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Collision
When eighteen-year-old Kara Jones gets into a car accident on the way home from college, she’s left with more than a few bruised ribs, a busted cell phone, and a totaled car. After a slip-up at the hospital, she’s shaken to discover that her family isn’t all it seems. And now her mother’s strange behavior and willingness to do anything to protect her secrets—including pulling Kara out of school—have Kara floundering in the dark.
Enter Derek Miller, a former classmate who’s dealing with family issues of his own. His nerdy charm is too much for Kara to resist, and she’s even more amazed when he agrees to help her dig into her mother’s past. Together they investigate her mother’s old friends and boyfriends, hoping to discover who Kara really is. Instead, they find disturbing connections to the dark history of Kent State University, and an ever expanding maze of mystery surrounding Kara’s birth.
As Kara and Derek chase secrets, she realizes he’s the only person she can trust. But as they get closer to the truth, the disturbing answers reveal a web of evil far darker and further reaching than they’d imagined, leaving Kara to wish she’d never asked the questions in the first place, and to wonder if some secrets are better left untold…
Enter Derek Miller, a former classmate who’s dealing with family issues of his own. His nerdy charm is too much for Kara to resist, and she’s even more amazed when he agrees to help her dig into her mother’s past. Together they investigate her mother’s old friends and boyfriends, hoping to discover who Kara really is. Instead, they find disturbing connections to the dark history of Kent State University, and an ever expanding maze of mystery surrounding Kara’s birth.
As Kara and Derek chase secrets, she realizes he’s the only person she can trust. But as they get closer to the truth, the disturbing answers reveal a web of evil far darker and further reaching than they’d imagined, leaving Kara to wish she’d never asked the questions in the first place, and to wonder if some secrets are better left untold…
207 pages, ebook
First published April 30, 2014
22 people are currently reading
1131 people want to read
About the author
Kate L. Mary
89 books796 followersI'm a mom of four, Air Force wife, and author of adult and young adult dystopian, post-apocalyptic, and science fiction. I love intense world building and character driven stories that feature strong female leads - as well as a side of romance - and any end of the world scenario. Zombies, aliens, a distant future where people have no clue how the world ended in the first place, you name it, I will create a story there!
Having lived in a lot of different places after more than a decade as an Air Force wife, I love setting my books in cities I've actually lived in to give them authenticity. I've resided in: Indiana, Georgia, Mississippi, South Carolina, California, and Oklahoma but am currently back in my home state of Ohio where I live with my husband, four kids, two dogs, and three cats.
When I'm not writing, you can find me by my pool (in the summer), getting lost in some binge-worthy show or at a play with my husband, patronizing one of the great restaurants in my small town of Troy, Ohio with my family, or traveling. I want to see everything and make a point of visiting a new place every year!
Some of my favorite books are The Hunger Games, Pride and Prejudice, The Host, and The Stand. My favorite movies are Aliens, Jaws, Signs, Say Anything, Everything Everywhere All At Once, and The Greatest Showman.
Awards:
Outliers
Winner in the 2018 Kindle Books Awards for Sci-Fi/Fantasy Fiction
B.R.A.G.Medallion Honoree
Finalist in the 2018 Wishing Shelf Book Awards For Adult Fiction
Top 10 Finalist in the Author Academy Awards for Sci-Fi/Fantasy Fiction
Cover Finalist in the 2019 RONE Awards from InD'tale Magazine
When We Were Human
2015 Children's Moonbeam Awards Silver Medal winner for Young Adult Fantasy/Sci-Fi Fiction
2016 Readers' Favorite Gold Medal Winner for Young Adult Science Fiction
Tribe of Daughters
Winner in the 2020 RONE Awards for Time Travel/Science Fiction
Bronze Medal Winner in the 2019 Readers' Favorite Book Awards for Science Fiction
Honorable Mention in the 2018 SPR Book Awards
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KateLMaryauthor
BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/kate-...
Website: http://KateLMary.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zombieautho...
Amazon US: https://www.amazon.com/Kate-L.-Mary/e...
Amazon UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Kate-L.-Mary...
Newsletter: https://landing.mailerlite.com/webfor...
Having lived in a lot of different places after more than a decade as an Air Force wife, I love setting my books in cities I've actually lived in to give them authenticity. I've resided in: Indiana, Georgia, Mississippi, South Carolina, California, and Oklahoma but am currently back in my home state of Ohio where I live with my husband, four kids, two dogs, and three cats.
When I'm not writing, you can find me by my pool (in the summer), getting lost in some binge-worthy show or at a play with my husband, patronizing one of the great restaurants in my small town of Troy, Ohio with my family, or traveling. I want to see everything and make a point of visiting a new place every year!
Some of my favorite books are The Hunger Games, Pride and Prejudice, The Host, and The Stand. My favorite movies are Aliens, Jaws, Signs, Say Anything, Everything Everywhere All At Once, and The Greatest Showman.
Awards:
Outliers
Winner in the 2018 Kindle Books Awards for Sci-Fi/Fantasy Fiction
B.R.A.G.Medallion Honoree
Finalist in the 2018 Wishing Shelf Book Awards For Adult Fiction
Top 10 Finalist in the Author Academy Awards for Sci-Fi/Fantasy Fiction
Cover Finalist in the 2019 RONE Awards from InD'tale Magazine
When We Were Human
2015 Children's Moonbeam Awards Silver Medal winner for Young Adult Fantasy/Sci-Fi Fiction
2016 Readers' Favorite Gold Medal Winner for Young Adult Science Fiction
Tribe of Daughters
Winner in the 2020 RONE Awards for Time Travel/Science Fiction
Bronze Medal Winner in the 2019 Readers' Favorite Book Awards for Science Fiction
Honorable Mention in the 2018 SPR Book Awards
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KateLMaryauthor
BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/kate-...
Website: http://KateLMary.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zombieautho...
Amazon US: https://www.amazon.com/Kate-L.-Mary/e...
Amazon UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Kate-L.-Mary...
Newsletter: https://landing.mailerlite.com/webfor...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 78 reviews
September 3, 2019
☽ I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. ☽
5 AMAZING stars.
Collision is a book full of twists and turns, an intense mystery full of family drama, romance and secrets that blow your mind.
~Disclaimer, this is a read you should start blind, without reading the blurb or any of the reviews, i think they take away some of the amazingness .~
The story begins with Kara waking up after being in a car accident and learning some life changing news. We follow her as she tries to cope and get to the truth with the help of her friend Derek.
I must say when we finally found out the secret i was like this
I liked Kara as a character, i didn't love her but i felt for her. I think Kate L.Mary delivered perfectly all the confusion Kara must have been feeling, but still made her look confident and strong.
Derek *dreamy sigh* was such a great character. I loved how he stood by Kara throughout this book, even though he had his own demons to deal with. I loved how protective and what a gentleman he was with her, it's good to read about those from time to time.
I really i mean REALLY loved JJ please don't judge much i think he was an amazing character. I wish we could see more of him. Maybe in a sequel ?
Overall i adored this story. I think what's thilling but also really terrifying with this book is it could happen, it could happen to any of us. I would definitely recommend this book cause it was such a great read. I'm sure lots of you will enjoy it.
5 AMAZING stars.
Collision is a book full of twists and turns, an intense mystery full of family drama, romance and secrets that blow your mind.
~Disclaimer, this is a read you should start blind, without reading the blurb or any of the reviews, i think they take away some of the amazingness .~
The story begins with Kara waking up after being in a car accident and learning some life changing news. We follow her as she tries to cope and get to the truth with the help of
I must say when we finally found out the secret i was like this
I liked Kara as a character, i didn't love her but i felt for her. I think Kate L.Mary delivered perfectly all the confusion Kara must have been feeling, but still made her look confident and strong.
Derek *dreamy sigh* was such a great character. I loved how he stood by Kara throughout this book, even though he had his own demons to deal with. I loved how protective and what a gentleman he was with her, it's good to read about those from time to time.
I really i mean REALLY loved JJ
Overall i adored this story. I think what's thilling but also really terrifying with this book is it could happen, it could happen to any of us. I would definitely recommend this book cause it was such a great read. I'm sure lots of you will enjoy it.
October 12, 2014
>>> I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. <<<
OH MY GOD. What can I say about this book? It was AMAZING! Seriously! I can't explain how much I enjoyed this book! I read it in less than a day, I was so drawn , that I didn't want to keep it out of my sight.
This story is about Kara, a girl who just had a car accident & because of that finds out something that changes her life. There's a lot of family drama & while she's trying to cope with the new facts, she meets Derek. An old schoolmate who used to be a nerd and turned out to be a hottie now. I have to say that Derek is officially a new book boyfriend. He was PERFECT! Funny, witty, nerdy, hot, a true gentleman and he was there whenever she needed him. I can't find a flaw , seriously.
I don't want to spoil anything, so I'll just say that I loved that the story had a lot of suspense, agony and mystery somehow. I wanted to know if she would find out the truth. And when she did, wow. Even though, I saw this coming, I couldn't believe the whole background around that. I mean seriously, the last chapters of the book had me reading with my breath caught.
I hope that after this epilogue, we'll be having a sequel, because just a book wasn't enough. Plus we need more Derek ;)
OH MY GOD. What can I say about this book? It was AMAZING! Seriously! I can't explain how much I enjoyed this book! I read it in less than a day, I was so drawn , that I didn't want to keep it out of my sight.
This story is about Kara, a girl who just had a car accident & because of that finds out something that changes her life. There's a lot of family drama & while she's trying to cope with the new facts, she meets Derek. An old schoolmate who used to be a nerd and turned out to be a hottie now. I have to say that Derek is officially a new book boyfriend. He was PERFECT! Funny, witty, nerdy, hot, a true gentleman and he was there whenever she needed him. I can't find a flaw , seriously.
I don't want to spoil anything, so I'll just say that I loved that the story had a lot of suspense, agony and mystery somehow. I wanted to know if she would find out the truth. And when she did, wow. Even though, I saw this coming, I couldn't believe the whole background around that. I mean seriously, the last chapters of the book had me reading with my breath caught.
I hope that after this epilogue, we'll be having a sequel, because just a book wasn't enough. Plus we need more Derek ;)
August 29, 2016
Actual rating - 3.5
A decent read.
A decent read.
July 26, 2016
3 Don't Go Looking For Trouble Stars
A copy was provided by the author to read and review for an honest review. Thank You!
Wow. This was definitely an interesting read at the start and towards the ending. I wasn't sure which way to rate this.
So, the story starts strong and the last 20% was definitely a bit thrilling, however, my concerns were with the in-between parts. I felt like the story lacked in depth in the middle. I felt like the characters were a bit selfish, immature and did stupid things at times. Also, I didn't feel the love connection with the couple nor did I like how their relationship was so instant. For me, it was unbelievable when the I Love You's came in to play. I also don't feel like Derek fully heals or copes properly with his own issues.
What I liked
1. Very fast paced story.
2. Something seemed to be happening all the time to keep your interest.
3. The synopsis draws you to the story.
4. Interesting twist on the story line, which for me was not something I was used to reading. Definitely a different and interesting idea.
5. The beginning started off strong and had me feeling emotional.
6. The last portion of the book was definitely interesting and thrilling.
7. I felt a bit nervous for a few moments for Kara in the epilogue. However, I was elated my worst fear didn't come into play.
8. I actually enjoyed that this book was all from Kara's pov.
9. I liked that Derek was pretty supportive, especially when Kara was only thinking of her own woe is me moments.
This was one of those stories that could totally be true and creepy if you think about it. It's a scary nest of wasps one should never disturb as you may get stung and never recover. Kara was warned multiple times to let things be however, that wasn't in her nature. She should have let the past stay buried in the past. She definitely put herself and her family through the motions, as well as Derek.
I believe by Kara doing what she did, it left the door wide open for the author to make a book 2. With the way the book ends, I wouldn't doubt there will be a second book.
A copy was provided by the author to read and review for an honest review. Thank You!
Wow. This was definitely an interesting read at the start and towards the ending. I wasn't sure which way to rate this.
So, the story starts strong and the last 20% was definitely a bit thrilling, however, my concerns were with the in-between parts. I felt like the story lacked in depth in the middle. I felt like the characters were a bit selfish, immature and did stupid things at times. Also, I didn't feel the love connection with the couple nor did I like how their relationship was so instant. For me, it was unbelievable when the I Love You's came in to play. I also don't feel like Derek fully heals or copes properly with his own issues.
What I liked
1. Very fast paced story.
2. Something seemed to be happening all the time to keep your interest.
3. The synopsis draws you to the story.
4. Interesting twist on the story line, which for me was not something I was used to reading. Definitely a different and interesting idea.
5. The beginning started off strong and had me feeling emotional.
6. The last portion of the book was definitely interesting and thrilling.
7. I felt a bit nervous for a few moments for Kara in the epilogue. However, I was elated my worst fear didn't come into play.
8. I actually enjoyed that this book was all from Kara's pov.
9. I liked that Derek was pretty supportive, especially when Kara was only thinking of her own woe is me moments.
This was one of those stories that could totally be true and creepy if you think about it. It's a scary nest of wasps one should never disturb as you may get stung and never recover. Kara was warned multiple times to let things be however, that wasn't in her nature. She should have let the past stay buried in the past. She definitely put herself and her family through the motions, as well as Derek.
I believe by Kara doing what she did, it left the door wide open for the author to make a book 2. With the way the book ends, I wouldn't doubt there will be a second book.
Read
January 7, 2016I sincerely hope everyone enjoys reading it as much as I enjoyed writing it. Thanks for the support!
August 1, 2014
"Open your eyes." His lips brush against my forehead and move down to my nose. "Something happened before you made that phone call. Something we never got to talk about. I told you I loved you." ~ Derek Miller
Kara Jones lives the life many nineteen year olds live, her home and her parents are her safe place. She's a daddy's girl, and even though her mom is kind of annoyingly overprotective, she clearly knows both parents love her.
All that changes on a snowy winter night while Kara is driving home from her first semester at Ohio University. Her car skids off the icy road and crashes into a tree. Kara is rescued and taken to the hospital emergency room. And that's where the story really begins. Kara's life falls apart after these words come from her nurses mouth. "Kara's adopted?" Those two words send Kara's life spiraling out of control.
Both mom and dad try to explain it away as an mistake, of course she wasn't adopted. But guess what? Blood types don't lie and Kara's parent's blood types don't match hers.
When Kara is released from the hospital, dad has moved out and mom is being super secretive. It does not make for a happy Christmas holiday. It's anything but happy and nobody's talking about what happened at the hospital.
Kara knows something's up. Dads moved out. He won't even look at Kara's mom, and Kara starts asking questions. She comes to find out the man she thought was her father for the first nineteen years of her life isn't her actual dad. Her very proper and uptight mother had an affair and got pregnant while she and the man Kara knows as her dad were "on a break". Don't you just love that? Apparently even parents do that too.
Kara begins questioning her mother about her "real dad", only to hit a wall every time she asks. Her mother keeps telling her there are some things that should be kept secret. Obviously this puts a huge strain on their relationship. Even worse, her dad has suddenly fallen off the face of the earth. He's not answering his phone or Kara's texts. At this point Kara decides she's going to find who her real father is whether anyone helps her or not.
About this time Kara meets Derek Miller. For some strange reason, Kara feels incredibly at ease around Derek. As it turns out, Derek and Kara went to high school together and he's always "had it bad" for Kara as he adorably puts it. Puberty was very good to Derek. He's grown into a super hottie.
Derek and Kara have instant chemistry and for someone who was on the nerdish side in high school, the boy has some serious moves. Their relationship is filled with sexual tension. Yes Derek Miller is a hot book boyfriend.
Using pictures Kara found from her mother, the internet, Kara's determination and Derek's MIT worthy brain, the two embark on a journey to uncover the identity of Kara's real dad.
Derek has his own story and secrets. He's been deeply wounded by tragedy. So as much as he's helping Kara, Kara is also helping him. They're a kind of balm for each other and even though they've only just met, their connection is intense.
As Kara and Derek continue their quest to find her real father, their relationship grows stronger. I know you want to know if they find Kara's biological father. I say biological because somewhere along the way Kara realizes the man who raised her is her actual dad. So, yes, she finds her biological dad, and no I didn't ruin it because the shock of who her father is, is the wtf moment??
This is a really good suspenseful story, and I love Derek and Kara together. They're just such a solid couple for two people who are really young. When Derek tells her he can see them together forever I swooned. Their chemistry is not only sexy, but they are also playful. It brings some levity to a suspenseful story.
I'm giving Collison a four lip smack review. A good storyline with a love story built in. I have a feeling a part two is coming and I can't wait!!!
Kara Jones lives the life many nineteen year olds live, her home and her parents are her safe place. She's a daddy's girl, and even though her mom is kind of annoyingly overprotective, she clearly knows both parents love her.
All that changes on a snowy winter night while Kara is driving home from her first semester at Ohio University. Her car skids off the icy road and crashes into a tree. Kara is rescued and taken to the hospital emergency room. And that's where the story really begins. Kara's life falls apart after these words come from her nurses mouth. "Kara's adopted?" Those two words send Kara's life spiraling out of control.
Both mom and dad try to explain it away as an mistake, of course she wasn't adopted. But guess what? Blood types don't lie and Kara's parent's blood types don't match hers.
When Kara is released from the hospital, dad has moved out and mom is being super secretive. It does not make for a happy Christmas holiday. It's anything but happy and nobody's talking about what happened at the hospital.
Kara knows something's up. Dads moved out. He won't even look at Kara's mom, and Kara starts asking questions. She comes to find out the man she thought was her father for the first nineteen years of her life isn't her actual dad. Her very proper and uptight mother had an affair and got pregnant while she and the man Kara knows as her dad were "on a break". Don't you just love that? Apparently even parents do that too.
Kara begins questioning her mother about her "real dad", only to hit a wall every time she asks. Her mother keeps telling her there are some things that should be kept secret. Obviously this puts a huge strain on their relationship. Even worse, her dad has suddenly fallen off the face of the earth. He's not answering his phone or Kara's texts. At this point Kara decides she's going to find who her real father is whether anyone helps her or not.
About this time Kara meets Derek Miller. For some strange reason, Kara feels incredibly at ease around Derek. As it turns out, Derek and Kara went to high school together and he's always "had it bad" for Kara as he adorably puts it. Puberty was very good to Derek. He's grown into a super hottie.
Derek and Kara have instant chemistry and for someone who was on the nerdish side in high school, the boy has some serious moves. Their relationship is filled with sexual tension. Yes Derek Miller is a hot book boyfriend.
Using pictures Kara found from her mother, the internet, Kara's determination and Derek's MIT worthy brain, the two embark on a journey to uncover the identity of Kara's real dad.
Derek has his own story and secrets. He's been deeply wounded by tragedy. So as much as he's helping Kara, Kara is also helping him. They're a kind of balm for each other and even though they've only just met, their connection is intense.
As Kara and Derek continue their quest to find her real father, their relationship grows stronger. I know you want to know if they find Kara's biological father. I say biological because somewhere along the way Kara realizes the man who raised her is her actual dad. So, yes, she finds her biological dad, and no I didn't ruin it because the shock of who her father is, is the wtf moment??
This is a really good suspenseful story, and I love Derek and Kara together. They're just such a solid couple for two people who are really young. When Derek tells her he can see them together forever I swooned. Their chemistry is not only sexy, but they are also playful. It brings some levity to a suspenseful story.
I'm giving Collison a four lip smack review. A good storyline with a love story built in. I have a feeling a part two is coming and I can't wait!!!
February 20, 2015
3.5 stars
After a car accident, 18-year old Kara finds out her dad is not her biological father. When her mother refuses to reveal the true identity of this man, Kara takes matters into her own hands and goes looking for him. What she uncovers turns her life upside down.
There is a lot to like about Collision, namely learning who Kara’s biological father is, and trying to process this upsetting new reality along with her. But the other part is the sweet budding romance between Kara and Derek. It was refreshing that Derek was not a typical New Adult genre man-whore. The relationship between the two builds at a nice pace, and in a way that was realistic and enjoyable. We are teased with sexy moments between the two, but much of the intimacy if left up to the reader’s imagination. It kept the focus on the mystery instead of the romance.
On the downside: At times Kara acted like a spoiled brat by being completely disrespectful to her mother and remaining unsympathetic towards her even after she uncovers the truth. There seemed no end to it, and her repeated behavior rubbed me raw at times.
Additionally, I was confused why so much detail was put into passing characters Dex, Mitch and Debbie during Derek and Kara’s visit to Kent, as well as the emphasis placed on the repeated failed attempts to see Dr. Hilton. Although interesting, the importance of these characters to the overall plot didn’t seem to gel with the amount of storyline they took up. Maybe that will be revealed in the sequel? (If there is one.)
The author impressed me with many passages of well-written connective writing: During a trip to the drug store, Kara picks out a box of condoms, and I could literally feel this scene as if I were there myself. I was embarrassed and uncomfortable with Kara. And by far, the best scene for me was when Kara and Derek meet Dr. Anne Rohr. The facts revealed and the dialogue between the characters was so tight and interesting, it captured my attention like no other part of the story.
Collision was easy to read and follow, had an interesting plot and likeable characters. I would definitely read more of Kate L. Mary’s work.
**I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
After a car accident, 18-year old Kara finds out her dad is not her biological father. When her mother refuses to reveal the true identity of this man, Kara takes matters into her own hands and goes looking for him. What she uncovers turns her life upside down.
There is a lot to like about Collision, namely learning who Kara’s biological father is, and trying to process this upsetting new reality along with her. But the other part is the sweet budding romance between Kara and Derek. It was refreshing that Derek was not a typical New Adult genre man-whore. The relationship between the two builds at a nice pace, and in a way that was realistic and enjoyable. We are teased with sexy moments between the two, but much of the intimacy if left up to the reader’s imagination. It kept the focus on the mystery instead of the romance.
On the downside: At times Kara acted like a spoiled brat by being completely disrespectful to her mother and remaining unsympathetic towards her even after she uncovers the truth. There seemed no end to it, and her repeated behavior rubbed me raw at times.
Additionally, I was confused why so much detail was put into passing characters Dex, Mitch and Debbie during Derek and Kara’s visit to Kent, as well as the emphasis placed on the repeated failed attempts to see Dr. Hilton. Although interesting, the importance of these characters to the overall plot didn’t seem to gel with the amount of storyline they took up. Maybe that will be revealed in the sequel? (If there is one.)
The author impressed me with many passages of well-written connective writing: During a trip to the drug store, Kara picks out a box of condoms, and I could literally feel this scene as if I were there myself. I was embarrassed and uncomfortable with Kara. And by far, the best scene for me was when Kara and Derek meet Dr. Anne Rohr. The facts revealed and the dialogue between the characters was so tight and interesting, it captured my attention like no other part of the story.
Collision was easy to read and follow, had an interesting plot and likeable characters. I would definitely read more of Kate L. Mary’s work.
**I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
October 13, 2014
I received a copy from the author in exchange for an honest review.
I liked very much the book. I didn't realize until I finished it that this was the debut book of Ms Kate L. Mary, which makes me looking forward to her future books, definitely an author on whom to keep an eye on.
A car accident has the impact of a bomb over Kara's life, as she is not only badly wounded, but she discovers, through one young nurse's indiscretion, that her family is not at all what it seemed, her father with whom she has a special relationship is not her biological father. It is the secret that brought to light blows up a happy family, her father leaves, her mother refuses any explanation as well as revealing her biological father's identity and Kara finds herself in a lonely and gloomy world with the unique desire and resolve of bringing light and responses to her relentless questions. If there is one bright side to the debacle, is this desperate situation that brings Kara to cross path with Derek-a former classmate-and find love (sweet and steamy) and constant support on her quest. The quest for answers brings both Kara and Derek a new maturity, some questions should be better left not answered if one cannot live with the answers...
I loved the story and the manner in which the author told it-reading the book built images that turned like a movie in front of my mind's eyes, building up the story and entwining the love story with the mystery, making the book a definite page turner.
Yes, Kara and Derek fall for each other a little bit too fast, but there were special circumstances that played for both of them and yes, I was able to guess who the father was and that something terrible was hiding behind all the secrecy, but still, the book was extremely enjoyable for me, reason for which I give it five stars. The final seems open, so I hope to see these characters in a future book.
I liked very much the book. I didn't realize until I finished it that this was the debut book of Ms Kate L. Mary, which makes me looking forward to her future books, definitely an author on whom to keep an eye on.
A car accident has the impact of a bomb over Kara's life, as she is not only badly wounded, but she discovers, through one young nurse's indiscretion, that her family is not at all what it seemed, her father with whom she has a special relationship is not her biological father. It is the secret that brought to light blows up a happy family, her father leaves, her mother refuses any explanation as well as revealing her biological father's identity and Kara finds herself in a lonely and gloomy world with the unique desire and resolve of bringing light and responses to her relentless questions. If there is one bright side to the debacle, is this desperate situation that brings Kara to cross path with Derek-a former classmate-and find love (sweet and steamy) and constant support on her quest. The quest for answers brings both Kara and Derek a new maturity, some questions should be better left not answered if one cannot live with the answers...
I loved the story and the manner in which the author told it-reading the book built images that turned like a movie in front of my mind's eyes, building up the story and entwining the love story with the mystery, making the book a definite page turner.
Yes, Kara and Derek fall for each other a little bit too fast, but there were special circumstances that played for both of them and yes, I was able to guess who the father was and that something terrible was hiding behind all the secrecy, but still, the book was extremely enjoyable for me, reason for which I give it five stars. The final seems open, so I hope to see these characters in a future book.
May 12, 2014
3.75 stars
Kara has an accident, and in a moment, her life changes. Faced with the reality that all is not how it should be with her family. Her dad moves out, and her mother refuses to tell her anything. She meets Derek, who she went to high school with, and together they set off on a journey of discovery, but like the tag line says, some secrets are better left untold. . . .
i'm not sure i liked Kara! she came across as a bit of a whiney teenager and i wanted to slap her in the beginning, HOWEVER once the stort starts to develop she does come across a little better. Dealing with his loss Derek is perfect for her. The tale does take a while to get going, and it seemed long winded when Kara was digging around and going from person to person.
Once you know what the secret is, or rather WHO, its all over, for me and the epilogue was one i saw coming, after she had been to visit said secret.
written in the first person, present tense, its not my favourite but still, not a bad tale about why you should let things be.
Kara has an accident, and in a moment, her life changes. Faced with the reality that all is not how it should be with her family. Her dad moves out, and her mother refuses to tell her anything. She meets Derek, who she went to high school with, and together they set off on a journey of discovery, but like the tag line says, some secrets are better left untold. . . .
i'm not sure i liked Kara! she came across as a bit of a whiney teenager and i wanted to slap her in the beginning, HOWEVER once the stort starts to develop she does come across a little better. Dealing with his loss Derek is perfect for her. The tale does take a while to get going, and it seemed long winded when Kara was digging around and going from person to person.
Once you know what the secret is, or rather WHO, its all over, for me and the epilogue was one i saw coming, after she had been to visit said secret.
written in the first person, present tense, its not my favourite but still, not a bad tale about why you should let things be.
October 11, 2014
I received Collision in exchange for an honest review. This is the hardest review I have written so far. How do I explain how much I loved this book without revealing everything?!?!?! Ugh! Here's my third attempt.
Kara is a young college student whose life is completely altered after a horrible car accident while returning home on break. But the most debilitating wounds aren't physical. A nurse inadvertently reveals a secret that rips the family apart and leaves Kara questioning everything.
Derek is the epitome of geek gone gorgeous after high school. With tragedies of his own, Derek supports Kara in her search for truth.
Collision is a perfectly blended mixture of romance and mystery all of which was completely realistic, it could happen to you. I loved every twist and turn. If not for the responsibilities of my own life, I easily could have read this book in one sitting. Each page had me anticipating the turn of the next one. I am dying for the next installment because the end left me so very wanting.
Kara is a young college student whose life is completely altered after a horrible car accident while returning home on break. But the most debilitating wounds aren't physical. A nurse inadvertently reveals a secret that rips the family apart and leaves Kara questioning everything.
Derek is the epitome of geek gone gorgeous after high school. With tragedies of his own, Derek supports Kara in her search for truth.
Collision is a perfectly blended mixture of romance and mystery all of which was completely realistic, it could happen to you. I loved every twist and turn. If not for the responsibilities of my own life, I easily could have read this book in one sitting. Each page had me anticipating the turn of the next one. I am dying for the next installment because the end left me so very wanting.
May 14, 2014
Collision by Kate L. Mary is a lesson in “Be careful of the questions you ask”. I read this book in one day because I just could not put it down. Even though I figured out whom Kara’s father was, I was not prepared for the shocker that came. It is hard to trust your parents when you know they are keeping a secret that affects you. Derek provides the strong shoulder she needs to lean on in her search for the truth. You can almost feel the heat coming off of these two whenever they are close together. Derek’s history and the chivalry he shows will make you develop a crush on him. Don’t get your hopes up though; he only has eyes for Kara.
I give this book 4 heartfelt stars. These characters were very developed and the storyline will make you question how you would react if the same thing was to happen to you. Kate L. Mary writes an awesome story and I would happily read anything she writes. This book is a good read that I believe everyone would enjoy.
I give this book 4 heartfelt stars. These characters were very developed and the storyline will make you question how you would react if the same thing was to happen to you. Kate L. Mary writes an awesome story and I would happily read anything she writes. This book is a good read that I believe everyone would enjoy.
July 3, 2014
Unique storyline. The relationship between Derek and Kara develops quickly, but is still believable. The sequence of events spurring from one small things is amazing - like the domino eddect on steroids. All of the things in this book could really happen, so I was very drawn-in to the story. Once the entire truth is revealed, you sympathize with Kara's mother. While lying may not have been the correct response, it is an understandable one. I really one Greg, her dad. He is a very good man and you are reaffirmed of this several times. I also liked that Derek didn't sleep with Kara that first (or second, for that matter) night. He has been through a lot and understood her pain, but was also a gentleman. Refreshing to have two good men in this story - thank you!
ARC provided on exchange for honest review.
ARC provided on exchange for honest review.
October 5, 2014
I really enjoyed the suspense that Kate L. Mary created in this story. I was on edge the entire time while reading, I finished it in one day! Derek had to be my favorite character, very laid back, and was a natural gentleman. Kate L. Mary put a new fresh twist on questions you think you want answers too, then once you find out you cannot un-know the answer. I had suspicion of who I thought Kara's biological father could be, but who he really is, is the biggest shocker! The book had an epilogue, but I still think there's more to the story. Maybe Derek's POV? Fingers crossed :)
I received this book from the author for an HONEST review.
I received this book from the author for an HONEST review.
September 26, 2014
I really enjoyed this book. It had some very interesting plots. I didn't expect the book to end where it did. I'm guessing there's going to be a book 2? I hope so! I have to know what happens when Kara goes back to visit with her real dad, what he confesses and what happens between her and Derek.
June 6, 2017
Original
I like the authors inventive plots. This one starts with a far-fetched premise, which only makes sense as the story develops. Interesting characters. Fast pace. Intriguing ending with the nature v. nurture question squarely in front.
I like the authors inventive plots. This one starts with a far-fetched premise, which only makes sense as the story develops. Interesting characters. Fast pace. Intriguing ending with the nature v. nurture question squarely in front.
September 27, 2014
Collision combines two of my favorite things: the new adult genre and mystery/suspense. Unfortunately, I had to work this week, or I would have read the novel in one sitting. (I received a copy from the author on Monday, through a “read and review it” thread on Goodreads.) In general, it’s a fast-paced read that held my attention, giving me characters and a storyline to care about.
After sustaining multiple injuries in a car accident, Kara Jones (our protagonist) learns a startling family secret. This new information launches her on a search for the truth…and right into the arms of Derek Miller.
While their relationship escalates quickly, I found it to be believable. Derek had admired Kara from afar during high school, and, having had crushes of my own during those formative years, I know how long-lasting and powerful they can be. I mean, he admits to attending every football game to see her cheer, which I thought was incredibly sweet. It struck me, too, that although the two ran in different social circles—she was popular and he wasn’t—Kara made a lasting impression on Derek due to her kindness:
“You said hi to me every morning and whenever you caught me staring—which was a lot—you smiled. You didn’t make me feel bad for thinking you were pretty. You didn’t act like I wasn’t good enough for you. You treated me like a person. That was the most I could have hoped for back then.”
As for Kara, her high school boyfriend (Bill) set the bar pretty low, so it seems clear to me that she’s ripe for a healthy, mutually beneficial relationship.
And speaking of exes…I’m really confused by Steph’s role in the novel. At first, Derek won’t even disclose her name, and I don’t fully understand the reason behind his secrecy. Does he know they’ll run into her during their trip to Kent? Is that why he’s so willing to go? Since we don’t ever hear from Derek’s point of view, I struggled to get a grasp on his feelings toward her. We know, through her conversation with Kara, that Steph was in love with Derek. But we don’t know whether he returned those feelings…right?
His dialogue and actions aren’t entirely helpful either. In the coffee shop, he tells Kara, “I don’t like her being so pissed at me. I didn’t do anything to her. She broke up with me.” But in a subsequent scene, Kara narrates: “Steph’s appearance has done something to Derek. He had his arm around me before she showed up, but now that she’s here he can’t seem to stop touching me.” Does this stem from an effort to make Steph jealous? Or is this Derek’s way of demonstrating that he’s serious about Kara—to her, to Steph, or perhaps to both of them?
The novel’s epilogue seems to lend itself to a sequel. If so, maybe Steph will make an appearance and, in doing so, answer some of my questions. Or maybe not. Maybe a sequel would focus entirely on furthering what Kara has learned about her parents. Either way, I would jump at the chance to read more from Kate L. Mary.
Additional thoughts:
I find it refreshing that Kara knows she is attractive: “I’m not ashamed to say I think I’m pretty. It’s confidence, not vanity.” For better or for worse, it has become commonplace in new adult reads for female protagonists to be insecure about or oblivious to their own good looks. Frankly, I never quite know how to picture this type of character, because the girl’s perception of her outward appearance is at odds with others’ perceptions of the same thing. In Collision, I appreciate the straightforward manner in which Kara is described.
Another thing I appreciate about the novel is its humor. Despite its more serious subject matter, I liked the flirtation, teasing, and jokes that pass between Kara and Derek. Furthermore, Kara’s ongoing uncertainty when it comes to Dex’s sexual preferences is really funny.
Finally, I have to address this line from Steph: “You can’t seriously tell me you like him. You were a cheerleader in high school.” Really? I understand what she’s going for here, but as an AP student, I’d expect her to move beyond superficial labels and/or stereotypes, and to evaluate someone based on more than a single high-school-based affiliation. (I had really strong feelings when it came to Steph. Can you tell?)
After sustaining multiple injuries in a car accident, Kara Jones (our protagonist) learns a startling family secret. This new information launches her on a search for the truth…and right into the arms of Derek Miller.
While their relationship escalates quickly, I found it to be believable. Derek had admired Kara from afar during high school, and, having had crushes of my own during those formative years, I know how long-lasting and powerful they can be. I mean, he admits to attending every football game to see her cheer, which I thought was incredibly sweet. It struck me, too, that although the two ran in different social circles—she was popular and he wasn’t—Kara made a lasting impression on Derek due to her kindness:
“You said hi to me every morning and whenever you caught me staring—which was a lot—you smiled. You didn’t make me feel bad for thinking you were pretty. You didn’t act like I wasn’t good enough for you. You treated me like a person. That was the most I could have hoped for back then.”
As for Kara, her high school boyfriend (Bill) set the bar pretty low, so it seems clear to me that she’s ripe for a healthy, mutually beneficial relationship.
And speaking of exes…I’m really confused by Steph’s role in the novel. At first, Derek won’t even disclose her name, and I don’t fully understand the reason behind his secrecy. Does he know they’ll run into her during their trip to Kent? Is that why he’s so willing to go? Since we don’t ever hear from Derek’s point of view, I struggled to get a grasp on his feelings toward her. We know, through her conversation with Kara, that Steph was in love with Derek. But we don’t know whether he returned those feelings…right?
His dialogue and actions aren’t entirely helpful either. In the coffee shop, he tells Kara, “I don’t like her being so pissed at me. I didn’t do anything to her. She broke up with me.” But in a subsequent scene, Kara narrates: “Steph’s appearance has done something to Derek. He had his arm around me before she showed up, but now that she’s here he can’t seem to stop touching me.” Does this stem from an effort to make Steph jealous? Or is this Derek’s way of demonstrating that he’s serious about Kara—to her, to Steph, or perhaps to both of them?
The novel’s epilogue seems to lend itself to a sequel. If so, maybe Steph will make an appearance and, in doing so, answer some of my questions. Or maybe not. Maybe a sequel would focus entirely on furthering what Kara has learned about her parents. Either way, I would jump at the chance to read more from Kate L. Mary.
Additional thoughts:
I find it refreshing that Kara knows she is attractive: “I’m not ashamed to say I think I’m pretty. It’s confidence, not vanity.” For better or for worse, it has become commonplace in new adult reads for female protagonists to be insecure about or oblivious to their own good looks. Frankly, I never quite know how to picture this type of character, because the girl’s perception of her outward appearance is at odds with others’ perceptions of the same thing. In Collision, I appreciate the straightforward manner in which Kara is described.
Another thing I appreciate about the novel is its humor. Despite its more serious subject matter, I liked the flirtation, teasing, and jokes that pass between Kara and Derek. Furthermore, Kara’s ongoing uncertainty when it comes to Dex’s sexual preferences is really funny.
Finally, I have to address this line from Steph: “You can’t seriously tell me you like him. You were a cheerleader in high school.” Really? I understand what she’s going for here, but as an AP student, I’d expect her to move beyond superficial labels and/or stereotypes, and to evaluate someone based on more than a single high-school-based affiliation. (I had really strong feelings when it came to Steph. Can you tell?)
September 27, 2014
I was provided a copy of this book from the Author in exchange for an honest review Thanks So Much :)
Cover: 3 stars
Story line: 4 stars
Characters: 3.5 stars
Personal rating: 4 stars
Did it give me a book hangover:
Yes Yes Yes Yes!!! I wanted more an loads of it lol
Is this a review book or personal read:
I was provided a copy of this book from the Author in exchange for an honest review!!
What I liked about this book.
What I liked was that this book started out with a bang.
We start out with Kara being in a car accident and then finding out some rather earth shattering news.
This book definitely gripped me from the very start and had me hooked and even though it was such a serious kind of book it still had it's funny moments and I liked that a lot because an all too serious book would of just give me a headache so it was a win win....until the middle of the book but we'll get to that in a minute wink wink
This book got to me because I don't know how I would handle being lied to my entire life and at first I kinda felt and understood Kara's pain, I mean if that was me and my mum wouldn't tell me the truth I would go mad and storm out as well.... which leads me to Derek!!
I kinda felt that the author wanted to do something really good with his character but I dunno it just didn't sit right with me because he was so focused on Kara's feelings that in a way he didn't have his chance to shine, I really wanted more for him and the whole Derek and Steph darma didn't seem like it was finished!! I kept thinking that something was gonna happen like maybe Kara walking in and Steph coming onto Derek and that's just because of how things went and how they acted around each other...but nothing!!
I hate to say this but even though Kara went through something really bad an found out this massive secret that she got on my nerves in the middle of the book, and she was acting like she's the only person in the world who is going through something bad and in a way I kinda felt that she was a bit selfish because of it. Maybe I'm just nip picking because I don't know how I would really feel if that was me but look at Derek an what he went through...that's much worse and I dunno it's like she couldn't get pass that to see the bigger picture!!
And what made me stop reading an have a little think was when she met all of his friends and just blurted out this drama, these people are strangers and your telling them your life story!! That just seemed not believable because I have some secrets that I wouldn't blurt out an even if I was drinking...
I felt like I couldn't keep up with remembering everyone's name lol I don't know if I'm slow ;) or was just overwhelmed with everything but all the people who come into was just a bit looonnngggg!!!
I know it seems that I've just moaned about parts of this book but when you read it, you get sucked into this world of betrayal and sorrow and pain and if I didn't have an 8 an 4 year old at my feet 24/7 I would of finished this in a day!!
I gave this 4 stars because it is a really good book and it's one that I would read again and recommend! I liked how she found out the secret and I'm gonna big up my self because I knew who!! I think it was just over half way through and I was like I'm a bad arse!! because I guessed and I was Right lol
The last 10 maybe 15% was a bit thrilling and I kinda guessed that was how it was gonna go down and how it was left.....COME ON!!
You gotta give us more....
I'm expecting a book 2.... maybe with a bit more heat between Derek an Kara because this author likes to tease ^_^
Would I read more from this author?
Hells yes I would read more!!
Would I recommend this book?
Without a doubt, I would definitely recommend this.
Cover: 3 stars
Story line: 4 stars
Characters: 3.5 stars
Personal rating: 4 stars
Did it give me a book hangover:
Yes Yes Yes Yes!!! I wanted more an loads of it lol
Is this a review book or personal read:
I was provided a copy of this book from the Author in exchange for an honest review!!
What I liked about this book.
What I liked was that this book started out with a bang.
We start out with Kara being in a car accident and then finding out some rather earth shattering news.
This book definitely gripped me from the very start and had me hooked and even though it was such a serious kind of book it still had it's funny moments and I liked that a lot because an all too serious book would of just give me a headache so it was a win win....until the middle of the book but we'll get to that in a minute wink wink
This book got to me because I don't know how I would handle being lied to my entire life and at first I kinda felt and understood Kara's pain, I mean if that was me and my mum wouldn't tell me the truth I would go mad and storm out as well.... which leads me to Derek!!
I kinda felt that the author wanted to do something really good with his character but I dunno it just didn't sit right with me because he was so focused on Kara's feelings that in a way he didn't have his chance to shine, I really wanted more for him and the whole Derek and Steph darma didn't seem like it was finished!! I kept thinking that something was gonna happen like maybe Kara walking in and Steph coming onto Derek and that's just because of how things went and how they acted around each other...but nothing!!
I hate to say this but even though Kara went through something really bad an found out this massive secret that she got on my nerves in the middle of the book, and she was acting like she's the only person in the world who is going through something bad and in a way I kinda felt that she was a bit selfish because of it. Maybe I'm just nip picking because I don't know how I would really feel if that was me but look at Derek an what he went through...that's much worse and I dunno it's like she couldn't get pass that to see the bigger picture!!
And what made me stop reading an have a little think was when she met all of his friends and just blurted out this drama, these people are strangers and your telling them your life story!! That just seemed not believable because I have some secrets that I wouldn't blurt out an even if I was drinking...
I felt like I couldn't keep up with remembering everyone's name lol I don't know if I'm slow ;) or was just overwhelmed with everything but all the people who come into was just a bit looonnngggg!!!
I know it seems that I've just moaned about parts of this book but when you read it, you get sucked into this world of betrayal and sorrow and pain and if I didn't have an 8 an 4 year old at my feet 24/7 I would of finished this in a day!!
I gave this 4 stars because it is a really good book and it's one that I would read again and recommend! I liked how she found out the secret and I'm gonna big up my self because I knew who!! I think it was just over half way through and I was like I'm a bad arse!! because I guessed and I was Right lol
The last 10 maybe 15% was a bit thrilling and I kinda guessed that was how it was gonna go down and how it was left.....COME ON!!
You gotta give us more....
I'm expecting a book 2.... maybe with a bit more heat between Derek an Kara because this author likes to tease ^_^
Would I read more from this author?
Hells yes I would read more!!
Would I recommend this book?
Without a doubt, I would definitely recommend this.
August 12, 2014
This is a really hard book for me to review. While I really liked this book. I can honestly see myself sitting on the couch watching this as a Lifetime movie. Yet, there was a lot of stuff that drove me up a wall! This was Kate Mary's debut book and she did a great job.
Kara is on her way home from college in a snowstorm & crashes her car. They need the jaws of life to get her out of the car. Kara honestly didn't think her life could get worse. That was until she was at the hospital. The nurse is filling her & her parents in on what she hurt & how they are treating her. She mentions a blood transfusion. Her parents offer to help. That's when her world is just turned upside down.
After spending a few days in the hospital she goes home to find her dad sitting on the snowy front steps. They get inside & her world just crumbles into a million pieces. Kara is told her dad is not her "dad" & he needs to be away from her mother. Now, Kara wants answers and the one person who can answer them, her mom. Refuses to answer them. I mean she let's Kara know it's better that you know nothing excerpt your dad. The man that's been raising you, he is your father. And, that's that, end of discussion!!
Kara gets pissed & rightfully so. Being that Kara's cellphone got damaged in the accident. She has no one's phone #s written down anywhere. She bundles up and walks out. Kara ended up at the bar not that far away from her house. She's frozen and needs to warm up. Then, shes the bartender and he knows exactly who she is. They went to high school together. Derek Miller. And, man did he look nothing like he did when they were in school together. He lost his whole family in a tragedy when they were still in school.
Kara & Derek get very, very close very fast! Kara & Derek start spending every minute of the day & night together. Kara sets her mind to finding out who her "real daddy" is. Kara realizes it has to be someone her parents went to college with. When she went home one afternoon when her mom wasn't home. Kara went snooping through her mom's stuff. Found some names but not much of anything else. Nothing. She had nothing.
Derek has some friends that go to the college her parents went too. They decide to go on a road trip. After a lot of research on Kara and Derek's part, they have a list of people's names & telephone numbers. Kara begs her mother 1 last time to tell her. She begs Kara to leave it alone. You don't want to know.
Lets just say it was a lot of work. A bunch of dead ends. But, Kara gets what she wanted. And, if I was her I'd be kicking my own ass!!
This was definitely a fast paced book. I read it pretty quick considering how long it was. Now, Derek & Kara got on my nerves so much. Kara literally acted like a spoiled brat the whole book! She's pissed at her mom. I get it 100%. But, she runs into Derek a guy she went to high school with. Yet, she can not remember him at all. Next thing she's practically living with him. Derek loves having her around. He's driving her everywhere, paying for everything, giving her his extra car to drive. What!!!
For 2 people who never spoke a word in high school. Then, running into each other. To all "I love you". Ugh. Made me want to vomit. Both Derek & Kara were running away from their problems. Derek was trying to be someone else. Kara wanted to find out where she really came from. I felt like they were unintentionally using each other.
Granted they were cute together. Kept their minds of what was really going on. I really loved Derek's friends. They were hysterical! The author did leave it open for book 2. Which my fingers are crossed because I really need to know whats going to happen now that the bomb has been set. I need to know what happens after it went off!!
Kara is on her way home from college in a snowstorm & crashes her car. They need the jaws of life to get her out of the car. Kara honestly didn't think her life could get worse. That was until she was at the hospital. The nurse is filling her & her parents in on what she hurt & how they are treating her. She mentions a blood transfusion. Her parents offer to help. That's when her world is just turned upside down.
After spending a few days in the hospital she goes home to find her dad sitting on the snowy front steps. They get inside & her world just crumbles into a million pieces. Kara is told her dad is not her "dad" & he needs to be away from her mother. Now, Kara wants answers and the one person who can answer them, her mom. Refuses to answer them. I mean she let's Kara know it's better that you know nothing excerpt your dad. The man that's been raising you, he is your father. And, that's that, end of discussion!!
Kara gets pissed & rightfully so. Being that Kara's cellphone got damaged in the accident. She has no one's phone #s written down anywhere. She bundles up and walks out. Kara ended up at the bar not that far away from her house. She's frozen and needs to warm up. Then, shes the bartender and he knows exactly who she is. They went to high school together. Derek Miller. And, man did he look nothing like he did when they were in school together. He lost his whole family in a tragedy when they were still in school.
Kara & Derek get very, very close very fast! Kara & Derek start spending every minute of the day & night together. Kara sets her mind to finding out who her "real daddy" is. Kara realizes it has to be someone her parents went to college with. When she went home one afternoon when her mom wasn't home. Kara went snooping through her mom's stuff. Found some names but not much of anything else. Nothing. She had nothing.
Derek has some friends that go to the college her parents went too. They decide to go on a road trip. After a lot of research on Kara and Derek's part, they have a list of people's names & telephone numbers. Kara begs her mother 1 last time to tell her. She begs Kara to leave it alone. You don't want to know.
Lets just say it was a lot of work. A bunch of dead ends. But, Kara gets what she wanted. And, if I was her I'd be kicking my own ass!!
This was definitely a fast paced book. I read it pretty quick considering how long it was. Now, Derek & Kara got on my nerves so much. Kara literally acted like a spoiled brat the whole book! She's pissed at her mom. I get it 100%. But, she runs into Derek a guy she went to high school with. Yet, she can not remember him at all. Next thing she's practically living with him. Derek loves having her around. He's driving her everywhere, paying for everything, giving her his extra car to drive. What!!!
For 2 people who never spoke a word in high school. Then, running into each other. To all "I love you". Ugh. Made me want to vomit. Both Derek & Kara were running away from their problems. Derek was trying to be someone else. Kara wanted to find out where she really came from. I felt like they were unintentionally using each other.
Granted they were cute together. Kept their minds of what was really going on. I really loved Derek's friends. They were hysterical! The author did leave it open for book 2. Which my fingers are crossed because I really need to know whats going to happen now that the bomb has been set. I need to know what happens after it went off!!
September 24, 2014
You know the saying, "Some things are just better left unsaid..." Well in Kara Jones case, she probably wishes she would have taken that saying to heart and left the truth alone. Or just let those dogs that are sleeping in the corner, just lie. Sometimes mystery and wanting to know the truth trumpets all that knows best.
"Collision" by Kate L. Mary starts off with a punch. Our female lead is in a pretty nasty car accident. On her way home from school her Christmas break, her car skids and collides head on into a tree. She is banged up, but okay. During the time in the emergency room secrets are brought to life. Nothing she would have expected in her wildest dream. Kara's dad that she known her whole life is not her dad. Bad Part? You think there isn't something worse than this?? Well there is! Kara's mom has known this little fact for her whole life and chose not to let either him or her into this little secret. Kara's mom, Charlotte has her reasons. Some truths should never be told. Well little Miss Kara refuses to think so and goes on a journey of some unfortunate discovery. Which has her wishing she never made this faithful journey in the first place.
I gotta say, when I read the synopsis it intrigued me and what made me want to sign up for the blog tour. I have always been a mystery girl. It was my first love before the "Fifty Shades of Greys" of the book world. When that came out and others like it, my love of mystery faded like fashion statements. But when I realized that I got two of the same type of genres that I loved, I dived right in. I wasn't disappointment with this book entirely, but I was disappointed with how the female character was portrayed in the book. I completely understand she found a devastating secret about her family and I would be hurt to if that was me. But my God. She put a whole new meaning into the word, "Brat". Drammmmmmma was Kara's middle name and that annoyed me. She kept playing the "woe is me" card just a tad bit too much. If your mother tells you there is a reason for her not sharing who your dad really is then believe her!! Don't make her out to be Satan or the plague. She's your mom, moms have their reason that just the nature of the beast. Now on the other side of the token I would want to know who my father was too, but I would of been upfront with her and told her this was just something I needed and wanted to do. *sigh* Kara was infuriating and almost the reason I couldn't finish this novel, but lets enter the knight in shining armor shall we. Derek was the savior of this story for me! He was funny, smart, geeky and downright sexy. Aww loved him. Derek was admiring Kara since High School. So for their paths to run again after this development was good for Kara. Since she didn't want her mom around and her dad that she thought all along was her dad, abandons her, Derek was a good addition in her life to keep her in check. I liked him alot! I truly think he was the best part of this book.
Once the secret is found out, who her dad really is you are basically telling yourself, "Holy Shit..this can't end well". In some ways it really doesn't. The way the ending is setup it sounds like there could be a part 2, but looking at the author's Goodreads page it doesn't mention it. Time can only tell. This was a good story with a good pace. I just couldn't wrap my head around Kara. And sometimes you just can't with some characters. Don't pass this book up though because it is still good and entertaining read.
Out of a 5. I'm giving this a 3.5. Good debut!
**The Nerdy Dirty Girlies Book Blog received a gifted copy of Collision by the author in exchanged for a honest review**
"Collision" by Kate L. Mary starts off with a punch. Our female lead is in a pretty nasty car accident. On her way home from school her Christmas break, her car skids and collides head on into a tree. She is banged up, but okay. During the time in the emergency room secrets are brought to life. Nothing she would have expected in her wildest dream. Kara's dad that she known her whole life is not her dad. Bad Part? You think there isn't something worse than this?? Well there is! Kara's mom has known this little fact for her whole life and chose not to let either him or her into this little secret. Kara's mom, Charlotte has her reasons. Some truths should never be told. Well little Miss Kara refuses to think so and goes on a journey of some unfortunate discovery. Which has her wishing she never made this faithful journey in the first place.
I gotta say, when I read the synopsis it intrigued me and what made me want to sign up for the blog tour. I have always been a mystery girl. It was my first love before the "Fifty Shades of Greys" of the book world. When that came out and others like it, my love of mystery faded like fashion statements. But when I realized that I got two of the same type of genres that I loved, I dived right in. I wasn't disappointment with this book entirely, but I was disappointed with how the female character was portrayed in the book. I completely understand she found a devastating secret about her family and I would be hurt to if that was me. But my God. She put a whole new meaning into the word, "Brat". Drammmmmmma was Kara's middle name and that annoyed me. She kept playing the "woe is me" card just a tad bit too much. If your mother tells you there is a reason for her not sharing who your dad really is then believe her!! Don't make her out to be Satan or the plague. She's your mom, moms have their reason that just the nature of the beast. Now on the other side of the token I would want to know who my father was too, but I would of been upfront with her and told her this was just something I needed and wanted to do. *sigh* Kara was infuriating and almost the reason I couldn't finish this novel, but lets enter the knight in shining armor shall we. Derek was the savior of this story for me! He was funny, smart, geeky and downright sexy. Aww loved him. Derek was admiring Kara since High School. So for their paths to run again after this development was good for Kara. Since she didn't want her mom around and her dad that she thought all along was her dad, abandons her, Derek was a good addition in her life to keep her in check. I liked him alot! I truly think he was the best part of this book.
Once the secret is found out, who her dad really is you are basically telling yourself, "Holy Shit..this can't end well". In some ways it really doesn't. The way the ending is setup it sounds like there could be a part 2, but looking at the author's Goodreads page it doesn't mention it. Time can only tell. This was a good story with a good pace. I just couldn't wrap my head around Kara. And sometimes you just can't with some characters. Don't pass this book up though because it is still good and entertaining read.
Out of a 5. I'm giving this a 3.5. Good debut!
**The Nerdy Dirty Girlies Book Blog received a gifted copy of Collision by the author in exchanged for a honest review**
October 5, 2014
This was one of those books which you end reading and then you just sit there and realize that was damn good!
Because the situations were real. The problems were real. The characters were real.
We've got eighteen-year-old Kara Jones who in a few seconds has her entire life shattered till the bottom. Turns out that nothing she lived up with, is real.
The man who she knew as her father all her life, leaves and she is practically left alone to face the news.
I really admire Kara. I understood so well her frustations when she was caught up in her house with the reason of her pain. Her own mother. Trying to escape and not being able to.
She is such a brave girl and set up to find the truth about her life and she doesn't stop for anything.
Then, we've got Derek Miller.
Huh, i don't even know where to start when it comes to Derek..
Left alone in the world, nobody but himself. He seems to be getting along with his situation. Until.
Until his high-school crush storms into his life. This time, to stay in it.
Planning on helping Kara to discover the truth, he gets to discover that he wasn't doing as well as he thought. He was just passing trough.
Changed from the boy who was in high-school Kara barely remembers him, but this is just her chance to discover him. How noble he is, how brave and smart he is, how much he's gone through, how much he can hold her when her world comes crushing down.
The story kept my eyes glued to my e-reader. It got me so curios and i loved that has a slowly built-up and things happen when they're supposed to. It was like everytime you got to relax a bit something would happen and you were caugh up again in the intensity!
Again, i loved so much that Kate L. Mary presented us a real problem. Something that could happen anytime to anyone. It got me thinking about life and about the things that we could not know. Things that you grow up with and they're taken from you in seconds.
Kara and Derek.
I just loved their story. It was so easily to fall for Derek. I did. From his first word. So did Kara.
Thank you so much for this book.
I loved it.
I recommend 'Collision' with all my heart.
It goes fantastic with tea and some cookies! :)
I received a copy of Collision from the author in exchange of an honest review.
Thank you from my heart!
You made my day by giving me this!
Can't wait to read 'Broken World'!!
Because the situations were real. The problems were real. The characters were real.
We've got eighteen-year-old Kara Jones who in a few seconds has her entire life shattered till the bottom. Turns out that nothing she lived up with, is real.
The man who she knew as her father all her life, leaves and she is practically left alone to face the news.
I really admire Kara. I understood so well her frustations when she was caught up in her house with the reason of her pain. Her own mother. Trying to escape and not being able to.
She is such a brave girl and set up to find the truth about her life and she doesn't stop for anything.
Then, we've got Derek Miller.
Huh, i don't even know where to start when it comes to Derek..
Left alone in the world, nobody but himself. He seems to be getting along with his situation. Until.
Until his high-school crush storms into his life. This time, to stay in it.
Planning on helping Kara to discover the truth, he gets to discover that he wasn't doing as well as he thought. He was just passing trough.
Changed from the boy who was in high-school Kara barely remembers him, but this is just her chance to discover him. How noble he is, how brave and smart he is, how much he's gone through, how much he can hold her when her world comes crushing down.
The story kept my eyes glued to my e-reader. It got me so curios and i loved that has a slowly built-up and things happen when they're supposed to. It was like everytime you got to relax a bit something would happen and you were caugh up again in the intensity!
Again, i loved so much that Kate L. Mary presented us a real problem. Something that could happen anytime to anyone. It got me thinking about life and about the things that we could not know. Things that you grow up with and they're taken from you in seconds.
Kara and Derek.
I just loved their story. It was so easily to fall for Derek. I did. From his first word. So did Kara.
Thank you so much for this book.
I loved it.
I recommend 'Collision' with all my heart.
It goes fantastic with tea and some cookies! :)
I received a copy of Collision from the author in exchange of an honest review.
Thank you from my heart!
You made my day by giving me this!
Can't wait to read 'Broken World'!!
July 25, 2014
Kara has finished her first semester of college and is returning home to Dayton, Ohio for winter break. When her car careens off the side of the road, and she is brought to the hospital for some bruised ribs, she never would have guessed her family would be changed forever. At the hospital, Kara learns nothing is what it seems, and her family is not the idyllic family she grew up believing it to be. Both Kara and her father are shocked to learn he is not her biological father.
Crushed by the lie she believes her life to be, and stranded with no phone or car because of the car wreck, she takes off down the street to escape her mother. Her mother is suffocating her with her hovering. Her mom is frightened that she will lose her daughter like she has probably lost her husband of 18 years. Kara just needs to get away. She ducks into the first business she comes to, a pool hall and is thankful it is warm and relatively deserted. Kara encounters a young and handsome guy behind the bar and she is shocked to learn she went to high school with this young hottie. How could she have overlooked him?
Derek Miller can’t believe Kara Jones is in his pool hall. He watched her from afar in high school, not traveling in the same social circles as the popular cheerleader. He pours her a drink as they chat at the bar, getting reacquainted after half a year out of high school. Kara soon remembers this easy going guy, and how his life was completely destroyed right before graduation when his whole family was killed in a car accident. He understands when she says her whole life changed in an instant.
When Kara’s mom won’t tell her about her biological father, Kara is determined to find out the truth and who he really is. Derek agrees to help her, becoming her closest ally and soon more than a friend. He has such a calming effect on her, and is the only one there to help her through the emotional rollercoaster of finding her father. But sometimes, the truth is not a positive, and once you learn something, that knowledge can tear you apart. Is knowing the truth worth the risk?
I loved this book! Great writing, the storyline has the reader engaged from the start and that little cutie Derek, he is the perfect boyfriend. I highly recommend this book. To the young single ladies; don’t overlook the smart, nerdy guys in school. Think about what you may be missing.
Crushed by the lie she believes her life to be, and stranded with no phone or car because of the car wreck, she takes off down the street to escape her mother. Her mother is suffocating her with her hovering. Her mom is frightened that she will lose her daughter like she has probably lost her husband of 18 years. Kara just needs to get away. She ducks into the first business she comes to, a pool hall and is thankful it is warm and relatively deserted. Kara encounters a young and handsome guy behind the bar and she is shocked to learn she went to high school with this young hottie. How could she have overlooked him?
Derek Miller can’t believe Kara Jones is in his pool hall. He watched her from afar in high school, not traveling in the same social circles as the popular cheerleader. He pours her a drink as they chat at the bar, getting reacquainted after half a year out of high school. Kara soon remembers this easy going guy, and how his life was completely destroyed right before graduation when his whole family was killed in a car accident. He understands when she says her whole life changed in an instant.
When Kara’s mom won’t tell her about her biological father, Kara is determined to find out the truth and who he really is. Derek agrees to help her, becoming her closest ally and soon more than a friend. He has such a calming effect on her, and is the only one there to help her through the emotional rollercoaster of finding her father. But sometimes, the truth is not a positive, and once you learn something, that knowledge can tear you apart. Is knowing the truth worth the risk?
I loved this book! Great writing, the storyline has the reader engaged from the start and that little cutie Derek, he is the perfect boyfriend. I highly recommend this book. To the young single ladies; don’t overlook the smart, nerdy guys in school. Think about what you may be missing.
July 10, 2014
** TARA'S 4.5 STAR REVEIW **
On the way home from college for Christmas break, Kara Jones is involved in a serious car wreck. During her hospital stay a family secret is revealed that threatens to tear her family apart, and send her life on a path she was never expecting. Trying to escape her mother, Kara runs out of the house and into the arms of Derek Miller. Kara and Derek went to the same high school, but Kara can’t remember him. Derek on the other hand has always had a crush on Kara.
Derek is no stranger to the loss of family, during their senior year of high school, Derek’s family was tragically killed in a car accident.
When Kara walks into the pool hall he works at, everything for these two is about to change. Derek is there to support Kara and try and help her through this extremely difficult time in her life, all while she steals his heart again, and brings him back to life.
“You’re the only reason I haven’t gone insane yet.”
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
“Derek is gentle and loving, and our bodies fit so perfectly together that at this moment I’m positive he was made for me.”
If you love suspense/mystery/romance all rolled into one, then this book is for you. The who done it, or in this case who is it, aspect of this book is very intriguing, and will keep you wondering and guessing.
I absolutely adored this book. The storyline was well written and I instantly fell in love with Derek. Kate did a great job pulling in and intertwining the lives of Kara and Derek. Once the plot line started playing out, I had a really hard time putting this book down. It is one of those stories where you just need to keep going to find out how it all turns out. On more then a few occasions the angst left me breathless.
There is no cliffhanger, but in the end I was looking for more, I was left wanting to know where things ended up going for Kara and Derek and how their relationship ended up playing out. I can only hope there is a follow up book or novella in the works that takes these characters to the next chapter of their lives.
**A copy was received by the author/publisher in exchange for an honest review**
On the way home from college for Christmas break, Kara Jones is involved in a serious car wreck. During her hospital stay a family secret is revealed that threatens to tear her family apart, and send her life on a path she was never expecting. Trying to escape her mother, Kara runs out of the house and into the arms of Derek Miller. Kara and Derek went to the same high school, but Kara can’t remember him. Derek on the other hand has always had a crush on Kara.
Derek is no stranger to the loss of family, during their senior year of high school, Derek’s family was tragically killed in a car accident.
When Kara walks into the pool hall he works at, everything for these two is about to change. Derek is there to support Kara and try and help her through this extremely difficult time in her life, all while she steals his heart again, and brings him back to life.
“You’re the only reason I haven’t gone insane yet.”
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
“Derek is gentle and loving, and our bodies fit so perfectly together that at this moment I’m positive he was made for me.”
If you love suspense/mystery/romance all rolled into one, then this book is for you. The who done it, or in this case who is it, aspect of this book is very intriguing, and will keep you wondering and guessing.
I absolutely adored this book. The storyline was well written and I instantly fell in love with Derek. Kate did a great job pulling in and intertwining the lives of Kara and Derek. Once the plot line started playing out, I had a really hard time putting this book down. It is one of those stories where you just need to keep going to find out how it all turns out. On more then a few occasions the angst left me breathless.
There is no cliffhanger, but in the end I was looking for more, I was left wanting to know where things ended up going for Kara and Derek and how their relationship ended up playing out. I can only hope there is a follow up book or novella in the works that takes these characters to the next chapter of their lives.
**A copy was received by the author/publisher in exchange for an honest review**
July 5, 2014
Well, this book certainly brings new meaning to the old phrase "don't ask questions unless you are sure you can handle the answers."
When Kara Jones gets into a car accident on the way home from school, the pain she experiences physically is nothing compared to the emotional heartache that she will have to endure. A slip up by the nurse at the hospital causes her to discover that her family isn't what it seems and no one will give her the answers she needs.
Looking to escape for a little while, Kara finds herself at a bar where she meets the swoon worthy Derek Miller. He's a former classmate who lost his entire family in a car accident just before graduation. Gone is the geeky persona and in it's place is a sexy, caring guy that wants Kara. The two hit it off immediately and Kara quickly realizes that Derek is the only one she can trust.
The two set out on a mission to Kent University, her parents alma matter, in search of friends and ex boyfriends of Kara's mother. After several dead ends, Kara finally finds the answer she's been looking for. But can she handle what the truth has revealed? Are somethings in life just better off being left alone?
I devoured this book in one sitting. The story was compelling and suspenseful and i was hooked at the first chapter. Collision is unique story with a well developed plot that will leave you turning the pages at lightening speed. I adored the characters. Kara was so strong and determined to get the truth and Derek was so supportive of her decisions even when he didn't agree with them.
This was a quick, addictive read that is sure to suck you in. Impressive for a debut novel. I wish there was a little more of a conclusion but I'm hoping that the open ending means that there is more to come for Kara and Derek!
When Kara Jones gets into a car accident on the way home from school, the pain she experiences physically is nothing compared to the emotional heartache that she will have to endure. A slip up by the nurse at the hospital causes her to discover that her family isn't what it seems and no one will give her the answers she needs.
Looking to escape for a little while, Kara finds herself at a bar where she meets the swoon worthy Derek Miller. He's a former classmate who lost his entire family in a car accident just before graduation. Gone is the geeky persona and in it's place is a sexy, caring guy that wants Kara. The two hit it off immediately and Kara quickly realizes that Derek is the only one she can trust.
The two set out on a mission to Kent University, her parents alma matter, in search of friends and ex boyfriends of Kara's mother. After several dead ends, Kara finally finds the answer she's been looking for. But can she handle what the truth has revealed? Are somethings in life just better off being left alone?
I devoured this book in one sitting. The story was compelling and suspenseful and i was hooked at the first chapter. Collision is unique story with a well developed plot that will leave you turning the pages at lightening speed. I adored the characters. Kara was so strong and determined to get the truth and Derek was so supportive of her decisions even when he didn't agree with them.
This was a quick, addictive read that is sure to suck you in. Impressive for a debut novel. I wish there was a little more of a conclusion but I'm hoping that the open ending means that there is more to come for Kara and Derek!
June 29, 2014
Kate L. Mary's Collision is an intense mystery about a girl who finds out her dad is not her real dad. When Kara was in a horrible accident on her way home from college her whole world changed. While in the hospital the nurse let it slip she may have been adopted. Kara and her dad, Greg had been lied to for the past eighteen years from her mom. Greg took off to deal with everything on his own, while Kara was forced to be with her mom since she was healing, no car, and no phone. After fighting with her mom about the truth of her real father Kara left and ended up in a bar in town. Derek was the last person Kara expected to help her through this difficult time. He remembered Kara from high school and always had a crush on her. Kara felt like everything was going to be okay when she looked into Derek's eyes. Kara and Derek started getting close very fast, they both were going through a hard time and really helped each other through. Kara decided to try to find out who her biological father is since her mom refused to tell her the truth. Derek was there for Kara every step of the way, and Kara realized she loved this amazing man. He helped her when she found out that the man who gave her life and supported her when the hard truth hit her in the face. Being faced with all these lies and emotions Kara decided the only thing she could do to help herself was to find out about her father and see why her mom had fallen for him. What made him the monster he turned out to be, and to find out before it was too late to do so. Only will she get the answers she's looking for or worse.
October 18, 2016
his is one of those books that isn't great but is great but isn't great. I can't seem to make my mind up on how great or good it actually is! If you follow my reviews, you should know that I like books that have originality. While, there are books that have the premise of a car accident and coming home to pick up the pieces... yada yada yada. This isn't really that book. It seems like it, at first. This book is so different from that type of book.
Now that Kara is stuck at home. Pissed at her mother. Bruised. Bored. Without connection to anyone. She has vowed to uncover the secrets her mother has buried.
Derek is just living his life. It may be a lonely life. His family gone. No one around him to really call his own. Then one day, she walks into the bar he works...
Kara and Derek went to high school together. While Kara barely remembers him and he remembers everything about her, they start to build a friendship that will eventually turn into more.
As Derek helps her uncover who she really is, both biologically and physiologically, they form a bond, an attraction that may or may not be good for them.
Once the truth has come out and their relationship is solidified, the true test in their relationship comes. Can they handle the tough decisions whether they see eye to eye? Can the truth rip them apart?
Now that Kara is stuck at home. Pissed at her mother. Bruised. Bored. Without connection to anyone. She has vowed to uncover the secrets her mother has buried.
Derek is just living his life. It may be a lonely life. His family gone. No one around him to really call his own. Then one day, she walks into the bar he works...
Kara and Derek went to high school together. While Kara barely remembers him and he remembers everything about her, they start to build a friendship that will eventually turn into more.
As Derek helps her uncover who she really is, both biologically and physiologically, they form a bond, an attraction that may or may not be good for them.
Once the truth has come out and their relationship is solidified, the true test in their relationship comes. Can they handle the tough decisions whether they see eye to eye? Can the truth rip them apart?
July 3, 2014
I was provided a copy of the book by the Author for an honest review.
I just finish reading this book and I love it, love the characters, I love the twist and turn, and love how the book turn out to be, I have to say that this book sometime made me mad, but I love every single minute of it, I am gone keep this short since I don't want to give anything away.
The story begging with Kara, waking up to the sirens and the red, blue, white lights, she just start to notice that she's being in an accident, she was driving back home after getting out of school, once she was in the hospital and her parents show up, that's when her life started to change, by one comment that the nursed made, asking if she was adopted, Kara couldn't believe what was going, now two weeks later and she is determinate to find out the truth about her mother, and that's when Derek show in the picture, now Derek is a former classmate, and when Kara ask him for his help to find out about her mother he agree to do it, but what they did not expected was for everything that started to happened, will Kara find out the truth.
I really love and enjoy reading this book, I love Kara attitude, and love the way how Derek is with her, I did not want this book to finish I wanted more. Author Kate L. Mary THANK YOU for introducing me to this awesome characters and this amazing book love it.
I just finish reading this book and I love it, love the characters, I love the twist and turn, and love how the book turn out to be, I have to say that this book sometime made me mad, but I love every single minute of it, I am gone keep this short since I don't want to give anything away.
The story begging with Kara, waking up to the sirens and the red, blue, white lights, she just start to notice that she's being in an accident, she was driving back home after getting out of school, once she was in the hospital and her parents show up, that's when her life started to change, by one comment that the nursed made, asking if she was adopted, Kara couldn't believe what was going, now two weeks later and she is determinate to find out the truth about her mother, and that's when Derek show in the picture, now Derek is a former classmate, and when Kara ask him for his help to find out about her mother he agree to do it, but what they did not expected was for everything that started to happened, will Kara find out the truth.
I really love and enjoy reading this book, I love Kara attitude, and love the way how Derek is with her, I did not want this book to finish I wanted more. Author Kate L. Mary THANK YOU for introducing me to this awesome characters and this amazing book love it.
September 6, 2014
I won this book in a Goodreads.com first reads giveaway. Thank you to Kate L. Mary for this opportunity.
3.5 Stars
Kara is involved in a car accident and, after a slip from a nurse at the hospital, she finds out that things aren't as she always thought they were. She decides to find out the truth about her birth on her own because her family is unwilling to provide answers. Kara meets Derek, who is dealing with problems of his own. Together they slowly unravel the truth while romance builds between them. As the truth is revealed, Kara starts to wonder if she'd have been better off not knowing the answers she so desperately seeks.
I enjoyed this book but there are a few things keeping me from rating it higher. There was a point in the book where I just couldn't put it down. So, in my opinion, the suspense was built up perfectly in the last half of the book. However, I think that the unveiling of her father's identity was a little too predictable because of the obvious clues given by the author - clues that Kara should have picked up on much faster than she did. I loved the relationship between Kara and Derek, but I feel like it is destined for disaster because Derek is still running from the past. Lastly, I felt no closure with this ending. The story just kind of stopped. I surely hope there is a sequel planned for the future.
3.5 Stars
Kara is involved in a car accident and, after a slip from a nurse at the hospital, she finds out that things aren't as she always thought they were. She decides to find out the truth about her birth on her own because her family is unwilling to provide answers. Kara meets Derek, who is dealing with problems of his own. Together they slowly unravel the truth while romance builds between them. As the truth is revealed, Kara starts to wonder if she'd have been better off not knowing the answers she so desperately seeks.
I enjoyed this book but there are a few things keeping me from rating it higher. There was a point in the book where I just couldn't put it down. So, in my opinion, the suspense was built up perfectly in the last half of the book. However, I think that the unveiling of her father's identity was a little too predictable because of the obvious clues given by the author - clues that Kara should have picked up on much faster than she did. I loved the relationship between Kara and Derek, but I feel like it is destined for disaster because Derek is still running from the past. Lastly, I felt no closure with this ending. The story just kind of stopped. I surely hope there is a sequel planned for the future.
September 30, 2014
I wish these sites allowed for true half star ratings - this book was a 4-1/2 stars book for me (yes, that half star makes a difference! ;)).
I really did enjoy this book. It was a unique story with an interesting plot that's actually left me with a book hangover that I just can't seem to shake.
The characters were well-written - while Kara came off as slightly annoying at times (which was, you know, completely understandable), Derek was ... Amazing. Seriously, a very lovable character.
(Some spoilers here, I guess?)
The main conflict in the story was surprising. I guess I've read too many cheesy romance stories, but when I read that "things weren't as they seemed" I thought that someone was involved in the mafia.
Yeah. So glad it wasn't that. I'm also glad that Derek didn't turn out to be Kara's brother or anything (another of my "wtf, how did I even have that thought" moments that I'm not proud of).
Overall, I'd definitely recommend this book. Am I hoping for a sequel? Heck yes! The book was perfectly set-up for one, so if this is a finished, non-series book, I think I'd be disappointed.
(A copy of this book was provided for an honest review - thank you SO MUCH for the opportunity.)
I really did enjoy this book. It was a unique story with an interesting plot that's actually left me with a book hangover that I just can't seem to shake.
The characters were well-written - while Kara came off as slightly annoying at times (which was, you know, completely understandable), Derek was ... Amazing. Seriously, a very lovable character.
(Some spoilers here, I guess?)
The main conflict in the story was surprising. I guess I've read too many cheesy romance stories, but when I read that "things weren't as they seemed" I thought that someone was involved in the mafia.
Yeah. So glad it wasn't that. I'm also glad that Derek didn't turn out to be Kara's brother or anything (another of my "wtf, how did I even have that thought" moments that I'm not proud of).
Overall, I'd definitely recommend this book. Am I hoping for a sequel? Heck yes! The book was perfectly set-up for one, so if this is a finished, non-series book, I think I'd be disappointed.
(A copy of this book was provided for an honest review - thank you SO MUCH for the opportunity.)
October 18, 2017
Okay, I love Kara and Derek together, Kara alone not so much. Yes her world gets turned upside down and it's traumatic and all but she's kind of a spoiled brat and I didn't like her drama queen act. BUT, Kate L. Mary did a wonderful job with this novel, Mary is a wonderful writer, and her story line is new, fresh and completely original. As I said before the characters were okay on their own but together they were perfect.
The surprises and twists in this novel are AWESOME and totally not what I expected. I really really LOVED this book and the biological father...HELL YES! So exciting and unexpected, I am SO looking forward to reading the follow up to this book. I'm not going to give anything away and I'm not writing this to outline the whole book for you. What I am doing here is telling all of you that this is one kick ass novel, that it is engaging and has a constant air of mystery and is worth taking a chance on.
My thoughts to your eyes, and yes I am writing this from my comfy king size bed. Please get a copy and read it cause it's worth it and oh so amazing, you will NOT regret it!
The surprises and twists in this novel are AWESOME and totally not what I expected. I really really LOVED this book and the biological father...HELL YES! So exciting and unexpected, I am SO looking forward to reading the follow up to this book. I'm not going to give anything away and I'm not writing this to outline the whole book for you. What I am doing here is telling all of you that this is one kick ass novel, that it is engaging and has a constant air of mystery and is worth taking a chance on.
My thoughts to your eyes, and yes I am writing this from my comfy king size bed. Please get a copy and read it cause it's worth it and oh so amazing, you will NOT regret it!
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