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Deconstructing Lila
Preservationist Lila Gentry returns to her small Texas hometown to restore the famous Chisholm Trail whorehouse where her great-great-grandmother was a madam in the 1880s. On her agenda is winning back Jake, the one that got away. But how do you rope a man who doesn't want to be wrangled? Jake lives by one Keep it simple. His ex showing up in town complicates his life and makes him think about things he'd rather forget. When Lila's restoration project is threatened before it even begins, she turns to Jake for help. Working together stirs up old feelings, but while Lila and Jake always sizzle between the sheets―or wherever the moment takes them―it will involve some sweet-talking and finesse to bring these two together.
350 pages, Paperback
First published September 23, 2014
1 person is currently reading
177 people want to read
About the author
Shannon Leigh
2 books17 followersGrowing up in Hell’s Back Forty, Shannon Leigh developed a fierce loyalty to all things Texas and pledged to share the romance of small town dance halls and the flavor of brisket BBQ with readers. Currently, she lives in Fort Worth with an extensive cowboy boot collection, a red and white, ’67 Chevy pickup and a mission to find the best taco stands in the city.
She’s been writing since Jesus was a small boy, but recently found a home with the uber wonderful folks at Entangled Publishing.
When she’s not writing fiction, she writes features for local magazines, sells real estate, and runs around with a particular 11 year old known as “The Boy.”
She’s been writing since Jesus was a small boy, but recently found a home with the uber wonderful folks at Entangled Publishing.
When she’s not writing fiction, she writes features for local magazines, sells real estate, and runs around with a particular 11 year old known as “The Boy.”
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
August 28, 2014
This book broke my heart at times well Jake broke my heart at times and Lila that girl takes things in stride and knows how to speak up, "so should I be banished from Hannington, never to return? Is that what you want, Jake? Do you want me to go away and never bother you again?" Lila is more mature when she returns to Jake and I think that it's great for their relationship they weren't ready before, "I had an orgasm, too. I'd like to think I was part of this afternoon delight." She said this with Jake still inside her." I enjoyed reading this book when Jake wasn't being a boob.
April 1, 2015
This reunited lovers romance is the story of Lila and Jake. Married young, when Jake found out he had cancer he did everything he could to push Lila away, in his mind to set her free to have a future without him. For 10 years Lila did stay away, but she's made up her mind to come back to her hometown and convince Jake that there is still time for a future together. With the excuse of saving her great-great grandmother's bawdy house from demolition and restoring it into a new business, she's back and it's up to Jake to decide whether he's pushed her away long enough.
I really enjoyed this romance between two people who were so in love as teenagers but were unable to let the "till death do us part" section of their vows stay true. Lila is now a strong, confident woman, no longer the scared and heartbroken young adult who couldn't put up with the emotional blocks her new and sick husband threw in her way. I admired her determination and willingness to show Jake that she wasn't going to be pushed away any more. Jake is also an engaging character, strong and handsome, but with an inner vulnerability due to his illness. He's never lost his love for Lila and couldn't stand the thought of dying on her so he pushed her away instead - but seeing her again brings up all the reasons they belonged together in the first place. Despite their years long separation, the sexual chemistry between them still sizzles and the love scenes between them are steamy and emotional.
Another aspect of the story that I really liked was the diary of Lila's great great grandmother Prudence. Interspersing those entries and Pru's love affair with a local cattle baron while Lila was working on the restoration of the bawdy house was an interesting way to connect the past and the present.
Several secondary characters play key roles in the story as well, including Lila and Jake's families, Jake's friend Casler (who I confess I would like to see have his own story) and Lila's business partner Mark. They added some emotional moments and humorous ones as well. The plot was relatively fast paced and there were scenes of suspense that added some tension into the mix. Overall it was an entertaining, heartwarming and steamy romance with a wonderful couple who deserve their happy ever after. 4 stars!
Note: a copy of this story was provided by the publisher for review
I really enjoyed this romance between two people who were so in love as teenagers but were unable to let the "till death do us part" section of their vows stay true. Lila is now a strong, confident woman, no longer the scared and heartbroken young adult who couldn't put up with the emotional blocks her new and sick husband threw in her way. I admired her determination and willingness to show Jake that she wasn't going to be pushed away any more. Jake is also an engaging character, strong and handsome, but with an inner vulnerability due to his illness. He's never lost his love for Lila and couldn't stand the thought of dying on her so he pushed her away instead - but seeing her again brings up all the reasons they belonged together in the first place. Despite their years long separation, the sexual chemistry between them still sizzles and the love scenes between them are steamy and emotional.
Another aspect of the story that I really liked was the diary of Lila's great great grandmother Prudence. Interspersing those entries and Pru's love affair with a local cattle baron while Lila was working on the restoration of the bawdy house was an interesting way to connect the past and the present.
Several secondary characters play key roles in the story as well, including Lila and Jake's families, Jake's friend Casler (who I confess I would like to see have his own story) and Lila's business partner Mark. They added some emotional moments and humorous ones as well. The plot was relatively fast paced and there were scenes of suspense that added some tension into the mix. Overall it was an entertaining, heartwarming and steamy romance with a wonderful couple who deserve their happy ever after. 4 stars!
Note: a copy of this story was provided by the publisher for review
June 26, 2016
Deconstructing Lila by Shannon Leigh is a good novel. Originally from the small town of Hannington, Texas, Lila Gentry was raised by her Granny, because her father died in Desert Storm and her mother deserted her shortly thereafter. Lila married her high school sweetheart, Jake Winter, immediately after graduation. Lila and Jake were madly in love and planned to spend every moment together. Then Jake was diagnosed with cancer, and their plans for a bright future slowly deteriorated. Jake began the process of shutting Lila out from his life, because he did not want her to suffer along with him and he did not want her saddled with an uncertain future. It took about a year, but Jake finally got Lila disgusted enough to leave him.
Now it is ten years later, and Lila returns to Hannington with one goal, to get Jake back. She is finally successful, after she and Jake share many conversations, have a few confrontations, work together on a restoration project, and have some mind-blowing sex.
An interesting secondary plot to the storyline is that Lila ends up buying a building in town that her great, great grandmother once owned and ran a brothel from. Lila is a successful real estate preservationist, and restoring the building means a lot to her and her family. Jake just happens to be the contractor that is approved by the town to renovate the historical site.
I liked this story, despite that fact that I found it to be a little slow at times and lacking emotional depth. Jake's epiphany, and the exciting ending more than made up for it though, and the epilogue left me smiling from ear to ear.
Complimentary copy provided by the publisher.
Now it is ten years later, and Lila returns to Hannington with one goal, to get Jake back. She is finally successful, after she and Jake share many conversations, have a few confrontations, work together on a restoration project, and have some mind-blowing sex.
An interesting secondary plot to the storyline is that Lila ends up buying a building in town that her great, great grandmother once owned and ran a brothel from. Lila is a successful real estate preservationist, and restoring the building means a lot to her and her family. Jake just happens to be the contractor that is approved by the town to renovate the historical site.
I liked this story, despite that fact that I found it to be a little slow at times and lacking emotional depth. Jake's epiphany, and the exciting ending more than made up for it though, and the epilogue left me smiling from ear to ear.
Complimentary copy provided by the publisher.
September 15, 2014
3.5*
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
From the very beginning this book had me hooked. I finished it in just one day.
It was all in all a romantic, sweet story with an interesting historical side story.
Lila returns to her hometown in Texas to restore the whorehouse where her great-great-grandmother worked as a prostitute. But this is not the only reason she returns. She is also trying to win back her true love, Jake.
I liked the book because it follows not only Lila and Jake's story but also the story of her great-great-grandmother and her love for a rich farmer. We discover this story in form of an old diary Lila received from a mysterious unknown person.
A nice afternoon read.
You can find my full german review on my blog: Deconstructing Lila by Shannon Leigh
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
From the very beginning this book had me hooked. I finished it in just one day.
It was all in all a romantic, sweet story with an interesting historical side story.
Lila returns to her hometown in Texas to restore the whorehouse where her great-great-grandmother worked as a prostitute. But this is not the only reason she returns. She is also trying to win back her true love, Jake.
I liked the book because it follows not only Lila and Jake's story but also the story of her great-great-grandmother and her love for a rich farmer. We discover this story in form of an old diary Lila received from a mysterious unknown person.
A nice afternoon read.
You can find my full german review on my blog: Deconstructing Lila by Shannon Leigh
September 25, 2014
Lila Gentry is back in her home town of Hannington. She's determined to reconcile with her estranged husband, Jake Winters. They've been apart for ten years, but she has never stopped thinking of him. She doesn't plan to take no for an answer. Also, she wants to restore a former brothel run by Miss Prudence MacIntosh. According to her grandmother, Miss Pru was part of their family history. Will Lila be able to accomplish her desires? I enjoyed how the author handled the interwoven storylines of Miss Pru and Lila. She was able to skillfully mix the past and the present in a way that they complimented each other. The characters were compelling and intriguing. Fear was the underlying theme that ran throughout Deconstructing Lila. Jake and Lila need to stop running from their love and face their fears. This book touched me with it realism and deeply emotional storyline. I cared for the characters and I wanted them to find love and happiness. Shannon Leigh wrote a very powerful story!
December 4, 2014
GAWD!, this was a good read. Here's the gist .... many years ago, Jake got cancer. He was married to Lilah. Somehow, he got it in his head that Lila would be better off without him and made it so she just could not stay anymore. So she leaves. Ten years later we have ourselves a second chance romance.
The story itself had a few moments that seemed to drag on to the point of skimming. But overall, this was a really well written story. The ending was really great and the Epilogue leaves you with a smile on your face! there were also scenes of suspense that added some tension into the mix. Overall it was an entertaining, heartwarming and steamy romance.
ARC provided via NetGalley by Entangled Publishing, LLC in exchange for an honest review.
The story itself had a few moments that seemed to drag on to the point of skimming. But overall, this was a really well written story. The ending was really great and the Epilogue leaves you with a smile on your face! there were also scenes of suspense that added some tension into the mix. Overall it was an entertaining, heartwarming and steamy romance.
ARC provided via NetGalley by Entangled Publishing, LLC in exchange for an honest review.
September 24, 2014
I was expecting an amazing entangled contemporary romance but I got a mystery as well. This book was full of surprises, a lot more fun than I hoped for. I loved Lila's character and how she coped with hardships in life and get over her disappointment- with her therapist's help of course. She was willing to get her life back and strong enough for fight for the things she believed in.
Jake is her ex-husband, although they weren't really divorced but it had been a long time since Lila was back in town. Now she was and Jake was confused. The attraction between them was still there but was it wise to give it another try?
Prudence's character and diary put an interesting spin to the whole plot and the mystery behind its sender was a nice touch too. I enjoyed reading.
Jake is her ex-husband, although they weren't really divorced but it had been a long time since Lila was back in town. Now she was and Jake was confused. The attraction between them was still there but was it wise to give it another try?
Prudence's character and diary put an interesting spin to the whole plot and the mystery behind its sender was a nice touch too. I enjoyed reading.
April 19, 2024
A bittersweet second chance romance with wonderful characters and a quirky small-town where some people hold onto grudges way too long. The second chance part? There’s a twist to it. It is revealed quickly so you won’t be kept in suspense too long. However, the details of how it all went down unroll slowly throughout the story. This one has shades of Sweet Home Alabama, western style. There’s heartbreak a plenty in this one, too. Deconstructing Lila has a little bit of everything that makes it a great start to this series.
September 24, 2014
Lila Gentry has had a tough life. Her father died when she was very young and her mother left her soon after. Raised by her Granny, Lila managed to do well in school and married her high school sweetheart, Jake Winters, right after graduation. But then Jake was diagnosed with cancer and he spent the better part of a year trying to get her to leave him. His efforts finally wore Lila down and she left Hannington, Texas for Dallas and hasn’t been back in ten years. But now business has brought her home to an injured Granny, a still-lustful yet distant husband, and a mystery diary linked to the condemned building Lila buys shortly after arriving. Lila is determined to get her husband back and, lucky for her, Jake is the contractor assigned to the condemned building. Lust flares between Lila and Jake, and although he’s been cancer-free for a year, will it be enough to bring the two lovers back together?
All right, I’m going to come straight out and say that I did not like this book. It was boring, slow, and failed to ever engage my interest. The characters are flat, quirks are thrown in for quirky-ness sake, and neither the hero nor the heroine could form any kind of consistent personality to save their lives. The “obstacles” in the hero and heroine’s lives were superficial and did not appear to play any significant role in the story since the “obstacle” was only an obstacle when it suited the plot’s purpose.
The plot was promising, but failed to engage my interest I think due largely in part to the writing. There are a myriad of unnecessary details bogging down the plot’s progress, so much that is is at times borderline purple prose. The “diary entries” from Miss Pru’s diary do not read like diary entries at all and are instead just another story within the story. This would be fine except that there are times when the point of view of the “diary entries” change from traditional third person (like the novel itself) into first person (diary entry style) and then back again. Already thrown by the third person-styled diary entries, I found this jumping back and forth even more jarring. Combine this style with the lack of transition or connection with the main plot and I was more than a little frustrated by this book.
I almost quit reading this book so many times. If the publisher had not provided a copy in exchange for an honest review, I would not have bothered to finish it at all. I dreaded each time I had to pick it up and was not interested by the characters or plot at all. Skip this one.
I received this book for free from the Publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
All right, I’m going to come straight out and say that I did not like this book. It was boring, slow, and failed to ever engage my interest. The characters are flat, quirks are thrown in for quirky-ness sake, and neither the hero nor the heroine could form any kind of consistent personality to save their lives. The “obstacles” in the hero and heroine’s lives were superficial and did not appear to play any significant role in the story since the “obstacle” was only an obstacle when it suited the plot’s purpose.
The plot was promising, but failed to engage my interest I think due largely in part to the writing. There are a myriad of unnecessary details bogging down the plot’s progress, so much that is is at times borderline purple prose. The “diary entries” from Miss Pru’s diary do not read like diary entries at all and are instead just another story within the story. This would be fine except that there are times when the point of view of the “diary entries” change from traditional third person (like the novel itself) into first person (diary entry style) and then back again. Already thrown by the third person-styled diary entries, I found this jumping back and forth even more jarring. Combine this style with the lack of transition or connection with the main plot and I was more than a little frustrated by this book.
I almost quit reading this book so many times. If the publisher had not provided a copy in exchange for an honest review, I would not have bothered to finish it at all. I dreaded each time I had to pick it up and was not interested by the characters or plot at all. Skip this one.
I received this book for free from the Publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
September 24, 2014
The characters really spoke to me.
Fear is the main factor in this story. Lila is afraid that Jake won't want her enough. Jake is afraid his cancer will return. Lila's mother is afraid her daughter won't forgive her for running off 25 years ago. Miss Pru is afraid that her true love will be punished for his association with her. Who are all these people? They are the characters in this book that make it worth reading. Lila and Jake's story is intertwined with one from Lila's ancestor, Miss Pru. The author skillfully uses an old journal from Miss Pru to give Lila the impetus to win Jake back.
Lila is a woman who must fight against feelings of unworthiness left by being abandoned by her mother when she was five. Jake became her best friend and her love as she went through her teen years. They married and were happy until Jake found out he had cancer. He let his fear take over and he drove Lila away with the mistaken thought that she would hurt less that way than if she stayed with him and watched him die. After ten years, Lila decides that Jake is worth the possibility of another rejection and returns to win him back. He is still an idiot because he has let fear rule his life for ten years and has no plans to change. Finally, he realizes that life is to be lived. We don't have any guarantees.
Paralleling this story is the one in the journal of Miss Pru and Luke Pierce. He is an important rancher and she is a Madam at a town whorehouse. He falls in love with her and wants her to stay with him. She is afraid that associating with her will alienate him from the town and hurt him. Once again someone (Miss Pru) is trying to protect someone else and ends up hurting them in the process. The new sheriff shuts Miss Pru down while Luke is out-of-town on a cattle drive. When he returns he rides up and carries her off, telling her she will marry him. Pru finds out the same thing Jake did. Life is too short. Take chances.
I became just as wrapped up in the story the journal was telling as I did in the modern-day story of Jake and Lila. This book was a delight to read, and one that I'm sure I will want to reread in the future. I will be watching for more books from this author.
I was given this book and asked for an honest review. I am always pleased when I can give a good one like this.
Fear is the main factor in this story. Lila is afraid that Jake won't want her enough. Jake is afraid his cancer will return. Lila's mother is afraid her daughter won't forgive her for running off 25 years ago. Miss Pru is afraid that her true love will be punished for his association with her. Who are all these people? They are the characters in this book that make it worth reading. Lila and Jake's story is intertwined with one from Lila's ancestor, Miss Pru. The author skillfully uses an old journal from Miss Pru to give Lila the impetus to win Jake back.
Lila is a woman who must fight against feelings of unworthiness left by being abandoned by her mother when she was five. Jake became her best friend and her love as she went through her teen years. They married and were happy until Jake found out he had cancer. He let his fear take over and he drove Lila away with the mistaken thought that she would hurt less that way than if she stayed with him and watched him die. After ten years, Lila decides that Jake is worth the possibility of another rejection and returns to win him back. He is still an idiot because he has let fear rule his life for ten years and has no plans to change. Finally, he realizes that life is to be lived. We don't have any guarantees.
Paralleling this story is the one in the journal of Miss Pru and Luke Pierce. He is an important rancher and she is a Madam at a town whorehouse. He falls in love with her and wants her to stay with him. She is afraid that associating with her will alienate him from the town and hurt him. Once again someone (Miss Pru) is trying to protect someone else and ends up hurting them in the process. The new sheriff shuts Miss Pru down while Luke is out-of-town on a cattle drive. When he returns he rides up and carries her off, telling her she will marry him. Pru finds out the same thing Jake did. Life is too short. Take chances.
I became just as wrapped up in the story the journal was telling as I did in the modern-day story of Jake and Lila. This book was a delight to read, and one that I'm sure I will want to reread in the future. I will be watching for more books from this author.
I was given this book and asked for an honest review. I am always pleased when I can give a good one like this.
October 22, 2014
Reviewed on my blog, Becky on Books on 10/22/14.
Deconstructing Lila has an interesting structure--Lila and Jake's modern second-chance romance, told in the narrative, parallels that of Lila's ancestress Prudence MacIntyre and her rancher significant other, Luke Gentry, revealed through journal entries and Pru's relationship "lessons". I enjoyed the dual stories--a bonus historical romance within a contemporary--though I would have liked to have gotten a lot more detail about Pru's life than we actually do. I suppose, though, that Lila got more page time since technically it's her (and Luke's) story--but still. The life of an 19th century madam would be pretty fascinating to read about.
There's a touch of mystery in the novel--just who sent Lila the journal? She also has some fairly major family surprises along the way. Jake, on top of dealing with the fact the girl he drove away is back once more, is also due for his yearly doctor's visit--is the reason that he sent Lila packing also back? Oh, and did I mention that Lila's trying to buy and restore Pru's former "house of ill repute", which was slated for the wrecking ball, and Jake's crew is the only one in town qualified to do the work?
There's a whole lot of drama going on in those 300+ pages.
But...it was pretty slow moving drama. I liked the characters--Granny in particular was a hoot--but on the whole neither Lila nor Jake ever seemed to really get invested in their problems, which made it hard for me to get overly emotional about them either. In the end, both the contemporary and the historical plots are resolved fairly abruptly, with their individual crises ending so easily it's almost as if the obstacles were never even there at all.
This was my first book by Shannon Leigh. Though it didn't quite work for me, there is definite promise here--I'd be more than willing to give another of her books a try in the future.
Rating: 3 stars / C+
I received a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.
Deconstructing Lila has an interesting structure--Lila and Jake's modern second-chance romance, told in the narrative, parallels that of Lila's ancestress Prudence MacIntyre and her rancher significant other, Luke Gentry, revealed through journal entries and Pru's relationship "lessons". I enjoyed the dual stories--a bonus historical romance within a contemporary--though I would have liked to have gotten a lot more detail about Pru's life than we actually do. I suppose, though, that Lila got more page time since technically it's her (and Luke's) story--but still. The life of an 19th century madam would be pretty fascinating to read about.
There's a touch of mystery in the novel--just who sent Lila the journal? She also has some fairly major family surprises along the way. Jake, on top of dealing with the fact the girl he drove away is back once more, is also due for his yearly doctor's visit--is the reason that he sent Lila packing also back? Oh, and did I mention that Lila's trying to buy and restore Pru's former "house of ill repute", which was slated for the wrecking ball, and Jake's crew is the only one in town qualified to do the work?
There's a whole lot of drama going on in those 300+ pages.
But...it was pretty slow moving drama. I liked the characters--Granny in particular was a hoot--but on the whole neither Lila nor Jake ever seemed to really get invested in their problems, which made it hard for me to get overly emotional about them either. In the end, both the contemporary and the historical plots are resolved fairly abruptly, with their individual crises ending so easily it's almost as if the obstacles were never even there at all.
This was my first book by Shannon Leigh. Though it didn't quite work for me, there is definite promise here--I'd be more than willing to give another of her books a try in the future.
Rating: 3 stars / C+
I received a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.
September 23, 2014
Lila Gentry has returned to her small Texas hometown with an agenda, restore the famous Chisholm Trail whorehouse and to win back her estranged husband…even if he doesn’t want to be wrangled in this captivating contemporary romance.
This steady to fast paced and smooth flowing plot captivates readers with lots of suspense, drama and romance. The author describes the story with well written scenes and details that capture the imagination and well orchestrated drama between the hero and heroine draws the reader deep into the story as the strong compelling characters are brought to life with vibrant intensity.
Lila and Jake still burns hot even after years apart, but Lila knew that because she’s still in love with her stubborn husband. The reader can’t help but get caught up in their story as Jake continues to try to push Lila away and emotionally gripping scenes occur between them some full of passion, some hurtful, some full of jealousy, but mostly full of hard-headedness. There’s no denying that things were a mess when the couple split up, but wow, these two need a brain overhaul and lots of help from family and friends if they are ever going to work things out.
Added drama surrounding the restoration of the whorehouse adds some spice to the story and a bridge between Lila and Jake. There is also an intriguing link to the past that adds depth and an historical element to the story and as well as past relationships being mended but new ones are formed as well giving the story a nice rounded community feeling as Lila tries to revive her marriage to the only man she has ever loved. Overall the story is an enjoyable and entertaining story that grips the heart and provides a wonderful happily ever after.
This steady to fast paced and smooth flowing plot captivates readers with lots of suspense, drama and romance. The author describes the story with well written scenes and details that capture the imagination and well orchestrated drama between the hero and heroine draws the reader deep into the story as the strong compelling characters are brought to life with vibrant intensity.
Lila and Jake still burns hot even after years apart, but Lila knew that because she’s still in love with her stubborn husband. The reader can’t help but get caught up in their story as Jake continues to try to push Lila away and emotionally gripping scenes occur between them some full of passion, some hurtful, some full of jealousy, but mostly full of hard-headedness. There’s no denying that things were a mess when the couple split up, but wow, these two need a brain overhaul and lots of help from family and friends if they are ever going to work things out.
Added drama surrounding the restoration of the whorehouse adds some spice to the story and a bridge between Lila and Jake. There is also an intriguing link to the past that adds depth and an historical element to the story and as well as past relationships being mended but new ones are formed as well giving the story a nice rounded community feeling as Lila tries to revive her marriage to the only man she has ever loved. Overall the story is an enjoyable and entertaining story that grips the heart and provides a wonderful happily ever after.
September 29, 2014
It's hard to write what I felt and thought while I read this book. Most of the time, my heart grieved for Jake and Lila. They lived in fear of the unknown. Jake didn't know if his cancer would return. Lila didn't know if returning to their hometown would afford them the chance to try again.
I didn't just want them to have a second chance at love; I wanted them, especially Jake, to realize and know that tomorrow isn't a guarantee and that living, even if it's just for a moment, is worth the risk.
To say I didn't understand Jake or Lila's fears would be a lie. Ms. Leigh's talent for writing deep character POVs showed up in her first novel, Forbidden Kiss, and it's made its way into this novel as well. Being able to see how and what Jake and Lila were feeling, thinking, wishing, and hoping was insightful for this lengthy story. After all, there's no point in writing a 350 page novel if the characters' POVs are superficial fluff, right?
There was a lot to take in. Lila's return to their hometown. The whorehouse that belonged to her great-great grandmother that she wants to restore. Jake's cancer and his fear of it returning. Lila's abandonment issues and the unexpected return of her long-absent mom. Jake and Lila's renewed feelings for another and what that means for any future they might have.
This story takes its time. It's slow and even-paced. Right now, for me, it's a perfect read. When I picked up this book, I needed a story that was sweet and sensual, frustrating and loving, maddening and cleansing. I wanted a happy ending I didn't see coming, a love that had to be fought for. I needed to get lost in a good book, and wound up lost in a great book.
***Received from Entangled Publishing for an honest review***
I didn't just want them to have a second chance at love; I wanted them, especially Jake, to realize and know that tomorrow isn't a guarantee and that living, even if it's just for a moment, is worth the risk.
To say I didn't understand Jake or Lila's fears would be a lie. Ms. Leigh's talent for writing deep character POVs showed up in her first novel, Forbidden Kiss, and it's made its way into this novel as well. Being able to see how and what Jake and Lila were feeling, thinking, wishing, and hoping was insightful for this lengthy story. After all, there's no point in writing a 350 page novel if the characters' POVs are superficial fluff, right?
There was a lot to take in. Lila's return to their hometown. The whorehouse that belonged to her great-great grandmother that she wants to restore. Jake's cancer and his fear of it returning. Lila's abandonment issues and the unexpected return of her long-absent mom. Jake and Lila's renewed feelings for another and what that means for any future they might have.
This story takes its time. It's slow and even-paced. Right now, for me, it's a perfect read. When I picked up this book, I needed a story that was sweet and sensual, frustrating and loving, maddening and cleansing. I wanted a happy ending I didn't see coming, a love that had to be fought for. I needed to get lost in a good book, and wound up lost in a great book.
***Received from Entangled Publishing for an honest review***
October 3, 2014
This book is difficult to categorize. At first glance it is a contemporary romance. But it’s not quite that simple as the story also deals with issues in recent, and not-so-recent past. It has a bit of a western feel, without actually being a western, and there are definite mystery aspects—both in the origins of the antique journal and in why the main characters’ relationship previously failed.
There is a bit of a play on dual storylines here, with the main focus being the contemporary featuring Lila & Jake. The less detailed secondary storyline focuses on events in the late 1800s and occurs flashback style as Lila reads Miss Pru’s journal. Additionally, the entire book is interspersed with relationship quips from the journal that created the impetus for the plot.
The author does a decent job of weaving together the distant past—and history of the building—with the modern plotline, as well as the events that occurred between Lila & Jake years earlier. Despite all the back and forth in the timeline, it never feels like anything is taken away from the focus of here and now.
My only issue with this book is the ending. I found it to be rushed, and frankly, more than a bit disappointing. It was oddly anticlimactic considering it had quite a lot of dramatic action. It’s difficult to explain without resorting to spoilers, but that is the impression I am left with, just an over-all feeling of “Wait…it’s over? That’s it?”
I’d give 4.5 stars for the first 80% of the book and 2 stars for the unsatisfying ending.
For the sake of full disclosure it must be stated that I received this book, free of charge, from Entangled Publishing.
There is a bit of a play on dual storylines here, with the main focus being the contemporary featuring Lila & Jake. The less detailed secondary storyline focuses on events in the late 1800s and occurs flashback style as Lila reads Miss Pru’s journal. Additionally, the entire book is interspersed with relationship quips from the journal that created the impetus for the plot.
The author does a decent job of weaving together the distant past—and history of the building—with the modern plotline, as well as the events that occurred between Lila & Jake years earlier. Despite all the back and forth in the timeline, it never feels like anything is taken away from the focus of here and now.
My only issue with this book is the ending. I found it to be rushed, and frankly, more than a bit disappointing. It was oddly anticlimactic considering it had quite a lot of dramatic action. It’s difficult to explain without resorting to spoilers, but that is the impression I am left with, just an over-all feeling of “Wait…it’s over? That’s it?”
I’d give 4.5 stars for the first 80% of the book and 2 stars for the unsatisfying ending.
For the sake of full disclosure it must be stated that I received this book, free of charge, from Entangled Publishing.
September 25, 2014
Since I have read a novel by this author before I knew she can write. In this one it is alittle different contemporary romance being the genre. Lila comes back to town at the urging of her grandmother and also with the intent to reclaim two things-ancestor's property and her man. Love to read when the girl has gumtion and not afraid of going after what she wants. Things will not be easy and if they were this novel would not be worth reading. Jake has what she needs in the fight to obtain and restore the property-his construction company. Also we the readers will also find out alittle tidbit about the two of them that they had been married until cancer came knocking at his door which his actions pushed her out the door. While the time he spent fighting she spent building and restoring and making a name for herself. Now back in town he is in for a different fight of his life with Lila. This author makes this duo interesting when they have had a past but the future can and will be so sweet. The obstacles she encounters she meets head on, good for her. Her grandmother is quite a character also with some interesting friends. The battle of wills between Jake and Lila make for a interesting read with love also having its way. Fear is a mighty big obstacle to overcome but I think Jake is up for the task especially when he realizes just what is important. The author also does a mighty fine job with the bordello angle and the history and diary is excellent touch. Not a thing will be lost but lots won as we the readers enjoy her deconstructing.
Received a arc for a honest review.
Received a arc for a honest review.
September 23, 2014
This book was another great example of Entangled's contemporary romance strength.
Lila - great character. I loved that she was into preserving buildings and that she wasn't going to let someone bully her into not buying/restoring the whorehouse in town. I also really enjoyed the mystery behind just who sent her her ancestor madam's journal to draw her BACK to her home town after she'd left it so long ago. She also wasn't going to just pretend her ex didn't exist. After all, that's half the reason she comes back to town (not a spoiler because it's admitted early on).
Jake - Jake, for me was probably a BIT of a weak spot. I think he was something of a jerk for his reason for pushing Lila away. She was still a teenager and he didn't give her credit, or even a fair chance, to really adjust to the reality that he had to accept while they were together (deliberately being a bit obscure). Still, he'd clearly never gotten over her and it was lovely to see these two finally find their way back into the depths of love.
The secondary story about the brothel madam filled this book out nicely and I liked the mix of modern and journal entries for the past. The villain...well, let's just say I liked the villain because their motivations were pretty cut and dried, and they were pretty out in the open about the fact that they were trying to interfere in the restoration of the saloon/brothel.
So, anyway, total win for me. Hope to read more set in/around this town soon!
Book came directly from Entangled and I'm sooooo glad to have read it. Five big ol' gargoyles from me!
Lila - great character. I loved that she was into preserving buildings and that she wasn't going to let someone bully her into not buying/restoring the whorehouse in town. I also really enjoyed the mystery behind just who sent her her ancestor madam's journal to draw her BACK to her home town after she'd left it so long ago. She also wasn't going to just pretend her ex didn't exist. After all, that's half the reason she comes back to town (not a spoiler because it's admitted early on).
Jake - Jake, for me was probably a BIT of a weak spot. I think he was something of a jerk for his reason for pushing Lila away. She was still a teenager and he didn't give her credit, or even a fair chance, to really adjust to the reality that he had to accept while they were together (deliberately being a bit obscure). Still, he'd clearly never gotten over her and it was lovely to see these two finally find their way back into the depths of love.
The secondary story about the brothel madam filled this book out nicely and I liked the mix of modern and journal entries for the past. The villain...well, let's just say I liked the villain because their motivations were pretty cut and dried, and they were pretty out in the open about the fact that they were trying to interfere in the restoration of the saloon/brothel.
So, anyway, total win for me. Hope to read more set in/around this town soon!
Book came directly from Entangled and I'm sooooo glad to have read it. Five big ol' gargoyles from me!
October 13, 2014
Rating: 4 1/2 stars
I received a copy of this book from the publisher and the author in exchange for an honest review. I was not compensated in any way.
This is an interesting read that didn’t take long to hook me in. The toughest part was trying to find the best stopping point – and boy I have to tell you it was very hard to find that perfect spot. I found this book might be a great incentive for some readers to go back and see if they have any really interesting ancestors. Can you imagine how fascinating it would be to find a book that a past relative wrote down their thoughts and then having the chance to actually read it and maybe learn something interesting that you might not have known before?
This is a story where one of the characters has a health issue and how that issue can affect personal relationships. What makes this story so relatable is that the family dynamics are those that are very real just like the emotions these characters emote. I loved the title but as I sat there reading, I thought a good subtitle might be “Deconstructing Life”. Not everyone goes through life without something happening to him or her.
For me the story of family, both past and present, is what was important here. Lila and Jacob’s story just became the icing on the cake. The ending, for me was HFN, because we just don’t know what life has in store for us. As my father says “only one man knows and he’s not talking”. I can’t wait to see what this author has in store for her readers next.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher and the author in exchange for an honest review. I was not compensated in any way.
This is an interesting read that didn’t take long to hook me in. The toughest part was trying to find the best stopping point – and boy I have to tell you it was very hard to find that perfect spot. I found this book might be a great incentive for some readers to go back and see if they have any really interesting ancestors. Can you imagine how fascinating it would be to find a book that a past relative wrote down their thoughts and then having the chance to actually read it and maybe learn something interesting that you might not have known before?
This is a story where one of the characters has a health issue and how that issue can affect personal relationships. What makes this story so relatable is that the family dynamics are those that are very real just like the emotions these characters emote. I loved the title but as I sat there reading, I thought a good subtitle might be “Deconstructing Life”. Not everyone goes through life without something happening to him or her.
For me the story of family, both past and present, is what was important here. Lila and Jacob’s story just became the icing on the cake. The ending, for me was HFN, because we just don’t know what life has in store for us. As my father says “only one man knows and he’s not talking”. I can’t wait to see what this author has in store for her readers next.
September 10, 2014
I found this quite a tough review to write, not because the story is bad or poorly written (there are a few minor editing problems) but because I found it a little slow.
Lila married her high school sweetheart at the tender age of 18 but circumstances and the man in her life drove her to leave town, the only place she's ever called home.
Jake, Lila's husband, pushed her away for what appears to be altruistic reasons but did he do the right thing?
Returning home and winning Jake back are the only things pushing Lila. She wants to rekindle what they had - but is she too late? Will the stubborn man welcome her with open arms? What about her hometown? How will they view her plans?
Although this is a sweet love story, interspersed with sage advice in the form of an old journal, I found the characters slightly one dimensional and the story a little slow.
I wanted to know more about Lila's family history and didn't feel like the "ins and outs" and certainly Threasa's connection were explored sufficiently. Lila's relationship with her mother was skimmed over and I felt there could have been more detail given here too.
Personally, I found the story to be a little on the dull side with not enough chemistry but if you're looking for a simple love story with no drama, then you'll probably enjoy this little tale.
Lila married her high school sweetheart at the tender age of 18 but circumstances and the man in her life drove her to leave town, the only place she's ever called home.
Jake, Lila's husband, pushed her away for what appears to be altruistic reasons but did he do the right thing?
Returning home and winning Jake back are the only things pushing Lila. She wants to rekindle what they had - but is she too late? Will the stubborn man welcome her with open arms? What about her hometown? How will they view her plans?
Although this is a sweet love story, interspersed with sage advice in the form of an old journal, I found the characters slightly one dimensional and the story a little slow.
I wanted to know more about Lila's family history and didn't feel like the "ins and outs" and certainly Threasa's connection were explored sufficiently. Lila's relationship with her mother was skimmed over and I felt there could have been more detail given here too.
Personally, I found the story to be a little on the dull side with not enough chemistry but if you're looking for a simple love story with no drama, then you'll probably enjoy this little tale.
October 18, 2014
Deconstructing Lila is a wonderfully entertaining contemporary romance that will have rooting for the heroine, "Lila Gentry," time and time again. After being away for 10 years, Lila decides it is time to come home, back to where she grew up, back to the man she loved, and try her best to win him back while restoring her great grandmother's whorehouse from the 1880's. Jake's as attracted to Lila as he was when she left 10 years ago, but he believes his situation justifies pushing her away, for her own good, but is it, and when he finally comes to his senses will it be to late?
Deconstructing Lila is the story of these two people who discover that love will always find a way, or at least it will try. The story is entertaining and kind of feels like a good Lifetime Movie, something I really enjoy. Lila is charismatic, determined, and you can't help but love her. Jake is hot, dreamy, broody, and despite his being hard-headed, I really liked him. The secondary characters also play an important role in making the story story stand out and grab your attention. If you enjoy contemporary romance, then Deconstructing Lila is a story that is fun, focusing on some serious issues, while at the same time being lighthearted and fun, making this a great weekend read.
Deconstructing Lila is the story of these two people who discover that love will always find a way, or at least it will try. The story is entertaining and kind of feels like a good Lifetime Movie, something I really enjoy. Lila is charismatic, determined, and you can't help but love her. Jake is hot, dreamy, broody, and despite his being hard-headed, I really liked him. The secondary characters also play an important role in making the story story stand out and grab your attention. If you enjoy contemporary romance, then Deconstructing Lila is a story that is fun, focusing on some serious issues, while at the same time being lighthearted and fun, making this a great weekend read.
September 23, 2014
What a breathe of fresh air in a sense... finally the woman wasn't the one who was holding back and needy, moody and everything!
You will fall in love with Lila and come to even love her humorous Grandmother who meddled. :) hehehe
This book is about Lila returning home after ten years of being gone; due to receiving a book... and it lead her home. But with reasons that made her leave.. can she make the only man she's ever loved wake up.. and accept them?
Jake is a wonderful man, but stubborn and completely scared. He chooses to push Lila away and now that she's home... can he get her to go away again?
I enjoyed Lila and her determination to make things right. I think she was amazing and a truly wonderful woman!
I loved the intense attraction these two had. It was hot and intense. I loved their friends which brought some LOL action to the storyline.
If you love a sweet, non cheating kind of book.. this one is for you.
I would enjoy seeing more of the characters honestly and see what happened in their lives.
3.5 stars from me
* Recv'd a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review*
You will fall in love with Lila and come to even love her humorous Grandmother who meddled. :) hehehe
This book is about Lila returning home after ten years of being gone; due to receiving a book... and it lead her home. But with reasons that made her leave.. can she make the only man she's ever loved wake up.. and accept them?
Jake is a wonderful man, but stubborn and completely scared. He chooses to push Lila away and now that she's home... can he get her to go away again?
I enjoyed Lila and her determination to make things right. I think she was amazing and a truly wonderful woman!
I loved the intense attraction these two had. It was hot and intense. I loved their friends which brought some LOL action to the storyline.
If you love a sweet, non cheating kind of book.. this one is for you.
I would enjoy seeing more of the characters honestly and see what happened in their lives.
3.5 stars from me
* Recv'd a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review*
October 20, 2014
DECONSTRUCTING LILA by Shannon Leigh is an interesting Contemporary Romance. It's the tale of Lila Gentry and Jake, her estranged husband. Lila has gone back to Texas to restore the old whorehouse,Chisholm Trail, her great-great-grandmother was the madam of in the 1880's and win back her estranged husband.
Filled with sizzling passionate scenes, second chances, history, fear, complications and romance. There is also a subplot of Miss Pru, the madam and Luke Pierce, a rancher told through Miss Pru's journal. There is the added drama of restoring the old whorehouse as well as Jake's illness.
Well written, with a bit of history and lots of passion. You can't help but enjoy this wickedly delicious tale mixed with contemporary and historical romance. I enjoyed the dialogue between the characters, and I think the journey was an added bonus. Well done!
*Received for an honest review from the publisher*
Rating: 4
Heat rating: Hot
Reviewed by: AprilR, courtesy of My Book Addiction and More
Filled with sizzling passionate scenes, second chances, history, fear, complications and romance. There is also a subplot of Miss Pru, the madam and Luke Pierce, a rancher told through Miss Pru's journal. There is the added drama of restoring the old whorehouse as well as Jake's illness.
Well written, with a bit of history and lots of passion. You can't help but enjoy this wickedly delicious tale mixed with contemporary and historical romance. I enjoyed the dialogue between the characters, and I think the journey was an added bonus. Well done!
*Received for an honest review from the publisher*
Rating: 4
Heat rating: Hot
Reviewed by: AprilR, courtesy of My Book Addiction and More
September 25, 2014
This is a great book. I love Shannon Leigh's writing style and the atmosphere she creates.
Even though a lot of it didn't happen on page, I was really happy with Lila's growth. When Lila first gets back into town she has to deal with some leftover self-esteem issues, thinking that the whole town looks down on her, but she doesn't let her insecurity get the best of her. Lila is determined to put the past behind her and move on, hopeful that she and Jake can work it out.
It was refreshing to see that Jake was the one holding back, taking the role typically played out by the heroine. He did get on my nerves a bit by constantly questioning if Lila really knew what she was doing regarding Pru's house. Most of it had to do with him trying to push her away, though.
I also enjoyed Pru and Luke's story, especially the lessons from Pru that preceded each chapter. The Bombshells and their advice made me laugh.
Even though a lot of it didn't happen on page, I was really happy with Lila's growth. When Lila first gets back into town she has to deal with some leftover self-esteem issues, thinking that the whole town looks down on her, but she doesn't let her insecurity get the best of her. Lila is determined to put the past behind her and move on, hopeful that she and Jake can work it out.
It was refreshing to see that Jake was the one holding back, taking the role typically played out by the heroine. He did get on my nerves a bit by constantly questioning if Lila really knew what she was doing regarding Pru's house. Most of it had to do with him trying to push her away, though.
I also enjoyed Pru and Luke's story, especially the lessons from Pru that preceded each chapter. The Bombshells and their advice made me laugh.
September 26, 2014
Lila Gentry moved away ten years ago. No, she was pushed away by her husband, Jake Winters. Jake had cancer and decided pushing her away would be better for her than living with a sick and dying husband. He wanted her to have a better life. Ten years later she's back in town and trying to win back the heart of her husband. Will her push her away again because of his annual cancer screening coming up?
There was so much more happening in this absolutely fantastic story. It flowed smoothly from beginning to end. All the characters were vibrant and each contributed to the story line in some important way. I loved Pru's journal and how the lessons mysteriously seemed to fit with whatever Lila was going through with Jake. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this second chance romance. It was fun and sexy and packed with a wide range of emotions. I look forward to reading more from this very talented author.
Received a copy in exchange for an honest review.
There was so much more happening in this absolutely fantastic story. It flowed smoothly from beginning to end. All the characters were vibrant and each contributed to the story line in some important way. I loved Pru's journal and how the lessons mysteriously seemed to fit with whatever Lila was going through with Jake. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this second chance romance. It was fun and sexy and packed with a wide range of emotions. I look forward to reading more from this very talented author.
Received a copy in exchange for an honest review.
September 22, 2014
I loved the back-story on Lila Gentry and Jake Hunter. That it takes so much time and different life events for them to become a "team" again was a little frustrating. As a reader, I kept thinking is this the moment, but then realized how many more pages were left in the book.
Overall, I enjoyed learning Lila's family history and how it shaped her past relationships and how she developed and learned to overcome her own doubts and fears. I loved, loved, loved the chemistry between Lila and Jake. This was clear from their first interaction in the book.
Jake, overall came across as most hard-headed men, who think they know what is best for everyone, even when people tell them differently. But, he does change his ways after Lila breaks down his fences and life events show him how short and precious 'living in the present' is!
Overall, I enjoyed learning Lila's family history and how it shaped her past relationships and how she developed and learned to overcome her own doubts and fears. I loved, loved, loved the chemistry between Lila and Jake. This was clear from their first interaction in the book.
Jake, overall came across as most hard-headed men, who think they know what is best for everyone, even when people tell them differently. But, he does change his ways after Lila breaks down his fences and life events show him how short and precious 'living in the present' is!
October 14, 2014
On the one hand this is a western contemporary romance but simultaneously there it tells a story of the heroines great-great-grandmother, a madam in the house that Lila is determined to save while at the same time saving her marriage.
I loved Lila a woman who has worked to get her life together and is determined to get what she wants and needs from it. I adored her Granny and the Bombshells. But I wasn’t so thrilled with Jake the hero of this story. Jake assumes he knows what is best and thinks he was being heroic by pushing Lila from his life under the assumption better to hurt her now than later. Even so, this second chance romance has a lot to recommend it.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I loved Lila a woman who has worked to get her life together and is determined to get what she wants and needs from it. I adored her Granny and the Bombshells. But I wasn’t so thrilled with Jake the hero of this story. Jake assumes he knows what is best and thinks he was being heroic by pushing Lila from his life under the assumption better to hurt her now than later. Even so, this second chance romance has a lot to recommend it.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
November 12, 2014
Deconstructing Lila has a bit of an unusual premise. The H&H are actually married as the book starts. I have read plenty of books where they are former lovers getting back together, but I don't think I have ever read any book where they are already married, just not together. I liked the idea, it worked for this story.
I enjoyed the way Lila & Jake came to work together, which of course brought them back together as a couple. Some of the secondary characters in this book are quite fun. The sizzle between Lila & Jake is quite obvious right from the beginning and only gets hotter as the story moves ahead.
This was the first book I have read from Shannon Leigh, I will definitely check out more of her work.
I enjoyed the way Lila & Jake came to work together, which of course brought them back together as a couple. Some of the secondary characters in this book are quite fun. The sizzle between Lila & Jake is quite obvious right from the beginning and only gets hotter as the story moves ahead.
This was the first book I have read from Shannon Leigh, I will definitely check out more of her work.
October 11, 2014
Lila has returned home after being away for ten years. She's come back to stay and renovate an old building. She's also determined to convince her husband to give them another chance. Jake is a wonderful man but he's stubborn as hell and he's also scared to live his life. He pushed her away all those years ago, can he manage to do it again?
I loved Lila's strong determination and will to fight for the man she wants. The characters were well developed. It's nice to read a book where the man is the one struggling to get over his fears and being needy. It's a sweet second chance love story.
I was given a copy by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
I loved Lila's strong determination and will to fight for the man she wants. The characters were well developed. It's nice to read a book where the man is the one struggling to get over his fears and being needy. It's a sweet second chance love story.
I was given a copy by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
October 12, 2014
Small town romance! Lila hasn't been back in town for years, trying to move from difficulties just to return years later feeling, hoping, that her heart and home is where she left it. Jake is the one she left behind, and both are stubborn as the heat from the Texas town. Just because you know what your heart wants doesn't mean that it is easy. And then there is Prudence, Lila's ancestor, of ill repute and a business with a sordid past. Lila has her diary, and her advice crosses the generations. A fun read.
November 11, 2014
I received this from Entangled publishing in exchange for an honest review. I loved this. It was a fun ride. The only thing I really wanted to know was is if Lila and Jake have kids. Other than that this was a great read.
October 24, 2014
full review coming
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