I Found You

Starting Out #1

by Jane Lark

Tomorrow is for regrets. Tonight is for being together.

On a cold winter night, Rachel and Jason’s lives collide on Manhattan Bridge. She’s running from life, he’s running toward it. But compassion urges him to help her.

His offer of a place to stay leads to friendship and trouble. There’s his fiancée back home in Oregon and a family who just don’t trust this girl from the wrong side of the tracks.

But when the connection between them is so electric, so right… everyone else must be wrong. And as the snow begins to settle on the Hudson, there’s nothing but the possibility of what could be – of this, right here, right now. Them.

Genres: New Adult, Romance, Contemporary Romance, Contemporary, Emotional, Ebooks

360 pages, Kindle Edition

First published December 5, 2013

About the author

Jane is a writer of authentic, passionate and emotional Historical and New Adult Romance, and a Kindle top 25 bestselling author.

She began her first historical novel at sixteen, but a life full of adversity derailed her as she lives with the restrictions of Ankylosing Spondylitis.

When she finally completed a novel it was because she was determined not to reach forty still saying, I want to write.

Now Jane is writing a Regency series and contemporary, new adult, stories and she is thrilled to be giving her characters life in others' imaginations at last.

You might think that Jane was inspired to write by Jane Austen, especially as she lives near Bath in the United Kingdom, but you would be wrong. Jane's favourite author is Anya Seton, and the book which drew her into the bliss of falling into historical imagination was 'Katherine' a story crafted from reality.

Jane has drawn on this inspiration to discover other real-life love stories, reading memoirs and letters to capture elements of the past, and she uses them to create more realistic plots.

'Basically I love history and I am sucker for a love story. I love the feeling of falling in love; it's wonderful being able to do it time and time again in fiction.'

Jane is also a Chartered Member of the Institute of Personnel and Development in the United Kingdom, and uses this specialist understanding of people to bring her characters to life.

Reviews

[Angelina · Rating 4 out of 5]

"4 Glad I found you Stars"




A love story started in Manhattan bridge.. It was a fantastic read pure of emotion and crazy drama yet it was heartbreaking.

Rachel Shears grow up in Philadelphia with an alcoholic mother who doesn't care. She runaway from home as soon as she can. Using her body to survived and jumping to everyman who gives her a little attention. One day she decided to get out of her life.. running from her past and crazy messed up life.. She decided to end her life but a guy saved her, help her and offers her a place to live.

Jason Macinlay is an amazing guy that wears his hearts on his sleeves. From a small town of Oregon with a fiance back home he decided to live in New York and chase his dream. One night while running he seen this girl over the bridge with nothing but a pair of jeans, shirt and shoes in a cold winter night. He takes the risk to help the girl and offers her a place to live.

"Tomorrow is for regrets. Tonight is for being together."

Like faith bring them together to save one another. Living and giving comfort to one another the connection and attraction grows... but everyone else must be wrong.. there’s nothing but the possibility of what could be – of this, right here, right now. Them.

I love the story and I did enjoy reading it. I love how the story flows, the twist and drama and how both charters grows. The reckless moments that bounds them more. I can say there is some parts that I was respecting more to happens... but still I love how the story ends and it was a beautiful HEA.

Im glad that I received a copy of this and I can say I definitely recommend this to all NA fans and I'm so looking forward to read more books from the author.



ARC provided by publishers via Netgalley in exchange for honest review.

[Derna · Rating 4 out of 5]

**** I received an ARC copy of this book in exchange for an honest review ***

I Found You, is Jane Lark’s first attempt at writing a New Adult book, and after reading it, I was impressed and I really enjoyed it. It definitely has all the elements of what I like when it comes to reading a New Adult book.

While out running one night across Manhattan Bridge Jason Macinlay meets and Rachel Shears, a girl who thinks she has nothing left to live for. When Jason offers her his help and Rachel takes it, it turns into something much more something that they both didn’t expect.

“I didn’t know Rachel, but I did know she’d got herself in a mess, somehow, and she needed help” ~ Jason

“There was something about him that made me feel safer than I’d felt in an entire year, or maybe longer’ ~ Rachel

I liked Rachel she had an air of mystery about her, and I curious to know what, and why lead her to be on that bridge that night. As the story unfolded, and I discover more about her childhood, her past, her lifestyle, and her secret my heart went out to her, and I was glad that Jason had found her that night.

“I felt good with him. I could even fell normal with him. In a way I hadn’t felt normal for years”~ Rachel

Jason was a good guy, and I really liked him. He was kind, sweet, protective, and caring. I liked the way he was with Rachel at the start and how he went with his own feelings and ignoring the pressures he was getting from his family and friends. I loved the way he always stood by her even when things got tough.

“We’d begun something tonight and for the first time in my life, I’d had no idea when I was going or what would happen next? But I’d got on a roller coaster I didn’t want to stop. I couldn’t get off.”~ Jason

Rachel and Jason were great characters. I liked the connection they had, the friendship that first develop. When it turns into something more it isn’t insta love, but their feelings are intense, and things in the relationship do move fast, and that’s mainly to do with the circumstances that they face.

“We’re right for each other, we both know it. So don’t start fighting it, and for god sake do not regret me. I’m not regretting anything. I know us getting together has been sudden, too sudden to know each other properly. But so what. I know this is right, Rachel. Don’t you? I’m not wrong, am I” ~ Jason


Rachel and Jason are sweet together, good together. They find each other easy to talk too; and even thought both come from very different backgrounds, different worlds they are comfortable around each other, and they have what each other needed both physically and emotionally.

“We were probably the most unlikely couple; if I could call us that. Our meeting had been accidental, and we were poles apart. But I wanted to see if could work, if I could succeed in like with a nice guy” ~ Rachel

I wanted to take every hurt from her. The emotion was a living being in my chest, it roared and breathed fire and grew hungry with need. ~ Jason

Jason gives Rachel the stability and the unconditional love that she has never had from anyone before. Rachel makes Jason take life less serious, and brings his more carefree side. I definitely got that soul mate feeling with these two. The attraction and chemistry between Rachel and Jason is hot, and lead to some steamy sexy scenes.

“I’d changed. I know I had. I hadn’t quite yet found my new fit, but this good guy, had rubbed off on me” ~ Rachel

I enjoy the storyline it was sweet, romantic, heartbreaking and heart warming. The drama; angst, and twist and turns a kept the story interesting. Rachel and Jason do go through some obstacles due to family, a fiancée, and an ex, and I couldn’t help but root for them.

Told from both points of view, I liked the author style of switching between Rachel and Jason during some of the intense scenes, so you get to see what they are both thing at that moment, their feelings for each other, their fears and worries. Both are emotional thinkers, and I like that as their emotions pulled on my emotions.

There were secondary characters that added to the story, and while they annoyed me with some of their actions, at the same time I could understand them.

Overall I really enjoyed I Found You, and while I guess some of the twist there were some that I didn’t. I would also say a couple of parts I find myself wanting some more information, but that being said it was only a few and it didn’t take away my enjoyment of the book as I was hooked from the beginning.

I liked Jane Lark’s writing style I found it really engaging. I felt the story flowed well I really liked the ending I have to say I was a little anxious for a while as the story could have gone two ways, and I was pleased with the way it went no cliffhanger just a sweet epilogue.

I have not read any of Jane’s previous books, but after reading this one, I will definitely be added them and future ones, which included some more NA to my TBR list. I recommend this book as I think New Adult fans won’t be disappointed

I Loved the cover

[Farrah · Rating 5 out of 5]

My Rating: 4.5/5

Emotional, romantic, and heartbreaking, I Found You was a fantastic New Adult romance. It had some crazy drama, deep emotions, and a lovely story. I really enjoyed reading this brilliant book. Loved it!

Rachel was a survivor. She has had the worst luck in life, going from a terrible childhood home to becoming caught up with the wrong people to being a rich (married) guy's mistress. Finally, she had had enough and was contemplating ending it all. But, lucky for her, Jason found her. And, she was finally able to have stability and able to figure herself out. I really liked her. She was strong and dealt with everything life threw her way. I thought she was great.

Jason was so wonderful. He was so amazingly sweet, I can't even put it into words. He was completely devoted to Rachel and stood by her, even when it was very difficult to do. He would do anything for her, simply because he loved her. He was a complete gentleman and he didn't have a single mean bone in his body. He was so adorable and amazing and I adored him. He was just perfect.

The romance was lovely. Rachel and Jason were very sweet together. It was always clear how devoted they were to each other. They were a perfect match. Rachel needed someone to be her rock, and Jason needed someone to help him loosen up and they both found what they needed in each other. Not to mention the steaminess. These two had some seriously hot chemistry and it let to some very spicy moments.

My one problem with this book was that I didn't feel like everything was quite fleshed out. There were A LOT of obstacles in Rachel and Jason's relationship. There was A LOT of drama going on. There was so much going on at once that, even while all that helped keep me riveted to the story, none of it felt totally fleshed out. It wasn't a big problem, but it was noticeable, to the point that I knocked a bit off the rating. But, it was still a small enough problem that I really enjoyed the book.

The plot was good. I was hooked the entire way through. I loved how the emotions were portrayed in this book. Like in other Jane Lark books, the emotions were deep and palpable. I really enjoyed the story and I thought the ending was lovely.

I Found You was a wonderful New Adult read. I really enjoyed reading this book and I totally loved it. Lovers of NA romance, this is a book you'll want to check out.

*I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review

[Julie · Rating 5 out of 5]

New Adult isn’t a genre I would normally be interested in, but having heard great things about Jane Lark’s books, when the opportunity to review I Found You came along, I decide to give this book a try – and I am so glad I did! Dark, gritty and wholly mesmerizing, I Found You is a haunting and compelling read you will not easily forget!

Jason Macinlay should be having the time of his life. He’s left life in small town Oregon behind for the bright lights of New York, has got a loving fiancee and a job working for a magazine. He is meant to be living the dream in the greatest city in the world – so why can’t Jason shake off this crippling feeling of despondency and disappointment that took hold of him from the very first moment he set foot in the Big Apple? On yet another cold and dismal night, Jason decides to chase off the blues by going for a run on the Manhattan Bridge. Running in New York is the only thing which seems to make Jason happy in New York. With loud music pounding in his ear and adrenaline pumping in his veins, Jason’s night-time runs give him the opportunity to forget about the loneliness which has engulfed him since arriving in New York and think about where his life is going. However, when Jason glimpses a figure about to jump off the bridge, instinct takes over and forgetting all about his woes, rushes over to help the desperate woman about to end her life.

Rachel Shears is a deeply troubled young woman unable to go on living. Having endured constant pain and devastating hardship, Rachel thinks that the only option available to her is suicide. She thinks that by taking her own life, she can vanquish her demons and quell all the shameful and painful memories that have nearly destroyed her. Used to being used and abused and with nobody in the world she can trust, Rachel thinks that death is the inevitable choice- until Jason rescues her from the brink of despair and brings her back in the world of the living. Jason is nothing like the men she usually comes across – he’s kind, caring, considerate and does not want anything from her except to see her happy.

The bond that they had formed that fateful night on the Manhattan Bridge seems to strengthen with each passing day. Thrown together by fate and united by a passion that simply cannot be denied, Jason and Rachel soon realise that they’ve fallen madly in love with one another. But with so many obstacles standing in their way, does their love stand a chance of surviving? Or will fear and prejudice succeed in tearing them apart?

I’m in awe of Jane Lark’s extraordinary storytelling prowess! She captured my attention from the very first page and kept me engrossed and enthralled until the very last sentence. An emotional, intense and powerful story that will bring a tear to even the most jaded of eyes, this captivating love story plumbs the depths of the human heart and perfectly and deftly captures all the pain, suffering and triumphs of everlasting love.

Rachel and Jason are terrific characters readers will root for and emphatise with. Rachel is a heroine readers will feel sorry for initially as she has endured so many horrible things in her life yet they will admire her for her strength, her courage and the ability to turn things around. Jason is an honourable, kind-hearted and fantastic hero every reader will fall madly in love with!

A poignant, dramatic and spectacular read that’s absolutely impossible to put down, Jane Lark’s I Found You should be on everybody’s must-buy list!

[Jeannie Zelos · Rating 5 out of 5]

I Found You. Jane Lark
Review from Jeannie Zelos Book Reviews.
I've read and loved another of Jane's works so I thought I’d try this one, and I'm so glad I did. I love romance novels but sometimes they do get very “samey” and you feel all that's changed are the names. Not this book, its a romance, but so very, very different to the norm.
Jason is out running when he sees Rachel hovering in just jeans and t shirt over a bridge, looking like she's going to jump. He talks her down but then what? She's almost mute except to say no hospital or police. So he takes her home..... He's that kind of guy; decent, caring and though his flat is tiny as he's only recently moved he helps her as best he can. Once she's talking – though not about what happened- he says she can stay a while while she finds her feet. She gets a job and they enjoy the friendship. She's attracted by him, and in her recent past she'd have made a play but that’s all behind her now, she's not out to take someone else's man. Jason thinks she's stunning, and as time goes by he's more and more attracted to her – but he's a fiancée back home, and she's definitely not happy at Rachel staying with him! More and more he wonders if they are right for each other, it seems they've been together since school, and just fell into the relationship without really having much in common. Its not til he's talking so easily with Rachel that he realises how little he and Lindi talk, and how little attention she pays to what he wants. Its always her that chooses and decides everything.
Rachel – what an awful upbringing she's had, and I understood why she'd fallen into her lifestyle. Sometimes just going with the flow seems the easiest thing and she'd not had many lifestyle choices. Somehow she'd found the strength – with Jason's help- to change her life though, and she was determined to repay him by helping him feel more at home in the city, and more able to enjoy his time there. I loved the way she got him to sing with her, and to dance when he was adamant he couldn't do either. Then there's Jason – he's the man we all want to meet, the son we all want to have. Genuinely decent and kind, loving, considerate, hard-working, non judgemental – the man’s a saint – but a hot,attractive, sexy one!
The fiancée, Lindi – she's not happy about events, and to be honest I think most of us wouldn't be. Though Rachel is decent it's far more likely to have been someone that's out to steal or leech off Jason. I understood her and his parents fears. I think most of us would feel the same. She was a real piece of work though – very selfish and that came over so well. I love a good Bitch in a romance, and she was just perfect. The scenes back in Jason's home-town were really emotional, and I kept thinking “how much more can they take?” even while sympathising with the feelings of everyone involved.
I loved this book, perfect and unusual romance, great journey to the Hea, and a fantastic ending with twists and turns I didn't see coming. Its a book to make you laugh and cry, make you sad and happy – a fabulous read. A great length at 360 pages, it really lets reader get to know everyone and to enjoy plots that are fully developed and not rushed. Its £3.99 and one I’ll happily re read.
Stars: five – fabulous novel. .

NB: ARC supplied via Netgalley

[Kim · Rating 4 out of 5]

Find this review and more at kimberlyfaye reads .

I Found You was a beautiful, emotional book about fate, love and two people finding exactly what they needed in each other. I didn't know exactly what I was getting myself into when I began reading this book, but it exceeded my expectations. I thought it was going to be a fluffy feel-good romance. It was so much more than that. I Found You gave me angst and emotion, tough histories, family conflict and some steamy scenes. It was truly a roller coaster ride and, unlike a lot of books where I just *know* everything is going to work out perfectly in the end, I never felt like I knew which direction the story was headed. I was never positive these characters would get a happily ever after. Did they? Well, you'll just have to read and find out.

Rachel was a wreck. Understandably. Jason discovers her about to jump from the Manhattan Bridge one night. He talks her down and takes her home with him. He was a genuinely good guy and he wanted her to be somewhere safe. Somewhere she wasn't alone. They formed a quick bond, much to the chagrin of his long distance fiancée and his family. It's only a matter of time before their true feelings – and other secrets –are revealed. Here's where the tough part begins. Can they work out their issues, triumph over their adversaries and find love and happiness together?

It took me a little bit of time to connect with Rachel. It was hard to get a read on her. The reason behind this became clear as more information about her was revealed. About halfway through the book, I found myself completely invested in her and her health and happiness. Jason was easy to connect with. He's the kind of boyfriend any girl would want. They were imperfectly perfect together. They complemented each other well. They had very obvious chemistry and strong feelings for each other.

This was my first Jane Lark book. I thoroughly enjoyed her writing style and this book. The setting, the storytelling and the characters made this a great, relatively quick read. I look forward to reading more of her books in the future.

I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

[Ana · Rating 3 out of 5]

(Review thanks to free digital ARC from NetGalley)

One night, Jason is on his typical run down the Manhattan Bridge when he encounters a young woman, Rachel, who is attempting to jump off. He saves and takes her back to his apartment and proceeds to help her out so she can get back on her feet. As expected, they fall in love with each other and they have to deal not only with the family drama that comes with this relationship, but also the personal drama that both Jason and Rachel have.

Now, I am a person that does enjoy her romance every once in awhile. For me, it was very believable… at times. I just felt that at some points, the romance or the way they fall for each other just went by too fast. But then again, that’s just me and it is kind of inferred in the book that Jason and Rachel were attracted to each other the moment they met. So that’s the first thing that makes me kind of go meh with this book.

Another thing that I found a problem with the book was all the family drama that went along with everything. Well, all of the family drama came thanks to Jason’s family not accepting Rachel. I just thought it was something that was just way too overboard. But then again, I was never raised in a small town and close knit family like Jason’s so you also have that to factor into my opinion.

Other than that, I did find this book enjoyable. Although Jason and Rachel did get together too quickly, I did like the connection they had. They were able to understand each other and it was nice to see how comfortable they got with each other. It really did seem that they had always been meant for each other. So I guess that explains they getting together so fast I guess??

But yes, a good read. The writing is also very good and immerses you into the feelings both characters (especially since the book changes perspectives every once in awhile). I would recommend this book to someone that enjoys reading romance, to be more specific. I feel this book is more aimed to people who enjoy reading this kind of genre of books.

[John Boettcher · Rating 4 out of 5]

This romance was more than I expected it would be. With something so well written, you just expect these days to have something really, really bad happen towards the end of the book. Fortunately for all of you who haven't had the pleasure of reading "I Found You", I will just tease you with that a bit and encourage you to read it.

The bulk of the story takes place in New York City between to people in their early 20's who could not have come from different backgrounds. However, those differences are what makes the story work.

The other thing that makes the story work: The Nice Guy Syndrome. How many books have we all read that have Nice Guys Finishing Last? I mean, if you are even a little bit of a nice guy in a YA book, you probably have cancer or are fated to be run over by a car or shot by an arrow or something. In romance and YA novels, it PAYS to have a bit of bad in you if you are the guy, especially if that said novel is written by a female. For some reason, I have found that females tend to go for a little bit more adventure, rather than the other way around. Not critical, just saying.

This book turns that paradigm on it's head, and gives all of us good guys the hope and courage and faith in being good that we never had.

The book was moving in all the write ways and in all the right places. It had all the ferocity of a new relationship, with all the issues and questions that come along with it. The in depth look inside both character's minds is especially enlightening to see what each character thinks and feels about the same scenes and same circumstances in the book. The dual viewpoints really make the book work and come together in a way that many, written in the same genre, fail to accomplish.

Anxious to read a couple more works from Lark. Great job on this one, thoroughly enjoyed it!

Cheers!

[Alessandra · Rating 3 out of 5]

E-galley received through Netgalley for review

Jason Macinlay is a 22-year-old man who has recently moved to New York in order to fulfill his dreams of working as a journalist. One evening, while he's jogging on Manhattan Bridge, he sees a girl about his age who seems bent on jumping off the bridge. Jason convinces her to step off the bridge and, since she has nowhere to go, to come home with him. Her name is Rachel Shears and she has run away from an abusive relationship. Jason and Rachel are immediately attracted to each other; however, he has a fianceé in his hometown who isn't happy he's having another woman at his place. After a few days, Rachel starts working as a waitress, while Jason's parents and fiancée keep warning him that she's leaching off him.

I Found You is a new adult romance novel. For once, the hero is not a bad boy; he's the nicest person you could possibly imagine. He's sweet and kind, and doesn't hesitate letting Rachel stay at his place, since she's homeless. The heroine has a damaged past and has lived through all sorts of hardships. Jason's fiancée Lindy is the worst character in the book; she's exaggeratedly annoying and all wrong for Jason. He dumps her before starting things with Rachel, yet Lindy repeatedly accuses her of being a slut.

Things between Jason and Rachel do get very serious incredibly fast. I can't comment on that without giving away spoilers, but lets say Jason is very generous and forgiving. On the other hand, if you're ont he verge of committing to a person and they desperately try to tell you something, you should listen carefully, not interrupt them saying it doesn't matter!

[Amber Karas · Rating 5 out of 5]

I Found You
by Jane Lark

ARC Copy given by the author

If you are looking for a good book to read, I highly recommend this one! The main characters, Jason and Rachel (aka Rach), meet while Jason is on his daily run. He happens to catch Rachel about to jump off a bridge to her death. He takes her in and helps her, against his fiancee and parents advice. He later breaks off the engagement with his fiancee.

After being together for a few weeks, Rachel finds out she is pregnant with her ex’s baby. Jason accepts this with an open mind and decides to take the child for his own after he finds out the father doesn’t want anything to do with Rachel or the baby.

Jason takes Rachel back to his hometown in Oregon for the Christmas holiday so they can spend some time with his family. Rachel tries to make amends with Jason’s family, despite the fact that they think she was the reason Jason broke off his engagement.

I rate this book an A+ on the Nerd Alert Book Love Book Rating System. I loved how Ms. Lark used such descriptive language so that it felt like I was living in Jason and Rachel’s shoes. I have to admit, when Nerd Alert received the request to review this book, I didn’t really seem interested at first. The thing that caught my eye was the fact that the title had the same name as one of my favorite songs by my favorite band. To be honest, the song would make a great soundtrack to the book. Go read this book if you have the chance!

[Tina Larsen · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received a copy from NetGalley for an honest review ... This is a must read!!
Jason Macinlay is the BEST book boyfriend ever!!! I wasn't sure what to expect when I began reading this story and I LOVED IT! Jason was leading his life based off what everyone else wanted him to do. He had moved to NY to make it on his own. He had left his fiancee in Oregon while he was seeking to make it big in the magazine business. One night while he was running, he came across someone standing on the Manhattan Bridge looking like they were about to jump and he talked her down and took her home for the night. Rachel Shears has issues - but at the moment she has nothing of her own, no where to go, and not a soul to depend on - so she decides to take Jason up on his offer. This was a beautiful story of two people finding themselves and each other through some very difficult times. I loved how he stood by her through thick and thin and how he didn't just agree with her - he had a backbone and gave every decision thought and consideration. The story was well written and flowed so easily - I didn't want to put it down and couldn't wait to pick it back up the next morning to see what happened. I will definitely be reading more from Jane Lark.

[DJ Sakata · Rating 4 out of 5]

Favorite Quotes:

“Every sermon I’d endured as a kid raced through my head. Help the needy; put others first; don’t walk past that mugged guy in the street. I hadn’t gone to church in years, not since I’d hit my teens, but religion was stitched into my DNA. No way could I walk past a person in need.”

“She was a little too beautiful for comfort. She had untouchable celeb-magazine beauty, the sort you knew you’d never have, so you never wanted.”

My Review:

Jane Lark’s Starting Out series wove an intricate and nuanced patchwork through the lives of three different young couples, as they are starting out in their lives, loves, and careers. Each book contained interesting characters that were struggling yet doing the best they could in uncomfortable and unfortunate situations. I didn’t expect to care so deeply for all of them, but I found that even the more unlikable characters, had a reason to be that way. Ms. Lark’s storytelling is rather melancholy and heart rendering. Each tale involves an epic love that is emotive, moving, and poignant.

[Katarina · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fabulous book. Definitely not like any other romance, even though it centers around a love story. There's drama, there's heart break, there's the seedy and gritty side of life, and there's the wholesome, good side of life.

Jason and Rachel should never have found each other, yet they did and it's real and true. He is the good guy, from a good solid family. She has had a rough childhood and all the odds are stacked against her.

In the end good wins out, overcomes the odds and the obstacles, but this is done in a sensitive and real way. The author does not shy away from bringing up tough topics, but does it in such a great way.

[Lori · Rating 3 out of 5]

An unlikely encounter begins a love story between Jason and Rachel. He, a runner out for a late night run. She, an emotionally damaged woman about to jump off Manhattan Bridge. Jason rescues Rachel physically and emotionally, Rachel rescues Jason from an passionless life built on obligation.

The plot is interesting and the love scenes steamy but what makes the book good is its ability to draw in the reader with detail and emotion. Gritty in parts, sentimental in others, I Found You runs the gamut of emotions.

[Katherine · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thanks Netgalley for ARC
3.5 stars
This is one of those books were you like it and don't like it for me. There were some parts were there was too much drama going on like Too Much. Other parts I did like and enjoy and so e were slow for me. I felt sorry for the characters because of all the drama but happy at the end because they got their happy ending.

[Emma Star Crossed Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

This review was originally posted on Star Crossed Reviews I received this book for free for a Blog Tour in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.Thank you to Fiction Addiction Book Tours for letting me take part in the blog tour.

I really like Jason. He's genuinely a really nice guy. He's been brought up well. His parents taught him wrong from right. they tought him to be kind and to help those in need. I am really glad he decided to go to New York even though his family didn't want him to and it's not exactly how he pictured it.

I didn't really like Lindy. She wanted to make Jason into the image she had in her head. Everything in their relationship was about her. they were two people Jason was just an extension of her but not in a good way. She manipulated him and everyone else.

Rachel, oh Rachel. Where do I start. I felt so so sorry for her. She had such a crappy childhood. Her mum was pretty rubbish and since she left home she never really found a good place. She was always in with the wrong crowd.

I really loved that the book switched point of views. It was great to get into each of their heads and see what they were really thinking and feeling.

I don't want to ruin the story but there were some lovely romantic scenes, some hilarious and outrageous scenes, some really heartfelt moments and some really sad times too. This book will have you going through every emotion and I'm so glad I was along for the ride. I had little happy tears in my eyes at the end. It was perfect.

[Sultan * Baby Mama Smut-a-teer* · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was my first book from ms. Lark, and I really enjoyed it. I loved how sweet caring Jason was with Rachel. He knew she was broken and needing to handle her with care. He helped her when she had no one left and was a her lowest point.

I loved watching them grow and evolve together. Jason made Rachel want more out if life and to be a better person. Rachel made Jason see the fun In life again. They were both so young and carefree when together.

There was a good bit of drama and angst in this book. I didn't like how Jason's parents treated Rachel at first. It shocked me cause they raised such a beautiful and amazing son, but they didn't show Rachel any hospitality. Then there was the issue of Linsey, Jason's ex fiancé ( who is not a fan of Rachel either) who gets dumped when Jason realizes he doesn't love her anymore ( or ever he wonders). She was such a bitch through out most if the book, it was very hard to enjoy her.

I can't wait to see what the rest of the series brings. I will def be reading more from this author.

** ARC provided in exchange for an honest review**

[Gabby (What's Beyond Forks?) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Full Review at: What's Beyond Forks?

I Found You is the first New Adult novel written by Jane Lark. I've read two of her Historical Romances, and I absolutely love her writing and the stories she tells. This book was no exception. I enjoyed it too. I Found You was well put together. I enjoyed the characters and the story line, and as always I look forward to more books from Jane Lark! The ARC of I Found You by Jane Lark was provided to me by the author for review. The opinions are my own.

[Angela · Rating 4 out of 5]

An emotional story that covered a sensitive issue brilliant loved it!

I received a free copy from netgallery in exchange for a honest review.

[Margaret Madden · Rating 4 out of 5]

Review to follow

[Casey · Rating 2 out of 5]

Review originally posted at Ramblings From This Chick

I Found You is the first book I have read by Jane Lark. This one really drew me in with the cover and the blurb. I ended up having mixed feelings about this book. There were some things that I really liked, but I had some trouble with quite a few things in this one. I thought that this book started off really well and I was really interested right off. But as the book went on things sort of fell apart for me.

One cold winter night while Jason is running, he comes across a woman on the Manhattan Bridge. Rachel is about ready to jump, but Jason ends up convincing her not to jump and instead to get down. With nowhere to go, Jason offers to let her stay at his place while she gets back on her feet. Rachel eventually agrees and ends up staying at his place. Jason is determined to help her get past whatever she is running from. Jason has a fiance back in Oregon, but things between them aren't the same as they used to be. Both his fiance and his parents are skeptical of Rachel and her intentions, but they don't know Rachel like Jason does. As the two of them spend more time together they grow close and both feel a connection between them unlike anything they have experienced before. Soon they are unable to fight the growing feelings between them, and Jason decides he needs to end things with his fiance back home. With Jason just ending his relationship and Rachel still suffering from things from her past, the two of them have a lot of obstacles standing in their way. But with a connection as strong as theirs, they are determined to figure out a way to make things work.

I liked Jason. He was sweet and caring, protective and kind. I liked what a good guy he was and how he was willing to help a total stranger. He went out of his way to help Rachel out and didn't have any ulterior motives. I also loved how he stood up for her against everyone that he knew because he believed in her and saw the good in her. I did think that he should have ended things with the fiance long before he did, especially considering that his feelings for her had already started to change before Rachel. It didn't really make sense that he had stayed with her for so long. Rachel was strong and honest, and I was glad to see that she was exactly who she appeared to be. She never tried to pull one over on anybody and always told the truth about everything, including her less than perfect past. It was really refreshing to see such a young character really be open about everything like she was. I also really liked how supportive she was of Jason all along. She was willing to stand up to his family for him while taking every bad thing they had to say about her just because she cared about Jason and wanted him to have a good relationship with his family regardless of their feelings for her. I really liked that Jason and Rachel fit so well together, and they really seemed to be such a strong couple. They seemed to fit together perfectly and were exactly what the other needed. I also thought they had really good chemistry together.

I did think that the relationship between Jason and Rachel was extremely rushed. These two and their relationship progressed so quickly that even though they seemed to fit, seemed to not be as real or believable to me. I had hoped to see them slow down a bit and really let their relationship develop, but things just seemed to perpetually be on fast forward for these two. I don't agree with how Jason's parents treated Rachel, but honestly I didn't blame them for their worries and fears when it came to her and Jason's relationship. If I was a parent in their shoes I would think that my kid had lost their mind and I would have a hard time not questioning motives for the way things happened. I also really didn't like Declan. I thought that his character was a straight up jerk and I honestly couldn't figure out how not only was he super successful but that he also seemed to have no problems getting and keeping girls. His character just didn't really work for me. I also really didn't understand something that happened with him and Rachel at the end of the book. Frankly I was wondering what the hell she was thinking and her actions made zero sense to me. One of the things that I did like is that we got both Jason and Rachel's POVs in this book. While I really enjoyed getting their thoughts, the transitions between POVs could have used a bit of work in my opinion. The switch between POVs was often times unclear and gave little to no notice before switching. It was hard to go from one paragraph in one's POV and then the next it would just be in the other's POV. I found it often times to be confusing and disorienting. Overall, I think that this book had a lot of potential and I did like the characters. For me though, this one just fell flat and wasn't able to deliver a real and believable story in such a rushed amount of time. I think that this one will be one that a lot of NA readers will enjoy and be able to get into, it just wasn't for me.

**Review Copy provided by Xpresso Book Tours**

[Elke DP · Rating 1 out of 5]

Ik snap niks van de likes. Voor mij was dit saai, vlak, inspiratieloos, soapy, stijlloos en smaakloos. En mijn leesplezier is ff serieus vergald.

[Hannah · Rating 4 out of 5]

The description for this book really stood out to me as something really special and pulled me towards this book. I didn’t really know exactly what to expect, but somehow knew that this book was one of those hidden gems that you come to by chance and really sweep you off your feet. And I really wasn’t disappointed.This is one of those romance stories were the guy isn’t a good guy wrapped up in a tough, tattooed, slightly damaged package that we are used to in these angst filled romances. Jason is a good guy, plain and simple (but still very hot!). So when running across the Manhattan bridge one night and coming across Rachel, freezing cold and ready to end her life, it doesn’t take him long to offer his help.

“I didn’t know Rachel, but I did know she’d got herself in a mess, somehow, and she needed help”

Rachel is a mystery. When Jason finds her on the bridge, we know nothing of her situation but I couldn’t help but like her. She has nothing in her life worth living for and a stranger offers to take her home. You can’t help but wonder if she agrees because she really doesn’t care about her life or safety. But it’s not, she sees him for who he really is, and something about him makes her trust him.

“There was something about him that made me feel safer than I’d felt in an entire year, or maybe longer”

Jason really cares for her, right from the beginning. He doesn’t know anything about her, but he knows enough to know that he wants to help her. Trusting his own gut feelings over the dis-trusting opinions of his fiancée and family back home he welcomes Rachel to become a part of his life and she in turn allows herself to be.

Rachel and Jason have a great connection, each giving the other what they need. Jason giving Rachel stability and an unconditional love she has never before felt. Rachel helping Jason to enjoy life and not being as serious as he is used to being. They come from different worlds, have different backgrounds but effortlessly move into friends and then into relationship that we have craved since their first meeting.

“I wanted to take every hurt from her. The emotion was a living being in my chest, it roared and breathed fire and grew hungry with need.”

Their feelings are intense but feel very real and the chemistry between them leads to some very steamy scenes. But the main thing between the two of them was their devotion to the other, their love really was beautiful and it wasn’t all about big romantic gestures, it was the little things they did for each other which really made me swoon. They’re differences really made them a perfect match.

“We were probably the most unlikely couple; if I could call us that. Our meeting had been accidental, and we were poles apart. But I wanted to see if could work, if I could succeed in like with a nice guy"

It would be wrong not to mention Lindy, Jason’s fiancé at this point. I’m not going to tell you much, because I don’t want to ruin the story for you. But I will say that I didn’t like her from the beginning. I mean, yes ok, she has a right to be slightly freaked out that her fiancé brought home a girl who was about to kill herself, but if she really loved him and trusted him then she would accept it. In fact, if she really loved him then she would be in New York with him and not sulking back at home with his parents waiting for him to get over his ‘New York Dream’ and come home. She just seemed so controlling, which we are given clues to even in the first chapter: Jason has specific times when he has to call her evey day, and if he is late then he doesn’t get away with it. It becomes very obvious throughout the story that Rachel is Lindy’s exact opposite, and in my opinion exactly what Jason needs to be able to live and enjoy his life.

This story is written from both Rachel & Jason’s POV and it was written perfectly that it switched between the two at the exact right moments which allowed us to see both POV at some of the most intense moments. I haven’t read a book with this type of storyline before and I really loved the whole idea behind it and the way it was written.

"Tomorrow is for regrets. Tonight is for being together."

This is Jane Lark’s first attempt at New Adult and I must say she has done a fantastic job. I thoroughly enjoyed the whole book and there were some nice, unexpected twists in there which kept it flowing well. At times I felt like we could have done with some extra information, but as a whole it didn’t damage the story. Lark writes in an engaging way, giving no clues to how she is going to finish the book and you don’t know which of the few potential endings you should be expecting.

I definitely see myself reading more Jane Lark books in the future, really looking forward to what’s to come!

For more of my reviews check out my blog Broc's Bookcase

[Blue · Rating 3 out of 5]

When I first heard about this book, I was instantly intrigued. The synopsis sounds so interesting. Then I read the excerpt and I was even more curious about the book. I was certain that it would be one that I would really enjoy and could happily add to my favourites shelf. Unfortunately, this is not what happened. While I still enjoyed this book, it wasn’t exactly the book I was hoping it to be and couldn’t help but feel a little disappointed with it. However, I’m still glad I read the book and would still recommend it to others. I definitely think that anyone that likes books with a strong, kind, male lead will love this books. It just didn’t give me the spark that I’d wanted when reading it. But, fortunately, it was still good enough for me to get to the end of the book.

Being a romance book, there was a faily generic plot to this book where two characters who shouldn’t have worked together, really fitted together well. I did like that part of this book and I loved seeing the way that Jason looked at and felt about Rachel. I enjoyed the journey that the two of them took together, and I certainly felt many emotions pouring out of me as I read. (I really wanted to punch a few other characters!). There were, however, a few unrealistic moments in the book that really ground my teeth and just moments that I really struggled to read and enjoy. At times it felt like some of the dialogue was a little forced and it really ruined some of the enjoyment of this book for me.

I think the main protagonists in this book were really well written and had a lot of depth and personality. I only wish that, that same depth could have shone through the secondary characters as well but I often found that where other characters’ came in, it just fell flat. Everything felt forced and unnatural, as though they were merely there as plot points and that ruined some of the enjoyment for me. Fortunately, there was enough flare and personality in both Jason and Rachel to counter-act this and not ruin the book completely. Jason is such a kind, protective, caring gentlemen and I love him from the first moment we meet him. He’s the kind of guy to stop everything he’s doing to help someone he doesn’t know and I think it was so great. I hated that other people couldn’t see his greatness. I also think Rachel was a really great character. She had a stunning personality and a lot of depth and I love what the author has done with this character. I think she is portrayed really well, and knew exactly what was “up” with her from the second day we see her. I admire the author for adding this to the book.

I think my biggest problem with this book is the style that it is written in. Normallly I adore dual POV narratives but I don’t think it really worked with this book, or ir just wasn’t used in the best way in this book. There seemed to be no rhyme or reason over when we heard from Jason and then heard from Rachel and there were a few times when I really would have liked to have jumped to the other person and their thoughts but never got that which made me feel a little irritated by it. The other problem I found was that a few parts of the story were more “tell don’t show” and so I didn’t get to feel the same connection to the characters. Lastly, I found a lot of the inner dialogues to be incredibly repetitive. I can see how realistic this is, naturally but for me it meant that I started losing interest in the narrative fairly quickly if I was being told something for the third or fourth time in the space of ten pages. Fortunately, the narrative was also addictive and kept me wanting to turn the page and find out what else would happen to our main protagonists meaning that essentially, I was able to look past these few issues to look at the book as a whole. I feel these are more personal issues as well, and can see how others would likely really enjoy this book.

While this book didn’t turn out to be the book I had hoped it to be, it was still one that I enjoyed reading and one that I can see many people reading to escape the glum of their lives, which is always what we want from books anyway. I loved Rachel and how her character and her character flaws were treated in this book and would recommend the book on this alone as it is a very sensitive subject and I feel like the author has done a great job of portraying this. I also think Jason was a strong enough character to really bring the book alive. So, if you’re looking for a good book that will take you away from your life for a little bit, a romance with a scattering of action and a whole pile of depth, then I would definitely recommend this book. I know it may not turn out to be your favourite book, but I think you may just enjoy the journey it takes you on anyway. I certainly did.

[Vanya D. · Rating 2 out of 5]

NOTE: I received this ARC via Netgalley in exchange for my honest review.

I had hopes for I Found You, seeing who the publisher is. Unfortunately, sometimes the big houses don't do their job well. I'm saying this because there was absolutely nothing special about this story. The author tried to work in between the drama some valuable message, but it didn't quite work out. Not to mention that there was too much 'tell' in places, and there was a repetitiveness that had me feeling disappointed.

Writing style:
It needs working on. And editing - lots and lots of editing. There were phrases, sentences and scenes that were described more than once. The repetitiveness went on and on. It was everywhere, on every single page. I'm sure you think I'm kidding, or exaggerating, but I'm honestly doing nothing of the sort. I should've kept a notebook by me while reading, so I can count the number of times each phrase was repeated, so I could note it for you. I do have some examples though.
1) The first half of the book repeated the scene of the 'failed suicide' every other chapter, and I won't even dare guess how many times the author mentioned that Rachel was found by Jason on a bridge, while she was trying to jump over. I believe that seeing the scene once and having it mentioned again ONCE would've been enough. But no.
2)The second half of the book was the same, except here repeating scene revolved around how clingy and needy Rachel was. The phrase that could've been edited out around the 3rd time it was mentioned went something like 'God I love Jason. He's so nice.' or the alternative 'God I love Rachel. She's so hot.'

Story line:
To be honest, despite everything else, I sort of liked the story line. At least it had potential to be explored. It should've been given a chance to make a spectacular story. Instead, the writing turned it mediocre at best.
Anyway, I can't stress enough that neither the writing nor the characters had any say in my finishing this book. It was the story that kept me going, pushing through and not leaving it on my DNF shelf.

Themes:
- Suicide is never the way to solve your problems.
- Parental neglect can lead to horrible consequences.
- Sometimes, a good person would emerge and help the one in need.

Characters:
Jason started out as a realistic character. The first chapters were really good for him, except when he was using language that didn't really fit him. I'm not sure why the author wanted to make him cuss - he was a well mannered, nice guy and every time a foul word came out of his mouth, I not only winced, it made me apprehensive. It appeared that sometimes the author did not really know Jason at all.
Like I said, Jason was a nice guy. He was understanding (sometimes unbelievably so), forgiving (although that's quite unexplainable), never getting angry (even when he should), always patient. This sounds, at least to my ears, as the best description of the PERFECT guy. Well, all his nicety and such made his character seem all the more unrealistic. He had no flaws - or the tiny ones we could see were almost nonexistent.

I firmly believe that Rachel's character was the more realistic of the two. She behaved like the girl with the mental illness that she was. Everything she did was caused by ups and downs in hormone levels, which I guess I understand. What I didn't like was how much 'tell' there was going on in her thoughts. Instead of having the reader fell what Rachel felt, the author chose to tell us instead and that bothered me a lot.

Lindy, Jason's girlfriend at the time was a hypocrite that I didn't really like from the very first sentence she spoke. Sure, it wouldn't be easy to be in her shoes if she was indeed an honorable girl. But she was not, so I didn't really care about her feelings.

Jason's parents were just so weird. first, they wouldn't give Rachel a second glance, let alone a chance. And they were supposed to be small-town God fearing people... Gah! No good Samaritans there.
Anyway, when they turned the coin, it was so incredibly sudden, I would've fallen off my chair, had I been sitting on one. It was odd, completely set up and I felt cheated.

In conclusion:
In all honesty, I cannot recommend this book in it's current state. If it goes through major editions, perhaps something better will become of it. Right now though.. I'm sad to say that its potential was wasted.

[Jody · Rating 4 out of 5]

As a fan of the New Adult genre I'm always looking for stories that are emotionally engaging and that stick with me long after the final page is turned. With I Found You I got exactly that and more as this story pulled at my heartstrings and put me through the emotional wringer as I was rooting for a HEA for these two very deserving characters. After their unconventional meeting these friends to lovers realize that their differences are what make them whole and that being together is worth the fight in this story that leaves you drained but satisfied in the end.

Rachel's at her lowest point as this story starts, tired of being used with no hope and no one to count on. From an uncaring mother to the men who only want her for her body she feels lost and alone until a stranger shows her more care in a few moments than others have her whole life. This stranger offers her a chance at a different life, a chance to have a future of her own making, and instead of jumping to her death she jumps to a new life. Rachel is an admirable heroine, likable, and strong-willed. Even after everything that's happened to her she still chose life. With so many people using her in the past she could've used her savior too, but her kindheartedness has her repaying him by being his friend and showing him the wonders of the big city he's now living in. Their burgeoning romance evolves slowly, with the time taken to get to know each other through the story's dual POVs. She's a delightful character who earns her HEA after an emotionally draining journey full of twists and turns.

Jason has recently moved to New York to forge his own path, much to his family and fiancée's chagrin. He feels unsettled though and a bit lost himself in his isolation from all he's known before but knows where he needs to be to have the career he wants. Running has become a calming influence for him and on one fateful night completely changes his life forever as he saves a woman as lost as him. Jason is the epitome of heroic! He's caring, supportive, and so kindhearted as to make me want him to be real! He gives Rachel a place to stay and hope without asking for anything in return. Though his family and fiancée think he's stupid and gullible for helping Rachel, he can't help but be drawn to her. She shows him how to really live and embrace the excitement and energy of the big city. She gets him to do things he never thought he'd do before, like signing and dancing, and embracing life wholeheartedly. In essence, she saved him just as he was saving her. It's this give and take that makes their relationship so satisfying and makes for a truly HEA.

The journey to HEA doesn't go smoothly though as the nastiness and prejudice of his family and fiancée loom large over them, casting doubts through their melodramatic actions. Lindy is especially unlikable in how bitter she is over Jason's decision to move to New York and his relationship with Rachel. She was clearly not the woman for him as she never truly listened to him and always got her way despite what he wanted. Her anger over the situation was more a reflection on being set aside for someone she saw as inferior which made her look petty. There were other roadblocks along the way, some that surprised me and some I expected and some that were a bit soap opera-ish, that put Jason and Rachel's relationship in doubt but were quickly dealt with which lessened some of the emotional impact. The best part of this story was the burgeoning romance between these two likable characters and I would've been content just having them deal with one another, getting to know them and their inner thoughts through the alternating POVs. All the other stuff, particularly the nastiness of his family's small town prejudices, created drama but felt trite and invasive. Their romance was ultimately sweet yet scorching but always compelling. From start to finish I was fully invested in their outcomes, both separately and together, and commend Ms. Lark on crafting such a truly deserving couple and look forward to reading more from this talented author.

[Wendy · Rating 3 out of 5]

Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book to read and review.

First of all I have to say I love the cover. It really embodies Rachel, mysterious and beautiful.

So here we have the set up to a great damsel in distress tale. The mysterious big city girl, Rachel with lifeless eyes who gives an impression of wanting to give up. The compassionate small town boy, Jason who takes a risk and gives her a chance to start new. At first Jason is truly a gentleman. Offering to get Rachel what she needs with no questions asked and no expectations in return. Because this is dual POV we do get inside Rachel's head to see how she feels about that arrangement (more on that later). As expected, the two grow closer and before long things start to heat up. Everything is perfect until his family and friends and her past interfere. Will Rachel give up her previous ways and become the woman Jason deserves? Will Jason give up his future to be with Rachel? Because this is a spoiler free review I will not say, you will have to find out yourself.

Overall this was a pretty good book. I liked the good boy, bad girl roles. Usually the roles are reversed so this was a nice change without making either character unlikable. The plot was interesting. I was intrigued with the story and wanted to learn about both characters and why they're in the situations they were in.

With that said there were several disappointing parts of the book. First, the way Jason handled his ex in the beginning and later in the book. He lost several good guy points for that. Second, the pace in which their story happened was way too fast. We are talking about a couple in their early 20's and like many New Adult Romances, they easily make life changing decisions with solid conviction. Plus there are some aspects of the way Rachel's character changed that I didn't like. At the beginning, Rachel is a puzzle. You get small tidbits of her recent lifestyle and her wild and checkered past. Without her POV it would be really hard to trust her myself. As the story progresses we learn more and more of the reasoning or rather excuse for her questionable past actions. While I understand why the author would save that fact as a big reveal later in the book, I couldn't help but feel that the author was throwing it in as she went along rather than plan it from the beginning. Regardless, I feel that aspect of Rachel changed her dramatically in the story. The Author could have planned it all along and if so I think she did it in a very disjointed way.

And finally, the writing. So we have characters from different parts of the U.S.A. living in New York and yet they are all using common British terms. At first I was more amused than anything and tried to outline each out of place term used. After a while I gave up and tried to ignore it as hard as that was. Authors, if you plan to write a story in a foreign country using characters that are native to that country than please try to get the lingo right. I'm not sure what Ms. Lark's reason was for setting this story in America but by doing so she made herself look less professional. This story could have easily taken place in the U.K. Otherwise there were a few oddly written sentences that were either unusual for my American mind or just improper editing. That part wasn't a issue with me but it could be to those more particular.

Overall Rating-3 stars
Love Story-Over the top by the end
Steaminess-Pretty steamy for NA

[Sorcha O'Dowd · Rating 5 out of 5]

A superb, heartwarming read. 5 Stars! Full review to follow.

Sometimes it takes a while to put together your thoughts enough to write a book review. This is by no means a bad thing, as is proved by Jane Lark’s beautiful story ‘I Found You.’ I was gobsmacked, by its intensity, by its beautiful characters, and the extraordinary, and heart-warming message that underlined the whole story, that if you love someone enough, you will do anything to keep them.
Rachel and Jason’s story was one that will stay with me for years to come. I loved starting the story reading from Jason’s point of view, and I really connected with the way that his thought processes and characterisations were so very male. It’s a difficult task for female authors to write realistic thoughts and actions of male characters, and Jane Lark did it with real skill. The way in which she wrote Jason and Rachel’s characters was in such a brutally honest way, that I could feel the emotion seeping from the pages. I liked that Rachel and Jason were everything to each other, and made no apologies or excuses for the way that they were together. I especially loved the vulnerability that Rachel allows herself to show as her relationship with Jason becomes closer. It was one of the most beautiful progressions of character-development I have ever read, and I felt so close to her as a person, and held out hope that everything would end well for her.
The story development in ‘I Found You’ was absolutely beautiful to witness. I really liked how Rachel and Jason became very close friends first, before acting out on their attraction to each other. I admired Rachel for the restraint she showed before their friendship became romantic, and laughed at her inner thoughts when she had to remind herself that Jason had a girlfriend, Lindsay.
I really liked how Lindsay’s character played out. I felt weary of her from the start, particularly due to her cynical reaction to Rachel when Jason tells her that he took Rachel home to keep her from jumping to her death. I found her worry understandable, but felt insulted on Rachel’s behalf, and on the behalf of the many people out there contemplating ending their life, when she insists that Rachel was taking advantage of his kindness. As her story unfolds, she became the character I loved to hate, and I was so happy to see her become a victim of her own selfishness, her efforts to hurt Jason eventually turning around to show she herself was in the wrong.
To see kind people like Jason, who would give up so much to help someone who was at such a low point in their life, was heart-warming and had me tearing up a little. His faith in Rachel, and how he refused to give up on the girl who needed him, despite his girlfriend and family insisting he did, made me feel hope for humanity. His protective nature over Rachel when they visit his family, and his assurance to her that he will not give her up no matter what his parents think, was beautiful to witness, and I prayed that they could fight through these battles and come out stronger as a couple.
The story that unfolds is a beautiful one, and every word was written to perfection. I was in the edge of my seat as Rachel’s past comes back to haunt her, and Jason struggles with the responsibility of becoming an adult. It is a relationship that mesmerised me with its beauty and I’m sure will touch the hearts of many readers out there.
5 Stars and a definite recommended read.

[Echo · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was provided a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.*

I Found You is the story of Jason and Rachel. Jason's a small town boy from Oregon, living in New York. Rachel's a damaged girl who's never left the city. She's had a rough life, he hasn't. And neither really understand where the other comes from.

Their story takes us thought their first meeting, when Jason saves Rachel's life, into the friendship that forms between them. They face obstacles, like Jason's family, and fiancee, and more importantly, Rachel's secrets.

I really enjoyed the, I guess you could say, unconventional twist of having a "bad" girl from the wrong side of town and the good boy who's sweet and kind. Jason is caring and compassionate, without being mushy. Rachel is troubled, secretive, and wants so badly to have a better life, even though she doesn't believe she deserves it.

Jason and Rachel were awesome characters. They had a great connection, and it was easy to sympathize with them both. Throughout the story, you just felt horrible for Jason being in the position he was in between Rachel and his family and life back home in Oregon. His mom, dad and fiancee all putting him down and making him feel guilty for his choice to follow his dreams and aspirations. The only person who really did believe in him was Rachel.

I like how Jane kept from jumping into love-at-first-sight with them. They developed from strangers, to Jason just wanting to protect Rachel and help her get back on her feet, to friends, and then more. Their relationship actually developed. Jason and Rachel were perfect for each other, and they balanced each other's personalities wonderfully.

Throughout the book, I went back and forth between wanting to strangle Jason's parents and wanting to shake their hands for watching out for him. It was a tough call, and I'm still not sure where I stand on them.

Even after a horrible meeting, and nasty exchanges with Jason's family, Rachel still respects them because no matter how they treat her, she loves the fact that they love him enough to want things for him and to try and protect him. It really helps show the kind of life Rachel grew up with. Her mother was an alcoholic and went from man to man with no regards to how they treated Rachel.

The only problem I have was some of the scenes felt like they could have been more. When Jason goes into his boss's office. The last scene with Declan and his friends. They could have been so much more, but they were just cut too short.

Another thing, and this isn't a problem, just something I noticed... Before even reading her bio, I could have told you Jane Lark was from the UK. I probably couldn't have gotten specific, but I knew. There is definitely an English lilt to the language in the book. At one point, I think Jason and Rachel were in a bar and Jason paid the tab with a note he pulled from his wallet. He was always telling her she was mad. I had to stop once and remember that Jason was from Oregon. There were a few other references that I can't remember off the top of my head, as well. Like I said, it wasn't anything bad, by any means, just something I noticed.

I really enjoyed I Found You. I was intrigued throughout the whole book, and anxious to see how things ended.

[Leah · Rating 3 out of 5]

When I saw I Found You on Netgalley, I thought it looked fascinating. I love New Adult titles, and this one sounded very intriguing. I wanted to know why Rachel was running from life, why Jason was running toward it so I was quite excited to open up the novel on my Kindle. It started really well, and I had no idea where abouts the novel was going, but mostly I found myself a bit disappointed with the novel, it wasn't what I had expected at all.

I Found You started amazing - I loved that Jason was such a kind, caring character, that he would take in someone who was hanging off a bridge, without knowing her at all. The synopsis didn't really give much away about what sort of direction the novel would take after Rachel and Jason met, but it definitely didn't go in the way I wanted it to. I honestly do not know how I wanted it to go - perhaps, a bit more of a tough read - at the end of the day, if you find somebody hanging off a bridge, then there needs to be some questions asked, obviously, but Jason was quite happy for Rachel to keep to herself and only divulge info when she wanted to. Rachel has a major issue, and I sort of wanted that to be explored more. It came up really late in the day, and it seemed to be less important than anything else. Instead, all I got from the novel was a love story. A rather sickly-sweet love story, where Jason and Rachel faced challenges that would usually break a couple up, but skated through them as if they were nothing...

Don't get me wrong, it was a very well written novel, and I did keep reading, but it sort of got to the point where I was a little bit bored. Rachel and Jason didn't face anything that couldn't be fixed by how much they loved each other. Their love story was just way too easy. Despite a girlfriend, an ex-boyfriend, an illness, the fact Jason found Rachel on a bridge about to end her life, it was just too easy. To go through so many obstacles, you expect consequences, but Rachel never had to face any of her actions and nor did Jason. It seemed like Jane Lark only threw the obstacles in the way, for the sake of throwing obstacles in the way. The promise of the first few pages of the novel just weren't seen through in the latter stages, which was such a shame. I did sorta like that Rachel and Jason just clicked from the off, but on the other hand, this is New York! Would that really happen? I do not know the answer to that question!

I Found You wasn't my favourite New Adult novel, and I did have issues with the novel, but overall it was an OK read. There are many people who will really enjoy the novel, but I just expected more. Jane Lark is a talented writer, and I really enjoyed the beginning bits of the novel, but I just found myself rather bored as the novel wore on and as Rachel and Jason just seemed to skate through everything unscathed. I did like the bits set in Jason's home town, they were quite awkward as Rachel tried to win them round, and I found Jason's relatives were quite cruel to her, but I liked how she persevered, despite their negativity. Overall, I liked Rachel and Jason's relationship, and I liked the beginning of the novel, the overall product just wasn't what I expected and that was a bit disappointing.