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Not Yet #1
Not Yet
Emma Harris is learning that life is just a series of lessons.
Lesson #1: Nothing goes the way you plan.
Lesson #2: You can’t trust men. Especially not the pretty ones.
Lesson #3: Turns out, appearances are almost always deceiving.
Emma thinks she has life all figured out, and what she knows isn’t good. For years, she’s put her big sister, who was born with Down syndrome, first. Now Emma’s ready to start her own life, but fate has other plans. To do the right thing for the sister she loves, Emma’s dreams will just have to wait.
She doesn’t plan on meeting Landon — a rich, flirtatious jock, who never has to wait for anything. Not for attention, not for money, and certainly not for girls. Meeting Emma marks the first time in his life that he’s had to fight for something. And Landon doesn't know how to lose.
Emma has no interest in wasting her summer with a superficial guy like Landon. But very soon she realizes she is wrong about him. The question is, can she trust him? Or will he let her down like every other guy in her life? But most importantly, can Emma trust herself enough to live the life she's always dreamed of?
Life has a way of sneaking in the most important lessons when you aren't looking. And once the heart gets involved, that's when the real learning begins.
*** This book is intended for mature audiences. 18 and over!
Lesson #1: Nothing goes the way you plan.
Lesson #2: You can’t trust men. Especially not the pretty ones.
Lesson #3: Turns out, appearances are almost always deceiving.
Emma thinks she has life all figured out, and what she knows isn’t good. For years, she’s put her big sister, who was born with Down syndrome, first. Now Emma’s ready to start her own life, but fate has other plans. To do the right thing for the sister she loves, Emma’s dreams will just have to wait.
She doesn’t plan on meeting Landon — a rich, flirtatious jock, who never has to wait for anything. Not for attention, not for money, and certainly not for girls. Meeting Emma marks the first time in his life that he’s had to fight for something. And Landon doesn't know how to lose.
Emma has no interest in wasting her summer with a superficial guy like Landon. But very soon she realizes she is wrong about him. The question is, can she trust him? Or will he let her down like every other guy in her life? But most importantly, can Emma trust herself enough to live the life she's always dreamed of?
Life has a way of sneaking in the most important lessons when you aren't looking. And once the heart gets involved, that's when the real learning begins.
*** This book is intended for mature audiences. 18 and over!
273 pages, Paperback
First published July 25, 2014
260 people are currently reading
3103 people want to read
About the author
Laura Ward
10 books606 followersLaura Ward lives in Maryland with her loud and very loving three children and husband. She married her college sweetheart and is endlessly grateful for the support he has given her through all their years together, and especially toward her goal of writing books. When not picking up toy trucks, driving to lacrosse practice, or checking spelling homework, Laura is writing or reading romance novels. Her debut novel, NOT YET, is a Top 100 Amazon Bestseller.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 355 reviews
July 30, 2014
Arc kindly provided by the author for honest review
5++++ Read
First of all, I owe Laura a huge THANK YOU for giving me an ARC of this wonderful little gem. I stumbled upon it, the cover actually, from an email of one of the blogs I follow. The cover intrigued me instantly and then the blurb sold me on it. I contacted Laura, asking for an ARC and she happily obliged. This was one of those books I started and couldn't put down. It was a Friday night I started and cancelled my plans so I could stay home and just read.
From the moment Landon entered the screen on my kindle, I knew I would love him. First of all, the book takes place in the summer. Both MC's are working at the pool as lifeguards. Landon's a football player and starting school in the fall. He's popular, well-liked, athletic, charming, smart, sexy...sexy...sexy. And every chapter with his POV, I was either smiling or swooning. Or drooling. Whatever. But later on in the story, we learn some secrets about our tortured hero. My heart went out to him. I hated his parents. I loved his friends...well, there were times I wanted to beat one of them in particular up, but eventually it changed. I was happy.
Our protagonist, Emma has to learn life lessons the hard way. Her home life isn't all it seems. Her mom's a waitress, barely making ends meet. Her sister has Down's Syndrome, so she keeps her personal life to herself. That is until she and Landon spend more time together. They both learn a lot about life and love, all the while trying to keep their scorching attraction from getting in the way. But honestly, from the moment they meet, it's totally there. I was rooting for these two to get together. But I also loved seeing their relationship grow and develop at a steady pace. The sexy times were just off the charts. My kindle was melting with all the hot steam. Hot damn! Laura sure can write an intense sex scene!
But this story was more than just sex and fighting attraction. It was also fighting against circumstances and for what you believe in. These two didn't have it easy. A huge twist towards the middle really had me gritting my teeth and wanting to scream. But the way both Landon and Emma handled it was really mature and understandable. Their journey to find and keep love was a heartbreaking and inspiring one.
I loved Evie. She was such a fireball. She was strong and funny and so adorable, especially with her boyfriend Garrett. Landon's interactions with Evie were so heartwarming, I swooned and awwwwed, so much. He truly became the rock Emma needed in her life. He stuck up for her when needed and he fought for her the whole way. His love was sincere and sweet.
I highly recommend this book to romance lovers. It's a story about love, life and fighting the obstacles we face to get where we wanna be. The writing was engaging and flowed effortlessly. I don't even remember if there were errors, but if they were, it didn't take away from the story one bit. Like I said, once I started...I couldn't stop. It's a story to experience with characters that will break and warm your heart all at once.
Great job, Laura! I will definitely be reading more of your work. And thanks again for sending me an ARC.
Book Trailer
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v53Chd...
Wow!!!!!! This book was incredible. From start to finish. I devoured this baby and ate it up. This had the perfect mix of everything I need in my books. Best of all, it had Landon. Holy sweet Jesus. I love that sexy man!!!! I'm so elated to be one of the first to read and review this amazing story. It definitely taught me lots of life lessons. Add it to your TBR lists, people. It's a gem!!!
*full review to come*
5++++ Read
First of all, I owe Laura a huge THANK YOU for giving me an ARC of this wonderful little gem. I stumbled upon it, the cover actually, from an email of one of the blogs I follow. The cover intrigued me instantly and then the blurb sold me on it. I contacted Laura, asking for an ARC and she happily obliged. This was one of those books I started and couldn't put down. It was a Friday night I started and cancelled my plans so I could stay home and just read.
From the moment Landon entered the screen on my kindle, I knew I would love him. First of all, the book takes place in the summer. Both MC's are working at the pool as lifeguards. Landon's a football player and starting school in the fall. He's popular, well-liked, athletic, charming, smart, sexy...sexy...sexy. And every chapter with his POV, I was either smiling or swooning. Or drooling. Whatever. But later on in the story, we learn some secrets about our tortured hero. My heart went out to him. I hated his parents. I loved his friends...well, there were times I wanted to beat one of them in particular up, but eventually it changed. I was happy.
Our protagonist, Emma has to learn life lessons the hard way. Her home life isn't all it seems. Her mom's a waitress, barely making ends meet. Her sister has Down's Syndrome, so she keeps her personal life to herself. That is until she and Landon spend more time together. They both learn a lot about life and love, all the while trying to keep their scorching attraction from getting in the way. But honestly, from the moment they meet, it's totally there. I was rooting for these two to get together. But I also loved seeing their relationship grow and develop at a steady pace. The sexy times were just off the charts. My kindle was melting with all the hot steam. Hot damn! Laura sure can write an intense sex scene!
But this story was more than just sex and fighting attraction. It was also fighting against circumstances and for what you believe in. These two didn't have it easy. A huge twist towards the middle really had me gritting my teeth and wanting to scream. But the way both Landon and Emma handled it was really mature and understandable. Their journey to find and keep love was a heartbreaking and inspiring one.
I loved Evie. She was such a fireball. She was strong and funny and so adorable, especially with her boyfriend Garrett. Landon's interactions with Evie were so heartwarming, I swooned and awwwwed, so much. He truly became the rock Emma needed in her life. He stuck up for her when needed and he fought for her the whole way. His love was sincere and sweet.
I highly recommend this book to romance lovers. It's a story about love, life and fighting the obstacles we face to get where we wanna be. The writing was engaging and flowed effortlessly. I don't even remember if there were errors, but if they were, it didn't take away from the story one bit. Like I said, once I started...I couldn't stop. It's a story to experience with characters that will break and warm your heart all at once.
Great job, Laura! I will definitely be reading more of your work. And thanks again for sending me an ARC.
Book Trailer
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v53Chd...
Wow!!!!!! This book was incredible. From start to finish. I devoured this baby and ate it up. This had the perfect mix of everything I need in my books. Best of all, it had Landon. Holy sweet Jesus. I love that sexy man!!!! I'm so elated to be one of the first to read and review this amazing story. It definitely taught me lots of life lessons. Add it to your TBR lists, people. It's a gem!!!
*full review to come*
August 12, 2014
3.75 STARS
Not Yet is an emotional, heartwarming story about love, life, family and sacrifice.
Emma didn’t have an easy childhood. She always sacrificed her life and happiness for her family and made decisions thinking about the effect they would have on her sister who has Down Syndrome. Forced not only to graduate early, with a degree in teaching but moving home too to help her mother emotionally and financially, Emma is working as a lifeguard at the Country Club.
Emma learned not to show emotion, trust and never open up to anyone convinced that everybody lets you down and hurts you at some point. She doesn’t trust men, since her father abandoned her family. Being a bitch with people first before they got a chance to hurt her or her family is what she knows best.
Her mask is safe until she meets Landon, one of the lifeguards she’s in charge at the Country Club.
Landon is popular, constantly surrounded by girls and unlike Emma he is rich. Growing with a family who doesn’t care about him, the only think he cares about is football. Until Emma..Landon knows from the start Emma’s different from other girls and he doesn’t understand why she doesn’t like him. Confident and cocky, his only goal is to know her.
At first Emma thinks Landon is just another spoiled, selfish boy and that he is not one of the good guys. She’s surprised when she realize he’s not how she believed he is and that he tries to get to know her, the real Emma.
They start a summer fling, even if Landon has to leave for football at the end of it. Their relationship grows deeper each day and soon they become more that a hook up for each other.
Everything collapse when Emma finds out Landon lied to her. They still want to be with each other, but nothing can’t be the same, not anymore.
Even if it the plot and the main twist is nothing new, I like this one. With such a twist like this one, I expected more angst and more drama, but in the end I liked how the story progressed.
I found the first half of the book a little rushed, so I think it would have been better if the book was longer. Also, in the first half of the book there’s a lot of telling and less showing. As a reader I want to discover and figure out some things by myself, so this was a problem for me.
I can’t say I loved Emma, but I liked her. I admired her strength and dedication to her family, her love for her sister and how she treats her like she treats everyone else. There were times that she annoyed me big time, particularly when she judge Landon without knowing him, but she’s a bitch when he tries to judge her.
I loved Landon, even if she lies Emma, because the reason for his lies it’s childish and he’s not a bad guy. He’s sweet, caring, loving and he wants to be someone for her. I adored how he treats Emma and Emma’s sister. I also liked how Landon grew up, how he learns to treat everyone with respect and how he realize what’s really important in life.
There’s a lot of talk and information about genetic and neuro-developmental disorders which I found interesting and I really liked how the author treated these subjects - with very much care.
Like I said, the twist is nothing new, is even predictable at some point, but in the end it worked for me.
Overall, I like this one even if is not the best book I’ve read with this premise! It's sweet, has a great hero, a likeable heroine and an interesting enough storyline.
Remember it’s just not yet for us.
Not Yet is an emotional, heartwarming story about love, life, family and sacrifice.
Emma didn’t have an easy childhood. She always sacrificed her life and happiness for her family and made decisions thinking about the effect they would have on her sister who has Down Syndrome. Forced not only to graduate early, with a degree in teaching but moving home too to help her mother emotionally and financially, Emma is working as a lifeguard at the Country Club.
Emma learned not to show emotion, trust and never open up to anyone convinced that everybody lets you down and hurts you at some point. She doesn’t trust men, since her father abandoned her family. Being a bitch with people first before they got a chance to hurt her or her family is what she knows best.
I needed to stop pushing everyone away. I wanted to stop pushing everyone away. I had finally reached the point of surrender with my life.
Her mask is safe until she meets Landon, one of the lifeguards she’s in charge at the Country Club.
Landon is popular, constantly surrounded by girls and unlike Emma he is rich. Growing with a family who doesn’t care about him, the only think he cares about is football. Until Emma..Landon knows from the start Emma’s different from other girls and he doesn’t understand why she doesn’t like him. Confident and cocky, his only goal is to know her.
I don’t convince females to do anything with me. I’ve taken it one step further, I sort of like them to beg me.
At first Emma thinks Landon is just another spoiled, selfish boy and that he is not one of the good guys. She’s surprised when she realize he’s not how she believed he is and that he tries to get to know her, the real Emma.
They start a summer fling, even if Landon has to leave for football at the end of it. Their relationship grows deeper each day and soon they become more that a hook up for each other.
There is no one in the world for me but you. I’m ready. I want this with you.
Everything collapse when Emma finds out Landon lied to her. They still want to be with each other, but nothing can’t be the same, not anymore.
Landon was my alcohol, ”my addiction” and, yet, I couldn’t have it. I couldn’t touch a drop.
Even if it the plot and the main twist is nothing new, I like this one. With such a twist like this one, I expected more angst and more drama, but in the end I liked how the story progressed.
I found the first half of the book a little rushed, so I think it would have been better if the book was longer. Also, in the first half of the book there’s a lot of telling and less showing. As a reader I want to discover and figure out some things by myself, so this was a problem for me.
I can’t say I loved Emma, but I liked her. I admired her strength and dedication to her family, her love for her sister and how she treats her like she treats everyone else. There were times that she annoyed me big time, particularly when she judge Landon without knowing him, but she’s a bitch when he tries to judge her.
I loved Landon, even if she lies Emma, because the reason for his lies it’s childish and he’s not a bad guy. He’s sweet, caring, loving and he wants to be someone for her. I adored how he treats Emma and Emma’s sister. I also liked how Landon grew up, how he learns to treat everyone with respect and how he realize what’s really important in life.
There’s a lot of talk and information about genetic and neuro-developmental disorders which I found interesting and I really liked how the author treated these subjects - with very much care.
Like I said, the twist is nothing new, is even predictable at some point, but in the end it worked for me.
Overall, I like this one even if is not the best book I’ve read with this premise! It's sweet, has a great hero, a likeable heroine and an interesting enough storyline.
Baby, this is us and it’s sure as hell real. And I’m never, ever, fuckin letting go.
October 5, 2014
Check out the
BOOK TRAILER
It's live!!!
http://amzn.to/1DkqT5o
I've had the honor to read an advanced copy of this beautiful and heartwarming story about two people who meet during summer.
Emma is a very lovable girl but the plans she has for her own life, will have to wait so she can take care of her sister, Evie.
Landon's beautiful, sexy and has an easy life. He never has to wait for any money, attention or girls. Or so it seems...
When Landon has his eyes set on Emma, neither of them can deny the attraction and the electricity in the air, but Emma's been hurt enough to keep distance and has no interest to spend her time off wasting it on a boy like Landon.
Landon wants Emma, but she doesn't want to risk her heart being broken again, and Landon doesn't know how to lose...
With the new school year starting, they both have to focus on new goals, but will all the lessons Emma has learned in her life, keep her heart safe? Or is Landon not the guy she thought he was or could be...?
Beautiful debut novel with wonderful main and side characters that will make you laugh, cry and hope. A story that will make you think twice about the things you might have done in the past; knowing that even if life may not seem to be perfect, every person in your life is perfect, just the way they are...
I loved every single word of this story and I'd recommend it to anyone who wants to read a beautiful and heartwarming story that will leave you with a happy smile on your face.
It's live!!!
http://amzn.to/1DkqT5o
I've had the honor to read an advanced copy of this beautiful and heartwarming story about two people who meet during summer.
Emma is a very lovable girl but the plans she has for her own life, will have to wait so she can take care of her sister, Evie.
Landon's beautiful, sexy and has an easy life. He never has to wait for any money, attention or girls. Or so it seems...
When Landon has his eyes set on Emma, neither of them can deny the attraction and the electricity in the air, but Emma's been hurt enough to keep distance and has no interest to spend her time off wasting it on a boy like Landon.
Landon wants Emma, but she doesn't want to risk her heart being broken again, and Landon doesn't know how to lose...
With the new school year starting, they both have to focus on new goals, but will all the lessons Emma has learned in her life, keep her heart safe? Or is Landon not the guy she thought he was or could be...?
Beautiful debut novel with wonderful main and side characters that will make you laugh, cry and hope. A story that will make you think twice about the things you might have done in the past; knowing that even if life may not seem to be perfect, every person in your life is perfect, just the way they are...
I loved every single word of this story and I'd recommend it to anyone who wants to read a beautiful and heartwarming story that will leave you with a happy smile on your face.
Read
August 31, 2016DNF at 38%
It might be the terrible jet lag but this book is so not working for me. Basically consists of one big NA cliche after another and the writing is too immature for my tastes. How old are these characters, 15??
Copy provided by the author via Goodreads 'FirstReads Program' in exchange for an honest review.
It might be the terrible jet lag but this book is so not working for me. Basically consists of one big NA cliche after another and the writing is too immature for my tastes. How old are these characters, 15??
Copy provided by the author via Goodreads 'FirstReads Program' in exchange for an honest review.
August 13, 2014
What a lovely story ...
Story about forbidden relationship ... about discovering the important things in life ... helping others when they need it most ...
I truly enjoyed this one ... it made me think about life in general ...
I wish there were more books like this one, books that inspire ...
Landon was my alcohol—my addiction—and, yet, I couldn’t have it. I couldn’t touch a drop. I finally understood the depths people would go to in order to satisfy their greatest vice...
Story about forbidden relationship ... about discovering the important things in life ... helping others when they need it most ...
I truly enjoyed this one ... it made me think about life in general ...
I wish there were more books like this one, books that inspire ...
Landon was my alcohol—my addiction—and, yet, I couldn’t have it. I couldn’t touch a drop. I finally understood the depths people would go to in order to satisfy their greatest vice...
July 30, 2014
I love being able to read a novel from an author that I have never heard of. What I love even more is when that novel knocks the socks off of me and leaves me wanting more! When I read the blurb, it intrigued me. A summer fling romance, sure why not. What I got was just SOOOOO much more! I absolutely loved this book and devoured it! It is so well written, funny, witty, and my favorite element in a book, a little bit of heartbreak. I so did not expect this amazing of a novel and I am now telling everyone to go get this book! I loved that instead of chapters we have lessons. And at the end of each lesson we learn lesson learned quotes, these at times had me laughing my ass off! This is a complete story and told in dual POV.
Fresh out of college with her degree in teaching, she takes a summer job supervising life guards at the local country club while she applies for teaching jobs in the fall. She keeps a tough façade so everything assumes she’s a bitch and stays away from her. She has a sister with down syndrome who she loves and adores and will do anything for. Everything she does is to help her mom and sister make ends meet.
“…if I acted like a bitch, everyone would stay way from me. People let me down more often than not, so it wasn’t worth the time or effort.”
This hard exterior of hers has always worked until she met Landon. He works as a lifeguard and charms his way into Emma’s life. He comes across as being your typical jock but when it comes to Emma, nothing else matters to him. What should be a summer of partying and mindless hookups ends up being one of the best summers of his life getting to know Emma and her sister.
“Lesson learned: It took just one. One person. One friend. One act of kindness. Just one summer to completely change my world”.
Like all good summer romances, it comes to end and Landon has to leave for football camp. He has been struggling to tell Emma his secret but figures he will wait until he comes back. He knows this will change everything about their relationship but doesn’t have the guts to tell her. While Landon is away, Emma gets the news she’s been waiting for. She accepted a teaching position at the local high school. It wasn’t her first choice as she is only a couple years older but she knew she couldn’t be picky. With football camp and the first day of school being so close to each other, Emma and Landon never have a chance to speak. Emma assumes he has left for college and that they would catch up soon. Oh Lord have mercy this is where things go from all happy and in love to ohhhhhh… no he didn’t!!!!!!
The secret Landon has been hiding is enough to break Emma’s world apart! It’s her worst nightmare that she never saw coming. She is devastated but knows she must replace her mask and be the bitch she always has been. Months go by and the heartbreak and betrayal is something Emma knows she just must work through. She finally lets someone in just to have her heart ripped open. Gawh…. I live for these types of novels! And even though Landon betrays her, I have such the soft spot for him! I want to like him… I really do. Even with the betrayal I want them to work things out. I want them to be happy. He tries to convince Emma to give him time. That even though their timing is off, they will have their time when it’s right.
“Please don’t give up on us, Em. Let this be our “not yet”. Give me one more chance.”
Will Emma and Landon be able to work things out? Will Emma wait for him until their time is right? It’s a journey of many life lessons that will have you rooting for them just like I did. Laura Ward is definitely an author to keep an eye on! If I could give this novel more than 5 stars I so would! It's just that good!
Fresh out of college with her degree in teaching, she takes a summer job supervising life guards at the local country club while she applies for teaching jobs in the fall. She keeps a tough façade so everything assumes she’s a bitch and stays away from her. She has a sister with down syndrome who she loves and adores and will do anything for. Everything she does is to help her mom and sister make ends meet.
“…if I acted like a bitch, everyone would stay way from me. People let me down more often than not, so it wasn’t worth the time or effort.”
This hard exterior of hers has always worked until she met Landon. He works as a lifeguard and charms his way into Emma’s life. He comes across as being your typical jock but when it comes to Emma, nothing else matters to him. What should be a summer of partying and mindless hookups ends up being one of the best summers of his life getting to know Emma and her sister.
“Lesson learned: It took just one. One person. One friend. One act of kindness. Just one summer to completely change my world”.
Like all good summer romances, it comes to end and Landon has to leave for football camp. He has been struggling to tell Emma his secret but figures he will wait until he comes back. He knows this will change everything about their relationship but doesn’t have the guts to tell her. While Landon is away, Emma gets the news she’s been waiting for. She accepted a teaching position at the local high school. It wasn’t her first choice as she is only a couple years older but she knew she couldn’t be picky. With football camp and the first day of school being so close to each other, Emma and Landon never have a chance to speak. Emma assumes he has left for college and that they would catch up soon. Oh Lord have mercy this is where things go from all happy and in love to ohhhhhh… no he didn’t!!!!!!
The secret Landon has been hiding is enough to break Emma’s world apart! It’s her worst nightmare that she never saw coming. She is devastated but knows she must replace her mask and be the bitch she always has been. Months go by and the heartbreak and betrayal is something Emma knows she just must work through. She finally lets someone in just to have her heart ripped open. Gawh…. I live for these types of novels! And even though Landon betrays her, I have such the soft spot for him! I want to like him… I really do. Even with the betrayal I want them to work things out. I want them to be happy. He tries to convince Emma to give him time. That even though their timing is off, they will have their time when it’s right.
“Please don’t give up on us, Em. Let this be our “not yet”. Give me one more chance.”
Will Emma and Landon be able to work things out? Will Emma wait for him until their time is right? It’s a journey of many life lessons that will have you rooting for them just like I did. Laura Ward is definitely an author to keep an eye on! If I could give this novel more than 5 stars I so would! It's just that good!
July 13, 2014
This is a touching and heartwarming story about how sometimes it's just not the right time to fall in love, but just because the answer is "not yet" it doesn't mean it's "no." Ward created a cast of characters that were easy to care about and root for. I loved getting to see Landon's side of the story. His interactions with his best friend were funny and at the same time, we got to see that he wasn't just the cocky jock...he was sweet too. I loved watching him grow, mature, and become worthy of a relationship with Emma.
One of the things I particularly liked about this book was how it incorporated people with special needs in a way that shaped and molded the characters of the story into better people. I can't recall any other books that face this subject matter so strongly and positively. Ward has an incredible message and incorporates it wonderfully into Emma and Landon's story: Everyone is equal. And those who are special, even though they're different, have something to teach us if we pay attention.
I also loved how Emma and Landon learned life lessons throughout the book. It was clever how the lessons were highlighted at the end of each chapter, reminding the reader (sometimes with humor and sometimes with heartache) what Emma and Landon learned as they navigated the obstacles of their lives. Sometimes the life lessons were positive, sometimes they were negative, but there was always a message. The best one? "Sometimes it's the wait...the not yets of life that are the very best lessons of all to learn."
One of the things I particularly liked about this book was how it incorporated people with special needs in a way that shaped and molded the characters of the story into better people. I can't recall any other books that face this subject matter so strongly and positively. Ward has an incredible message and incorporates it wonderfully into Emma and Landon's story: Everyone is equal. And those who are special, even though they're different, have something to teach us if we pay attention.
I also loved how Emma and Landon learned life lessons throughout the book. It was clever how the lessons were highlighted at the end of each chapter, reminding the reader (sometimes with humor and sometimes with heartache) what Emma and Landon learned as they navigated the obstacles of their lives. Sometimes the life lessons were positive, sometimes they were negative, but there was always a message. The best one? "Sometimes it's the wait...the not yets of life that are the very best lessons of all to learn."
July 14, 2014
I am incredibly honored to have been given an advance copy of NOT YET to read and review. It has been such an immense pleasure to get to know Emma, Landon, Evie, Trevor, Amy, and Billy and the rest of the characters in this debut novel by Laura Ward.
I love reading. Without a doubt, my happy place is my sofa with my Kindle and a glass of wine. I love losing myself in a book, losing myself in the characters, feeling what they feel, and learning what they learn. NOT YET blew me away from page one because the characters are so thoughtfully written. I could feel the emotions that Emma and Landon were going through as their attraction grew, and feel the sadness and confusion when Landon's secret is revealed. Throughout that storyline, though not in the background, the stories of four individuals with different disabilities or challenges were woven in. I have never read a book that treated people with Downs Syndrome or Autism as important characters, much less gave them wonderful, inspirational and realistic story lines. This is groundbreaking, people! And it's wonderful. This book packs a powerful punch, and delivers a message of perseverance, love, and acceptance. Each chapter is ended with lessons that are learned, some funny, some heartbreaking, but all so very real. NOT YET promises to be a fan favorite.
OK, I can't lie. One of the other reasons that this book has soared to #1 for me are the steamy and deliciously sexy love scenes. Like "OMG I need a cold shower" sexy. My new book boyfriend is definitely Landon Washington! Readers will fall in love with Landon and will swoon over every description of his hot, young, body! ;-)
Laura Ward's debut novel is a pure gem, and I am sitting on the edge of my seat waiting to see just what she writes next. (hint, hint)
~tlc
I love reading. Without a doubt, my happy place is my sofa with my Kindle and a glass of wine. I love losing myself in a book, losing myself in the characters, feeling what they feel, and learning what they learn. NOT YET blew me away from page one because the characters are so thoughtfully written. I could feel the emotions that Emma and Landon were going through as their attraction grew, and feel the sadness and confusion when Landon's secret is revealed. Throughout that storyline, though not in the background, the stories of four individuals with different disabilities or challenges were woven in. I have never read a book that treated people with Downs Syndrome or Autism as important characters, much less gave them wonderful, inspirational and realistic story lines. This is groundbreaking, people! And it's wonderful. This book packs a powerful punch, and delivers a message of perseverance, love, and acceptance. Each chapter is ended with lessons that are learned, some funny, some heartbreaking, but all so very real. NOT YET promises to be a fan favorite.
OK, I can't lie. One of the other reasons that this book has soared to #1 for me are the steamy and deliciously sexy love scenes. Like "OMG I need a cold shower" sexy. My new book boyfriend is definitely Landon Washington! Readers will fall in love with Landon and will swoon over every description of his hot, young, body! ;-)
Laura Ward's debut novel is a pure gem, and I am sitting on the edge of my seat waiting to see just what she writes next. (hint, hint)
~tlc
July 29, 2014
I really love a book with a story line that keeps you hooked. There are characters developed, twists provided and expectations met that are very fulfilling to a reader. And the sex scenes are no disappointment either!
As the mother of a grown son with disabilities I loved the respectful treatment of each of the characters who have unique challenges in the book. As a reader you will see ABILITY jumping out from the concept of disability as you get to know these characters.
As the mother of a grown son with disabilities I loved the respectful treatment of each of the characters who have unique challenges in the book. As a reader you will see ABILITY jumping out from the concept of disability as you get to know these characters.
August 11, 2014
I enjoyed this book from the minute I picked it up. I love and appreciate the authors writing style. She has the unique talent to be able to keep the words flowing smoothly, making the audience fall in love with her characters, and teach us about the special needs community without being preachy. And I really appreciated and related to her life lessons, either with a tear or a giggle. I am a true fan of Laura Ward and wait anxiously for her next book.
August 20, 2014
4 beautiful stars.
Jenny: What a beautiful, heart-warming and sweet read this was Gitte. I adored this book! It carried such an important message, had a host of engaging and loveable characters…not to mention a twist that made me gasp!
“I won’t give up on you, and I won’t give up on us.”
When we were sent this book to review the author expressed such a love for her secondary characters that we wanted to meet them immediately. After meeting them it’s easy to see why Laura Ward loves them so much. They were inspiring and captivating and completely stole my heart with their innocence and honesty and with their hopes and aspirations they showed us that despite their disabilities they wanted to achieve the same things in life we all do.
“At the end of the day, people with disabilities are just people. Treat them with respect, just like you treat anyone else. Talk to them normally – just like anyone else. And, this is the hard part, hold them to the same expectations you hold everyone else…… if you can do that, you’ll learn something magical.”
And I did learn something magical! I also fell head over heels for our hero Landon. Oh sure, at first glance he came across as an over indulged, cocky good looking rich boy, but his cheekiness soon gave way to something much deeper. Boy, did this guy grow in character! My heart was in fear of bursting at times with the sensitivity and beauty of what lay beneath the facade.
“You’re all in my head. I can’t stop thinking about you.”
“Good. You’ve gotten to me, too.”
Emma had made a lot of sacrifices but never felt owed. Everything she did what out of love and loyalty to her family and she had built up some pretty big walls and had some strong ideas about men. Watching Landon break those walls was a sight to behold and both learnt life lessons along the way.
“I think he loves you, and I think you should love him back.”
If readers are looking for a heartfelt, sweet, witty, beautiful romantic story that’s also inspiring with a deep sense of hope and love then Not Yet is a definite recommended read. Even though I found the start a little hard to get into, I soon settled in and became immersed in story. How did you feel Gitte?
Gitte: I absolutely fell in love with this story. I will admit to struggling in the beginning, however once the momentum built and the Author hit her stride; when her heart started to make her words pound and reverberate into mine, I fell in love and felt every emotion, character struggle and every ounce of courage. Fear of what we don’t know nor understand can have a face. It’s a face we all need to get to know because it can be magical and beautiful and its innocence shines as bright as a star in the night sky.
‘Life Lesson: There are times in life when people cause you to think you have lost it all. That it will never get better. That you will never recover. These are the times when the only thing to do is to pick your head up, look those assholes right in the eye, and fucking finish strong.’
There’s some absolutely amazing and extremely important messages in Not Yet woven into an inspiring romance and it’s beautifully executed. Landon was a gorgeous young man who went through an amazing transformation. He showed what was truly behind a ‘society and family’ inspired façade. It was always in him but it was brought to the surface by the quiet and unassuming Emma. Such a sweet and driven girl who wanted the world to see the beauty in life, love and humanity.
‘He was special, and he was everything I never knew I needed in my life.’
There are so many ‘not yet’s’ in life, some more poignant than others and Emma’s and Landon’s ‘Not Yet’ was such a beauty; so meaningful, so incredibly sweet and innocent and so awe inspiring.
“Remember…it’s just not yet for us.”
Life lessons ~ Laura Ward truly shows the importance of standing up for what you believe in no matter how strongly the resulting spotlight shines on you. Definitely a highly recommended read from me too!
**Reviewed off an ARC copy provided by the author**
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July 18, 2014
This book was amazing and I did not want to put it down. The characters were well developed and so real. I enjoyed reading from both Emma and Landon's perspectives. But my favorite aspect was how Ward captured the perspective of the characters with disabilities, both children and young adults. In my opinion, it gave great depth to the story and a look into the world that many are not exposed to due to lack of exposure, knowledge, awareness, and fear. Revealing to the public how these individuals are just that, real people with hopes and dreams, from whom all of us can learn, really makes this author a step above.
Ward truly developed each character, I enjoyed how each character learned from one another, building and changing who they become, which is very real and crucial at the ages of the characters. Ward really delved into the emotions of the main characters, Emma and Landon, with the reader feeling what they felt, imagining being in their shoes with their so called baggage. I also loved how she included an Epilogue from both characters perspectives, making the book feel complete.
And of course who can leave out the romance...!
Ward's descriptive yet tasteful prose places the reader in the heat of the moment of sexual tension, teasing, and excitement, touching on all of the senses.
So in summary, excellent young adult novel with intriguing storyline, character development, true life lessons, and of course, STEAM!
You will not be disappointed no matter what your age or typical genre.
Ward truly developed each character, I enjoyed how each character learned from one another, building and changing who they become, which is very real and crucial at the ages of the characters. Ward really delved into the emotions of the main characters, Emma and Landon, with the reader feeling what they felt, imagining being in their shoes with their so called baggage. I also loved how she included an Epilogue from both characters perspectives, making the book feel complete.
And of course who can leave out the romance...!
Ward's descriptive yet tasteful prose places the reader in the heat of the moment of sexual tension, teasing, and excitement, touching on all of the senses.
So in summary, excellent young adult novel with intriguing storyline, character development, true life lessons, and of course, STEAM!
You will not be disappointed no matter what your age or typical genre.
August 5, 2014
Never miss a chance to dance. Finish strong!
An outstanding and beautifully written debut novel by Laura Ward. There are so many special phrases worth quoting, along with lessons to be learned throughout this heart-tugging story. Charming and enticing characters in both the lead and extra-special secondary cast just grab hold and make you want them as friends for life.
Emphasizing the developing relationship between our h/h really gives readers the chance to know and embrace all that is Emma and Landon. Although readers will most likely begin to figure the true nature of the plot early on, it’s a bit of a surprise and one that is written well. The dual POV makes it all the better.
There is turmoil in both of their young lives. It’s not overdone or over-plotted – just a realistic and believable story of young love, the fun and laughter of summer romance, and the complications and heartbreak that often come along for the ride.
I’m anxious to see what comes next from this new author! A big applause goes to her as well for the realistic and respectful manner in which she handles the special challenges facing some of the characters in this book.
An outstanding and beautifully written debut novel by Laura Ward. There are so many special phrases worth quoting, along with lessons to be learned throughout this heart-tugging story. Charming and enticing characters in both the lead and extra-special secondary cast just grab hold and make you want them as friends for life.
Emphasizing the developing relationship between our h/h really gives readers the chance to know and embrace all that is Emma and Landon. Although readers will most likely begin to figure the true nature of the plot early on, it’s a bit of a surprise and one that is written well. The dual POV makes it all the better.
There is turmoil in both of their young lives. It’s not overdone or over-plotted – just a realistic and believable story of young love, the fun and laughter of summer romance, and the complications and heartbreak that often come along for the ride.
I’m anxious to see what comes next from this new author! A big applause goes to her as well for the realistic and respectful manner in which she handles the special challenges facing some of the characters in this book.
August 11, 2014
*****5 Complete Stars*****
This book was such a wonderful read. I feel in love with Emma, Landon and all the characters. This story is one of trust, love, hope and faith.
Landon was cocky, swoon worthy, jock and had girls falling at his feet. Emma was the opposite. She was devoted, loving, caring and wall built of steel around her heart. Together they are able to trust, love, have faith and hope.
I also have to say that the underlying story about intellectual disabilites was written perfectly.
This book made me cry, laugh, cross my fingers and swoon. All in all a wonderfully written book that is a MUST READ!!
This book was such a wonderful read. I feel in love with Emma, Landon and all the characters. This story is one of trust, love, hope and faith.
Landon was cocky, swoon worthy, jock and had girls falling at his feet. Emma was the opposite. She was devoted, loving, caring and wall built of steel around her heart. Together they are able to trust, love, have faith and hope.
I also have to say that the underlying story about intellectual disabilites was written perfectly.
This book made me cry, laugh, cross my fingers and swoon. All in all a wonderfully written book that is a MUST READ!!
August 5, 2014
Wow! I mean just WOW! Beautiful story that has you all worked up for both Emma and Landon. The secret/twist was easily guessable once I came across it ... but I didn't see it coming until it actually came. Landon ... beautiful beautiful man! I felt for him ... truly did. Emma ... so broken bitter and alone! Taking care of her big sister who has Down Syndrome made her really miss out on a lot of things. She had loyalty to her mother and to Evie to help them out which is wonderful. When her and Landon meet you could just tell that they would have something special. For Landon meeting Emma completely changed his way of thinking and seeing the world. Their journey was heartbreaking and uplifting. I rooted for them from the beginning!!! The message behind the story is unbelievable and anyone who has a close someone to their heart that suffers from anytype of disability whether physical or mental will cherish this story as I am til the very very end! I loved the ending and wouldn't have it any other way!!! 5+ Not Yet Stars!!!!!
August 8, 2019
I picked this book up as a lighthearted, stress-free beach read, and was so pleasantly surprised by the depth and complexity of this debut novel!!!! From the endearing, awkward moments between Emma and Landon in their "first loves", to the heart warming, protective relationship between Emma and Evie as they navigate the system for people with disabilities, Ward does not disappoint. The reader truly feels for each character, and gets to know each one as if living in the book itself. I couldn't put the book down and look forward to Ward's future in writing!
August 11, 2014
As you know, I have stopped writing reviews in turn for focussing on my writing. But I did say if a book I NEEDED you all to read came along, then I would write a review for it. And here it comes. I HAVE a book for you – Not Yet by Laura Ward. I need to write this review, I need you all to read it and just bask in the beauty of the book with me. Because it is such a 5 star book, its out of this work.
From never reading a book about people with disabilities to finding a whole array and gobbling them down like they are my next breath, Not Yet is definitely a top contender. As a debut novel, Laura pulled me in. Her writing, the story, it hooked me in and I read this book in about three hours, only stepping to express my emotions for what was happening. From smiling, to giggles, to the steam factor. And then the twist. Oh man, my heart stopped, and I kept re-reading that passage. Eyes wide open in shock. And then I felt the emotions from Emma and Landon. The heartbreak, the pain and love. Laura had me throwing my kindle, clutching it to my chest and I cannot think of a better book to read on my lazy Sunday morning.
Not Yet is about Emma. She’s had to finish college early to come home and help her mother out with bills and her sister, Evie, who has Down’s Syndrome. Over the summer she takes a job in a country club managing lifeguards where she meets the devilishly handsome, Landon.
Landon slowly breaks down Emma’s walls and the more time they spend together, the more they fall, but a secret comes to light and ends everything. But they say love prevails, so will it for both Landon and Emma when it really counts?
I was sold on this book from the synopsis and cover and then we meet our two characters and I was sucked into them.
Emma is a strong character. She knows what she wants and is determined to get there but her plans are put on hold when she had to return home. She puts her walls up, she’s bitchy and argumentative and keeps to herself, keeps her personal life private. She loves her family hard, especially her sister and you can really see the love she has for Evie. She will do anything for her older sister. She’s old beyond her years but there is something utterly special about Emma that I was smiling at everything she was doing. Proving and showing that everyone is equal, that everyone is the same regardless of who you are, regardless of your disability. We all want the same – to have and to be loved.
I loved watching her walls break down around Landon. Loved seeing her carefree and smiling and giggling and doing things twenty-one years old should be doing. She learnt life lessons along the way, both negative and positive but it all comes down to learning. Never regretting anything you do because it leads you to the path you finish on. The path in which love prevails if you just wait. If you love hard and deep enough, true love will always be there. Sure Emma went through some dark paths; heartbreak, shock, anger and gossip but she got through it. She proved how strong and selfless and amazing she was and she’s a character that everyone should look up to.
I was hooked on Landon from then get-go. That smoking hot, cocky guy who has all the girls falling at his feet? Who wouldn’t be a part of that? Emma, that’s for sure. A footballer who is starting school in the fall, he’s superficial. He acts all cocky and like a playboy but there’s so much more to him. So much underneath that façade that that side of him gets stripped away the more he spends with Emma.
I loved the changes in Landon. The more time he spent with Evie and Emma, the more he moulded into the guy who was always there, just hidden. He proved himself, he proved he wasn’t an ass, he proved just how amazing he was, asking questions about Evie, helping out Trevor and helping him progress with the water and the pool. I was laughing at him making a fool of himself, swooning over everything he was saying and doing to Emma and I just loved seeing them together, seeing him carefree and seeing him care. He learns some lessons too, about himself, about life and love. About secrets and heartbreak. He begins to see things differently but when his secret comes out, everything around him and Emma comes crashing down. His secret shocked me to the depths. I was not exprecting something like that and it broke trust and everything between them. You could feel the pain from Landon. How utterly upset and shocked and disappointed he was in himself for keeping it from Emma.
The ultimate betrayal. But I loved how he fought for her. He fought for her love, for his love and he would wait forever for you. A year to him was nothing when the end was the love of his life. You see a massive change in Landon. From cocky to loving. From superficial to being his true self. Everyone could see it and I was so proud of him for everything he did throughout the book.
It wasn’t just Emma and Landon’s journey, it was Trevor and Billy and Evie and Garrett and Amy’s journey too. You meet them, you love them and you root for all of them. They all have disabilities but do they let them hinder them? No, not by any means and you feel so happy for them, that they grow stronger and more resilient everyday, teaching us that no matter who you are, you can do it, regardless.
What I adored about this book was that the main focus was love, in all kinds. That everyone deserves something and someone special. How disabilities shouldn’t matter, that we should all be treated equally, because at the end of the day, we ARE all equals. I loved that Laura integrated different people with special needs. From Down’s Syndrome, to Autism and she made me really open my eyes and learn along with Landon. People with special needs can teach us so much more than we can teach them. They are truly amazing and they teach Landon and Emma, at times, so much more. About love, about life and being in the moment.
Please read this book. I really need you to. It will change your whole perception on everything. It really did to me.
From never reading a book about people with disabilities to finding a whole array and gobbling them down like they are my next breath, Not Yet is definitely a top contender. As a debut novel, Laura pulled me in. Her writing, the story, it hooked me in and I read this book in about three hours, only stepping to express my emotions for what was happening. From smiling, to giggles, to the steam factor. And then the twist. Oh man, my heart stopped, and I kept re-reading that passage. Eyes wide open in shock. And then I felt the emotions from Emma and Landon. The heartbreak, the pain and love. Laura had me throwing my kindle, clutching it to my chest and I cannot think of a better book to read on my lazy Sunday morning.
Not Yet is about Emma. She’s had to finish college early to come home and help her mother out with bills and her sister, Evie, who has Down’s Syndrome. Over the summer she takes a job in a country club managing lifeguards where she meets the devilishly handsome, Landon.
Landon slowly breaks down Emma’s walls and the more time they spend together, the more they fall, but a secret comes to light and ends everything. But they say love prevails, so will it for both Landon and Emma when it really counts?
I was sold on this book from the synopsis and cover and then we meet our two characters and I was sucked into them.
Emma is a strong character. She knows what she wants and is determined to get there but her plans are put on hold when she had to return home. She puts her walls up, she’s bitchy and argumentative and keeps to herself, keeps her personal life private. She loves her family hard, especially her sister and you can really see the love she has for Evie. She will do anything for her older sister. She’s old beyond her years but there is something utterly special about Emma that I was smiling at everything she was doing. Proving and showing that everyone is equal, that everyone is the same regardless of who you are, regardless of your disability. We all want the same – to have and to be loved.
I loved watching her walls break down around Landon. Loved seeing her carefree and smiling and giggling and doing things twenty-one years old should be doing. She learnt life lessons along the way, both negative and positive but it all comes down to learning. Never regretting anything you do because it leads you to the path you finish on. The path in which love prevails if you just wait. If you love hard and deep enough, true love will always be there. Sure Emma went through some dark paths; heartbreak, shock, anger and gossip but she got through it. She proved how strong and selfless and amazing she was and she’s a character that everyone should look up to.
I was hooked on Landon from then get-go. That smoking hot, cocky guy who has all the girls falling at his feet? Who wouldn’t be a part of that? Emma, that’s for sure. A footballer who is starting school in the fall, he’s superficial. He acts all cocky and like a playboy but there’s so much more to him. So much underneath that façade that that side of him gets stripped away the more he spends with Emma.
I loved the changes in Landon. The more time he spent with Evie and Emma, the more he moulded into the guy who was always there, just hidden. He proved himself, he proved he wasn’t an ass, he proved just how amazing he was, asking questions about Evie, helping out Trevor and helping him progress with the water and the pool. I was laughing at him making a fool of himself, swooning over everything he was saying and doing to Emma and I just loved seeing them together, seeing him carefree and seeing him care. He learns some lessons too, about himself, about life and love. About secrets and heartbreak. He begins to see things differently but when his secret comes out, everything around him and Emma comes crashing down. His secret shocked me to the depths. I was not exprecting something like that and it broke trust and everything between them. You could feel the pain from Landon. How utterly upset and shocked and disappointed he was in himself for keeping it from Emma.
The ultimate betrayal. But I loved how he fought for her. He fought for her love, for his love and he would wait forever for you. A year to him was nothing when the end was the love of his life. You see a massive change in Landon. From cocky to loving. From superficial to being his true self. Everyone could see it and I was so proud of him for everything he did throughout the book.
It wasn’t just Emma and Landon’s journey, it was Trevor and Billy and Evie and Garrett and Amy’s journey too. You meet them, you love them and you root for all of them. They all have disabilities but do they let them hinder them? No, not by any means and you feel so happy for them, that they grow stronger and more resilient everyday, teaching us that no matter who you are, you can do it, regardless.
What I adored about this book was that the main focus was love, in all kinds. That everyone deserves something and someone special. How disabilities shouldn’t matter, that we should all be treated equally, because at the end of the day, we ARE all equals. I loved that Laura integrated different people with special needs. From Down’s Syndrome, to Autism and she made me really open my eyes and learn along with Landon. People with special needs can teach us so much more than we can teach them. They are truly amazing and they teach Landon and Emma, at times, so much more. About love, about life and being in the moment.
Please read this book. I really need you to. It will change your whole perception on everything. It really did to me.
July 17, 2014
Not Yet by Laura Ward was an unexpected story of how true love can stand the test of time and how one person can actually change how you view the world and make you a better person. Each life lesson that Emma felt she "learned" had both good and bad points, and it allowed the reader to truly relate to her story of falling in love for the first time, the heartache that accompanied that first love and the struggle to either follow her dreams or stay to support her family as she felt she needed to do. I would rate this book 4 stars and would highly recommend this to everyone to read!
"I was pissed that he had gotten under my skin so damn quickly. The wuestion that most baffled me was, why?"
Emma had a way of living her life, she didn't let anyone in, especially guys, as she felt that everyone eventually lets you down at some point. She had faced quite a few disappointments in her life, not ever knowing her father, having to graduate college early to come home and support her family because her mother couldn't do it alone, and because of all of this she shut herself off from everyone who tried to get close to her. That is until she met Landon, one of the lifeguards she was in charge with at the country club. Landon worked his way into Emma's world and her heart a little at a time until she was falling in love with him. A love that she yearned to express to him, finally letting down her walls and trusting him completely. A love that almost shattered her when she turned around during her first day at her new job and discovered that everything he ever said to her was a complete lie.
"She wanted to know what was inside of me. If this was what real, true intimacy was, then sign me up. This must be what a true family felt like."
Landon grew up in a family of wealth, where football was the be all end all and where he spent his time being popoluar, hanging out with different girls, and spending time with the boys, like normal teenagers do. That is until he met Emma. Emma showed him, through her interactions with her sister Evie would had down syndrome and Trevor, the autistic boy at the country club pool, that there was more to life then just coasting along, living for other people and accepting how everyone thought you should be and how you should act. He began to pave his own way, and as he did so, his feelings for Emma continued to grow into a love that he wanted to express for the first time in his life, a love that he knew was forever for him and hopefully for her. Until that fateful day where everything shattered in the blink of an eye. His secret was revealed and not through his own doing, but circumstances that were beyond his control, although the reader may lean to believe he should have revealed to Emma long ago.
The struggle of whether or not their love for each other could survived one year apart was the basis of this story and it drew the reader in, wondering if they would be able to eventually find their way back to each other. Would Emma be able to once again trust Landon and let her guard down? Or would she walk away for good? Only time would tell how their love story would end. Landon continued to prove that his love was realy to Emma, perhaps not directly as he was unable to do so, but in the way he started to live his life and his actions when no one else was looking. It seemed that Emma fell a little bit more in love with him as time went on, how he started to treat Billy and Amy, people he had previous ignored at school, he now went out his way to help and befriend. Landon outwardly became the person that Emma always knew that he was, the person he had showed her over the summer that no one else had gotten to experience until now.
There were times when I was a little teary eyed at the situations that took place during the book and as I was reading, I was hoping that their love story would have a happy ending. Although the road to coming back to each other was paved with heartache, difficulties and some pretty serious obstacles, Landon and Emma never seemed to waiver from how they felt about each other, even when they weren't together. This book is a must read for all! Amazing Job Laura Ward!!!
"Over the past fiver years. He taught me to be patient, to wait for what is really important, to trust that he never would leave me, and to believe in love. And I did. I believed in love. I saw it in others around me and I felt it in my heart each day..."
"I was pissed that he had gotten under my skin so damn quickly. The wuestion that most baffled me was, why?"
Emma had a way of living her life, she didn't let anyone in, especially guys, as she felt that everyone eventually lets you down at some point. She had faced quite a few disappointments in her life, not ever knowing her father, having to graduate college early to come home and support her family because her mother couldn't do it alone, and because of all of this she shut herself off from everyone who tried to get close to her. That is until she met Landon, one of the lifeguards she was in charge with at the country club. Landon worked his way into Emma's world and her heart a little at a time until she was falling in love with him. A love that she yearned to express to him, finally letting down her walls and trusting him completely. A love that almost shattered her when she turned around during her first day at her new job and discovered that everything he ever said to her was a complete lie.
"She wanted to know what was inside of me. If this was what real, true intimacy was, then sign me up. This must be what a true family felt like."
Landon grew up in a family of wealth, where football was the be all end all and where he spent his time being popoluar, hanging out with different girls, and spending time with the boys, like normal teenagers do. That is until he met Emma. Emma showed him, through her interactions with her sister Evie would had down syndrome and Trevor, the autistic boy at the country club pool, that there was more to life then just coasting along, living for other people and accepting how everyone thought you should be and how you should act. He began to pave his own way, and as he did so, his feelings for Emma continued to grow into a love that he wanted to express for the first time in his life, a love that he knew was forever for him and hopefully for her. Until that fateful day where everything shattered in the blink of an eye. His secret was revealed and not through his own doing, but circumstances that were beyond his control, although the reader may lean to believe he should have revealed to Emma long ago.
The struggle of whether or not their love for each other could survived one year apart was the basis of this story and it drew the reader in, wondering if they would be able to eventually find their way back to each other. Would Emma be able to once again trust Landon and let her guard down? Or would she walk away for good? Only time would tell how their love story would end. Landon continued to prove that his love was realy to Emma, perhaps not directly as he was unable to do so, but in the way he started to live his life and his actions when no one else was looking. It seemed that Emma fell a little bit more in love with him as time went on, how he started to treat Billy and Amy, people he had previous ignored at school, he now went out his way to help and befriend. Landon outwardly became the person that Emma always knew that he was, the person he had showed her over the summer that no one else had gotten to experience until now.
There were times when I was a little teary eyed at the situations that took place during the book and as I was reading, I was hoping that their love story would have a happy ending. Although the road to coming back to each other was paved with heartache, difficulties and some pretty serious obstacles, Landon and Emma never seemed to waiver from how they felt about each other, even when they weren't together. This book is a must read for all! Amazing Job Laura Ward!!!
"Over the past fiver years. He taught me to be patient, to wait for what is really important, to trust that he never would leave me, and to believe in love. And I did. I believed in love. I saw it in others around me and I felt it in my heart each day..."
July 29, 2014
This beautiful story will touch your heart & make you think about what is truly important in life. From the well-developed characters who you learn to love & wish were part of your own life, to the descriptive scenes that leave a lasting memory in your mind, each chapter is well-crafted. Not to mention the plot twists & steamy scenes that are the icing on the cake!!!
Ward's debut novel is well-developed, kept me wanting more & had characters to cheer for & fall in love with. I was especially fond of how the author incorporated characters with disabilities into her book in a true, respectful & intelligent way. The realistic way that Ward depicted how people with disabilities are treated (both good & bad) can teach us all a few lessons of our own.
I also enjoyed how the author included points of view from both Emma & Landon & the life lessons that went along with each chapter - many poignant & some laugh out loud funny!
I can't wait to read more from this author & you certainly won't hear me complain about more Emma & Landon!! A job very well done!
Ward's debut novel is well-developed, kept me wanting more & had characters to cheer for & fall in love with. I was especially fond of how the author incorporated characters with disabilities into her book in a true, respectful & intelligent way. The realistic way that Ward depicted how people with disabilities are treated (both good & bad) can teach us all a few lessons of our own.
I also enjoyed how the author included points of view from both Emma & Landon & the life lessons that went along with each chapter - many poignant & some laugh out loud funny!
I can't wait to read more from this author & you certainly won't hear me complain about more Emma & Landon!! A job very well done!
July 29, 2014
I loved, loved, loved this book. From the preview I expected Landon to be a spoiled, cocky, playboy. He was, but he was also empathetic, warm, smart, loyal and willing to learn from life. His home life was pretty pathetic - his parents uncaring and uninterested in him. I was so impressed with how he grew. Emma was so mature and vulnerable. I love how Landon encouraged her to let loose a little and have some fun. Evie was so sweet - I enjoyed Emma and the Mother supporting her relationship with her boyfriend. Amazing book, It was one of those where you have trouble putting it down!!
October 22, 2014
I loved Emma and Landon's story.
August 1, 2014
Life Lesson:
Sometimes it's the wait...
the not yets of life that are the very best lessons
of all to learn.
Not Yet was definitely a fabulous story and one of my favorite types student/teacher relationship. I know there something about the forbidden love that makes me all in for this type of story. This story definitely isn't the normal student/teacher relationship. In fact its opposite of everyone I have ever read. But I will not reveal that little secret you will have to get this book to figure that out. I would give this book a 4 star. This book is told in dual POV's of Landon and Emma. It has a great HEA. It's full of twists and turns and a plenty of angst. This is the first book I have read from Laura Ward but I look forward to more from this author.
Landon and Emma meet during the summer at the pool they both work at. Neither knowing eachother's past but Landon is deteremind to get to know Emma better but Emma wants nothing to do with him. She can tell he is a playboy and will not fall into his fake charm. She is fresh out of college and he is 3 years younger than her and getting ready to start college. She is working the summer at the pool and doesn't need the distractions, but Landon is a big one but she will not let him in.
I'd never met a woman who'd turned down my invitation to the lake. I'd found more action on that sandy bank than Magic Mike at 'over forty ladies night' in Broadripple. This was new, and very interesting territory. -Landon
Emma never trusts anyone she has been let down to much in her life and she will never let anyone in again. Landon and Emma get to know eachother over the summer and Emma finally gives into possibly having a hot steamy summer fling but nothing more can come of it. But when feelings start to show and the summer is ending will she ever see Landon again. He is going away to college and she is starting a new job.
"I want you to want me all the damn time. I've never been so on fire before, Emma. I want to taste you, feel you, and hold you. Jesus. It's all I can think about."- Landon
Well, hell, I now knew it with every ounce of me. I was completely falling in love with Mr. Cool. I should have never underestimated the ability of my heart to grow and change. In a matter of months, my jaded, doubting, angry organ had be revitalized. All because of a boy of all things. A backwards baseball cap wearing, sexy truck driving, deliriously delicious boy.- Emma
Landon has a secret one is he is afraid to tell Emma, but when they secret is revealed both of there lives will be shattered. Emma trusted someone to be let down again and she will never forgive him. Landon's life will never be the same but can there love for one another help them through it?
Or is there just nothing they can do about it?
Not Yet anyway!
He was right. I was young and I wasn't really living my life. But he let me down just like every other guy I ever knew. I was sure I would regret not letting anyone in someday, but I just wasn't sure who I could trust or how to turn things around anymore.- Emma
You have to pick up this book! Go get it now!
Thanks for a great story and I am a huge fan now!
Sometimes it's the wait...
the not yets of life that are the very best lessons
of all to learn.
Not Yet was definitely a fabulous story and one of my favorite types student/teacher relationship. I know there something about the forbidden love that makes me all in for this type of story. This story definitely isn't the normal student/teacher relationship. In fact its opposite of everyone I have ever read. But I will not reveal that little secret you will have to get this book to figure that out. I would give this book a 4 star. This book is told in dual POV's of Landon and Emma. It has a great HEA. It's full of twists and turns and a plenty of angst. This is the first book I have read from Laura Ward but I look forward to more from this author.
Landon and Emma meet during the summer at the pool they both work at. Neither knowing eachother's past but Landon is deteremind to get to know Emma better but Emma wants nothing to do with him. She can tell he is a playboy and will not fall into his fake charm. She is fresh out of college and he is 3 years younger than her and getting ready to start college. She is working the summer at the pool and doesn't need the distractions, but Landon is a big one but she will not let him in.
I'd never met a woman who'd turned down my invitation to the lake. I'd found more action on that sandy bank than Magic Mike at 'over forty ladies night' in Broadripple. This was new, and very interesting territory. -Landon
Emma never trusts anyone she has been let down to much in her life and she will never let anyone in again. Landon and Emma get to know eachother over the summer and Emma finally gives into possibly having a hot steamy summer fling but nothing more can come of it. But when feelings start to show and the summer is ending will she ever see Landon again. He is going away to college and she is starting a new job.
"I want you to want me all the damn time. I've never been so on fire before, Emma. I want to taste you, feel you, and hold you. Jesus. It's all I can think about."- Landon
Well, hell, I now knew it with every ounce of me. I was completely falling in love with Mr. Cool. I should have never underestimated the ability of my heart to grow and change. In a matter of months, my jaded, doubting, angry organ had be revitalized. All because of a boy of all things. A backwards baseball cap wearing, sexy truck driving, deliriously delicious boy.- Emma
Landon has a secret one is he is afraid to tell Emma, but when they secret is revealed both of there lives will be shattered. Emma trusted someone to be let down again and she will never forgive him. Landon's life will never be the same but can there love for one another help them through it?
Or is there just nothing they can do about it?
Not Yet anyway!
He was right. I was young and I wasn't really living my life. But he let me down just like every other guy I ever knew. I was sure I would regret not letting anyone in someday, but I just wasn't sure who I could trust or how to turn things around anymore.- Emma
You have to pick up this book! Go get it now!
Thanks for a great story and I am a huge fan now!
August 18, 2014
5 stars
This is a spoil-free review and trust me when I say, you should avoid spoilers if you're planning to read this. If you want to know this will end with HEA, the answer is . But that's it.
There is no way I can give this book a rating less than 5 stars. This book knows the way to my heart.
Everything relating to Evie, Trevor, Amy and Billy was spot on. The way Laura Ward described their conditions and how these characters were treated were just right in every way. In my opinion, there are just as stars as the lead characters. And for that alone, I have to give this book 5 stars.
However, Not Yet got 5 stars from me for more reasons than that. I didn't know anything about this when I started reading this except what I assumed from reading the blurb and boy, was I surprised! I thought this was just like a typical rich, popular jock and a struggling jaded girl falling in love. And trust me when I say that it was waaaay more than that! The last time I was surprised like this was when I read Slammed by Colleen Hoover! That twist really blindsided me! I didn't expect that the story was going that road until the story was about to turn that way. So, avoid spoilers if you're planning to read this.
Overall, Not Yet is about life, love, family, friendship and more. Certainly, readers will get to learn from the same lessons Emma & Landon had learned throughout the story. Definitely, one of my faves this year.
This is a spoil-free review and trust me when I say, you should avoid spoilers if you're planning to read this. If you want to know this will end with HEA, the answer is . But that's it.
There is no way I can give this book a rating less than 5 stars. This book knows the way to my heart.
Everything relating to Evie, Trevor, Amy and Billy was spot on. The way Laura Ward described their conditions and how these characters were treated were just right in every way. In my opinion, there are just as stars as the lead characters. And for that alone, I have to give this book 5 stars.
However, Not Yet got 5 stars from me for more reasons than that. I didn't know anything about this when I started reading this except what I assumed from reading the blurb and boy, was I surprised! I thought this was just like a typical rich, popular jock and a struggling jaded girl falling in love. And trust me when I say that it was waaaay more than that! The last time I was surprised like this was when I read Slammed by Colleen Hoover! That twist really blindsided me! I didn't expect that the story was going that road until the story was about to turn that way. So, avoid spoilers if you're planning to read this.
Overall, Not Yet is about life, love, family, friendship and more. Certainly, readers will get to learn from the same lessons Emma & Landon had learned throughout the story. Definitely, one of my faves this year.
August 20, 2014
4 beautiful stars.
Jenny: What a beautiful, heart-warming and sweet read this was Gitte. I adored this book! It carried such an important message, had a host of engaging and loveable characters…not to mention a twist that made me gasp!
“I won’t give up on you, and I won’t give up on us.”
When we were sent this book to review the author expressed such a love for her secondary characters that we wanted to meet them immediately. After meeting them it’s easy to see why Laura Ward loves them so much. They were inspiring and captivating and completely stole my heart with their innocence and honesty and with their hopes and aspirations they showed us that despite their disabilities they wanted to achieve the same things in life we all do.
“At the end of the day, people with disabilities are just people. Treat them with respect, just like you treat anyone else. Talk to them normally – just like anyone else. And, this is the hard part, hold them to the same expectations you hold everyone else…… if you can do that, you’ll learn something magical.”
And I did learn something magical! I also fell head over heels for our hero Landon. Oh sure, at first glance he came across as an over indulged, cocky good looking rich boy, but his cheekiness soon gave way to something much deeper. Boy, did this guy grow in character! My heart was in fear of bursting at times with the sensitivity and beauty of what lay beneath the facade.
“You’re all in my head. I can’t stop thinking about you.”
“Good. You’ve gotten to me, too.”
Emma had made a lot of sacrifices but never felt owed. Everything she did what out of love and loyalty to her family and she had built up some pretty big walls and had some strong ideas about men. Watching Landon break those walls was a sight to behold and both learnt life lessons along the way.
“I think he loves you, and I think you should love him back.”
If readers are looking for a heartfelt, sweet, witty, beautiful romantic story that’s also inspiring with a deep sense of hope and love then Not Yet is a definite recommended read. Even though I found the start a little hard to get into, I soon settled in and became immersed in story. How did you feel Gitte?
Gitte: I absolutely fell in love with this story. I will admit to struggling in the beginning, however once the momentum built and the Author hit her stride; when her heart started to make her words pound and reverberate into mine, I fell in love and felt every emotion, character struggle and every ounce of courage. Fear of what we don’t know nor understand can have a face. It’s a face we all need to get to know because it can be magical and beautiful and its innocence shines as bright as a star in the night sky.
‘Life Lesson: There are times in life when people cause you to think you have lost it all. That it will never get better. That you will never recover. These are the times when the only thing to do is to pick your head up, look those assholes right in the eye, and fucking finish strong.’
There’s some absolutely amazing and extremely important messages in Not Yet woven into an inspiring romance and it’s beautifully executed. Landon was a gorgeous young man who went through an amazing transformation. He showed what was truly behind a ‘society and family’ inspired façade. It was always in him but it was brought to the surface by the quiet and unassuming Emma. Such a sweet and driven girl who wanted the world to see the beauty in life, love and humanity.
‘He was special, and he was everything I never knew I needed in my life.’
There are so many ‘not yet’s’ in life, some more poignant than others and Emma’s and Landon’s ‘Not Yet’ was such a beauty; so meaningful, so incredibly sweet and innocent and so awe inspiring.
“Remember…it’s just not yet for us.”
Life lessons ~ Laura Ward truly shows the importance of standing up for what you believe in no matter how strongly the resulting spotlight shines on you. Definitely a highly recommended read from me too!
**Reviewed off an ARC copy provided by the author**
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August 22, 2014
Reviewed on Behalf of Give Me Books
I’m not even sure where to start with this review. I LOVED this book!! If you are looking for a sweet, sexy, fun romance, pick up this book NOW!! It was amazing! Talk about a twist on the forbidden student/teacher relationship.
In Not Yet we meet Emma and Landon. Emma is a member of the Bitter & Boring club for a number of reasons. Starting as the head of the pool at a ritzy country club, Landon is one of her lifeguards. He is hot, popular, and never had girls tell him no. So he decides that he will wear her down. Their friendship blooms into a summer romance that neither wants to end when school starts again. However, life keeps getting in the way. Emma lives with her mother and sister, Evie who has down’s syndrome. She is drawn to helping people with special needs. She helps Landon see that all people deserve respect. Watching Landon grow and mature throughout this book is fantastic!
I absolutely loved how this book was written. Each chapter ended with a Life Lesson that Emma learned. “Life Lesson: The moment you realize you might have changed the way a person looks at someone they don’t understand is extraordinary. Never stop trying to do this.” And my favorite one: “The best gift of all is unconditional love. Oh, and orgasms. Definitely love with orgasms.” We also got to see a few chapters from Landon’s perspective with his own lessons learned.
I don’t know if it was because I could relate to this book on a personal level or if it was just because it was so well written; maybe a little a both. I am a teacher of students with special needs so that aspect of the book touched my heart. I felt every emotion possible while reading this: happiness, sadness, humor, love, grief, anguish, and more. I laughed, I cried, I smiled until my face hurt. All that’s left to say is read this book!! (5 stars)
I’m not even sure where to start with this review. I LOVED this book!! If you are looking for a sweet, sexy, fun romance, pick up this book NOW!! It was amazing! Talk about a twist on the forbidden student/teacher relationship.
In Not Yet we meet Emma and Landon. Emma is a member of the Bitter & Boring club for a number of reasons. Starting as the head of the pool at a ritzy country club, Landon is one of her lifeguards. He is hot, popular, and never had girls tell him no. So he decides that he will wear her down. Their friendship blooms into a summer romance that neither wants to end when school starts again. However, life keeps getting in the way. Emma lives with her mother and sister, Evie who has down’s syndrome. She is drawn to helping people with special needs. She helps Landon see that all people deserve respect. Watching Landon grow and mature throughout this book is fantastic!
I absolutely loved how this book was written. Each chapter ended with a Life Lesson that Emma learned. “Life Lesson: The moment you realize you might have changed the way a person looks at someone they don’t understand is extraordinary. Never stop trying to do this.” And my favorite one: “The best gift of all is unconditional love. Oh, and orgasms. Definitely love with orgasms.” We also got to see a few chapters from Landon’s perspective with his own lessons learned.
I don’t know if it was because I could relate to this book on a personal level or if it was just because it was so well written; maybe a little a both. I am a teacher of students with special needs so that aspect of the book touched my heart. I felt every emotion possible while reading this: happiness, sadness, humor, love, grief, anguish, and more. I laughed, I cried, I smiled until my face hurt. All that’s left to say is read this book!! (5 stars)
dnf
May 17, 2015DNF @ 27%
My basic book rule is 'read until the end', but it happens so rarely that I give upon them if and only if I'm not connected with the characters and if the story fails to evoke any kind of emotions in me.
That's what happened with this book, story felt like rushed! It was insta/lust/love which I never understood why? since the MC Emma guards her heart and that she was initially introduced as cold/bitter/uptight(she has her reasons for that). with all the bitchy persona I din't get how did she so easily warm up to Landon?, I had to immediately stop reading when their make out session felt boring to me.
My basic book rule is 'read until the end', but it happens so rarely that I give upon them if and only if I'm not connected with the characters and if the story fails to evoke any kind of emotions in me.
That's what happened with this book, story felt like rushed! It was insta/lust/love which I never understood why? since the MC Emma guards her heart and that she was initially introduced as cold/bitter/uptight(she has her reasons for that). with all the bitchy persona I din't get how did she so easily warm up to Landon?, I had to immediately stop reading when their make out session felt boring to me.
August 20, 2014
Love love love this book! On one page I was just furious and the next page had be balling like a baby. What a great first novel for Ms. Ward. The characters were lovable (except for a few) and the little "Life lessons" after each chapter were fun. I only wish Ford got what he truly deserved in the end. I highly recommend this book to anyone who is looking for a little tenderness in their life. Great job, Ms. Ward!!
graveyard-of-abandoned-books
August 28, 2014 Lesson #1: Nothing goes the way you plan.
No shit. Really?
Lesson #2: You can’t trust men. Especially not the pretty ones.
Holy mother of greatness, wow. Really?
Lesson #3: Turns out, appearances are almost always deceiving.
No fucking way! Really?
Thanks for that. While your at it, tell me how Life's not fair, No Pain, No Gain, Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, or how Old habits die hard. Old habits such as overusing motherfucking cliches.
How I was able to read even 4 freaking chapters is beyond me. I want to say its not you, its me, but then I'd be lying. This is definitely YOU, not me.
No shit. Really?
Lesson #2: You can’t trust men. Especially not the pretty ones.
Holy mother of greatness, wow. Really?
Lesson #3: Turns out, appearances are almost always deceiving.
No fucking way! Really?
Thanks for that. While your at it, tell me how Life's not fair, No Pain, No Gain, Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, or how Old habits die hard. Old habits such as overusing motherfucking cliches.
How I was able to read even 4 freaking chapters is beyond me. I want to say its not you, its me, but then I'd be lying. This is definitely YOU, not me.
August 17, 2014
Amazing!!
Amazing!!
Amazing love story. I had this book read in a few hours. Highly recommend if you are looking for a great love story.
Amazing!!
Amazing love story. I had this book read in a few hours. Highly recommend if you are looking for a great love story.
Want to read
July 30, 2014 Looking forward to this one!!
This sounds really good!! The heroine has always put her big sister, who was born with Down syndrome, first and taken care of her. To do the right thing for the sister she loves, her dreams will just have to wait. Then she meets Landon — a rich, flirtatious jock, who never has to wait for anything. Meeting her marks the first time in his life that he’s had to fight for something… (and I *think* he has a secret that he's keeping from her??)
I'm definitely looking forward to trying this!
This sounds really good!! The heroine has always put her big sister, who was born with Down syndrome, first and taken care of her. To do the right thing for the sister she loves, her dreams will just have to wait. Then she meets Landon — a rich, flirtatious jock, who never has to wait for anything. Meeting her marks the first time in his life that he’s had to fight for something… (and I *think* he has a secret that he's keeping from her??)
I'm definitely looking forward to trying this!
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