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Connections #3.5
Blurred
The story before the love story….
When he lost the only woman he’d ever loved, it seemed there was nothing left to live for.
Even as a boy, all Ben Covington ever wanted was to spend forever with Dahlia London, the beautiful girl next door...then one life-altering decision tore them apart and he was forced to leave her.
Now, despite having returned to win her back, he’s still alone. She’s with someone else—someone she’s never going to leave.
Resigned to a future without his former girlfriend, Ben numbs his broken heart in a haze of liquor and women. But then the only woman who ever even turned his head while he was with his girl reappears unexpectedly. And he’s never forgotten their one incredible night together. But will Ben’s destructive behavior destroy his future with her before it even begins?
Includes a preview of Kim Karr’s Connections novel, Frayed.
Praise for the Connections Series
“Incredibly emotional, romantic, sexy, and addictive.”—Samantha Young, New York Times bestselling author of Fall from India Place
“Emotional, unpredictable, and downright hot.”—K. A. Tucker, author of Ten Tiny Breaths
“I was riveted from the first line and couldn’t put it down until the last word was read.”—New York Times bestselling author A. L. Jackson
Kim Karr is the New York Times bestselling author of the popular Connections series, including Connected, Torn, Mended, and Frayed. She lives in Florida with her husband and four kids. She’s always had a love for books and recently decided to embrace one of her biggest passions—writing.
When he lost the only woman he’d ever loved, it seemed there was nothing left to live for.
Even as a boy, all Ben Covington ever wanted was to spend forever with Dahlia London, the beautiful girl next door...then one life-altering decision tore them apart and he was forced to leave her.
Now, despite having returned to win her back, he’s still alone. She’s with someone else—someone she’s never going to leave.
Resigned to a future without his former girlfriend, Ben numbs his broken heart in a haze of liquor and women. But then the only woman who ever even turned his head while he was with his girl reappears unexpectedly. And he’s never forgotten their one incredible night together. But will Ben’s destructive behavior destroy his future with her before it even begins?
Includes a preview of Kim Karr’s Connections novel, Frayed.
Praise for the Connections Series
“Incredibly emotional, romantic, sexy, and addictive.”—Samantha Young, New York Times bestselling author of Fall from India Place
“Emotional, unpredictable, and downright hot.”—K. A. Tucker, author of Ten Tiny Breaths
“I was riveted from the first line and couldn’t put it down until the last word was read.”—New York Times bestselling author A. L. Jackson
Kim Karr is the New York Times bestselling author of the popular Connections series, including Connected, Torn, Mended, and Frayed. She lives in Florida with her husband and four kids. She’s always had a love for books and recently decided to embrace one of her biggest passions—writing.
145 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 5, 2014
30 people are currently reading
2596 people want to read
About the author
Kim Karr
73 books4,528 followersReader * Chocolate Lover * Writer * Coffee Lover * Romantic * Beach Lover * Yoga Beginner
Kim Karr is a New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of eighteen novels. Best known for writing sexy contemporary love stories, she enjoys bringing flawed characters to life.
Her romances are raw, real, and explosive.
Her characters will make you laugh, make you cry, make you feel.
And her happily-ever-afters are always swoon worthy.
From the brooding rock star to the arrogant millionaire. From the witty damsel-in-distress to the sassy high-powered business woman. No two storylines are ever alike.
Get ready to fall in love.
Kim Karr is a New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of eighteen novels. Best known for writing sexy contemporary love stories, she enjoys bringing flawed characters to life.
Her romances are raw, real, and explosive.
Her characters will make you laugh, make you cry, make you feel.
And her happily-ever-afters are always swoon worthy.
From the brooding rock star to the arrogant millionaire. From the witty damsel-in-distress to the sassy high-powered business woman. No two storylines are ever alike.
Get ready to fall in love.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 160 reviews
August 5, 2014
Blurred is a novella of the Connections series and, in strict reading order, it’s 3.5 on the list. It’s very unlike the previous novella in the series, Dazed, which told a complete story in itself of Aerie and Jagger. There isn’t really a storyline to Blurred per se, it’s much more of a background read to the major plot twist in the first two books giving us the story from Ben’s POV, allowing us to see how he feels about it all. This obviously contains major spoilers for Connected and Torn, so I have to say that you need to have read at least those two books before embarking on this one.
I started Blurred with very mixed feelings about Ben Covington. He’s really not been my favourite person in romantic fiction – I understood why he did what he did but he’s always been the anti-hero and has always come across as a bit of a douche. But I have faith in Kim Karr and, even though the girl on the cover does look like a vampire, i was prepared to go in with an open mind and attempt to make my peace with Ben.
At the end of this novella, I confess that I’m still not very enamoured by Ben. Most of this served to remind me just why I have never liked him. I did understand his sadness and desperation at his situation and how he’s lost the two women who meant the most in the world to him, Dahlia and his Mother, and this part of the novella was handled seamlessly but I’d forgotten how he cheated on Dahlia with River’s sister Bell, who has also not been a very likeable character in the series so far and a potential romantic liaison between these two seems fairly fitting (birds of a feather and all that).
Ben continues to deal with the tragedy of his life by losing himself in booze an easy women and, if you like your heroes deeply flawed, then Ben’s upcoming novel Frayed is probably a sure thing for you but I didn’t really find anything in Blurred to make me like Ben any better. For the most part, he still seems fairly self-serving and shallow and I still don’t like him! Let’s say that he is pretty much River Wilde’s polar opposite.
Blurred is mostly a retelling of what has already gone before in the series told from Ben’s POV with a few more details surrounding the case that forced him to disappear that actually only serve to deepen the mystery. It’s definitely all background – he and Bell haven’t even started seeing each other by the end of this one but I think it sets up the potential of a fairly antagonistic and difficult relationship that will feature in Frayed between two very challenging characters. I can’t fault the writing – Kim Karr is always excellent, I just don’t care for Ben or Bell.
If there is a moment in time that comes to alter the course of your life forever—mine would be the day Caleb Holt told me I had to disappear. I don’t even know who I am anymore. I’m alone and left to pick up pieces to a life I don’t have. Rock bottom. It’s a phrase I never thought I’d use to describe myself, but it’s the only one that fits.
I started Blurred with very mixed feelings about Ben Covington. He’s really not been my favourite person in romantic fiction – I understood why he did what he did but he’s always been the anti-hero and has always come across as a bit of a douche. But I have faith in Kim Karr and, even though the girl on the cover does look like a vampire, i was prepared to go in with an open mind and attempt to make my peace with Ben.
At the end of this novella, I confess that I’m still not very enamoured by Ben. Most of this served to remind me just why I have never liked him. I did understand his sadness and desperation at his situation and how he’s lost the two women who meant the most in the world to him, Dahlia and his Mother, and this part of the novella was handled seamlessly but I’d forgotten how he cheated on Dahlia with River’s sister Bell, who has also not been a very likeable character in the series so far and a potential romantic liaison between these two seems fairly fitting (birds of a feather and all that).
Ben continues to deal with the tragedy of his life by losing himself in booze an easy women and, if you like your heroes deeply flawed, then Ben’s upcoming novel Frayed is probably a sure thing for you but I didn’t really find anything in Blurred to make me like Ben any better. For the most part, he still seems fairly self-serving and shallow and I still don’t like him! Let’s say that he is pretty much River Wilde’s polar opposite.
Blurred is mostly a retelling of what has already gone before in the series told from Ben’s POV with a few more details surrounding the case that forced him to disappear that actually only serve to deepen the mystery. It’s definitely all background – he and Bell haven’t even started seeing each other by the end of this one but I think it sets up the potential of a fairly antagonistic and difficult relationship that will feature in Frayed between two very challenging characters. I can’t fault the writing – Kim Karr is always excellent, I just don’t care for Ben or Bell.
August 5, 2014
ARC provided by author in exchange of honest review
☆☆☆☆☆ 5 Blurred Lines Stars ☆☆☆☆☆
Rock Bottom. Hell. Despair. Regrets. Alone. Lost. For Ben Convington, those words describes his personal turmoil and hell. A living hell, I might say where the lines of the past, present, and future begins to get blurred. They say to live life with no regrets but for Ben, his life is filled with regrets, what ifs, and sins. He is a lost man trying to find himself. And so begins, Ben’s tale of where he traces back to the days where his life, happiness, love and passion got BLURRED.
“I’m alone and left to pick up pieces to a life I don’t have. Rock Bottom. It’s a phrase I never thought I’d use to describe myself, but it’s the only one that fits.”
Blurred by Kim Karr was such an emotional book for me. I have always been a big fan of redemption. I love a story where an overlooked, disliked and misunderstood character finally gets a SECOND CHANCE. Who are we to deny a person a second chance? And so I was so happy to see that Kim Karr did just that. She made us understand the real Ben Convington. Behind Ben’s eyes is a man wanting to find his way but needs the support from his family and friends but most importantly, Ben needs to stand up on his own.
Ms. Karr goes in depth of the struggles and inner turmoil Ben goes through. It is not lighthearted or beautiful but RAW. Ben is a man exposed. His vulnerability is out there. His sadness is on his face. His hatred for himself is on his skin. His regrets and burdens lies deep within him. Through this touching storyline, Ben is finally getting his side of the story told. He is finally getting his chance to be UNDERSTOOD. I will not lie and sugarcoat it, Ben is not perfect but who is? We all make mistakes and fuck up but who are we to deny a person seeking redemption? The emotional tale of Ben finding his way, admitting his faults, and seeking redemption is a true testament of why BEN CONVINGTON captured my heart. The raw vulnerability and sadness is what made me love Blurred. Life is not perfect. The truth hurts. And behind Ben eyes, lies a man wanting to be free and happy. They say home is where the heart is. And so begins the tale of Ben finally transforming his once blurred life into a life filled with hope and new possibilities. Will Ben be finally given his chance to be understood and redeemed?
“I watch the sky come alive with so many vibrant hues, starbursts of color, and showers of light. And as ribbons of smoke blur the sky, I can say for the first time in a long time, my path is clear.”
All I can say is go read Blurred. Find out the truth. Read his side of the story. Don’t judge a book by it’s cover. Ben deserves his side to be told. And most importantly, his chance to find love and happiness. So I can happily say, Ben Convington stole my heart. And I want to thank Kim Karr for allowing us to give Ben a chance in Blurred. I look forward to reading Frayed. Can’t wait to read more of Ben and his tale of redemption, love, and happiness. And so begins where the lines are no longer blurry in Ben Convington’s life.
Kim Karr
☆☆☆☆☆ 5 Blurred Lines Stars ☆☆☆☆☆
Rock Bottom. Hell. Despair. Regrets. Alone. Lost. For Ben Convington, those words describes his personal turmoil and hell. A living hell, I might say where the lines of the past, present, and future begins to get blurred. They say to live life with no regrets but for Ben, his life is filled with regrets, what ifs, and sins. He is a lost man trying to find himself. And so begins, Ben’s tale of where he traces back to the days where his life, happiness, love and passion got BLURRED.
“I’m alone and left to pick up pieces to a life I don’t have. Rock Bottom. It’s a phrase I never thought I’d use to describe myself, but it’s the only one that fits.”
Blurred by Kim Karr was such an emotional book for me. I have always been a big fan of redemption. I love a story where an overlooked, disliked and misunderstood character finally gets a SECOND CHANCE. Who are we to deny a person a second chance? And so I was so happy to see that Kim Karr did just that. She made us understand the real Ben Convington. Behind Ben’s eyes is a man wanting to find his way but needs the support from his family and friends but most importantly, Ben needs to stand up on his own.
Ms. Karr goes in depth of the struggles and inner turmoil Ben goes through. It is not lighthearted or beautiful but RAW. Ben is a man exposed. His vulnerability is out there. His sadness is on his face. His hatred for himself is on his skin. His regrets and burdens lies deep within him. Through this touching storyline, Ben is finally getting his side of the story told. He is finally getting his chance to be UNDERSTOOD. I will not lie and sugarcoat it, Ben is not perfect but who is? We all make mistakes and fuck up but who are we to deny a person seeking redemption? The emotional tale of Ben finding his way, admitting his faults, and seeking redemption is a true testament of why BEN CONVINGTON captured my heart. The raw vulnerability and sadness is what made me love Blurred. Life is not perfect. The truth hurts. And behind Ben eyes, lies a man wanting to be free and happy. They say home is where the heart is. And so begins the tale of Ben finally transforming his once blurred life into a life filled with hope and new possibilities. Will Ben be finally given his chance to be understood and redeemed?
“I watch the sky come alive with so many vibrant hues, starbursts of color, and showers of light. And as ribbons of smoke blur the sky, I can say for the first time in a long time, my path is clear.”
All I can say is go read Blurred. Find out the truth. Read his side of the story. Don’t judge a book by it’s cover. Ben deserves his side to be told. And most importantly, his chance to find love and happiness. So I can happily say, Ben Convington stole my heart. And I want to thank Kim Karr for allowing us to give Ben a chance in Blurred. I look forward to reading Frayed. Can’t wait to read more of Ben and his tale of redemption, love, and happiness. And so begins where the lines are no longer blurry in Ben Convington’s life.
Kim Karr
August 6, 2014
I love this series. So far, every book that I have read of Ms. Karr, was great, and a 5 star.
It addresses all the previous books, but the Ben POV. Fills in the gaps that might remain from previous books. I like Ben Covington and he needs a second chance to be happy.
It’s start with Ben mother’s funeral.
One wrong decision changed everything (maybe it wasn’t the wrong decision). Now that time has passed since Ben is finally able to move on and start over. Start all over again is not easy. Dahl and Bell are often in his memoirs. And the life before he “die”.
Ben aspires to his own happiness. Maybe he will reach that in the next book. Can not wait :)
It addresses all the previous books, but the Ben POV. Fills in the gaps that might remain from previous books. I like Ben Covington and he needs a second chance to be happy.
It’s start with Ben mother’s funeral.
I’m alone and left to pick up pieces to a life I don’t have. Rock bottom. It’s a phrase I never thought I’d use to describe myself, but it’s the only one that fits.
One wrong decision changed everything (maybe it wasn’t the wrong decision). Now that time has passed since Ben is finally able to move on and start over. Start all over again is not easy. Dahl and Bell are often in his memoirs. And the life before he “die”.
“You know me so I’m going to tell it to you like it is—you need to get your head out of your ass and get on with your life because life’s too short not to.”
Ben aspires to his own happiness. Maybe he will reach that in the next book. Can not wait :)
October 19, 2014
We all know I don't care for novellas so..I'm using this as just my long prologue to Frayed!
Ben Covington has never been my fave character but I enjoyed getting more into his past and finally seeing the connection to Bell! Although for a man so in love...ummm he seemed to have a problem when it came to sorority hopefuls ;) so i am going into Frayed trying to keep an open mind all while I have the "ick" factor knowing Ben is a cheater! Let's hope he can redeem himself in his journey to happiness!
Ben Covington has never been my fave character but I enjoyed getting more into his past and finally seeing the connection to Bell! Although for a man so in love...ummm he seemed to have a problem when it came to sorority hopefuls ;) so i am going into Frayed trying to keep an open mind all while I have the "ick" factor knowing Ben is a cheater! Let's hope he can redeem himself in his journey to happiness!
August 6, 2014
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Link to Blurred review http://angelas-sizzling-pages.blogspo...
4.5 Stars Arc received from author in exchange for an honest review
Finally…
The Story I’ve longed for…
The lying, cheating bastard that is Ben Covington – the man most have come to resent in the Connections Series, tells his story. Alas, an insight into the dysfunctional mind of a character that both frazzled my emotions and caused great angst. Why was I anticipating his story? Because deep down, I believed there was hope for him – that there was more to his persona. I wanted to believe that Karr’s giftedness could change how I felt about the man who claimed to love Dahlia, yet destroyed all love’s beauty by surrendering to lustful temptations, lies and deceits. And as suspected, placing my trust in this author’s hands had me walking away pleased.
Now, it wasn’t easy for me to come to terms with Ben’s character. After reading “Torn” I wanted to gut him like a fish and fillet his balls. But something nagged at me – A teeny-tiny part of my heart wanted to reach out to him. I can’t imagine why since I found his actions truly deplorable. Nevertheless, I took the plunge, put my apprehension aside and dove head first into Ben’s world.
And what I discovered surprised me.
He forced me to understand his pain, his turmoil.
I was sorrowful for how he single handedly destroyed all the good in his life. Convinced that he loved Dahlia, but somehow lost his way and regrets the pain he had caused. That things happen for a reason and his temptation may be his salvation. His losses pulled on my heartstrings. In “Blurred”, we see all the fractured pieces of his drunken life; His struggle to crawl up from rock bottom; His quest for closure and redemption; His willingness to turn his life around to be a better man; To earn the affections from his seductress, Bell. It was admirable.
I learned that I don’t have to love a character to enjoy their story, but simply appreciate their strife and path to betterment. I did not walk into this story adoring Ben. However, I connected with his blurred and broken soul and now wholeheartedly believe that he is worthy of a second chance. Kim Karr has done the impossible. The “bad guy” she created morphed into a character that does deserve a chance to achieve a “happily ever after” in my opinion. This was no small feat; Ben still behaved like an ass throughout most of this story. He needs to work hard to win me (and Bell) over in “Frayed”. Nonetheless, all the struggles I experienced reading his tale were well worth it.
I realize “Blurred” will be difficult for some readers. My advice, if you are a fan of the series, place trust in Karr’s vision and the path she will set forth for her characters. The journey will begin with a blur, but will end with clarity into the heart and soul of Ben. For me, the experience was gratifying. Another great read from the imagination of Kim Karr. Looking forward to the next installment…the story of Bell and Ben in “Frayed”.
Link to Blurred review http://angelas-sizzling-pages.blogspo...
4.5 Stars Arc received from author in exchange for an honest review
Finally…
The Story I’ve longed for…
The lying, cheating bastard that is Ben Covington – the man most have come to resent in the Connections Series, tells his story. Alas, an insight into the dysfunctional mind of a character that both frazzled my emotions and caused great angst. Why was I anticipating his story? Because deep down, I believed there was hope for him – that there was more to his persona. I wanted to believe that Karr’s giftedness could change how I felt about the man who claimed to love Dahlia, yet destroyed all love’s beauty by surrendering to lustful temptations, lies and deceits. And as suspected, placing my trust in this author’s hands had me walking away pleased.
Now, it wasn’t easy for me to come to terms with Ben’s character. After reading “Torn” I wanted to gut him like a fish and fillet his balls. But something nagged at me – A teeny-tiny part of my heart wanted to reach out to him. I can’t imagine why since I found his actions truly deplorable. Nevertheless, I took the plunge, put my apprehension aside and dove head first into Ben’s world.
And what I discovered surprised me.
He forced me to understand his pain, his turmoil.
I was sorrowful for how he single handedly destroyed all the good in his life. Convinced that he loved Dahlia, but somehow lost his way and regrets the pain he had caused. That things happen for a reason and his temptation may be his salvation. His losses pulled on my heartstrings. In “Blurred”, we see all the fractured pieces of his drunken life; His struggle to crawl up from rock bottom; His quest for closure and redemption; His willingness to turn his life around to be a better man; To earn the affections from his seductress, Bell. It was admirable.
I learned that I don’t have to love a character to enjoy their story, but simply appreciate their strife and path to betterment. I did not walk into this story adoring Ben. However, I connected with his blurred and broken soul and now wholeheartedly believe that he is worthy of a second chance. Kim Karr has done the impossible. The “bad guy” she created morphed into a character that does deserve a chance to achieve a “happily ever after” in my opinion. This was no small feat; Ben still behaved like an ass throughout most of this story. He needs to work hard to win me (and Bell) over in “Frayed”. Nonetheless, all the struggles I experienced reading his tale were well worth it.
I realize “Blurred” will be difficult for some readers. My advice, if you are a fan of the series, place trust in Karr’s vision and the path she will set forth for her characters. The journey will begin with a blur, but will end with clarity into the heart and soul of Ben. For me, the experience was gratifying. Another great read from the imagination of Kim Karr. Looking forward to the next installment…the story of Bell and Ben in “Frayed”.
August 5, 2014
4.5 stars!
I will start right off by saying that I highly recommend you read Connected and Torn (books 1&2 in The Connections Series) before reading Blurred. Everything will make sense and have a more profound meaning.
Ben was probably at one of his lowest points in his life. He wasn’t living, but merely existing. He was lost, hurt, broken, and angry with how everything had unfolded. Now see, THIS is why you MUST read Connected and Torn. In those two books, we got to see a side of Ben (and a situation) that probably made a lot of readers angry, but it was also what set the very important backstory to this book. I never once hated Ben. Yes, he made mistakes and hurt loved ones, but I always felt bad for him, I guess. I could tell there was so much more to his story than what we got. And boy, was I right.
In this novella, we got to see Ben find his path in life and get back on track. Mind you, it was far from easy, but slowly, he grieved everything and everyone he’d lost. We got in Ben’s head. I felt his pain, his anguish, his loss. Sigh. This book was brilliantly written. In MY eyes, Ben has totally redeemed himself. I am a strong believer in second chances and I am extremely happy to see that Ben is on the path to his second chance.
Now, while there were some HOT scenes in Blurred, Ben didn’t really develop a steady relationship with anyone. Like the synopsis states: “The story before the love story...” We saw him mend certain connections he had, but he didn’t really get THE girl. However, we got to see his past with her – how they met and how they got to where they were now. Suffice it to say, I’m definitely looking forward to Frayed, which is THEIR story whereas Blurred was BEN’S. I guess you could say Blurred was a very much needed introduction to Ben’s Happily Ever After………with Bell.
As always, this was a well written book that allows the reader to have a complete visual and understanding of everything that’s happening. It takes a talented author to develop a character like Kim Karr did with Ben’s. She took him from being someone who wasn’t the most popular or liked, into someone that the readers can’t help but root for. So seriously, give Ben a chance. You won’t be sorry. Great work, Kim!
✦ Buy the book: http://amzn.to/UYC5Cg
✦ FULL BLOG POST: http://bit.ly/1uiFSqA
I will start right off by saying that I highly recommend you read Connected and Torn (books 1&2 in The Connections Series) before reading Blurred. Everything will make sense and have a more profound meaning.
“Blame is a strange thing; it consumes you, haunts you, takes over your life.”
Ben was probably at one of his lowest points in his life. He wasn’t living, but merely existing. He was lost, hurt, broken, and angry with how everything had unfolded. Now see, THIS is why you MUST read Connected and Torn. In those two books, we got to see a side of Ben (and a situation) that probably made a lot of readers angry, but it was also what set the very important backstory to this book. I never once hated Ben. Yes, he made mistakes and hurt loved ones, but I always felt bad for him, I guess. I could tell there was so much more to his story than what we got. And boy, was I right.
“New beginnings. New life.”
In this novella, we got to see Ben find his path in life and get back on track. Mind you, it was far from easy, but slowly, he grieved everything and everyone he’d lost. We got in Ben’s head. I felt his pain, his anguish, his loss. Sigh. This book was brilliantly written. In MY eyes, Ben has totally redeemed himself. I am a strong believer in second chances and I am extremely happy to see that Ben is on the path to his second chance.
Now, while there were some HOT scenes in Blurred, Ben didn’t really develop a steady relationship with anyone. Like the synopsis states: “The story before the love story...” We saw him mend certain connections he had, but he didn’t really get THE girl. However, we got to see his past with her – how they met and how they got to where they were now. Suffice it to say, I’m definitely looking forward to Frayed, which is THEIR story whereas Blurred was BEN’S. I guess you could say Blurred was a very much needed introduction to Ben’s Happily Ever After………with Bell.
As always, this was a well written book that allows the reader to have a complete visual and understanding of everything that’s happening. It takes a talented author to develop a character like Kim Karr did with Ben’s. She took him from being someone who wasn’t the most popular or liked, into someone that the readers can’t help but root for. So seriously, give Ben a chance. You won’t be sorry. Great work, Kim!
“With each step I took, I couldn’t help but notice that her eyes were locked on mine…green to blue. In them I saw a reflection from so long ago, of a memory I’ve never forgotten. And although I wasn’t available to her the first time we met, and I wasn’t in the right mind space the second time we met, I think everything is different now, And I can honestly say…the future has never looked brighter.”
✦ Buy the book: http://amzn.to/UYC5Cg
✦ FULL BLOG POST: http://bit.ly/1uiFSqA
August 6, 2014
I must say right off if you have not read Connected and Torn then please do not read Blurred, as you will not understand Ben at all if you do.
I will admit when Kim first told me she was going to write Ben with his own story I was a little worried about how she was going to be able to redeem him. I like many other’s is not ( or I should say WAS NOT) a fan of Ben’s, that is until this book.
We all met Ben in Connected, We got to know first hand the relationship that he and Dalhia had. When Suddenly Ben had to fake his own death and leave Dahlia to keep her safe. Dalhia had finally moved on when her world came crashing down and all of a sudden Ben was back from the dead. Ben thought Dahlia would be his forever. As we found out that was not the case. Now we see what has become of Ben from his POV.
If there is a moment in time that comes to alter the course of your life forever—mine would be the day Caleb Holt told me I had to disappear. I don’t even know who I am anymore. I’m alone and left to pick up pieces to a life I don’t have. Rock bottom. It’s a phrase I never thought I’d use to describe myself, but it’s the only one that fits.
Ben came back, but he was lost, broken, living daily but not truly living. He has lost his way. Ben has lost alot and now we get to see him struggle to find his way and get on the path to being happy. As I said before I was not a fan of Ben’s, but Ben has redeemed himself with me. After all everyone deserves a second chance Right?
Watching the struggles he went through when he came back, was heartbreaking. To see someone who had so much in his life, had his future all planned out, and slowly little by little everything and the people he loved the most are now gone. I felt his anguish, I felt his heartache. I really FELT for him. We watch Ben throw himself into Alcohol and woman, and it is not a pretty picture that is painted.
“New beginnings. New life.”
Although this is a novella and we do not get to see Ben get his happily ever after yet, what we do see is Ben work to fix himself. He fixed connections that he had lost with the people that matter the most to him. He also got to see how him and Bell met. We get the FULL story of their past. We get to finally see what really went on with him and Bell, and we get to the here and now with them.
I will say this If you were not a fan of Ben’s before you truly should give him a chance. It will be worth it I believe, like I said he is redeeming himself with me in Blurred for sure.
Another Great Job to you Kim, you know how to start a story and pull me in right from the start. I loved Blurred and I can not wait for Frayed and the continuation of Ben and Bell…….
I will admit when Kim first told me she was going to write Ben with his own story I was a little worried about how she was going to be able to redeem him. I like many other’s is not ( or I should say WAS NOT) a fan of Ben’s, that is until this book.
We all met Ben in Connected, We got to know first hand the relationship that he and Dalhia had. When Suddenly Ben had to fake his own death and leave Dahlia to keep her safe. Dalhia had finally moved on when her world came crashing down and all of a sudden Ben was back from the dead. Ben thought Dahlia would be his forever. As we found out that was not the case. Now we see what has become of Ben from his POV.
If there is a moment in time that comes to alter the course of your life forever—mine would be the day Caleb Holt told me I had to disappear. I don’t even know who I am anymore. I’m alone and left to pick up pieces to a life I don’t have. Rock bottom. It’s a phrase I never thought I’d use to describe myself, but it’s the only one that fits.
Ben came back, but he was lost, broken, living daily but not truly living. He has lost his way. Ben has lost alot and now we get to see him struggle to find his way and get on the path to being happy. As I said before I was not a fan of Ben’s, but Ben has redeemed himself with me. After all everyone deserves a second chance Right?
Watching the struggles he went through when he came back, was heartbreaking. To see someone who had so much in his life, had his future all planned out, and slowly little by little everything and the people he loved the most are now gone. I felt his anguish, I felt his heartache. I really FELT for him. We watch Ben throw himself into Alcohol and woman, and it is not a pretty picture that is painted.
“New beginnings. New life.”
Although this is a novella and we do not get to see Ben get his happily ever after yet, what we do see is Ben work to fix himself. He fixed connections that he had lost with the people that matter the most to him. He also got to see how him and Bell met. We get the FULL story of their past. We get to finally see what really went on with him and Bell, and we get to the here and now with them.
I will say this If you were not a fan of Ben’s before you truly should give him a chance. It will be worth it I believe, like I said he is redeeming himself with me in Blurred for sure.
Another Great Job to you Kim, you know how to start a story and pull me in right from the start. I loved Blurred and I can not wait for Frayed and the continuation of Ben and Bell…….
August 4, 2014
BLURRED starts around the time Ben's mom died.
Remember? We read about that in the previous books. Now at her funeral he sees his ex-girlfriend Dahlia again - she's there with her new guy River.
Ben always thought he would spend the rest of his life with Dahlia. But then he had to 'die' to save her from being killed too. Now that he's back and Dahlia's in love with another guy, Ben doesn't really know what to do. Getting drunk and have sex with random girls is not really how he wants to spend his days.
That's why he leaves California and goes to Australia for a while. To fall back in love with surfing.
He gave up his surfing career for Dahlia back when they were still in high school.
And the water is where he's always been the happiest.
In Australia he kind of finds the old Ben again - not the cocky idiot Ben, but the surfing, halfway happy guy - who finally finds his love for words and writing again.
Back in LA for the upcoming trial against the mexican drug people (the research for an article about that got him into the whole mess in the first place!) he needs to find a job and he needs to get his life back on track.
Without Dahlia.
What the fuck have I done with my life - I'm twenty-seven, staying in a shit bag motel with no money and nothing to look forward to.
Then there's Bell - or S'Belle - as he was calling her back in college.
They had a little intense one-night-thing after flirting for weeks - back when he was still with Dahlia.
He felt horribly guilty about that back then - but he just couldn't resist this amazingly beautiful redhead.
But Bell is not the same flirty girl she was in college.
Plus - she's also the sister of the guy his ex Dahlia is in love with now: River Wilde.
Very complicated - BUT - when he meets her again on a reporter-job - he remembers why he never really forgot her...
But with their past, her family connections to his past life, the trial and everything, starting something with her might not be the best way to start a new life.
Plus she doesn't seem to want anything to do with him.
WHAT WiLL HAPPEN TO BEN???
WiLL THERE BE A CLiFFHANGER???
NOPE . . .
I'm not telling you ☺
I don't want to spoil too much . . .
Well - ok - we all know that Ben's story will be continued in the next book Frayed - coming in september - so there might not yet be a HEA!
______________________________
I REALLY LOVED THiS NOVELLA!
I know that many people will not be really excited to read Ben's story - they all blame him for Dahlia's & Belle's unhappiness...
But Kim really made it work. I started crying during the first pages!!!
Everything is so sad and moving and poor Ben - he knows he made some wrong choices and did the wrong things here and there - but even though it cost him the love of his life - he would still do the same thing again if he had to. At least now Dahlia is alive and happy.
Only Ben's not happy - NOT YET!! I really hope he'll get his HEA with Bell in the next book!
He really deserves it - even though many people don't think so!
It's kind of like the Nan-thing in Abbi Glines Rosemary Beach Series. The most hated character gets their own book and their own HEA ☺ I like that!
BLURRED covers many months - basically all the time from the beginning of the Connections Series.
We see and hear about many of our beloved characters - like Dahlia of course and Aerie and her digging into Damon Wolfe's business ...
We hear lots of scenes from Ben's POV and what it was like for him.
And yes - we still don't love him for cheating on Dahlia - but pfff - he probably always felt he wasn't the right guy for her - that River was Dahlia's perfect match - even without knowing him back then ☺ So everything should be perfect now - well not yet, of course - but as soon as he'll get his HEA with Bell in the next book - which will probably not all that easy - but we'll get there ☺
IT REALLY WAS THE PERFECT MOVING & SEXY & INFORMATIVE 'PREQUEL' NOVELLA TO BEN & BELLE'S STORY!
and now PLEASE HURRY - I need to read the next book ASAP!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
June 24, 2014
***Arc received for an honest review**
Everyone deserves a second chance in life. Mistakes are made and people get hurt along the way. Ben made mistakes and yes he hurt people he loved. But it's only fair we give him a chance to explain himself.
I am a Ben fan. Why you ask? Well I think he messed up and did things he shouldn't and he paid a high price for that! To me it makes him more real! His not perfect but that is what makes me like him. Yes, he cheated on Dahl and yes he left her but has anyone stopped to think that he was young when he cheated and he was also pushed to make a decision that wasn't easy for him? Yes that doesn't make it right but who is perfect?
I loved how we get to know more of Ben in this book. He takes you along his story, his pain how he hurts. His choices have broken Ben and he is hurting. Does he deserve it? I don think so! But that's up to you the reader to decide. After reading this book it let's you understand more of him. It made me like him more. I don't know if it's because his a bit broken but I totally loved how he had to go through a lot to get back to where he should be. Life isn't always easy!
We get to feel his pain. We get to know BEN! This is a short read and totally worth taking the time to know the story.. I know everyone loves River but don't close your doors on Ben he has a story and it needs to be heard!
And yes he continue to make mistakes but he learned from them. And I personally believe Ben deserves his HEA! I can't wait till the next book..
Kim your writing is amazing. I am forever a fan of yours and your books!!! You did an amazing job with this part of Ben's story
Everyone deserves a second chance in life. Mistakes are made and people get hurt along the way. Ben made mistakes and yes he hurt people he loved. But it's only fair we give him a chance to explain himself.
I am a Ben fan. Why you ask? Well I think he messed up and did things he shouldn't and he paid a high price for that! To me it makes him more real! His not perfect but that is what makes me like him. Yes, he cheated on Dahl and yes he left her but has anyone stopped to think that he was young when he cheated and he was also pushed to make a decision that wasn't easy for him? Yes that doesn't make it right but who is perfect?
I loved how we get to know more of Ben in this book. He takes you along his story, his pain how he hurts. His choices have broken Ben and he is hurting. Does he deserve it? I don think so! But that's up to you the reader to decide. After reading this book it let's you understand more of him. It made me like him more. I don't know if it's because his a bit broken but I totally loved how he had to go through a lot to get back to where he should be. Life isn't always easy!
We get to feel his pain. We get to know BEN! This is a short read and totally worth taking the time to know the story.. I know everyone loves River but don't close your doors on Ben he has a story and it needs to be heard!
And yes he continue to make mistakes but he learned from them. And I personally believe Ben deserves his HEA! I can't wait till the next book..
Kim your writing is amazing. I am forever a fan of yours and your books!!! You did an amazing job with this part of Ben's story
August 7, 2014
When I learned that we were getting Ben's story I was a bit apprehensive. I was a member of the "Ben Hating" Fan Club but I decided I would go in with an open mind. After all, everyone deserves a second chance. I am so glad I did! At 6% he had already stolen my heart. His story is gritty and raw. There is nothing pretty about what he did and for me that makes him real. Ben made a lot of poor choices but as in real life sometimes hindsight is 20/20. In this story, I felt his growth, his pain, and his need to get his life back on track. I can't wait to read more about his journey in Frayed. Awesome job, Kim. You converted me <3
September 27, 2015
Wow I got half-way in and i cant take it! Im bored out of my freakin mind. I keep taking snack breaks just to get away from this book. If i have another snack break, i wont fit through the front door.
August 21, 2014
Full Review @http://www.abookishescape.com/2014/08...
Girl, No He Didn’t
He very well bloody DID!!! With a finger snap and a double clap my guy Gah!! Okay so now that Dahlia is happy with River I can say this…I LOVE ALEX COVEN!!! Yowza!! So this is a novella about Ben we see snippets of other (amazing wonderful omg I love these) characters! BUT like I said its mostly about him. The darkness Ben was in, where his head was at during his death, and coping with so much loss. I love that Ms Karr gives us his side of the story because let me tell you I really felt for him. He was really weighed down and it really broke my heart.
I wanted to beat him up for what he did to Dahlia but man my heart broke for him when he realized Dahlia was no longer his. He made so many mistakes and one major mistake wasn’t made alone…if you what i mean ;)
Other than that one epic disaster his heart was in the right place he has loved and protected his whole life even though he was the “little brother” Ben loves fiercely and thats just who he is. We get to see many amazing revelations and him having a fresh start was just perfect! Brilliant Ms Karr absolutely spectacular!!
Holy Canoli I BAW-LED GAH!! That ending I KNEW it and THAT PHONE CALL!!
Seriously I cannot stress how amazing this series is. Oh and that wish I made in a previous review…Yep its true and I’m totally loving it! The Connected Series will carve a place in your heart and you will FEEL everything. Ms Karr is a genius she has created a world with complex and beautifully broken characters chalk full of drama and has brought them together seamlessly!! Gah!! Im SO EXCITED about the next YOU HAVE NO IDEA!! well you might have some of an idea. ;)
My Rating
5.0 New York, Funeral, Rehab, Surfing, Jack Daniels, Red Hair, Green eyes, Pearls, Emeralds, Coffee Shop, Journal, Motorcycle, Bars, Phone Call, Promises, Apologies, Special Connection filled stars! Gah this series is so FREAKING good!! Must read! Must Read!
Girl, No He Didn’t
He very well bloody DID!!! With a finger snap and a double clap my guy Gah!! Okay so now that Dahlia is happy with River I can say this…I LOVE ALEX COVEN!!! Yowza!! So this is a novella about Ben we see snippets of other (amazing wonderful omg I love these) characters! BUT like I said its mostly about him. The darkness Ben was in, where his head was at during his death, and coping with so much loss. I love that Ms Karr gives us his side of the story because let me tell you I really felt for him. He was really weighed down and it really broke my heart.
I wanted to beat him up for what he did to Dahlia but man my heart broke for him when he realized Dahlia was no longer his. He made so many mistakes and one major mistake wasn’t made alone…if you what i mean ;)
Other than that one epic disaster his heart was in the right place he has loved and protected his whole life even though he was the “little brother” Ben loves fiercely and thats just who he is. We get to see many amazing revelations and him having a fresh start was just perfect! Brilliant Ms Karr absolutely spectacular!!
Holy Canoli I BAW-LED GAH!! That ending I KNEW it and THAT PHONE CALL!!
Seriously I cannot stress how amazing this series is. Oh and that wish I made in a previous review…Yep its true and I’m totally loving it! The Connected Series will carve a place in your heart and you will FEEL everything. Ms Karr is a genius she has created a world with complex and beautifully broken characters chalk full of drama and has brought them together seamlessly!! Gah!! Im SO EXCITED about the next YOU HAVE NO IDEA!! well you might have some of an idea. ;)
My Rating
5.0 New York, Funeral, Rehab, Surfing, Jack Daniels, Red Hair, Green eyes, Pearls, Emeralds, Coffee Shop, Journal, Motorcycle, Bars, Phone Call, Promises, Apologies, Special Connection filled stars! Gah this series is so FREAKING good!! Must read! Must Read!
August 5, 2014
★★★★★
5 Blurred Stars!
ARC provided by the author for an honest review
Review also posted on Mara’s Bookshelf
“Life presents choices at every curve and it’s the choices we make that pave the way for our future.”
I would start this review by saying I am not a fan of Ben Covington. I don’t necessarily hate him but he’s also not on my favorite persons list. But because I enjoyed the first 4 books in the series, I am more than willing to give Ben a chance. I’m glad I did.
I am always open for authors redeeming their not-so-likeable characters, I’m curious and I’d like to read for myself if the character was redeemable or not. Reading Ben’s story, or a glimpse of it, from Connected was intriguing enough. Now, on Blurred, Kim Karr gave us a more in depth look at who Ben Covington was when he was with Dahlia and is now that he’s back from being “dead”. I think it’s safe to say that this is not a love story. This is a life story. This is Ben’s life story.
We were finally taken to his way of thinking and all the emotions that he’s been dealing with before and after that decision he’s made years ago that changed everything. He’s still not my favorite, I think I need to read more Ben and see him actually rise to the struggle he has with his life but I appreciate being in his thoughts and I now understand him a bit more than I did at the start of the series. It was not easy for me reading his story, I felt the struggle and pain that he was going through. It was obvious how lost he was and that feeling led him to several questionable decisions and actions. I actually felt sad for him. Again, this was not an easy read for me. If you’re asking “why are you giving it a 5 if it wasn’t easy for you?”, I’ll say, “because even though it was difficult, it made me open up my feelings for Ben and his situation and Kim Karr got my attention”.
You will see a broken, confused man searching for his purpose and a new meaning to life. I liked how the Kim did not soften Ben’s edges in this book. She gave us a raw version of him, something that we would be looking forward to for the next book on his happily ever after. Would he have it? How much more struggle would he face to finally reach that finish line for him? So even though Ben is not on top of my love list, I want and am still looking forward to his journey especially since Blurred ended towards that path. Blurred is like an introduction to Frayed which is the next book and will be available on September. Remember earlier when I mentioned Blurred is not exactly a love story? Yes, that’s why. This is a background on Ben’s life, I think this is for us readers to understand Ben before diving into his and Belle’s story. If this is the purpose, then it worked for me.
Stars: 5 stars!
Recommended to: Genuinely curious and open-minded about Ben Covington’s character.
POV: First person. Male POV.
Series: Yes.
Cliffhanger: Not exactly.
Extra Comment:: I understand a lot of readers do not like Ben to the point of hating him. If you consider giving Blurred a whirl, try to look at the bigger picture and step back for a while so Ben can stand a chance to redeem himself or for you to at least enjoy yourself a bit. But if not, it’s okay. We can’t all enjoy the same book. :)
5 Blurred Stars!
ARC provided by the author for an honest review
Review also posted on Mara’s Bookshelf
“Life presents choices at every curve and it’s the choices we make that pave the way for our future.”
I would start this review by saying I am not a fan of Ben Covington. I don’t necessarily hate him but he’s also not on my favorite persons list. But because I enjoyed the first 4 books in the series, I am more than willing to give Ben a chance. I’m glad I did.
I am always open for authors redeeming their not-so-likeable characters, I’m curious and I’d like to read for myself if the character was redeemable or not. Reading Ben’s story, or a glimpse of it, from Connected was intriguing enough. Now, on Blurred, Kim Karr gave us a more in depth look at who Ben Covington was when he was with Dahlia and is now that he’s back from being “dead”. I think it’s safe to say that this is not a love story. This is a life story. This is Ben’s life story.
We were finally taken to his way of thinking and all the emotions that he’s been dealing with before and after that decision he’s made years ago that changed everything. He’s still not my favorite, I think I need to read more Ben and see him actually rise to the struggle he has with his life but I appreciate being in his thoughts and I now understand him a bit more than I did at the start of the series. It was not easy for me reading his story, I felt the struggle and pain that he was going through. It was obvious how lost he was and that feeling led him to several questionable decisions and actions. I actually felt sad for him. Again, this was not an easy read for me. If you’re asking “why are you giving it a 5 if it wasn’t easy for you?”, I’ll say, “because even though it was difficult, it made me open up my feelings for Ben and his situation and Kim Karr got my attention”.
You will see a broken, confused man searching for his purpose and a new meaning to life. I liked how the Kim did not soften Ben’s edges in this book. She gave us a raw version of him, something that we would be looking forward to for the next book on his happily ever after. Would he have it? How much more struggle would he face to finally reach that finish line for him? So even though Ben is not on top of my love list, I want and am still looking forward to his journey especially since Blurred ended towards that path. Blurred is like an introduction to Frayed which is the next book and will be available on September. Remember earlier when I mentioned Blurred is not exactly a love story? Yes, that’s why. This is a background on Ben’s life, I think this is for us readers to understand Ben before diving into his and Belle’s story. If this is the purpose, then it worked for me.
Stars: 5 stars!
Recommended to: Genuinely curious and open-minded about Ben Covington’s character.
POV: First person. Male POV.
Series: Yes.
Cliffhanger: Not exactly.
Extra Comment:: I understand a lot of readers do not like Ben to the point of hating him. If you consider giving Blurred a whirl, try to look at the bigger picture and step back for a while so Ben can stand a chance to redeem himself or for you to at least enjoy yourself a bit. But if not, it’s okay. We can’t all enjoy the same book. :)
August 6, 2014
5 HUGE BEN LOVING Stars
Amazon|Goodreads
Meg's Review:
I was unsure coming into this book about my feeling for Ben. I am one of the odd-readers-out who kinds felt bad for him in the big picture, so I was interested to see how I would feel once we got his story. I am SO glad that Kim wrote this. This is the story after the fact, the in-between for Ben. His story of starting to heal and how he got there. I think without this Novella, those people on the fence, may stay on the fence. This gives you a look into all of the things that happened to bring Ben to the point of Frayed. A Must Read for this series if you want the whole experience. (And trust me, You do.)
Favorite Quote: Looking out there, I know this is where I need to be, on the water. . . the one place that makes me happy.
Ok, this books starts off with Ben being broken. He has hit rock bottom and it is a dark place to be. He is Angry, Hurt, Broken, and full of regret for the decision he has made, even still knowing there were his only choice. He had two choices, "Die", or risk Dahl's life and his because of all that he uncovered. He knows deep down that he did what he needed to, but that doesn't help the fact that in doing so, he lost everything. His Love, His Life, and most recently? His Mother. She was his rock and without her, he is just drifting with no destination in sight.
This book leaves nothing in the dark. All the secrets and the bad is thrown out on the table with the good and the healing. You see all the sides of Ben's struggles. I love this fact. I wanted to see it all, I wanted the opportunity to see him give himself a chance at redemption. After all, he deserves a second chance. When I say nothing is left out, I mean you see the gritty parts of him rebuilding right along with the great. You see him at his worst making stupid decisions. Those parts though, those are the parts that show you deep into Ben, they let you see the real man. He is raw and broken and his decisions show this. If you are expecting a happy go lucky novella, this again. This is an emotional read about forgiveness and finding a new path in life once your old isn't an option anymore. He needs to find his happy. Lucky for him an emerald Eyed Red Head seems to be in this new path. I did say you got some light mixed in with the dark didn't I? Well that light is an equally angry spitfire with her own things to face. Don't worry though, Mrs.Karr doesn't tease us too much. This is a Must Read for the series. A Definite Five Star. I'll just leave you with this little teaser to insure to just right over and One-Click this novel:
I swear if I didn't know any better I might think she wants me just as much as I want her.
August 5, 2014
Blurred
By: Kim Karr
5 gut-wrenching ☆☆☆☆☆'s
From the first page of the story it already had my emotions bouncing off the wall. The pain that Ben was feeling was excruciating. Losing a loved one is not something I can handle and imagining myself in his shoes, I just couldn't, it's heart breaking, gut wrenching and I wouldn't know what to do with myself.
Ben gets drunk and comes home and fall downward into unconsciousness, becomes dead to the world. It was his routine in the beginning to erase all the bad things that had happened around him, atleast that's what he thought would help him forget. I didn't like the fact that it was his way of tackling his problems, but who am I to judge when knowing for a fact that what he's been through was so horrible. So drinking was him trying to put himself out his misery. It's his way of numbing all the pain and sorrow he was dealt with.
Trying to change his way of life wasn't easy. He did his best to better himself. He had to find his old self or else he would end up losing everyone he had left. I so believe in karma and what he did to Dahl was unacceptable, I'm so against cheating. Now he hates the fact that what he did to Dahl was wrong. Everyday of his life, there wasn't a time that he did not think of the guilt and the pain he had caused Dahl. I don't condone on cheating, not one bit. BUT when you read Ben's story, you'll get to know and understand where he's coming from and will change how you see him and feel about him.
This book just pulled me in and had me so emotional and wrecked after reading Ben's story. I wish the choices he made was different, but no one is perfect, he's only human after all. We all have the power over depression...from personal experience and it wasn't easy to overcome. Some people could go suicidal or some could just turn to someone else worse than anyone could ever think of. Feeling all alone in the world, thinking that everything you touch, you destroy. And that it's the end of the world, is pretty much what you will feel when you are buried deep into the black hole. Some people aren't strong enough to rise from depression, but some are, it's just the process that needs patience. I totally loved this book. KIM KARR you've done it again and I will always keep coming back for more.
By: Kim Karr
5 gut-wrenching ☆☆☆☆☆'s
From the first page of the story it already had my emotions bouncing off the wall. The pain that Ben was feeling was excruciating. Losing a loved one is not something I can handle and imagining myself in his shoes, I just couldn't, it's heart breaking, gut wrenching and I wouldn't know what to do with myself.
Ben gets drunk and comes home and fall downward into unconsciousness, becomes dead to the world. It was his routine in the beginning to erase all the bad things that had happened around him, atleast that's what he thought would help him forget. I didn't like the fact that it was his way of tackling his problems, but who am I to judge when knowing for a fact that what he's been through was so horrible. So drinking was him trying to put himself out his misery. It's his way of numbing all the pain and sorrow he was dealt with.
Trying to change his way of life wasn't easy. He did his best to better himself. He had to find his old self or else he would end up losing everyone he had left. I so believe in karma and what he did to Dahl was unacceptable, I'm so against cheating. Now he hates the fact that what he did to Dahl was wrong. Everyday of his life, there wasn't a time that he did not think of the guilt and the pain he had caused Dahl. I don't condone on cheating, not one bit. BUT when you read Ben's story, you'll get to know and understand where he's coming from and will change how you see him and feel about him.
This book just pulled me in and had me so emotional and wrecked after reading Ben's story. I wish the choices he made was different, but no one is perfect, he's only human after all. We all have the power over depression...from personal experience and it wasn't easy to overcome. Some people could go suicidal or some could just turn to someone else worse than anyone could ever think of. Feeling all alone in the world, thinking that everything you touch, you destroy. And that it's the end of the world, is pretty much what you will feel when you are buried deep into the black hole. Some people aren't strong enough to rise from depression, but some are, it's just the process that needs patience. I totally loved this book. KIM KARR you've done it again and I will always keep coming back for more.
August 5, 2014
Blurred and Frayed by Kim Karr are most likely the most anticipated books in The Connections series. Blurred is the novella that leads the readers down a new path in Ben Covington’s life. The readers will get to meet the real Ben Covington. They will get a chance to experience his actions, indiscretions, his betrayal, his resurrection from death, and his heartbreak.
Ben Covington has arisen from the dead. After faking his death three years earlier to protect the ones he loved when he exposed a high profile criminal network, Ben is anxious to return to his real life. When returns everything, and I mean everything has changed. His fiancé has moved forward in life and is now marrying another man. His family has fallen apart. His mother died suddenly from a fatal stroke. His career is in the pits. His life is hanging in limbo until he testifies against those that destroyed his life.
Ben Covington is lost. He no longer knows who he is, how to find a new direction in life, and how to move forward. He is wrapped up in guilt and self disgust. He will struggle daily trying to find his way. Drinking soothes the pain. Countless women help pass the time. He will hit rock bottom and that will be his only salvation.
Once he hits rock bottom he will take a long hard look at his life. He will strive to make changes. He will face the betrayals he inflicted on others. He will open his eyes to new opportunities, new friends, and new career goals. He will strengthen his relationships with family and friends. He will reunite with the one indiscretion that he has never forgot. This may be the one bright thing in his new life that will motivate him to move forward and let go of what should have been.
Blurred is an emotional story that will give the readers a new opinion of Ben Covington. It the previous books Ben Covington did not look so good. He hurt the people he loved the most. He betrayed his fiancé. He seemed like an egotistical, self centered man with a drive to reach the top. But as the old saying goes, there are two sides to every coin. Personally I loved this side of the coin. Ben Covington is a complex man with a very good soul.
Blurred will let us see the true Ben Covington. I look forward to Frayed, the full length novel, releasing on September 2, 2014. Ben Covington is moving forward and conquering his new life.
August 6, 2014
I think I may be in the small minority that didn't have any reservations about Ben in this series. I always felt Ben was a lot of things beautiful, intelligent, misguided, and yes also a jerk. After reading Blurred we learn that there is much more to Ben then meets the eye. As the old saying goes there is always two sides to every story. Ben's is bittersweet to say the least. If he didn't make some of the choices he made, then River and Dahlia wouldn't be together. So, yeah, Ben was always good in my book.
What we learn that a series of events has led Ben Covington's life into a tailspin. If you have read the previous books which I'm assuming you have them you know these said events were both heartbreaking and catastrophic. One thing I learned that I didn't quite realize is that Ben has a lot of people who want the best for him. His family and friends would bend over backwards for him. There also is something called tough love. Which Ben got a healthy and well needed dose of. Rock bottom that's what we see Ben experience in this book. Sometimes bottom is the only place to go. That was the only place for Ben to go. There was nothing else for him until he got his life back on track. Ben takes you on a highly emotional journey. When everything is said and done can he be forgiven, but most importantly can he forgive himself?
This novella is packed with all the missing pieces of Ben's life. You may think that Ben was selfish and narcissistic, but he is also brave and devoted. He has a huge heart and most important of all he is loyal to his commitments. Like many Ben loved and lost. He also moved on. He isn't just a pretty face and he has so much to offer in his worth. Did I like this side of Ben? No, I loved it beyond words! This complicated and interesting journey we are taken on in Blurred is a necessity. I get him, I really get him. I feel for him and I want him to be happy and loved. I think he deserves it!
Kim Karr has a way of carefully weaving a story straight to your soul. Her characters speak to you. They become a part of you. Reading her books have become such a wonderful experience. If you have enjoyed the other books in the series and want more than I highly recommend reading Blurred. This truly is the beginning of something beautiful!
What we learn that a series of events has led Ben Covington's life into a tailspin. If you have read the previous books which I'm assuming you have them you know these said events were both heartbreaking and catastrophic. One thing I learned that I didn't quite realize is that Ben has a lot of people who want the best for him. His family and friends would bend over backwards for him. There also is something called tough love. Which Ben got a healthy and well needed dose of. Rock bottom that's what we see Ben experience in this book. Sometimes bottom is the only place to go. That was the only place for Ben to go. There was nothing else for him until he got his life back on track. Ben takes you on a highly emotional journey. When everything is said and done can he be forgiven, but most importantly can he forgive himself?
This novella is packed with all the missing pieces of Ben's life. You may think that Ben was selfish and narcissistic, but he is also brave and devoted. He has a huge heart and most important of all he is loyal to his commitments. Like many Ben loved and lost. He also moved on. He isn't just a pretty face and he has so much to offer in his worth. Did I like this side of Ben? No, I loved it beyond words! This complicated and interesting journey we are taken on in Blurred is a necessity. I get him, I really get him. I feel for him and I want him to be happy and loved. I think he deserves it!
Kim Karr has a way of carefully weaving a story straight to your soul. Her characters speak to you. They become a part of you. Reading her books have become such a wonderful experience. If you have enjoyed the other books in the series and want more than I highly recommend reading Blurred. This truly is the beginning of something beautiful!
July 17, 2014
Do you believe that everyone deserves a second chance? I know for me, if people are doing the right thing for themselves, then yes most definitely they deserve a second chance.
I knew I was going to give Ben Covington a second chance during the book Torn but I was interested to see if he was going to keep that gift I was offering him. As I read Blurred, I realized that Ben Covington did indeed deserve to keep that second chance I was awarding him. After we learned of his cheating on Dahlia and how he faked his death, I was also interested to see how he was going to redeem himself. Although we don't get the love story in Blurred, we do get the back story and current story of Ben Covington. I felt like I got to walk in his shoes with him and I have to say besides him being a total HOTTIE, I fell in love with him. I do love River but I think I completely fell head over heels for BEN COVINGTON. Kim Karr wrote this beautiful story to make us realize that Ben wasn't a bad person but he was truly finding himself, which I found honorable after he felt like he had nothing left.
You might be asking yourself why did I give him another chance after the cheating, death faking, and what he did to Dahlia, and why I spent my time reading this story, well the answer is simple everyone has done things in life that they reflect on and know are bad but they look towards the future and how they can better themselves. This is exactly what Ben does despite a few road bumps ahead. Yes, Ben struggled in this book but you get flashbacks of how he used to be and where he is now and what brought him to this point. I believe this is a very redeeming story line for Ben. We do get a little interaction with Ben and Bell but this is not their full story, you will have to wait for Frayed due out later 2014.
If you have read the rest of the Connection series DO NOT be hesitant on reading this story. If helps tie things together from Connected and Torn and trust me when I say "YOU WILL LOVE BEN COVINGTON WHOLE HEARTILY WHEN YOU ARE DONE READING THIS NOVELLA."
I hope you enjoy this book as much as I did and KIM KARR you are a fabulous author that captures my attention every time I read one of your books. Keep writing because I will definitely keep reading. I can't wait for the rest of the connection series.
#benandbelltrain
I knew I was going to give Ben Covington a second chance during the book Torn but I was interested to see if he was going to keep that gift I was offering him. As I read Blurred, I realized that Ben Covington did indeed deserve to keep that second chance I was awarding him. After we learned of his cheating on Dahlia and how he faked his death, I was also interested to see how he was going to redeem himself. Although we don't get the love story in Blurred, we do get the back story and current story of Ben Covington. I felt like I got to walk in his shoes with him and I have to say besides him being a total HOTTIE, I fell in love with him. I do love River but I think I completely fell head over heels for BEN COVINGTON. Kim Karr wrote this beautiful story to make us realize that Ben wasn't a bad person but he was truly finding himself, which I found honorable after he felt like he had nothing left.
You might be asking yourself why did I give him another chance after the cheating, death faking, and what he did to Dahlia, and why I spent my time reading this story, well the answer is simple everyone has done things in life that they reflect on and know are bad but they look towards the future and how they can better themselves. This is exactly what Ben does despite a few road bumps ahead. Yes, Ben struggled in this book but you get flashbacks of how he used to be and where he is now and what brought him to this point. I believe this is a very redeeming story line for Ben. We do get a little interaction with Ben and Bell but this is not their full story, you will have to wait for Frayed due out later 2014.
If you have read the rest of the Connection series DO NOT be hesitant on reading this story. If helps tie things together from Connected and Torn and trust me when I say "YOU WILL LOVE BEN COVINGTON WHOLE HEARTILY WHEN YOU ARE DONE READING THIS NOVELLA."
I hope you enjoy this book as much as I did and KIM KARR you are a fabulous author that captures my attention every time I read one of your books. Keep writing because I will definitely keep reading. I can't wait for the rest of the connection series.
#benandbelltrain
August 8, 2014
I don't know what to say other than I really don't like Ben any better, honestly. Maybe it will become more apparent in the next book, but I am not certain why I needed to know a lot of this information. The timeline was a bit confusing, and about 25% in the editing mistakes became abundant. There were missing commas, and a couple of missing words in sentences changing their meaning completely. For example, when Ben checked into the extended stay hotel it said there was grim on the door number rather than grime. A huge pet peeve of mine was witnessed where the phrase of 'curiosity peaked' was used instead of 'curiosity piqued.' There were a few other things I highlighted as well.
Unfortunately, I didn't anticipate liking this book, but was hoping I would. It was just ok. All it managed to do was reinforce my disdain for Ben's character. While he did show some compassion for others here and there, he really was quite selfish and obnoxious for the entire book. Thinking things like he didn't want Ruby to talk to him about her issues because he wasn't looking to fill a girlfriend roll in her life. What a dick thing to think. I will read the next book, I just think the author has a huge task of redeeming this character for some of us. I am ok with the idea he may not be redeemed in my eyes, I still am intrigued and want to know how this works out. The connection between Ben and Bell was there. I get they had a very primal attraction to one another that seems to have survived over the past several years, but I still don't know how to reconcile that he cheated on Dahlia, who he loved so much. Like, we heard over and over how much he had loved her and how much he had needed her in life. Then, his attempts to get her back in the second book got desperate, so he seemed to believe Dahlia belonged with him, in spite of all he had done.
I get people can love more than 1 person, and there are different types of love you can feel for people, but his actions really made me not trust him at all to know to do what is right or in the best interest of the people he cares about. I also still have issues thinking about the fact that Ben and Belle being together is uncomfortable for River and his family and Dahlia. A bit too close of a family.
Unfortunately, I didn't anticipate liking this book, but was hoping I would. It was just ok. All it managed to do was reinforce my disdain for Ben's character. While he did show some compassion for others here and there, he really was quite selfish and obnoxious for the entire book. Thinking things like he didn't want Ruby to talk to him about her issues because he wasn't looking to fill a girlfriend roll in her life. What a dick thing to think. I will read the next book, I just think the author has a huge task of redeeming this character for some of us. I am ok with the idea he may not be redeemed in my eyes, I still am intrigued and want to know how this works out. The connection between Ben and Bell was there. I get they had a very primal attraction to one another that seems to have survived over the past several years, but I still don't know how to reconcile that he cheated on Dahlia, who he loved so much. Like, we heard over and over how much he had loved her and how much he had needed her in life. Then, his attempts to get her back in the second book got desperate, so he seemed to believe Dahlia belonged with him, in spite of all he had done.
I get people can love more than 1 person, and there are different types of love you can feel for people, but his actions really made me not trust him at all to know to do what is right or in the best interest of the people he cares about. I also still have issues thinking about the fact that Ben and Belle being together is uncomfortable for River and his family and Dahlia. A bit too close of a family.
August 5, 2014
I think I went into Blurred much like anyone who has been reading the Connections Series by Kim Karr, skeptical. I mean how am I supposed to understand and love Ben after some of the stuff that he pulled on Dahlia. I know most of it he did with good intentions but honestly he was not a character I was super excited to read. Now that being said I did not come out of this novella fully loving him and I still do not completely understand him BUT I am super excited to know more in Frayed. This story is not to tell all of Ben’s story but instead getting a chance to look into his past and see him at his darkest helps you feel closer to him even when he is making some awful decisions.
Blurred is told both in the present and flashing back through the past few years. You get to see parts of him at different stages in his story but my favorites are when we get to see Ben and Bell together. I honestly thought it would be hard to see Ben with anyone other than Dahlia but it is clear that although they each served a valuable role in both their lives they are just not meant to be and everyone deserves a chance to be happy, even Ben. Here is where it get tricky, Ben and Bell met in college (yeah when he was with Dahlia) and now years later Dahlia is married to River . . . Bell’s brother. Lordy I love a soap opera story!
While this is not a typical romance read it is a bit of insight into these characters before we all get to delve into the full force love story that I hope will be Frayed. I love this series and with every book I read I love it more and more. While Ben is not easy to love he is so much easier to understand now and I can see that I will be falling for him in Frayed (which I plan on starting as soon as I finish writing this review because I just NEED to know what happens next!) This really is a great novella and anyone who has been reading this series is not going to want to miss out on this story!
~miranda
Blurred is told both in the present and flashing back through the past few years. You get to see parts of him at different stages in his story but my favorites are when we get to see Ben and Bell together. I honestly thought it would be hard to see Ben with anyone other than Dahlia but it is clear that although they each served a valuable role in both their lives they are just not meant to be and everyone deserves a chance to be happy, even Ben. Here is where it get tricky, Ben and Bell met in college (yeah when he was with Dahlia) and now years later Dahlia is married to River . . . Bell’s brother. Lordy I love a soap opera story!
While this is not a typical romance read it is a bit of insight into these characters before we all get to delve into the full force love story that I hope will be Frayed. I love this series and with every book I read I love it more and more. While Ben is not easy to love he is so much easier to understand now and I can see that I will be falling for him in Frayed (which I plan on starting as soon as I finish writing this review because I just NEED to know what happens next!) This really is a great novella and anyone who has been reading this series is not going to want to miss out on this story!
~miranda
August 18, 2014
**CONTAINS SPOILERS FROM CONNECTED & TORN**
BLURRED was a great introduction to Ben Covington. The man that threatened fan favorite couple Dahlia and River’s happiness. I will admit that although I’ve always been Team River when it comes to Dahlia, I always liked Ben. I like his way with words and how he is brash yet honest at the same time. He is not perfect. And I think at the beginning of this novella, he himself realized that. He wasn’t the golden child that he thought he was. He wasn’t a noble guy that did the right thing. He wasn’t the guy that got the girl – or at least the girl he thought he wanted.
Instead, he was the guy that came back from the dead to a less than stellar reception. He was the guy that people shunned because of the choices he made in life. He was the guy that lost it all. However, since he is Ben Covington, he knew he needed to figure out what was next in life. After returning from a self-discovery trip in Australia, Ben gets some focus…sort of. However, by chance, fate puts him in the path of S’Belle Wilde. The girl who he risked everything for. The girl he hasn’t been able to forget.
This is the story of how Ben came to terms with the choices he made in life and began to start making amends. This is the story of him picking up the pieces of his life and creating a new life for himself. Maybe it wasn’t the life he originally wanted, but it was the life he wanted to live. And along the way, he soon realizes he wants S’Belle again. And that maybe, just maybe there was a reason he was with her all those years ago.
What I enjoyed most about this novella was the brut honesty of Ben’s voice. By the end, I was rooting for him and couldn’t wait for his happily ever after. He may not get it completely in this novella, but he is definitely on his way. Kim Karr did a fantastic job of turning a character who some hated, into a character who you could understand and ultimately, root for.
BLURRED was a great introduction to Ben Covington. The man that threatened fan favorite couple Dahlia and River’s happiness. I will admit that although I’ve always been Team River when it comes to Dahlia, I always liked Ben. I like his way with words and how he is brash yet honest at the same time. He is not perfect. And I think at the beginning of this novella, he himself realized that. He wasn’t the golden child that he thought he was. He wasn’t a noble guy that did the right thing. He wasn’t the guy that got the girl – or at least the girl he thought he wanted.
Instead, he was the guy that came back from the dead to a less than stellar reception. He was the guy that people shunned because of the choices he made in life. He was the guy that lost it all. However, since he is Ben Covington, he knew he needed to figure out what was next in life. After returning from a self-discovery trip in Australia, Ben gets some focus…sort of. However, by chance, fate puts him in the path of S’Belle Wilde. The girl who he risked everything for. The girl he hasn’t been able to forget.
This is the story of how Ben came to terms with the choices he made in life and began to start making amends. This is the story of him picking up the pieces of his life and creating a new life for himself. Maybe it wasn’t the life he originally wanted, but it was the life he wanted to live. And along the way, he soon realizes he wants S’Belle again. And that maybe, just maybe there was a reason he was with her all those years ago.
What I enjoyed most about this novella was the brut honesty of Ben’s voice. By the end, I was rooting for him and couldn’t wait for his happily ever after. He may not get it completely in this novella, but he is definitely on his way. Kim Karr did a fantastic job of turning a character who some hated, into a character who you could understand and ultimately, root for.
March 18, 2015
Kim has done it again. I can't get over how she can just pull me in with a few words. Her writing is amazing and the way she delivers the story; I feel as if I am in the story.
"If there is a moment in time that comes to alter the course your life forever - mine would be the day Caleb Holt told me I had to disappear. I don't even know who I am anymore."
Ben, I have always liked him. Don't kill me for saying that. He made his mistakes and that is what attracts me to his character. In this story Ben was trying to just figure everything out. His life changed so much when he left Dahlia and then he had no idea what to do. This is what I loved most about the story. There was nothing easy; he had no money and was very lost. How do you fit back into your old life when you have nothing left? How do you come back from the dead?
This book was the beginning of Ben's journey. One that was not easy and was filled with Ben trying to fill the empty voids that were now in his life. He spent his time trying to get a job, sleeping with countless women. There was a time that he was just living day by day.
"I stare at the plaster peeling from the ceiling and watch the fan blades moving around as I try to stop my mind from thinking about how I ended up here. It wanders and I mentally scold myself for allowing myself any form of self-pity."
Ben has a journey ahead of him. He needs to find a way out of how is living right now. Thoughts of Dahlia run through his mind. How he knew that he lost her and can't get her back. He also thinks of S'Belle constantly. He tries to understand the choices that he made when he cheated on Dahl with her. The times that he now has to deal with Belle and how he is not sure why she hates him so much.
Finally Ben gets it. He needs to stop with his current behavior and make peace with the past; learn to move forward with his life. I hope you enjoy this novella as much as I did.
August 10, 2014
More Reviews Here: Readers Live A Thousand Lives
I really really like this series, but I’m not going to lie that I struggled with this one. I’ve never been Ben’s biggest fan, so reading an entire story from his point of view took some adjustment. I didn’t come to love him right away and I’m not even sure I really love him even after finishing the novella, but I do have a lot of hope for him so I am definitely ready for Frayed.
See I think my biggest struggle with Ben was that he was kind of an asshole. I get that he is trying to put his life together, but I still had a tough time liking him at points. He just makes some decisions that really angered me. Also, we flash back to the cheating moment and I just could not get on board with why he did it. Like really? You are a guy and couldn’t help yourself? I’m sorry that’s not an excuse and just because Dahlia ended up happy with her life, it doesn’t make what he did okay. So really this was a tough point for me, but I’m still willing to give Ben a shot since I’m sure Kim Karr has something up her sleeve.
Despite some of my grievances I did like the story and I do think it will be good to know the backstory when I read Frayed. Also, this one tied together some missing pieces from Mended. I had a few “oh that’s what happened” moments, which was a lot of fun. Ben had a tough journey to go thorough and I think it was good we got to see Ben come through it and grow. Getting to know him was very interesting and it’s good to know he isn’t completely horrendous, he is just lost right now, and I can’t fully blame him.
All in all, Blurred is a good novella. Even with my issues I really enjoyed it and I’m sure fans of the series will enjoy it.
I really really like this series, but I’m not going to lie that I struggled with this one. I’ve never been Ben’s biggest fan, so reading an entire story from his point of view took some adjustment. I didn’t come to love him right away and I’m not even sure I really love him even after finishing the novella, but I do have a lot of hope for him so I am definitely ready for Frayed.
See I think my biggest struggle with Ben was that he was kind of an asshole. I get that he is trying to put his life together, but I still had a tough time liking him at points. He just makes some decisions that really angered me. Also, we flash back to the cheating moment and I just could not get on board with why he did it. Like really? You are a guy and couldn’t help yourself? I’m sorry that’s not an excuse and just because Dahlia ended up happy with her life, it doesn’t make what he did okay. So really this was a tough point for me, but I’m still willing to give Ben a shot since I’m sure Kim Karr has something up her sleeve.
Despite some of my grievances I did like the story and I do think it will be good to know the backstory when I read Frayed. Also, this one tied together some missing pieces from Mended. I had a few “oh that’s what happened” moments, which was a lot of fun. Ben had a tough journey to go thorough and I think it was good we got to see Ben come through it and grow. Getting to know him was very interesting and it’s good to know he isn’t completely horrendous, he is just lost right now, and I can’t fully blame him.
All in all, Blurred is a good novella. Even with my issues I really enjoyed it and I’m sure fans of the series will enjoy it.
August 5, 2014
I was on the fence about Ben Covington. It's hard to forgive a cheater. I can't imagine one who comes back from faking his own death either. Ben got to me in Blurred. I can safely say that I love Ben Covington.
Ben didn't have things easy in making a comeback. He had his work cut out for him in getting back into a normal life. There were several scenes that had me worried about the decisions that he made as he was on a downward spiral. I was emotional as I wanted him to get back on the right path and start a new life.
Always on his mind was Bell. Did he deserve to be with Bell? Did she deserve to be with someone like him with her secrets that she had? I found myself hoping for a reunion and wondering if such a reunion did happen, would there be too many bumps along the way?
The Ben we meet is not the same guy from Connected and Torn. More things happen to him along the way. A lot of questions that I had about him get answered. Blurred didn't leave me on the fence about him. Don't get me wrong, I love River Wilde. I have from the beginning! But Ben gave him a run for his money and I couldn't wait to dig my claws into Frayed.
Blurred gets 5 HUGE stars. Ben's story captivated me and absolutely fits into this series. There is no doubt in my mind that people can make comebacks from choices made earlier in life.
Ben didn't have things easy in making a comeback. He had his work cut out for him in getting back into a normal life. There were several scenes that had me worried about the decisions that he made as he was on a downward spiral. I was emotional as I wanted him to get back on the right path and start a new life.
Always on his mind was Bell. Did he deserve to be with Bell? Did she deserve to be with someone like him with her secrets that she had? I found myself hoping for a reunion and wondering if such a reunion did happen, would there be too many bumps along the way?
The Ben we meet is not the same guy from Connected and Torn. More things happen to him along the way. A lot of questions that I had about him get answered. Blurred didn't leave me on the fence about him. Don't get me wrong, I love River Wilde. I have from the beginning! But Ben gave him a run for his money and I couldn't wait to dig my claws into Frayed.
Blurred gets 5 HUGE stars. Ben's story captivated me and absolutely fits into this series. There is no doubt in my mind that people can make comebacks from choices made earlier in life.
Want to read
April 9, 2014Cover Reveal & Excerpt! ---> http://www.bookreviewbay.com/2014/04/...
A Connection Series Novella featuring Ben Covington
The story before the love story….
When he lost the only woman he’d ever loved, it seemed there was nothing left to live for.
Even as a boy, all Ben Covington ever wanted was to spend forever with Dahlia London, the beautiful girl next door...then one life-altering decision tore them apart and he was forced to leave her.
Now, despite having returned to win her back, he’s still alone. She’s with someone else—someone she’s never going to leave.
Resigned to a future without his former girlfriend, Ben numbs his broken heart in a haze of liquor and women. But then the only woman who ever even turned his head while he was with his girl reappears unexpectedly. And he’s never forgotten their one incredible night together. But will Ben’s destructive behavior destroy his future with her before it even begins?
Release Date: August 5th, 2014
A Connection Series Novella featuring Ben Covington
The story before the love story….
When he lost the only woman he’d ever loved, it seemed there was nothing left to live for.
Even as a boy, all Ben Covington ever wanted was to spend forever with Dahlia London, the beautiful girl next door...then one life-altering decision tore them apart and he was forced to leave her.
Now, despite having returned to win her back, he’s still alone. She’s with someone else—someone she’s never going to leave.
Resigned to a future without his former girlfriend, Ben numbs his broken heart in a haze of liquor and women. But then the only woman who ever even turned his head while he was with his girl reappears unexpectedly. And he’s never forgotten their one incredible night together. But will Ben’s destructive behavior destroy his future with her before it even begins?
Release Date: August 5th, 2014
August 5, 2014
I was never a fan of Ben from the previous books in this series--I hated him interfering with my River and Dahlia. But Blurred completely changed my liking of him! There is so much heartbreak and pain that Ben was going through.
I truly believe everyone deserves a second chance and Ben Convington is no exception. He always wanted to do what was right. Sure he made some mistakes in his life, but he ended up paying for it. But even when he hit "rock bottom," he came to realize how much stronger he is and that life is giving him this chance to make it better.
I love how this book was written, we get flashbacks of what really happened with his "death" and parts of his first meeting with S'belle. Along with other key events that we didn't know about while reading Connected and Torn.
I absolutely love Ben and I'm hoping he eventually finds his own HEA--especially with S'belle. Those two really have a chemistry and I can't wait to read more about their soon-to-be relationship in Frayed.
So all you not fans of Ben from the past, I can guaranteed you'll be adding Ben Convington as a top book boyfriend after Blurred. He will easily sneak into your heart!
I truly believe everyone deserves a second chance and Ben Convington is no exception. He always wanted to do what was right. Sure he made some mistakes in his life, but he ended up paying for it. But even when he hit "rock bottom," he came to realize how much stronger he is and that life is giving him this chance to make it better.
I love how this book was written, we get flashbacks of what really happened with his "death" and parts of his first meeting with S'belle. Along with other key events that we didn't know about while reading Connected and Torn.
I absolutely love Ben and I'm hoping he eventually finds his own HEA--especially with S'belle. Those two really have a chemistry and I can't wait to read more about their soon-to-be relationship in Frayed.
So all you not fans of Ben from the past, I can guaranteed you'll be adding Ben Convington as a top book boyfriend after Blurred. He will easily sneak into your heart!
August 18, 2014
This is a book I’m not quite sure how to review. I’m actually sitting here, trying to figure out what to tell you about Blurred by Kim Karr. In no way am I saying this book is bad. It’s good. Maybe I’m most confused because it’s not a love story like the rest of the Connections series. It’s not what I expected. But that’s what makes it so good.
This is Ben’s story. It’s filling in all the blanks of what happened throughout the other books. It’s necessary. I don’t think the series could continue without this book. It’s all Ben. It’s him telling his story in the past with flashbacks and in the present. It’s not a happy love story with some angst in it. This is dark and gritty. It’s also healing. You see Ben heal. You see his demons and him working through them. It’s not easy. This book is not easy.
I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, Kim Karr does an amazing job with novellas. She puts so much information into them but you don’t feel rushed. It feels complete. And I feel like that is an amazing skill and one not every author has.
~Katie
This is Ben’s story. It’s filling in all the blanks of what happened throughout the other books. It’s necessary. I don’t think the series could continue without this book. It’s all Ben. It’s him telling his story in the past with flashbacks and in the present. It’s not a happy love story with some angst in it. This is dark and gritty. It’s also healing. You see Ben heal. You see his demons and him working through them. It’s not easy. This book is not easy.
I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, Kim Karr does an amazing job with novellas. She puts so much information into them but you don’t feel rushed. It feels complete. And I feel like that is an amazing skill and one not every author has.
~Katie
August 25, 2014
BORING with a capital B...I cannot believe that this book has as many strong reviews as it does. I am a huge fan of the Connections series, but this one was "skim-worthy" at best. Most, if not all, of Ben's journaling from the book was in the previous books...so why do we need to read it again? I suppose if anything I like the connections between the characters, but I'm honestly over Ben's drama and self-destruction. It appears that Bell and Ben will get their own book in "Frayed" but I'm incredibly apprehensive to read it if this book tells anything about their relationship. Such a typical "forbidden love that we cannot stay away from." Very unoriginal and I hope that the future books are better than this one.
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August 12, 2014I'm going to have to DNF. I have very limited time to read these days so I want to choose books that are interesting to me and keep me wanting to read from beginning to end. Unfortunately this just wasn't one of those.
I've never particularly liked Ben in the previous books and this one was no different. I don't like him and that will probably never change.
As always, Kim's writing is brilliant, this story just wasn't for me.
*ARC provided by NetGalley on behalf of Penguin in turn for an honest review.*
I've never particularly liked Ben in the previous books and this one was no different. I don't like him and that will probably never change.
As always, Kim's writing is brilliant, this story just wasn't for me.
*ARC provided by NetGalley on behalf of Penguin in turn for an honest review.*
August 10, 2014
I loved it! I wasn't a big fan of Ben in the previous books, but it was really good to get his perspective and learn more of his story. Yes, Ben has made a number of mistakes, but he has also had to make a number of very difficult decisions. He returned to a life where everything had changed and he lost himself. The struggle that Ben goes through following his return was really well-written. I loved his interactions with Bell! I'm looking forward to seeing what Ben does next!
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