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Because of You
For 21-year-old Hunter Davis, being a lifeguard on one of South Carolina's most popular beaches has its benefits. With his chiseled body, panty-dropping good looks, and penetrating blue eyes, he's every woman's dream and every father's nightmare. So why would he want to commit to one woman? Love is not in his vocabulary. For 18-year-old Riley Hamilton, it's just the opposite. Her father left when she was six years old, and her mother has been angry and bitter ever since. Riley finds solace in the thought that one day she will be worthy of someone's love. So when her father calls-out of the blue-asking her to move to South Carolina with a free ride to USC, how can she refuse? When Hunter and Riley are suddenly thrown together, Hunter wonders if the demons from his past will come back to haunt him-or is the woman with the face of an angel the only one who can save him? Because of You is a sensuous and powerful debut novel-a story of love, loss, and the tragedy of holding on to family secrets.
284 pages, Paperback
First published December 23, 2013
13 people are currently reading
413 people want to read
About the author
Connie Lafortune
14 books531 followers Connie Lafortune is a rebel, coffee addict and incurable romantic. She pens steamy contemporary romance about enemies-to-lovers, second chances, and broken heroes with plenty of angst. If she's not in her office writing her next novel, you can bet she's curled up in a comfy chair with her nose buried in a book. On the hunt for her next book boyfriend!
Upcoming Release:
Beneath the Bloodline
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Upcoming Release:
Beneath the Bloodline
Find me here:
Newsletter sign up ~ https://connielafortune.com/become-a-...
Reader Group ~ https://www.facebook.com/groups/48518...
Instagram ~ https://www.instagram.com/connielafor...
TikTok ~ https://www.tiktok.com/@connielafortu...
Website ~ https://connielafortune.com/
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
April 3, 2014
REVIEW BY ADIANA RAY
I am a sucker for romance and that is what made me choose to read ‘Because of You’ by Connie LaFortune. It started off as a traditional coming of age romance as we are introduced to the beach boy hunk Hunter, whom you can fairly drool over and fresh faced innocent Riley, who is infectious in her excitement of all the new things in her life. For both it is love at first sight and they just cannot get enough of each other.
At the very outset, it is established that both of them have personal baggage that they need to deal with from their past: the parent-child relationship for Riley and some much darker issues for Hunter. The whole plot revolves around how their love blossoms and how they support each other in coming to terms with these issues.
The character of Hunter is well rounded and the author brings out different facets of his character very aptly, however in the case of Riley even though it starts off very well, sometimes I felt there was an excessive emphasis on her insecurities. Then again, that is just my opinion and it could well be exactly what the plot demanded. A tiny tidbit thrown in which was repeatedly stressed on, was her inability to text. I found that implausible and didn’t see the necessity of it either. On the whole though, Riley was a clearly defined character as well, albeit with a few rough edges. Most of the secondary characters came across effectively too. I am glad she kept all these down to just a few and the various settings to the bare minimum. I hate reading books, where I have to continuously refer back to find out who and what they are talking about.
I liked the tenderness that the author ascribes to Hunter in his relationship with Riley. As for Riley; she does come across as an absolute innocent and very, very vulnerable. I liked the fact that an effort was made to dwell on more complex relationship issues as well, however I do wish Connie LaFortune would have dwelled on that part a bit more and not laid so much emphasis on the purely physical aspects, which got a tad repetitive after a while. When she described the angst experienced by Riley and the guilt of Hunter there was just so much more depth in the story.
Not to be a spoiler but the end came with a twist which I never, ever expected. All in all a light read for a day at the beach.
I am a sucker for romance and that is what made me choose to read ‘Because of You’ by Connie LaFortune. It started off as a traditional coming of age romance as we are introduced to the beach boy hunk Hunter, whom you can fairly drool over and fresh faced innocent Riley, who is infectious in her excitement of all the new things in her life. For both it is love at first sight and they just cannot get enough of each other.
At the very outset, it is established that both of them have personal baggage that they need to deal with from their past: the parent-child relationship for Riley and some much darker issues for Hunter. The whole plot revolves around how their love blossoms and how they support each other in coming to terms with these issues.
The character of Hunter is well rounded and the author brings out different facets of his character very aptly, however in the case of Riley even though it starts off very well, sometimes I felt there was an excessive emphasis on her insecurities. Then again, that is just my opinion and it could well be exactly what the plot demanded. A tiny tidbit thrown in which was repeatedly stressed on, was her inability to text. I found that implausible and didn’t see the necessity of it either. On the whole though, Riley was a clearly defined character as well, albeit with a few rough edges. Most of the secondary characters came across effectively too. I am glad she kept all these down to just a few and the various settings to the bare minimum. I hate reading books, where I have to continuously refer back to find out who and what they are talking about.
I liked the tenderness that the author ascribes to Hunter in his relationship with Riley. As for Riley; she does come across as an absolute innocent and very, very vulnerable. I liked the fact that an effort was made to dwell on more complex relationship issues as well, however I do wish Connie LaFortune would have dwelled on that part a bit more and not laid so much emphasis on the purely physical aspects, which got a tad repetitive after a while. When she described the angst experienced by Riley and the guilt of Hunter there was just so much more depth in the story.
Not to be a spoiler but the end came with a twist which I never, ever expected. All in all a light read for a day at the beach.
December 8, 2017
I loved this book. This is my second book by the author and I can say that Connie knows how to bring emotion, passion, intrigue altogether. Full of emotions, this passionate love story kept me glued to my ereader the entire Sunday. Now, I have one more author added to my list of favourite authors and indeed she is Connie Lafortune.
Detailed review will follow shortly.
Here's the detailed review:
The plot is old but the story treatment is new and appealing. The plot is tightly woven and there are no loose ends where the reader feels bored. It kept my attention intact from the beginning till end. It has some cleverly done twists at the end of the book and the surprize ending just acts like an icing on the top of melt-in-the-mouth cheesecake
The love scenes are well written and don’t seem like an erotica. They are sensual yet graceful, but I loved to read more about the emotional gestures and playful banter Riley and Hunter shared with each other. Their care, emotions, and love all expressed vividly and the entire read was no less than watching an emotional and passionate romantic movie.
The characterization was strong. Characters are well-developed and realistic. It’s not easy to describe character in all the three dimensions, but Connie has done this with elan.
The plot has depth. It is well crafted with no room for improvement. The story is well structured. It slows down and picks up pace as and when required compelling reader not to stop reading.
The lead characters are strong and well developed. There’s an emotional connection between them, and the best thing is that you can feel strongly about both Riley and Hunter.
However, there's room for improvement in the cover of the book.
Apart from cover, I don't think there's anything that can stop me from rating this book 5 stars. This book doesn’t deserve anything less than that.
Detailed review will follow shortly.
Here's the detailed review:
The plot is old but the story treatment is new and appealing. The plot is tightly woven and there are no loose ends where the reader feels bored. It kept my attention intact from the beginning till end. It has some cleverly done twists at the end of the book and the surprize ending just acts like an icing on the top of melt-in-the-mouth cheesecake
The love scenes are well written and don’t seem like an erotica. They are sensual yet graceful, but I loved to read more about the emotional gestures and playful banter Riley and Hunter shared with each other. Their care, emotions, and love all expressed vividly and the entire read was no less than watching an emotional and passionate romantic movie.
The characterization was strong. Characters are well-developed and realistic. It’s not easy to describe character in all the three dimensions, but Connie has done this with elan.
The plot has depth. It is well crafted with no room for improvement. The story is well structured. It slows down and picks up pace as and when required compelling reader not to stop reading.
The lead characters are strong and well developed. There’s an emotional connection between them, and the best thing is that you can feel strongly about both Riley and Hunter.
However, there's room for improvement in the cover of the book.
Apart from cover, I don't think there's anything that can stop me from rating this book 5 stars. This book doesn’t deserve anything less than that.
April 29, 2022
**I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review**
5 perfect stars..
Note- Contains some sexual situations, coarse language
Genre- Romance/New Adult/Contemporary
A really romantic read. Fast paced, and utterly capturing.
I admit, the first a few chapters got me a bit lost, searching for something, trying to put it all together... but after the characters meet, all the pieces seem to fit and sparks fly...
The characterization of Hunter absolutely caught my fancy. Personally, it made my heart squeeze to read about him. Characters with dark pasts & issues are my guilty pleasure. But somehow, Hunter made me feel all the hurt. Guess that's the magic of beautiful writing...
I felt that he was beautifully portrayed, an equal measure of vulnerability and hotness. The perfect Alpha Male...
Riley, on the other hand, was the perfect balm for Hunter's splintered heart. She is sweet and innocent, someone who's tired of all the hurt and pain she was forced to lug around, courtesy of an ignorant mother, who seems to blame and hate her daughter for everything that went wrong with her life.
The story was captivating, the characters were drool-worthy and the unexpected twist towards the end, all held me tight till the last page, and long after it.
Hats off to Connie..
Overall- Beautiful, sensuous and heartwarming. A perfect summery, read...
Recommended For - All die-hard Romantics. Age no bar...
5 perfect stars..
Note- Contains some sexual situations, coarse language
Genre- Romance/New Adult/Contemporary
A really romantic read. Fast paced, and utterly capturing.
I admit, the first a few chapters got me a bit lost, searching for something, trying to put it all together... but after the characters meet, all the pieces seem to fit and sparks fly...
The characterization of Hunter absolutely caught my fancy. Personally, it made my heart squeeze to read about him. Characters with dark pasts & issues are my guilty pleasure. But somehow, Hunter made me feel all the hurt. Guess that's the magic of beautiful writing...
I felt that he was beautifully portrayed, an equal measure of vulnerability and hotness. The perfect Alpha Male...
Riley, on the other hand, was the perfect balm for Hunter's splintered heart. She is sweet and innocent, someone who's tired of all the hurt and pain she was forced to lug around, courtesy of an ignorant mother, who seems to blame and hate her daughter for everything that went wrong with her life.
The story was captivating, the characters were drool-worthy and the unexpected twist towards the end, all held me tight till the last page, and long after it.
Hats off to Connie..
Overall- Beautiful, sensuous and heartwarming. A perfect summery, read...
Recommended For - All die-hard Romantics. Age no bar...
March 21, 2014
Because of You by Connie Lafortune is another quick read. It is a great story with a good plot, although it takes a while to figure it out.
Riley, just turned 18, leaves her emotionally abusive Mother and goes to South Caroline to live with her estranged Dad while she goes to school. However, she has some definite issues to deal with but has the summer to do so.
Hunter, 21, is a very messed up young man. He is a summer lifeguard and spends his days in the sun and nights investigating young ladies’ beds. He does only one night stands and is never wanting for company.
Both are now living with Scott, Riley’s father. Scott is Hunter’s lawyer and has allowed him to live in the garage apartment during the summer. Scott is completely tied up with his cases but tries to find time to work closely with Riley on rebuilding their relationship.
Sparks fly between Riley and Hunter as Scott pleads for them to go slowly. Will they get together? What about the mistakes made by both of them? Can Hunter give up his wild lifestyle?
Riley, just turned 18, leaves her emotionally abusive Mother and goes to South Caroline to live with her estranged Dad while she goes to school. However, she has some definite issues to deal with but has the summer to do so.
Hunter, 21, is a very messed up young man. He is a summer lifeguard and spends his days in the sun and nights investigating young ladies’ beds. He does only one night stands and is never wanting for company.
Both are now living with Scott, Riley’s father. Scott is Hunter’s lawyer and has allowed him to live in the garage apartment during the summer. Scott is completely tied up with his cases but tries to find time to work closely with Riley on rebuilding their relationship.
Sparks fly between Riley and Hunter as Scott pleads for them to go slowly. Will they get together? What about the mistakes made by both of them? Can Hunter give up his wild lifestyle?
December 25, 2016
This is my second book by the very talented Connie Lafortune and I was definitely not disappointed. Riley and Hunter had perfect steamy chemistry that had me panting and begging for more. Hunter is a bit of a dark soul with a tortured past. Riley, who has some demons of her own, is a refreshing balm of sweet innocence. Together they fall fast and hard, but things are never as perfect as they appear.
Riley and her dad have a difficult relationship to put it mildly and I enjoyed the angst and development of this. The side characters are well fleshed out, but it's truly Riley and Hunter who shine. The descriptors are perfect and made me feel like I was there to witness it all.
As I'm coming to learn, Lafortune is a master of spinning a good twist that I never ever saw coming. Overall, it's a perfect and sweet NA romance that is difficult (if not impossible) to put down. 5 very earned stars.
Riley and her dad have a difficult relationship to put it mildly and I enjoyed the angst and development of this. The side characters are well fleshed out, but it's truly Riley and Hunter who shine. The descriptors are perfect and made me feel like I was there to witness it all.
As I'm coming to learn, Lafortune is a master of spinning a good twist that I never ever saw coming. Overall, it's a perfect and sweet NA romance that is difficult (if not impossible) to put down. 5 very earned stars.
August 26, 2015
I received a copy in exchange for an honest review. Because Of You is a compelling story filled with passion, longing, and soul shattering guilt. This story is unique yet still believable and the characters are 3 dimensional and are easy to relate too. This is a coming of age romance that shows insurmountable grief, deceit at it's worse, and pure love that will change Riley and Hunter forever.
We begin with Riley who is creating a new life in South Carolina which she is hoping will include the father who abandoned her so easily when she was an innocent little girl. She is willing to put the past behind her and leave a neglectful mom to pursue this relationship. When she immediately encounters a tattooed hunk swimming in her father's pool, someone better throw her a lifesaver because she is already drowning in desire for Hunter. She fears to trust any man after all the men in her life have deserted her and wonders if anyone could ever love her including Hunter.
As soon as Hunter the walking sex god, notorious bad boy, lifeguard meets Riley he has the uncomfortable feelings of wanting to save her from the tumultuous waves of life and at the same time rock her world. He has been known for using women to drown out his painful past but now all he wants to do is immerse himself in Riley. But first he must give her all of his guilt ridden self and confront the past or he fears he will never be worthy of her.
I highly recommend to any lover of New Adult Romance. Especially those that want to read a love story about conquering fears, embracing the past, and loving passionately with your heart, body, and soul.
We begin with Riley who is creating a new life in South Carolina which she is hoping will include the father who abandoned her so easily when she was an innocent little girl. She is willing to put the past behind her and leave a neglectful mom to pursue this relationship. When she immediately encounters a tattooed hunk swimming in her father's pool, someone better throw her a lifesaver because she is already drowning in desire for Hunter. She fears to trust any man after all the men in her life have deserted her and wonders if anyone could ever love her including Hunter.
As soon as Hunter the walking sex god, notorious bad boy, lifeguard meets Riley he has the uncomfortable feelings of wanting to save her from the tumultuous waves of life and at the same time rock her world. He has been known for using women to drown out his painful past but now all he wants to do is immerse himself in Riley. But first he must give her all of his guilt ridden self and confront the past or he fears he will never be worthy of her.
I highly recommend to any lover of New Adult Romance. Especially those that want to read a love story about conquering fears, embracing the past, and loving passionately with your heart, body, and soul.
March 1, 2019
When Two Souls Collide, Healing Happens
I loved the way the past continued to weave into the present all the way through the story. There are so many clues planted within the story to let you know what actually happens at the end, not that I’ll spill the secret here, but suffice it to say, the author did a brilliant job of cluing you in!
While the love scenes were quite steamy, the depth of feelings between Hunter and Riley are quite evident, even when they’re fighting with one another. This story will have you laughing and crying as the layers of the story unfold to reveal the true love hidden within.
I loved the way the past continued to weave into the present all the way through the story. There are so many clues planted within the story to let you know what actually happens at the end, not that I’ll spill the secret here, but suffice it to say, the author did a brilliant job of cluing you in!
While the love scenes were quite steamy, the depth of feelings between Hunter and Riley are quite evident, even when they’re fighting with one another. This story will have you laughing and crying as the layers of the story unfold to reveal the true love hidden within.
September 24, 2014
Riley and Hunter are drawn to each other by love. They embark on a bumpy and adventurous journey together. They are tested in their love. However, they seem to sail over all the odds that are stacked against them. It is doubly difficult for both Riley and Hunter, as both have their own pasts to deal with, before they can be really sure of themselves. Love succeeds in conquering all their fears in the end.
I must confess that I am not a very enthusiastic reader of romance. However, I liked this feel-good tale.
I must confess that I am not a very enthusiastic reader of romance. However, I liked this feel-good tale.
August 3, 2016
A real feel-good story
‘Sensuous’ and ‘passionate’ and ‘compelling’ are words that immediately spring to mind after reading this romantic yarn. Not this reviewer’s normal reading fare, ‘Because of You’ more than held my attention: it left me wanting more.
It also defies belief that this is author Connie Lafortune’s debut novel! Say what?!!!
This is a real feel-good story.
Warning. Spoiler ahead: love conquers all!
‘Sensuous’ and ‘passionate’ and ‘compelling’ are words that immediately spring to mind after reading this romantic yarn. Not this reviewer’s normal reading fare, ‘Because of You’ more than held my attention: it left me wanting more.
It also defies belief that this is author Connie Lafortune’s debut novel! Say what?!!!
This is a real feel-good story.
Warning. Spoiler ahead: love conquers all!
September 8, 2018
This is the third book I have read by this author and I have enjoyed them all. She doesn’t try to be like any other author. She has her own style, which works well. She has found a successful formula and sticks to it. She is able to tell the story from multiple points of view without it becoming hard to follow. Each book tells completely different stories, with unique and intriguing characters. There is no repetition between the books and I recommend you read them all.
I am not a romantic. Love at first sight does not exist. Having said that, this book makes me want to believe in it. Hunter and Riley come from different backgrounds, but both are haunted by their childhood. Despite the fact that their histories come out slowly, you quickly get to know them and feel like you are living the events along with them.
I do have a couple of complaints. Firstly, I am a fast reader, but when I really enjoy a book I like to slow down and savour it. This book didn’t let me do that. I was so hooked I just wanted to keep reading on as fast as I could to see what happens next. It was over way too soon. As well as romance, there is just enough mystery to keep you intrigued.
Secondly, at the time of writing this, there are no more books published by this author that I haven’t read. I am going to have to wait until book 4 comes out. I am not happy.
I am not a romantic. Love at first sight does not exist. Having said that, this book makes me want to believe in it. Hunter and Riley come from different backgrounds, but both are haunted by their childhood. Despite the fact that their histories come out slowly, you quickly get to know them and feel like you are living the events along with them.
I do have a couple of complaints. Firstly, I am a fast reader, but when I really enjoy a book I like to slow down and savour it. This book didn’t let me do that. I was so hooked I just wanted to keep reading on as fast as I could to see what happens next. It was over way too soon. As well as romance, there is just enough mystery to keep you intrigued.
Secondly, at the time of writing this, there are no more books published by this author that I haven’t read. I am going to have to wait until book 4 comes out. I am not happy.
June 14, 2018
An emotional YA romance that will take your breath away
I had difficulty putting this one down, a real page turner. The story revolves around Riley, a mentally and emotionally scarred girl who decides to take her father's offer and move in with him because living with her mother for the last 12 years has been a living hell. She meets a hot life guard named Hunter, a boy with a tortured past, and sparks fly as well as a lot of emotional drama between the two. Both have thick walls guarding their feelings so strongly that it tests both of these lovers constantly, but slowly these erode away and true love flourishes. There are many twists and secrets that will make you go "wtf?" so I won't spoil them for you. Just read it and enjoy this wonderful story, you won't regret it! I highly recommend this one!
I had difficulty putting this one down, a real page turner. The story revolves around Riley, a mentally and emotionally scarred girl who decides to take her father's offer and move in with him because living with her mother for the last 12 years has been a living hell. She meets a hot life guard named Hunter, a boy with a tortured past, and sparks fly as well as a lot of emotional drama between the two. Both have thick walls guarding their feelings so strongly that it tests both of these lovers constantly, but slowly these erode away and true love flourishes. There are many twists and secrets that will make you go "wtf?" so I won't spoil them for you. Just read it and enjoy this wonderful story, you won't regret it! I highly recommend this one!
April 24, 2017
Breathtaking story
I love this author's books, this story will not disappoint you. You are enthralled from the start to finish, I won't give the plot away in this rating but I never even guessed one of those final twists at the end. Absolutely 5 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 rating - loved it you should read it.
I love this author's books, this story will not disappoint you. You are enthralled from the start to finish, I won't give the plot away in this rating but I never even guessed one of those final twists at the end. Absolutely 5 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 rating - loved it you should read it.
May 15, 2019
Just finished reading this book what a story once again you feel so many different emotions good and bad in your stories,a wonderful romance between Riley and Hunter full of life’s problems great wait to be solved.
May 18, 2022
I really liked this storyline. I liked the budding romance between Hunter and Riley. Their life stories were interesting and the way they unfolded was perfectly written. Would recommend!
November 7, 2017
Four and a half stars!
If you are looking for a hot bad boy romance book, this one is just for you. Boy, was it steamy! Hunter and Riley both have their personal demons, and this is not just a classic love story, but a story of how love helps heal the couple's wounded souls, how it helps them trust again. The change in POV was great, the book was very fast paced. I couldn't stop reading until I got to the very end.
If you are looking for a hot bad boy romance book, this one is just for you. Boy, was it steamy! Hunter and Riley both have their personal demons, and this is not just a classic love story, but a story of how love helps heal the couple's wounded souls, how it helps them trust again. The change in POV was great, the book was very fast paced. I couldn't stop reading until I got to the very end.
August 10, 2018
An okay read!
October 18, 2020
It's no secret that I love the way Connie Lafortune writes. I've been a big fan for a long time and finally read this novel which I should have done a lot sooner. Hunter and Riley have amazing chemistry. They hit it off right away and the sparks light up between them.
If you think this is another young adult book - you're wrong. It takes a certain talent to write compelling, deep, emotional stories and take characters on a journey of self-discovery as well as overcoming painful pasts. Realistic, steamy, passionate, and heartbreaking all at the same time. I was sucked in to the book and couldn't put it down. It's a page turner that will tug on your heartstrings with just enough angst and steam to be absolutely perfect.
Highly recommended!
If you think this is another young adult book - you're wrong. It takes a certain talent to write compelling, deep, emotional stories and take characters on a journey of self-discovery as well as overcoming painful pasts. Realistic, steamy, passionate, and heartbreaking all at the same time. I was sucked in to the book and couldn't put it down. It's a page turner that will tug on your heartstrings with just enough angst and steam to be absolutely perfect.
Highly recommended!
April 12, 2018
This is definitely a good read for those who enjoy a steamy YA novel. Riley was only six years old when her father left. Since that time the mother has made the little girl’s life miserable by blaming her daughter for the abandonment. Now Riley’s turned 18, and the father she barely remembers offers to pay for college if she moves from northeastern Connecticut to South Carolina to live with and get to know her estranged parent.
Hunter is a hunky, 21 year old lifeguard who lives in the apartment over Riley’s father’s garage. Hunter’s a hottie with his own set of demons.
Dad is obviously a very wealthy man. His home is right on one of the most popular beaches in South Carolina and includes a groundskeeper and housemaid/cook. Riley learns quickly that the horrible treatment she received from her mother was completely undeserved. Life is good, and it gets even better when Riley and Hunter meet. The attraction between them is instantaneous and flaming hot.
This is a well written love story with enough secrets to hold the reader’s interest.
As silly as it may sound, I couldn’t quite give this novel 5 stars because of punctuation. It was very annoying and pulled me out of the story multiple times when there was a space between the period and the end quote—especially when the end quote would end up on the next line! “This is a properly punctuated quote-no space between period and end quote.” “This is NOT a properly punctuated quote-space or sometimes even a double space between period and end quote. “ It would be an easy fix.
Hunter is a hunky, 21 year old lifeguard who lives in the apartment over Riley’s father’s garage. Hunter’s a hottie with his own set of demons.
Dad is obviously a very wealthy man. His home is right on one of the most popular beaches in South Carolina and includes a groundskeeper and housemaid/cook. Riley learns quickly that the horrible treatment she received from her mother was completely undeserved. Life is good, and it gets even better when Riley and Hunter meet. The attraction between them is instantaneous and flaming hot.
This is a well written love story with enough secrets to hold the reader’s interest.
As silly as it may sound, I couldn’t quite give this novel 5 stars because of punctuation. It was very annoying and pulled me out of the story multiple times when there was a space between the period and the end quote—especially when the end quote would end up on the next line! “This is a properly punctuated quote-no space between period and end quote.” “This is NOT a properly punctuated quote-space or sometimes even a double space between period and end quote. “ It would be an easy fix.
July 28, 2014
Riley Hamilton had no reason to refuse the offer her father gave her to go live with him and he will pay for her college expense. Even though her father walked out on her and her mother when she was young she agreed because she wasn't getting any love from her mother either.
Hunter Davis, a very hot lifeguard was every woman's dream but he had a dark past. He had great friends but he never dated anyone that seriously until he met Riley. When these two met, sparks fly and they couldn't take their eyes off each other.
I'd read many great reviews for this book and I was very excited to finally read it but it fell short for me. I find Riley very vulnerable and it wasn't a surprise because her mother kept calling her mean things. Riley and Hunter connected with each other because they were both hurt and scarred. Hunter saw the old him when he looked into Riley eyes so he wanted to help her. Riley had her heart broken once when she was younger and trusted too easily so she was cautions about who she let in but with Hunter she could be herself.
But I did feel their relationship was too fast. They just met for a couple of hours but they already wanted each other. I liked Hunter for not moving too fast even though he wanted to. They both been through some tough situations so they found comfort in each other. While I liked the story, I still feel something was missing. I love romance but this wasn't what I expected. It was an okay read.
Hunter Davis, a very hot lifeguard was every woman's dream but he had a dark past. He had great friends but he never dated anyone that seriously until he met Riley. When these two met, sparks fly and they couldn't take their eyes off each other.
I'd read many great reviews for this book and I was very excited to finally read it but it fell short for me. I find Riley very vulnerable and it wasn't a surprise because her mother kept calling her mean things. Riley and Hunter connected with each other because they were both hurt and scarred. Hunter saw the old him when he looked into Riley eyes so he wanted to help her. Riley had her heart broken once when she was younger and trusted too easily so she was cautions about who she let in but with Hunter she could be herself.
But I did feel their relationship was too fast. They just met for a couple of hours but they already wanted each other. I liked Hunter for not moving too fast even though he wanted to. They both been through some tough situations so they found comfort in each other. While I liked the story, I still feel something was missing. I love romance but this wasn't what I expected. It was an okay read.
May 25, 2015
This coming of age romance is a story with some tortured heart.
Riley is leaving behind a toxic relationship with her mother and embarking on a journey to sunny Florida where she begins a renewed relationship with her father. Planning for college and a future brighter than her past Riley arrives at her fathers oppulant home and soon meets Hunter.
Enter bad boy. It is difficult to fall in love with Hunter as a reader from go as he really is that guy your mother warns you away from. A one night stand heart breaker Hunter never claims to be anything else. But he has layers and he does have a heart and that heart has suffered.
We follow the two through a quick attraction and an attempt to make it into something more.
Ms. Lafortune writes with a quick precise hand. Her descriptive are clear and anything but flowery. You get a definite feel for the world she paints but she doesn't dawdle as she moves through the scenes creating a story with chemistry, pain and healing.
I enjoyed watching Riley learn to love alongside Hunter's struggle to do the same. The father daughter reconnection was refreshing especially after having such a rough upbringing with no parental love from her mother.
This is a wonderful love story with secrets, and twists. One I truly enjoyed reading.
Riley is leaving behind a toxic relationship with her mother and embarking on a journey to sunny Florida where she begins a renewed relationship with her father. Planning for college and a future brighter than her past Riley arrives at her fathers oppulant home and soon meets Hunter.
Enter bad boy. It is difficult to fall in love with Hunter as a reader from go as he really is that guy your mother warns you away from. A one night stand heart breaker Hunter never claims to be anything else. But he has layers and he does have a heart and that heart has suffered.
We follow the two through a quick attraction and an attempt to make it into something more.
Ms. Lafortune writes with a quick precise hand. Her descriptive are clear and anything but flowery. You get a definite feel for the world she paints but she doesn't dawdle as she moves through the scenes creating a story with chemistry, pain and healing.
I enjoyed watching Riley learn to love alongside Hunter's struggle to do the same. The father daughter reconnection was refreshing especially after having such a rough upbringing with no parental love from her mother.
This is a wonderful love story with secrets, and twists. One I truly enjoyed reading.
December 5, 2016
So I read Connie Lafortune's books backwards, but I have to say this was every bit as awesome as the next two. She writes from dual perspective in such a way that I can never seem to put the books down. The relationships she weaves into the stories are always messed up, complex, highly emotional, and the HEAT is out of this world--incredibly sexy, toe-curling and intensely intimate at the same time...
I loved getting to know Riley and Hunter as they try to overcome misrepresentations of what love is while falling head over heels for each other. The emotional abuse that Riley endured as a child prevents her from believing she is worthy of love and Hunters complete and utter devastation at the loss of his brother has made him afraid to love and lose.
The emotion within the pages is incredibly powerful and heartbreaking. It was why I couldn't put this down...I had to see them both get the love they desperately wanted and deserved.
Top notch read, again. Now I have to wait for Lafortune's next big romance. Can hardly wait.
I loved getting to know Riley and Hunter as they try to overcome misrepresentations of what love is while falling head over heels for each other. The emotional abuse that Riley endured as a child prevents her from believing she is worthy of love and Hunters complete and utter devastation at the loss of his brother has made him afraid to love and lose.
The emotion within the pages is incredibly powerful and heartbreaking. It was why I couldn't put this down...I had to see them both get the love they desperately wanted and deserved.
Top notch read, again. Now I have to wait for Lafortune's next big romance. Can hardly wait.
July 25, 2014
While I suppose Because of You would qualify as a New Adult book because of the age of the characters, and I've felt lukewarm about the New Adult books I've read, this one had something more genuine to it that stemmed from a heroine who was very relatable. Riley (great name for a girl) is more than just someone needing to be loved; she's trying to negotiate a new place and a new life with a father who gives her mixed signals. Her aspirations and Hunter's maturation combined to make a relationship that had both a fair amount of heat and plenty of back and forths that kept things interesting, especially at the beach.
One of the most interesting parts of the story has to do with Hunter and his brother. For a guy to be going through that...the read is worth it to find out what happens there and what Riley has to do to break him out of it alone.
One of the most interesting parts of the story has to do with Hunter and his brother. For a guy to be going through that...the read is worth it to find out what happens there and what Riley has to do to break him out of it alone.
December 8, 2014
From the very beginning of the story, the characters' personalities shine, with all their imperfections. Then sparks begin to fly when Riley and Hunter meet, and you expect nothing more than the sizzling romance that brews between them. All that is left to make them the perfect couple is trust. The author does a wonderful job of showing two shattered lives and how they heal each other, proving that there is more to their relationship than sex appeal. As the mystery of Hunter's past unfolds for Riley, all I could think of was the saying "Oh what a tangled web we weave when we first practice to deceive." You will enjoy reading this book and discovering the secrets that hurt so many innocent people. Kudos to the author for the emotional ride she has given her readers.
February 9, 2014
Full of emotion, Because of You is equal parts heartbreaking and heartwarming. The love story's point of view alternates between Riley's and Hunter's, and Lafortune does a fantastic job of creating a unique voice for each character. In just the first few pages, you're totally invested in the two main characters and rooting for them.
I loved it -- it's a must-read for fans of romance books.
I can't wait to see what Lafortune comes up with next! (I'm hoping there might be more to Hunter's and Riley's story!)
(Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.)
I loved it -- it's a must-read for fans of romance books.
I can't wait to see what Lafortune comes up with next! (I'm hoping there might be more to Hunter's and Riley's story!)
(Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.)
November 5, 2015
This book is a rollercoaster of emotions as you follow 18 year old Riley and 21 year old Hunter as they become lost in their love for each other, each of them trying to overcome a less than perfect past. The author throws you right into the story and you really feel like you know the characters and feel their pain. Connie Lafortune has created a a wonderful book that you can fully immerse yourself in, connecting with the emotions and laughing and crying along with Riley and Hunter. There are some good plot twists and a mysterious tragic event that has you hooked right from the start. I loved it!
November 11, 2017
Riley has been blamed for most of her life by her mother for her father's absence in their lives, though that doesn't stop her from jumping at the chance to reconnect with him when he offers to pay for her college if she will relocate to live with him.
Hunter, a sexy lifeguard, had been going through women like objects, use and discard. Then he meets Riley and things begin to change.
While this is, at surface, a romance between two young people, it is also so much more! The characters experience personal growth, reconnections with others, let go of their past, and overcome their issues. What more could you want from a book?!
Hunter, a sexy lifeguard, had been going through women like objects, use and discard. Then he meets Riley and things begin to change.
While this is, at surface, a romance between two young people, it is also so much more! The characters experience personal growth, reconnections with others, let go of their past, and overcome their issues. What more could you want from a book?!
May 3, 2018
The emotion in this book is intense. The two leads both have traumatic pasts with parents that are less than remarkable or supportive. They’ve dealt with things very differently. Riley wears her tenderness openly, while Hunter has put up a barrier and uses woman to numb his pain. Initially they seem too far apart personality wise but as things unfold I was cheering for them to find a way to heal each other. They had a smoking hot chemistry. There is a pretty big twist toward the end that really turned up the emotion another notch. I’ve now read everything by this author and can say all her books are must read.
April 4, 2014
All in all I really enjoyed this book alot, and am glad i won this book in a goodreads giveaway. The only down fall was it was so fast paced in the beginning, and jumped around so quickly I found myself completely lost a couple times. However once it gets going, it REALLY gets good I found myself unable to put it down. The characters are very relatable. The story line keeps you intrested. I just wish it hadnt been quite so fast paced in the beginning so that it was easier to get to know the characters.
I do look forward to reading more from Connie Lafortune.
I do look forward to reading more from Connie Lafortune.
February 27, 2015
I received this book via Goodreads first reads giveaway. What a page turner. I could not put it down until I finished. The plot was sound and the characters were likable. It wasn't so far fetched for me to believe that this could really happen. Their instant attraction was electric and right on spot. Hunter and Riley were both broken, but together they healed each other.
July 27, 2018
I truly loved this romance and all it's twists and turns. I couldn't put it down. It was wonderful to see Hunter and Riley help each other through their issues. The author did a wonderful job of giving us both Riley and Hunter's perspectives. I highly recommend Because of You to anyone who loves a happily ever after. I look forward to reading more by this author.
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