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Lost In You #1
Tell Me When
Amber Scott should be enjoying life as a college freshman. She should be pursuing her dream of becoming a veterinarian. She should be working hard to make sense of her precalculus math class.
She shouldn't be waking up her college roommate with screaming nightmares. She shouldn't be flashing back, reliving the three weeks of hell she barely survived last year. And she definitely shouldn't be spending time with sexy player Marcus Reid.
But engineering student Marcus is the only one keeping Amber from failing her math course, so she grudgingly lets him into her life. She never expects the king of hookups will share his painful past. Or that she'll tell him her secrets in return, opening up and trusting him in a way she thought she'd never be able to again.
When their fragile future together is threatened by a stalker Amber thought was locked away for good, Marcus is determined to protect her--and Amber is determined to protect Marcus...even if that means pushing him away.
She shouldn't be waking up her college roommate with screaming nightmares. She shouldn't be flashing back, reliving the three weeks of hell she barely survived last year. And she definitely shouldn't be spending time with sexy player Marcus Reid.
But engineering student Marcus is the only one keeping Amber from failing her math course, so she grudgingly lets him into her life. She never expects the king of hookups will share his painful past. Or that she'll tell him her secrets in return, opening up and trusting him in a way she thought she'd never be able to again.
When their fragile future together is threatened by a stalker Amber thought was locked away for good, Marcus is determined to protect her--and Amber is determined to protect Marcus...even if that means pushing him away.
273 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 3, 2013
52 people are currently reading
1997 people want to read
About the author
Stina Lindenblatt
32 books841 followersBorn in Brighton England, USA Today bestselling author Stina Lindenblatt has lived in a number of countries, including England, the US, Finland, and Canada. This would explain her mixed up accent. She has a kinesiology degree and a MSc in sports biological sciences. In addition to writing fiction, she loves photography, and currently lives in Calgary, Canada, with her husband and three kids.
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To receive an email when Stina releases a new book or has pre-orders available, sign up for her newsletter over at https://stinalindenblattauthor.com/ne...!
Stina can be found on her website: https://stinalindenblattauthor.com
SUBSCRIBE TO MY NEWSLETTER
https://stinalindenblattauthor.com/newsletter
VISIT ME ON INSTAGRAM
https://www.instagram.com/stinalindenblatt
VISIT ME ON FACEBOOK
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VISIT MY AMAZON AUTHOR PAGE
https://www.amazon.com/Stina-Lindenblatt/e/B00GB0FIEQ
Join me in my Facebook group Stina’s Sweethearts for hot guys, fun times, and exclusive giveaways. Just click on the image below to visit me there.
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November 8, 2021Tell Me When and Let Me Know have been re-released and have new covers. They are also now available in print (on Amazon). The duet was originally with a traditional publisher.
Here's a sneak peek from Tell Me When.
Chapter One
Amber
My windshield wipers squeak as I pull into the empty parking spot in front of Your Designs. Rain pelts my window. My heart pounds along with it.
I can do this. I need to do this.
A mother and her toddler dash past the car as I pull the hood of my rain jacket over my head. He stops, a mischievous smile on his face, and leaps into a puddle. His red rubber boots splash water in every direction. I can’t help but laugh at his expression. At least he’s not afraid of the weather.
Before I can change my mind, I grab my purse from the passenger seat and make a break for the store. Once inside, I fish through my purse for the picture I found on the Internet, after hours and hours of research.
“Hi, Amber,” Kathy says from the counter. Her long, curly blond hair is pulled back in a ponytail, and she’s wearing skintight jeans and a black T-shirt that reads Rock On.
“You’re finally going for it?” She’s referring to the five other times I’ve been here, checking the place out, but never quite having the courage to go through with it.
An oversized jar with a hole in the lid and a picture of a lotus flower on the side sits on the counter. Above the flower is the message: Please donate and help victims of sexual assault and abuse become survivors. I poke a five-dollar bill through the slot like I’ve done every time I’ve come here.
“You’re the one giving me the tattoo, right?” I ask.
“That’s right. Do you have an idea of what you want?”
Swallowing hard, I unfold the picture of a dozen small blue flowers floating on a breeze. Forget-me-nots. I hand it to her. “I want it here.” I indicate the inside of my left forearm, which is hidden under my jacket sleeve. “And I also want it to say ‘Trent and Michael.’ ”
Kathy pulls out a book with different fonts and I pick an elegant script. It’s perfect.
“Just let me set up, and we’ll get started.” She heads to the back of the store and disappears down a hallway.
I wander over to a wall of tattoos. I’ve seen them each time I’ve been here, but that doesn’t stop me from marveling over the more intricate designs. Until now, I’ve never been impressed by tattoos. It was my ex-best friend who wanted one. Funny how things change.
I’m inspecting a delicate fairy with wings like autumn leaves when the chimes above the door ring. Two guys, maybe twenty-one or twenty-two, enter. Both are good-looking and have the tall, muscular bodies of basketball players. That’s where the similarities between them end.
The dark-haired guy has that bad-boy vibe some girls find appealing, with his military boots, jeans, and black leather jacket. His blond-haired friend is the kind of guy most girls feel safe with. He’s wearing sneakers, jeans, and a blood-donor T-shirt. The clothes and his friendly expression make him appear trustworthy. Like he won’t break your heart or your body or your soul.
But I’ve long since learned that appearances are never what they seem. Either man could be sweet, or he could be dangerous. The trick is to never let them get close enough for you to find out the truth the hard way.
Blond guy walks to the counter and chats with the store owner, a man not much older than us, with tattoos covering his arms. Neither pays attention to me. I resume studying the wall.
From the corner of my eye, I notice the black-haired guy walking toward me. Instead of checking out the designs on the wall, his gaze roams over my body, taking in the view. Jerk.
A one-sided smile slides onto his face. He’s the kind of guy who uses his good looks to his advantage, the kind of guy whose sole mission in life is getting laid.
My hand tap-tap-taps my right thigh, keeping pace with my heart, which has picked up speed as the jerk continues staring at me. I narrow my eyes at him, silently telling him to find another girl. He’s wasting his time with me.
The men at the counter laugh.
“Dude, that’s the first time I’ve seen you get shot down by a female,” blond guy says, still chuckling.
Dark-haired guy flips him the finger and points to the fairy. “This would look hot on you right”—he strokes his finger against my lower back—“here.” His voice is low, the words slow and practiced.
I jerk away and stride to the rear of the store. The other two men laugh even louder.
“Give up, Marcus,” blond guy says. “She’s a lot smarter than your usual girls. I like her already.”
Read more >> https://books2read.com/Tell-Me-When
Here's a sneak peek from Tell Me When.
Chapter One
Amber
My windshield wipers squeak as I pull into the empty parking spot in front of Your Designs. Rain pelts my window. My heart pounds along with it.
I can do this. I need to do this.
A mother and her toddler dash past the car as I pull the hood of my rain jacket over my head. He stops, a mischievous smile on his face, and leaps into a puddle. His red rubber boots splash water in every direction. I can’t help but laugh at his expression. At least he’s not afraid of the weather.
Before I can change my mind, I grab my purse from the passenger seat and make a break for the store. Once inside, I fish through my purse for the picture I found on the Internet, after hours and hours of research.
“Hi, Amber,” Kathy says from the counter. Her long, curly blond hair is pulled back in a ponytail, and she’s wearing skintight jeans and a black T-shirt that reads Rock On.
“You’re finally going for it?” She’s referring to the five other times I’ve been here, checking the place out, but never quite having the courage to go through with it.
An oversized jar with a hole in the lid and a picture of a lotus flower on the side sits on the counter. Above the flower is the message: Please donate and help victims of sexual assault and abuse become survivors. I poke a five-dollar bill through the slot like I’ve done every time I’ve come here.
“You’re the one giving me the tattoo, right?” I ask.
“That’s right. Do you have an idea of what you want?”
Swallowing hard, I unfold the picture of a dozen small blue flowers floating on a breeze. Forget-me-nots. I hand it to her. “I want it here.” I indicate the inside of my left forearm, which is hidden under my jacket sleeve. “And I also want it to say ‘Trent and Michael.’ ”
Kathy pulls out a book with different fonts and I pick an elegant script. It’s perfect.
“Just let me set up, and we’ll get started.” She heads to the back of the store and disappears down a hallway.
I wander over to a wall of tattoos. I’ve seen them each time I’ve been here, but that doesn’t stop me from marveling over the more intricate designs. Until now, I’ve never been impressed by tattoos. It was my ex-best friend who wanted one. Funny how things change.
I’m inspecting a delicate fairy with wings like autumn leaves when the chimes above the door ring. Two guys, maybe twenty-one or twenty-two, enter. Both are good-looking and have the tall, muscular bodies of basketball players. That’s where the similarities between them end.
The dark-haired guy has that bad-boy vibe some girls find appealing, with his military boots, jeans, and black leather jacket. His blond-haired friend is the kind of guy most girls feel safe with. He’s wearing sneakers, jeans, and a blood-donor T-shirt. The clothes and his friendly expression make him appear trustworthy. Like he won’t break your heart or your body or your soul.
But I’ve long since learned that appearances are never what they seem. Either man could be sweet, or he could be dangerous. The trick is to never let them get close enough for you to find out the truth the hard way.
Blond guy walks to the counter and chats with the store owner, a man not much older than us, with tattoos covering his arms. Neither pays attention to me. I resume studying the wall.
From the corner of my eye, I notice the black-haired guy walking toward me. Instead of checking out the designs on the wall, his gaze roams over my body, taking in the view. Jerk.
A one-sided smile slides onto his face. He’s the kind of guy who uses his good looks to his advantage, the kind of guy whose sole mission in life is getting laid.
My hand tap-tap-taps my right thigh, keeping pace with my heart, which has picked up speed as the jerk continues staring at me. I narrow my eyes at him, silently telling him to find another girl. He’s wasting his time with me.
The men at the counter laugh.
“Dude, that’s the first time I’ve seen you get shot down by a female,” blond guy says, still chuckling.
Dark-haired guy flips him the finger and points to the fairy. “This would look hot on you right”—he strokes his finger against my lower back—“here.” His voice is low, the words slow and practiced.
I jerk away and stride to the rear of the store. The other two men laugh even louder.
“Give up, Marcus,” blond guy says. “She’s a lot smarter than your usual girls. I like her already.”
Read more >> https://books2read.com/Tell-Me-When
August 8, 2020
This is an engaging and heartbreaking book--one that is hard to put down. I particularly liked the fact that while both the protagonists are damaged and pushing each other away, it's not as annoying as with other similar books where it's back and forth for the majority of the novel. That said, they went from being fake boyfriend/girlfriend to in love a little quick, without much resistance from either of them, which was surprising (and somewhat refreshing).
There are some good twists in the stalker plotline, and the flashbacks were well done. Lindenblatt did a fabulous job of gradually revealing what happened to Amber in the past without me feeling like she was intentionally misleading or keeping the reader in the dark.
All in all, this is a solid 4 star read.
There are some good twists in the stalker plotline, and the flashbacks were well done. Lindenblatt did a fabulous job of gradually revealing what happened to Amber in the past without me feeling like she was intentionally misleading or keeping the reader in the dark.
All in all, this is a solid 4 star read.
December 4, 2013
An addictive, gripping journey of hope, healing, and finding forgiveness. I could not put this book down! Both characters were raw and authentic, and the chemistry between them was off the charts. Marcus Reid is the ultimate book boyfriend.
March 1, 2014
Rating: 4.5 stars
Oh. My. WOW! I didn't even have this book on my radar until Krista lured me in with a very eye-catching shirtless GIF, and boy am I glad that she did! This story just blew me away in every means possible, just like the undiscovered gem that it is. (When it definitely deserves to be WELL KNOWN EVERYWHERE!) I am not exaggerating at all when I say that it is without a doubt one of the best NA debuts I've read during my very excessive NA binge.
And that's saying something.
After reading a plethora of dark-dark-dark books, I needed something to lighten my spirits -- which this book did (because the romance is epically awesome <3), but that doesn't mean that it's without its demons. No sirree. Because Amber's past is so awful and heart-wrenching that the feels scream off the charts. Everything that has happened to her... Personally, I don't know if I would've been able to survive it. But she does, despite the remnants of her PTSD which continues to haunt her college life which she desperately wants to enjoy in peace.
As a character, Amber has my complete devotion. Never does she act frustrating or horror-movie-smack-down-worthy or even as awful as she's warranted to be. She's sweet, and she's funny, and she's athletic, and she's fun -- and her relationship with a very sexy Marcus is worth every face-splitting grin I couldn't stop! She hires him to be her tutor-slash-bodyguard, of sorts, but they are both so connected that you know there's no way they can just stay friends... *wink wink nudge nudge*
All in all? Strip away your reservations and prepare to emerge yourself in another sweet, sexy, amazing romance that still manages to bring tons of originality to the table in a genre I thought was starting to get redundant! Tell Me When is anything but predictable.... except maybe for the happy-sexy-swoon moments that we would riot for anyways ;) <3
-Mimi
Oh. My. WOW! I didn't even have this book on my radar until Krista lured me in with a very eye-catching shirtless GIF, and boy am I glad that she did! This story just blew me away in every means possible, just like the undiscovered gem that it is. (When it definitely deserves to be WELL KNOWN EVERYWHERE!) I am not exaggerating at all when I say that it is without a doubt one of the best NA debuts I've read during my very excessive NA binge.
And that's saying something.
After reading a plethora of dark-dark-dark books, I needed something to lighten my spirits -- which this book did (because the romance is epically awesome <3), but that doesn't mean that it's without its demons. No sirree. Because Amber's past is so awful and heart-wrenching that the feels scream off the charts. Everything that has happened to her... Personally, I don't know if I would've been able to survive it. But she does, despite the remnants of her PTSD which continues to haunt her college life which she desperately wants to enjoy in peace.
As a character, Amber has my complete devotion. Never does she act frustrating or horror-movie-smack-down-worthy or even as awful as she's warranted to be. She's sweet, and she's funny, and she's athletic, and she's fun -- and her relationship with a very sexy Marcus is worth every face-splitting grin I couldn't stop! She hires him to be her tutor-slash-bodyguard, of sorts, but they are both so connected that you know there's no way they can just stay friends... *wink wink nudge nudge*
All in all? Strip away your reservations and prepare to emerge yourself in another sweet, sexy, amazing romance that still manages to bring tons of originality to the table in a genre I thought was starting to get redundant! Tell Me When is anything but predictable.... except maybe for the happy-sexy-swoon moments that we would riot for anyways ;) <3
-Mimi
May 14, 2020
*ARC Given to Blog for Honest Review*
*DNF*
1 Stars
Ugh…I hate this…I really do. I can’t help it. I don’t like it when a book doesn’t work for me! It makes me feel…sucky. And I really wanted to like this book but I was not connecting and once I get to a certain point and realize that I’m not connecting…I have to give up.
My main disconnect was the pace of the book…it was choppy and it wasn’t that I had hard time keeping up it was just…not working for me. We’re in both Amber and Marcus’s POV which wasn’t the problem, but it was just very…staccato and honestly a little bland. I’ve said it over and over again, I am an emotional reader to my core and while I understood what was going on with both of them…I wasn’t feeling it. I knew just from the bits and pieces of what I was being told that they had both been through their own separate tragedies…the problem is, I knew the facts but not their feelings about it.
That was another thing that messed with the flow for me – I get that there needs to be a certain ere of mystery…the unknown…the thing that keeps us reading – but we had two unknowns and it was so vague and it got a little frustrating because I need to be able to understand at least something about what I was reading. So not only was I not connecting but I had so many unanswered questions it just got to the point where I was too exasperated to care. The pull and drive to know what happened was lost on me and I knew that was when I reached my limit.
I really wanted to know what happened to Amber and Marcus and I’m really sad that this book didn’t work out for me…but unfortunately I guess I can’t love everything. :-(
*DNF*
1 Stars
Ugh…I hate this…I really do. I can’t help it. I don’t like it when a book doesn’t work for me! It makes me feel…sucky. And I really wanted to like this book but I was not connecting and once I get to a certain point and realize that I’m not connecting…I have to give up.
My main disconnect was the pace of the book…it was choppy and it wasn’t that I had hard time keeping up it was just…not working for me. We’re in both Amber and Marcus’s POV which wasn’t the problem, but it was just very…staccato and honestly a little bland. I’ve said it over and over again, I am an emotional reader to my core and while I understood what was going on with both of them…I wasn’t feeling it. I knew just from the bits and pieces of what I was being told that they had both been through their own separate tragedies…the problem is, I knew the facts but not their feelings about it.
That was another thing that messed with the flow for me – I get that there needs to be a certain ere of mystery…the unknown…the thing that keeps us reading – but we had two unknowns and it was so vague and it got a little frustrating because I need to be able to understand at least something about what I was reading. So not only was I not connecting but I had so many unanswered questions it just got to the point where I was too exasperated to care. The pull and drive to know what happened was lost on me and I knew that was when I reached my limit.
I really wanted to know what happened to Amber and Marcus and I’m really sad that this book didn’t work out for me…but unfortunately I guess I can’t love everything. :-(
May 5, 2014
TELL ME WHEN is a heart breaking and emotional story. Be prepared to do nothing else but read once you start this book! I was instantly caught up in Amber's life, all the while my heart was breaking for her. It is just amazing that she has survived everything that has happened in her life. I found myself wanting to run to her and just hug her and keep her safe. My heart was aching for all the pain she went through and was still trying to deal with.
I fell in love with Marcus over the course of TELL ME WHEN and he is the perfect book boyfriend. He was such a player when the story first starts, but by the end he is an awesome boyfriend. Turns out, Amber isn't the only victim with a horrible past. Marcus has quite a story to tell as well. What a suspenseful tale of love, heartache, forgiveness, hope, and pain. The chemistry between Amber and Marcus will have you turning the pages late into the night. The twists and turns in TELL ME WHEN will make it a very fast read as you will be flipping the pages like crazy because you have to know how it ends!! I can't wait to read more by Stina!! Five stars all the way!!
I fell in love with Marcus over the course of TELL ME WHEN and he is the perfect book boyfriend. He was such a player when the story first starts, but by the end he is an awesome boyfriend. Turns out, Amber isn't the only victim with a horrible past. Marcus has quite a story to tell as well. What a suspenseful tale of love, heartache, forgiveness, hope, and pain. The chemistry between Amber and Marcus will have you turning the pages late into the night. The twists and turns in TELL ME WHEN will make it a very fast read as you will be flipping the pages like crazy because you have to know how it ends!! I can't wait to read more by Stina!! Five stars all the way!!
December 28, 2013
Amber is a wounded young woman. Starting her first year of college, she suffers from nightmares, flashbacks, and other signs of PTSD. She’s on the brink of failing her math class. Also, because of a horrific stalking incident that happened the previous year, she doesn’t want any men making moves on her, but they do anyway despite the way she hides behind clothes and friends.
That’s when Marcus steps in. He’s irresistible and his personal life consists of a string of one-night stands. He pursues Amber, but she doesn’t seem to want him, which is puzzling since women normally throw themselves at him. She does hire him to tutor her in math and the two form a tentative bond. They’re both hurting and hiding terrifying secrets. What happened to the both of them threatens their budding romance. Also, with someone menacing sending messages to Amber, perhaps her stalker isn’t locked up, or he has someone on the outside working to harm Amber and anyone close to her.
This novel has a strong balance of both emotions and pure suspense. I was teary-eyed with the romance and the revelations of Amber and Marcus’ past, and how they were slowly opening up to each other, and I was also on the edge of my seat in regards to the stalker. The secondary characters were fleshed out well and they were fantastic complements to the two main characters. This is a superb NA novel from a talented debut author. I read this via NetGalley, courtesy of the publisher.
That’s when Marcus steps in. He’s irresistible and his personal life consists of a string of one-night stands. He pursues Amber, but she doesn’t seem to want him, which is puzzling since women normally throw themselves at him. She does hire him to tutor her in math and the two form a tentative bond. They’re both hurting and hiding terrifying secrets. What happened to the both of them threatens their budding romance. Also, with someone menacing sending messages to Amber, perhaps her stalker isn’t locked up, or he has someone on the outside working to harm Amber and anyone close to her.
This novel has a strong balance of both emotions and pure suspense. I was teary-eyed with the romance and the revelations of Amber and Marcus’ past, and how they were slowly opening up to each other, and I was also on the edge of my seat in regards to the stalker. The secondary characters were fleshed out well and they were fantastic complements to the two main characters. This is a superb NA novel from a talented debut author. I read this via NetGalley, courtesy of the publisher.
October 27, 2013
It's so much fun to see this book getting ready to hit the market, not only because Stina is a good friend, but also because I was one of the lucky ones to beta read it.
I love this story. Stina has crafted wonderful characters with emotional depth who pull us into their lives from page one. The dual POV allows us to see into the hearts of both characters, and the twists and turns of their stories kept me turning pages late into the night.
NA has become one of my favorite genres and books like this one are the reason why.
I love this story. Stina has crafted wonderful characters with emotional depth who pull us into their lives from page one. The dual POV allows us to see into the hearts of both characters, and the twists and turns of their stories kept me turning pages late into the night.
NA has become one of my favorite genres and books like this one are the reason why.
December 31, 2013
I decided to read Tell Me When because it was available on Netgalley in exchange for an honest review, and it caught my eye because I can't get enough New Adult and it sounded like a premise that I would enjoy.
If you are burnt out on NA, like I know some of my readers are, this may not be the book for you, but if, like me you are still craving and devouring, then I know that you will like this one.
Amber definitely has her own voice, and I was intrigued by her nightmares and the freak outs, and how this happened to her. We get to see her struggle day in and out with very real physical symptoms that can start to take over her life. I like the fighter spirit in her and even though she sees herself as weak and damaged, especially at first, I loved seeing the growth in her as she opened up to a new friend Jordan as well as Marcus who keeps showing up in her life, and the once man-whore who is feeling new things for a girl as well as forming a friendship.
The dual perspective is almost a trademark of NA these days, but I think that Stina Lindenblatt did it well. She captured their voices, and showed pivotal moments of change as well as bringing that ever valuable other opinion of events and see the main characters in another light and through some one else's eyes.
The secondary characters were enjoyable as well, and I especially liked Jordan's (her new friend's) upbeat and accepting persona. I liked how she could probe for an answer but know when to stop as to not push too hard or far. I also enjoyed Marcus and his roomie/best friend Chase, how easy going they were with each other, but still brought that nugget of truth when needed. I also saw a new side of Marcus with the younger guys Juan and Carlos, from his neighborhood, and who he still works with at the community center playing basketball with them.
The revelation of both Amber and Marcus' pasts was timed well, and I appreciated how they opened up with one another because they saw that familiar hurt and pain. They had a lot more in common than they ever would have guessed at first glance, and their stories are so raw and painful. The emotions in this book really got to me, and they were well written.
And oh, the chemistry between Amber and Marcus. The reluctance at first because it is new for them or has been so long makes it even more tense and delicious.
The ending had me on the edge of my seat, but I did like how everything (eventually) wrapped up and where it left them.
If you are burnt out on NA, like I know some of my readers are, this may not be the book for you, but if, like me you are still craving and devouring, then I know that you will like this one.
Amber definitely has her own voice, and I was intrigued by her nightmares and the freak outs, and how this happened to her. We get to see her struggle day in and out with very real physical symptoms that can start to take over her life. I like the fighter spirit in her and even though she sees herself as weak and damaged, especially at first, I loved seeing the growth in her as she opened up to a new friend Jordan as well as Marcus who keeps showing up in her life, and the once man-whore who is feeling new things for a girl as well as forming a friendship.
The dual perspective is almost a trademark of NA these days, but I think that Stina Lindenblatt did it well. She captured their voices, and showed pivotal moments of change as well as bringing that ever valuable other opinion of events and see the main characters in another light and through some one else's eyes.
The secondary characters were enjoyable as well, and I especially liked Jordan's (her new friend's) upbeat and accepting persona. I liked how she could probe for an answer but know when to stop as to not push too hard or far. I also enjoyed Marcus and his roomie/best friend Chase, how easy going they were with each other, but still brought that nugget of truth when needed. I also saw a new side of Marcus with the younger guys Juan and Carlos, from his neighborhood, and who he still works with at the community center playing basketball with them.
The revelation of both Amber and Marcus' pasts was timed well, and I appreciated how they opened up with one another because they saw that familiar hurt and pain. They had a lot more in common than they ever would have guessed at first glance, and their stories are so raw and painful. The emotions in this book really got to me, and they were well written.
And oh, the chemistry between Amber and Marcus. The reluctance at first because it is new for them or has been so long makes it even more tense and delicious.
The ending had me on the edge of my seat, but I did like how everything (eventually) wrapped up and where it left them.
April 1, 2015
In her debut novel, Stina Lindenblatt has taken on a topic that is both disturbing and emotionally fraught, that of a young woman who has experienced the ultimate in trauma at the hands of a stalker who has also murdered two of the most important people in her life - her brother and her boyfriend. Trying to put the pieces of her damaged life back together, she enrolls in college and meets Marcus, himself the product of an abusive home. These two scarred individuals see in each other kindred spirits and begin to develop a relationship where trust will ultimately lead to love, and the healing they both so desperately need.
To say that one "enjoys" this type of book is not really the word to use. A dark romance, one where emotional and physical trauma are key to the story can be riveting and soul-searing, requiring an emotional layout on the part of the reader - and not everyone who reads romance will like to expose themselves to this from a novel. Personally they are not my preferred type of book, but to only read light and fluffy romances where nothing bad ever happens is to live in a fantasy world.
I found this book to be well written, with a fast paced plot, emotional depth and believable characterization. First person points of view of Amber and Marcus were critical to understanding the internal workings of both characters - the fear Amber had of trusting anyone new; the willingness of Marcus to dare to open his heart to someone and face rejection. Though the subject matter was intense, the author made the story compelling such that the reader needed to know what was going to happen - suspense filled pages counterbalanced with sexual tension and desire. The final pages of the story were a relief after all the tension.
I highly recommend this book to those who are looking for something deeper, a romance that isn't all chocolates and roses but rather expressing real emotion and feeling.
To say that one "enjoys" this type of book is not really the word to use. A dark romance, one where emotional and physical trauma are key to the story can be riveting and soul-searing, requiring an emotional layout on the part of the reader - and not everyone who reads romance will like to expose themselves to this from a novel. Personally they are not my preferred type of book, but to only read light and fluffy romances where nothing bad ever happens is to live in a fantasy world.
I found this book to be well written, with a fast paced plot, emotional depth and believable characterization. First person points of view of Amber and Marcus were critical to understanding the internal workings of both characters - the fear Amber had of trusting anyone new; the willingness of Marcus to dare to open his heart to someone and face rejection. Though the subject matter was intense, the author made the story compelling such that the reader needed to know what was going to happen - suspense filled pages counterbalanced with sexual tension and desire. The final pages of the story were a relief after all the tension.
I highly recommend this book to those who are looking for something deeper, a romance that isn't all chocolates and roses but rather expressing real emotion and feeling.
August 9, 2016
Tell me when
, is a story about a college girl named Amber who is struggling with her Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. We also get to meet Marcus who typically doesn't date but falls in love with her. They also share a common past. I give this book 3.5 stars!
Amber's past kept me entwined in her story, it was easy to empathize with her and what she had been through. Marcus was a likeable character and the way his POV was well written allowed me to feel that I could relate to him as well.
In this story the main character Amber stands up to her mother and calls her bad behavior to her attention. I really liked that because I don't read that too often in books. I often read that characters either accept the bad behavior from other characters or completely cut them out of their lives.
I liked the character Chase, and I loved Smokey! I felt that he was a little hero. :)
However, I did want to know This is why I felt that the ending had wrapped up too quickly. -Edit: I just read there will be a sequel to answer these questions! I can't wait to read!!
The characters are likeable and the plot kept me interested. The stalker back story was a real page turner and left me wanting to read more! It was my favorite part of the book!
Thank you Stina Lindenblatt for allowing me to read & review!
Amber's past kept me entwined in her story, it was easy to empathize with her and what she had been through. Marcus was a likeable character and the way his POV was well written allowed me to feel that I could relate to him as well.
In this story the main character Amber stands up to her mother and calls her bad behavior to her attention. I really liked that because I don't read that too often in books. I often read that characters either accept the bad behavior from other characters or completely cut them out of their lives.
I liked the character Chase, and I loved Smokey! I felt that he was a little hero. :)
However, I did want to know This is why I felt that the ending had wrapped up too quickly. -Edit: I just read there will be a sequel to answer these questions! I can't wait to read!!
The characters are likeable and the plot kept me interested. The stalker back story was a real page turner and left me wanting to read more! It was my favorite part of the book!
Thank you Stina Lindenblatt for allowing me to read & review!
January 16, 2014
The Good:
- I liked that there was a deeper storyline than just bad boy accepts monogamy for the first time in his life.
- I liked that Amber's trauma wasn't just something in the past referred to in order to tell us that she was screwed up, but what happened to her was an active part of her life and the author shows us how it has affected her. Showing, not telling, is great.
- Writing and editing are great and very tight.
- Instant attraction (at least from Marcus) but not insta-love.
The Bad:
- I liked how the author executed the storyline but it felt too coincidental how Marcus and Amber just started running into each other all the time and how they ended up agreeing on the tutoring.
The Ugly (minor but if anything falls in this category, it would be this one thing):
- The nickname Kitten.
I received a free copy of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
- I liked that there was a deeper storyline than just bad boy accepts monogamy for the first time in his life.
- I liked that Amber's trauma wasn't just something in the past referred to in order to tell us that she was screwed up, but what happened to her was an active part of her life and the author shows us how it has affected her. Showing, not telling, is great.
- Writing and editing are great and very tight.
- Instant attraction (at least from Marcus) but not insta-love.
The Bad:
- I liked how the author executed the storyline but it felt too coincidental how Marcus and Amber just started running into each other all the time and how they ended up agreeing on the tutoring.
The Ugly (minor but if anything falls in this category, it would be this one thing):
- The nickname Kitten.
I received a free copy of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
August 19, 2014
Wow, I have read books with serious topics before, but this one really tops it.
Such an addictive read that once ou start you wont be able to put it down.
I really liked Amber, she has been through a hell of a lot and though she still suffers she is an extremely strong person for trying to move on with her life and start living again. There were times when I just wanted to hug her.
Marcus, MMMMMMM, Marcus. I think I would totally start failing math just so I could get him to tutor me! But he is more that what he initially seems and has his own story to tell too and he really grows as a character through the book.
Sweet, sexy, heartbreaking and happy this book will drag you in and will not let go until you have turned the last page over a few hours later.
Such an addictive read that once ou start you wont be able to put it down.
I really liked Amber, she has been through a hell of a lot and though she still suffers she is an extremely strong person for trying to move on with her life and start living again. There were times when I just wanted to hug her.
Marcus, MMMMMMM, Marcus. I think I would totally start failing math just so I could get him to tutor me! But he is more that what he initially seems and has his own story to tell too and he really grows as a character through the book.
Sweet, sexy, heartbreaking and happy this book will drag you in and will not let go until you have turned the last page over a few hours later.
December 30, 2013
Contemporary romance is not my favorite genre. But I loved Stina’s book because I really connected with her characters, Amber and Marcus. Their back stories are complex and filled with pain and I really enjoyed seeing how they worked through the tragedies in their lives that’s been crippling them. That’s what makes this book great. And the romance is sweet. This is a real page turner that will pull at your heart.
January 20, 2014
I've heard a lot of really positive buzz surrounding this book, so naturally I jumped at the chance to review it. I knew after reading the synopsis that this would be an emotional book with two very broken characters. I also like that the synopsis hinted at some suspense and intrigue!
We get both Amber and Marcus's POV's, which I am always fan of, as it always helps me connect with the characters on a deeper level. Both Amber and Marcus have painful pasts that still haunt them and in Amber's case especially, affects her daily life.
We have your classic case of bad boy player meets sweet, nice girl who ends up wanting to be the guy she needs in her life and changing his player ways in order to do so. As tried and true as this particular storyline is lately in NA, I found it did not bother me once I found out Marcus's reasons for being this way. It is quite heartbreaking and I can see why Marcus would use sex as an outlet, especially having been dealt the hand he was at way too young of an age. Having run into Amber a few times, he is interested in making the beautiful blonde his next conquest. However, unlike most girls, Amber doesn't fall at his feet and into his bed. She rebuffs him at every opportunity and even accuses him of stalking her. However, after failing Math, she has no choice but to ask the engineer major to tutor her. Tutoring becomes more than just tutoring and soon Amber finds herself asking Marcus to be her fake boyfriend so that she can go out with her persistent friend Jordan.
Because of what happened in her past, the last thing Amber needs is unwanted male attention. Marcus is a good buffer and even though he doesn't know her history, he knows something bad has happened to her and he finds himself wanting to step in to play the role of protector. He is kind to her and assures her she is safe with him. She is the first girl he's even considered more with, but feels unworthy of her. He doesn't think he is capable of being the right guy for her and I hate that he has let his own past screw with his head so much.
Amber has undergone things that no person should ever have to face and it's disgusting how one person has managed to take away so much from her at such a young age. Amber knows loss better than anyone and has never opened up and talked about what happened before. She doesn't want the pity or attention. She just wants to go to school and become a veterinarian like she's always wanted. However, Amber suffers from PTSD and is still tormented by nightmares, as well as flashbacks of what happened. Her nightmares disrupt her roommate and causes undesirable tension between them and her flashbacks occur at any time of day. They are triggered by external forces and there's no stopping them. Sometimes Amber is able to come out of them and act like nothing is wrong, but there are other times where she is literally curled up in the fetal position still fighting and trying to keep her demons at bay.
Marcus ends up being the person to get through to her and after sharing his past with her and realizing the two have some common ground (having both lost people they loved dearly), ends up opening up to him and telling him the sordid details of her own. Marcus still has his doubts of whether or not he's good enough for her, but wants to take a chance and start a real relationship with her. They both still live with the horrors of their past, but are stronger together. However, there are forces that want to keep them apart and will go to extremely drastic measures to do so, leaving Amber questioning if she can really subject Marcus to her past catching up with her and hurting him.
While the story is a heavier one, there are a lot of really great moments between not only Amber and Marcus, but also with their best friends Jordan and Chase. They are both great friends to the two and even though Jordan has a boyfriend, I found myself wishing that Stina would write a companion novel with her as the lead. I personally felt there was more than friendship between Chase and Jordan and I wouldn't mind a book about them!
Marcus and Amber's families do play an influential role in their story. Amber's mother is having a hard time dealing with her own grief and instead of being a loving, nurturing parent to her, she ends up coming across as cold and unfeeling- drowning her sorrows in alcohol. Amber's grandmother is the one who steps in for Amber's mom and I'm really glad she had her to lean on and take care of her cat (who has special meaning to Amber). Marcus on the other hand, really has no one to call his family. His mother has made it clear she chooses his worthless step-father Frank over him. Marcus volunteers at a youth center and has formed an attachment to a few of the troubled kids that spend time there, especially one named Alejandro. Alejandro is a good kid who Marcus fears has gotten in with the wrong crowd. Marcus's former neighborhood is a tough one and with gang activity being as prominent as it is, he has afraid Alejandro has been recruited. I definitely did not expect Alejandro's story to go in the direction that it did and I felt my heart splinter into pieces for Marcus at the revelations that were brought to light concerning his past.
There are a few other notable characters, Emma and Tammara. Emma was Amber's former best friend and hasn't been able to mend fences with her after what happened. She goes out of her way to avoid her and when they do run into each other, Emma is hurt and even angry. Tammara is one of Marcus's hookups who doesn't seem to get the hint that they will never have anything more than just sex. She is manipulative and catty and the lengths she goes to in order to keep Marcus are insane. This girl needs to be dealt with and I hope Marcus and Amber make the right decision regarding her future.
Overall, I really enjoyed the emotional depth to this one, as well as the suspense and mystery that surrounded it. Some things were quite typical of New Adult, but I thought Lindenblatt wrote her story well and I thought she did a good job with her characterization.
*Received a copy of this book from InkSlingerPR in exchange for a fair and honest review.*
We get both Amber and Marcus's POV's, which I am always fan of, as it always helps me connect with the characters on a deeper level. Both Amber and Marcus have painful pasts that still haunt them and in Amber's case especially, affects her daily life.
We have your classic case of bad boy player meets sweet, nice girl who ends up wanting to be the guy she needs in her life and changing his player ways in order to do so. As tried and true as this particular storyline is lately in NA, I found it did not bother me once I found out Marcus's reasons for being this way. It is quite heartbreaking and I can see why Marcus would use sex as an outlet, especially having been dealt the hand he was at way too young of an age. Having run into Amber a few times, he is interested in making the beautiful blonde his next conquest. However, unlike most girls, Amber doesn't fall at his feet and into his bed. She rebuffs him at every opportunity and even accuses him of stalking her. However, after failing Math, she has no choice but to ask the engineer major to tutor her. Tutoring becomes more than just tutoring and soon Amber finds herself asking Marcus to be her fake boyfriend so that she can go out with her persistent friend Jordan.
Because of what happened in her past, the last thing Amber needs is unwanted male attention. Marcus is a good buffer and even though he doesn't know her history, he knows something bad has happened to her and he finds himself wanting to step in to play the role of protector. He is kind to her and assures her she is safe with him. She is the first girl he's even considered more with, but feels unworthy of her. He doesn't think he is capable of being the right guy for her and I hate that he has let his own past screw with his head so much.
Amber has undergone things that no person should ever have to face and it's disgusting how one person has managed to take away so much from her at such a young age. Amber knows loss better than anyone and has never opened up and talked about what happened before. She doesn't want the pity or attention. She just wants to go to school and become a veterinarian like she's always wanted. However, Amber suffers from PTSD and is still tormented by nightmares, as well as flashbacks of what happened. Her nightmares disrupt her roommate and causes undesirable tension between them and her flashbacks occur at any time of day. They are triggered by external forces and there's no stopping them. Sometimes Amber is able to come out of them and act like nothing is wrong, but there are other times where she is literally curled up in the fetal position still fighting and trying to keep her demons at bay.
Marcus ends up being the person to get through to her and after sharing his past with her and realizing the two have some common ground (having both lost people they loved dearly), ends up opening up to him and telling him the sordid details of her own. Marcus still has his doubts of whether or not he's good enough for her, but wants to take a chance and start a real relationship with her. They both still live with the horrors of their past, but are stronger together. However, there are forces that want to keep them apart and will go to extremely drastic measures to do so, leaving Amber questioning if she can really subject Marcus to her past catching up with her and hurting him.
While the story is a heavier one, there are a lot of really great moments between not only Amber and Marcus, but also with their best friends Jordan and Chase. They are both great friends to the two and even though Jordan has a boyfriend, I found myself wishing that Stina would write a companion novel with her as the lead. I personally felt there was more than friendship between Chase and Jordan and I wouldn't mind a book about them!
Marcus and Amber's families do play an influential role in their story. Amber's mother is having a hard time dealing with her own grief and instead of being a loving, nurturing parent to her, she ends up coming across as cold and unfeeling- drowning her sorrows in alcohol. Amber's grandmother is the one who steps in for Amber's mom and I'm really glad she had her to lean on and take care of her cat (who has special meaning to Amber). Marcus on the other hand, really has no one to call his family. His mother has made it clear she chooses his worthless step-father Frank over him. Marcus volunteers at a youth center and has formed an attachment to a few of the troubled kids that spend time there, especially one named Alejandro. Alejandro is a good kid who Marcus fears has gotten in with the wrong crowd. Marcus's former neighborhood is a tough one and with gang activity being as prominent as it is, he has afraid Alejandro has been recruited. I definitely did not expect Alejandro's story to go in the direction that it did and I felt my heart splinter into pieces for Marcus at the revelations that were brought to light concerning his past.
There are a few other notable characters, Emma and Tammara. Emma was Amber's former best friend and hasn't been able to mend fences with her after what happened. She goes out of her way to avoid her and when they do run into each other, Emma is hurt and even angry. Tammara is one of Marcus's hookups who doesn't seem to get the hint that they will never have anything more than just sex. She is manipulative and catty and the lengths she goes to in order to keep Marcus are insane. This girl needs to be dealt with and I hope Marcus and Amber make the right decision regarding her future.
Overall, I really enjoyed the emotional depth to this one, as well as the suspense and mystery that surrounded it. Some things were quite typical of New Adult, but I thought Lindenblatt wrote her story well and I thought she did a good job with her characterization.
*Received a copy of this book from InkSlingerPR in exchange for a fair and honest review.*
August 10, 2014
This book was a total googly.I did not expect much going into the story as the blurb sounds like any other YA/NA romance read and the book cover is less than appealing.Damaged girl meets troubled boy and they fall in love.Nothing earth shattering or worth remembering other than for quick entertainment,right? Wrong.That'll teach me not to judge a book by its cover. ;)
I picked this up just so that I could read the second one in the series whose blurb caught my eye.I was prepared to like it but not to love it as I ended up doing.The love story of an abused girl and boy is nothing unique or new to regular readers of this genre.But what makes this book stand out is the way the story is executed.For a first book,Tell Me When is written quite well.
This is the story of a girl who had a very bright future which was suddenly and very cruelly snatched away from her,who struggles to find her way back.This is the story of a boy who was dealt with a terrible hand when he was born and who despite all odds perseveres to carve a niche for himself through sheer hard work and determination.
The thing that made me pay attention to the story is when Amber and Marcus first meet.Amber notices Marcus to be a good looking guy with bad boy vibes,and Marcus sees Amber as a hot girl he can hook up with.Marcus hits on her,but she snubs him and takes off.Here I would like to bring to notice that both take notice of each other's good looks,but they don't dwell on it.Neither Amber nor Marcus think of their meeting to be anything worth remembering,there is no love at first sight or for that matter attraction other than as a casual hook up on Marcus's part.This meeting set up the momentum for me to start reading the story seriously,since this marked the difference from the other romance books where though not love at first sight,most MCs more often than not always experience lust or attraction at first sight.The protagonists here did not start thinking about the other until they got to know each other.
Amber was carrying a lot of baggage,things that happened to her were inhuman and so barbaric,I wouldn't wish it upon my worst enemy.No one deserves to go through what she did.Though she was vulnerable and fragile,she was a strong protagonist.She did not let her bad experiences to be an excuse to behave badly or outrageously.Marcus was an excellent pairing for Amber.He was also a damaged soul,who had a lot of issues.But he had such a sensitive heart,his constant fear that no one could ever love him was heartbreaking.Though described as a bad boy Marcus was never rude or out of line.In fact he's one of the best among men who despite his own troubles had a heart big enough to help out troubled kids like him in the community center in his old neighbourhood.My heart went out to both Amber and Marcus.
Both were suffering on their own but when they came together and confided in each other with their secrets,that was their first step to move on from the past.Their road to recovery is tough and will continue in the next book,Let Me Know.
Though there were minor issues with the book,such as,what was Marcus majoring in.It's told that he is an engineering student quite a few times but the specialization is never mentioned.Regardless,I loved the book very much,especially the math geek in me delighted in Marcus' corny math jokes.I also appreciated the support that Chase,Jordan and Emma provided to Amber and Marcus.They're a great group of friends.
Copy kindly provided by the author in exchange for an honest review
I picked this up just so that I could read the second one in the series whose blurb caught my eye.I was prepared to like it but not to love it as I ended up doing.The love story of an abused girl and boy is nothing unique or new to regular readers of this genre.But what makes this book stand out is the way the story is executed.For a first book,Tell Me When is written quite well.
This is the story of a girl who had a very bright future which was suddenly and very cruelly snatched away from her,who struggles to find her way back.This is the story of a boy who was dealt with a terrible hand when he was born and who despite all odds perseveres to carve a niche for himself through sheer hard work and determination.
The thing that made me pay attention to the story is when Amber and Marcus first meet.Amber notices Marcus to be a good looking guy with bad boy vibes,and Marcus sees Amber as a hot girl he can hook up with.Marcus hits on her,but she snubs him and takes off.Here I would like to bring to notice that both take notice of each other's good looks,but they don't dwell on it.Neither Amber nor Marcus think of their meeting to be anything worth remembering,there is no love at first sight or for that matter attraction other than as a casual hook up on Marcus's part.This meeting set up the momentum for me to start reading the story seriously,since this marked the difference from the other romance books where though not love at first sight,most MCs more often than not always experience lust or attraction at first sight.The protagonists here did not start thinking about the other until they got to know each other.
Amber was carrying a lot of baggage,things that happened to her were inhuman and so barbaric,I wouldn't wish it upon my worst enemy.No one deserves to go through what she did.Though she was vulnerable and fragile,she was a strong protagonist.She did not let her bad experiences to be an excuse to behave badly or outrageously.Marcus was an excellent pairing for Amber.He was also a damaged soul,who had a lot of issues.But he had such a sensitive heart,his constant fear that no one could ever love him was heartbreaking.Though described as a bad boy Marcus was never rude or out of line.In fact he's one of the best among men who despite his own troubles had a heart big enough to help out troubled kids like him in the community center in his old neighbourhood.My heart went out to both Amber and Marcus.
Both were suffering on their own but when they came together and confided in each other with their secrets,that was their first step to move on from the past.Their road to recovery is tough and will continue in the next book,Let Me Know.
Though there were minor issues with the book,such as,what was Marcus majoring in.It's told that he is an engineering student quite a few times but the specialization is never mentioned.Regardless,I loved the book very much,especially the math geek in me delighted in Marcus' corny math jokes.I also appreciated the support that Chase,Jordan and Emma provided to Amber and Marcus.They're a great group of friends.
Copy kindly provided by the author in exchange for an honest review
July 7, 2014
*I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.*
I'd give this a 3.5 stars...leaning more towards 4 than 3.
It's definitely a little more complex than your standard NA book. In addition to both main characters having their own tragic pasts to deal with, they also have more than a few obstacles that are complicating their lives in the present.
I loved that the first person POV (dual POV) created a nice conversational tone throughout the whole story. It did take a while for me to get in to it though. The vagueness regarding both Amber and Marcus's pasts, Amber's especially, made it a little difficult to initially get invested in the characters. I understand that there needs to be a certain secretive element, but it just got to be frustrating at points. You can sort of infer from rest of the story what happened in their lives, but it wasn't enough to really keep me hooked yet. Up until I knew more about what was going on, Amber's constant reminiscing and the 'flash-back' writing also took away from the present-day story. It wasn't until about 25% of the way through, pretty much once I had a better idea of Amber's past, that I felt really interested. There was another little lull at about 60%, but the story picked back up again pretty quickly.
I initially didn't think I was going to like this due to the first part kind of dragging, but Amber and Marcus's relationship is what really drew me in. I loved that they found strength in each other through their, unfortunately, common tragedy(s).
I wasn't really a fan of the Alejandro side story though. Since it felt like this was really more Amber's story than Marcus's, I thought there was enough to drive the plot with the stalker, Amber and Marcus's relationship, and the Jordan/Chase/Brittany parts. I know there needed to be an outlet for Marcus's side of things, but the Alejandro situation felt too far removed from the core of the story to really be a good base for that and too forced once it did finally circle back around.
I had a couple of issues with the ending. This was a pretty lengthy story that dealt with a lot of deep issues, so to end like that seemed kind of...cheap...maybe.
I really did enjoy the story though, and I'll definitely be continuing on with the series to see how Amber and Marcus's future unfolds and how everything ultimately ends up.
Because I'm a stickler a for editing, I would like to say THANK YOU to the author and editor. I honestly don't recall coming across more than a few small errors, mainly punctuation, which unfortunately has not been the case for a lot of books I've read lately. It is much appreciated!
I'd give this a 3.5 stars...leaning more towards 4 than 3.
It's definitely a little more complex than your standard NA book. In addition to both main characters having their own tragic pasts to deal with, they also have more than a few obstacles that are complicating their lives in the present.
I loved that the first person POV (dual POV) created a nice conversational tone throughout the whole story. It did take a while for me to get in to it though. The vagueness regarding both Amber and Marcus's pasts, Amber's especially, made it a little difficult to initially get invested in the characters. I understand that there needs to be a certain secretive element, but it just got to be frustrating at points. You can sort of infer from rest of the story what happened in their lives, but it wasn't enough to really keep me hooked yet. Up until I knew more about what was going on, Amber's constant reminiscing and the 'flash-back' writing also took away from the present-day story. It wasn't until about 25% of the way through, pretty much once I had a better idea of Amber's past, that I felt really interested. There was another little lull at about 60%, but the story picked back up again pretty quickly.
I initially didn't think I was going to like this due to the first part kind of dragging, but Amber and Marcus's relationship is what really drew me in. I loved that they found strength in each other through their, unfortunately, common tragedy(s).
I wasn't really a fan of the Alejandro side story though. Since it felt like this was really more Amber's story than Marcus's, I thought there was enough to drive the plot with the stalker, Amber and Marcus's relationship, and the Jordan/Chase/Brittany parts. I know there needed to be an outlet for Marcus's side of things, but the Alejandro situation felt too far removed from the core of the story to really be a good base for that and too forced once it did finally circle back around.
I had a couple of issues with the ending. This was a pretty lengthy story that dealt with a lot of deep issues, so to end like that seemed kind of...cheap...maybe.
I really did enjoy the story though, and I'll definitely be continuing on with the series to see how Amber and Marcus's future unfolds and how everything ultimately ends up.
Because I'm a stickler a for editing, I would like to say THANK YOU to the author and editor. I honestly don't recall coming across more than a few small errors, mainly punctuation, which unfortunately has not been the case for a lot of books I've read lately. It is much appreciated!
February 15, 2014
*** ARC received in exchange of an honest review ***
4.5 out of 5 Stars for this thoughtful and gripping story!
Amber Scott is a college freshman pursuing her dream of becoming a veterinarian. Yet, she struggles hard with maths... Marcus Reid is a notorious manwhore, and someone Amber knows not to get involved with, but he also studies engineering and seems like the best option for her to get back on track for her next math exam.
However, the more time they spend together, the more Marcus grows attracted to Amber and wants to help her. Indeed, deep inside he feels Amber is not herself, and constantly scared. What's more, her scars can only so much as hint to what she must have been through. To get her to talk, Marcus knows no better way than to make her feel safe and tell him about his dark past, too.
Tell Me When is one of these stories where the manwhore suddenly grows into a picture-perfect boyfriend after finding the girl of his dreams, one that understands him without judging. That might be quite predictable, but it didn't take the suspense out of the book.
Indeed, the whole story around the events that made Amber and Marcus what they are is only gradually revealed, which entices the reader the read on. There's also an intrigue - when both their pasts are coming back to haunt them - that keeps the book's fire burning. And finally, there's also the whole love-story growing between the two main characters, which I liked very much.
The story is actually quite deep and deals with the mechanisms of coping with grief, rape and abuse, and the self-inflicted guilt thereof - and most importantly, admitting that reaching out for help is not a weakness. It is also about being afraid to love again, with a fear of attachment induced by a fear of loss. It is definitely not a heavy read, but contains just the right amount of romance, action, and morale, that makes it a perfectly enjoyable book you won't be able to put down!
I especially enjoyed the fact that the characters where indeed messed up by there past (as n heavily influenced and affected by it) but not in a way that made them act like total airheads, as is often the case in other books with similar storylines, what makes a read very frustrating. This story depicts the characters' normal and understandable way to cope and how sometimes it takes someone to help you deal with it as you cannot always get everything done on your own.
I will definitely be checking out the author's other works!
4.5 out of 5 Stars for this thoughtful and gripping story!
Amber Scott is a college freshman pursuing her dream of becoming a veterinarian. Yet, she struggles hard with maths... Marcus Reid is a notorious manwhore, and someone Amber knows not to get involved with, but he also studies engineering and seems like the best option for her to get back on track for her next math exam.
However, the more time they spend together, the more Marcus grows attracted to Amber and wants to help her. Indeed, deep inside he feels Amber is not herself, and constantly scared. What's more, her scars can only so much as hint to what she must have been through. To get her to talk, Marcus knows no better way than to make her feel safe and tell him about his dark past, too.
Tell Me When is one of these stories where the manwhore suddenly grows into a picture-perfect boyfriend after finding the girl of his dreams, one that understands him without judging. That might be quite predictable, but it didn't take the suspense out of the book.
Indeed, the whole story around the events that made Amber and Marcus what they are is only gradually revealed, which entices the reader the read on. There's also an intrigue - when both their pasts are coming back to haunt them - that keeps the book's fire burning. And finally, there's also the whole love-story growing between the two main characters, which I liked very much.
The story is actually quite deep and deals with the mechanisms of coping with grief, rape and abuse, and the self-inflicted guilt thereof - and most importantly, admitting that reaching out for help is not a weakness. It is also about being afraid to love again, with a fear of attachment induced by a fear of loss. It is definitely not a heavy read, but contains just the right amount of romance, action, and morale, that makes it a perfectly enjoyable book you won't be able to put down!
I especially enjoyed the fact that the characters where indeed messed up by there past (as n heavily influenced and affected by it) but not in a way that made them act like total airheads, as is often the case in other books with similar storylines, what makes a read very frustrating. This story depicts the characters' normal and understandable way to cope and how sometimes it takes someone to help you deal with it as you cannot always get everything done on your own.
I will definitely be checking out the author's other works!
January 23, 2014
This book was quite the rollercoaster ride. It is more than just a love story. It’s beautiful and heartbreaking and sadly… to be continued. Don’t fret though people, it’s not a cliff-hanger! The story of Amber and Marcus is way too complex to be summed up in one book. So now I just sit here and eagerly await their ultimate happy ending and the ride Stina will take me on to get there.
Imagine living your life always thinking someone is watching you, following your every move. Panic attacks at the slightness memory of what your past held and cripples your ability to function normally. Well, Amber deals with those things, and as you could imagine, that is not a fun way to live. She spent three weeks of her life living to survive any way she had to. She has the scars from it, inside and out. Not only is she trying to overcome the trauma of her own ordeal, but she also has an enormous amount of guilt that came along with it and how others in her life were affected by it. Living normally doesn't seem ever possible, but then she meets Marcus…
Marcus hasn’t had an easy life either. Watching his big brother die at the hands of his horrendously evil step-father and a mother who did nothing to protect her own children from him. With the burden of keeping a secret, a request made by his dying brother, Marcus soon comes to realize there are huge consequence’s that came with burying that secret with his dead brother. It not only changed his life forever, but also the life of a young boy he was trying to protect. The only thing is, he was trying to protect him from the wrong thing. As the secrets of his past come crashing down, will he be able to overcome this new guilt?
Stina did a great job at making me feel the emotional ride Marcus and Amber took throughout the story. Their chemistry was easily felt as their emotional and physical bond formed across the pages. Not only did this book contain some serious and dark subject matter (on both characters behalf’s) that was well put together, but it also included some fun, light flirty banter between the two that added a swoony smile every now and then.
If you are looking for well written story that will take you on a ride of highs and lows of our human emotional states and of the good and the bad of what life is willing to offer, then I highly suggest you read this fantastic story!
Imagine living your life always thinking someone is watching you, following your every move. Panic attacks at the slightness memory of what your past held and cripples your ability to function normally. Well, Amber deals with those things, and as you could imagine, that is not a fun way to live. She spent three weeks of her life living to survive any way she had to. She has the scars from it, inside and out. Not only is she trying to overcome the trauma of her own ordeal, but she also has an enormous amount of guilt that came along with it and how others in her life were affected by it. Living normally doesn't seem ever possible, but then she meets Marcus…
Marcus hasn’t had an easy life either. Watching his big brother die at the hands of his horrendously evil step-father and a mother who did nothing to protect her own children from him. With the burden of keeping a secret, a request made by his dying brother, Marcus soon comes to realize there are huge consequence’s that came with burying that secret with his dead brother. It not only changed his life forever, but also the life of a young boy he was trying to protect. The only thing is, he was trying to protect him from the wrong thing. As the secrets of his past come crashing down, will he be able to overcome this new guilt?
Stina did a great job at making me feel the emotional ride Marcus and Amber took throughout the story. Their chemistry was easily felt as their emotional and physical bond formed across the pages. Not only did this book contain some serious and dark subject matter (on both characters behalf’s) that was well put together, but it also included some fun, light flirty banter between the two that added a swoony smile every now and then.
If you are looking for well written story that will take you on a ride of highs and lows of our human emotional states and of the good and the bad of what life is willing to offer, then I highly suggest you read this fantastic story!
July 25, 2014
'Tell Me When' was a really great read, at points it was quite dark and heart wrenching but those moments were very well balanced with the relationships in this story, both friendships and romance.
The book tells the story of Amber who has a very dark past and because of that she's built a wall and tries to keep as low of a profile as possible that is until Marcus comes along and slowly breaks down that wall. He too has his own demons but is it too dangerous for them to be together? He starts off as her Math tutor as she is failing in Math and then very slowly a beautiful relationship is created.
I really liked Amber's character she wasn't once an annoying and aggravating heroine. I felt her strength and her vulnerability and I was rooting for her throughout the whole book and when an author manages to keep that consistent you know the characterisation is done very well. She's so lovely and down to Earth you couldn't help but really love her. She was so easy to empathise with as well.
Marcus was such an awesome hero, I loved him when he took care of Amber and when he was his cheeky self. Marcus carries so much on his shoulders as well and yet he is so strong and funny. This makes him such an admirable character and I really do believe he brought all of this strength and happiness into Amber's life too.
Amber and Marcus' relationship was so beautiful. There were moments were you might not think it could work out because they are both so emotionally traumatised and that is how their romance was created but I think their issues gave each other the strength and belief they both needed to overcome their own issues and carry on with their relationship with each other. They were such an adorable couple.
I absolutely loved Amber's bff, Jordan and Marcus', Chase. They both were such brilliant friends and were really there for both Amber and Marcus. I think Jordan and Chase had some definite chemistry there and the author could write an amazing story with the two of them.
All in all, this is such a beautiful book, quite dark at times but the romance is the light at the end of the tunnel. I can't wait to read more of Amber and Marcus' story, hopefully some more of Jordan and Chase too!
*Thanks to the author who sent me a free copy in exchange of a review*
The book tells the story of Amber who has a very dark past and because of that she's built a wall and tries to keep as low of a profile as possible that is until Marcus comes along and slowly breaks down that wall. He too has his own demons but is it too dangerous for them to be together? He starts off as her Math tutor as she is failing in Math and then very slowly a beautiful relationship is created.
I really liked Amber's character she wasn't once an annoying and aggravating heroine. I felt her strength and her vulnerability and I was rooting for her throughout the whole book and when an author manages to keep that consistent you know the characterisation is done very well. She's so lovely and down to Earth you couldn't help but really love her. She was so easy to empathise with as well.
Marcus was such an awesome hero, I loved him when he took care of Amber and when he was his cheeky self. Marcus carries so much on his shoulders as well and yet he is so strong and funny. This makes him such an admirable character and I really do believe he brought all of this strength and happiness into Amber's life too.
Amber and Marcus' relationship was so beautiful. There were moments were you might not think it could work out because they are both so emotionally traumatised and that is how their romance was created but I think their issues gave each other the strength and belief they both needed to overcome their own issues and carry on with their relationship with each other. They were such an adorable couple.
I absolutely loved Amber's bff, Jordan and Marcus', Chase. They both were such brilliant friends and were really there for both Amber and Marcus. I think Jordan and Chase had some definite chemistry there and the author could write an amazing story with the two of them.
All in all, this is such a beautiful book, quite dark at times but the romance is the light at the end of the tunnel. I can't wait to read more of Amber and Marcus' story, hopefully some more of Jordan and Chase too!
*Thanks to the author who sent me a free copy in exchange of a review*
July 15, 2014
3.5 stars.
This book follows the familiar new adult angle of two broken people meeting and falling in love. I think it'll appeal to people who enjoyed Tammara Webber's Easy and want something along those lines.
I thought the portrayal of Amber's PTSD was very well-done. PTSD manifests in different ways -- because people are different -- but I find that its depiction is often flattened in fiction. Maybe because it's often used for angsty, dramatic effect without any idea of how it actually affects real people in real life. I didn't feel that was the case here and I thought that Amber's struggle with her PTSD (or even acknowledging that it was PTSD) and realizing that she needed to get help was a huge part of the story.
I liked Marcus. (I say this as a reader who's a bit tired of the stereotypical bad boy character.) I think it's because we see him looking after the boys from his old neighborhood, and that added a nice dimension to the "I don't date, I just have one-night stands!" cliche.
I do think that some of the events towards the end were a bit discordant (not the revelation of Marcus's abuse or what happened to his brother, but the actual plot elements) -- overly dramatic for the sake of adding excitement and possibly drawing out a plotline for the sequel. I'm a bit ambivalent about that part.
One thing I would have liked to have seen would be the narrative pushing back against Amber's self-directed victim blaming. (I led him on. / I can't dress like this. / etc) We do start to get it more towards the end but I wanted to see that earlier because man, I am tired of victim blaming in NA novels! (This might be my love of Easy coming through for its unabashed girl positivity and support.) It's always tricky with a new-to-me author because I never know which side they're going to fall on. Lindenblatt ultimately pulls through for me but there were some bits where I was disquieted until that happened.
Despite all that, I'm not sure if I plan on reading the follow-up. I guess I like my love stories to be wrapped up in one book these days. Might wait to see reviews before I decide.
This book follows the familiar new adult angle of two broken people meeting and falling in love. I think it'll appeal to people who enjoyed Tammara Webber's Easy and want something along those lines.
I thought the portrayal of Amber's PTSD was very well-done. PTSD manifests in different ways -- because people are different -- but I find that its depiction is often flattened in fiction. Maybe because it's often used for angsty, dramatic effect without any idea of how it actually affects real people in real life. I didn't feel that was the case here and I thought that Amber's struggle with her PTSD (or even acknowledging that it was PTSD) and realizing that she needed to get help was a huge part of the story.
I liked Marcus. (I say this as a reader who's a bit tired of the stereotypical bad boy character.) I think it's because we see him looking after the boys from his old neighborhood, and that added a nice dimension to the "I don't date, I just have one-night stands!" cliche.
I do think that some of the events towards the end were a bit discordant (not the revelation of Marcus's abuse or what happened to his brother, but the actual plot elements) -- overly dramatic for the sake of adding excitement and possibly drawing out a plotline for the sequel. I'm a bit ambivalent about that part.
One thing I would have liked to have seen would be the narrative pushing back against Amber's self-directed victim blaming. (I led him on. / I can't dress like this. / etc) We do start to get it more towards the end but I wanted to see that earlier because man, I am tired of victim blaming in NA novels! (This might be my love of Easy coming through for its unabashed girl positivity and support.) It's always tricky with a new-to-me author because I never know which side they're going to fall on. Lindenblatt ultimately pulls through for me but there were some bits where I was disquieted until that happened.
Despite all that, I'm not sure if I plan on reading the follow-up. I guess I like my love stories to be wrapped up in one book these days. Might wait to see reviews before I decide.
January 20, 2014
This review and others can be found on http://www.bookishtreasures.blogspot.com
Tell Me When tackles some difficult topics, topics that are also covered a surprising amount in New Adult contemporary romance novels. I felt that even though the subject matter is a little over used, Tell Me When did it in a way that was rawer, darker and more realistic and that made it feel fresh and unique.
Amber has had some really dark things occur in her past and as a result she is pretty messed up and is struggling to live a normal life. She is paranoid and suffers from flashbacks and nightmares that make her not want to sleep at night. After growing close to her Math tutor things start to get better but she still has a long way to go.
Tell Me When focuses a lot on Amber’s personal growth as the battles the demons of her past with the help of a guy with just as horrific a past to overcome. I would say that the romance almost takes a backseat to the themes of getting over the past and moving on with your life, but don’t worry, the romance is still a very large and crucial aspect of the plot!
Marcus may be a womanising bad boy but he is far from typical. He is incredibly smart, driven and wants nothing more than to move up in the world so that his sister can have a better life (how adorable!). Family is the number one most important thing in his life and nothing, not even a girl who touches his heart, will get in the way of his plans.
I found this book to be incredibly moving and powerful. Stina Lindenblatt is a talented writer who really makes you feel for the characters. Amber and Marcus both had such inner strength and an amazing connection. You really find yourself rooting for them as a couple and hoping that they will overcome all obstacles even when it looks like things won’t end well.
I am looking forwarded to reading more books by this debut author. Tell Me When is an emotional contemporary must read.
*I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review, this has not affected my opinions or rating in anyway.*
Tell Me When tackles some difficult topics, topics that are also covered a surprising amount in New Adult contemporary romance novels. I felt that even though the subject matter is a little over used, Tell Me When did it in a way that was rawer, darker and more realistic and that made it feel fresh and unique.
Amber has had some really dark things occur in her past and as a result she is pretty messed up and is struggling to live a normal life. She is paranoid and suffers from flashbacks and nightmares that make her not want to sleep at night. After growing close to her Math tutor things start to get better but she still has a long way to go.
Tell Me When focuses a lot on Amber’s personal growth as the battles the demons of her past with the help of a guy with just as horrific a past to overcome. I would say that the romance almost takes a backseat to the themes of getting over the past and moving on with your life, but don’t worry, the romance is still a very large and crucial aspect of the plot!
Marcus may be a womanising bad boy but he is far from typical. He is incredibly smart, driven and wants nothing more than to move up in the world so that his sister can have a better life (how adorable!). Family is the number one most important thing in his life and nothing, not even a girl who touches his heart, will get in the way of his plans.
I found this book to be incredibly moving and powerful. Stina Lindenblatt is a talented writer who really makes you feel for the characters. Amber and Marcus both had such inner strength and an amazing connection. You really find yourself rooting for them as a couple and hoping that they will overcome all obstacles even when it looks like things won’t end well.
I am looking forwarded to reading more books by this debut author. Tell Me When is an emotional contemporary must read.
*I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review, this has not affected my opinions or rating in anyway.*
July 11, 2014
Thank you for giving me the opportunity to read your book, here is my review.
"Tell me when" is one of the best books I recently read. Ms Lindeblatt handles the tough subject of abuse with an exquisite sensitivity " une sensibilité à fleur de peau" and at the same time creates memorable and totally real, credible characters.
I like very much how the author crafted a beautiful, touching story that binds love, trust, a true mastery of psychology and a thrill for a creepy mystery.
Both Amber and Marcus are broken, Amber by being victim to a psychopath who not only harms her physically, but scars her soul depriving her of two of the most important people in her life (no spoiler!), Marcus by the lack of love and brutal, abusive upbringing. What are the chances to put back together the pieces of a shattered heart? Love, friendship and trust re-create the beautiful heart, even if not as it was, different, but stronger and wiser. I like how Amber grows over the nightmares and flashbacks and recognizing a soul mate in Marcus, begins not only to build a new relationship, but more important, gets over "weak asks for help" and manages to look for help herself and supports her mother to make an important, life changing decision. Even the secondary characters are well built, Jordan tries to be a good friend, Emma keeps being a good friend once she gets to finally discuss with Amber, Tammara is the villain (very convincingly though) and Chase is the devoted good friend. Maybe the core idea of the book is that abuse is terrible, but the isolation and alienation engendered by it are even worse, looking for help and getting it is essential for learning not how to forget, but how to live with and overcome it.
I look forward to the book #2 and I hop Ms Lindenblatt gives Amber and Marcus the happy ending they deserve.
I wholeheartedly recommend "Tell me when" to anyone looking for a good book.
"Tell me when" is one of the best books I recently read. Ms Lindeblatt handles the tough subject of abuse with an exquisite sensitivity " une sensibilité à fleur de peau" and at the same time creates memorable and totally real, credible characters.
I like very much how the author crafted a beautiful, touching story that binds love, trust, a true mastery of psychology and a thrill for a creepy mystery.
Both Amber and Marcus are broken, Amber by being victim to a psychopath who not only harms her physically, but scars her soul depriving her of two of the most important people in her life (no spoiler!), Marcus by the lack of love and brutal, abusive upbringing. What are the chances to put back together the pieces of a shattered heart? Love, friendship and trust re-create the beautiful heart, even if not as it was, different, but stronger and wiser. I like how Amber grows over the nightmares and flashbacks and recognizing a soul mate in Marcus, begins not only to build a new relationship, but more important, gets over "weak asks for help" and manages to look for help herself and supports her mother to make an important, life changing decision. Even the secondary characters are well built, Jordan tries to be a good friend, Emma keeps being a good friend once she gets to finally discuss with Amber, Tammara is the villain (very convincingly though) and Chase is the devoted good friend. Maybe the core idea of the book is that abuse is terrible, but the isolation and alienation engendered by it are even worse, looking for help and getting it is essential for learning not how to forget, but how to live with and overcome it.
I look forward to the book #2 and I hop Ms Lindenblatt gives Amber and Marcus the happy ending they deserve.
I wholeheartedly recommend "Tell me when" to anyone looking for a good book.
July 19, 2016
Tell Me When is an interesting new adult romance. You have your typical broken main characters who are trying to overcome their horrific pasts when they find comfort in each other. Their pasts come back to life to cause drama bombs in the story thus resulting in an unstable foundation. However, with that being said, this was an interesting read with new reasons on why the MC's are broken.
Amber suffers from PTSD due to something that recently happened to her. Little by little you get the story as to what happened to her because every day is a challenge for her. Not only is she afraid of her own shadow, but certain things like lightening and roses bring back horrible flashbacks. So the readers never forget how traumatized Amber is throughout the story.
Marcus was your typical man whore who uses sex to overcome his pain. However, when meeting Amber he finds himself wanting a monogamous relationship. Yeah, he's just like every other bad boy but the thing that torments him isn't just a deadbeat mom. Oh no, it's a lot worse than that and it horrified me.
Even though this story sort of follows the new adult mold, the author still thought outside the box and brought new elements into the story. I liked that even though the storyline was predictable, Stina was able to surprise me with small twists that I wasn't expecting.
Amber suffers from PTSD due to something that recently happened to her. Little by little you get the story as to what happened to her because every day is a challenge for her. Not only is she afraid of her own shadow, but certain things like lightening and roses bring back horrible flashbacks. So the readers never forget how traumatized Amber is throughout the story.
Marcus was your typical man whore who uses sex to overcome his pain. However, when meeting Amber he finds himself wanting a monogamous relationship. Yeah, he's just like every other bad boy but the thing that torments him isn't just a deadbeat mom. Oh no, it's a lot worse than that and it horrified me.
Even though this story sort of follows the new adult mold, the author still thought outside the box and brought new elements into the story. I liked that even though the storyline was predictable, Stina was able to surprise me with small twists that I wasn't expecting.
July 4, 2014
AN ALMOST-5-STARS READ!!!
It's been quite a long while since I've stumbled across a good novel. Well, I guess it's about time! Better yet, I never expected the story to be this good(dont you love it when this happens). *i was also lucky enough to receive the last copy for an honest review*
Amber - our girl who frequently has nightmares and flashbacks from a terrible ordeal. She has been through a lot and really blames herself for other people who were also hurt.
Marcus - our sexy engineer who is also an excellent maths tutor. He, too, has a heart wrenching past.
Put them both together and kaboom CHEMISTRY!!
(I liked how it wasn't lust at first sight for Amber. More like freaked at first sight.)
"This sweet and loving man, with all his scars both inside and out, is as perfect as you can get. And he’s mine."
I was hooked from the first chapter all the way to the last! I loved how eventhough this book has the typical "broken hero and heroine", it felt FRESH. It wasn't really all that predictable(PLOT TWIST BEEP BEEP BEEP) and it really kept me into the story throughout. I felt the ending/events leading up the ending were rather rushed, but everything still continued smoothly and is a H.E.A. :D
It's been quite a long while since I've stumbled across a good novel. Well, I guess it's about time! Better yet, I never expected the story to be this good(dont you love it when this happens). *i was also lucky enough to receive the last copy for an honest review*
Amber - our girl who frequently has nightmares and flashbacks from a terrible ordeal. She has been through a lot and really blames herself for other people who were also hurt.
Marcus - our sexy engineer who is also an excellent maths tutor. He, too, has a heart wrenching past.
Put them both together and kaboom CHEMISTRY!!
(I liked how it wasn't lust at first sight for Amber. More like freaked at first sight.)
"This sweet and loving man, with all his scars both inside and out, is as perfect as you can get. And he’s mine."
I was hooked from the first chapter all the way to the last! I loved how eventhough this book has the typical "broken hero and heroine", it felt FRESH. It wasn't really all that predictable(PLOT TWIST BEEP BEEP BEEP) and it really kept me into the story throughout. I felt the ending/events leading up the ending were rather rushed, but everything still continued smoothly and is a H.E.A. :D
November 26, 2015
I received this book from the author in exchange for my honest review.
Wow this book was amazing. I could not put it down, it had me hooked right from the start. It is an emotional, heart-wrenching read. Both Amber and Marcus have lived through devastating pasts. They lean on each other to help them get through their pasts to move forward. The connection between Amber and Marcus was so amazing. You felt how much they needed each other and loved each other. Amber was such a strong character, for everything that she went through. Yes she had her problems with what happened but she was finally able to open up about them and work to get through that. Marcus was an amazing book boyfriend, even though he was your typical bad boy he cared and protected Amber he never gave up on them or her. I also really loved Chase and Jordan they helped with the fun side of the book.
I cannot wait to read the next book in the series to see what happens next.
Wow this book was amazing. I could not put it down, it had me hooked right from the start. It is an emotional, heart-wrenching read. Both Amber and Marcus have lived through devastating pasts. They lean on each other to help them get through their pasts to move forward. The connection between Amber and Marcus was so amazing. You felt how much they needed each other and loved each other. Amber was such a strong character, for everything that she went through. Yes she had her problems with what happened but she was finally able to open up about them and work to get through that. Marcus was an amazing book boyfriend, even though he was your typical bad boy he cared and protected Amber he never gave up on them or her. I also really loved Chase and Jordan they helped with the fun side of the book.
I cannot wait to read the next book in the series to see what happens next.
November 25, 2021
Amber and Marcus' Story . . .
Both of these characters are remarkable people who have come through some very bad experiences. The emotions the author brings out are very real and I admire anyone who can go through something like that and come out the other side. Of course Amber still suffers from PTSD, but she is pushing forward to get her degree and reach her dreams. Marcus has also had a difficult past. But when these two get together when she hires him as her math tutor, you can feel the healing begin. They have more to experience as Amber has to deal with a relentless stalker. They are protective of each other, but just having someone who cares that much gives additional strength and courage.
Grab your copy and share their experience. As bad as the past can be, these two are still able to fall in love. That is powerful and inspirational. People can be so amazing. See if they make it through together and find a HEA.
Both of these characters are remarkable people who have come through some very bad experiences. The emotions the author brings out are very real and I admire anyone who can go through something like that and come out the other side. Of course Amber still suffers from PTSD, but she is pushing forward to get her degree and reach her dreams. Marcus has also had a difficult past. But when these two get together when she hires him as her math tutor, you can feel the healing begin. They have more to experience as Amber has to deal with a relentless stalker. They are protective of each other, but just having someone who cares that much gives additional strength and courage.
Grab your copy and share their experience. As bad as the past can be, these two are still able to fall in love. That is powerful and inspirational. People can be so amazing. See if they make it through together and find a HEA.
July 5, 2014
Wow, this was a very emotional read. This book is packed with heart shattering topics. This was a good book that held my attention well and the writing was good minus a few words here or there that missed editing but nothing major. The only thing that I found I didn't really like about it was the amount of....cant think of a word I want to use but the bottom line is it felt like maybe there was too much going on to feel real. Not just one of the characters had a heart shattering event, all of the primary ones did. I think a few of the victims stories could have been left out and maybe been put into a second book or something because it was a bit much for one book. Other then that though, I enjoyed the book and will read more by the author in the future.
January 22, 2014
Tell Me When is an engrossing, touching, raw and deeply emotional story.
I was hooked from the beginning. I really couldn´t put it down.
This story you do more than like and love. You live it. You feel every single emotion.
Tell Me When is the story about healing, hope, trying to move forward, to find the strength inside to overcome and learn to live with the scars inside and outside.
Amber and Marcus´s journey is gripping and will bring tears to the readers eyes when their hard pasts are revealed.
Looking forward to read more from Stina in the future.
≧◔◡◔≦ 5 ✰ read ≧◉◡◉≦
>>>ARC received in exchange for an honest review<<<
I was hooked from the beginning. I really couldn´t put it down.
This story you do more than like and love. You live it. You feel every single emotion.
Tell Me When is the story about healing, hope, trying to move forward, to find the strength inside to overcome and learn to live with the scars inside and outside.
Amber and Marcus´s journey is gripping and will bring tears to the readers eyes when their hard pasts are revealed.
Looking forward to read more from Stina in the future.
≧◔◡◔≦ 5 ✰ read ≧◉◡◉≦
>>>ARC received in exchange for an honest review<<<
January 27, 2014
Wow, this was so not what I was expecting. So many NA books seem to have the same theme going on so I wasn't expecting much with a description like that. There is so much about this book to love from the story line, to the characters. I enjoyed seeing the characters develop as time went on. There was twists and turns. There was enough mystery to keep the readers guess, and suspense to what to know what happens next. I loved that no matter my assumptions I just kept getting it wrong, this book was unpredictable. Overall I loved everything about this book and highly recommend you lovely readers to check out this book.
5 of 5 Stars!
5 of 5 Stars!
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