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Kaj bi naredili, če bi izgubili edino osebo, na katero ste se lahko zanesli v svojem življenju?
Zloraba
Bolečina
Žalost
Strah
To so stvari, s katerimi se je devetnajstletna Aaliyah Thomas soočala celo svoje življenje. Po umoru osebe, ki ji je največ pomenila in zaradi katere je bilo vredno živeti, ubeži morilcu ter pobegne na drugi konec države. Vpiše se na fakulteto, odločena, da nadaljuje s svojim življenjem, a se raje drži zase. Ne ve pa, da jo morilec išče in bo naredil vse, da jo najde.
Dvaindvajsetletniletni Ryder Knight živi za košarko. Je eden najbolj priljubljenih fantov, z veliko prijatelji in dobrim srcem. Edina stvar, ki jo pogreša, je iskrenost. Večina se druži z njim zaradi denarja, zato ni prepričan, kdo je do njega iskren ter kdo ima skrite motive.
Privlačnost med Ryderjem in Aaliyah je takojšnja, vendar Ryderjevo nezaupanje hitro uniči kakršnekoli možnosti, da bi postala prijatelja.
Je pripravljen odpreti srce in ponovno spustiti ljubezen v svoje življenje? Bo Aaliyah podrla zidove, ki jih je postavila okoli svojega srca in končno spet našla zaupanje v ljudi?
Bosta doživela svoj srečen konec ali sta njuni srci preveč zlomljeni?
Zloraba
Bolečina
Žalost
Strah
To so stvari, s katerimi se je devetnajstletna Aaliyah Thomas soočala celo svoje življenje. Po umoru osebe, ki ji je največ pomenila in zaradi katere je bilo vredno živeti, ubeži morilcu ter pobegne na drugi konec države. Vpiše se na fakulteto, odločena, da nadaljuje s svojim življenjem, a se raje drži zase. Ne ve pa, da jo morilec išče in bo naredil vse, da jo najde.
Dvaindvajsetletniletni Ryder Knight živi za košarko. Je eden najbolj priljubljenih fantov, z veliko prijatelji in dobrim srcem. Edina stvar, ki jo pogreša, je iskrenost. Večina se druži z njim zaradi denarja, zato ni prepričan, kdo je do njega iskren ter kdo ima skrite motive.
Privlačnost med Ryderjem in Aaliyah je takojšnja, vendar Ryderjevo nezaupanje hitro uniči kakršnekoli možnosti, da bi postala prijatelja.
Je pripravljen odpreti srce in ponovno spustiti ljubezen v svoje življenje? Bo Aaliyah podrla zidove, ki jih je postavila okoli svojega srca in končno spet našla zaupanje v ljudi?
Bosta doživela svoj srečen konec ali sta njuni srci preveč zlomljeni?
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First published July 1, 2014
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews
September 14, 2014
The first thing you see when you check out Because of you, is this GORGEOUS cover. I hate covers where characters' faces are fully visible - that ruins everything as I am not allowed to create an image of them in my head myself, so the cover photo is awesome. And a little creepy. Goes great with the theme of the book. :)
I really liked the first book by Lea J (which I read in Slovene) but Because of You was even better. There were more characters, depth, romance, action, sparks, twists, fire and soul. I couldn't put the book down until I read the last word. The main character, Aaliyah, has spunk and she is strong, which is what I like in a heroine. She went through a lot, and she didn't just lose the person that was the most precious to her, she is also hiding from an awful person who wants to harm her because she was in the wrong place at the wrong time. Thankfully, in a new place, she finds friends, a job, some peace, and of course - love. That is, until the bad person tracks her down. At that point everything in Aaliyah's life spirals out of control.
The relationship with Ryder was intense, to say the least. In the beginning, I disliked him with all my heart - he was a jerk, and not "the good kind". He acted like a total ass toward Aaliyah, completely without reason. I warmed up to him when he realized the error of his ways (that's a nice way to say he pulled his head out of his ass) and from then on, we get a lot of steamy scenes that required a cold glass of water and a fan near-by. They were so sweet together.
The secondary characters were nicely written, and I liked that there were many layers to the plot. As I said before, you never know what is going to happen, so you sit on the edge of your seat, biting your nails and bracing yourself for what will come next. This was a very sweet and also suspenseful story about a girl who has gone through a lot and cannot seem to find peace and happiness in her life. I really enjoyed reading about her journey, I laughed with her, felt her grief and cheered for her. And the happy ending she got was exactly what she deserved.
I recommend this book to anyone who wants to read something sexy, mysterious, suspenseful and thrilling. Watch out for this author, you will never get bored with one of her books in your lap!
Also, she's Slovenian, and there aren't many writers in Slovenia in this genre who are so well-known internationally as she is and will be. I wish her all the best and I can't wait to read more from this new, fresh, promising author.
I really liked the first book by Lea J (which I read in Slovene) but Because of You was even better. There were more characters, depth, romance, action, sparks, twists, fire and soul. I couldn't put the book down until I read the last word. The main character, Aaliyah, has spunk and she is strong, which is what I like in a heroine. She went through a lot, and she didn't just lose the person that was the most precious to her, she is also hiding from an awful person who wants to harm her because she was in the wrong place at the wrong time. Thankfully, in a new place, she finds friends, a job, some peace, and of course - love. That is, until the bad person tracks her down. At that point everything in Aaliyah's life spirals out of control.
The relationship with Ryder was intense, to say the least. In the beginning, I disliked him with all my heart - he was a jerk, and not "the good kind". He acted like a total ass toward Aaliyah, completely without reason. I warmed up to him when he realized the error of his ways (that's a nice way to say he pulled his head out of his ass) and from then on, we get a lot of steamy scenes that required a cold glass of water and a fan near-by. They were so sweet together.
The secondary characters were nicely written, and I liked that there were many layers to the plot. As I said before, you never know what is going to happen, so you sit on the edge of your seat, biting your nails and bracing yourself for what will come next. This was a very sweet and also suspenseful story about a girl who has gone through a lot and cannot seem to find peace and happiness in her life. I really enjoyed reading about her journey, I laughed with her, felt her grief and cheered for her. And the happy ending she got was exactly what she deserved.
I recommend this book to anyone who wants to read something sexy, mysterious, suspenseful and thrilling. Watch out for this author, you will never get bored with one of her books in your lap!
Also, she's Slovenian, and there aren't many writers in Slovenia in this genre who are so well-known internationally as she is and will be. I wish her all the best and I can't wait to read more from this new, fresh, promising author.
May 18, 2015
Did I read the same book as all the other reviews??...seriously!
There were sooo many things wrong with this book I don't know wot 2 start with..! I'm actually having 2 sit and organise my dislike into categories. So okay..
1. The writing was bad, it was just bad! For example lines like the following came up constantly "what is wrong?" "what is happening?" and "what is the matter". Nobody talks like that! It's robotic, overly formal and makes the writing seem almost adolescent is quality.
2. The hero is supposed to be a young, cool playboy 2 start with but his thinking and speaking comes across old fashioned and gentlemanly at times so it didn't quite fit with the image it was like switching between fifty shades and pride and prejudice.
3. The discriptives!. For example every1 did EVERYTHING passionately at all times. They kissed passionately, made love passionately (then rolled over and passionately repeated it) his sister passionately hugged, kissed and humped every1s leg) it got boring. Also at 1 point H described "slapping teammates butt enthusiastically" wtf!? I think maybe it was just wrongly worded (maybe it shud have said supportively, altho it's still a bit strange) but enthusiastically just sounds like he cudnt get enuf of his mates ass!
3. The cheese factor. Now don't get me wrong I love a bit of cheesy clichés as much as the next person. I love some insta-love after knowing each other 3 seconds, I don't mind when the heroine gets sprogged up the first time a penis twitches in her direction, I can even tolerate that all heroine suffer from a strange kind of blindness where they walk around looking like selma hyack (without any effort on their part) yet seem 2 think they resemble the trunchball's dowdy sister but this book got so cheesy cheesy cliché mad that is stank like an old bree!
4. Worst villain ever!! Caden was the most normal yet pointless bad guy. He didn't even seem 2 have a reason for anything he did, yet after some pretty bad crimes being committed he seems just like a regular Joe.
5. Hopes murder. It was strange caden seemed 2 just stroll in (apparently for a bit of forced hanky panky) without even checking if hope was alone (considering he had gotten away with it 4 yrs undetected he must be the LUCKIEST SOB EVER) she decides 2 suddenly confess that she will no longer just submit and be quiet and confesses 2 having evidence against him (why the hell wud u tell a baddy u shud fear that at all!!) And then again caden just wonders around looking for body disposal bags!
All in all I struggled with this book and the only reason I didn't just give up and declare it a DNF is because I have NEVER not finished a book, I also think my 2 stars are more than generous x
There were sooo many things wrong with this book I don't know wot 2 start with..! I'm actually having 2 sit and organise my dislike into categories. So okay..
1. The writing was bad, it was just bad! For example lines like the following came up constantly "what is wrong?" "what is happening?" and "what is the matter". Nobody talks like that! It's robotic, overly formal and makes the writing seem almost adolescent is quality.
2. The hero is supposed to be a young, cool playboy 2 start with but his thinking and speaking comes across old fashioned and gentlemanly at times so it didn't quite fit with the image it was like switching between fifty shades and pride and prejudice.
3. The discriptives!. For example every1 did EVERYTHING passionately at all times. They kissed passionately, made love passionately (then rolled over and passionately repeated it) his sister passionately hugged, kissed and humped every1s leg) it got boring. Also at 1 point H described "slapping teammates butt enthusiastically" wtf!? I think maybe it was just wrongly worded (maybe it shud have said supportively, altho it's still a bit strange) but enthusiastically just sounds like he cudnt get enuf of his mates ass!
3. The cheese factor. Now don't get me wrong I love a bit of cheesy clichés as much as the next person. I love some insta-love after knowing each other 3 seconds, I don't mind when the heroine gets sprogged up the first time a penis twitches in her direction, I can even tolerate that all heroine suffer from a strange kind of blindness where they walk around looking like selma hyack (without any effort on their part) yet seem 2 think they resemble the trunchball's dowdy sister but this book got so cheesy cheesy cliché mad that is stank like an old bree!
4. Worst villain ever!! Caden was the most normal yet pointless bad guy. He didn't even seem 2 have a reason for anything he did, yet after some pretty bad crimes being committed he seems just like a regular Joe.
5. Hopes murder. It was strange caden seemed 2 just stroll in (apparently for a bit of forced hanky panky) without even checking if hope was alone (considering he had gotten away with it 4 yrs undetected he must be the LUCKIEST SOB EVER) she decides 2 suddenly confess that she will no longer just submit and be quiet and confesses 2 having evidence against him (why the hell wud u tell a baddy u shud fear that at all!!) And then again caden just wonders around looking for body disposal bags!
All in all I struggled with this book and the only reason I didn't just give up and declare it a DNF is because I have NEVER not finished a book, I also think my 2 stars are more than generous x
November 26, 2016
Aaliyah Thomas has only trusted one other person and that person was ripped from her. Aaliyah knew she had no other choice and ran,now she has found herself in college trying her best to get by. The only positive is her roommate who has embraced her, but her roomates brother Ryde Knight hates her and she has no clue why.
Ryder is tired of the girls that want to use him for his status and money, it gets old quick and he believes Aaliyah is another one of them. However when Ryder realizes he has it all wrong he sets out on trying to win Aaliyah over, but she is not interested in getting to know him or is she?
This was an unexpected surprise. I liked Aaliyah instantly she is a smart girl who is focued on getting her life together. Ryder was a jerk, but he redeems himself. I look forward to more by this author.
Ryder is tired of the girls that want to use him for his status and money, it gets old quick and he believes Aaliyah is another one of them. However when Ryder realizes he has it all wrong he sets out on trying to win Aaliyah over, but she is not interested in getting to know him or is she?
This was an unexpected surprise. I liked Aaliyah instantly she is a smart girl who is focued on getting her life together. Ryder was a jerk, but he redeems himself. I look forward to more by this author.
September 10, 2014
It's written badly in a way that it doesn't flow, feels like an awkward conversations. I can't read like that, I've read to many books to put up with it.
November 18, 2014
One star strictly for writing and publishing a book, otherwise it was so not worth finishing....
June 21, 2014
I was lucky to be given a copy of this book to have a read through for an honest opinion.
First I have to say, I could not put this book down at all. I read it in a few hours.
Aaliyah Thomas had to cope with abuse, pain and fear all of her life. After the person, who meant the most to her is murdered, she escapes and flees to the other side of the country. She enrolls in a college, determined to go on with her life. What she does not know, is that the killer is looking for her and will do anything to find her.
Ryder Knight lives for basketball. He is a guy with a good heart. The only thing he misses is honesty. Most girls hang out with him because of his money. And when he meets Aaliyah, he doesn't trust her either.
Again the author wrote the book where you get to read both point of views – his and hers. I love this. The characters came alive the further into the book you went. It was an interesting story, which could happen in real life. I had empathy for the characters. I could not have predicted the ending. It was riveting and captivating. It absolutely consumed me.
Did I mention that this book was HOT? I loved the chemistry between Aaliyah and Ryder. They only had to be standing in the same room for there be sparks.
This is the second book the author has written and I love it! It's addictive, heartwarming, sexy, romantic, captivating, suspensful and so much more.
Highly recommend to anyone looking for a great read. A 5* read for me!
Keep them coming girl and I'll keep reading!
First I have to say, I could not put this book down at all. I read it in a few hours.
Aaliyah Thomas had to cope with abuse, pain and fear all of her life. After the person, who meant the most to her is murdered, she escapes and flees to the other side of the country. She enrolls in a college, determined to go on with her life. What she does not know, is that the killer is looking for her and will do anything to find her.
Ryder Knight lives for basketball. He is a guy with a good heart. The only thing he misses is honesty. Most girls hang out with him because of his money. And when he meets Aaliyah, he doesn't trust her either.
Again the author wrote the book where you get to read both point of views – his and hers. I love this. The characters came alive the further into the book you went. It was an interesting story, which could happen in real life. I had empathy for the characters. I could not have predicted the ending. It was riveting and captivating. It absolutely consumed me.
Did I mention that this book was HOT? I loved the chemistry between Aaliyah and Ryder. They only had to be standing in the same room for there be sparks.
This is the second book the author has written and I love it! It's addictive, heartwarming, sexy, romantic, captivating, suspensful and so much more.
Highly recommend to anyone looking for a great read. A 5* read for me!
Keep them coming girl and I'll keep reading!
January 20, 2017
Some spoilers.
Aaliyah Thomas - Heroine
Ryder Knight - Hero (College basketball player)
Aaliyah starts college. She is running away from home after she saw her sister murdered by her "uncle". Aaliyah has a roommate, Addison, who has a brother Ryder. Ryder and Addison are very rich and Ryder thinks that every girl that gets close to Addison or him just want their money. So when he meets Aaliyah, he is rude to her. They have this hate relationship which I love in books so I was willing to ignore some of the writing issues I had, but then it became too much.
Some of the verbiage was awkward. The writing was too descriptive. "I still have a couple of hours before we go to the mirage, so I go home and take a nap. It'll be good for me because it's going to be a long night." (Loc 1822)
Mediocre writing. How many times was I going to have to read about the "scent of his aftershave"??? (Loc 1059)
Ryder's attitude toward's his ex-girlfriend, Paris, was so stupid. It was so obvious what Paris was doing but how he reacted to Paris just showed me what a putz Ryder was in this story. Ryder said the only reason he trusted Paris was because she had her own money so she would never "use" him. He was an idiot.
Then there is the whole suspense with Caden. I just wanted it to end. It was a great concept but the execution was poor.
This is my opinion. You may love it.
Aaliyah Thomas - Heroine
Ryder Knight - Hero (College basketball player)
Aaliyah starts college. She is running away from home after she saw her sister murdered by her "uncle". Aaliyah has a roommate, Addison, who has a brother Ryder. Ryder and Addison are very rich and Ryder thinks that every girl that gets close to Addison or him just want their money. So when he meets Aaliyah, he is rude to her. They have this hate relationship which I love in books so I was willing to ignore some of the writing issues I had, but then it became too much.
Some of the verbiage was awkward. The writing was too descriptive. "I still have a couple of hours before we go to the mirage, so I go home and take a nap. It'll be good for me because it's going to be a long night." (Loc 1822)
Mediocre writing. How many times was I going to have to read about the "scent of his aftershave"??? (Loc 1059)
Ryder's attitude toward's his ex-girlfriend, Paris, was so stupid. It was so obvious what Paris was doing but how he reacted to Paris just showed me what a putz Ryder was in this story. Ryder said the only reason he trusted Paris was because she had her own money so she would never "use" him. He was an idiot.
Then there is the whole suspense with Caden. I just wanted it to end. It was a great concept but the execution was poor.
This is my opinion. You may love it.
December 11, 2014
What would you do if you walked in on your sister’s dead body? Then walked in the killer? Aaliyah is faced with that problem just after high school graduation. She does what most of us would do. Run away. Months later she finds herself at college, in the dorms. She know no one but quickly becomes friends with her roommate, Addison.
Ryder comes from a wealthy family, is a star college basketball player and is Addison’s brother. He instantly thinks all woman, especially Aaliyah, is after the family money and treats her like garbage. What he is really covering up with his ill temper is his desire to be with Aaliyah.
Aaliyah is keeping her past to herself because she is scared her sister’s killer will find her, and she will be next. Can she overcome her fears and turn him in? Can she trust anyone with her secrets? Will she get her happily ever after?
This is a good story, but the characters drove me crazy at some points. I guess that is what happens when you grow up and see the errors that come with youth. I was easily able to connect with the characters even if I thought they were making the wrong choices. The world is a big scary place, and when you don’t even trust your own feelings, it makes it hard to put your trust in others. ~ Devlynn, 3.5 stars
Ryder comes from a wealthy family, is a star college basketball player and is Addison’s brother. He instantly thinks all woman, especially Aaliyah, is after the family money and treats her like garbage. What he is really covering up with his ill temper is his desire to be with Aaliyah.
Aaliyah is keeping her past to herself because she is scared her sister’s killer will find her, and she will be next. Can she overcome her fears and turn him in? Can she trust anyone with her secrets? Will she get her happily ever after?
This is a good story, but the characters drove me crazy at some points. I guess that is what happens when you grow up and see the errors that come with youth. I was easily able to connect with the characters even if I thought they were making the wrong choices. The world is a big scary place, and when you don’t even trust your own feelings, it makes it hard to put your trust in others. ~ Devlynn, 3.5 stars
August 17, 2014
I was given a copy in exchange for an honest review. I really enjoyed this book. I was drawn in from the beginning. With all of the horrible events in Aaliyah's life you are hoping and praying she gets her HEA and finds peace. Upon entering college she is somewhat shy and leery to trust or open up to others. Eventually she meets a greet group of friends and Ryder. Oh Ryder he's so hot and sweet. Yeah I crushed on him! Their relationship doesn't come easy and there are some bumps in the road. Although when you let your guard down and give your trust and heart to another you may just find that Happily Ever After. Thank you for the chance to read and enjoy your book. Much love. <3
December 11, 2014
I received a copy of this book for an honest review.
I really enjoyed this book. Aaliyah was a great heroine. She wasn't needy or full drama; just the write type of heroine.
Noah, I really liked him and hope we get more of him in another book.
Ryder - well whats not to love. I love the way the he denies his interest in Aaliyah at first and it makes it that much more real.
Addison - was a good best friend and we got just enough about her not too much.
All in all without giving anything away, this book was a good read, good pace, great characters, and good story line.
I really enjoyed this book. Aaliyah was a great heroine. She wasn't needy or full drama; just the write type of heroine.
Noah, I really liked him and hope we get more of him in another book.
Ryder - well whats not to love. I love the way the he denies his interest in Aaliyah at first and it makes it that much more real.
Addison - was a good best friend and we got just enough about her not too much.
All in all without giving anything away, this book was a good read, good pace, great characters, and good story line.
July 30, 2014
I liked this book a lot!
Aaliyah had to suffer a lot, lost most people that she loved and had to stay for herself through college. She meets Ryder and after some time fall in love. There will be some nightmares in between but all ends well.
The author gives you the various characters POV's and that's awesome, because you can go through their minds!
The story is good, well written, some twists and turns and with a HEA!
Aaliyah had to suffer a lot, lost most people that she loved and had to stay for herself through college. She meets Ryder and after some time fall in love. There will be some nightmares in between but all ends well.
The author gives you the various characters POV's and that's awesome, because you can go through their minds!
The story is good, well written, some twists and turns and with a HEA!
August 20, 2014
This book has it all!! I could not put it down!! The story is well told and flows beautifully. You meet Aaliyah, who has witnessed a horrible act, and Ryder, the basketball star who thinks all women are after his money. It's a hot story with just the right amount of suspense to keep you guessing!! Lea J. hit it out of the park with this one! Keep them coming!!!
August 12, 2014
I received this book free in exchange for an honest review. I loved this book! There is romance plus suspense which is my favorite thing to read. Also, this author can really write which is a rarity. I highly recommend this book. Read it!
May 8, 2019
Sweet and turmoil abound
This was a good story. A little aggravating at times....lots of jumping to conclusions that ticked me off. Overall though it was good. This book had angst, little twists, sexy characters and young adult insecurities.
I would recommend this book
Thanks Jamie Nibarger Ellis
This was a good story. A little aggravating at times....lots of jumping to conclusions that ticked me off. Overall though it was good. This book had angst, little twists, sexy characters and young adult insecurities.
I would recommend this book
Thanks Jamie Nibarger Ellis
February 7, 2022
Get it here:
Amazon US * Amazon UK
If I had read this back when it first came out I would have absolutely loved it. Reading it now I did get a little disappointed there wasn't a bit more fleshing out of the story and more time for the hero to switch his feelings about the heroine, which seemed to happen in the span of two sentences. The angst level was still good though and exactly what I was looking for.
Amazon US * Amazon UK
If I had read this back when it first came out I would have absolutely loved it. Reading it now I did get a little disappointed there wasn't a bit more fleshing out of the story and more time for the hero to switch his feelings about the heroine, which seemed to happen in the span of two sentences. The angst level was still good though and exactly what I was looking for.
October 9, 2014
Review Courtesy of April Hollingworth
I couldn’t put it down. I had to find out what happened next, and any interruptions in my reading were very unwelcome.
Ryder’s attitude towards Aaliyah in the beginning is really bad, and you know he’s been hurt before, and it’s like a deep part of him knows that Aaliyah is the one girl who can either crush him completely or make him the happiest man in the world. If only he can learn to trust again.
Then we have Aaliyah. Her world has been literally torn apart. She’s had to run away to escape a killer. Start a new life and try to live, all the while terrified she’ll be found and killed, and if she lets anyone close to her, she could be putting their life in jeopardy too. So when Aaliyah meets Ryder and instantly feels attracted to him, to say she’s confused by his attitude is putting it mildly. The pair of them are terrified for different reasons, but you know that if they trust one another they will be a wonderful couple. You can’t help but root for them as well as want to throw them in a room and not let them out until they sort out their issues. I devoured this book, it was beautiful.
Opening Scene:
I enter the room with a glass in my hand.
The Review:
Abuse, pain, sorrow and fear are things Aaliyah has lived with all of her life. When she finds the body of the one person in her life who means the most to her, who made life worth living, murdered, she escapes and runs to the other side of the country. Believing she’s safe, she enrolls in a college and begins to live again. What she doesn’t know is the killer is after her, and will do anything to find her.
Ryder Knight is one of the most popular guys on campus. He lives for basketball, has a lot of friends and a good heart. The only thing missing in his life is honesty. Most people hang out with him because of his money. So knowing who’s sincere and who has hidden motives is something he finds hard to figure out.
Aaliyah and Ryder’s attraction is unmistakable and immediate; Ryder’s lack of trust ruins any chance of them becoming friends. To many times Ryder has been used by girls for his money and his success on the basketball court. Aaliyah knows she needs to break down the walls surrounding her heart and learn to trust once again. But looking over her shoulder, trying to figure out if she is safe, doesn’t make making friends easy. After all if the killer finds her, any friends she has could be in danger too. Can Ryder and Aaliyah break down the walls protecting each other’s hearts, or will their fears prevent them from having a happy ending? With danger lurking in the background, it may already be too late for their broken hearts to heal.
Notable Scene:
“I’m so sorry,” says the blonde apologetically as she hurriedly picks up her scattered things.
“It’s not your fault. I wasn’t looking where I was going, so I should be the one who should apologize,” I say and finally raise my gaze to her. Her head is still facing down, I think she’s looking for my phone.
“Here,” she says and extends her hand to give it to me, raising her gaze in the process. I am speechless for a few seconds. Squatting in front of me is the beauty from the coffee shop. Her light hair is falling on her shoulders, and her eyes, wow, her eyes, I’ve never seen such beautiful blue eyes. I could get lost in them. I clear my throat and rise to my feet.
“Oh, thank you, and again, I’m sorry for not looking where I was going.” She smiles, turns around and walks away. Just as I want to call after her and ask what her name is, Paris grabs my hand.
FTC Advisory: Lea provided me with a copy of Because of you by J. Lea. Kindle Edition. No goody bags, sponsorships, “material connections,” or bribes were exchanged for my review.
I couldn’t put it down. I had to find out what happened next, and any interruptions in my reading were very unwelcome.
Ryder’s attitude towards Aaliyah in the beginning is really bad, and you know he’s been hurt before, and it’s like a deep part of him knows that Aaliyah is the one girl who can either crush him completely or make him the happiest man in the world. If only he can learn to trust again.
Then we have Aaliyah. Her world has been literally torn apart. She’s had to run away to escape a killer. Start a new life and try to live, all the while terrified she’ll be found and killed, and if she lets anyone close to her, she could be putting their life in jeopardy too. So when Aaliyah meets Ryder and instantly feels attracted to him, to say she’s confused by his attitude is putting it mildly. The pair of them are terrified for different reasons, but you know that if they trust one another they will be a wonderful couple. You can’t help but root for them as well as want to throw them in a room and not let them out until they sort out their issues. I devoured this book, it was beautiful.
Opening Scene:
I enter the room with a glass in my hand.
The Review:
Abuse, pain, sorrow and fear are things Aaliyah has lived with all of her life. When she finds the body of the one person in her life who means the most to her, who made life worth living, murdered, she escapes and runs to the other side of the country. Believing she’s safe, she enrolls in a college and begins to live again. What she doesn’t know is the killer is after her, and will do anything to find her.
Ryder Knight is one of the most popular guys on campus. He lives for basketball, has a lot of friends and a good heart. The only thing missing in his life is honesty. Most people hang out with him because of his money. So knowing who’s sincere and who has hidden motives is something he finds hard to figure out.
Aaliyah and Ryder’s attraction is unmistakable and immediate; Ryder’s lack of trust ruins any chance of them becoming friends. To many times Ryder has been used by girls for his money and his success on the basketball court. Aaliyah knows she needs to break down the walls surrounding her heart and learn to trust once again. But looking over her shoulder, trying to figure out if she is safe, doesn’t make making friends easy. After all if the killer finds her, any friends she has could be in danger too. Can Ryder and Aaliyah break down the walls protecting each other’s hearts, or will their fears prevent them from having a happy ending? With danger lurking in the background, it may already be too late for their broken hearts to heal.
Notable Scene:
“I’m so sorry,” says the blonde apologetically as she hurriedly picks up her scattered things.
“It’s not your fault. I wasn’t looking where I was going, so I should be the one who should apologize,” I say and finally raise my gaze to her. Her head is still facing down, I think she’s looking for my phone.
“Here,” she says and extends her hand to give it to me, raising her gaze in the process. I am speechless for a few seconds. Squatting in front of me is the beauty from the coffee shop. Her light hair is falling on her shoulders, and her eyes, wow, her eyes, I’ve never seen such beautiful blue eyes. I could get lost in them. I clear my throat and rise to my feet.
“Oh, thank you, and again, I’m sorry for not looking where I was going.” She smiles, turns around and walks away. Just as I want to call after her and ask what her name is, Paris grabs my hand.
FTC Advisory: Lea provided me with a copy of Because of you by J. Lea. Kindle Edition. No goody bags, sponsorships, “material connections,” or bribes were exchanged for my review.
November 9, 2014
I was given a copy for an honest review.
Aaliyah lost the one person in her life that took care of her and was there for her through anything. Knowing the murderer made it that more hard to bear. Aaliyah moved across country to go to college and to escape and to hide from the killer. Hoping he wouldn't find her. Getting a great roommate Addison. She slowly becomes friends with a great group of people. She still holds herself back. She doesn't want to involve them in her life. Then comes Ryder, Addison's brother. He has had enough of girls just wanting him for his money. He feels an attraction to Aalyiah but why should she be any different from the other girls. yet there is something about her that makes it hard to stay away.
Ryder was an ass in the beginning with how he treated Aalyiah and when he realized she wasn't like he thought she was. She didn't want to give him the time of day. He wasn't giving up. Aalyiah was innocent. Never being in a relationship with a guy. She was confused about how Ryder was treating her. Yet she was attracted to him. As they become closer and Aalyiah's past starts to come back can Ryder protect her will he stick around. the book has it all, murder, suspense, some angst and lots of face fanning sex scenes. I loved Aalyiah and Ryder as a couple. They were two pieces of a puzzle that fit together so perfectly.
Aaliyah lost the one person in her life that took care of her and was there for her through anything. Knowing the murderer made it that more hard to bear. Aaliyah moved across country to go to college and to escape and to hide from the killer. Hoping he wouldn't find her. Getting a great roommate Addison. She slowly becomes friends with a great group of people. She still holds herself back. She doesn't want to involve them in her life. Then comes Ryder, Addison's brother. He has had enough of girls just wanting him for his money. He feels an attraction to Aalyiah but why should she be any different from the other girls. yet there is something about her that makes it hard to stay away.
Ryder was an ass in the beginning with how he treated Aalyiah and when he realized she wasn't like he thought she was. She didn't want to give him the time of day. He wasn't giving up. Aalyiah was innocent. Never being in a relationship with a guy. She was confused about how Ryder was treating her. Yet she was attracted to him. As they become closer and Aalyiah's past starts to come back can Ryder protect her will he stick around. the book has it all, murder, suspense, some angst and lots of face fanning sex scenes. I loved Aalyiah and Ryder as a couple. They were two pieces of a puzzle that fit together so perfectly.
February 4, 2015
What would you do if you walked in on your sister’s dead body? Then walked in the killer? Aaliyah is faced with that problem just after high school graduation. She does what most of us would do. Run away. Months later she finds herself at college, in the dorms. She know no one but quickly becomes friends with her roommate, Addison.
Ryder comes from a wealthy family, is a star college basketball player and is Addison’s brother. He instantly thinks all woman, especially Aaliyah, is after the family money and treats her like garbage. What he is really covering up with his ill temper is his desire to be with Aaliyah.
Aaliyah is keeping her past to herself because she is scared her sister’s killer will find her, and she will be next. Can she overcome her fears and turn him in? Can she trust anyone with her secrets? Will she get her happily ever after?
This is a good story, but the characters drove me crazy at some points. I guess that is what happens when you grow up and see the errors that come with youth. I was easily able to connect with the characters even if I thought they were making the wrong choices. The world is a big scary place, and when you don’t even trust your own feelings, it makes it hard to put your trust in others. ~ Devlynn, 3.5 stars
Ryder comes from a wealthy family, is a star college basketball player and is Addison’s brother. He instantly thinks all woman, especially Aaliyah, is after the family money and treats her like garbage. What he is really covering up with his ill temper is his desire to be with Aaliyah.
Aaliyah is keeping her past to herself because she is scared her sister’s killer will find her, and she will be next. Can she overcome her fears and turn him in? Can she trust anyone with her secrets? Will she get her happily ever after?
This is a good story, but the characters drove me crazy at some points. I guess that is what happens when you grow up and see the errors that come with youth. I was easily able to connect with the characters even if I thought they were making the wrong choices. The world is a big scary place, and when you don’t even trust your own feelings, it makes it hard to put your trust in others. ~ Devlynn, 3.5 stars
August 14, 2014
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4 stars
I was given a copy of this book for an honest review
This book was a quick and easy read. The story just flowed! You meet Aaliyah in the beginning and she has just witnessed something horrible. So what does she do? Well she does go to the police but they just laugh at her so she does the next best thing and she runs. She is starting her freshman year of college in a new town and doesn't know anyone.
She does make friends rather quickly but tries to keep them at arms length. It is what is best for them as she knows someone is looking for her. As it turns out though she can't keep them away these people want to be her friend and she realizes she needs them. Her best friend is a giggly girl, Addison, who shows her around. Of course Addison has a smoking hot brother too!! Ryder is guarded. But soon these two become serious.
Is it worth it to open up and share what Aaliyah knows? Can Ryder help and protect her? Or will it all end before it really begins??
This was a good story and I would recommend it to friends!
I was given a copy of this book for an honest review
This book was a quick and easy read. The story just flowed! You meet Aaliyah in the beginning and she has just witnessed something horrible. So what does she do? Well she does go to the police but they just laugh at her so she does the next best thing and she runs. She is starting her freshman year of college in a new town and doesn't know anyone.
She does make friends rather quickly but tries to keep them at arms length. It is what is best for them as she knows someone is looking for her. As it turns out though she can't keep them away these people want to be her friend and she realizes she needs them. Her best friend is a giggly girl, Addison, who shows her around. Of course Addison has a smoking hot brother too!! Ryder is guarded. But soon these two become serious.
Is it worth it to open up and share what Aaliyah knows? Can Ryder help and protect her? Or will it all end before it really begins??
This was a good story and I would recommend it to friends!
December 8, 2014
I was given a copy in exchange for my honest review.
I really enjoyed reading this book. I was addicted to it and couldn't put it down. After all the horrible things that Aaliyah has witnessed and gone through I'm glad she found Ryder. She was very leery at first to trust anyone but comes good friends with Addison and Noah. But then with Ryder giving her the stink eye I can't blame her at the beginning but she soon lets her walls down even though they get out back up again she eventually finds happiness. And Paris god I hate those type of girls, especially when they don't know what people like Aaliyah have gone through, glad we don't know what happened to her, hopefully working on the streets picking up litter. Noah he was a sweetheart and would've liked to have seen him settle down and fall in love maybe that could be another book along with Addison and Jackson????
Thank you for giving me the chance to read your book.
Excellent, keep up the good work and hopefully read many more of your books to come.
I really enjoyed reading this book. I was addicted to it and couldn't put it down. After all the horrible things that Aaliyah has witnessed and gone through I'm glad she found Ryder. She was very leery at first to trust anyone but comes good friends with Addison and Noah. But then with Ryder giving her the stink eye I can't blame her at the beginning but she soon lets her walls down even though they get out back up again she eventually finds happiness. And Paris god I hate those type of girls, especially when they don't know what people like Aaliyah have gone through, glad we don't know what happened to her, hopefully working on the streets picking up litter. Noah he was a sweetheart and would've liked to have seen him settle down and fall in love maybe that could be another book along with Addison and Jackson????
Thank you for giving me the chance to read your book.
Excellent, keep up the good work and hopefully read many more of your books to come.
December 4, 2014
I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
Man am I glad I signed up for this book.
Let me start by saying that I was going to do my review when I was only half way through, but then I read a couple bad reviews and let them get in my head so I said.....ok....maybe I should wait. Maybe it takes a turn for the worst and I wont like it as much by the end.
Didn't happen! I still loved it by the end. Maybe even a little bit more.
This story is the perfect combination of romance and suspense with a dash of thriller.
The story caught me and held me from the very first page. I had a hard time putting it down to go to bed last night.
This story was absolutely wonderful. I loved the characters. The story flowed seamlessly. Well edited from what I could tell, and I loved the way it was all wrapped up in the end. Overall a great read!
Man am I glad I signed up for this book.
Let me start by saying that I was going to do my review when I was only half way through, but then I read a couple bad reviews and let them get in my head so I said.....ok....maybe I should wait. Maybe it takes a turn for the worst and I wont like it as much by the end.
Didn't happen! I still loved it by the end. Maybe even a little bit more.
This story is the perfect combination of romance and suspense with a dash of thriller.
The story caught me and held me from the very first page. I had a hard time putting it down to go to bed last night.
This story was absolutely wonderful. I loved the characters. The story flowed seamlessly. Well edited from what I could tell, and I loved the way it was all wrapped up in the end. Overall a great read!
March 17, 2015
I am actually really impressed by this book. It's the first book I've read by J. Lea and it was a great one.
Let me just start out by saying that the cover is really beautiful. Now, for the book you meet Aaliyah who is starting over in a new city, new university. She's had a terrible past, one that no one should have to witness. And Ryder is a basketball player in the university , who doesn't trust easily and quickly turns down any hope of friendship between the two.
He then later realizes that he misunderstood, and they become friends and more later on. The things that happen to Aaliyah really breaks my heart. She's been through so much.
Let me just say that the secondary characters were also very well written. This book is definitely worth a read for those who love a little suspense, romance, etc.
Let me just start out by saying that the cover is really beautiful. Now, for the book you meet Aaliyah who is starting over in a new city, new university. She's had a terrible past, one that no one should have to witness. And Ryder is a basketball player in the university , who doesn't trust easily and quickly turns down any hope of friendship between the two.
He then later realizes that he misunderstood, and they become friends and more later on. The things that happen to Aaliyah really breaks my heart. She's been through so much.
Let me just say that the secondary characters were also very well written. This book is definitely worth a read for those who love a little suspense, romance, etc.
September 28, 2014
What a beautiful little read, i was given this book in return for a honest review.i was completly hooked on the first few pages, i found the story easy to follow, the characters are well discribed and lovable,Aaliyahs has a daunting past and hoping to find peace and happiness and maybe fall in love. and then you have ryder who thinks every ones after his money and acts a bit of a jerk, i dont like to do spoilers but what i can tell you is if your after a little twist and a book that keeps you guessing, AND A GREAT JORNEY THAT THIS BOOK TAKES YOU ON with a hint of some hot scenes then this is for you, well done j. lea well worth the 5 stars i have given , i will be defently looking out for more books from you, from a very happy customer xx
February 26, 2017
I was expecting a lot from this book. A new-adult college romance where the male lead is a basketball player... What's not to love, right?
Wrong.
- The writing was adolescent at best. The dialogues barely had any contractions (ex: "what is wrong?" x100), the adverbs were pretty much always the same. It felt off.
- The story was a mix of all the worse clichés from new-adult.
- The steamy scenes that I usually enjoy seemed ridiculous here, I mean 2 seconds to get to orgasm, come on!
- Finally, the characters seemed so shallow and stupid, I wanted to stab them or slap them or just stab myself so that it would finally end.
So yeah, it took me forever to finish this book and I would have given up if I didn't think it wasn't fair of me to write a review on an unfinished book...
Wrong.
- The writing was adolescent at best. The dialogues barely had any contractions (ex: "what is wrong?" x100), the adverbs were pretty much always the same. It felt off.
- The story was a mix of all the worse clichés from new-adult.
- The steamy scenes that I usually enjoy seemed ridiculous here, I mean 2 seconds to get to orgasm, come on!
- Finally, the characters seemed so shallow and stupid, I wanted to stab them or slap them or just stab myself so that it would finally end.
So yeah, it took me forever to finish this book and I would have given up if I didn't think it wasn't fair of me to write a review on an unfinished book...
April 14, 2015
I got the Copy for an Honest Review.
I have read Other books by J. Lea and Loved it But after reading Because Of You I fell in Love with her Writing.
Because Of You is a story of Aaliyah who has seen her sister got murdered in front of her and now the Murderer is after her life. The Story captivated me, it was packed full of Mystery, twist and turns. Lea knows how to grab her readers attention and deliver smooth and wonderfully written stories. You Can't afford to miss Ryder Knight. He is Yummy.
If You are new to Lea's books. I recommend you to read all three of her books. Believe Me they are Amazing. You won't regret it. I couldn't get enough of her books.
I have read Other books by J. Lea and Loved it But after reading Because Of You I fell in Love with her Writing.
Because Of You is a story of Aaliyah who has seen her sister got murdered in front of her and now the Murderer is after her life. The Story captivated me, it was packed full of Mystery, twist and turns. Lea knows how to grab her readers attention and deliver smooth and wonderfully written stories. You Can't afford to miss Ryder Knight. He is Yummy.
If You are new to Lea's books. I recommend you to read all three of her books. Believe Me they are Amazing. You won't regret it. I couldn't get enough of her books.
October 13, 2014
J lea is a new author for me ~ I read this book and it really affected me. Aaliyah was so innocent,had such a horrible hand dealt to her yet she remained strong. Ryder was really a special guy once you got through first impressions, you can't help but to love him. I loved the family dynamic of this basketball team!!! I liked how we were given parts of the story from Caden's POV, even though I wanted injure the man....badly. There were enough twists and turns to keep you involved & wanting to read to the end.
November 19, 2014
This book grabbed me on the first page and didn't let go until the last page! The characters are endearing and a little edgy. There are a few twists that will leave you saying "what the heck". If you have to work the next day don't start this book until the weekend, because you will be up all night reading this! I was! If you like a book that will keep you guessing, this is a great book for you!
dnf
August 22, 2014
DNF 60%
Ughhh boring and lame..
Ughhh boring and lame..
August 14, 2014
I loved this book. The romance between Ryder and Aaliyah is very sweet. There is just enough drama in it to keep you reading, but not too much. While you follow Aaliyah as she survives, her struggles become yours. You feel intertwined with her.
August 21, 2014
I enjoyed this quick read....couldn't put it down. Wish it could have been a series about several of the main characters but I'm glad we get to see how each of them ended up. Definite recommend!
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