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Meant for Her
Photographer Sierra Stratton views the world through a lens all her own. She has an uncanny sense about people, something that often causes her trouble. When she meets the sexy and brooding Evan Dorsey, her intuition tells her he’s suffering, and she wants to be the one to help him.
Evan isn’t open to help from anyone, however. His focus is on his Major League career and making himself as marketable as possible for his upcoming free agency. He plans to ride out the season in Atlanta and then sign with another team, away from the painful memories that haunt him.
Someone’s eager to send him on his way, too. Between anonymous threats and equipment sabotage, it’s clear he’s earned himself an enemy along the way. To him, it’s one more sign that he’s right to move on.
But Sierra threatens his conviction. Her contagious smile proves hard to resist, as does her kiss. She tempts him in ways he never anticipated, making him question his plans for the first time. If he’s not careful, she might just convince him that he’s meant for her.
Evan isn’t open to help from anyone, however. His focus is on his Major League career and making himself as marketable as possible for his upcoming free agency. He plans to ride out the season in Atlanta and then sign with another team, away from the painful memories that haunt him.
Someone’s eager to send him on his way, too. Between anonymous threats and equipment sabotage, it’s clear he’s earned himself an enemy along the way. To him, it’s one more sign that he’s right to move on.
But Sierra threatens his conviction. Her contagious smile proves hard to resist, as does her kiss. She tempts him in ways he never anticipated, making him question his plans for the first time. If he’s not careful, she might just convince him that he’s meant for her.
337 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 15, 2013
21 people are currently reading
663 people want to read
About the author
Raine Thomas
44 books982 followersRaine Thomas is the award-winning author of more than 20 bestselling romances spanning contemporary romance, Sci-Fi romance, and YA fantasy romance. She's a hopeless romantic with a background in the fields of mental health and wedding planning...two areas that intersect far more than one would think. She's also a book fiend, grammar nerd, and editing Red Queen, depending on who you ask.
Be sure to follow Raine on BookBub (https://www.bookbub.com/profile/raine...) to be among the first to learn of any sales, and hop over to her website for your first free read!
Be sure to follow Raine on BookBub (https://www.bookbub.com/profile/raine...) to be among the first to learn of any sales, and hop over to her website for your first free read!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 81 reviews
October 29, 2013
Meant For Her is a New Adult stand-alone spinoff of Raine Thomas' For Everly (which was her debut NA novel). As with For Everly, this book immerses us into the world of romance, and baseball. (Two things that rank high in my world!)
This book starts off with a glimpse into Evan Dorsey's perspective. Even though he is supposed to be helping his good friend Cole celebrate one of the happiest moments of his life, Evan has a hard time reigning in the happiness due to that fact that he's recently experienced a tragic loss. Just when Evan thinks to try to make his escape, he is approached by a woman who has caught his eye. She captivates Evan with her dimples, and cheerful demeanor while finding that she unexpectedly brings a comfort that he did not think he'd be able to find.
Evan and this woman share a tender moment on an outdoor terrace at the wedding, and then they part ways without Evan having an opportunity to get the girl's name. Even though he doesn't know who she is, or where to find her, Evan discovers that she has left an impression on him, and it will take months before their paths cross again.
As if by divine intervention, Evan becomes reunited with his mystery woman: Sierra Stratton. Sierra is a photographer by trade, and also just so happens to be a Property Manager at the apartment building that Evan is looking into potentially leasing. Their reunion helps to lay the groundwork for what becomes the start of a dysfunctionally functional friendship. There is chemistry between the two, but for Evan, there are emotional hurdles that are getting in the way. Even though Sierra finds herself emotionally and romantically attached to Evan, she is also aware that for him, it would need to be a slow but steady road to get him to open up his heart. But Sierra seems to be attuned to Evan's emotional needs, and always knows the right things to do and say to help Cole get through his "rough patches".
Cole
Sierra
Sierra is a go-getter. She sees something she wants, and she takes action. She doesn't stand idly by. She makes her intentions with Evan very clear early on, and throughout this story, she realizes that she has to to approach her relationship with Evan with caution and strategy. She knows just how much to hard to push him at times, to help him break down the walls around his heart. But even though she seems to always know just what to do or say to help him take steps in the right direction, she also finds that at times, she is second guessing her methods. Sometimes, it's two steps forward, three steps back. But she's in it to win it, and she approaches this challenge with confidence, and she is determined to help Evan through it all.
This book has romance, emotions (aka The Feels), HOT ATHLETES (Baseball! DROOL), suspense, plot twists, and steamy scenes. There's never a dull moment, and you'll find that it's hard to put down. The characters are very well written, and I found that I became very invested in their story. I loved seeing the growth of Evan and Sierra's relationship in this book. I am not a huge fan of slow-building romance or even "insta-love", and it was great to find the balance in the progression of the emotional healing and romantic development. I found that I was immediately drawn in by Evan and Sierra's story, and I was rooting for them from start to finish.
This book starts off with a glimpse into Evan Dorsey's perspective. Even though he is supposed to be helping his good friend Cole celebrate one of the happiest moments of his life, Evan has a hard time reigning in the happiness due to that fact that he's recently experienced a tragic loss. Just when Evan thinks to try to make his escape, he is approached by a woman who has caught his eye. She captivates Evan with her dimples, and cheerful demeanor while finding that she unexpectedly brings a comfort that he did not think he'd be able to find.
"I can see that you're in a dark place," she said, touching the side of his face. It was the whisper of a caress, but it made his throat tighten. "It's good that you honor the memory of this person you loved. But don't be afraid to live now. What you've gone through, it will bring you where you need to be. Even the stars can't shine without darkness."
Evan and this woman share a tender moment on an outdoor terrace at the wedding, and then they part ways without Evan having an opportunity to get the girl's name. Even though he doesn't know who she is, or where to find her, Evan discovers that she has left an impression on him, and it will take months before their paths cross again.
As if by divine intervention, Evan becomes reunited with his mystery woman: Sierra Stratton. Sierra is a photographer by trade, and also just so happens to be a Property Manager at the apartment building that Evan is looking into potentially leasing. Their reunion helps to lay the groundwork for what becomes the start of a dysfunctionally functional friendship. There is chemistry between the two, but for Evan, there are emotional hurdles that are getting in the way. Even though Sierra finds herself emotionally and romantically attached to Evan, she is also aware that for him, it would need to be a slow but steady road to get him to open up his heart. But Sierra seems to be attuned to Evan's emotional needs, and always knows the right things to do and say to help Cole get through his "rough patches".
Cole
"It's just...when I feel like this, it's much easier to bring others down with me than it is to accept the hand that offers to pull me up."
Sierra
"Then you should acknowledge how much strength you show when you accept that hand."
"My Parents have always said that life isn't about waiting for the storm to pass," she told him. "It's about learning to dance in the rain."
Sierra is a go-getter. She sees something she wants, and she takes action. She doesn't stand idly by. She makes her intentions with Evan very clear early on, and throughout this story, she realizes that she has to to approach her relationship with Evan with caution and strategy. She knows just how much to hard to push him at times, to help him break down the walls around his heart. But even though she seems to always know just what to do or say to help him take steps in the right direction, she also finds that at times, she is second guessing her methods. Sometimes, it's two steps forward, three steps back. But she's in it to win it, and she approaches this challenge with confidence, and she is determined to help Evan through it all.
This book has romance, emotions (aka The Feels), HOT ATHLETES (Baseball! DROOL), suspense, plot twists, and steamy scenes. There's never a dull moment, and you'll find that it's hard to put down. The characters are very well written, and I found that I became very invested in their story. I loved seeing the growth of Evan and Sierra's relationship in this book. I am not a huge fan of slow-building romance or even "insta-love", and it was great to find the balance in the progression of the emotional healing and romantic development. I found that I was immediately drawn in by Evan and Sierra's story, and I was rooting for them from start to finish.
November 2, 2013
Review Originally Posted at: Book Freak
The last time I reviewed a book from Raine Thomas – it was my birthday. For Everly was a great birthday treat then – seeing the cover for MEANT FOR HER, I was expecting something as good as the first one. I wasn’t disappointed.
I have never met a more kindred spirit than Sierra Stratton. Have you ever met someone who sees all the good things in people?? Who is nice to everyone, even to strangers? Who is willing to hand out her heart in a silver platter without second thoughts?? Who is too naïve???? OMG. That is Sierra – I don’t know whether she was really, really nice or a pushover. People were taking advantage of her, and she was still nice to them! nevertheless, I have never met a person who is so sure about herself (in a good way) and very sure about her emotions as Sierra. She would give everything, and expect nothing in return… I wished that Evan would realized that before he’d lose Sierra.
If Sierra was a happy person, Evan was the complete opposite. Suffering from grief and loss of a loved one, he upped his barriers, preferred to be alone and doesn’t really form any bond with anyone. He preferred to move rather than stay in one place. He didn’t expect her to come to him one night at a party, and make all the darkness vanish in one smile. She was the breath of fresh air and the light he desperately needed at that moment. But when he tried to find her later, she was gone.
They once again met when he decided to play for Atlanta – a tribute for the person who had meant the world to him. But after one season, he was ready to move on to another team. Then the threats continue to come one after the other, wanting him out of town. This was probably one of the signs that he shouldn’t stay.
However, Sierra made it impossible for him to leave. All she wanted to do was to make him smile and for him to open up to her. She didn’t push, she didn’t force herself, she glided her way into his life, until she reached his heart. She was everything he never thought he wanted, and needed at that time. But for the first time in his entire life, someone made him want to stay.
I LOVE THIS BOOK!!! I enjoyed reading it. I love the characters, the dogs, the plot and the surprising twist – I didn’t see it coming. I was sooooo sure I had figure it all out, and then poof- I was wrong. It was amazing to see two very different people falling in love with each other. It wasn’t an easy journey for the two of them – especially for Evan, he had a lot of issues and problems on his plate but Sierra proved to be perfect for him, she was patient enough to wait until he was ready for her. And when he was – everything just fell into place. Sometimes being nice pays off too.
★ARC Copy was given in exchange for an honest review.★
February 27, 2014
Source: eARC for Honest Review from Lambe Books via NetGalley
Such a sweet story about love and hope.
Evan first meets an angelic pixie like character at Cole and Everly's wedding (From For Everly). She comes out of no where and shines a light into Evan's darkness that for the first time gives him hope. However once he realizes he wants to know more about her she disappears and he returns back to L.A.
While in L.A. Evan isn't happy and the only thing he wants is to live his mother's dream and play baseball for Atlanta. To make this happen he has to take things into his own hands. After personally meeting the owner Caroline and convincing her he is right for the team he moves to Atlanta only to find out his new neighbor happens to be the pixie herself Sierra.
Sierra is one of those characters that is so sweet and nice that people have a hard time with her because she's too nice. She reminds me a bit of Luna Lovegood from Harry Potter with her simple but pure being. Once Sierra meets Evan she knows she is meant for him but is just patient for him to realize it.
Evan is committed to shut out the world and swim in his darkness but Sierra and her meddling ways get him to see the light and for the first time in a long time want new things.
As Evan defenses get weaker and weaker he finally succumbs to the love and adoration of what Sierra can give and starts to heal. Even though there is a crack in the defense he has new worries with sabotage and threats against him which are helping him confirm that Atlanta isn't for him.
When those threats get to close to home he realizes that some losses are not what he wants. So her sets roots and fights for the light in his dark world.
There is something so sweet about Raine's writing but at the same time she pulls off the angst and suspense which gives a perfect combo for a story.
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Such a sweet story about love and hope.
Evan first meets an angelic pixie like character at Cole and Everly's wedding (From For Everly). She comes out of no where and shines a light into Evan's darkness that for the first time gives him hope. However once he realizes he wants to know more about her she disappears and he returns back to L.A.
While in L.A. Evan isn't happy and the only thing he wants is to live his mother's dream and play baseball for Atlanta. To make this happen he has to take things into his own hands. After personally meeting the owner Caroline and convincing her he is right for the team he moves to Atlanta only to find out his new neighbor happens to be the pixie herself Sierra.
Sierra is one of those characters that is so sweet and nice that people have a hard time with her because she's too nice. She reminds me a bit of Luna Lovegood from Harry Potter with her simple but pure being. Once Sierra meets Evan she knows she is meant for him but is just patient for him to realize it.
Evan is committed to shut out the world and swim in his darkness but Sierra and her meddling ways get him to see the light and for the first time in a long time want new things.
"...But don't be afraid to live now. What you've gone through, it will bring you where you need to be. Even the stars can't shine without darkness."
As Evan defenses get weaker and weaker he finally succumbs to the love and adoration of what Sierra can give and starts to heal. Even though there is a crack in the defense he has new worries with sabotage and threats against him which are helping him confirm that Atlanta isn't for him.
When those threats get to close to home he realizes that some losses are not what he wants. So her sets roots and fights for the light in his dark world.
There is something so sweet about Raine's writing but at the same time she pulls off the angst and suspense which gives a perfect combo for a story.
For more reviews, visit Live Read and Breathe
Like us on Facebook Live Read and Breathe Facebook
Follow along with Twitter Live Read and Breathe Twitter
May 20, 2016
4.5*****
eARC for Honest Review from Sinfonia dos Livros via NetGalley
My first book from Raine Thomas, and I loved it. Really did. Once I got caught in the story of Evan and Sierra (love this name), couldn't stop until I know if she was going to make him fall in love with her.
Evan Dorsey is a man who as his emotions locked away by the pain of losing his mother. He's a baseball player coming to play on the Atlanta team, his hometown, and it's in Atlanta that he is going to find that we can not hide love away, or friendship. Deep down inside, Evan is a caring man, full of love to give. In Cole's wedding is the first time that he caught a glimpse of Sierra. She came to him in such a natural way that it was hard for him to take her out of his head for many, many days, until he meets her again, in Atlanta, as his neighbour. Cool! He's the proud owner of two dogs: Beck and Miller.
Full Review
http://sinfoniadoslivros.blogspot.pt/...
eARC for Honest Review from Sinfonia dos Livros via NetGalley
My first book from Raine Thomas, and I loved it. Really did. Once I got caught in the story of Evan and Sierra (love this name), couldn't stop until I know if she was going to make him fall in love with her.
Evan Dorsey is a man who as his emotions locked away by the pain of losing his mother. He's a baseball player coming to play on the Atlanta team, his hometown, and it's in Atlanta that he is going to find that we can not hide love away, or friendship. Deep down inside, Evan is a caring man, full of love to give. In Cole's wedding is the first time that he caught a glimpse of Sierra. She came to him in such a natural way that it was hard for him to take her out of his head for many, many days, until he meets her again, in Atlanta, as his neighbour. Cool! He's the proud owner of two dogs: Beck and Miller.
Full Review
http://sinfoniadoslivros.blogspot.pt/...
September 25, 2013
Evan Dorsey is emotionally paralyzed by the death of his mother. He is leery of experiencing that kind of pain again, and isolated himself from getting close to anyone.
Sierra Stratton is a very intuitive woman who has learned to trust her instincts. From the moment Evan sees her he is captivated by her dimpled smile, and free spirit.
Sierra believes she and Evan are meant to be together, and sets about breaking down the walls he has set up against emotion.
After transfering to Atlanta to play baseball for the Braves Evan began recieving threatening messages. Someone wants him to leave, and is willing to take extreme measures to be sure he does. When Sierra is entangled into this sick game Evan faces losing everything he wasn't willing to admit he wanted.
Now for my take on this book. First let me say I loved For Everly, and I loved seeing Cole and Everly again in this book. Evan was a childhood friend of Cole's, and they have stayed close even into their professional ball careers.
Evan was wonderful. And Australian. With an accent. I would have read this book just to picture him.
While I did feel the relationship between Evan and Sierra lacked chemistry in the beginning, it picked up steam as the book progressed. Honestly, I believe that lack of connection was purposeful, because of Evan's efforts to be withdrawn.
There were times in the book were Evan made me angry and I wanted to slap him. That was necessary for his character to progress. I particularly liked when Everly gave him a gentle lecture to push him on the road to healing.
When the mystery portion of this book picked up steam I couldn't put it down. I read the entire book in one day. Now I'm only disappointed its finished. I love Raine's writing, and her descriptive language. I highly recommend this book.
Sierra Stratton is a very intuitive woman who has learned to trust her instincts. From the moment Evan sees her he is captivated by her dimpled smile, and free spirit.
Sierra believes she and Evan are meant to be together, and sets about breaking down the walls he has set up against emotion.
After transfering to Atlanta to play baseball for the Braves Evan began recieving threatening messages. Someone wants him to leave, and is willing to take extreme measures to be sure he does. When Sierra is entangled into this sick game Evan faces losing everything he wasn't willing to admit he wanted.
Now for my take on this book. First let me say I loved For Everly, and I loved seeing Cole and Everly again in this book. Evan was a childhood friend of Cole's, and they have stayed close even into their professional ball careers.
Evan was wonderful. And Australian. With an accent. I would have read this book just to picture him.
While I did feel the relationship between Evan and Sierra lacked chemistry in the beginning, it picked up steam as the book progressed. Honestly, I believe that lack of connection was purposeful, because of Evan's efforts to be withdrawn.
There were times in the book were Evan made me angry and I wanted to slap him. That was necessary for his character to progress. I particularly liked when Everly gave him a gentle lecture to push him on the road to healing.
When the mystery portion of this book picked up steam I couldn't put it down. I read the entire book in one day. Now I'm only disappointed its finished. I love Raine's writing, and her descriptive language. I highly recommend this book.
June 9, 2017
A solid 4.5/5. I found it really refreshing that Sierra was the one who had her life together so the development was focused more on Evan. Not that Sierra didn't have things to work on, she did. But I usually find in romances it's the heroine who has to have a total transformation. It was nice to have that slight reversal to me.
Regardless, they were a great pair and I loved the slow burning relationship between them.
Regardless, they were a great pair and I loved the slow burning relationship between them.
October 17, 2013
I am such a huge fan of Author Raine Thomas! Her Daughters Of Saraqael series is still one of my favorite Fantasy series to date! Now I must say that I love Ms. Thomas New Adult titles as well. Meant For Her was fantastic!
The story follows very sexy baseball player Evan Dorsey, who desiring to fulfill the longtime wish of his mother, who had recently passed; Evan negotiated a spot on the Atlanta team, playing alongside with his long time buddy Cole parker. ( He was the hottie from Ms. Thomas first New Adult title For Everly:O)
Evan’s plan was to play that one season and then move on, actually this has been Evan’s M.O. for a long while, not staying anywhere very long, and forming no lasting attachments. But then he discovered the mysterious and free spirited young woman he’d met previously, was the niece of his new team owner!
Sierra had always been aware of Evan, her family firmly meshed in baseball–even her grandmother, whose greatest wish was to have Evan Dorsey sign her cleavage! (I like Grandma! ) So Evan has always been someone of interest to Sierra, but when seeing him at a wedding, sickened in spirit and hurting (His mother had recently died). Sierra reached out to him, to encourage him and to offer him comfort, not even telling him her name. But she knew from that first meeting, there was a connection between the two.
But she was still surprised to see him as a member of her aunt’s team. Things heat up as Evan becomes her neighbor in her apartment building. He at first rejects her attempts at friendship and at being drawn out. He desired to play sports and remain locked in his apartment. His preference was to remain untangled, believing otherwise brought pain. But Sierra’s lovely spirit, kindness, insightfulness and care soon draws him out. As the two become closer, there are others with dangerous and negative desires and plans that threaten to separate the fragile love that Sierra and Evan were just discovering.
Oh my goodness I loved this book! Evan, with his Australian accent, is so very sexy! I really became a fan of his, because of the depth he exhibited. He felt deeply, and was passionate and I liked that about him. There was an incident in the story where he confronted a teammate who had threatened Sierra, he was fierce. In my mind I saw a young man that had incredible strength of character and was a little wild underneath! He was a risk taker, that was shown when he spoke with team owner Caroline on his own, even though it wasn’t the norm, to obtain his goal, to play for the Atlanta team. He drew me in, with that barely controlled… and a touch of recklessness in his behavior. I liked that edge. Now I was a little upset with him, when the two became close and his fear kicked in regarding the emotional attachment, how he was to Sierra! Yes, although he has made my list for favorite book boyfriends, I was a little miffed! But he knew he was wrong, he regretted trying to push her away, so I felt actually this was a honest reaction after such a great lost…and I was glad to see the depth in this character.
But I will say the character who touched me the most was Sierra, she was simply one of the most beautiful characters I have read up until now. She had such a honest, genuine tenderness about her. Although her Sixth Sense gave her a little insight into others, a large part were her observations and incredible generous heart. I liked her funky style, slightly bohemian and free. She was so good with Evan, patient and kind regarding his inner suffering. But not only Evan, but others such as the asst. Camilla who lied and stole not only Sierra’s ideas, but made her look bad in front of her boss. Again, I became irritated and I sided with Evan, when he said she was too nice and that the girl should be confronted, which Sierra did but at the right time for her. This made the difference in the long run and as with most Sierra did work out for the best.
The two of them, as a couple was incredible. Oh my goodness, when they finally came together physically, it was an extremely intense and steamy encounter!
(Whew! Had me sweating a little, LOL)
Meant for Her was well written and well paced story. It was laced with humor and several twists and turns…plus the ending surprised me!
I FULLY recommend for lovers of Contemporary Romance and Suspense! (Recommend best for Adults)
The story follows very sexy baseball player Evan Dorsey, who desiring to fulfill the longtime wish of his mother, who had recently passed; Evan negotiated a spot on the Atlanta team, playing alongside with his long time buddy Cole parker. ( He was the hottie from Ms. Thomas first New Adult title For Everly:O)
Evan’s plan was to play that one season and then move on, actually this has been Evan’s M.O. for a long while, not staying anywhere very long, and forming no lasting attachments. But then he discovered the mysterious and free spirited young woman he’d met previously, was the niece of his new team owner!
Sierra had always been aware of Evan, her family firmly meshed in baseball–even her grandmother, whose greatest wish was to have Evan Dorsey sign her cleavage! (I like Grandma! ) So Evan has always been someone of interest to Sierra, but when seeing him at a wedding, sickened in spirit and hurting (His mother had recently died). Sierra reached out to him, to encourage him and to offer him comfort, not even telling him her name. But she knew from that first meeting, there was a connection between the two.
But she was still surprised to see him as a member of her aunt’s team. Things heat up as Evan becomes her neighbor in her apartment building. He at first rejects her attempts at friendship and at being drawn out. He desired to play sports and remain locked in his apartment. His preference was to remain untangled, believing otherwise brought pain. But Sierra’s lovely spirit, kindness, insightfulness and care soon draws him out. As the two become closer, there are others with dangerous and negative desires and plans that threaten to separate the fragile love that Sierra and Evan were just discovering.
Oh my goodness I loved this book! Evan, with his Australian accent, is so very sexy! I really became a fan of his, because of the depth he exhibited. He felt deeply, and was passionate and I liked that about him. There was an incident in the story where he confronted a teammate who had threatened Sierra, he was fierce. In my mind I saw a young man that had incredible strength of character and was a little wild underneath! He was a risk taker, that was shown when he spoke with team owner Caroline on his own, even though it wasn’t the norm, to obtain his goal, to play for the Atlanta team. He drew me in, with that barely controlled… and a touch of recklessness in his behavior. I liked that edge. Now I was a little upset with him, when the two became close and his fear kicked in regarding the emotional attachment, how he was to Sierra! Yes, although he has made my list for favorite book boyfriends, I was a little miffed! But he knew he was wrong, he regretted trying to push her away, so I felt actually this was a honest reaction after such a great lost…and I was glad to see the depth in this character.
But I will say the character who touched me the most was Sierra, she was simply one of the most beautiful characters I have read up until now. She had such a honest, genuine tenderness about her. Although her Sixth Sense gave her a little insight into others, a large part were her observations and incredible generous heart. I liked her funky style, slightly bohemian and free. She was so good with Evan, patient and kind regarding his inner suffering. But not only Evan, but others such as the asst. Camilla who lied and stole not only Sierra’s ideas, but made her look bad in front of her boss. Again, I became irritated and I sided with Evan, when he said she was too nice and that the girl should be confronted, which Sierra did but at the right time for her. This made the difference in the long run and as with most Sierra did work out for the best.
The two of them, as a couple was incredible. Oh my goodness, when they finally came together physically, it was an extremely intense and steamy encounter!
(Whew! Had me sweating a little, LOL)
Meant for Her was well written and well paced story. It was laced with humor and several twists and turns…plus the ending surprised me!
I FULLY recommend for lovers of Contemporary Romance and Suspense! (Recommend best for Adults)
September 28, 2013
INITIAL THOUGHTS
Approaching this book I was exited to learn more about Cole and Everly as well as meeting the new characters too. My thoughts were Would I like this book as much as For Everly?
At 16% done with Meant for Her: New characters of Sierran and Evan Dorsey an old friend of Cole's coming to play on the atlanta team immediately taken under Baseball Boss Caroline's protective wing. Also enjoying the catch up with Cole & Everly and their married life & pregnancy too.
MY REVIEW
I received an e-arc copy of this book from the Author Raine Thomas free in exchange for my honest review.
The cover I'd say depicts the two new main characters of Sierra (with the colourful streaks in her hair), Baseball Boss, Caroline's niece and Evan Dorsey a Baseball player. They are in a tender looking pose about to kiss, and there's the baseball glove also on the cover. The byline which pre-fixes the title "If he's not careful, she might just convince him that he's . . " and then the title Meant For Her. I love it!
So would the cover make me pick the book up in a book store? I think I would yes, though I admit to not buying many "romance-y" novels.
So the main characters in this book are Sierra, and Evan. Evan is in a dark place having recently lost his mother. He was extremely close to his mother being as she was his only loving parent. Her dream was to see Evan play baseball for Atlanta.
Evan first meets Sierra though he doesn't know her name or who she is at Cole & Everly's wedding reception.
Evan later goes to speak to Caroline wanting to play for Atlanta, which comes at perfect timing as third baseman Matthew Jensen has been injured so cannot play.
Caroline organise's for Evan to view a flat in one of the rental properties she owns. That' how he meet's Sierra again as she works for her Aunt showing the rental homes to prospective tenants. Evan feels drawn to Sierra, but immediately shuts down as after losing his mother he doesn't want to ever go through losing someone he loves again. Sierra is very patient and loving with Evan even though at times he is openly rude and harsh in the things he says to her. I don't want to give anymore plot details as this really is a fantastic read that you should discover for yourselves. I will say I loved the parts where Evan tries to impress Sierra and when he lets his emotions free the things he say's and does for Sierra are so romantic, but he can be so dense and obtuse in his actions.
During his time playing for Atlanta Evan is being targeted by what seems to be an angry fan who has a vendetta against him. Evan doesn't take it too seriously until Sierra is threatened. . but will he be in time to save Sierra? So who is the "angry fan" with the vendetta against Evan? Do Evan and Sierra get together? Will Evan stay playing for Atlanta?
I really enjoyed the book, Raine Thomas writes so well and takes you through a whole range of feelings and emotions. You end up really routing for Evan, and his turbulent relationship with Sierra. I loved the ending.
So did I enjoy the book? Yes, I really found it a pleasurable, totally enjoyable read. Would I recommend the book? Yes, though you don't need to have read For Everly first, the sections on Everly & Cole will make more sense if you have done so. Would I read another book in this series? As I have mentioned before Meant For Her & For Everly are actually stand alone reads though they contain some of the same characters. Having said that I would love to read more about some of the other characters in the books too. Would I read other books by Raine Thomas? I already have and yes I'd love to read even more of Raine's books too.
Approaching this book I was exited to learn more about Cole and Everly as well as meeting the new characters too. My thoughts were Would I like this book as much as For Everly?
At 16% done with Meant for Her: New characters of Sierran and Evan Dorsey an old friend of Cole's coming to play on the atlanta team immediately taken under Baseball Boss Caroline's protective wing. Also enjoying the catch up with Cole & Everly and their married life & pregnancy too.
MY REVIEW
I received an e-arc copy of this book from the Author Raine Thomas free in exchange for my honest review.
The cover I'd say depicts the two new main characters of Sierra (with the colourful streaks in her hair), Baseball Boss, Caroline's niece and Evan Dorsey a Baseball player. They are in a tender looking pose about to kiss, and there's the baseball glove also on the cover. The byline which pre-fixes the title "If he's not careful, she might just convince him that he's . . " and then the title Meant For Her. I love it!
So would the cover make me pick the book up in a book store? I think I would yes, though I admit to not buying many "romance-y" novels.
So the main characters in this book are Sierra, and Evan. Evan is in a dark place having recently lost his mother. He was extremely close to his mother being as she was his only loving parent. Her dream was to see Evan play baseball for Atlanta.
Evan first meets Sierra though he doesn't know her name or who she is at Cole & Everly's wedding reception.
Evan later goes to speak to Caroline wanting to play for Atlanta, which comes at perfect timing as third baseman Matthew Jensen has been injured so cannot play.
Caroline organise's for Evan to view a flat in one of the rental properties she owns. That' how he meet's Sierra again as she works for her Aunt showing the rental homes to prospective tenants. Evan feels drawn to Sierra, but immediately shuts down as after losing his mother he doesn't want to ever go through losing someone he loves again. Sierra is very patient and loving with Evan even though at times he is openly rude and harsh in the things he says to her. I don't want to give anymore plot details as this really is a fantastic read that you should discover for yourselves. I will say I loved the parts where Evan tries to impress Sierra and when he lets his emotions free the things he say's and does for Sierra are so romantic, but he can be so dense and obtuse in his actions.
During his time playing for Atlanta Evan is being targeted by what seems to be an angry fan who has a vendetta against him. Evan doesn't take it too seriously until Sierra is threatened. . but will he be in time to save Sierra? So who is the "angry fan" with the vendetta against Evan? Do Evan and Sierra get together? Will Evan stay playing for Atlanta?
I really enjoyed the book, Raine Thomas writes so well and takes you through a whole range of feelings and emotions. You end up really routing for Evan, and his turbulent relationship with Sierra. I loved the ending.
So did I enjoy the book? Yes, I really found it a pleasurable, totally enjoyable read. Would I recommend the book? Yes, though you don't need to have read For Everly first, the sections on Everly & Cole will make more sense if you have done so. Would I read another book in this series? As I have mentioned before Meant For Her & For Everly are actually stand alone reads though they contain some of the same characters. Having said that I would love to read more about some of the other characters in the books too. Would I read other books by Raine Thomas? I already have and yes I'd love to read even more of Raine's books too.
November 3, 2013
If you read and enjoyed For Everly, you will definitely enjoy this book as well. Although this is a follow-up book with many of the same characters, it can definitely stand alone. It’s a book with some romance, some mystery and some wonderful characters who will draw you in from the very beginning.
The first time Sierra meets Evan she knows instinctively that he’s sad and broken. She also knows that she wants to help him get through the darkness he’s facing. So, when fate brings him to her city to play baseball for the local team, Sierra finally gets her chance. The story then follows the ups and downs each of them faces as they try to move forward. These two characters complement each other very well. Where one was strong, the other had a weakness, where one was sure, the other was confused, where one had roots, the other didn’t plan to stick around. But this isn’t a case of opposites attracting, it’s a case of patiently waiting for the right time…and maybe pushing just a little bit when necessary.
I anticipated loving these characters because, to be honest, I’ve enjoyed every character that Raine Thomas has ever written. No matter which of her series I read, I’m guaranteed to have characters with depth, strong emotions, and who just “feel real”. And, of course, I was not disappointed. Sierra is a strong, loyal character. She has a sixth sense about people and can read them fairly easily. She’s caring and intelligent and I’d definitely want her as a friend. Evan, the sexy, strong, Australian has just faced his mother’s death and is, therefore, more insecure about feelings and relationships. In general, he’s looking to keep to himself. The push and pull of the story (and the fact that it’s written in alternating POV’s) had me both loving him and feeling frustrated by him at the same time. Of course, my love for him had the upper hand at the end. Oh, and I can’t forget to mention their chemistry… strong in the beginning and absolutely explodes as we get farther into the book.
This was a great read. The story captured my imagination, the characters moved right into my heart and, as always, the writing style was creative, smooth and wonderful…can’t get better than that!
The first time Sierra meets Evan she knows instinctively that he’s sad and broken. She also knows that she wants to help him get through the darkness he’s facing. So, when fate brings him to her city to play baseball for the local team, Sierra finally gets her chance. The story then follows the ups and downs each of them faces as they try to move forward. These two characters complement each other very well. Where one was strong, the other had a weakness, where one was sure, the other was confused, where one had roots, the other didn’t plan to stick around. But this isn’t a case of opposites attracting, it’s a case of patiently waiting for the right time…and maybe pushing just a little bit when necessary.
I anticipated loving these characters because, to be honest, I’ve enjoyed every character that Raine Thomas has ever written. No matter which of her series I read, I’m guaranteed to have characters with depth, strong emotions, and who just “feel real”. And, of course, I was not disappointed. Sierra is a strong, loyal character. She has a sixth sense about people and can read them fairly easily. She’s caring and intelligent and I’d definitely want her as a friend. Evan, the sexy, strong, Australian has just faced his mother’s death and is, therefore, more insecure about feelings and relationships. In general, he’s looking to keep to himself. The push and pull of the story (and the fact that it’s written in alternating POV’s) had me both loving him and feeling frustrated by him at the same time. Of course, my love for him had the upper hand at the end. Oh, and I can’t forget to mention their chemistry… strong in the beginning and absolutely explodes as we get farther into the book.
This was a great read. The story captured my imagination, the characters moved right into my heart and, as always, the writing style was creative, smooth and wonderful…can’t get better than that!
October 20, 2013
First I have to say that Raine is an incredible author. She can weave a story like no ones business and capture you right from the start. So after reading For Everly I asked Raine if she was going to continue with a series she said yes and I was so happy. First I love baseball it is America's favorite past time but there is something about watching baseball I love. I grew up with cousins who played so I went to almost every game and of course I love watching my Boston Red Sox's play. But there was more to it for me when I was reading Meant For Her and that is Raines hidden message about love, hope and moving on from pain hit me like a ton of bricks.
Sierra loves taking pictures. She can see the world through her lens and what she sees is their inner soul. When she is taking pictures of people she can see their souls through the lens. When people are photographed and they don't know they are being photographed you get to see the raw and nakedness of them. If they are feeling pain or sadness or stressed it shows right through onto the picture and Sierra loves that.
So when Sierra meets Evan she knows deep down inside he is hurting and she wants to help him. Evan has just lost his mother and he is trying so hard to hide the pain but he can't. Evan is glad he has his mind of baseball and playing for his new team to distract him from what he is feeling. Then he meets Sierra and something in him wants to open up but he is afraid of getting hurt so he keeps all his feelings to himself until Sierra breaks through those walls.
Plus if things could not get worse Evan is dealing with some strange things happening to him. Someone is out to hurt him and he is not sure who it is or why but strange things have been happening to him and he is not sure what to do about. Will Evan be okay or will the person who wants to hurt him succeed? Will Evan open up to Sierra and let her in? Raine thank you for this beautiful story that I will read over and over again!
Sierra loves taking pictures. She can see the world through her lens and what she sees is their inner soul. When she is taking pictures of people she can see their souls through the lens. When people are photographed and they don't know they are being photographed you get to see the raw and nakedness of them. If they are feeling pain or sadness or stressed it shows right through onto the picture and Sierra loves that.
So when Sierra meets Evan she knows deep down inside he is hurting and she wants to help him. Evan has just lost his mother and he is trying so hard to hide the pain but he can't. Evan is glad he has his mind of baseball and playing for his new team to distract him from what he is feeling. Then he meets Sierra and something in him wants to open up but he is afraid of getting hurt so he keeps all his feelings to himself until Sierra breaks through those walls.
Plus if things could not get worse Evan is dealing with some strange things happening to him. Someone is out to hurt him and he is not sure who it is or why but strange things have been happening to him and he is not sure what to do about. Will Evan be okay or will the person who wants to hurt him succeed? Will Evan open up to Sierra and let her in? Raine thank you for this beautiful story that I will read over and over again!
November 8, 2013
Drama, romance, love, heartbreak, smexiness, and mystery...the perfect contemporary read!
Raine Thomas writes in such a way that you are completely enveloped in the characters world. From the first word to the last, you are thoroughly engaged. Lush, vibrant, and full of texture, the story line takes you on a trip of emotions ranging from laughter, tears, screaming, goosebumps, anger, rejoicing, and trepidation. A kaleidoscope of feels.
I was completely in love with Evan and Sierra.
Sierra was quirky, kind, with a unique sense of knowing.
Evan. Oh Evan. Athlete, Australian, broken soul, troubled, standoffish.
Sierra and Evan meet at the wedding of Everly and Cole. The amazing couple from For Everly. I loved how the author tied the story together even though Meant For Her is a true stand alone.
There is instant attraction, and for Evan, the first in a very long time since the death of his mother that has just broken him emotionally. Sierra senses the sadness and responds to it comforting him in her own unique way. They don't meet again for a few months being brought together by baseball. I am not a huge fan of the game personally but it wasn't overwhelming at all, just added a nice background to the story.
The story starts moving from this point and there are many twists and turns peppered though out their budding relationship. Evan continues to try and keep himself distanced emotionally, all the while Sierra slowly chipping down his self imposed wall of despair.
The mystery aspect was really great too. It was the underlying factor to the story line putting Sierra right in the mix of things.
The ending was perfect after the huge kick in the pants Evan needed!! I loved him regardless!!
I really enjoyed this story and the characters. Raine Thomas did such an amazing job with the characterizations that I really felt I was part of the story, watching from the side lines.
I highly recommend this book!!
Raine Thomas writes in such a way that you are completely enveloped in the characters world. From the first word to the last, you are thoroughly engaged. Lush, vibrant, and full of texture, the story line takes you on a trip of emotions ranging from laughter, tears, screaming, goosebumps, anger, rejoicing, and trepidation. A kaleidoscope of feels.
I was completely in love with Evan and Sierra.
Sierra was quirky, kind, with a unique sense of knowing.
Evan. Oh Evan. Athlete, Australian, broken soul, troubled, standoffish.
Sierra and Evan meet at the wedding of Everly and Cole. The amazing couple from For Everly. I loved how the author tied the story together even though Meant For Her is a true stand alone.
There is instant attraction, and for Evan, the first in a very long time since the death of his mother that has just broken him emotionally. Sierra senses the sadness and responds to it comforting him in her own unique way. They don't meet again for a few months being brought together by baseball. I am not a huge fan of the game personally but it wasn't overwhelming at all, just added a nice background to the story.
The story starts moving from this point and there are many twists and turns peppered though out their budding relationship. Evan continues to try and keep himself distanced emotionally, all the while Sierra slowly chipping down his self imposed wall of despair.
The mystery aspect was really great too. It was the underlying factor to the story line putting Sierra right in the mix of things.
The ending was perfect after the huge kick in the pants Evan needed!! I loved him regardless!!
I really enjoyed this story and the characters. Raine Thomas did such an amazing job with the characterizations that I really felt I was part of the story, watching from the side lines.
I highly recommend this book!!
April 10, 2015
I've been a huge fan of Raine ever since her first book was published a few years ago. She has always written beautifully and has a way with words that can only come from natural talent. Her books have been amazing from the start and they just get better and better!
Meant for her is as of now one of my favorite books by Raine. I started reading it and couldn't put it down. I loved the characters so much! I found myself relating to Sierra. Her "flaws" reminded me of my flaws and I noticed her doing so many things I would do. Here comes Evan, the grief of losing his mother, the only person he has ever had has driven him into a slump that most wouldn't be willing to pull someone out of. I was not expecting the ending to turn out the way it did.
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Another thing I LOVED about this book was how I was able to be with characters that I fell in love with in For Everly which is set in the same world.
I loved everything about this story and I seriously can not wait for Raine's next work!
For more reviews, check out our blog !
Meant for her is as of now one of my favorite books by Raine. I started reading it and couldn't put it down. I loved the characters so much! I found myself relating to Sierra. Her "flaws" reminded me of my flaws and I noticed her doing so many things I would do. Here comes Evan, the grief of losing his mother, the only person he has ever had has driven him into a slump that most wouldn't be willing to pull someone out of. I was not expecting the ending to turn out the way it did.
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Another thing I LOVED about this book was how I was able to be with characters that I fell in love with in For Everly which is set in the same world.
I loved everything about this story and I seriously can not wait for Raine's next work!
For more reviews, check out our blog !
April 5, 2014
4 Stars
This book was a spin off from Raine Thomas' For Everly. I never read the first book but didn't feel that it took away from Sierra and Evan's story. For those fan's of the first book, they will be happy to get more glimpses of those characters.
Evan is coming to play ball in Atlanta. He is trying to rid himself of some of the guilt after his mom's death. Because of that loss, he has no interest in relationships or setting down roots. Sierra is a unique individual, always seeing the best in others and often times too nice. But she follows her instincts and they are rarely wrong. So when she has the urge to help Evan, and when she feels they really have a future together, she refuses to give up oh him.
I really enjoyed this story. There were times that I too was as frustrated as the characters by Sierra's too nice behavior. Sometimes it was downright annoying and honestly she took too many liberties insinuating herself in Evan's life. Despite that I really did get into the little mystery interspersed throughout the story and was definitely wrong about that one.
In the end we get a HEA and we are not left with a nasty cliffhanger, so overall, the book is a worthwhile read.
Thanks to NetGalley for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This book was a spin off from Raine Thomas' For Everly. I never read the first book but didn't feel that it took away from Sierra and Evan's story. For those fan's of the first book, they will be happy to get more glimpses of those characters.
Evan is coming to play ball in Atlanta. He is trying to rid himself of some of the guilt after his mom's death. Because of that loss, he has no interest in relationships or setting down roots. Sierra is a unique individual, always seeing the best in others and often times too nice. But she follows her instincts and they are rarely wrong. So when she has the urge to help Evan, and when she feels they really have a future together, she refuses to give up oh him.
I really enjoyed this story. There were times that I too was as frustrated as the characters by Sierra's too nice behavior. Sometimes it was downright annoying and honestly she took too many liberties insinuating herself in Evan's life. Despite that I really did get into the little mystery interspersed throughout the story and was definitely wrong about that one.
In the end we get a HEA and we are not left with a nasty cliffhanger, so overall, the book is a worthwhile read.
Thanks to NetGalley for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
September 21, 2013
So of course I had to read this bookie, as well it's by Raine Thomas people come on. Evan... that boy *sighs* that boy gave me whiplash, he was such a wanker at times, and then you know at certain points I thought he needed a swift kick in the gonads. I'm not sure how to describe his feelings for Sierra, you decide, "she turned and almost collided with Evan's chest. Apparently, he had been following her." I mean he's a looker and he has an accent so those give him points in my book, "Evan stood in the doorway to his room wearing nothing but a towel." Mhmm, ladies yummy! He's well sexually endowed, "mother of God," he panted, bracing himself against the wall. "I could take you right here." He's the first guy I've met whose pushed a shopping expedition so that does give him brownie points as well, "excellent." He tugged her hand and led her across the street. "I never thought I'd be saying this to anyone, but hell...let's go shopping." Throw in some protectiveness, and a couple of cute dogs and you get the perfect match of Sierra and Evan.
October 27, 2013
Raine Thomas has yet again impressed me with her Contemporary Romance writing abilities. Sierra and Evan’s story was a story filled with a little bit of darkness, a little bit of healing, and a little bit of love and compassion.
Evan was a difficult character to really grasp at the begging. Since the story is told through dual points of view, I would see the way he treated Sierra through her eyes which wasn’t always all that great and then switch over to Evan’s point of view and witness the reasons behind his actions which didn’t necessary excuse his actions but at least give me some insight into the real Evan. Despite the gruff, distant attitude he has at the beginning of Meant For Her, the more time Evan spends with Sierra, the more we are able to see how much pain he carries around with him. Right along with Sierra, I took the simple joys of every little piece of progress that Evan made; haring a piece of his past, hanging out with his friends, smiling every now and then.
Sierra is the definition of a carefree, easygoing, free spirit. Everything about this character was truly good. She was passionate about everything she cared about from her photography, to her family, to her friends, and to even complete strangers. I just appreciated how easy of a character she was to love. As Evan’s neighbor and also being the niece of his professional baseball team’s manager, Sierra decides she is just the person to break down Evan’s walls and get to the root of his pain and despair. And considering this character has enough love and caring within her to put the rest of us to shame, she is the perfect option.
Reading about Evan by himself was enjoyable but not without struggles. Reading about Sierra by herself was inspiring and touching. But reading about the two of them together was a completely different story. I LOVED the connection these two had. Sierra knew Evan harbored deep pain before she ever even spoke to him. On the flip side, Evan has been lost for a long time but even more so during the past year but Sierra changes something for him. It is because of her he can finally begin to heal, learn to trust and care for others, and even open up about himself. I also love that this relationship was not without struggles. Sierra pushes Evan too far, Evan pushes Sierra away. Evan allows Sierra to get too close and then he closes off out of fear. But despite all of the problems that their relationship faced, there was enough romance, compassion, and natural chemistry between these two to make it all worth the read.
On top of all this other greatness that Raine has going on in the story, she also went and added in two of my favorite characters from her previous NA contemporary book, For Everly. That’s right people, Cole and Everly are in this book. And I don’t mean in a “Oh we passed a cute couple on a street” way but “Oh Cole is friends with Evan and Everly is friends with Sierra” way. I just adored the fact that even though their book is over, their story wasn’t. I can’t share much more about their parts in the story in fear that I’ll spoil it for you but I will let you know that it made my heart oh so happy.
I could go all day talking about all the things I love about this book but what you really know is that Raine makes it oh so easy to read her books. Her characters are ones I love, the struggles they go through are ones that hurt my heart, but in the end, the changes they make and the struggles that they overcome make it worth it!
And now, because Raine and I are allll about music over here, she’s put together an Ah-Mazing book playlist for all you awesome book lovers! Take a listen below and read all about how the specific songs play a part in the book!
Evan was a difficult character to really grasp at the begging. Since the story is told through dual points of view, I would see the way he treated Sierra through her eyes which wasn’t always all that great and then switch over to Evan’s point of view and witness the reasons behind his actions which didn’t necessary excuse his actions but at least give me some insight into the real Evan. Despite the gruff, distant attitude he has at the beginning of Meant For Her, the more time Evan spends with Sierra, the more we are able to see how much pain he carries around with him. Right along with Sierra, I took the simple joys of every little piece of progress that Evan made; haring a piece of his past, hanging out with his friends, smiling every now and then.
Sierra is the definition of a carefree, easygoing, free spirit. Everything about this character was truly good. She was passionate about everything she cared about from her photography, to her family, to her friends, and to even complete strangers. I just appreciated how easy of a character she was to love. As Evan’s neighbor and also being the niece of his professional baseball team’s manager, Sierra decides she is just the person to break down Evan’s walls and get to the root of his pain and despair. And considering this character has enough love and caring within her to put the rest of us to shame, she is the perfect option.
Reading about Evan by himself was enjoyable but not without struggles. Reading about Sierra by herself was inspiring and touching. But reading about the two of them together was a completely different story. I LOVED the connection these two had. Sierra knew Evan harbored deep pain before she ever even spoke to him. On the flip side, Evan has been lost for a long time but even more so during the past year but Sierra changes something for him. It is because of her he can finally begin to heal, learn to trust and care for others, and even open up about himself. I also love that this relationship was not without struggles. Sierra pushes Evan too far, Evan pushes Sierra away. Evan allows Sierra to get too close and then he closes off out of fear. But despite all of the problems that their relationship faced, there was enough romance, compassion, and natural chemistry between these two to make it all worth the read.
On top of all this other greatness that Raine has going on in the story, she also went and added in two of my favorite characters from her previous NA contemporary book, For Everly. That’s right people, Cole and Everly are in this book. And I don’t mean in a “Oh we passed a cute couple on a street” way but “Oh Cole is friends with Evan and Everly is friends with Sierra” way. I just adored the fact that even though their book is over, their story wasn’t. I can’t share much more about their parts in the story in fear that I’ll spoil it for you but I will let you know that it made my heart oh so happy.
I could go all day talking about all the things I love about this book but what you really know is that Raine makes it oh so easy to read her books. Her characters are ones I love, the struggles they go through are ones that hurt my heart, but in the end, the changes they make and the struggles that they overcome make it worth it!
And now, because Raine and I are allll about music over here, she’s put together an Ah-Mazing book playlist for all you awesome book lovers! Take a listen below and read all about how the specific songs play a part in the book!
October 16, 2013
This book was packed full of emotions, romance, and lots of suspense. But what got me the most was the suspense and mystery that seemed to crop up out of left field (baseball pun most definitely intended.) I had no idea who was behind the threats even though I thought I did. It is a great feeling knowing the author got one over on you. Well done, Thomas. Well done.
The romance was beautifully done. It had you aching by the time some scenes came around and you realized you were falling in love right along with the characters. Gah! Thomas told a story that leaves the readers weak in the knees and a swell of love and hope in the heart. I could see myself re-reading this one just to experience the romance all over again.
Many times Evan mentioned that Sierra was too nice. And that very well may be true. But she can see in others what many cannot. She will give people the benefit of the doubt...believing that there are 2 sides to every story. I do know that I wouldn't have been as gracious as she was with some people in the book. I will say that even though she was sweet and nice…the girl tells it like it is. She wasn’t one bit shy to tell Evan she wanted him and wanted to be with him. But rejection can be a beotch. And it can hurt.
Evan could be a real jackleg at times. Ok, like most of the time. But I loved this guy so much. Even though I didn’t understand him…I understand where his attitude and pain is coming from. He has been closed off from ever loving another human being ever since he lost his mother. But he had no idea that Sierra was steadily chipping away at his walls until she almost had them down. But he’d have those walls back up in the blink of an eye when times got dark and heavy. Sierra is a girl that has the patience of a saint when it comes to Evan. As for me, I would have left his rear a long time ago with the way he would treated her at times.
I eagerly devoured this book in one day to seek out why Evan is the way he is...who was behind the threats...and if Sierra would get her man in the end. And I gotta tell you, I was pleasantly surprised with all the answers I found. This book is really well written and definitely addictive. It is one of those reads you won’t want to put down until the end.
You do not need to have read FOR EVERLY to enjoy this book. But you'd be a fool to pass up on its goodness. Thomas knows how to write a fabulous book that keeps readers coming back for more. So if you have read FOR EVERLY, obviously you are going to want to read this one. It is a given.
Fave line...
Something indefinable shifted in him upon seeing his name across the back of her jersey. Even though he'd been an ass when she needed his support, she was broadcasting her support of him to the world. Well, at least in his mind. It was something he'd never forget.
The romance was beautifully done. It had you aching by the time some scenes came around and you realized you were falling in love right along with the characters. Gah! Thomas told a story that leaves the readers weak in the knees and a swell of love and hope in the heart. I could see myself re-reading this one just to experience the romance all over again.
Many times Evan mentioned that Sierra was too nice. And that very well may be true. But she can see in others what many cannot. She will give people the benefit of the doubt...believing that there are 2 sides to every story. I do know that I wouldn't have been as gracious as she was with some people in the book. I will say that even though she was sweet and nice…the girl tells it like it is. She wasn’t one bit shy to tell Evan she wanted him and wanted to be with him. But rejection can be a beotch. And it can hurt.
Evan could be a real jackleg at times. Ok, like most of the time. But I loved this guy so much. Even though I didn’t understand him…I understand where his attitude and pain is coming from. He has been closed off from ever loving another human being ever since he lost his mother. But he had no idea that Sierra was steadily chipping away at his walls until she almost had them down. But he’d have those walls back up in the blink of an eye when times got dark and heavy. Sierra is a girl that has the patience of a saint when it comes to Evan. As for me, I would have left his rear a long time ago with the way he would treated her at times.
I eagerly devoured this book in one day to seek out why Evan is the way he is...who was behind the threats...and if Sierra would get her man in the end. And I gotta tell you, I was pleasantly surprised with all the answers I found. This book is really well written and definitely addictive. It is one of those reads you won’t want to put down until the end.
You do not need to have read FOR EVERLY to enjoy this book. But you'd be a fool to pass up on its goodness. Thomas knows how to write a fabulous book that keeps readers coming back for more. So if you have read FOR EVERLY, obviously you are going to want to read this one. It is a given.
Fave line...
Something indefinable shifted in him upon seeing his name across the back of her jersey. Even though he'd been an ass when she needed his support, she was broadcasting her support of him to the world. Well, at least in his mind. It was something he'd never forget.
October 13, 2013
To see my full review:
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Raine Thomas has quickly become one of my top authors to read. If it has her name on it, I’m definitely going to pick it up, especially after being blown away by both this novel and her previous NA release, For Everly. Set in the same world of major league baseball, both Meant For Her and For Everly unite America’s favorite pastime with angsty men, exceptional women, a bit of mystery, and much intrigue in order to create breath taking, amazing reads.
While both novels are technically stand alones, Meant For Her takes place a few months after the conclusion of For Everly, following a completely different set of characters but also looking in on Everly and Cole, uniting the couples in friendship. I loved this because, after reading For Everly, I wasn’t ready to give up one of my favorite couples of all time, and it was great to see them in the background of this novel as Sierra and Evan took the lead and stole my heart.
Sierra is an amazing woman, and I love the splash of photography that Thomas adds into the mix, showing scenes through the lens of the camera and really painting an amazing portrait within this novel. Though Evan struggles to commit, Sierra’s understanding and love captures his heart, and her unwavering stance made me love her from the get-go. Evan has his moments when it’s easy to love him, but he also struggles with the recent loss of his mother and, unwilling to allow himself to feel this type of loss again, he pushes everyone away. At times, I really understood where Evan was coming from, and at others, I wanted to slap him in the face, yet Sierra never gives up on Evan and, though rebuffed time and time again, she ultimately breaks down his hard barriers.
I loved the relationship between Sierra and Evan in this novel, and I enjoyed the aspect of baseball as well. Though not a huge fan of the game, Thomas includes just enough that it’s intriguing but not overwhelming as most of the novel revolves around the relationships of the characters, and the threats against Evan as a newcomer to Atlanta. The mystery and intrigue arises here as Evan shrugs off the threats, ignoring Sierra’s intuition and, ultimately, putting himself and those he loves in great peril. Overall, the truth of the matter is somewhat of a shock because Thomas points in another direction from the start, which is another reason that I really enjoyed this novel. It’s a beautiful read, one I highly recommend, and once you finish, be sure to go back and read For Everly if you haven’t already. You won’t be disappointed
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Raine Thomas has quickly become one of my top authors to read. If it has her name on it, I’m definitely going to pick it up, especially after being blown away by both this novel and her previous NA release, For Everly. Set in the same world of major league baseball, both Meant For Her and For Everly unite America’s favorite pastime with angsty men, exceptional women, a bit of mystery, and much intrigue in order to create breath taking, amazing reads.
While both novels are technically stand alones, Meant For Her takes place a few months after the conclusion of For Everly, following a completely different set of characters but also looking in on Everly and Cole, uniting the couples in friendship. I loved this because, after reading For Everly, I wasn’t ready to give up one of my favorite couples of all time, and it was great to see them in the background of this novel as Sierra and Evan took the lead and stole my heart.
Sierra is an amazing woman, and I love the splash of photography that Thomas adds into the mix, showing scenes through the lens of the camera and really painting an amazing portrait within this novel. Though Evan struggles to commit, Sierra’s understanding and love captures his heart, and her unwavering stance made me love her from the get-go. Evan has his moments when it’s easy to love him, but he also struggles with the recent loss of his mother and, unwilling to allow himself to feel this type of loss again, he pushes everyone away. At times, I really understood where Evan was coming from, and at others, I wanted to slap him in the face, yet Sierra never gives up on Evan and, though rebuffed time and time again, she ultimately breaks down his hard barriers.
I loved the relationship between Sierra and Evan in this novel, and I enjoyed the aspect of baseball as well. Though not a huge fan of the game, Thomas includes just enough that it’s intriguing but not overwhelming as most of the novel revolves around the relationships of the characters, and the threats against Evan as a newcomer to Atlanta. The mystery and intrigue arises here as Evan shrugs off the threats, ignoring Sierra’s intuition and, ultimately, putting himself and those he loves in great peril. Overall, the truth of the matter is somewhat of a shock because Thomas points in another direction from the start, which is another reason that I really enjoyed this novel. It’s a beautiful read, one I highly recommend, and once you finish, be sure to go back and read For Everly if you haven’t already. You won’t be disappointed
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January 24, 2019
This is my first venture into the contemporary sports section, and I really enjoyed it. =) Not that I had any idea about the baseball terms, but the ups and dows that come with a team are something I love.
But of course it's not just the baseball that deserves the credit for being the sorce of good AND evil in this, no, a whole lot of more good came from the photography part. I really, really admire people who can capture a moment in a picture. Those kinds of people where the saying "A picture tells more then 1ooo words" comes true. Sierra with all her intuitive and nursing traits was perfect to get a camera in hand. Not just that either, of course. She was one amazing woman through and through, and can get straight in line with all the other females in Raine Thomas' stories: strong in their own way, determined, powerful in her element, and just the perfect match for their guys.
I doubt it will every cease to amaze me how well Raine can put two souls together. One entirely broken, the other glowing from the inside out, and it always reads like there is no other way for them than to find each other, like... like gravity. The little pushes they get from outside sources are only to shorten the agony, because they would undoubtedly always find their other half. And it's never like some lovesick-puppy story, despite the kind of insta-love feeling underneath. It's always on a reasonable bases -- like Sierra. The intuition of that woman doesn't only count as a 6th, but also as a 7th sense, making her totally entitled for insta-everything.
While Sierra was instant, Evan was all about progress, and not all of it painless. He had to sort through some harsh problems, and while he didn't handle everything right, it was the point that he got through. I have to say, on some level this exceeded young/new adult, because it wasn't all about thinking things through and coming up with the right solution, or about leaning from mistakes, but about getting through in the first place. It was important in order to portrait Evan as a guy totally floating without roots as he was, and he was generally an amazing "project". He's getting some extra points for having to handle a harem (Sierra's 5 female family) all on his own from now on, too. :P
Throughout the story, I laughed a lot, I screamed and cursed at points, and I was on the brink of tears. Yap, a trademark Raine Thomas' read.
Area Scan: Flow: 5/5 -- Vocab: 4/5 -- Plot: 5/5 -- Heroes: 5/5 -- Sidekicks: 5/5 -- Villains: 5/5 -- Romance: 5/5 -- Drama: 5/5 -- Action: 5/5 -- Suspense: 3.5/5 -- Humor: 4/5
But of course it's not just the baseball that deserves the credit for being the sorce of good AND evil in this, no, a whole lot of more good came from the photography part. I really, really admire people who can capture a moment in a picture. Those kinds of people where the saying "A picture tells more then 1ooo words" comes true. Sierra with all her intuitive and nursing traits was perfect to get a camera in hand. Not just that either, of course. She was one amazing woman through and through, and can get straight in line with all the other females in Raine Thomas' stories: strong in their own way, determined, powerful in her element, and just the perfect match for their guys.
I doubt it will every cease to amaze me how well Raine can put two souls together. One entirely broken, the other glowing from the inside out, and it always reads like there is no other way for them than to find each other, like... like gravity. The little pushes they get from outside sources are only to shorten the agony, because they would undoubtedly always find their other half. And it's never like some lovesick-puppy story, despite the kind of insta-love feeling underneath. It's always on a reasonable bases -- like Sierra. The intuition of that woman doesn't only count as a 6th, but also as a 7th sense, making her totally entitled for insta-everything.
While Sierra was instant, Evan was all about progress, and not all of it painless. He had to sort through some harsh problems, and while he didn't handle everything right, it was the point that he got through. I have to say, on some level this exceeded young/new adult, because it wasn't all about thinking things through and coming up with the right solution, or about leaning from mistakes, but about getting through in the first place. It was important in order to portrait Evan as a guy totally floating without roots as he was, and he was generally an amazing "project". He's getting some extra points for having to handle a harem (Sierra's 5 female family) all on his own from now on, too. :P
Throughout the story, I laughed a lot, I screamed and cursed at points, and I was on the brink of tears. Yap, a trademark Raine Thomas' read.
Area Scan: Flow: 5/5 -- Vocab: 4/5 -- Plot: 5/5 -- Heroes: 5/5 -- Sidekicks: 5/5 -- Villains: 5/5 -- Romance: 5/5 -- Drama: 5/5 -- Action: 5/5 -- Suspense: 3.5/5 -- Humor: 4/5
November 13, 2013
I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Meant for Her is a prime example of what makes a romance great. The characters in this novel leap off the pages. By the end of the story, I knew them so well, they seemed like friends. No amount of action scenes, murders, or sex can accomplish what a well developed character can. I'm not saying that the plot is boring, but what really mattered in this novel were the characters. The plot took a backseat to them.
Sierra is more than a ray of sunshine, she's the whole freaking sun. I'd say no one is that sweet and good if I didn't personally know someone like that. She can read people, which I think comes from the simple fact that she cares. When she meets Evan, she recognizes his dark despair and feels an overwhelming urge to help him. It doesn't hurt that she's madly attracted to him. I loved Sierra, rooted for her, wanted her to be happy. If Sierra wasn't happy at the end of the book, I think I would've been extremely irate.
Evan is in a dark place since the death of his mother. It's just been him and his mom for so long, and now he's all alone. He's terrified of setting down roots anywhere; of making friends that he might come to care for since his heart couldn't handle more loss. Evan is one of those strong males with a soft interior that makes me melt. He's a third baseman, so it goes without saying that he's athletic. Evan's also an animal lover, another endearing quality in a man. When he realizes he's falling for Sierra, he wants to push her away, but something within keeps fighting. Be sure to Google Alaskan Klee Kai if you're not familiar with the breed so you have an idea of what his dogs, Beck and Miller, look like. He named them after his favorite beer, priceless.
As I said earlier, the characters in this novel are fantastic. It's not limited to the main characters either. So many of the secondary characters are well developed and interesting. There's some suspense and mystery; someone has been sabotaging Evan's gear and his property, and Sierra is seriously creeped out by the petsitter, Geoff. This book is a bit on the long side, but it reads very fast. I ended up on the elliptical for an extra ten minutes without realizing it because I was so engrossed in the story.
I highly recommend Meant for Her to everyone 18+ (due to mature content and language) that enjoys a character driven romance. I've added this one to my favorites list on Goodreads. Add it to your to-read list. You won't regret it.
Meant for Her is a prime example of what makes a romance great. The characters in this novel leap off the pages. By the end of the story, I knew them so well, they seemed like friends. No amount of action scenes, murders, or sex can accomplish what a well developed character can. I'm not saying that the plot is boring, but what really mattered in this novel were the characters. The plot took a backseat to them.
Sierra is more than a ray of sunshine, she's the whole freaking sun. I'd say no one is that sweet and good if I didn't personally know someone like that. She can read people, which I think comes from the simple fact that she cares. When she meets Evan, she recognizes his dark despair and feels an overwhelming urge to help him. It doesn't hurt that she's madly attracted to him. I loved Sierra, rooted for her, wanted her to be happy. If Sierra wasn't happy at the end of the book, I think I would've been extremely irate.
Evan is in a dark place since the death of his mother. It's just been him and his mom for so long, and now he's all alone. He's terrified of setting down roots anywhere; of making friends that he might come to care for since his heart couldn't handle more loss. Evan is one of those strong males with a soft interior that makes me melt. He's a third baseman, so it goes without saying that he's athletic. Evan's also an animal lover, another endearing quality in a man. When he realizes he's falling for Sierra, he wants to push her away, but something within keeps fighting. Be sure to Google Alaskan Klee Kai if you're not familiar with the breed so you have an idea of what his dogs, Beck and Miller, look like. He named them after his favorite beer, priceless.
As I said earlier, the characters in this novel are fantastic. It's not limited to the main characters either. So many of the secondary characters are well developed and interesting. There's some suspense and mystery; someone has been sabotaging Evan's gear and his property, and Sierra is seriously creeped out by the petsitter, Geoff. This book is a bit on the long side, but it reads very fast. I ended up on the elliptical for an extra ten minutes without realizing it because I was so engrossed in the story.
I highly recommend Meant for Her to everyone 18+ (due to mature content and language) that enjoys a character driven romance. I've added this one to my favorites list on Goodreads. Add it to your to-read list. You won't regret it.
October 17, 2013
Evan Dorsey is in a world of blackness after his mother dies. He is afraid to get close to anyone again in fear of the emotional turmoil he went though with his mom. He keeps everyone at an arms length and doesn't plan to stay in one spot. But once he sees HER, he is mesmerized by her sweet pimpled smile and the words she says.
Sierra Stratton is someone who trusts what her gut is telling her. When she see's him at Cole and Everly's reception, she knows there is something wrong with him. But what, she doesn't know.
Sierra goes with her gut feeling, knowing that her and Evan are meant to be together. She pushes her way into his life after he moves in next door to him. In order for her to get him to open up to her, Sierra is bound and determined to break down the walls Evan has built around him.
He finally gets a break, transferring to Atlanta. He wants to fill one of his mom's dreams, even if it's for part of a season. Soon after moving in, Evan starts to receive several threatening messages. Someone doesn't want Evan there, and is not afraid to go to long lengths to make sure that happens. But when Sierra is brought into the mix, Even is faced with losing the one thing he doesn't want to admit he wants.
MY THOUGHTS:
I loved FOR EVERLY, and I was very happy that Raine incorporated Cole and Everly into this book. Cole is a childhood friend to Evan, and they stayed close, even though they both played for different teams.
I loved Evan. An Australian, the accent... Totally swoon worthy!!
The romance in this book was slow at first, but there was a reason in my mind for the lack of connection. This made me want to read into the story more to see where this relationship between Sierra and Evan was going to go.
Even if Evan was this hot 3rd basemen, I did want to slap him a few times during the book. Once he got comfortable with Sierra, he would push her away and Sierra would have to push just a little harder to bring him back. Everly, the wonderful friend, gave Evan a dose of medication he needed for him to open his eyes, and recover from all that he lost, and what he would lose if he didn't open up.
I really loved this story. I love Raine's writing, especially when she surrounded the story with the two previous characters from FOR EVERLY around the main ones for this book. I would highly recommend this book!!!
Sierra Stratton is someone who trusts what her gut is telling her. When she see's him at Cole and Everly's reception, she knows there is something wrong with him. But what, she doesn't know.
Sierra goes with her gut feeling, knowing that her and Evan are meant to be together. She pushes her way into his life after he moves in next door to him. In order for her to get him to open up to her, Sierra is bound and determined to break down the walls Evan has built around him.
He finally gets a break, transferring to Atlanta. He wants to fill one of his mom's dreams, even if it's for part of a season. Soon after moving in, Evan starts to receive several threatening messages. Someone doesn't want Evan there, and is not afraid to go to long lengths to make sure that happens. But when Sierra is brought into the mix, Even is faced with losing the one thing he doesn't want to admit he wants.
MY THOUGHTS:
I loved FOR EVERLY, and I was very happy that Raine incorporated Cole and Everly into this book. Cole is a childhood friend to Evan, and they stayed close, even though they both played for different teams.
I loved Evan. An Australian, the accent... Totally swoon worthy!!
The romance in this book was slow at first, but there was a reason in my mind for the lack of connection. This made me want to read into the story more to see where this relationship between Sierra and Evan was going to go.
Even if Evan was this hot 3rd basemen, I did want to slap him a few times during the book. Once he got comfortable with Sierra, he would push her away and Sierra would have to push just a little harder to bring him back. Everly, the wonderful friend, gave Evan a dose of medication he needed for him to open his eyes, and recover from all that he lost, and what he would lose if he didn't open up.
I really loved this story. I love Raine's writing, especially when she surrounded the story with the two previous characters from FOR EVERLY around the main ones for this book. I would highly recommend this book!!!
November 3, 2013
If you read and enjoyed For Everly, you will definitely enjoy this book as well. Although this is a follow-up book with many of the same characters, it can definitely stand alone. It’s a book with some romance, some mystery and some wonderful characters who will draw you in from the very beginning.
The first time Sierra meets Evan she knows instinctively that he’s sad and broken. She also knows that she wants to help him get through the darkness he’s facing. So, when fate brings him to her city to play baseball for the local team, Sierra finally gets her chance. The story then follows the ups and downs each of them faces as they try to move forward. These two characters complement each other very well. Where one was strong, the other had a weakness, where one was sure, the other was confused, where one had roots, the other didn’t plan to stick around. But this isn’t a case of opposites attracting, it’s a case of patiently waiting for the right time…and maybe pushing just a little bit when necessary.
I anticipated loving these characters because, to be honest, I’ve enjoyed every character that Raine Thomas has ever written. No matter which of her series I read, I’m guaranteed to have characters with depth, strong emotions, and who just “feel real”. And, of course, I was not disappointed. Sierra is a strong, loyal character. She has a sixth sense about people and can read them fairly easily. She’s caring and intelligent and I’d definitely want her as a friend. Evan, the sexy, strong, Australian has just faced his mother’s death and is, therefore, more insecure about feelings and relationships. In general, he’s looking to keep to himself. The push and pull of the story (and the fact that it’s written in alternating POV’s) had me both loving him and feeling frustrated by him at the same time. Of course, my love for him had the upper hand at the end. Oh, and I can’t forget to mention their chemistry… strong in the beginning and absolutely explodes as we get farther into the book.
This was a great read. The story captured my imagination, the characters moved right into my heart and, as always, the writing style was creative, smooth and wonderful…can’t get better than that!
The first time Sierra meets Evan she knows instinctively that he’s sad and broken. She also knows that she wants to help him get through the darkness he’s facing. So, when fate brings him to her city to play baseball for the local team, Sierra finally gets her chance. The story then follows the ups and downs each of them faces as they try to move forward. These two characters complement each other very well. Where one was strong, the other had a weakness, where one was sure, the other was confused, where one had roots, the other didn’t plan to stick around. But this isn’t a case of opposites attracting, it’s a case of patiently waiting for the right time…and maybe pushing just a little bit when necessary.
I anticipated loving these characters because, to be honest, I’ve enjoyed every character that Raine Thomas has ever written. No matter which of her series I read, I’m guaranteed to have characters with depth, strong emotions, and who just “feel real”. And, of course, I was not disappointed. Sierra is a strong, loyal character. She has a sixth sense about people and can read them fairly easily. She’s caring and intelligent and I’d definitely want her as a friend. Evan, the sexy, strong, Australian has just faced his mother’s death and is, therefore, more insecure about feelings and relationships. In general, he’s looking to keep to himself. The push and pull of the story (and the fact that it’s written in alternating POV’s) had me both loving him and feeling frustrated by him at the same time. Of course, my love for him had the upper hand at the end. Oh, and I can’t forget to mention their chemistry… strong in the beginning and absolutely explodes as we get farther into the book.
This was a great read. The story captured my imagination, the characters moved right into my heart and, as always, the writing style was creative, smooth and wonderful…can’t get better than that!
October 28, 2013
I loved this book! It was well written, the characters caught my attention from the very beginning and it just left me with a wonderfully contented feeling... Like curling up under a blanket in my favourite PJs, all snug and warm and happy inside, while the wind howls and the rain pours down outside.
This book features Evan who is a childhood friend, and fellow baseball player, of Cole who we met in the previous book For Everly (the first NA offering from the author).
Sierra, our leading lady, was also in For Everly, very briefly, as the photographer at a photoshoot.
You don't need to have read For Everly to read Meant For Her but I would because it's a great book :)
Evan, when we first meet him, is emotionally destroyed by the death of his mother and as a result he shuts out anyone who tries to get close to him.
Sierra is a bit of a free-spirit and she is highly intuitive (bordering on psychic I'd say). She meets Evan at a wedding (Cole and Everly' wedding) and feels like they are meant for each other.
Now, I don't really go in for instalove and, despite how it may sound, that isn't what happens here.
It takes months for Sierra to win over Evan, it takes time for Evan to heal and for every wall Sierra breaks down Evan is ready to build another one.
A massive kick-up the ass / dramatic finale is required for Evan to wake up to what he has, what he stands to lose and what he feels. Its beautiful watching the relationship grow and seeing Evan come back to life. There are times when you want to smack Evan and times when you wish to screech at Sierra for being too nice, but it makes the characters all the more loveable and real and the ending was just lovely...
I loved For Everly, It was great seeing Cole and Everly in this book and how their relationship had progressed and but I have to say I loved Meant For Her more!
I hope there will be more books set around this baseball team, the players and the women who love them. They would go automatically onto my "To Buy" list!
www.thebookloverscodex.blogspot.co.uk
This book features Evan who is a childhood friend, and fellow baseball player, of Cole who we met in the previous book For Everly (the first NA offering from the author).
Sierra, our leading lady, was also in For Everly, very briefly, as the photographer at a photoshoot.
You don't need to have read For Everly to read Meant For Her but I would because it's a great book :)
Evan, when we first meet him, is emotionally destroyed by the death of his mother and as a result he shuts out anyone who tries to get close to him.
Sierra is a bit of a free-spirit and she is highly intuitive (bordering on psychic I'd say). She meets Evan at a wedding (Cole and Everly' wedding) and feels like they are meant for each other.
Now, I don't really go in for instalove and, despite how it may sound, that isn't what happens here.
It takes months for Sierra to win over Evan, it takes time for Evan to heal and for every wall Sierra breaks down Evan is ready to build another one.
A massive kick-up the ass / dramatic finale is required for Evan to wake up to what he has, what he stands to lose and what he feels. Its beautiful watching the relationship grow and seeing Evan come back to life. There are times when you want to smack Evan and times when you wish to screech at Sierra for being too nice, but it makes the characters all the more loveable and real and the ending was just lovely...
I loved For Everly, It was great seeing Cole and Everly in this book and how their relationship had progressed and but I have to say I loved Meant For Her more!
I hope there will be more books set around this baseball team, the players and the women who love them. They would go automatically onto my "To Buy" list!
www.thebookloverscodex.blogspot.co.uk
January 31, 2014
Honest time. I’d never heard of Raine Thomas until last week when I found her book – Meant For Her – on Netgalley. I’m deep into a Sports Romance kick (31 books in a row now!) and I saw the baseball glove on the cover and just felt that I HAD to read it. I started at 10am, and have done pretty much nothing but read today. (With breaks to, you know – care for my child and all that jazz…) I ADORED this book, to put it lightly.
In 337 pages, Raine Thomas has built a complex story line, with an incredibly sweet love story, a bit of a mystery and a few incredibly HOT scenes! (And the first thing I did after finishing this one? Downloaded it’s predecessor, For Everly, which I have every intention of starting after I feed my family dinner!
So let’s jump into it. Evan Dorsey is an incredibly complex character, and it takes us a LONG time to get to know who he is and why he’s so deep and broody all the time. He’s also incredibly sexy, which makes it a fun read. And he has a soft spot for dogs – how can you not love him? But let’s be honest, he’s got a few scenes in the book where he’s a downright jerk. (I deleted some harsher words, figuring I didn’t put a *disclaimer* on it!)
And Sierra gets on my nerves a bit – just like she gets on Evan’s! She’s too nice. And she has a bit of an insta-obsession with Evan, but the more I think about it? The more I do buy into the “When you know, you know.” But they take it slow, and they build an honest relationship and romance – despite Sierra’s slightly creepy stalker tendencies. It’s all forgivable.
And the side stories? Well, there’s Everly – who I can’t wait to get to know in her story – and then there’s Sierra’s family, including her two moms! Which is a fantastic story line in itself. And the baseball team- I love them, I hate them, I want more books about them!! (And there’s lots of baseball talk, which keeps me happy!)
So, long story short? Raine Thomas has a fantastic story here, that I’d recommend to all sports romance fans! I can’t wait to read more from her!
In 337 pages, Raine Thomas has built a complex story line, with an incredibly sweet love story, a bit of a mystery and a few incredibly HOT scenes! (And the first thing I did after finishing this one? Downloaded it’s predecessor, For Everly, which I have every intention of starting after I feed my family dinner!
So let’s jump into it. Evan Dorsey is an incredibly complex character, and it takes us a LONG time to get to know who he is and why he’s so deep and broody all the time. He’s also incredibly sexy, which makes it a fun read. And he has a soft spot for dogs – how can you not love him? But let’s be honest, he’s got a few scenes in the book where he’s a downright jerk. (I deleted some harsher words, figuring I didn’t put a *disclaimer* on it!)
And Sierra gets on my nerves a bit – just like she gets on Evan’s! She’s too nice. And she has a bit of an insta-obsession with Evan, but the more I think about it? The more I do buy into the “When you know, you know.” But they take it slow, and they build an honest relationship and romance – despite Sierra’s slightly creepy stalker tendencies. It’s all forgivable.
And the side stories? Well, there’s Everly – who I can’t wait to get to know in her story – and then there’s Sierra’s family, including her two moms! Which is a fantastic story line in itself. And the baseball team- I love them, I hate them, I want more books about them!! (And there’s lots of baseball talk, which keeps me happy!)
So, long story short? Raine Thomas has a fantastic story here, that I’d recommend to all sports romance fans! I can’t wait to read more from her!
October 31, 2013
When I heard Raine Thomas was releasing another NA contemporary romance I knew I would have to get my hands on it. I have loved all Raine' books and love how she writes both YA paranormal and NA contemporary romance so flawlessly and how she manges to write both seemingly effortlessly. I need to give Raine extra thanks this time as with her latest release Meant for Her, she managed to save me from insanity. I would often turn on my kindle numerous times in the night/early hours while I fed my demanding newborn. It is my belief that her writing skills are what got me through those difficult hours.
Sierra is now one of my favourite female characters, I loved how she was "Too nice" and was always so happy and optimistic, she had an intuition about people too that was rarely wrong.
Evan is haunted by the death of his mother and as a result is in a dark place, a place where he as vowed never to let himself get close to anyone again for fear of feeling the same depth of despair that his mothers passing caused.
Sierra as other ideas and is determined to break down his barriers into his heart.
I was impressed with myself for figuring out the "bad guy" of the story maybe my brain works differently at 2 o'clock in the morning when I am already sleep deprived which is how I was able to guess correctly it was a great curve ball though.
There was a few moments when I wanted to kick Evan's ass for the way he treated or talked to Sierra but Sierra never gives up on him.
An amazing story line with amazing characters, especially the hot Aussie ball player Evan *swoon* I can certainly see why Sierra wanted him so much.
It was an emotional roller-coaster at times especially as sierra started to break the cracks in Evans barrier
I loved to see the familiar faces of Everly and Cole from for Everly too although there is no need to for Everly to read meant for her I would highly recommend it as it is also a fantastic book.
Sierra is now one of my favourite female characters, I loved how she was "Too nice" and was always so happy and optimistic, she had an intuition about people too that was rarely wrong.
Evan is haunted by the death of his mother and as a result is in a dark place, a place where he as vowed never to let himself get close to anyone again for fear of feeling the same depth of despair that his mothers passing caused.
Sierra as other ideas and is determined to break down his barriers into his heart.
I was impressed with myself for figuring out the "bad guy" of the story maybe my brain works differently at 2 o'clock in the morning when I am already sleep deprived which is how I was able to guess correctly it was a great curve ball though.
There was a few moments when I wanted to kick Evan's ass for the way he treated or talked to Sierra but Sierra never gives up on him.
An amazing story line with amazing characters, especially the hot Aussie ball player Evan *swoon* I can certainly see why Sierra wanted him so much.
It was an emotional roller-coaster at times especially as sierra started to break the cracks in Evans barrier
I loved to see the familiar faces of Everly and Cole from for Everly too although there is no need to for Everly to read meant for her I would highly recommend it as it is also a fantastic book.
May 19, 2016
1.5 stars rounded to 2
I really wanted to like this book, but I just couldn't. I had to take a day to relax before writing a review, because I was so annoyed and frustrated with these MCs. If For Everly made me want to read more by Raine Thomas, this book almost made me want to stop.
What I liked:
The alternating dual povs, even while written in the first person, were nicely written. I enjoy Thomas's writing style or else I would have given this book 1 star for the story it told. I can't help but keep reading her books. Her words have a chemistry all their own.
What I didn't like:
1) The female MC, Sierra. Would I call her a heroine? No. She's a doormat. She's too nice and lets people walk all over her. The guy she loves (who hasn't given her any reason too, either) treats her like crap. He's rude to her, dismissive, at one point treats her like a shameful secret, and yet she still gives him the time of day. She's so nice and trusting that I'm surprised she's lived as long as she has without someone seriously hurting her physically or emotionally. She has no self preservation instincts.
2) Sierra has "feelings" or intuition or people's real motives, and of course, she's always right about everyone in the end.
3) Sierra has boundary issues.
4) The male MC. He's a total jerk. I can't stand him at all. Yes, I know his loss made him want to prevent any relationships with people, but that just doesn't seem to be logical. I know it wasn't well thought out on his part, but would he go on living his whole life like that? And when he blames Sierra , that cemented my dislike for him. I know there was truth in parts of what he said to her, but he was so hateful. He didn't deserve to be happy until he pulled his head out of his ass.
I really wanted to like this book, but I just couldn't. I had to take a day to relax before writing a review, because I was so annoyed and frustrated with these MCs. If For Everly made me want to read more by Raine Thomas, this book almost made me want to stop.
What I liked:
The alternating dual povs, even while written in the first person, were nicely written. I enjoy Thomas's writing style or else I would have given this book 1 star for the story it told. I can't help but keep reading her books. Her words have a chemistry all their own.
What I didn't like:
1) The female MC, Sierra. Would I call her a heroine? No. She's a doormat. She's too nice and lets people walk all over her. The guy she loves (who hasn't given her any reason too, either) treats her like crap. He's rude to her, dismissive, at one point treats her like a shameful secret, and yet she still gives him the time of day. She's so nice and trusting that I'm surprised she's lived as long as she has without someone seriously hurting her physically or emotionally. She has no self preservation instincts.
2) Sierra has "feelings" or intuition or people's real motives, and of course, she's always right about everyone in the end.
3) Sierra has boundary issues.
4) The male MC. He's a total jerk. I can't stand him at all. Yes, I know his loss made him want to prevent any relationships with people, but that just doesn't seem to be logical. I know it wasn't well thought out on his part, but would he go on living his whole life like that? And when he blames Sierra , that cemented my dislike for him. I know there was truth in parts of what he said to her, but he was so hateful. He didn't deserve to be happy until he pulled his head out of his ass.
October 21, 2013
There are never enough words to describe how much I love Raine Thomas. I feel in love with her with her First Born trilogy and when she decided to release a NA Contemporary Romance novel, I was surprised at how different the genre was, but wanted to read it because I love Raine. I feel in love with For Everly, and when I knew that Raine was doing about NA book, I was all over it. And oh my goodness, this woman is a NA Contemporary Romance GODDESS!!!
Meant For Her is kind of a sequel to For Everly, but with new characters, however Everly and Cole are in there a little bit. This I think made me love it even more. I was so in love with Everly and Cole and knowing there were there, made me excited that the relationship between Sierra and Evan could be the same. And I was not disappointed AT ALL!
I loved Evan from the start. Even though his character was broken at the beginning, I felt just what Sierra did and fell in love right away. Sierra intrigued me right away too. I loved her attitude with Evan and her carefree attitude towards life. She got him right away, even if Evan didn't realize it.
I would never be able to handle this situation with Evan the way Sierra did, but it was such an amazing read. To read about someone so strong and so loving, is almost an inspiration on how to be. These two needed each other from the beginning and reading about their journey and how they both finally realized this was just an amazing adventure. There wasn't one thing I would change about this book. The ups and the downs made the story so real, and believable. I loved every single minute and I was a blubbering mess by the end. Raine evoked so many emotions in this book, and I cannot wait to read her next one!!!
Meant For Her is kind of a sequel to For Everly, but with new characters, however Everly and Cole are in there a little bit. This I think made me love it even more. I was so in love with Everly and Cole and knowing there were there, made me excited that the relationship between Sierra and Evan could be the same. And I was not disappointed AT ALL!
I loved Evan from the start. Even though his character was broken at the beginning, I felt just what Sierra did and fell in love right away. Sierra intrigued me right away too. I loved her attitude with Evan and her carefree attitude towards life. She got him right away, even if Evan didn't realize it.
I would never be able to handle this situation with Evan the way Sierra did, but it was such an amazing read. To read about someone so strong and so loving, is almost an inspiration on how to be. These two needed each other from the beginning and reading about their journey and how they both finally realized this was just an amazing adventure. There wasn't one thing I would change about this book. The ups and the downs made the story so real, and believable. I loved every single minute and I was a blubbering mess by the end. Raine evoked so many emotions in this book, and I cannot wait to read her next one!!!
December 31, 2014
Since I feel in love with Raine Thomas's writing in For Everly, this book was a "must read" for me. It did not disappoint.
I love the baseball theme that has run through the two books, it is actually a very refreshing book to read. There is a fabulous story line, wonderful characters, romance, mystery, trust, cruelty and love.
Evan Dorsey has put up walls around himself. He has lost his mother and has major trust issues. He does not like to stay in one place for too long, nor does he do commitments.
While at his friend, Cole's wedding, a woman approaches him (Sierra) and knows that he is lost and sad. She has an uncanny knack for knowing what people want/need. He looks for Sierra, but does not come back into contact with her until he signs with an Atlanta baseball team (his mother's dream).
Sierra is determined to get closer to Evan and puts herself in his path. She has a few different jobs and each of them help to facilitate what happens between them. Evan ends up renting an apartment on the same floor as Sierra's and Sierra fills his fridge with food and beer, helps to take care of his two dogs and wiggles her way into Evan's heart.
There is a sinister dog walker involved and tons of doggie antics.
I really enjoyed this book and the author has such as fluid writing style that the book flowed so easily and was over before I realized it.
4.5 stars
I love the baseball theme that has run through the two books, it is actually a very refreshing book to read. There is a fabulous story line, wonderful characters, romance, mystery, trust, cruelty and love.
Evan Dorsey has put up walls around himself. He has lost his mother and has major trust issues. He does not like to stay in one place for too long, nor does he do commitments.
While at his friend, Cole's wedding, a woman approaches him (Sierra) and knows that he is lost and sad. She has an uncanny knack for knowing what people want/need. He looks for Sierra, but does not come back into contact with her until he signs with an Atlanta baseball team (his mother's dream).
Sierra is determined to get closer to Evan and puts herself in his path. She has a few different jobs and each of them help to facilitate what happens between them. Evan ends up renting an apartment on the same floor as Sierra's and Sierra fills his fridge with food and beer, helps to take care of his two dogs and wiggles her way into Evan's heart.
There is a sinister dog walker involved and tons of doggie antics.
I really enjoyed this book and the author has such as fluid writing style that the book flowed so easily and was over before I realized it.
4.5 stars
October 29, 2013
First off I want to give a HUGE thank you to Raine, for providing me with an ARC copy of this book to review for the tour :)
What an emotional rollercoaster, and for it to be the male lead character instead of the female for a change.
Such a different outlook and I loved every minute.
I fell in love with Evan, and OMG I LOVE his name, its unusual and different :) Oh and did I mention that he's HOT as Sin and Australian, so we know what that means.....sexy as hell accent ;P
Rain has written the characters beautifully, although I got confused in the beginning as to who's POV I was reading I got used to it :)
Evan has been thrust into a world of horror's and darkness. Plagued by the memoires of another lifetime, a happy time, he no longer seizes to exist.
That all soon changes when he meets Sierra for the first time at Everly and Cole's wedding, her smile, full of dimples, starts to break through the ice, that started to surround his ever breaking heart.
I possibly couldn't tear myself away from this beautiful story, It's full of Love, compassion, Lust, Heartbreak, Family Ties.
There's certainly twists and turns, people being manipulative (gotta love 'em), there's moments when I was literally screaming at my kindle and my boyfriend kept giving me funny looks from the comments I was saying to myself *sigh*
I WANT no NEED to read more from this author as she has got me HOOKED on her :)
What an emotional rollercoaster, and for it to be the male lead character instead of the female for a change.
Such a different outlook and I loved every minute.
I fell in love with Evan, and OMG I LOVE his name, its unusual and different :) Oh and did I mention that he's HOT as Sin and Australian, so we know what that means.....sexy as hell accent ;P
Rain has written the characters beautifully, although I got confused in the beginning as to who's POV I was reading I got used to it :)
Evan has been thrust into a world of horror's and darkness. Plagued by the memoires of another lifetime, a happy time, he no longer seizes to exist.
That all soon changes when he meets Sierra for the first time at Everly and Cole's wedding, her smile, full of dimples, starts to break through the ice, that started to surround his ever breaking heart.
I possibly couldn't tear myself away from this beautiful story, It's full of Love, compassion, Lust, Heartbreak, Family Ties.
There's certainly twists and turns, people being manipulative (gotta love 'em), there's moments when I was literally screaming at my kindle and my boyfriend kept giving me funny looks from the comments I was saying to myself *sigh*
I WANT no NEED to read more from this author as she has got me HOOKED on her :)
April 13, 2014
Evan Dorsey is a handsome baseball player and Sierra Stratton is beautiful, kind, loving and caring photographer. The first time they met there is an instant connection and attraction. Evan still can't move on his mother death, he missed his mom so much it hurts so badly that he didn't like letting people get close to him. Evan life turned upside down and in the end he just wanted to get through the day with his baseball career to make his mother proud.
Sierra was just everything Evan needed without knowing he needed it, she helped him feel, smile, laugh and to do
things he hasn't done since after his mom died. I admire Sierra for her patience and understanding to Evan, the more he pushes her away the closer she seems to get into his heart.
It frustrate me sometimes when Evan try to protect his heart from Sierra that he build a wall between them and push her away from his life because I love Sierra she is super nice to people that sometimes they abuse her kindness. I think Evan is very lucky to have Sierra in his life but as the book progressed I understand Evan just needed time to see that they really belong to each other and I also love how Evan protect and defend Sierra when she got hurt.
Meant for Her is my first Raine Thomas book so I'm not sure what to expect from her but I enjoyed reading the book
I'm sure it won't be my last book from the author. If you want a light and romantic book Meant for Her is the book for you.
Sierra was just everything Evan needed without knowing he needed it, she helped him feel, smile, laugh and to do
things he hasn't done since after his mom died. I admire Sierra for her patience and understanding to Evan, the more he pushes her away the closer she seems to get into his heart.
It frustrate me sometimes when Evan try to protect his heart from Sierra that he build a wall between them and push her away from his life because I love Sierra she is super nice to people that sometimes they abuse her kindness. I think Evan is very lucky to have Sierra in his life but as the book progressed I understand Evan just needed time to see that they really belong to each other and I also love how Evan protect and defend Sierra when she got hurt.
Meant for Her is my first Raine Thomas book so I'm not sure what to expect from her but I enjoyed reading the book
I'm sure it won't be my last book from the author. If you want a light and romantic book Meant for Her is the book for you.
November 5, 2013
4.5 star review!
**ARC provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.**
What can I say about Raine Thomas and her novels? I absolutely love her and her work and cannot wait to see what comes next!
I absolutely loved the story between Evan and Sierra in this novel. The connection between the characters really drew me in to the point that I couldn't put the book down until I had read it cover-to-cover with no breaks. I felt sympathy for Evan while he deals with the loss of his mother, and I just wanted to become best friends with Sierra and support her on her journey to show Evan the love that he deserves no matter how hard he pushes her away.
Throughout the novel I grew extremely frustrated with Evan as he refuses to allow himself to form connections and ties in his new home and with Sierra as he is determined that he will just be leaving anyway. Sierra's persistence was inspiring and I was in awe of the pure love she held for him. Of course there is a major twist in the storyline and I was completely shocked by the events that unfolded. Raine sure knows how to write a captivating novel!
This novel can be read as a standalone but I highly recommend that you read For Everly before Meant For Her as you get an insight into the supporting characters before the timeframe that Meant For Her is set.
**ARC provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.**
What can I say about Raine Thomas and her novels? I absolutely love her and her work and cannot wait to see what comes next!
I absolutely loved the story between Evan and Sierra in this novel. The connection between the characters really drew me in to the point that I couldn't put the book down until I had read it cover-to-cover with no breaks. I felt sympathy for Evan while he deals with the loss of his mother, and I just wanted to become best friends with Sierra and support her on her journey to show Evan the love that he deserves no matter how hard he pushes her away.
Throughout the novel I grew extremely frustrated with Evan as he refuses to allow himself to form connections and ties in his new home and with Sierra as he is determined that he will just be leaving anyway. Sierra's persistence was inspiring and I was in awe of the pure love she held for him. Of course there is a major twist in the storyline and I was completely shocked by the events that unfolded. Raine sure knows how to write a captivating novel!
This novel can be read as a standalone but I highly recommend that you read For Everly before Meant For Her as you get an insight into the supporting characters before the timeframe that Meant For Her is set.
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