book filled with taboo and darkness, that's saying a lot. Later on in the book, when one of the major plot twists occurs, Celeste changes this dynamic and backs off until Amy comes to her. Was this intentional? Eh, I don't know. I do know, at least I felt more sympathetic to Celeste's character in the second half of the book.
So many comments have already been made on this story so I'll just hit some highlights:
To concur with others, the sex scenes were extremely hot and steamy and well written.
There are so many characters in the book and the author does a lot of perspective changes where we get into each of their heads but it was so well done, I was never confused, never jarred, or felt it held the book down. The same can be said about the flashback scenes.
Dialogue, description, narrative, sex scenes, etc are all written in a very natural and engaging way.
It's definitely one of the better books out there and I highly recommend it.
August 30, 2013
Dr Celeste Cameron is used to working in a war zone. Danger is no stranger to her. On Celeste’s return to America from Somalia after a particularly harrowing experience, Celeste meets Amy, her twin brother Josh’s fiancée. The two women don’t exactly hit it off right away.
When Celeste and Amy begin to spend time together, it’s apparent there is an attraction between them.The feelings Amy evokes in Celeste are far more dangerous to her well being than working in the war zone. Amy is beginning to feel the same, but is in complete denial. No matter how she feels, it may not be enough for her to cancel her wedding to Josh. So, what will the two women do?
This well written book is an absolute blockbuster. There is a little bit of everything in it. Humor, a touch of the supernatural, heartbreak, angst, yes, a lot of angst, but at the same time as it’s heart aching, it’s heart warming and gives out hope. It is also hot and sexy, steaming hot in fact. It’s painful to read at times, but as soon as I thought, please, no more pain, I was actually laughing out loud. So, there is an excellent balance between the pain and the laughter.
The whole book is an intense and powerfully written masterpiece. Jackie Kennedy writes about extremely sensitive issues with sensitivity and understanding for the persons suffering .
This book is a real jewel in the crown of the lesbian fiction world, a true gem.
The two characters, Celeste and Amy are both multidimensional and are so obviously made for each other. They are true soul mates in every sense. Unfortunately, their lives are far from easy. There is a wonderful wealth of minor characters, some playing larger parts than others, but equally as engaging as Amy and Celeste and absolutely essential to the progression of the story. All of these characters are so outstanding, that I’m still thinking about them over a week after finishing the book.
Although this is a long book, I wanted more. I definitely want to know more about Celeste and Amy and their lives.
I don’t say this often, but every now and then I read a book from a new author and I just know she will be a big hit. Jackie Kennedy is now on my to buy list for the future. This book is in my to be read again folder. Hopefully, very soon.
When Celeste and Amy begin to spend time together, it’s apparent there is an attraction between them.The feelings Amy evokes in Celeste are far more dangerous to her well being than working in the war zone. Amy is beginning to feel the same, but is in complete denial. No matter how she feels, it may not be enough for her to cancel her wedding to Josh. So, what will the two women do?
This well written book is an absolute blockbuster. There is a little bit of everything in it. Humor, a touch of the supernatural, heartbreak, angst, yes, a lot of angst, but at the same time as it’s heart aching, it’s heart warming and gives out hope. It is also hot and sexy, steaming hot in fact. It’s painful to read at times, but as soon as I thought, please, no more pain, I was actually laughing out loud. So, there is an excellent balance between the pain and the laughter.
The whole book is an intense and powerfully written masterpiece. Jackie Kennedy writes about extremely sensitive issues with sensitivity and understanding for the persons suffering .
This book is a real jewel in the crown of the lesbian fiction world, a true gem.
The two characters, Celeste and Amy are both multidimensional and are so obviously made for each other. They are true soul mates in every sense. Unfortunately, their lives are far from easy. There is a wonderful wealth of minor characters, some playing larger parts than others, but equally as engaging as Amy and Celeste and absolutely essential to the progression of the story. All of these characters are so outstanding, that I’m still thinking about them over a week after finishing the book.
Although this is a long book, I wanted more. I definitely want to know more about Celeste and Amy and their lives.
I don’t say this often, but every now and then I read a book from a new author and I just know she will be a big hit. Jackie Kennedy is now on my to buy list for the future. This book is in my to be read again folder. Hopefully, very soon.
October 15, 2022
5 stars. Damn. This book was emotionally taxing and I think I need to go take a nap now or something. My poor heart has been through it! This was just the dramatic, angst filled, forbidden love story that I wanted. There is a HEA but is a brutal journey to get there.
Celeste falls in love and has an affair with her twin brother’s wife, Amy. Yep. Now imagine all of the delicious angst and multiply times ten. It was this book.
Kennedy’s writing is beautiful and simplistic which made for a very engaging and addicting read. I liked the characters Celeste and Amy a lot. The chemistry between them was so intense that it was kinda scary at moments. They love hard and all of the shit they went through was tough to read, especially the big thing that happens in the second half of the book.
There’s a lot of push/pull, time jumps, and it’s all so melodramatic and I loved every single moment. The author really made the plot work well for me and had me hooked from beginning to end.
Celeste falls in love and has an affair with her twin brother’s wife, Amy. Yep. Now imagine all of the delicious angst and multiply times ten. It was this book.
Kennedy’s writing is beautiful and simplistic which made for a very engaging and addicting read. I liked the characters Celeste and Amy a lot. The chemistry between them was so intense that it was kinda scary at moments. They love hard and all of the shit they went through was tough to read, especially the big thing that happens in the second half of the book.
There’s a lot of push/pull, time jumps, and it’s all so melodramatic and I loved every single moment. The author really made the plot work well for me and had me hooked from beginning to end.
May 15, 2019
This is the best lez-book I've read since the masterpiece Carol by Patricia Highsmith.
I really enjoyed the depth of the characters, the flashbacks were really well placed, never a dull moment. The angst was so well delivered, for example when Amy's mother walks on them I really felt the tension and angst I felt in many Highsmith's books.
I hope Ms Kennedy will publish a new book, or maybe another book with Amy and Celeste life as a couple :)
I really enjoyed the depth of the characters, the flashbacks were really well placed, never a dull moment. The angst was so well delivered, for example when Amy's mother walks on them I really felt the tension and angst I felt in many Highsmith's books.
I hope Ms Kennedy will publish a new book, or maybe another book with Amy and Celeste life as a couple :)
November 21, 2015
I actually pushed back in reading this book due to the cover. I thought it was your typical book with just sex. Anyway, I can't say that this is one of my favorites, but I enjoyed the journey with Celeste & Amy. Aside from the main couple's chemistry, the supporting characters were also fun to get to know.
February 20, 2014
I enjoyed the book as much I had when I read it as a free fiction. Adultery theme.
April 1, 2023
Hugely underrated.
One of my faves.
I love revisiting it.
One of my faves.
I love revisiting it.
December 26, 2014
I was initially a little bit skeptical buying the book as there were only a handful of review on amazon. I was pleasantly surprised and I've finished the book in one sitting.
When I start reading the book, I thought.. gosh, the chemistry and attraction between the two characters were already so intense at 14% of the book, how will rest of the story carry out? I was certainly not disappointed. Throughout the book, you'll see the ups and downs that both Amy and Celeste gone through; one who is consistently in denial and the other one consistently pouring love to the other. With the story spanning over a period of almost 10 years, it adds depth to what the women are feeling and in different stages of life. I only wished they didn't have to go through so much to be together.
I'm absolutely in love with Celeste after the fiction. I only wished the author has given the audience more glimpse to her internal world.
When I start reading the book, I thought.. gosh, the chemistry and attraction between the two characters were already so intense at 14% of the book, how will rest of the story carry out? I was certainly not disappointed. Throughout the book, you'll see the ups and downs that both Amy and Celeste gone through; one who is consistently in denial and the other one consistently pouring love to the other. With the story spanning over a period of almost 10 years, it adds depth to what the women are feeling and in different stages of life. I only wished they didn't have to go through so much to be together.
I'm absolutely in love with Celeste after the fiction. I only wished the author has given the audience more glimpse to her internal world.
May 11, 2014
Wow what a ride. This book runs a gambit of emotions. On a few occasions I thought I might give up on the story, but so worth seeing it through. Kennedy really does a great job with the infidelity and the intense attraction that will not go away no matter how much time, distance or denial the characters employ. People are imperfect, I like how we got to see all the fallout and consequences from the choices that Celeste and Amy made along the way and how it not only affected them but the people around them. The book is well written, the characters are strong and well developed, and it is a real and honest look love. Good read, I wasn't disappointed.
July 2, 2022
My list of hated books isn't long, but this one sits there, comfortably. Now, before I get hated on, let me explain why.
The story goes like this: there is Amy, who is happily dating Josh. All of that changes when his doctor twin sister, Celeste Cameron, enters the scene after spending several years away in the war zone. The two women are immediately attracted to each other, but Amy is dead set on marrying Josh, causing conflict and denial to arise.
Normally, I'd be tiring my throat from screeching, because this book sounds just like cup of tea. But imagine my disappointment when it was not.
The initial appeal was physical attraction, of course. There's nothing wrong with this—nothing at all—but the fact that the book was filled with this made me want to tear my hair out. Where was the substance? Where was the allure? What drew these two women together, apart from their bodily longings? The sex in this book wasborderline copious. I don't hate those scenes particularly, but it was so repetitive to the point I felt as though banging each other was their entire personality. They barely chatted about their interests, and as far as I can remember they were: Vietnamese architecture, art, food, and music. Nice.
Celeste had these two friends, Alex and his partner, Colin. At first, Alex was fun, and was my favorite character in the book. But as time passed, he became a little... annoying. I know, it's normal for people to bug one another, but jeez, he had me teetering on the edge of insanity.
I had such high hopes, but I grew despondent every time I flipped a page. I expected a slow burn; one that was unhurried and hot, but this book did not deliver. I got angst, though, and a shit ton of smut. Fluff and slow burn > smut.
The story goes like this: there is Amy, who is happily dating Josh. All of that changes when his doctor twin sister, Celeste Cameron, enters the scene after spending several years away in the war zone. The two women are immediately attracted to each other, but Amy is dead set on marrying Josh, causing conflict and denial to arise.
Normally, I'd be tiring my throat from screeching, because this book sounds just like cup of tea. But imagine my disappointment when it was not.
The initial appeal was physical attraction, of course. There's nothing wrong with this—nothing at all—but the fact that the book was filled with this made me want to tear my hair out. Where was the substance? Where was the allure? What drew these two women together, apart from their bodily longings? The sex in this book was
Celeste had these two friends, Alex and his partner, Colin. At first, Alex was fun, and was my favorite character in the book. But as time passed, he became a little... annoying. I know, it's normal for people to bug one another, but jeez, he had me teetering on the edge of insanity.
I had such high hopes, but I grew despondent every time I flipped a page. I expected a slow burn; one that was unhurried and hot, but this book did not deliver. I got angst, though, and a shit ton of smut. Fluff and slow burn > smut.
July 6, 2015
I’m giving this book my highest recommendation, not because it’s perfect…far from it…but because the author had the guts to write it and it’s so worth thinking about. Basically, this book isn't about failed relationships, adultery, or lesbians. This book is about good people getting caught up in a situation almost beyond their control. Others would neatly label as weakness, selfishness, failure to honor commitment or accept consequences, but that scenario is just too simple to explain what happens in this book (or sometimes in life). The sexy, lesbian adultery angle is the vehicle for exploring this.
The title refers to the protagonist (Amy) refusing to accept that she may be in love with two people, but in lust with only one. The consequences of that are huge since she also loves her children, family, her LIFE and, most importantly, the moral person she views herself to be.
All in all though, I loved this story. I don’t care about the imperfections. I do care that Ms. Kennedy hasn’t published anything else. That is our great loss. Happy reading, xo
The title refers to the protagonist (Amy) refusing to accept that she may be in love with two people, but in lust with only one. The consequences of that are huge since she also loves her children, family, her LIFE and, most importantly, the moral person she views herself to be.
All in all though, I loved this story. I don’t care about the imperfections. I do care that Ms. Kennedy hasn’t published anything else. That is our great loss. Happy reading, xo
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