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Flawlessly Broken #1

Finding Solace

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Sadie Warren is a walking contradiction. The confidence she wears on the outside is only to cover the scars that are imbedded on her soul. Coming out of an abusive relationship where she was stripped of her security and confidence, she chooses to bury it under every man she gives her body to.

After one intoxicated night that she will never remember in its entirety, everything begins to change. Being seen more for her positive attributes and less for her faults, Sadie arises from the dark and into a place she feels safe. But with that comes a chain of events that blur the lines of everything she thought she needed and everything she's beginning to want.

Will fear keep her from the one thing she believes she desires most or will fate take a turn unexpectedly and change everything?

551 pages, Paperback

First published November 24, 2013

16 people are currently reading
535 people want to read

About the author

Barbara Speak

12 books245 followers
I have a mad passion for books. It could be considered an addiction by some. After the responsibilities of work and being a mother are fulfilled each day, I escape in a book. I hope you all will enjoy what I can bring you. I have plenty more ideas to go from here.

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33 (15%)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 75 reviews
Profile Image for Beautiful_Jade.
1,943 reviews
March 18, 2014
DNF. This book has such great reviews that it has me thinking the problem is me and not the book.

I just found the characters so unlikeable.

All they seemed to do is drink until they can't remember what they've done.

They treat each other like shit yet all is forgiven.

And the fact that everyone is so beautiful makes it even more unlikeable/unbelievable.

Not my type of book sadly.
Profile Image for Anny hernandez.
1,181 reviews13 followers
January 7, 2014
***** I received an ARC copy for an honest review *****

Let me just start by saying this is the first book I read from this author.

O.M.G. Holy Smoke I just finish reading this book, and let me just say that I felt in love with it, their is so much going in this story, we have Drama, Broken hearts, Romance, you name it and you will find it in this book, I have to say that this book had me crying, Angry that some time I just felt like throwing my kindle across the room, but I love every single minute of it, I took my time reading this book cause I did not wanted to finish, but what can I say all good thing must come to an end, I love the characters love how the friends treat each other like a family and how they all have each others back.

Love the character of Sadie, she has being through so much, she was in an abusive relationship in high school, that after she got out of that she started to make choices that where not so good. She started to enjoy her life partying, drinking and just having a good time, but she prove to her self and everyone else how strong of a woman she is, I have to say that Sadie made me so mad sometime cause of the choice that she kept making, but I have to say I love her attitude, and love to see her grow up from the young lady to a beautiful woman that know what she want.

The character of Colt let me just say that I couldn't stand him, Colt made me want to get him out of the book and slap some sense into him, I couldn't stand his attitude to me was just the biggest jerk. sorry but nothing would make me like him at all.

Love the character of Ash, can I just say oh Ash he such a sweet heart, sexy with a great body, love his attitude, he knows what he wants and he get what he wants I just love him.

Love the group specially Tony what can I say, Tony has the heart of gold, Love the brother Mike I would have love to read more about him, love the other brother Jason his just awesome, love Shawn, Dave, Bryan, I just love them all, Love Heather Sadie best friend, love how they get to party and how the male protect Heather and Sadie like they where their sister.

I really enjoy reading this book, this story anyone could relate too, this story is from Sadie point of view, but I love it she tell her story like if she was actually reading a book aloud, I was so relieve when she made her choice on who she pick to love, I am so happy that she pic the right one cause I was ruling for him LOL, now I just want more of this story or this characters I jut love it.

Author Barbara Speak THANK YOU for introducing me to this awesome characters and this amazing book.
I hope that once you guys read it that you get to enjoy it and love it as much as I did.
Profile Image for Lou Ann.
3 reviews
November 18, 2013
Fantastic!!! Holds your attention the whole time. You can't put it down. This book is a rollercoaster of emotions following Sadie through her relationships. Bring some Kleenex. This is a must read. Great job Barb.
Profile Image for Natascha Housen.
461 reviews14 followers
November 17, 2013
A BRILLIANT STORY THAT HAD ME HOOKED FROM THE BEGINNING. A MUST READ PEOPLE!!!
5 Big Stars from me.
Well done Barbara, i am looking forward to reading your next book?
Profile Image for Page Turning Book Junkie.
101 reviews20 followers
February 25, 2014
*ARC provided in exchange for honest review* Find your next fix: http://www.pageturningbookjunkie.blog...

4 out of 5 Emotional Gripping, It's Raining Hot Men, Passionate Stars!

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Wowza...wide range of emotions that a normal person would need some sort of decoder ring to decipher! This is another unexpected debut novel by a new author that will definitely leave it's mark on you. I think I just found my new favorite indulgence...stumbling upon new authors that blow my mind with well written amazing books I didn't see coming! Hey, it's gratifying and doesn't come with the added calories my chocolate fudge brownie packs. If you wouldn't have told me that this was Barbara Speak's first novel, I would have never been the wiser. The story was gripping and emotional...everything to keep you pleasantly frustrated and on the edge of your love seat. Colton and Sadie's connection was complicated, passionate, and deep. The emotional layers were stacked up and you just knew that eventually it will all come crashing down, but you couldn't tear your eyes or heart away even if you tried. After being involved in an abusive relationship, Sadie was still trying to find her place and decipher her inner insecurities and emotions. This is the story of her journey to healing and all the unsuspecting pitfalls that lie ahead.

"Having sex with different guys but never getting attached, meant that we could still be friends but they would always come back for more. And with each time, I felt a sense of power. However, lately I had been feeling different. I really didn't want the power, I just didn't want them to have it either. Finding that balance was tricker than I thought." -Sadie

While Sadie was still battered and bruised on the inside from her previous relationship, she tried to find her way back into the light. She had a great group of friends and a job that she loved. After one night of uninhibited drinking, she awoke to a foreign bed and a sexy man, which she apparently had a wildly hot night with. Unfortunately, all she could remember about him was her not so gracious introduction from the night before. Colt is devastatingly hot and eager to get more of Sadie. He becomes her guide into her emotional journey of self discovery. Colt finds a way to make Sadie feel strong, confident, and cherished. Colt has his own baggage and has come back to school for a second chance at his missed youth. Due to his current state of mind, their relationship is kept casual, but is nonetheless profound to them both no matter how much they attempted to disguise it from everyone, including themselves.

"Well then listen here woman. I've had to sit back and watch every dick head here tonight talk to you, touch you, dance with you. Eyeball you like they are going to fuck you. It is my turn. I need you Sadie. It's past want. Please come home with me. I'm not asking for sex. I just need you tonight. Please." -Colt

Colt and Sadie continue to play their emotional game of cat and mouse back and forth, with Colt pulling away every time things got too deep. Sadie struggles to burry her true feelings for Colt in order to keep him in her life. The effect that Colt has on her is to intense to let him go, so she takes whatever he will give to her. While this internal battle tests her limits, she finds a bit of comfort in another willing new tall hunk of man meat. Ash was a delightful surprise to the already confused Sadie.

"You, my beautiful, are single handedly the most spectacular person I have ever met. The idea that not only do I get the opportunity to know you, but get to experience what we have together with you. I am one very lucky man Sadie. I don't take for granted what I get to share with you, but you need to take care of you first." -Colt

Ash was amazing to Sadie. He was a gentle and caring gentlemen wrapped in a hot sexy package. Let the swooning commence. Ash is determined to do things right with Sadie, because he wants her true emotions. Can Sadie ever truly let go of Colt? Will Ash's patience be strong enough to wait for something that may never happen? Will Colt finally let go of his misguided views and admit his true feelings? Or will it all come to late? So many questions and possibilities. Fate for many people can be a hidden blessing, but for some it can be a cruel and unfair bitch. Timing is everything, and this story does a perfect job at showing you why.

"Everything I have been through so far has set me up for where I am now. I would not take back a thing. Mistakes can be the best learning experiences. The most important lesson I believe I have learned is, never be afraid to fail or you can never reach the goal you were trying to achieve. I could not be happier with how this chapter of my life turned out." -Sadie

This was a fantastic debut novel that I enjoyed every step of the way. Just when you think you have it all figured out and you are sure of the outcome...BAM! You get thrust into another direction you didn't see coming. My emotions were left a dizzy mess from being run through the spin cycle, but it just made me love the story all the more. With the amount of romance novels I have read, it is hard to still surprise me, and this book did a superb job. Keep your eye on this series and amazing author. She just released a novella for this series, Affliction (Finding Solace #1.5), which is Colt's side of the story. Hmmmm....I wonder what he has to say about all this mess?

Find me at: http://www.facebook.com/pageturningbo...
Blog: http://www.pageturningbookjunkie.blog...
4 reviews
November 17, 2013
THIS BOOK IS FANTASTIC!
I really do not know where to start. The development of characters is superb. Sadie faces hard designs in her life and I was there living it with her. I cried, I laughed, I empathized all thanks to the down to earth story. There is so much love between those lines! I really admit to hating love triangles and but you can't help but understand and support Sadie's decision. Whats so great about this book is that it had me (I admit openly) bawlling for Sadie's love for Colt and radiantly smiling for her love for Ash. Its rare for a reader to not be biased towards a character, but Barbara makes it impossible through her writing to hate a character, because no matter what they are all so basically human. Great and difficult love story, passionate read, peaceful ending. Simply beautiful. I hope sincerely all of you pick up this book, because it is so worth it. Best of luck Barbara!!! <3




Profile Image for Angie.
2 reviews
January 10, 2014
I absolutely loved this book. This book had me laughing out loud and crying myself to sleep. I was intrigued with Sadie's life and the "love triangle" in this book. I loved to hate Colt. Ive always liked the "bad boys" and I had a soft spot in my heart for him. However, Ash stole my heart. He really was too good to be true. I could definitely relate to these characters and couldn't put this book down. This book was like a modern-day fairy tale. I'm sorry it is over and think I might actually read it again. Can't wait for Barbara's next book.
Profile Image for Linda Macchiarola-balser.
9 reviews
January 12, 2014
Barb did a great job on her first book. Characters are easy to relate to. Story keeps you interested. I don't know how to write a review without spoiling the ending so...give it a try yourself. :)
Profile Image for Joey.
27 reviews9 followers
December 18, 2013
Such a sweet book and so easy to relate to... totally loved it! I recommend that everyone read this book. I really hope this author sticks with it and writes more!!
2 reviews
January 4, 2014
A must read

Love this book. did not want to put it down. ( my boyfriend could verify that)
a good read for any woman..
Profile Image for For the Love of Books.
755 reviews28 followers
February 27, 2014
Wow…. I know, kinda clichéd, but oh WOW! I’m gonna tell ya, up until the midway point of “Finding Solace” I was gonna rate this at around 2.5 or 3 stars… not horrible, not great…just somewhere in the middle of “meh land”. We’re introduced to the main female character, Sadie at that transitional age and life-point where she’s on the cusp of real adulthood… several years outta high school, a few months out from her 21st birthday and just living and enjoying the hell outta life. What’s really interesting is the author, Barbara Speak, wrote this book not just from Sadie’s POV, but almost as if Sadie is narrating her own story to you. I don’t believe I’ve ever come across this in a book before…I liked it.

Ok, so let me tell ya a little about Sadie…because this is really her journey and she had the most impact on me. Sadie is the reason why I was initially thinking of a lower rating for this book, she’s also the reason why I ended up rating it higher! Sadie has some lingering emotional baggage from an abusive relationship she suffered in high school, which affects her present lifestyle and relationships. Now, I can obviously sympathize with Sadie for the abuse she was subjected to and admire the strength she found to break free from that. What I absolutely hated about Sadie was that she just came off as a shallow, vapid “party-girl” alcoholic. Sadie just seemed so lacking in anything and everything of any real worth and substance. I was pretty disappointed because I had an almost immediate connection to every other character in Sadie’s story, they all seemed so well developed and worked well with the flow of the story as individuals but also with this amazing dynamic they had as a group. So, why did Sadie’s character seem so lacking in personality and depth? Then I got it…and I realized the brilliance of Barbara’s talent as an author… we had to see Sadie as she was in the beginning, to truly appreciate her personal growth to an amazing woman that not only we could love as the reader, but Sadie could love as well.

Now for the love/lust interests… did ya notice the (s) on the end of interests? Yeah, there is a love/lust triangle… and I usually hate those types of things…but again we get the benefit of Barbara’s talent in that, even though it’s not an ideal situation that anyone would like to be in, it’s part of Sadie’s discovery of what she truly wants and what she needs. Let’s talk about these two men, Colt and Ash…and how completely different the both are.

Colt… I really wanted to hate him… yeah, he’s totally hot and sexy and sensual and… and… did I say hot, sexy? I hated the fact that Colt knew Sadie was falling for him and couldn’t give her what she wanted… I hated that he couldn’t commit to Sadie and only Sadie, and I hated that he just kept making such stupid choices… but, I just couldn’t hate Colt… he did give everything he could to Sadie when he was with her, he did protect her and was an integral part of Sadie’s growth and better understanding of herself. But the main reason why I couldn’t hate Colt… he was up front and honest with Sadie about what he was and was NOT looking for in not just his relationship with her, but in all his current relationships. Colt actually told Sadie many times that he was NOT looking for a wife or girlfriend… really any kind of committed relationship with her or anyone else at this time in his life. Yeah, I hated a lot of the things Colt did, but he never led Sadie on with mixed signals or false emotions, and I can at least respect that. If anything, I was pissed at Sadie for allowing herself to feel as if she didn’t deserve more and kept putting up with Colt’s lifestyle.

Ok, now on to Ash…I couldn’t find anything NOT to LOVE about Ash…totally hot, sexy, and confident and so got his shyte together. I love a man that knows what he wants and will not accept anything less, will not compromise their integrity or character… oh, and having charm and an 8-pack abs certainly doesn’t hurt! Ash is just sooo lickable…*cough* I mean uh.. likable! And the best thing about Ash is that he’s not afraid to let Sadie know his feelings for her and the happiness that he knows Sadie deserves, he is only more than willing to give her, if she will just let him. And… as corny as it sounds, I loved that Ash wanted to develop a friendship with Sadie and was not willing to jump right to sex with her is she couldn’t give him some kind of commitment towards a relationship with him… because Ash doesn’t share!

“Finding Solace” is an amazing story and Barbara Speak is such a talented author…I’m really looking forward to her next book “Affliction”…Colt’s story and POV!
4.5 Stars ~Kathy
Profile Image for Jennifer.
2,089 reviews92 followers
February 12, 2014
**ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review**

~~ 3.5 Stars ~~

I am going to start by saying that this review is kind of difficult for me to write. The reason being I have some serious mixed feelings about this book. I did enjoy the book, but I didn't love it. I'll admit I was nervous going into the book because I kept seeing that it is a love triangle, and I openly admit I am not a fan of triangles. ( I try to avoid them at all cost…lol ) I am glad that the idea of it being a triangle didn't scare me off, because this book isn't your typical triangle. Yes there is 1 girl and 2 guys, but the heroine is never with both men at the same time. So to me that made this triangle tolerable. To me the only time the triangle came into play is when she had to make a decision on which guy to spend her life with. I will however not tell you the answer to that question. You will have to read the book to find that out ;) Let me just say I was extremely happy with the way this book ended. I truly felt that Sadie's journey came full circle and I thought she made the right decision for herself and her future. I thought the storyline was well developed and flowed rather well, what I had trouble with was the length of the book. This book is 551 pages, and to me that is a long time to keep any readers attention. I found that this book was kind of slow in spots. I felt that it could've been condensed in spots without losing any information of the storyline. What I did like was that this books characters were very well developed and you really felt like you were apart of their group of friends. This book didn't lack in emotion at all. I definitely felt a wide range of emotions while reading this book. Now normally I wouldn't ever say this but I thought this book was mild when it came to drama and angst. I thought being a triangle we would've seen more drama, but because the 2 guys aren't really in the book at the same time we didn't get the drama factor. I kind of missed it.

This story is truly an inside look in to the Journey Sadie must take to become a better person for herself. We find out Sadie was in an abusive relationship in high school which has left her broken and scarred. The way Sadie handled this wasn't in the best way. I will say that right off the bat I loved Sadie's character but then once she met Colt, I have to say that she started to aggravate me. She was a strong person and was willing to stand up for herself and also had no problem putting Colt in his place, but as soon as Colt would whisper sweet nothings in her ear she would melt like butter on a hot day. She backed down so many times I wanted to smack her. But as the story unfolded we actually got to see a stronger and better Sadie in the long run. I see that the way she was with Colt was just a stepping stone for her to become the better person. As for Colt….I had a real love/hate relationship with him for the whole book. One minute he was the sweetest guy and the next I wanted to junk punch him. His part of the story is the first 50% of the book, until he resurfaces later in the story (to add that little drama effect) By the time Ash was introduced into the story I was ready to say bye bye to Colt. I was glad that Colt's behavior with Sadie was explained later in the story. It made me like him in the end of the book. As for Asher ( Ash )…..he made this book for me. I loved him. Talk about someone who was to good to be true. He felt that Sadie was a princess and he treated her like one. I loved the second half of this book. You really do need to read this book to experience Ash's true effect :)

This book was stocked full with amazing secondary characters. There are so many that I truly can't single out just one or two that I liked the best. Sadie truly had some really great friends. I also liked that we got mini side stories for some of these characters so we got to watch what was happening in their lives as well.

Would I recommend this book…… YES. I thought it was an interesting story. So if you like triangles and books that are on the longer side, then this book is for you.


For more reviews go to www.bookbitchesblog.com
Profile Image for ✨Cassie ✨.
531 reviews5 followers
January 27, 2014
In life we are introduced to certain people who will make a difference, for Sadie that statement couldn't be truer. When you love something so much, it isn't easy to let it go.


Sadie has had her heart and spirit broken by someone who she thought loved her. Trying to get pass that hurt she has given her body to guys and drowned her sorrows in drinks.

A chance encounter will forever change Sadie's life. A man that will show her how beautiful she is, how important she is and how she should believe in herself. Their friendship mean's everything to Sadie, and maybe, just maybe she could have feelings for him.


"I'm serious Sadie. I never want to see you sad. You deserve the world, beautiful. You deserve the best a man can offer. I never want you to settle for anything less." -Colt


There is always special people that are brought into our life. Either to teach us or show us stuff we couldn't see for our self, and that is who Colt is to Sadie.

With an amazing circle of friends who are there no matter what. They are all each others backbones. They are more then friends, they are family. The life Sadie knows will soon change, but will it all be for the best or the worst?

When decision's and ultimatums are on the table, what will Sadie choose?

"Oh girl, you're already my dream come true. Now my life's mission is make all yours happen."

*This reviewer's thoughts*
Finding Solace has a great group of characters that I loved. This book is full of love, pain, heart ache and laughter. I seriously laughed so hard a few times while reading this book. When you get to those parts, you'll understand. This story follows Sadie's ups and downs for about three plus years, in that time you will find yourself probably wanting to throw something at Sadie or wanting to punch Colt. I know I did! I wanted her to throw him out, but she couldn't and now I know why. I gave this book 4 stars, not because I didn't like it, because I did. To me this book could have been made into two books, it was really long and I found myself rushing through it because of that fact. A story too long isn't a bad thing, but I felt it could have been even better into two books. I know, who cry's over a book being too long? I guess I do. Other than that I enjoyed Sadie's book. I liked how she would talk to the readers and how she comes full circle. It truly is a story of finding your true love and everything that comes with that. Sadie grows so much during this book and I love seeing the lady she became. Reader's will be shocked and in awe at a certain point and think "Damn I didn't see that coming." I can't forget about the great group of friends she has around her, I need some like those. Drunk bowling, Demolition Ball, need I say more? I can't wait to see what the author does next. 4 STARS!
Profile Image for Tbird London.
558 reviews4 followers
December 6, 2014
Sadie a 20 year old hair dresser, who is nursing a crushed heart, had decided to fix her problems with sex and alcohol. I swear there are times I wonder if she isn’t an alcoholic the way she drinks, but she is also surrounded by a group of friends who seems to take care of her and make sure she is protected. One night she meets Colt, the sexy alpha male that I could never completely understand.
One minute he is the man of our dreams, the next he just disappears for a week or more at a time. Sadie always took him back though. She played games with him as far as not letting him know he was getting to her, when she saw him with someone else she would try to make him jealous. During one of those times when she was going to assert her independence from Colt, she ran into Ash again. He was a few years older than her but they had met in high school.
He was drawn to Sadie immediately and treated her like a Princess. He was sending her flowers, taking her out, always being there. While she was experiencing this kind of love, Colt’s time had come to an end. It was time for goodbye for Sadie and Colt. You could tell they both loved each other but words continued to get in the way of expressing that.
By the end of the book Colt has come back, Ash is still very much in the picture and Sadie is left with a huge decision, who does she love versus who is she in love with. I know this sounds like a love triangle but it really isn’t. This is more of an unfortunate timing for Colt and a balance of trust for Ash. Sadie makes her choice and all I can say is I am glad I wasn’t in her shoes, because that was a difficult decision to make.
The story had many characters, so many at times it felt confusing keeping them all straight in the beginning but the author did a good job at developing each one into their role for the story. I would have happily given this a five star rating, except for one major problem I had. The book is so very long, yet the big scenes were solved so quickly. Within a few pages she had made the biggest choice of her life, yet we had to read so many pages of things that didn’t really add to the story. I give her major kudos for her writing style and the ability to put a story like this together, but next book, and yes I really hope there is a next book, I would love to see more event development instead of pages of details and description of issues that really don’t add to the story.
The author gave us everything we could ask for though in the emotion range. I laughed, wanted to cry a few times, left me on the edge of my seat for brief moments, intrigue and a wonderful love story. Sadie is a strong female character, one that we can all admire at times but I wished we had seen more of the actual story and less of the extras so we could have really invested our total attention to Sadie, Colt and Ash.
Profile Image for Leia.
255 reviews8 followers
January 30, 2014


There are so many books out there. Truly an inordinate amount of books that center around two specific people and their journey together. And while, on the whole, these are my kind of books – it’s truly refreshing to get something different.

Yes, Finding Solace has love. But it’s not centered around a particular “couple”. Honestly, this story is about Sadie Warren. Period. This is Sadie’s journey. Her life. And it is absolutely awesome to read about so many of the things that we all experience.

Sadie is in college. She has a wonderful group of friends, a great family and overall a pretty great life. However, after an abusive relationship with her ex, she is (understandably) leery of trusting men. But, when she finds it in her to give someone a chance, it really is a beautiful thing.

I don’t want to give too much of what happens away, because that would just spoil the book – and it is definitely something that you should experience for yourself.

Suffice to say that Sadie is lucky enough to fall in love over and over. And you are right there to do it with her. I am not talking about jumping from guy to guy and a bunch of “insta-love” here. I am talking about all different kinds of love.

You get to feel the slow building, everlasting love of finding a new best friend.
You get to experience the kind of love that brings you from the person you were to the person you need to be – right when you need it the most.
And you get to find the most beautiful love. A truly selfless, soul deep kind of love that only happens once in a lifetime.

I know that everyone has experienced some type of love in their life, so I feel like everyone will be able to relate to this story.
I will say – there are a few times I just wanted to SMACK Sadie. Shake her shoulders and say “WAKE UP WOMAN!!”. However, when I got to thinking about it, I realized – hindsight is 20/20. And if I was in her shoes, I would be doing a lot of things the same way.

There is so much…..STORY here. And I know that my review is sparing on the details, but trust me when I say there is a reason for that. Just know that this book is full of life.

Life isn’t always pretty, but it’s always beautiful in the end. And that’s the best way I can think to describe this book.

Grab yourself a copy and settle in for lots of laughs, a few tears and a happy heart.

4.5 Stars
57 reviews6 followers
February 13, 2014
I was given the pleasure of receiving an ARC (advance reading copy) of this book and it was truely a pleasure to read.

If you like roller coaster rides with twists and turns when you’re reading then this book is definatly for you because it contains twists and turns and when you think you’re on the right track bam another surprise turn. It will certainly keep you on your toes from start to finish. Its a book that will make you laugh, cry (so definatly have some tissues handy), groan, scream and knock some sense into the characters.

This stand alone novel follows the life of Sadie Warren, a victim of an abusive relationship who finds it hard to trust any man enough to have a relationship with. She finds it easier to have no-strings attached sex with various partners then get involved. Anyone that’s been in her shoes would probably make the same decision, so don’t judge!! That all changes when after getting drunk one night she ends up in bed with Colton, or Colt as he likes to be called. Their relationship is classed as “no-strings attached” until Sadie’s feeling develop into something more which turns out to be all one-sided. Colt is a complicated person who Sadie tries to give the benefit of doubt to, but in turn its all a waste.

Just when you thought that Sadie is destined to end up alone and broken hearted all over again, enter Ash, the knight in shining Armour to rescue Sadie and walk off into the sunset to their happily ever after!!!

This book is a definate must read! The main and supporting characters are superb and the emotion is real and heartfelt and almost make you feel like you’re a part of their journey from start to finish. I hate love triangles in books and even though I felt Sadie ended up with the wrong man, Im glad that she got her happily ever after.

I’m looking forward to future books from Barbara Speak. If Finding Solace is anything to go by, then they’ll be awesome.

**** out 5
Profile Image for Jennifer Juers.
418 reviews
February 10, 2014
I wish I could give more than a 5 star rating on this book, but that's the max!

I connected with Sadie's character right away. She talks to you, the reader while telling her story, which I have never come across in any book I've read. Her choices, not so much. At times, I was laughing with her, yelling at her, and then crying with her. This book was an emotional roller coaster. There were happy times when things were going perfectly and then one decision would change it all. Someone would come into her life and make it better, but not necessarily complete. Who could complete that circle? Would she ever be fully happy? You've read about love triangles, yes? Well, you are going to find one and a little more in this book!

Colt. This man was gorgeous bad-boy that refused to change for anyone. We had a love/hate relationship. The choices he made had me cringing in my seat. I wanted to smack him right upside his head. His ways made me want to throw my kindle and have a major talk with Sadie and ask her WTF was she thinking? In the end, would he make the ultimate sacrifice and commit?

I loved Tony right away and thought that they would be together through it all. Unfortunately, my fairytale didn't come true. But can they have the best friendship that a male and female can have or will they be the worst of enemies?

Then there was Ash. Mmmmm mmmmm mmmm. He has a way with words that would melt your heart. He also has the best way to make a pizza and you can't beat that! Trust me. Will he be the one to shine? Or will she break his heart?

So which man will complete her circle? Will she have her happily ever after? Download the book today you won't regret it.

Congrats Barbara for writing an excellent book that had me hooked from the first page! You must, must, must write more.
39 reviews4 followers
July 11, 2014
Omg I have just finished reading this book and I wish I'd have read it sooner, wow amazing doesnt seem to cover it with this book. It will literally have your heart feeling like it's going to escape from your chest reading it.
The way Barb wrote it so it was Sadie telling you her story I thought that was wickedly brilliant..... it was a long book and the story was jam packed but that I no way put me off, it was set over a 2 year span so you can imagine alot is going to happen over that amount of time, the story is in no way rushed and is so easy to follow.
Sadie has a troubled past which you find out about and it just breaks your heart what she had to endure no one should ever have to go through that, although she has a great group of friends around her and fantastic family, she still remains broken......until she meets Colt he opens her up to feelings she has kept locked away for a long time, and she starts to fall for him hard and fast but Colt has a complicated life and is unable to commit. The connection between these 2 character's is amazing but throughout the book you will find yourself wanting to slap them upside the head ti knock some sense I to them. It's true what they say the course of love never runs smooth.
Here begins the triangle.......
Sadie meets Ash a hot stock Broker who is amazingly sexy and funny to boot could he be the one ?
Well I dont want to give away the story so you will have to read, I honestly wish I could give this book more than 5★★★★★ becauseit so deserves it.
If you love a book that will give you entertainment, have you reaching for the tissues and has your heart doing somersaults this is definitely thebook for you ......oh and FYI the sex scenes will leave you fanning yourself damn they are hot and alot of them hehe.
Barb is a super talented author, and I'll look forward to reading all other books she fetches out.
Profile Image for Vicci Kaighan.
21 reviews4 followers
July 12, 2014
Omg I have just finished reading this book and I wish I'd have read it sooner, wow amazing doesnt seem to cover it with this book. It will literally have your heart feeling like it's going to escape from your chest reading it.
The way Barb wrote it so it was Sadie telling you her story I thought that was wickedly brilliant..... it was a long book and the story was jam packed but that I no way put me off, it was set over a 2 year span so you can imagine alot is going to happen over that amount of time, the story is in no way rushed and is so easy to follow.
Sadie has a troubled past which you find out about and it just breaks your heart what she had to endure no one should ever have to go through that, although she has a great group of friends around her and fantastic family, she still remains broken......until she meets Colt he opens her up to feelings she has kept locked away for a long time, and she starts to fall for him hard and fast but Colt has a complicated life and is unable to commit. The connection between these 2 character's is amazing but throughout the book you will find yourself wanting to slap them upside the head ti knock some sense I to them. It's true what they say the course of love never runs smooth.
Here begins the triangle.......
Sadie meets Ash a hot stock Broker who is amazingly sexy and funny to boot could he be the one ?
Well I dont want to give away the story so you will have to read, I honestly wish I could give this book more than 5★★★★★ becauseit so deserves it.
If you love a book that will give you entertainment, have you reaching for the tissues and has your heart doing somersaults this is definitely thebook for you ......oh and FYI the sex scenes will leave you fanning yourself damn they are hot and alot of them hehe.
Barb is a super talented author, and I'll look forward to reading anything else that she writes <3
Profile Image for Karen Hicks  Benton.
60 reviews4 followers
June 26, 2014
Ever read a synopsis and think sounds good but familiar...yep I won't lie that's what I said to myself when I first saw this book. BOY was I wrong!!!
This book was so different than the typical romance books we've all been reading. What was so different you ask?? Well for starters...it wasn't predictable. I had to really pay attention or I would miss some important detail. It was emotional, heartfelt and absolutely possible in every day life.
You ever read a book that you just can't get out of your head? Hours, days pass and you are driving down the road and a song comes on and you instantly think of the characters and what they went through as if it were real?? Ahhh yeah totally happened to me today...only I didn't know who the song fit more Colt or Ash (sigh). I am dying to get my hands on the next book Fearing Regret so I don't have to feel this loss without them.
I connected with Sadie's story on a personal level...she had family and friends that adored her and gave with all her heart yet something was missing. That one thing that all women have dreamed about since they were little...their prince! Her desire leads her on a journey of highs and lows that will leave you scratching your head.It will have you asking yourself if you truly believe in fate, that all things good and bad happen for a reason?!?!What might have been...
I need more.....I want to hear Tony's story and what happens with Colt, Ash and Sadie. I feel like I am a part of their circle and have been left behind...lonely.

Amazing job Author Barbara Speak...everyone keep your eye on this one. I have a feeling it's just the beginning of a long, beautiful ride.

4 Heart wrenching "If it's meant to be it will be" stars!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Profile Image for Ashley Ray.
40 reviews
March 2, 2014
4.5 stars!!
Finding Solace was a great first novel by Barbara Speak! I can't not wait to see what else she has cooking up for us!!

This book was such a great drama filled story!! I loved every minute of it and found myself gasping in shock, laughing out loud and guessing what was happening next!!
I have a love hate relation ship with Colt.... He was so rotten sometimes but then he'd say something like this...
"I have never in my life seen an angel. But I swear if one walked the earth, it would be you. I always feel likeim spouting these corny lines, but there just isn't anything I can think to say that would do you justice"

And then Ash comes along with his 8 pack!!
"My time to shine is coming, girl. You better be ready for me when it does"

And Sadie is torn. This book keeps you guessing and wanting more!!
"We can go, but I'm not even close to being done with you, beautiful. Not by a long shot"

"It's my time to shine"

Most of all I loved the humor in this book!! I want to be friends with these people! LOL

"Did you shit your pants?"
"Yes"
"Ok just checking"

"Where do you think all these people pee and shit?"
"Well we are already submerged in it. And we rant the only ones. Fuck it, I'm having fun no matter what"

"Sadie was just telling me how Rocky really did shit his pants in Rocky 8"

"Great, I will forever be known as the chick that hits pregnant chicks"

"He just managed to cock block me the rest of the night. No girl is even going to care about who I am, when lover boy over here will sing to them"

Great book!! Bravo, Barb!! <3
Profile Image for RelentlessBookChic Ramblings & Reviews .
123 reviews21 followers
July 17, 2014
Okay so my mind is telling me 4 but my heart is saying 5 so I am giving this 4.5 stars.

I love a book that makes me feel. A book that takes on a life and plays like a beautiful movie in my mind. This book did that for me. It was beautiful, tragic, fun and I felt like I was in the middle of it all.

Sadie is your normal everyday girl. She isn't perfect and she is just someone that I could relate to on every level. She was strong but made some stupid decisions all in the name of love. I understood those decision, I have made them too. She had a great group of friends with a strong bond and a great support system.

Colt, the beautifully broken bad boy. I loved him, I hated him..there were times I wanted to throw my Kindle dealing with this man! But God did he break my heart sometimes and then mend it back together. He & Sadie had one of those relationships, you know the ones!

Ash, I love him. He.was.perfect. But like Sadie, I just had this special place for Colt. I am not one of those who always wants the bay boys to win the girl, no I was actually rooting for Ash..but I will let you read it to find out who got the girl ;)

So did I take off the 1/2 star you ask...there were some parts in the dialogue where I had a hard time figuring out who was talking. Some parts were a little confusing but nothing major. I loved the story, I literally went to sleep with it in my hand every night because I was staying up way past my bedtime reading!

Great job Barbara Speak..that is the way to come into the game.
Profile Image for Kara Bailey.
14 reviews15 followers
January 15, 2014
5 breathtakingly beautiful stars. I want to give more!! This is already my favorite book of the year! I finished it 2 days ago and I am still emotionally recovering. This is THE book to beat this year!

First, let me start by saying that author Barbara Speak writes amazing characters. I connected with every single one of Sadie’s friends. Each time something happened with one my heart dropped or I squealed with joy! When the book ended, I was lost. I downloaded every song Sadie belted out and still feel every emotion I felt when reading that specific part.

Sadie, oh Sadie. What a strong girl! She over comes so much in this book! Abusive relationships, tough decisions, and life shattering experiences. Throughout her story, Sadie has the most amazing group of friends that supports her 100 percent. Her friends helped make this story! You have every type of character here! Fighters, lovers, bad boys, good boys, and of course, the best friend! You also get drama at every corner!! THE LOVE TRIANGLE!! Man I am a sucker for those! Sadie is stuck choosing between Colt, the man that wont claim her as his and Ash, the man that quietly waits for his time to shine, and man does he shine!

I could write about this story all night with a racing heart! Instead, go read it for yourself. I want to just shout it from the rooftop! READ THIS BOOK!! Thank you Barbara for setting the standards for 2014!
Profile Image for Dee.
81 reviews
February 1, 2014
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. I was sucked into this story and the characters quickly, enjoying their everyday activities as much as the drama filled events throughout the book. This story delves into the life of Sadie and the relationships that make her who she is. Sadie comes across to others as a confident twenty year old however she has had some struggles in the past that she is eager to move on from. She is happy with her life, hanging out with great friends and not getting serious with anyone. This changes when she meets Colt who sweeps her off her feet ... or so she thinks.

Sadie often frustrated me in her choices and behaviour as did Colt and I was happy when Ash arrived on the scene. Though of course this created an element of drama. The secondary characters were awesome in this story and very likable, from the men in Sadie's life especially the Harrison boys, Mike, Tony and Jason to Heather her roommate and closest friend. I really enjoyed the journey they all had together and the experiences they shared throughout the story. I recommend this book to all who love a characters journey of self discovery and the ups and downs in their life.
Profile Image for Michelle.
35 reviews2 followers
November 17, 2014
This book was amazing and made for a couple sleepless nights for me since that's my only real down time. I never wanted to put it down. This was the first time I had read anything by this author and she is awesome!!!! I never excepted what would happen next it was always a surprise and that was awesome because with some books you can predict the outcome before your even a fourth of the way done and with this book there was no way. This book is about Sadie Warren. She is a strong, loving, and caring woman that has gone through a lot in life but still hasn't been able to overcome it but you will learn how much she grows throughout this book. Colt is the handsome bad boy that just draws you like a magnet but never let's you get to close. Ash is literally alpha Prince Charming just waiting for his time to shine. Now you are probably wondering why I gave my description of these three and no they are not all in the same relationship all together. I described them because they all have big parts in this book at some point or another. And you will find out once you read it. This is seriously a must read!!!! I highly recommend it!!! Definitely a five star in my book!!! HAPPY READING!!!!
Profile Image for Misty.
33 reviews7 followers
January 24, 2014
****I was given this ARC for an honest review***

I don't say this often..In fact I can honestly say that this BOOK is only the 2nd book to ever touch me in away that I can easily relate too!!
Best LINES EVER...."You just have to remember what is meant to be, will be. It all works itself out in the end"

Now on with the review...Buckle Up because its going to be a bumpy ride!!

This book is an EMOTIONAL ROLLER COASTER!!

You get to follow Sadie through her relationships..friends, lovers, boyfriends. We get to experience it all. Sadie has been through SO much in her life and we get to see her GROW and LEARN...must have tissue!!



Man this review is harder to write than I thought, I can't do it justice!! And, I REFUSE to do spoilers!!

So with that said this is a MUST READ..I think EVERY WOMAN..hell even teenager can relate to Sadie on some level.

Ok so I know I didn't give a lot away...SORRY, but you'll just have to trust me and read it for your selves this time!!

So RUN..DON'T walk...go one-click it NOW!!!
Profile Image for The Book Fairy Reviews.
2,476 reviews43 followers
September 1, 2016
Reading the journey of someones life is always interesting. You get to learn the mistakes they made, then ask yourself why would they do that?!? When they finally make the right choices, you know the healthy ones. You are right there with them yelling at the top of your lungs YES! So ladies if you are into reading books like that, then this is your book. Finding Solace is Sadie's journey to finding herself through bad choices, mistakes and then realizing what she has. I loved it. I cried with her , felt her frustration. I got mad at her for her decisions to continue when she shouldn't have. Yes ladies I felt like I was in the story trying to give Sadie advice. You know I have said it before, when you get lost in the fine line of reality and fiction is when you are reading a fabulous book. Barbara Speak has given us that fine line where you can and will lose your grip on reality. When you finish reading this I guarantee that you will be left mourning the loss of your fictional friends and family. You will read and love and treasure it.
38 reviews13 followers
July 1, 2014
4 stars *Reviewed for Crazy Daisy Book Whore*

One long roller coaster ride, but I didn't want it to end!

In Finding Solace, we meet 20-year old hair dresser Sadie Warren. She has survived a nightmare relationship but not without a guarded heart. Sadie meets Colt, a guy with a complicated life and a guarded heart too. He challenges Sadie to see herself in a different way, stronger and more open. Enter Ash, swoon, who sees Sadie as the strong beauty she has become.

Will Colt's "friends with benefits" arrangement be enough to satisfy Sadie, or will she let Ash sweep her off her feet?

I loved the characters and friendships developed throughout this book. There are so many of them that I'd love to read more about. This book, however, is not for the feint of heart. It had ups and downs, and I nearly threw my kindle across the room at one point. That just makes me love Barbara even more! I loved the unpredictability of this story. It was a very long, fully developed story. This is definitely worth the read!
81 reviews7 followers
November 30, 2014
OMG!!!!

If your in to books that are jammed packed FULL of EMOTION then this is your book!!! I LOVED it!!! Couldn't put it down once I began it!! I felt like I was in the story living it!! I was that drawn in and captivated!!! Barbara knows exactly how to suck you and hold you dormant all the while intriguing you!!! =)

Colt is definitely a hot bad boy! love hate relationship!!

Sadie the girl next door! Perfect, strong, and easily relatable but has a past. An abusive ex that leaves her uncertain about men! But she is srrounded by an AMAZING group of friends!!

This is Sadie's journey of her life, learning to trust and love again and again. =) From beginning to end her growth, development , and change is HUGE!!! Fast, easy read th a t everyone should read =)
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