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The Hardest Part
Emily Anderson and Reed Alexander are living with pasts they cannot escape.
Emily moved to New York City seeking a fresh start, intending to focus on her career and to keep a low profile.
Reed returns home to New York City after two years, haunted by the same things that pushed him away years ago.
When Reed and Emily meet, their connection is undeniable, but Emily keeps her feelings hidden. Falling in love is the last thing on her mind and she knows the danger it may bring not only to her, but to Reed as well. Reed isn’t as reluctant, but he knows that the demons he’s fighting could destroy Emily.
The harder they try to resist one another, the deeper they fall in love, and the more complicated their lives become.
In the end, they realize that truly loving someone may mean letting them go… and that’s the hardest part.
Emily moved to New York City seeking a fresh start, intending to focus on her career and to keep a low profile.
Reed returns home to New York City after two years, haunted by the same things that pushed him away years ago.
When Reed and Emily meet, their connection is undeniable, but Emily keeps her feelings hidden. Falling in love is the last thing on her mind and she knows the danger it may bring not only to her, but to Reed as well. Reed isn’t as reluctant, but he knows that the demons he’s fighting could destroy Emily.
The harder they try to resist one another, the deeper they fall in love, and the more complicated their lives become.
In the end, they realize that truly loving someone may mean letting them go… and that’s the hardest part.
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First published January 3, 2014
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews
January 28, 2014
If you have not read a Heather London novel before, you are in for a real treat! Heather has a way to capture the reader’s attention and draw you into the story and not let you go! This is my second novel by Ms. London and I am just as impressed as I was with Fall From Love.
My Casting:
The Hardest Party tells the story of young 20-something Emily. Emily has no family but fell in love with Jake; a Las Vegas high roller who is into no good. After a year together he begun to show Emily his true personality and physically and emotionally abused her for years. Emily gets away from Jake and creates a new life in New York City hoping that Jake will never find her. That is when she meets Reed. The mysterious millionaire with a story of his own, that brings them closer together.
Right from the beginning I was completely invested into the story. I loved the character of Emily and felt such a connection to her and immediately cared for her safety after hearing the things Jake said to her and treated her. When she takes off from Vegas for NYC I was cheering Emily on!
Once in NYC, some time goes by and Emily is moving on with her new life and begins to make friends. I LOVED the character of Lexi. She was such a great friend and just a beautiful person inside and out. The two help heal each other in this wonderful friendship and helped heal one another in different ways. Lexi introduces Emily to Reed, her older, protective brother. Reed ladies… let me just say you will LOVE Reed and have a new book boyfriend. He is just an amazingly sweet man I wanted for my very own! He and Emily have this build-up relationship but once they give in the sparks fly!
Part of the story from this part on becomes a bit predictable but it was still a very intriguing story. I couldn’t put the book down and was just waiting for the moment when Jake when discover where Emily was and hunt her down. The suspense was killing me! The story also begins to change from only Emily’s POV to small chapters in Jake & Reed’s as well. Even though I hated the sun of a gun, I wanted to read what Jake was going through back in Las Vegas still looking for Emily. I loved to see him in pain and agony!
The ending I wish had more to it. The story had such a big built-up to the moment Jake would find Emily that when it finally happened I was a bit let down. It all just happened so quickly I wanted more!! The epilogue was nice but the ending was just wrapped up too quickly for me. I guess I was just expecting more from it.
I love Heather London’s writing! That girl can tell a story! I give The Hardest Part 3.5 Stars!
Book provided by the author in return for an honest review.
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My Casting:
The Hardest Party tells the story of young 20-something Emily. Emily has no family but fell in love with Jake; a Las Vegas high roller who is into no good. After a year together he begun to show Emily his true personality and physically and emotionally abused her for years. Emily gets away from Jake and creates a new life in New York City hoping that Jake will never find her. That is when she meets Reed. The mysterious millionaire with a story of his own, that brings them closer together.
Right from the beginning I was completely invested into the story. I loved the character of Emily and felt such a connection to her and immediately cared for her safety after hearing the things Jake said to her and treated her. When she takes off from Vegas for NYC I was cheering Emily on!
Once in NYC, some time goes by and Emily is moving on with her new life and begins to make friends. I LOVED the character of Lexi. She was such a great friend and just a beautiful person inside and out. The two help heal each other in this wonderful friendship and helped heal one another in different ways. Lexi introduces Emily to Reed, her older, protective brother. Reed ladies… let me just say you will LOVE Reed and have a new book boyfriend. He is just an amazingly sweet man I wanted for my very own! He and Emily have this build-up relationship but once they give in the sparks fly!
Part of the story from this part on becomes a bit predictable but it was still a very intriguing story. I couldn’t put the book down and was just waiting for the moment when Jake when discover where Emily was and hunt her down. The suspense was killing me! The story also begins to change from only Emily’s POV to small chapters in Jake & Reed’s as well. Even though I hated the sun of a gun, I wanted to read what Jake was going through back in Las Vegas still looking for Emily. I loved to see him in pain and agony!
The ending I wish had more to it. The story had such a big built-up to the moment Jake would find Emily that when it finally happened I was a bit let down. It all just happened so quickly I wanted more!! The epilogue was nice but the ending was just wrapped up too quickly for me. I guess I was just expecting more from it.
I love Heather London’s writing! That girl can tell a story! I give The Hardest Part 3.5 Stars!
Book provided by the author in return for an honest review.
Stay connected with my reviews, book news and more:
Blog- Jessica’s Book Review | Facebook | Twitter
August 29, 2014
It's amazing how no matter how cliche a storyline is I still pretty much eat it up. This is one of those.
I enjoyed it but it just became too dramatic for my liking - as it should. I guess I wanted more cute not angst. Still, 4 stars for sexy Reed.
I enjoyed it but it just became too dramatic for my liking - as it should. I guess I wanted more cute not angst. Still, 4 stars for sexy Reed.
February 9, 2014
Big thanks to Heather for an ARC copy for review.
I absolutely enjoy Heather London's novels. Her stories manage to pull my emotions right out of me. Whether it's those biting my nails intense moments, sighing with happiness or wanting to curl into a ball and cry, gets me every time and I love it. This novel had plenty of tension, danger, sadness, romance and hope for new beginnings. It definitely reminded me of the movie, Sleeping With The Enemy with Julia Roberts.
Emily is a young woman who has escaped a painful life in Las Vegas. The man (Jake) she thought she knew had changed into someone frighteningly different. She heads to New York for a fresh start. Even with thousands of miles away she can't rid herself of the constant fear, the nightmares, and anxiety. My heart went out Emily for what she went through, but I was proud of how strong and determined she was to not let those things rule her life.
"Then a little voice entered my head, telling me that I was stronger than this. That I didn't have to be afraid. I could do this. I could protect myself. I promised myself that I wouldn't allow Jake to rule my life anymore." ~ Emily
Then there is Reed Alexander, who enters Emily's life when he wants to hire her as an event planner. From the moment they meet their is a connection between the two that is undeniable. Reed was wealthy, gorgeous and attracted the attention of many, but underneath all of that was a sensitive soul just like Emily. He was truly perfect for her. Another couple that I adored was Brandon and Lexi (Reed's sister). The ending had a few surprising twists, but everything ended on a very happy note with the characters.
Review also posted at: http://jesstimetoread.blogspot.com
January 22, 2014
The blurb gives us an idea of where the heroine is in her life:
"Emily moved to New York City seeking a fresh start....and to keep a low profile."
Despite this, Emily does everything BUT keep a low profile when she gets involved (albeit unknowingly and initially, extremely unwillingly) with the very high profile hero, Reed and his equally well known sister, Lexi. The Press practically stalk Reed and Lexi. If you're associated with them in any way, you're going to get noticed.
Initially she DOES take tentative measures to stay away from them. That doesn't last. This I could still overlook. If she thinks she can somehow not have the media publish pics and info of her for all and sundry to see - that's her choice.
The issue I have with Emily is that she knowingly places Lexi and Reed in danger.
Lexi is a vulnerable lovely person who has been through SO much anguish in her life. Her brother and friends try to shield her as best they can because of her painful past. Well aware of these facts, Emily inconsiderately places Lexi in a possibly dangerous situation. She KNOWS how much Lexi has suffered yet she STILL asks Lexi to hide important facts from those who look out for her.
She places Reed directly in danger as well. Makes one mistake after the other, one bad decision after the other and of course nothing good comes of it.
At this stage I don’t care about her wellbeing. I was even more put off by the fact that Reed now felt guilt where he isn’t the one at fault, especially considering that even at this stage I still don’t feel a deep connection between them.
"Emily moved to New York City seeking a fresh start....and to keep a low profile."
Despite this, Emily does everything BUT keep a low profile when she gets involved (albeit unknowingly and initially, extremely unwillingly) with the very high profile hero, Reed and his equally well known sister, Lexi. The Press practically stalk Reed and Lexi. If you're associated with them in any way, you're going to get noticed.
Initially she DOES take tentative measures to stay away from them. That doesn't last. This I could still overlook. If she thinks she can somehow not have the media publish pics and info of her for all and sundry to see - that's her choice.
The issue I have with Emily is that she knowingly places Lexi and Reed in danger.
Lexi is a vulnerable lovely person who has been through SO much anguish in her life. Her brother and friends try to shield her as best they can because of her painful past. Well aware of these facts, Emily inconsiderately places Lexi in a possibly dangerous situation. She KNOWS how much Lexi has suffered yet she STILL asks Lexi to hide important facts from those who look out for her.
She places Reed directly in danger as well. Makes one mistake after the other, one bad decision after the other and of course nothing good comes of it.
At this stage I don’t care about her wellbeing. I was even more put off by the fact that Reed now felt guilt where he isn’t the one at fault, especially considering that even at this stage I still don’t feel a deep connection between them.
January 23, 2014
This is a cute little romance story about two people from very different backgrounds finding each other. Reed & Emily both have painful pasts they're running from but their connection to one another will create a healing they never expected to find again. I really liked the many POV's Ms. London gave us. It was a new twist to have the villain's POV portrayed as well. I couldn't stop reading because I had to know how this story would all play out. The plot twists were definitely surprising as usually I'm able to foresee where they're going to go. This book wasn't as steamy with its scenes or should I say explicit but I still enjoyed it.
February 27, 2014
I have had mixed feelings about ''The Hardest Part''. I confused,bored,wondered a lot.I like the book but I just read so many similiar subjects that sometimes this similiar things might be boring.I could write every inch of the book but I rather not.I want to give 3 star but I'm giving 4 star because I felt those passions :)
May 2, 2016
Review originally posted at Ramblings From This Chick
I have never read a book by Heather London before, but I thought that the blurb for this one really sounded interesting and I loved the cover. I had some mixed feelings with this story, and while there were things that I liked there were also things that just didn't work for me. I think that this story is one that a lot of people will like though, and even though there were things I didn't care for I was interested enough to stick with it. Once I had started, I really wanted to see how everything played out. The Hardest Part was a quick and easy read, and was a mostly entertaining book.
After leaving Las Vegas and her abusive boyfriend Jake, Emily heads to NYC determined to live a new and low key life. She needs to stay out of the spotlight and avoid giving any clues as to where she has run to. She gets a job at an event planning business and begins attending self defense classes. There she meets Lexi, and immediately becomes friends with her. When Emily gets chosen to plan an important event, she learns that Lexi and her brother Reed asked for her specifically. Emily and Reed are immediately attracted to each other and they feel a connection to one another. But with Reed and Lexi's past, they are extremely well known and are constantly being followed and watched. Emily knows that she needs to stay away from Reed, but the more she gets to know him the less she can fight the feelings she is developing. Just when she thinks that she may be able to have it all, her past finds her again putting those she cares about in danger. Can she figure out a way to escape from Jake once and for all and have a future with Reed?
I liked Reed's character, but I feel like we didn't get to know him that well. It was nice to get Reed's POV towards the end of the book, but I really wish that we would have seen it throughout the whole book. I would have really liked to have seen what he was thinking while Emily was trying to avoid him and turn him away. I did like that he was patient with her and he seemed to be extremely understanding. I also loved that he was so persistent with her and didn't allow her to keep pushing him away, even though frankly I didn't understand it. Emily had her moments for me. There were times that I really liked her and then she would do something that irritated me. I liked that she was trying to keep Lexi and Reed out of danger, and I understood why she didn't want to tell them about her past. But I also felt like they had every right to know and she should have been more honest with them after everything that they had been through. She knew she was putting them in danger and yet despite her initial attempts to stay away, I felt like she just continued to knowingly put them at risk. I thought that she was caring and a great friend though, and I liked that she would drop everything and help out when she was needed. I felt like Reed and Emily had a lot of chemistry and they were great together.
But I do feel like Emily and Reed's connection felt a bit rushed. I would have liked to have seen more development between them as I feel like the majority of the story was about Emily starting over. By the time that things were resolved, it was pretty much over. I thought that with the epilogue that we were going to get some closure, but it just ended. I feel like it was really abrupt and could have given the reader more. All those criticisms though didn't keep me from finishing this story or enjoying it. I thought that the characters were likable, and I even enjoyed reading about crazy Jake. It was interesting to get some of his POV, and I thought that it added a lot to the story. This book kept me guessing, and I didn't see everything coming. I was glad that it was able to surprise me, and I enjoyed the twists and turns. I think that this book had a lot of promise, and for the most part it delivered. I would recommend this story if you are looking for a quick and easy read that has some suspense, romance, and is about a heroine that is able to overcome a bad and abusive situation. If you are looking for a deep and emotional connection between the hero and heroine though, this one might not be the one for you. I will look for more from Heather London in the future though because I enjoyed her writing style and i'm interested to see what else she comes up with.
**Review copy provided by Auhor**
I have never read a book by Heather London before, but I thought that the blurb for this one really sounded interesting and I loved the cover. I had some mixed feelings with this story, and while there were things that I liked there were also things that just didn't work for me. I think that this story is one that a lot of people will like though, and even though there were things I didn't care for I was interested enough to stick with it. Once I had started, I really wanted to see how everything played out. The Hardest Part was a quick and easy read, and was a mostly entertaining book.
After leaving Las Vegas and her abusive boyfriend Jake, Emily heads to NYC determined to live a new and low key life. She needs to stay out of the spotlight and avoid giving any clues as to where she has run to. She gets a job at an event planning business and begins attending self defense classes. There she meets Lexi, and immediately becomes friends with her. When Emily gets chosen to plan an important event, she learns that Lexi and her brother Reed asked for her specifically. Emily and Reed are immediately attracted to each other and they feel a connection to one another. But with Reed and Lexi's past, they are extremely well known and are constantly being followed and watched. Emily knows that she needs to stay away from Reed, but the more she gets to know him the less she can fight the feelings she is developing. Just when she thinks that she may be able to have it all, her past finds her again putting those she cares about in danger. Can she figure out a way to escape from Jake once and for all and have a future with Reed?
I liked Reed's character, but I feel like we didn't get to know him that well. It was nice to get Reed's POV towards the end of the book, but I really wish that we would have seen it throughout the whole book. I would have really liked to have seen what he was thinking while Emily was trying to avoid him and turn him away. I did like that he was patient with her and he seemed to be extremely understanding. I also loved that he was so persistent with her and didn't allow her to keep pushing him away, even though frankly I didn't understand it. Emily had her moments for me. There were times that I really liked her and then she would do something that irritated me. I liked that she was trying to keep Lexi and Reed out of danger, and I understood why she didn't want to tell them about her past. But I also felt like they had every right to know and she should have been more honest with them after everything that they had been through. She knew she was putting them in danger and yet despite her initial attempts to stay away, I felt like she just continued to knowingly put them at risk. I thought that she was caring and a great friend though, and I liked that she would drop everything and help out when she was needed. I felt like Reed and Emily had a lot of chemistry and they were great together.
But I do feel like Emily and Reed's connection felt a bit rushed. I would have liked to have seen more development between them as I feel like the majority of the story was about Emily starting over. By the time that things were resolved, it was pretty much over. I thought that with the epilogue that we were going to get some closure, but it just ended. I feel like it was really abrupt and could have given the reader more. All those criticisms though didn't keep me from finishing this story or enjoying it. I thought that the characters were likable, and I even enjoyed reading about crazy Jake. It was interesting to get some of his POV, and I thought that it added a lot to the story. This book kept me guessing, and I didn't see everything coming. I was glad that it was able to surprise me, and I enjoyed the twists and turns. I think that this book had a lot of promise, and for the most part it delivered. I would recommend this story if you are looking for a quick and easy read that has some suspense, romance, and is about a heroine that is able to overcome a bad and abusive situation. If you are looking for a deep and emotional connection between the hero and heroine though, this one might not be the one for you. I will look for more from Heather London in the future though because I enjoyed her writing style and i'm interested to see what else she comes up with.
**Review copy provided by Auhor**
May 27, 2014
It started off good. A girl getting help for getting away from her abusive ex and starting anew somewhere else. But then it just went downhill from there. I hated her interaction with everyone around her.
Okay with Lexi, I did not like how the first half of the book was about her. It really was with her family tragedy and her breakdown with dealing with the media. And apparently it was suppose to be some kind of foundation for Emily and Reed to start their chemistry, which there was none by the way. But really it was Lexi this and Lexi that. How is she? Is she okay?
Good lord.
And with Reed, yeah no chemistry and I was sick and tired of hearing Emily's thoughts, they were just so middle school and childish how she couldn't look him in the eye and got all flustered around him. It was just pathetic. and then she goes to his house because Lexi asked her to and after some dumb event of him being outside in the cold, drinking they have sex though the scene is not typed out. No it just cuts to the next morning and talks about their sexual encounter via flashback and that is when whatever little interest i had left in the book, died and I skipped so many chapters. Then Jake came back into the picture so i was kind of interested to see how that was going to go down but that turned out to be just as predictable as well and I just returned the damn thing.
This book kind of reminded me of On Dublin Street mostly because of Reed and Lexi reminded me of Braden and Ellie though they were much more interesting and so was the book as a whole. And Ellie was not as weak as Lexi. I feel like this book was loosely based off that book and it was not written as good as it could have been.
And I know it was going to happen but it still annoyed me that Emily forgave Christine over the media leakage and how freaking cliche to bow out and let her take over an event she didn't deserve to have. Sick. The boss should have gave it to someone else. If Emily didn't want to do it, fine, but Christine did not deserve it. Oh boo hoo you work your butt off for a mere two years and someone comes in and gets so and so within months. Grow the heck up!
Ugh, painful. Painful, painful, painful. Returned it for a refund. A dollar and six cents isn't much but I'll be dammed if I keep that on my kindle.
Okay with Lexi, I did not like how the first half of the book was about her. It really was with her family tragedy and her breakdown with dealing with the media. And apparently it was suppose to be some kind of foundation for Emily and Reed to start their chemistry, which there was none by the way. But really it was Lexi this and Lexi that. How is she? Is she okay?
Good lord.
And with Reed, yeah no chemistry and I was sick and tired of hearing Emily's thoughts, they were just so middle school and childish how she couldn't look him in the eye and got all flustered around him. It was just pathetic. and then she goes to his house because Lexi asked her to and after some dumb event of him being outside in the cold, drinking they have sex though the scene is not typed out. No it just cuts to the next morning and talks about their sexual encounter via flashback and that is when whatever little interest i had left in the book, died and I skipped so many chapters. Then Jake came back into the picture so i was kind of interested to see how that was going to go down but that turned out to be just as predictable as well and I just returned the damn thing.
This book kind of reminded me of On Dublin Street mostly because of Reed and Lexi reminded me of Braden and Ellie though they were much more interesting and so was the book as a whole. And Ellie was not as weak as Lexi. I feel like this book was loosely based off that book and it was not written as good as it could have been.
And I know it was going to happen but it still annoyed me that Emily forgave Christine over the media leakage and how freaking cliche to bow out and let her take over an event she didn't deserve to have. Sick. The boss should have gave it to someone else. If Emily didn't want to do it, fine, but Christine did not deserve it. Oh boo hoo you work your butt off for a mere two years and someone comes in and gets so and so within months. Grow the heck up!
Ugh, painful. Painful, painful, painful. Returned it for a refund. A dollar and six cents isn't much but I'll be dammed if I keep that on my kindle.
March 30, 2014
OUT's Review
The Hardest Part kept me on the edge of my seat from the beginning to the end. I haven’t read anything like it in a while, which was refreshing. You usually can guess as what is going to happen with this genre but with everything that went on in this book I really didn't have time to guess.
The story starts off with Emily escaping from her abusive boyfriend, Jake, with the help of one of his most trusted friends and employees. She ends up in New York in hopes to keep a low profile and make a happy life for herself. Emily finds a nice little apartment and lands a great job at an event planning firm. Still being scared for her life, Emily takes self-defense classes where she meets a great friend, Lexi.
Jake was a great boyfriend to Emily at one time but after his father dies and he inherits the family casinos he becomes controlling and abusive to the point that Emily doesn’t feel safe. Jake always threatens to kill her if she leaves him thus the reason that Emily is always looking over her shoulder.
Being new to the world of event planning, Emily is quite surprised to be hand-picked for a major charity event. This is where we meet Reed Alexander, a strikingly handsome professional who has the reputation of breaking hearts. Emily and Reed have chemistry from the start but Emily is scared for herself and anybody who gets close to her. Reed is also running from a painful past. Will chemistry be enough for Emily and Reed to start a relationship or are they too damaged by their pasts to move on?
Like I said before, this book was wonderfully unpredictable. It was refreshing to read something different. The suspense kept me on the edge of my seat and engaged with the story. I identified with the characters from the beginning and found my heart being tugged a lot. What was really cool about the book was that we get to know what Jake (the ex) is feeling too. I found myself hating him which, who wouldn’t? I just thought that was kind of unique to see how the villain portrayed himself. In all, this book was way more than I expected and can’t wait to see what Heather London has in store for us next.
The Hardest Part kept me on the edge of my seat from the beginning to the end. I haven’t read anything like it in a while, which was refreshing. You usually can guess as what is going to happen with this genre but with everything that went on in this book I really didn't have time to guess.
The story starts off with Emily escaping from her abusive boyfriend, Jake, with the help of one of his most trusted friends and employees. She ends up in New York in hopes to keep a low profile and make a happy life for herself. Emily finds a nice little apartment and lands a great job at an event planning firm. Still being scared for her life, Emily takes self-defense classes where she meets a great friend, Lexi.
Jake was a great boyfriend to Emily at one time but after his father dies and he inherits the family casinos he becomes controlling and abusive to the point that Emily doesn’t feel safe. Jake always threatens to kill her if she leaves him thus the reason that Emily is always looking over her shoulder.
Being new to the world of event planning, Emily is quite surprised to be hand-picked for a major charity event. This is where we meet Reed Alexander, a strikingly handsome professional who has the reputation of breaking hearts. Emily and Reed have chemistry from the start but Emily is scared for herself and anybody who gets close to her. Reed is also running from a painful past. Will chemistry be enough for Emily and Reed to start a relationship or are they too damaged by their pasts to move on?
Like I said before, this book was wonderfully unpredictable. It was refreshing to read something different. The suspense kept me on the edge of my seat and engaged with the story. I identified with the characters from the beginning and found my heart being tugged a lot. What was really cool about the book was that we get to know what Jake (the ex) is feeling too. I found myself hating him which, who wouldn’t? I just thought that was kind of unique to see how the villain portrayed himself. In all, this book was way more than I expected and can’t wait to see what Heather London has in store for us next.
February 25, 2014
**MEGAN'S REVIEW**
I’ve got to start with what I liked about this story. The writing, the characters, the storyline- they were all very well done. Man in suit enters room, yeah you have me….INSTANTLY!! I have to admit that from the moment I started reading I was hooked. That’s a good thing right?!?!
Well, it is and it isn’t. As I was hooked reading I was left wanting more and more so many times during the story.
Quick.
Quick- that is my word for this story. The whole story was too quick, Reed and Emily getting together was way to quick. It was faster than BOOM. Yeah, there is instant connection and instant lust but with these two I got they were attracted but that was the extent of me believing it.
I loved the different POV’s. I wished Reed would have had more POV’s because then THEN maybe I could have seen him fall for her and helped me connected with them. I enjoyed Jake’s POV the best, being in the villains head is always a treat. Seeing his reactions and how he dealt with it internally. But, his storyline was very rushed at the end for me. He seemed to be so smart and ahead of the game and then it was all nice and tidy taken care of.
What’s funny is rating this a 3, I went back and forth. Even thought I never really connected with the couples, I never wanted to stop. It was never a DNF for me bc it kept me intrigued, also, kept me wanting more. I needed to know how this story would turn out.
The best way I can explain this book is hearsay. It’s all after the fact. Where is the falling? Where is the flirting? Where is the romance??? I wish I could have seen and feel the relationship with my own eyes.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I’ve got to start with what I liked about this story. The writing, the characters, the storyline- they were all very well done. Man in suit enters room, yeah you have me….INSTANTLY!! I have to admit that from the moment I started reading I was hooked. That’s a good thing right?!?!
Well, it is and it isn’t. As I was hooked reading I was left wanting more and more so many times during the story.
Quick.
Quick- that is my word for this story. The whole story was too quick, Reed and Emily getting together was way to quick. It was faster than BOOM. Yeah, there is instant connection and instant lust but with these two I got they were attracted but that was the extent of me believing it.
I loved the different POV’s. I wished Reed would have had more POV’s because then THEN maybe I could have seen him fall for her and helped me connected with them. I enjoyed Jake’s POV the best, being in the villains head is always a treat. Seeing his reactions and how he dealt with it internally. But, his storyline was very rushed at the end for me. He seemed to be so smart and ahead of the game and then it was all nice and tidy taken care of.
What’s funny is rating this a 3, I went back and forth. Even thought I never really connected with the couples, I never wanted to stop. It was never a DNF for me bc it kept me intrigued, also, kept me wanting more. I needed to know how this story would turn out.
The best way I can explain this book is hearsay. It’s all after the fact. Where is the falling? Where is the flirting? Where is the romance??? I wish I could have seen and feel the relationship with my own eyes.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
May 30, 2014
DEFIANTLY HAS 2 or 3 SPOILERS!! READ AT YOUR OWN RISk!!!
Okay! So I have to say after 75% of the book, it started to become more interesting. But I'm not judging this book on only 25% so I didn't give it more than three stars
First of all, Emily kept on saying "it's best for everyone if..." I'm sorry! I must have missed the memo saying that she had been given powers to know what was best for other people!!
Also, what got to me was that she left jake because of the abuse, she even explained what would happen (e.g. He started being demanding, hot and cold behaviour, apologise after, do it again ect) but then that's how Reed was to her until about 60% of the book! He even made things out to sound like Emily was overreacting, then he would apologise, say he would never do it again, then he does...which is exactly what Jake did!! Except jake beat her!
Was that what she was waiting for! Him to hit her?!
I also just didn't understand why, the morning after they finally got together and she left him and felt bad for not at least leaving a note, why she didn't just send him a text or call him if she felt THAT bad about it! Like... This is the 21st century you know!?
Instead she let it get awkward....
The story was also very predictable. I knew Reed wasn't dead, I knew Mike wasn't dead, I knew Emily was pregnant, we all knew Reed would buy Emily that blue dress, it was so obvious when jake was coming for Emily... I could go on for ages but....
Although I have complained about this book, it was an alright read and albeit predictable I did enjoy the last 25% very much! That was the only reason why I rewarded this book with 3 starts!!!
Okay! So I have to say after 75% of the book, it started to become more interesting. But I'm not judging this book on only 25% so I didn't give it more than three stars
First of all, Emily kept on saying "it's best for everyone if..." I'm sorry! I must have missed the memo saying that she had been given powers to know what was best for other people!!
Also, what got to me was that she left jake because of the abuse, she even explained what would happen (e.g. He started being demanding, hot and cold behaviour, apologise after, do it again ect) but then that's how Reed was to her until about 60% of the book! He even made things out to sound like Emily was overreacting, then he would apologise, say he would never do it again, then he does...which is exactly what Jake did!! Except jake beat her!
Was that what she was waiting for! Him to hit her?!
I also just didn't understand why, the morning after they finally got together and she left him and felt bad for not at least leaving a note, why she didn't just send him a text or call him if she felt THAT bad about it! Like... This is the 21st century you know!?
Instead she let it get awkward....
The story was also very predictable. I knew Reed wasn't dead, I knew Mike wasn't dead, I knew Emily was pregnant, we all knew Reed would buy Emily that blue dress, it was so obvious when jake was coming for Emily... I could go on for ages but....
Although I have complained about this book, it was an alright read and albeit predictable I did enjoy the last 25% very much! That was the only reason why I rewarded this book with 3 starts!!!
February 20, 2014
This is a nice book. The story is about learning to empower yourself and trust not only yourself but others. It also is about learning to love again and let people in.
Emily is a scared and confused young lady who has been through alot before coming to New York. There were times I did not like her. Especially with how she was with Reed at first. I understand some of her reactions but still she could be a little more tactful. Overall she is a caring girl just isn't always showing it towards Reed. Her past leaves her scarred and not really trusting herself and others.
Reed is a great guy. caring and sweet. He has had a hard past and feels guilty about things. He takes on the world and others problems without thinking of how it will harm him emotionally. His way of treating his sister like a precious entity is beautiful to see. It's also wonderful to see him do this with Emily too. His patience with her as she tries to figure out what she wants is so sweet.
The most entertaining character is Jake. Sure he is a nut but his total lack of empathy and his obsession with Emily helps to break up the lull in the story. Don't get me wrong the story is good but sometimes you need to add some kind of off key nuttiness to add more flavor and Jake does that. he is evil sure but according to him it is out of love. We always hear about the fine line between love and hate and he personifies that.
I think it would have been wonderful to see more of Reed's POV because it would be fascinating to see how he felt as he was waiting for Emma to figure things out. A nice read that will have you cheer for the characters as they grow and love.
Emily is a scared and confused young lady who has been through alot before coming to New York. There were times I did not like her. Especially with how she was with Reed at first. I understand some of her reactions but still she could be a little more tactful. Overall she is a caring girl just isn't always showing it towards Reed. Her past leaves her scarred and not really trusting herself and others.
Reed is a great guy. caring and sweet. He has had a hard past and feels guilty about things. He takes on the world and others problems without thinking of how it will harm him emotionally. His way of treating his sister like a precious entity is beautiful to see. It's also wonderful to see him do this with Emily too. His patience with her as she tries to figure out what she wants is so sweet.
The most entertaining character is Jake. Sure he is a nut but his total lack of empathy and his obsession with Emily helps to break up the lull in the story. Don't get me wrong the story is good but sometimes you need to add some kind of off key nuttiness to add more flavor and Jake does that. he is evil sure but according to him it is out of love. We always hear about the fine line between love and hate and he personifies that.
I think it would have been wonderful to see more of Reed's POV because it would be fascinating to see how he felt as he was waiting for Emma to figure things out. A nice read that will have you cheer for the characters as they grow and love.
September 17, 2014
4.5 Stars!!
I was so excited to see another Heather London Book. Fall from love is one of my favorite books.
I started reading this book yesterday and I'm like I'll read it slowly you know at bedtime for a few minutes. Bla ya scratch that. I started yesterday and was up til like midnight then got up this morning and finished it lol.
I really liked this book. I liked Reed-I do wish we would have had more from his POV sooner in the book. I enjoyed the premise behind this book and don't think the blurb does it justice.
I do feel like something was missing and I can't pin point it. Like feel like a disconnect from the characters or maybe like the relationship sort of just happened and just not enough behind it to really get into it or feel the connection or something. But regardless I liked the plot. I liked the angst of the crazy ex boyfriend deal. And I really enjoyed the characters-again, Reed and Emily, Lexi and Brandon and the little bit we had of Mike as well.
Awesome book that I'm sure I'll read a couple more times :)
I was so excited to see another Heather London Book. Fall from love is one of my favorite books.
I started reading this book yesterday and I'm like I'll read it slowly you know at bedtime for a few minutes. Bla ya scratch that. I started yesterday and was up til like midnight then got up this morning and finished it lol.
I really liked this book. I liked Reed-I do wish we would have had more from his POV sooner in the book. I enjoyed the premise behind this book and don't think the blurb does it justice.
I do feel like something was missing and I can't pin point it. Like feel like a disconnect from the characters or maybe like the relationship sort of just happened and just not enough behind it to really get into it or feel the connection or something. But regardless I liked the plot. I liked the angst of the crazy ex boyfriend deal. And I really enjoyed the characters-again, Reed and Emily, Lexi and Brandon and the little bit we had of Mike as well.
Awesome book that I'm sure I'll read a couple more times :)
January 24, 2014
I like contemporary romance/suspense, but not as much as paranormal romance usually. The Hardest Part was definitely the exception. It was an awesome book.
Emily was such a strong character, I admired her strength throughout the story. Don't get me started on Reed. Gah! What a great guy. I need a Reed in my life :)
I love Heather London's paranormal series, but this is by far her best book. Writing this shows she has diversity and the skill to write outside her genre. For that, I give her props. It's not easy to do.
Overall, I LOVED this book. It's an adult book, fyi. I'm giving The Hardest Part five glittery stars for being a breath of fresh air!
Emily was such a strong character, I admired her strength throughout the story. Don't get me started on Reed. Gah! What a great guy. I need a Reed in my life :)
I love Heather London's paranormal series, but this is by far her best book. Writing this shows she has diversity and the skill to write outside her genre. For that, I give her props. It's not easy to do.
Overall, I LOVED this book. It's an adult book, fyi. I'm giving The Hardest Part five glittery stars for being a breath of fresh air!
February 19, 2014
Is it bad that I liked Jake the most in this story. I think I just like his alpha male persona not the woman beating part. I mean I think I just like the his dialogue in the story. Emily was strong and a really good friend and I think she really wanted to forget her past with Jake. But there were times she drove me crazy. I wanted Reed to be a little more alpha male. Sometimes he came across as weak. But he did show a little strength at the end of the book. I will admit, I was a little unsure about his statement "I haven't been with someone in years", like really. But I still enjoyed reading the story and the storyline was great. A minor suspense story with some sweet love in the middle..
February 27, 2014
Too rushed
While I think this book is well written and I loved the storyline, it felt very rushed. The characters were good enough but had very little depth. This is a love story but you miss all the moments that lead to the characters falling in love. Reed is a nice guy but so what? what makes him the one. Yes, he is nice and good-looking but that's pretty much it. The book moves too fast and 65% through you find you could care less about the main characters and just want it to end.
While I think this book is well written and I loved the storyline, it felt very rushed. The characters were good enough but had very little depth. This is a love story but you miss all the moments that lead to the characters falling in love. Reed is a nice guy but so what? what makes him the one. Yes, he is nice and good-looking but that's pretty much it. The book moves too fast and 65% through you find you could care less about the main characters and just want it to end.
August 19, 2014
2.5 Stars
Great premise with just okay characters.
The romance between Emily and Reed was not believable to me. She was running from an abusive ex. She moved from a penthouse in Vegas to NYC. her new BFF happens to be rich.
Emily was a nice person. Reed was a rich, attractive guy, but I think he was a bit weak. The only thing that gave him strength was his money. I think Emily was mentally stronger than him.
I noticed myself skimming a lot. The writing was a bit wordy.
Great premise with just okay characters.
The romance between Emily and Reed was not believable to me. She was running from an abusive ex. She moved from a penthouse in Vegas to NYC. her new BFF happens to be rich.
Emily was a nice person. Reed was a rich, attractive guy, but I think he was a bit weak. The only thing that gave him strength was his money. I think Emily was mentally stronger than him.
I noticed myself skimming a lot. The writing was a bit wordy.
February 14, 2014
i was drawn in from the first chapter. one of the things i liked about this was the few chapters in the book where we got to read jakes pov and how twisted he is. and also by reading that i got to know ahead of time that something was going to happen and it built up the anticipation. everything came together like it should with a few twists. i really liked it.
October 11, 2015
Disappointing. It seems common for romance novels to skip the build up and just throw the two main characters together. This story had not build up or character evolution. The two main characters saw each other and were automatically 'in love'. It found it to be unbelievable. The action part of the story was good but the romance part not so much.
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January 5, 2014The Hardest Part is now live!
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January 12, 2014
This is the first book I read from this author and I have to say I loved it! I couldn't put it down. It was a great quick read! I definitely recommend this one, and I will checking out more from this author.
January 12, 2014
More of a 3.5. Sweet , good read. Mild heat. Really liked Emily. Very strong heroine. Couldn't connect well with Reed. I think I needed more from his character. Surprisingly I liked Jake, our baddie. Decidedly venal person and gave me the willies. All in all a good read.
July 24, 2016
I thought this was ok. I enjoyed the story and thought it was exciting, but I just never connected with Reed and Emily as a couple. He fell really fast and I just never felt their connection. I did finish the book so it engaged me enough to want to complete.
January 22, 2014
totally fell in love with reed <3
this book was really good ... I would have liked more intimate times between them an maybe a scene from how it was before she got on the bus. but I thought this book was great! :-)
this book was really good ... I would have liked more intimate times between them an maybe a scene from how it was before she got on the bus. but I thought this book was great! :-)
January 25, 2014
Emily lives the life under the thumb of her abusive boyfriend for thee long years. When given the chance to start over hoping to live her life of the radar she ends up straight in the limelight.
Great characters and remained interesting!
Great characters and remained interesting!
January 30, 2014
I really enjoyed reading this book, however I have so much questions. Do they get married? Did they have a boy/girl? What happened to Mike? For me it could have ended on a better note and let the readers handing.
September 11, 2014
At first I was a little hesitant about this book but when I started it, I couldn't put it down.The story's told in a smooth way and I loved the heroes and I felt bad for Jake but he got what he deserved.
February 9, 2014
3.5 stars-4 stars, I cant decide! easy read, good plot. I like the strong female role of the heroin. I liked that the girls were fighters who didn't over reactto situations. this made it all feel more believable. I would recommend this book.
December 7, 2013
beta reader!! loved! full review to come.
July 26, 2015
Emotional is one way to put it. I laughed, I cried this was a great book. Really felt along with all the characters. I loved it
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