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Tainted Ink #1
Wake Me Up
There are alternate cover editions for this ASIN here and here.
Twenty-two-year old Emma runs from a devastating life. Wanting to escape her demons with the help of her crazy friend Chloe, she travels halfway across the world.
Alone, Emma must make a fresh start in the small town of Chapel Hill, North Carolina. She doesn't let anyone near her, until Aiden.
Aiden gives her a glimpse of what love really is like, but then their little world is shattered when their lives collide and Emma gets caught in the middle.
Will Aiden cross an ocean for Emma?
(This is a stand-alone novel told from dual POV's (both Emma (British) and Aiden (American) in The Tainted Ink Series)
This novel is intended for mature audiences over the age of 18 only. It contains graphic scenes of sex, violence and strong language. I can’t stress that enough.
Twenty-two-year old Emma runs from a devastating life. Wanting to escape her demons with the help of her crazy friend Chloe, she travels halfway across the world.
Alone, Emma must make a fresh start in the small town of Chapel Hill, North Carolina. She doesn't let anyone near her, until Aiden.
Aiden gives her a glimpse of what love really is like, but then their little world is shattered when their lives collide and Emma gets caught in the middle.
Will Aiden cross an ocean for Emma?
(This is a stand-alone novel told from dual POV's (both Emma (British) and Aiden (American) in The Tainted Ink Series)
This novel is intended for mature audiences over the age of 18 only. It contains graphic scenes of sex, violence and strong language. I can’t stress that enough.
374 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 31, 2013
1150 people are currently reading
2927 people want to read
About the author
Michelle Horst
44 books1,620 followersPlease find me under my new profile Michelle Heard >>> https://www.goodreads.com/author/show...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 329 reviews
September 18, 2018
★ 3.5 STARS ★
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Esse livro foi o lançamento que mais esperado por mim neste mês de setembro.
Fiquei bem curiosa ao ler a sinopse, os quotes e teasers que a autora divulgou em suas redes sociais, portanto não tive dúvidas em iniciar logo a leitura.
Eu gostei bastante da Emma e do Aiden. Ambos personagens cativantes, cada um a sua maneira. Consegui me conectar bem com os dois e senti uma empatia enorme pela Emma e tudo o que ela passou/suportou.
Muitos podem achá-la fraca e até mesmo covarde, mas é difícil e muito complicado você julgar uma situação sem realmente tentar pelo menos compreeendê-la. É fácil dizer que suas ações e atitudes seriam diferentes sendo que a sua criação foi completamente oposta da realidade que ela enfrentou. A Adriana de hoje agiria diferente, mas a Adriana nos calçados da Emma? Tenho minhas dúvidas...
O relacionamento deles na minha opinião se desenrolou de maneira rápida. Acho que devido a situação da Emma e seu passado, eu gostaria de ter visto um desenvolvimento mais lento.
Gostei muito do tema que foi abordado aqui, ainda mais porque há um tempo atrás vi uma reportagem justamente envolvendo esse assunto.
A história é contada em povs duplos e achei que o andamento da trama seguiu um ritmo um pouco acelerado.
E confesso que eu esperava que esse livro me emocionasse mais. Há sim momentos difícieis e bem dolorosos, de deixar o coração apertado. Porém, não me tocaram de maneira profunda.
The Ocean Between Us foi uma leitura bem gostosa e agradável. Não consegui parar de ler enquanto não chegasse ao fim. E embora tenha sentido falta de algumas coisas, essa história valeu a pena e eu gostei bastante!
“For the longest time, half of me was missin’. Then you walked into my life with your beautiful smile and unbreakable will, and the hole was gone.”
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Esse livro foi o lançamento que mais esperado por mim neste mês de setembro.
Fiquei bem curiosa ao ler a sinopse, os quotes e teasers que a autora divulgou em suas redes sociais, portanto não tive dúvidas em iniciar logo a leitura.
Eu gostei bastante da Emma e do Aiden. Ambos personagens cativantes, cada um a sua maneira. Consegui me conectar bem com os dois e senti uma empatia enorme pela Emma e tudo o que ela passou/suportou.
Muitos podem achá-la fraca e até mesmo covarde, mas é difícil e muito complicado você julgar uma situação sem realmente tentar pelo menos compreeendê-la. É fácil dizer que suas ações e atitudes seriam diferentes sendo que a sua criação foi completamente oposta da realidade que ela enfrentou. A Adriana de hoje agiria diferente, mas a Adriana nos calçados da Emma? Tenho minhas dúvidas...
O relacionamento deles na minha opinião se desenrolou de maneira rápida. Acho que devido a situação da Emma e seu passado, eu gostaria de ter visto um desenvolvimento mais lento.
“When I’m standing on the beach, and I look at the ocean. I know you’ll be on the other side along with my whole heart.”
Gostei muito do tema que foi abordado aqui, ainda mais porque há um tempo atrás vi uma reportagem justamente envolvendo esse assunto.
A história é contada em povs duplos e achei que o andamento da trama seguiu um ritmo um pouco acelerado.
E confesso que eu esperava que esse livro me emocionasse mais. Há sim momentos difícieis e bem dolorosos, de deixar o coração apertado. Porém, não me tocaram de maneira profunda.
The Ocean Between Us foi uma leitura bem gostosa e agradável. Não consegui parar de ler enquanto não chegasse ao fim. E embora tenha sentido falta de algumas coisas, essa história valeu a pena e eu gostei bastante!
“You’re my heaven, Emma.”
September 15, 2018
MY REVIEW: can also be found on my blog:
➽ KITTY KATS CRAZY ABOUT BOOKS
For the longest time, half of me was missin; Then you walked into my life with your beautiful smile and unbreakable will, and the hole was gone.
THE OCEAN BETWEEN US: A full length, Southern Heroes Romance Novel by Michelle Heard. Spoken in ‘Dual Perspectives’ In this we meet Aiden and Emma.
We’re first introduced to Emma who literally lives her life in fear, within a gilded cage of her mothers making, an alcoholic that rules Emma with a forked tongue and a stepfather who turns a blind eye on the goings on in the household.
Babes. You're going to fail. You can't go around wasting your time on things like friends, and those pathetic books you read.
Emma has all but given up on humanity, closed herself off to human contact, her only constant in her life is her best friend who helps her get a passport and a study visa for six months, and aides her to escape the toxic claws of her mother.
Life has taught me that the people who are supposed to protect you are the ones who will hurt you the most.
It doesn't take long for Emma to reach breaking point, like a thief in the night she runs, crossing an ocean from Africa to America to experience life.
Emma is well over her head in America, she's smack center in a whole new lifestyle, new dangers have a way of sucking her into its orbit, thinking she was escaping the worst that had happened to her under her mother's ruling thumb has her reeling from the darker side of what can happen to unsuspecting females in America.
Aiden is shrouded in secrets, he's not all he seems, a student attending the same school as her, a fierce attraction occurs instantly between these two, he tries everything in his power to keep her safe, to protect her.
I've never had such a strong reaction to a woman before. The second I laid eyes on her I knew my life was about to change.
This was one of my highly most anticipated books for September, be it the cover, the author, the synopsis I was wanting to read this in a heartbeat. And in a heartbeat I did. I devoured this, sleep is only for the dead, I read this in record time, couldn't out it down. didn't want to put it down. Just when I thought this was going to be a sugary sweet read a total game changer is thrown into the storyline and like the suck puppy I am from that point onwards life outside this book ceased to exist.
* Teaser used is off the authors facebook page *
April 2, 2020
A romantic action hero
Emma is abused at home by her alcoholic mother most of her life. Even after turning 18, she under the thumb of her mother until she turns 21 and gets some part of her trust fund though her mother still has to approve purchases. She has learned over time that it is not worth it to stand up to her Mom because the beatings are worse when she tries.
When she turns 21 she gets a student Visa and escapes the US with the help of a friend and meets Aiden and a group of his friends. Aiden is her roommate and she develops feelings for him. He is a true hero to her in many ways while the people he hangs with are not good people.
It is a good story and hot romance. I like the hero who was quite a southern gentleman. Emma is not shown as weak, she is strong because of her background but she does need Aiden.
Blog|Goodreads|Facebook|Instagram|Twitter|BookBub
Emma is abused at home by her alcoholic mother most of her life. Even after turning 18, she under the thumb of her mother until she turns 21 and gets some part of her trust fund though her mother still has to approve purchases. She has learned over time that it is not worth it to stand up to her Mom because the beatings are worse when she tries.
When she turns 21 she gets a student Visa and escapes the US with the help of a friend and meets Aiden and a group of his friends. Aiden is her roommate and she develops feelings for him. He is a true hero to her in many ways while the people he hangs with are not good people.
It is a good story and hot romance. I like the hero who was quite a southern gentleman. Emma is not shown as weak, she is strong because of her background but she does need Aiden.
Blog|Goodreads|Facebook|Instagram|Twitter|BookBub
February 8, 2017
WAKE ME UP is FREE!!!
Amazon US: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00GDOP3NQ
Amazon UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B00GDOP3NQ
"If i had wings I'd fly, I'd soar on high where only eagles dare I'd let them rip, I'd let them tear, untill all that remained was me bare."
This book was definitely a pleasant surprise! I didn't know what I was getting into when I started reading it, and I loved every minute of it :)
My Emma: 22 years old. British. Virgin.
My Aiden: 27 years old. Southern boy. undercover detective. Fighter.
Emma ran away from home in England to chapel hill to escape her mother. Throughout her life She did not lived, and now she wants to experience new things, starting with getting sloshed and one night stand of shagging. She met Aiden and sparks were flying.
It's been two years since he held a woman and it didn't bother him until Emma. But, he is not cooperating with her plan, he is too good, he keep an eye on her all night while she gets drunk and takes her to his apartment. When they get there a big surprise waiting for them both! Because of identity confusion, Emma and Aidan are now roommates! Things sure are getting interesting :D
"I open my mouth to speak and he leans in closer, pressing me lightly into the tiles. The words get lost in my throat, and i tighen my hold on his shirt. "Be carful what you ask of me, Emma. I'm trying real hard here."
"Emma Walker. I can't let her leave until I've figured out why i don't want her to leave."
Aidan ... *Sigh*
This bloke is Perfect. He is her rock, He is patient with her, he cares for her, he understands her, he listens to her, he sees her, he stand beside her and not in front of her. He's just the whole package. I fell in love with him Instantly. It was hard not to.
"It's the longest i've ever taken to make coffe, but i didn't want it to get cold. I place her mug a few inches from me. This way she has to come closer."
I loved the combination of British and American language, all the different words and the fact that they used Google to translate some of the words .. it was cute :D
"I scroll down the long list of words, taking in a few as I look for 'French letter' and then I laugh. "Really? Where do y'all get these words from? Why not just call it a condom?" I keep scrolling down until I find 'rumpy, pumpy' "Sexual intercourse." I'm struggling not to laugh. I have a one track mind, because all I'm thinking is the course I'd like to inter with her, sexually."
"She makes me feel Invincible."
Emma Went through mental abuse by her drunk mother. She's a very complex character. She's weak, trying to avoid confrontation and pleasing everyone. She doesn't know what love is. She doesn't think she can be loved. Her mother certainly did a number on her. She Screwed with her head completely. Imagine what it's like to live your whole life in fear. BUT .. I will not lie .. there were times I wanted to get into my Kindle and shake her.
"You okay?" he asked gentl. "Why are you so nice?" I sniffle even more, and wipe frustrated at my cheeks. "You're crying because i'm nice?" He asked confused. "No .. yes. Both. You're holding me. You've been so .. nice since we've met. people aren't supposed to be nice."
She formed a certain patterns over the years to avoid conflicts with her mother, and now it's very hard for her to break free from her "normal" behavior she developed. Aidan tries to teach her how normal people live and behave. It was not easy, and he was very sensitive and delicate with her. Like i said, Perfect.
When Aidan Take Emma to one of his fightings, something happens (I was so proud of her! Finally she showed some fire) that caused him to blow his cover and tell her he is a cop. he investigates the disappearances of girls who are missing in their area by a group of students that he mingle with and are shoiwng interest in Emma.
Their relationship develops quite fast, with all that they are roommates and the instant attraction between them. Aidan try to make clear that she is sort of taken.
"I don't care about being in public any more, or how she might feel about it. I slip my hands into her hair, pull her face to mine and i kiss her, not like i've been kissing her the last past few days. No quick brushes of hot air. I crush her lips until she opens them for me, and then i fall. Dammit, it feels heavenly to fall into her. I drop my hand to her back, drawing her body tightly against mine, and i let her sweetness fill my mouth."
Their first time was .. Awkward .. BUT I'll let you guys read it for yourselfs .. lol
When both work out their dispute, they become a couple :D
"Love is such a petty thing, Aiden. It destroys." His grip on me tightens. "Wait. Let me finish. What I feel for you goes way beyond that petty word. I'm consumed by you. I feel defensive of you. I desire you." His eyes caress my face, and follow the tears that I can't keep back any more. "Love is really such a petty word to describe what I feel. Don't ever ask me to say it."
"Love? You call her love?"
"Too much? I ask.
He nods. "She has a name, use it."
He lets me go, and i wink at him before turning back to Katia, she-who-has-a-name, the one whom i shall not call love again. I roll my eyes. Who would've thought Aiden would be jealous of a woman?"
When Emma tries to help Aiden with his investigation, things go wrong and her Safety is in Aiden hands.
I had a problem with the . After it happened the issue was dropped. I understand that she suppressing things .. but still .. I expected more attention to the Issue. This is one of the reasons I lowered a star. I felt that important incidents that occurred didn't get the treatment they deserved. The second reason was Emma. She was too weak. I expected at least at the end that she will stand up for herself and not hide behind Aiden. I understand that he is her savior throughout the whole book, but still .. There were incidents in which she surprised me with her composure and when she finally spoke and expresses an opinion. But it was not enough. I wanted more.
"For the longest time half of me was missing. Then that night-" I push her back so i can see her face. Tears roll down her cheeks, "That night we met and you kissed me, i just fell into you. You walked in and the hole was gone. I need to take care of you. I need to touch you. I need to see you. You have to give us a chance," I beg. I'm begging.
When tragedy Struck, Emma had to return to England and to deal with her demons .. Is Aidan will Give up on Emma or chase after her until the end of the world and fight for their love?
This I will let you read for yourselfs!
I loved Aiden family and Chloe & Zac ! Both were good friends who supported them throughout the book. I really want to read about them in future books :)
Ohh and I loved Emma's playlist! The songs & Lyrics the Author uses in the book are my favorites :D
"Did you know eagles mate for life?" Her eyes are sparkling from all the laughter. "Yes." "I want to make you laugh. I want to make you happy," I say, and she smiles wide. "You do make me happy." "For the rest of your life," I finish. "I want you to be my eagle."
"Your eyes, they shine so bright, I wanna save that light. I can't escape this now, Unless you show me how."
Amazon US: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00GDOP3NQ
Amazon UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B00GDOP3NQ
"If i had wings I'd fly, I'd soar on high where only eagles dare I'd let them rip, I'd let them tear, untill all that remained was me bare."
This book was definitely a pleasant surprise! I didn't know what I was getting into when I started reading it, and I loved every minute of it :)
My Emma: 22 years old. British. Virgin.
My Aiden: 27 years old. Southern boy. undercover detective. Fighter.
Emma ran away from home in England to chapel hill to escape her mother. Throughout her life She did not lived, and now she wants to experience new things, starting with getting sloshed and one night stand of shagging. She met Aiden and sparks were flying.
It's been two years since he held a woman and it didn't bother him until Emma. But, he is not cooperating with her plan, he is too good, he keep an eye on her all night while she gets drunk and takes her to his apartment. When they get there a big surprise waiting for them both! Because of identity confusion, Emma and Aidan are now roommates! Things sure are getting interesting :D
"I open my mouth to speak and he leans in closer, pressing me lightly into the tiles. The words get lost in my throat, and i tighen my hold on his shirt. "Be carful what you ask of me, Emma. I'm trying real hard here."
"Emma Walker. I can't let her leave until I've figured out why i don't want her to leave."
Aidan ... *Sigh*
This bloke is Perfect. He is her rock, He is patient with her, he cares for her, he understands her, he listens to her, he sees her, he stand beside her and not in front of her. He's just the whole package. I fell in love with him Instantly. It was hard not to.
"It's the longest i've ever taken to make coffe, but i didn't want it to get cold. I place her mug a few inches from me. This way she has to come closer."
I loved the combination of British and American language, all the different words and the fact that they used Google to translate some of the words .. it was cute :D
"I scroll down the long list of words, taking in a few as I look for 'French letter' and then I laugh. "Really? Where do y'all get these words from? Why not just call it a condom?" I keep scrolling down until I find 'rumpy, pumpy' "Sexual intercourse." I'm struggling not to laugh. I have a one track mind, because all I'm thinking is the course I'd like to inter with her, sexually."
"She makes me feel Invincible."
Emma Went through mental abuse by her drunk mother. She's a very complex character. She's weak, trying to avoid confrontation and pleasing everyone. She doesn't know what love is. She doesn't think she can be loved. Her mother certainly did a number on her. She Screwed with her head completely. Imagine what it's like to live your whole life in fear. BUT .. I will not lie .. there were times I wanted to get into my Kindle and shake her.
"You okay?" he asked gentl. "Why are you so nice?" I sniffle even more, and wipe frustrated at my cheeks. "You're crying because i'm nice?" He asked confused. "No .. yes. Both. You're holding me. You've been so .. nice since we've met. people aren't supposed to be nice."
She formed a certain patterns over the years to avoid conflicts with her mother, and now it's very hard for her to break free from her "normal" behavior she developed. Aidan tries to teach her how normal people live and behave. It was not easy, and he was very sensitive and delicate with her. Like i said, Perfect.
When Aidan Take Emma to one of his fightings, something happens (I was so proud of her! Finally she showed some fire) that caused him to blow his cover and tell her he is a cop. he investigates the disappearances of girls who are missing in their area by a group of students that he mingle with and are shoiwng interest in Emma.
Their relationship develops quite fast, with all that they are roommates and the instant attraction between them. Aidan try to make clear that she is sort of taken.
"I don't care about being in public any more, or how she might feel about it. I slip my hands into her hair, pull her face to mine and i kiss her, not like i've been kissing her the last past few days. No quick brushes of hot air. I crush her lips until she opens them for me, and then i fall. Dammit, it feels heavenly to fall into her. I drop my hand to her back, drawing her body tightly against mine, and i let her sweetness fill my mouth."
Their first time was .. Awkward .. BUT I'll let you guys read it for yourselfs .. lol
When both work out their dispute, they become a couple :D
"Love is such a petty thing, Aiden. It destroys." His grip on me tightens. "Wait. Let me finish. What I feel for you goes way beyond that petty word. I'm consumed by you. I feel defensive of you. I desire you." His eyes caress my face, and follow the tears that I can't keep back any more. "Love is really such a petty word to describe what I feel. Don't ever ask me to say it."
"Love? You call her love?"
"Too much? I ask.
He nods. "She has a name, use it."
He lets me go, and i wink at him before turning back to Katia, she-who-has-a-name, the one whom i shall not call love again. I roll my eyes. Who would've thought Aiden would be jealous of a woman?"
When Emma tries to help Aiden with his investigation, things go wrong and her Safety is in Aiden hands.
I had a problem with the . After it happened the issue was dropped. I understand that she suppressing things .. but still .. I expected more attention to the Issue. This is one of the reasons I lowered a star. I felt that important incidents that occurred didn't get the treatment they deserved. The second reason was Emma. She was too weak. I expected at least at the end that she will stand up for herself and not hide behind Aiden. I understand that he is her savior throughout the whole book, but still .. There were incidents in which she surprised me with her composure and when she finally spoke and expresses an opinion. But it was not enough. I wanted more.
"For the longest time half of me was missing. Then that night-" I push her back so i can see her face. Tears roll down her cheeks, "That night we met and you kissed me, i just fell into you. You walked in and the hole was gone. I need to take care of you. I need to touch you. I need to see you. You have to give us a chance," I beg. I'm begging.
When tragedy Struck, Emma had to return to England and to deal with her demons .. Is Aidan will Give up on Emma or chase after her until the end of the world and fight for their love?
This I will let you read for yourselfs!
I loved Aiden family and Chloe & Zac ! Both were good friends who supported them throughout the book. I really want to read about them in future books :)
Ohh and I loved Emma's playlist! The songs & Lyrics the Author uses in the book are my favorites :D
"Did you know eagles mate for life?" Her eyes are sparkling from all the laughter. "Yes." "I want to make you laugh. I want to make you happy," I say, and she smiles wide. "You do make me happy." "For the rest of your life," I finish. "I want you to be my eagle."
"Your eyes, they shine so bright, I wanna save that light. I can't escape this now, Unless you show me how."
September 23, 2018
I just couldn't stand this book after I read one or two chapters, then I skimmed & scanned to see it even got worse for me. Now, my rating & review is based on my intolerance to the book.
The heroine is abused by her mother constantly. It is both physical & psychological abuse. She submits to her as she has learnt if she submits, the abuse lasts shorter.
At the age of 21, she runs away from home, which is in South Africa, to the U.S.A, with a student visa. There she meets a hot guy on her first day and as she needs new experiences, she decides to give her virginity to him. She offers him a one-night stand and I start yelling at her in my mind: "Come on girl, have some common sense, you have just met him! What if he is a psycho?"
From then on, I just couldn't stand the book or the heroine. The hero is really a good guy and I liked him but even he couldn't save the book for me.
Apart from getting angry at her stupidity, this action of hers (throwing herself at him) also killed the romance for me. I need some attraction, chemistry, some build-up, some pull & push and sexual tension in a romance book. That's why, when the heroine threw herself at the hero in the first few minutes, I lost all my interest in their romance, as well. So easy peasy...
By the way, their first time didn't happen that night but when it happened, it was a complete fiasco (because of her)!
As for safety, there is no cheating but the book also contains sexual assault/rape. See why I am so furious? As if she didn't suffer enough in the hands of her own mother! Nope... not for me... That was cruel!
The writing is in dual point of view but it is too simple and it doesn't make me feel.
I wouldn't recommend this book at all.
The heroine is abused by her mother constantly. It is both physical & psychological abuse. She submits to her as she has learnt if she submits, the abuse lasts shorter.
At the age of 21, she runs away from home, which is in South Africa, to the U.S.A, with a student visa. There she meets a hot guy on her first day and as she needs new experiences, she decides to give her virginity to him. She offers him a one-night stand and I start yelling at her in my mind: "Come on girl, have some common sense, you have just met him! What if he is a psycho?"
From then on, I just couldn't stand the book or the heroine. The hero is really a good guy and I liked him but even he couldn't save the book for me.
Apart from getting angry at her stupidity, this action of hers (throwing herself at him) also killed the romance for me. I need some attraction, chemistry, some build-up, some pull & push and sexual tension in a romance book. That's why, when the heroine threw herself at the hero in the first few minutes, I lost all my interest in their romance, as well. So easy peasy...
By the way, their first time didn't happen that night but when it happened, it was a complete fiasco (because of her)!
As for safety, there is no cheating but the book also contains sexual assault/rape. See why I am so furious? As if she didn't suffer enough in the hands of her own mother! Nope... not for me... That was cruel!
The writing is in dual point of view but it is too simple and it doesn't make me feel.
I wouldn't recommend this book at all.
September 23, 2018
3.5 stars
Please note the author's warning about scenes of violence!
Amazing hero; a heroine, who gained strength.
Safe (apart from assault scenes).
Some plot holes, but overall a touching book with a good message.
Please note the author's warning about scenes of violence!
Amazing hero; a heroine, who gained strength.
Safe (apart from assault scenes).
Some plot holes, but overall a touching book with a good message.
January 17, 2023
I really waffled with how to rate this, and throughout reading the book I went back and forth on loving it, liking it, and needing more to go on. Emma has been abused her entire life by her alcoholic mother. He stepfather is a crooked policeman, and as pathetic as they come. So when Emma turns 21 and finally has limited access to her trust fund, she flees her mothers mansion, leaving South Africa far behind and settling in North Carolina with a student visa. She’s finally free.
She meets Aiden her first night in town, along with some of his very unsavory friends. They click right away, but she makes a fool of herself after getting drunk for the first time and having to be taken care of. Turns out, there was a mixup and she’s Aiden’s new roommate. One that he’s very drawn to and she to him. She learns that he’s undercover, investigating the very people he surrounds himself with, and she’s caught in the middle.
What I struggled with the most was that while the feelings and lovely declarations were present, the emotions fell really flat for me. I needed more depth to consider this a 4-5 star read. It was like the characters were going through the motions sometimes without processing their feelings in the moment. The relationships felt very two dimensional for me, and so that was a bit of a let down. Though I do think that their relationship was lovely, and I’m thrilled that she was able to get the last word in with her witch of a mother.
She meets Aiden her first night in town, along with some of his very unsavory friends. They click right away, but she makes a fool of herself after getting drunk for the first time and having to be taken care of. Turns out, there was a mixup and she’s Aiden’s new roommate. One that he’s very drawn to and she to him. She learns that he’s undercover, investigating the very people he surrounds himself with, and she’s caught in the middle.
What I struggled with the most was that while the feelings and lovely declarations were present, the emotions fell really flat for me. I needed more depth to consider this a 4-5 star read. It was like the characters were going through the motions sometimes without processing their feelings in the moment. The relationships felt very two dimensional for me, and so that was a bit of a let down. Though I do think that their relationship was lovely, and I’m thrilled that she was able to get the last word in with her witch of a mother.
Want to read
June 8, 2019🎁 FREE on Amazon today (6/8/2019)! 🎁
Read
September 20, 2018Too much everything. Too much drama, too much angst, too much happened too fast. This was a DNF for me.
September 19, 2018
4 STARS
'Life has taught me that the people who are supposed to protect you are the ones who will hurt you the most.'
This is my first book from this author and I really enjoy it!It was a beautiful story,emotional and sweet.Aiden and Emma had amazing chemistry, I adored them.
Emma moves away from her controlling abusive mother.She meets Aiden and her whole life changes.Aiden is sweet and protective!I really liked him from the beginning!
This is a great read, it's fast paced and the story line is interesting.
'Life has taught me that the people who are supposed to protect you are the ones who will hurt you the most.'
This is my first book from this author and I really enjoy it!It was a beautiful story,emotional and sweet.Aiden and Emma had amazing chemistry, I adored them.
Emma moves away from her controlling abusive mother.She meets Aiden and her whole life changes.Aiden is sweet and protective!I really liked him from the beginning!
This is a great read, it's fast paced and the story line is interesting.
November 21, 2020
This book took an old trope and made it new again. Emma crosses the ocean to get away from her abusive mother, and she immediately meets her roommate, a handsome college student named Aiden. Right off the bat, this is different from other books like this, because while he is falling for her, he’s keeping a secret. He’s actually an undercover detective who’s been assigned to follow some pretty psychotic college students who are working for a .
The author perfectly blends suspense and romance in this book, and the conclusion is quite satisfying. 4 stars.
The author perfectly blends suspense and romance in this book, and the conclusion is quite satisfying. 4 stars.
September 23, 2018
This was my first read from this author. It was a beautifully written book that gave me all the feels. I couldn’t put it down.
September 17, 2018
Books that make me feel as much as this did are books that I’ll remember forever. The Ocean Between Us was more than I ever expected it to be and I love it!
ARC received in exchange for an honest review
When I read the info on this book I knew I had to read it. Having read this authors books in the past I knew I was in for a treat and to say I got more than I expected would be an understatement because I for sure wasn’t expecting this story.
Aiden, this guy is outta this world. He’s gorgeous, charming and caring. He has a loving nature and it shines throughout this book. He’s patient and kind and is willing to do anything for anyone he loves. He’s a family man through and through and man, he just melts your heart. His protectiveness is one of the main reasons I love this guy. He’s everything.
Emma has grown up surrounded by shitty people treating her the way a kid should never be treated. It’s heartbreaking and horrible to read through those bits but it makes the story more real. Emma is a beautiful, shy and when she finally learns to be she’s strong and independent. When this woman finally has had enough she breaks and blossoms into a woman that won’t take that shit anymore and I’m so damn proud of her.
Oh and let’s not forget about their sexy times. At times we’re embarrasing but mostly damn freaking sexy.
Their story is filled with sad and heartbreaking moments but with those sad moments come happiness and damn, it’s so good to see them happy.
This book is addicting, I couldn’t put down my kindle until I reached the very last page. It’s been an absolute pleasure reading this beauty.
The Ocean Between us is Dark, Raw and Gritty. It’s hard to read at times but pushing through those times is well worth the heartbreak.
ARC received in exchange for an honest review
When I read the info on this book I knew I had to read it. Having read this authors books in the past I knew I was in for a treat and to say I got more than I expected would be an understatement because I for sure wasn’t expecting this story.
Aiden, this guy is outta this world. He’s gorgeous, charming and caring. He has a loving nature and it shines throughout this book. He’s patient and kind and is willing to do anything for anyone he loves. He’s a family man through and through and man, he just melts your heart. His protectiveness is one of the main reasons I love this guy. He’s everything.
Emma has grown up surrounded by shitty people treating her the way a kid should never be treated. It’s heartbreaking and horrible to read through those bits but it makes the story more real. Emma is a beautiful, shy and when she finally learns to be she’s strong and independent. When this woman finally has had enough she breaks and blossoms into a woman that won’t take that shit anymore and I’m so damn proud of her.
Oh and let’s not forget about their sexy times. At times we’re embarrasing but mostly damn freaking sexy.
Their story is filled with sad and heartbreaking moments but with those sad moments come happiness and damn, it’s so good to see them happy.
This book is addicting, I couldn’t put down my kindle until I reached the very last page. It’s been an absolute pleasure reading this beauty.
The Ocean Between us is Dark, Raw and Gritty. It’s hard to read at times but pushing through those times is well worth the heartbreak.
May 5, 2019
2.5 stars
Emma has dealt with years of mental abuse and she has finally had enough. With the help of her best friend she flees to the USA and to school. Once in the US she decides on one night of letting go, before she puts herself to work with school and making sure she can stay. When she meets the sexy Aiden she offers one night of sex NSA. A little to much to drink she gets sicks as they go to her apartment.....THEIR apartment!!!! Yep a mix up by the landlord has made them roommates.
In over her head, her one night of letting loose has put her in the cross hairs of danger. Throw in a man in Aiden who is hiding secrets of his own. Underground fighting. It leads to more heartache and pain for Emma.
This was OK. Nothing wow, the abuse was bad. What happens to her later is worse, yet had near zero affect on her making me lose interest. The ending was a little too much for me. I did like the characters I just didnt fall in love with the romance or the twist.
Emma has dealt with years of mental abuse and she has finally had enough. With the help of her best friend she flees to the USA and to school. Once in the US she decides on one night of letting go, before she puts herself to work with school and making sure she can stay. When she meets the sexy Aiden she offers one night of sex NSA. A little to much to drink she gets sicks as they go to her apartment.....THEIR apartment!!!! Yep a mix up by the landlord has made them roommates.
In over her head, her one night of letting loose has put her in the cross hairs of danger. Throw in a man in Aiden who is hiding secrets of his own. Underground fighting. It leads to more heartache and pain for Emma.
This was OK. Nothing wow, the abuse was bad. What happens to her later is worse, yet had near zero affect on her making me lose interest. The ending was a little too much for me. I did like the characters I just didnt fall in love with the romance or the twist.
September 17, 2018
THE OCEAN BETWEEN US was a fantastic book although it had a rather difficult scene to read. I honestly could have done without the details, but it is what it is. I still loved the story and the characters. It just took some time to work through the emotions of that one scene before I could move on. There is a warning at the beginning that states the book contains graphic violence, so please proceed with caution. But I would love for you to proceed!! Otherwise you will be missing out on a great story.
I had an immediate love for Aiden and Emma, and after all they went through, my love for them was stronger in the end. They had such a wonderful relationship from the moment they met and it continued on throughout the story. They flowed flawlessly together and was a match to be reckoned with.
This was my first time reading a book by Heard and it definitely won't be the last. You can tell she is a romantic at heart as it plays out on the pages. She’s good at it. Darn good. And after I am done here, I am off to search out her other books.
Romance, pain, and lots of emotion, this story tore at me in such an earth shattering way. I will forever love these characters and look forward to what the next books and the next characters do to my heart. If it is anything like what Aiden and Emma did, I will be one happy reader. 4.5 Stars! (When leaving reviews on sites such as Goodreads, I always round to the next highest star!)
I had an immediate love for Aiden and Emma, and after all they went through, my love for them was stronger in the end. They had such a wonderful relationship from the moment they met and it continued on throughout the story. They flowed flawlessly together and was a match to be reckoned with.
This was my first time reading a book by Heard and it definitely won't be the last. You can tell she is a romantic at heart as it plays out on the pages. She’s good at it. Darn good. And after I am done here, I am off to search out her other books.
Romance, pain, and lots of emotion, this story tore at me in such an earth shattering way. I will forever love these characters and look forward to what the next books and the next characters do to my heart. If it is anything like what Aiden and Emma did, I will be one happy reader. 4.5 Stars! (When leaving reviews on sites such as Goodreads, I always round to the next highest star!)
May 28, 2015
5 Around the World and Back Stars
This was truly a beautiful, emotional read. The writing was beyond perfection and the words simply touched my heart !
Emma runs away from her depressing life and her mean mother to live a life of freedom. She travels all the way to America, to cherish and experience all the adventures and freedom in her life. There she meets Aiden who happens to be her roommate too. She had decided to just hook up with some American bloke for one-night stand, but Aiden becomes everthing she ever wanted. He shows her the real meaning of Love. The chemistry between the two of them was so amazing it captured me completely.
The story builds up amazingly. it was a face paced book and it had some great twists and turns that made it more more interesting and page turner.
You really need to read this book now, i am not disclosing the story any further. Just go, grab this book and read the hell outta it !!
Michelle Horst has done a magnificent job once again. I am her official, permanent, Till death do us part Fan LOL
:
The words were soo refreshing so loving, it just makes you fall in love with the character. I loved the character of Emma and Aiden, and the bond they had.
I would also love to read about Chloe in Michelle Horst's next book Chloe - A Tainted Ink Novella
Amazing read !
Recommended to everyone!
This was truly a beautiful, emotional read. The writing was beyond perfection and the words simply touched my heart !
Emma runs away from her depressing life and her mean mother to live a life of freedom. She travels all the way to America, to cherish and experience all the adventures and freedom in her life. There she meets Aiden who happens to be her roommate too. She had decided to just hook up with some American bloke for one-night stand, but Aiden becomes everthing she ever wanted. He shows her the real meaning of Love. The chemistry between the two of them was so amazing it captured me completely.
The story builds up amazingly. it was a face paced book and it had some great twists and turns that made it more more interesting and page turner.
“If I had wings I would fly,
I'd soar on high where only eagles dare
I'd let them rip, I'd let them tear,
until all that remained was me bare.”
You really need to read this book now, i am not disclosing the story any further. Just go, grab this book and read the hell outta it !!
Michelle Horst has done a magnificent job once again. I am her official, permanent, Till death do us part Fan LOL
:
The words were soo refreshing so loving, it just makes you fall in love with the character. I loved the character of Emma and Aiden, and the bond they had.
I would also love to read about Chloe in Michelle Horst's next book Chloe - A Tainted Ink Novella
“It's the easiest thing in the world to be kind to someone, to show love, to forgive. You are born with this instinct - it should be your first reaction. NOT violence, anger and hatred! That is something we are taught, it's a Choice You Make.”
Amazing read !
Recommended to everyone!
October 10, 2018
Ever since I saw the teaser for The Ocean Between Us by Michelle Heard, I wanted to read it. You know that feeling you get when you read book that impresses you greatly. Yep, I found it The Ocean Between us. Man, this book literary burned me alive. Every facet, every inch and every moment of this book drowned me deeply to a story that made me alive. The Ocean Between Us is a story of light and darkness. The Ocean Between Us is a story of pain. The Ocean Between Us is a story that will turn your heart into dust. Michelle Heard absolutely captures me in a romance that tantalized my soul. The enticing words. The dazzling characters. The poignant yet dark story. It moved me. Heart. Body. Soul.
The Ocean Between Us brings you into a world full of emotion and love. A brilliant story that will creep into your heart and bring you to the brink. Nail Biting. Gut Wrenching. Mind Blowing. The Ocean Between is a angsty suspense romance with a thrilling ride. A psychological romance that will take your mind on a merry go round. My soul exploded. My mind entranced. Michelle Heard’s writing paints a colourful and intriguing way with words that will make you feel and bleed. Every scene enraptures you, Wow, Michelle Heard wrote a book that has your heart racing. The Ocean Between Us delves into the strength and perseverance of the human spirit. Delves deep into a story of survival. Delves deep into a passionate and sweet love story that made me smile.
Your heart will be touched because of Emma and Aiden. Ahh, I swooned so hard. I totally smiled so much while reading about Emma and Aiden. Those two stole my air. Those two brought warmth to my soul. So much love affection between, So much easy chemistry between them. Ahh, it resonated. Emma is strength. A South African girl with pain and suffering on her but yet she still loves with her whole heart. I ached with her. I felt her feelings more. My heart broke for her. All I wanted to do was give a big hug. I do not normally read a book with a detective involved but Aiden changed that. I adored Aiden. A southern gentleman with a heart of gold. He was protective, sweet and gentle. Absolutely made me smile.
The Ocean Between Us is a soul rending story you have to read. A story that will never disappoint.
ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review.
The Ocean Between Us brings you into a world full of emotion and love. A brilliant story that will creep into your heart and bring you to the brink. Nail Biting. Gut Wrenching. Mind Blowing. The Ocean Between is a angsty suspense romance with a thrilling ride. A psychological romance that will take your mind on a merry go round. My soul exploded. My mind entranced. Michelle Heard’s writing paints a colourful and intriguing way with words that will make you feel and bleed. Every scene enraptures you, Wow, Michelle Heard wrote a book that has your heart racing. The Ocean Between Us delves into the strength and perseverance of the human spirit. Delves deep into a story of survival. Delves deep into a passionate and sweet love story that made me smile.
Your heart will be touched because of Emma and Aiden. Ahh, I swooned so hard. I totally smiled so much while reading about Emma and Aiden. Those two stole my air. Those two brought warmth to my soul. So much love affection between, So much easy chemistry between them. Ahh, it resonated. Emma is strength. A South African girl with pain and suffering on her but yet she still loves with her whole heart. I ached with her. I felt her feelings more. My heart broke for her. All I wanted to do was give a big hug. I do not normally read a book with a detective involved but Aiden changed that. I adored Aiden. A southern gentleman with a heart of gold. He was protective, sweet and gentle. Absolutely made me smile.
The Ocean Between Us is a soul rending story you have to read. A story that will never disappoint.
ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review.
September 19, 2018
Loved this book very much!! It was romantic, emotional and intense. It was a real page turner. It had be hooked from page one, it was so hard to put down. It's a very exciting and fast paced story.
This book was given to me at my request and I provided this review voluntarily.
This book was given to me at my request and I provided this review voluntarily.
September 18, 2018
This review was originally posted on (un)Conventional Bookworms
*I received a free copy of [title] from [publisher] via Author. This has in no way influenced my voluntary review, which is honest and unbiased *The Ocean Between Us dealt with quite a few very dark themes, and some of the things that happened made me cry with both sadness and anger. However, there was so much sweet to counteract the bad!
Story:
The Ocean Between us started with showing me that Emma had the childhood from hell! With a mother who abused her, both verbally and physically, she felt trapped. In a life she didn't want. In a house where she wasn't welcome. And in her mind, where she had started to believe everything her mom told her she was or wasn't. Until one day she packed her bags and left South Africa for the US.
Aiden was one of those characters that seemed dangerous on the surface, but who was wholesome and real beneath. I loved how he and Em got to know each other in The Ocean Between Us. Of course, nothing was easy - and the suspense was well done. The atagonists were the kind of villains everybody hate, but they weren't flat or without interest anyway.
The darkness in The Ocean Between Us was very dark. And it didn't come only from Emma's past, there was more of it in her present as well. And the way she developed as a character was astounding. I also really enjoyed how Aiden helped her become stronger, but she also was strong without having him at her back. That made her even more real as a character in my opinion. I'm putting the rest of this series on my TBR list, because I definitely need more.
*I received a free copy of [title] from [publisher] via Author. This has in no way influenced my voluntary review, which is honest and unbiased *The Ocean Between Us dealt with quite a few very dark themes, and some of the things that happened made me cry with both sadness and anger. However, there was so much sweet to counteract the bad!
Story:
The Ocean Between us started with showing me that Emma had the childhood from hell! With a mother who abused her, both verbally and physically, she felt trapped. In a life she didn't want. In a house where she wasn't welcome. And in her mind, where she had started to believe everything her mom told her she was or wasn't. Until one day she packed her bags and left South Africa for the US.
Aiden was one of those characters that seemed dangerous on the surface, but who was wholesome and real beneath. I loved how he and Em got to know each other in The Ocean Between Us. Of course, nothing was easy - and the suspense was well done. The atagonists were the kind of villains everybody hate, but they weren't flat or without interest anyway.
The darkness in The Ocean Between Us was very dark. And it didn't come only from Emma's past, there was more of it in her present as well. And the way she developed as a character was astounding. I also really enjoyed how Aiden helped her become stronger, but she also was strong without having him at her back. That made her even more real as a character in my opinion. I'm putting the rest of this series on my TBR list, because I definitely need more.
September 16, 2018
★★★ BOOK REVIEW ★★★
Title: The Ocean Between Us (A Southern Heroes Novel)
Author: Michelle Heard (formerly Michelle Horst)
Reviewed by: Ofa Reads from Tongan Book Lover
Rating: 4 Stars ✯✯✯✯
-------------------------------------------------------------
The Ocean Between Us by Michelle Heard has been a book I've been eagerly awaiting from the moment I saw that first teaser. I've always loved this author's books and her characters and this book is no different! I loved that it was unique, it was different and that Emma was from South Africa. It was a first for me to read about a heroine from there so it was a good first experience for me.
When Emma runs away from South Africa to America to escape her troubles and finally experience the freedom so savagely denied her. I was so proud of Emma for finally taking her life into her hands, and yet I was scared shitless at the same time because for me it was like watching your baby take their first steps. You don't want any harm to come to them, but they've got to stumble and fall on their own so they know how to get back up. Emma's been through so much more than any one person should have to deal with, and having her thrown in the middle of circling sharks drove me crazy. If it wasn't luck, it was fate that one of the first few people she meets is Aiden.
Aiden. Oh so strong and stubborn. Protective and broody. Determined and fierce. Everything about him made my heart sigh. Watching him fall for Emma was such a beautiful thing. It was an instantaneous kind of love, but not in that tacky way that makes no sense at all. It truly was fate that brought these two together. He was instantly so protective over her, I think because when they first met he could just feel that genuine and innocent energy she puts off. However, Detective Aiden is in the middle of working undercover in a dangerous case, for criminals involved in trafficking girls. And while Emma abhors violence, she detests law enforcement because of her own personal experience, it's something she suffers through because of her attraction and feelings for Aiden.
Watching these two discover themselves and their feelings for each other broke my heart and healed it at the same time. But when circumstances change, needing Emma to go back home, all of a sudden there's this massive ocean between them and their love. It's a beautiful story about self-worth, strength & trusting the process. While there were some instances where I found myself unable to connect, they did not in any way affect the delivery, the execution and the overall effect the story had on me. Such a beautiful story!
-----------------------------------------------------------
Dying to experience life, I cross an ocean to get away from my fears. I find my safe haven in the form of Detective Aiden Holden. He shows me what love is, but then our lives collide. Our little world shatters, and I'm caught in the crossfire.
I'm forced to return home, to let go of the only person who has made me feel like I could be more.
How do you return to a cage once you’ve tasted freedom?
My only hope is that Aiden will cross an ocean for me.
Don't forget to add it to your TBR list on GR <3 https://www.goodreads.com/…/s…/408726...
Still Time!!! Bloggers Sign Up here --> https://goo.gl/forms/B0Q9GXxUOZX1IqUv1
Model Credit: Drew Truckle.
Photographer Credit: Eric David Battershell.
www.ericbattershell.com
Cover Artist: Sybil, PopKitty Design
#TheOceanBetweenUs #ComingSoon #UnderCoverHotCop #AllTheFeels #RomanticSuspense #TOBU
Title: The Ocean Between Us (A Southern Heroes Novel)
Author: Michelle Heard (formerly Michelle Horst)
Reviewed by: Ofa Reads from Tongan Book Lover
Rating: 4 Stars ✯✯✯✯
-------------------------------------------------------------
The Ocean Between Us by Michelle Heard has been a book I've been eagerly awaiting from the moment I saw that first teaser. I've always loved this author's books and her characters and this book is no different! I loved that it was unique, it was different and that Emma was from South Africa. It was a first for me to read about a heroine from there so it was a good first experience for me.
When Emma runs away from South Africa to America to escape her troubles and finally experience the freedom so savagely denied her. I was so proud of Emma for finally taking her life into her hands, and yet I was scared shitless at the same time because for me it was like watching your baby take their first steps. You don't want any harm to come to them, but they've got to stumble and fall on their own so they know how to get back up. Emma's been through so much more than any one person should have to deal with, and having her thrown in the middle of circling sharks drove me crazy. If it wasn't luck, it was fate that one of the first few people she meets is Aiden.
Aiden. Oh so strong and stubborn. Protective and broody. Determined and fierce. Everything about him made my heart sigh. Watching him fall for Emma was such a beautiful thing. It was an instantaneous kind of love, but not in that tacky way that makes no sense at all. It truly was fate that brought these two together. He was instantly so protective over her, I think because when they first met he could just feel that genuine and innocent energy she puts off. However, Detective Aiden is in the middle of working undercover in a dangerous case, for criminals involved in trafficking girls. And while Emma abhors violence, she detests law enforcement because of her own personal experience, it's something she suffers through because of her attraction and feelings for Aiden.
Watching these two discover themselves and their feelings for each other broke my heart and healed it at the same time. But when circumstances change, needing Emma to go back home, all of a sudden there's this massive ocean between them and their love. It's a beautiful story about self-worth, strength & trusting the process. While there were some instances where I found myself unable to connect, they did not in any way affect the delivery, the execution and the overall effect the story had on me. Such a beautiful story!
-----------------------------------------------------------
Dying to experience life, I cross an ocean to get away from my fears. I find my safe haven in the form of Detective Aiden Holden. He shows me what love is, but then our lives collide. Our little world shatters, and I'm caught in the crossfire.
I'm forced to return home, to let go of the only person who has made me feel like I could be more.
How do you return to a cage once you’ve tasted freedom?
My only hope is that Aiden will cross an ocean for me.
Don't forget to add it to your TBR list on GR <3 https://www.goodreads.com/…/s…/408726...
Still Time!!! Bloggers Sign Up here --> https://goo.gl/forms/B0Q9GXxUOZX1IqUv1
Model Credit: Drew Truckle.
Photographer Credit: Eric David Battershell.
www.ericbattershell.com
Cover Artist: Sybil, PopKitty Design
#TheOceanBetweenUs #ComingSoon #UnderCoverHotCop #AllTheFeels #RomanticSuspense #TOBU
September 14, 2018
The Ocean Between Us by Michelle Heard
☆☆☆5 stars☆☆☆
Emma and Aiden...they broke my heart then restored the pieces, one by one. I love them beyond words. Its been said you may find your soulmate when you least expect it, and no truer words have been spoken when it comes to these two.
Emma had been through the deepest trenches of life, but somehow dug herself out. She's moved away from what was surely killing her, and now has the chance at a life of her choosing. Something she deserves and has fought her whole life for.
Aiden is a man of mystery. He holds secrets in his eyes, but for good reasons. By fate, Emma is dropped into his lap, kind of literally, and that's all it took for the sexy southern charmer to fall for the quiet introvert.
When Emma is put in danger, it's Aiden who comes charging in to rescue her, more than once might I add. He'd give his life and everything he is for her. Yes, he's the epitome of swoon worthy! This is a series of love, devotion and doing what's right. It's going to be a great ride for sure!
☆☆☆5 stars☆☆☆
Emma and Aiden...they broke my heart then restored the pieces, one by one. I love them beyond words. Its been said you may find your soulmate when you least expect it, and no truer words have been spoken when it comes to these two.
Emma had been through the deepest trenches of life, but somehow dug herself out. She's moved away from what was surely killing her, and now has the chance at a life of her choosing. Something she deserves and has fought her whole life for.
Aiden is a man of mystery. He holds secrets in his eyes, but for good reasons. By fate, Emma is dropped into his lap, kind of literally, and that's all it took for the sexy southern charmer to fall for the quiet introvert.
When Emma is put in danger, it's Aiden who comes charging in to rescue her, more than once might I add. He'd give his life and everything he is for her. Yes, he's the epitome of swoon worthy! This is a series of love, devotion and doing what's right. It's going to be a great ride for sure!
September 26, 2018
I am loving the journey I am taking with this author. Each and every book I read I feel it’s her best, my favourite until she writes another story and then it tops the previous book. The Ocean Between Us is no different. I absolutely loved each and every word of it.
Emma runs from everything she knew to a fresh start. She hasn’t had an easy start in life so I was really rooting for her to find the happiness and peace she deserves. I thought Emma came across as a really lovely, strong and independent character.
Aidan is awesome. I have so many positives for him. He is my ideal book boyfriend.
The author did a fantastic job with this story. Abuse is not an easy topic to write or read about and the author did a great job in this story. I’m so looking forward to reading more from this author.
Emma runs from everything she knew to a fresh start. She hasn’t had an easy start in life so I was really rooting for her to find the happiness and peace she deserves. I thought Emma came across as a really lovely, strong and independent character.
Aidan is awesome. I have so many positives for him. He is my ideal book boyfriend.
The author did a fantastic job with this story. Abuse is not an easy topic to write or read about and the author did a great job in this story. I’m so looking forward to reading more from this author.
September 18, 2018
Some may find this book difficult to deal with because of dark triggers. It isn’t an easy read – oftentimes the subject matter gut-wrenching.
Emma is a broken soul. When she escapes her home in South Africa, along with the horrible abuse at the hands of her family, she finds a chance to survive in the United States. Quite by accident, she meets Aiden, a man with secrets – but also the man who will restore her hope that life can be better. But injustices once again reappear and Emma faces more evil in her life. At this point, I’m worn out and wondering how one beautiful individual can endure so much hell on earth in one lifetime. And all the while I’m falling head-over-heels in love with Aiden -- but he's falling in love with Emma. The romance and love story between them is beautifully written and so meaningful and touching.
The Ocean Between Us is a powerful well-balanced blend of innocence vs. evil, characters that run the gamut of human experiences, in a plotline that is certain to capture a reader’s heart, mind and soul. And the beginning of a new series by this author.
Emma is a broken soul. When she escapes her home in South Africa, along with the horrible abuse at the hands of her family, she finds a chance to survive in the United States. Quite by accident, she meets Aiden, a man with secrets – but also the man who will restore her hope that life can be better. But injustices once again reappear and Emma faces more evil in her life. At this point, I’m worn out and wondering how one beautiful individual can endure so much hell on earth in one lifetime. And all the while I’m falling head-over-heels in love with Aiden -- but he's falling in love with Emma. The romance and love story between them is beautifully written and so meaningful and touching.
The Ocean Between Us is a powerful well-balanced blend of innocence vs. evil, characters that run the gamut of human experiences, in a plotline that is certain to capture a reader’s heart, mind and soul. And the beginning of a new series by this author.
February 22, 2014
I hope you all enjoy Aiden and Emma's journey! Here are some of my favorite parts of the book -
“Yeah, she made me fall so hard that I’m still fallin’.”
Then she moans and opens her mouth, and I feel like I’m teetering on the edge of heaven’s bliss. I thought I‘d been to heaven and back before, but this is different. She has me standing on the edge of the unknown, and when our tongues meet, I want to just free-fall.
You can visit me on my Facebook page where you can get your eBook signed with a personal message! Look forward to your reviews and hearing from you.
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorMichel...
Twitter: @MichelleAHorst
Website: http://michellehorstauthor.wordpress....
Sunshine Smiles from around the world,
Michelle ;)
“Yeah, she made me fall so hard that I’m still fallin’.”
Then she moans and opens her mouth, and I feel like I’m teetering on the edge of heaven’s bliss. I thought I‘d been to heaven and back before, but this is different. She has me standing on the edge of the unknown, and when our tongues meet, I want to just free-fall.
You can visit me on my Facebook page where you can get your eBook signed with a personal message! Look forward to your reviews and hearing from you.
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorMichel...
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Sunshine Smiles from around the world,
Michelle ;)
September 20, 2018
★༻• 🌊•༺• 💦•༻• 🌊•༺★💦★༻• 🌊•༺• 💦•༻• 🌊•༺★༻• 🌊•༺• 💦•༻• 🌊•༺★💦★༻• 🌊•༺• 💦•༻• 🌊•༺★•
THE OCEAN BETWEEN US IS A FLAWLESS, EMOTIONALLY PACKED & HAUNTINGLY BEAUTIFUL 5 STAR READ THAT DELIVERS ON EVERY LEVEL!! OH THE “FEELS” IN THIS BOOK!!
GAH!!!! It’s official… I have climbed aboard and joined the twisted sister mother-ship also known as the Michelle Heard Fan Club. I can’t wait and look forward to her taking me on another exciting ride. Because that’s exactly what you get with a dark romantic suspense novel written by this author.
The Ocean Between Us is a beautiful love story but not in a traditional, perfectly wrapped cookie cutter way. It’s not for the faint of heart. It will test your limits and emotions. Having said that, I fell completely and madly in love with Aiden and Emma. I'm giving NO spoilers in this review.
For me, this book had such depth and dimension, heart and soul, good and evil, light and darkness, love and hate.
It is powerfully emotional, riveting and raw, heartbreaking, thought provoking, and extremely well written. It’s without a doubt a book you will remember for all the intense, and at times, difficult moments and gripping subject matter.
But more importantly, you get an up close and personal front row seat to witness and follow Emma & Aiden on their journey and rejoice at the miracle of love that grows between these two people.
The author keeps it real and sugar coats nothing. The shocking events that take place in this book can and do happen in reality, however disturbing it may be.
My emotions were all over the place. I ugly cried, I yelled at the evil doers and let me tell you there are plenty of cringe worthy villains in this story. I wanted to throat punch, drop kick and bi#ch slap each and every one of them. Over and over and over again.
But what I took away from this story is that despite all the evilness, despite the depravity and hopelessness that lies deep down, embedded between the pages of this book, there are cracks as well. Cracks deep in the crevasses of those pages.
Cracks that opens up, however little, however slowly and what emerges from those cracks is healing, hope, courage and the awareness that even in the face of all that darkness and pain, you CAN find incredible happiness, peace and above all else, a bright and beautiful future filled with LOVE.
I both love and can’t get enough of each and every one of the dark twisted tales of tortured souls and true love written by the tenacious and ever talented author Michelle Heard. This 5-star read, The Ocean Between Us is no exception.
I can’t encourage you enough to go grab your copy of this book right now. You better prepare yourselves though and find a nice quiet spot because you will want to hide away from everyone. You will not be able to put this book down once your start reading. I couldn’t.
THE OCEAN BETWEEN US IS A FLAWLESS, EMOTIONALLY PACKED & HAUNTINGLY BEAUTIFUL 5 STAR READ THAT DELIVERS ON EVERY LEVEL!! OH THE “FEELS” IN THIS BOOK!!
GAH!!!! It’s official… I have climbed aboard and joined the twisted sister mother-ship also known as the Michelle Heard Fan Club. I can’t wait and look forward to her taking me on another exciting ride. Because that’s exactly what you get with a dark romantic suspense novel written by this author.
The Ocean Between Us is a beautiful love story but not in a traditional, perfectly wrapped cookie cutter way. It’s not for the faint of heart. It will test your limits and emotions. Having said that, I fell completely and madly in love with Aiden and Emma. I'm giving NO spoilers in this review.
For me, this book had such depth and dimension, heart and soul, good and evil, light and darkness, love and hate.
It is powerfully emotional, riveting and raw, heartbreaking, thought provoking, and extremely well written. It’s without a doubt a book you will remember for all the intense, and at times, difficult moments and gripping subject matter.
But more importantly, you get an up close and personal front row seat to witness and follow Emma & Aiden on their journey and rejoice at the miracle of love that grows between these two people.
The author keeps it real and sugar coats nothing. The shocking events that take place in this book can and do happen in reality, however disturbing it may be.
My emotions were all over the place. I ugly cried, I yelled at the evil doers and let me tell you there are plenty of cringe worthy villains in this story. I wanted to throat punch, drop kick and bi#ch slap each and every one of them. Over and over and over again.
But what I took away from this story is that despite all the evilness, despite the depravity and hopelessness that lies deep down, embedded between the pages of this book, there are cracks as well. Cracks deep in the crevasses of those pages.
Cracks that opens up, however little, however slowly and what emerges from those cracks is healing, hope, courage and the awareness that even in the face of all that darkness and pain, you CAN find incredible happiness, peace and above all else, a bright and beautiful future filled with LOVE.
I both love and can’t get enough of each and every one of the dark twisted tales of tortured souls and true love written by the tenacious and ever talented author Michelle Heard. This 5-star read, The Ocean Between Us is no exception.
I can’t encourage you enough to go grab your copy of this book right now. You better prepare yourselves though and find a nice quiet spot because you will want to hide away from everyone. You will not be able to put this book down once your start reading. I couldn’t.
September 14, 2018
I fully admit, I was a bit afraid to start this book. The author’s trigger warnings had me slightly apprehensive but I’ve loved Michelle Heard’s writing for so long I knew I had to jump in and I’m endlessly glad I did. Her writing has always been beautiful, but recently it’s like a whole new level has been unleashed for Michelle Heard taking her books from superb all the way to phenomenal! The Ocean Between Us is simultaneously devastatingly heartbreaking and unbelievably healing. All while being filled with a deeply emotional romance and being entirely unique.
This book was nothing I ever expected and everything I didn’t know I needed. Emma escapes from an utterly heartbreaking situation and is promptly thrust right into the path of the man who will show her what love really is. My heart shattered so many times for all Emma went through, but even still her inner strength and ability to still love so deeply over power everything that life has thrown at her. Aiden is the perfect other half to her. This man is everything she’s never had and everything she truly deserves. Loving her with a ferocity that goes beyond any distance.
Their story is not for the faint hearted. You will need tissues. You will ugly cry. But my god is it worth it for the absolute beauty of their love. Once again I am absolutely blown away by Michelle Heard’s writing and cannot wait to see what beauty she’ll grace the world with next when it comes to her words.
This book was nothing I ever expected and everything I didn’t know I needed. Emma escapes from an utterly heartbreaking situation and is promptly thrust right into the path of the man who will show her what love really is. My heart shattered so many times for all Emma went through, but even still her inner strength and ability to still love so deeply over power everything that life has thrown at her. Aiden is the perfect other half to her. This man is everything she’s never had and everything she truly deserves. Loving her with a ferocity that goes beyond any distance.
Their story is not for the faint hearted. You will need tissues. You will ugly cry. But my god is it worth it for the absolute beauty of their love. Once again I am absolutely blown away by Michelle Heard’s writing and cannot wait to see what beauty she’ll grace the world with next when it comes to her words.
September 16, 2018
I'm a bit a mess here and I'm struggling to find right words. I knew this story will mess up my emotions. I need stress reliever now. All that abuse... I'm wondering, what's worse? Mental or physical abuse? While physical leaves scars on your skin, but scars left on your soul may never heal completely. What Emma was through... I'm just glad she found her eagle.
But while it was hard to read some parts, because of their damaging impact on a soul, parts that made me most emotional was with Aidan. Aidan... Damn. This man made me feel butterflies in my stomach. I can't find words to describe him. He was just perfection. When you think, he can't get any better, Aidan goes and does something that steals another piece of your heart. He was everything.
But while it was hard to read some parts, because of their damaging impact on a soul, parts that made me most emotional was with Aidan. Aidan... Damn. This man made me feel butterflies in my stomach. I can't find words to describe him. He was just perfection. When you think, he can't get any better, Aidan goes and does something that steals another piece of your heart. He was everything.
September 14, 2018
This was my first read by Michelle and definitely won't be my last. I really enjoyed that this story was different to your typical romances and dealt with difficult issues .
Emma was a great heroine, it was quite emotional watching her overcome her abuse and grow the way she did. Aiden, our hero in the story, really was a real life hero. He was loyal and fiercely protective Emma. Their relationship developed really quickly but as a reader who doesn't really enjoy instalove, it felt natural and real the way Emma and Aidens relationship developed and the speed at which they took things.
Worth a read!
Emma was a great heroine, it was quite emotional watching her overcome her abuse and grow the way she did. Aiden, our hero in the story, really was a real life hero. He was loyal and fiercely protective Emma. Their relationship developed really quickly but as a reader who doesn't really enjoy instalove, it felt natural and real the way Emma and Aidens relationship developed and the speed at which they took things.
Worth a read!
September 14, 2018
The Ocean Between Us was an emotional and so good! I loved it! Aiden was really sweet and so swoony. I loved how protective he was of Emma. Emma was a sweet woman and I felt so bad for her. Aiden and Emma had amazing chemistry. Their love was beautiful! Looking forward to reading more in this new series!
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