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Men of Ocean Beach #2
Hope Is Lost
Keanu Lee, the funny man, finds himself on the sticky end of a night out with his best friend Levi. Keanu's life is about to take another unexpected, sharp turn. New friends will be found under the most unique circumstances.
Hope Walker is a lost soul, and Ajax, the street performer, is her unspoken protector. Together, they survive the streets of Ocean Beach.
Life has a way of righting wrongs when you least expect it.
Come join this sexy crew as they show you that, even though life may take from you, it can also give back when you least anticipate it.
The Ocean Beach series continues with the brotherhood, passion, and laughter you have grown to love, and through the eyes of these survivors, you will realize love can truly heal.
The past will never be forgotten, but there is hope if you just allow yourself to have a little faith.
Hope Walker is a lost soul, and Ajax, the street performer, is her unspoken protector. Together, they survive the streets of Ocean Beach.
Life has a way of righting wrongs when you least expect it.
Come join this sexy crew as they show you that, even though life may take from you, it can also give back when you least anticipate it.
The Ocean Beach series continues with the brotherhood, passion, and laughter you have grown to love, and through the eyes of these survivors, you will realize love can truly heal.
The past will never be forgotten, but there is hope if you just allow yourself to have a little faith.
271 pages, Paperback
Published February 20, 2015
53 people are currently reading
211 people want to read
About the author
Emma James
30 books1,497 followersEmma James writes page-turning stories with strong female leads and men who will keep you up at night.
She writes in multi-genre and loves to keep the reader guessing with all the twists and turns found on her pages.
Her homemade curries are as spicy as the love that will always rise from the ashes in her stories.
The devil sitting on her right shoulder whispers dark romance ideas in her ear and the angel on her left shoulder will coax out all the feels, tears and laughter to sprinkle over the pages.
You can find Emma:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/emmajamesauthor
BOOKBUB: https://bit.ly/2J4THac
Twitter : @emmajamesbooks
Newsletter Sign Up : http://bit.ly/1OgHLh6
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emmajamesau...
Amazon Author Page: https://amzn.to/2rB7NIf
Emma James' Sisterhood Closed Group : http://bit.ly/1J5groi
Pinterest : https://www.pinterest.com/authoremmaj...
She writes in multi-genre and loves to keep the reader guessing with all the twists and turns found on her pages.
Her homemade curries are as spicy as the love that will always rise from the ashes in her stories.
The devil sitting on her right shoulder whispers dark romance ideas in her ear and the angel on her left shoulder will coax out all the feels, tears and laughter to sprinkle over the pages.
You can find Emma:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/emmajamesauthor
BOOKBUB: https://bit.ly/2J4THac
Twitter : @emmajamesbooks
Newsletter Sign Up : http://bit.ly/1OgHLh6
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emmajamesau...
Amazon Author Page: https://amzn.to/2rB7NIf
Emma James' Sisterhood Closed Group : http://bit.ly/1J5groi
Pinterest : https://www.pinterest.com/authoremmaj...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 73 reviews
January 17, 2019
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FAN MADE TEASERS & COLLAGES
I had a great time writing Hope Is Lost . Keanu is my funny man and I love him to bits. He brings the funny among the serious. For those who have already met Keanu, you know what I mean.
Hope Walker is a little lost, but she never complains. She has a quiet dignity about herself. She has a light that shines. This is why I knew she would be the perfect lady for Keanu.
I think of the crew of Ocean Beach as my extended family. To have a friend like Keanu would be amazing. I honestly can't pick a favorite as they are all so different and bring their own voice to their name.
All the characters are back plus some new ones to throw into the mix. I have my own individual style and it worked for A Little Faith and I couldn't think of writing this series any other way.
I worked hard to stay true to their characters and of course I have to throw a few twists into the story. I hope you all leave those spoilers out in your reviews like you did for A Little Faith, that would be brilliant.
To everybody who supported A Little Faith and loved my brotherhood of sexy men, I hope you enjoy Hope Is Lost just as much.
xxx
Emma James
ARCs are going out 16th February to those that signed up to get a blurb inside the front cover of Hope Is Lost and there is also a blog tour sign up.
August 27, 2019
Hope and Keanu
Wow, I'm amazed by this author and her ability to write a multi-charactered story so well. It is poignant funny, suspenseful, and full of twists. It's about second and third chances, resilience, unconditional love and friendship, loss and hope!
Wow, I'm amazed by this author and her ability to write a multi-charactered story so well. It is poignant funny, suspenseful, and full of twists. It's about second and third chances, resilience, unconditional love and friendship, loss and hope!
February 5, 2020
Squee
I’m loving these books, I have read them before but I had to read read them. If you haven’t you’re missing out
I’m loving these books, I have read them before but I had to read read them. If you haven’t you’re missing out
Want to read
January 17, 2019🎁 FREE on Amazon today (1/17/2019)! 🎁
March 10, 2015
In A Little Faith, I knew James was promising something special with this series. In Hope is Lost, she made good on that promise. She's hit her stride and the story, with it's multiple alternating POVs, flows seamlessly.
Hope is Lost focuses primarily on Keanu. After suffering yet another close call with death, he finds himself in a position to offer three individuals their own second chance at life -- or at least a better one.
Things also heated up on the romantic front for Keanu and Hope, Slade and Phoenix, and Faith and Jase (Text). I'm anxious to see things progress with all these couples. They all deserve some happiness. I'm also eager to see how things will work out for Harley, now that his brother has laid claim to Faith, and for Levi.
With the Ocean Beach series, James not only gives up an incredible story of a brotherhood of survivors. She also conveys the power of friendship, love and its ability to heal all wounds, and she weaves together this diverse cast of characters that make you think -- prick your social conscience. None of us know the pain hidden behind the humor in this person with a missing limb. None of us know the reasons why that kid would choose to mug someone. None of us know the talent behind that beautiful, homeless girl. But James is showing us the possibilities. And giving us a reason to hope.
*4.5 Stars*
*I received a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.*
Hope is Lost focuses primarily on Keanu. After suffering yet another close call with death, he finds himself in a position to offer three individuals their own second chance at life -- or at least a better one.
Things also heated up on the romantic front for Keanu and Hope, Slade and Phoenix, and Faith and Jase (Text). I'm anxious to see things progress with all these couples. They all deserve some happiness. I'm also eager to see how things will work out for Harley, now that his brother has laid claim to Faith, and for Levi.
With the Ocean Beach series, James not only gives up an incredible story of a brotherhood of survivors. She also conveys the power of friendship, love and its ability to heal all wounds, and she weaves together this diverse cast of characters that make you think -- prick your social conscience. None of us know the pain hidden behind the humor in this person with a missing limb. None of us know the reasons why that kid would choose to mug someone. None of us know the talent behind that beautiful, homeless girl. But James is showing us the possibilities. And giving us a reason to hope.
*4.5 Stars*
*I received a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.*
March 4, 2015
Loved this book!
Love the whole concept of the series.
Multiple povs which captured my attention.
I love the Men of Ocean Beach!!!
Can't wait for more.
Full review to come.
Love the whole concept of the series.
Multiple povs which captured my attention.
I love the Men of Ocean Beach!!!
Can't wait for more.
Full review to come.
November 5, 2017
Emma james
Wow girl you really know how to give a girl the feels. I had so many emotions going through me at one point i thought menopause had finely kicked in . Emma you are truely a phenomenal author , your talent for setting a story and keeping it so that the reader is fully engrossed in the lives of these fictional character's only highlights the talent that you have of being one of the best story tellers ive ever read . You make the reader want to know more about each and every character and bring to life these characters as if they are truly real life people . I can not wait to read the next book and ill definitely be buying these in paperback to add to my collection. Thank you. I loved this book so much .
Wow girl you really know how to give a girl the feels. I had so many emotions going through me at one point i thought menopause had finely kicked in . Emma you are truely a phenomenal author , your talent for setting a story and keeping it so that the reader is fully engrossed in the lives of these fictional character's only highlights the talent that you have of being one of the best story tellers ive ever read . You make the reader want to know more about each and every character and bring to life these characters as if they are truly real life people . I can not wait to read the next book and ill definitely be buying these in paperback to add to my collection. Thank you. I loved this book so much .
September 21, 2019
It doesn't stop getting better.
Just when you think nothing else is gonna happen.. bamm there it is. I can't stop reading, well on to the next one I go. Emma james you are truly fabulous.
Just when you think nothing else is gonna happen.. bamm there it is. I can't stop reading, well on to the next one I go. Emma james you are truly fabulous.
March 14, 2015
Read in 2015
Thank you to author Emma James for allowing me to read this in exchange for an honest review!
Find this review and more on my blog The Rest Is Still Unwritten!
Hope Is Lost is the second book in Emma Jame’s New Adult series, Ocean Beach and is the next chapter is the lives of the characters who call Ocean Beach home. Join this close knit band of brothers as they move on from the loss of losing someone close, fall in love and learn to truly live again!
Hope Is Lost continues to follow the lives of Faith and her late brother Chance’s best friends, a group of lads living, working and surviving together. Harley, Text, Keanu, Levi and Retro are as thick as thieves and together with a number of other memorable characters including, Slade and Phoenix make the seaside town of Ocean Beach home. Faith’s arrival in Ocean Beach after the death of her brother years prior has begun to have an outward effect on the men who loved Chance and this series sees them begin to make new discoveries and changes to their lives.
Ocean Beach isn’t your typical romance series. While two of the Ocean Beach men have found love in consecutive novels; Retro and now Keanu, these novels don’t follow the typical format and feature one couple at a time, but rather follow all of the characters within the series. The majority of characters have a voice in each novel at some point in time, and whilst this may seem daunting at first; keeping track of the multiple characters and their individual lives and desires, after a while it becomes second nature to jump from one POV to the next, dependent on how central each character is to the story at any given point in time.
Personally I quite like all the characters in the series and the way they interact and relate to each other. They are a very close bunch, especially the boys, and care for each other a great deal. Though Chance died years before, each still holds a fair deal amount of pain from losing their "brother" and some of those who were on the island when he died are also physically affected by the bomb and fire that tore apart the night club. All those affected are quite resilient however, Keanu and Levi in particular and have managed to bounce back and continue on with their lives quite well all things considering.
Each installment in this series so far has brought a lot of light and love to these characters lives. Two of them have already found love and with the hints of other romances already in the air, I’m quite excited to see what Emma James plans for Levi, as well as Slade and Phoenix. I have to admit, Slade holds a special place in my heart and I'd be lying if I didn't admit the scenes in Hope Is Lost with him and the kitten just melted my heart!
As this chapter of the series concludes, I for one can’t wait to read the next book. Things are shaping up fantastically and I’m looking forward to seeing what Emma James has in store next. As Hope Is Lost concludes, there’s no doubt on my mind though that the question that is sure to be on every fan’s mind, is just who is Hudson Raine?? I for one can’t wait to find out!
Thank you to author Emma James for allowing me to read this in exchange for an honest review!
Find this review and more on my blog The Rest Is Still Unwritten!
Hope Is Lost is the second book in Emma Jame’s New Adult series, Ocean Beach and is the next chapter is the lives of the characters who call Ocean Beach home. Join this close knit band of brothers as they move on from the loss of losing someone close, fall in love and learn to truly live again!
Hope Is Lost continues to follow the lives of Faith and her late brother Chance’s best friends, a group of lads living, working and surviving together. Harley, Text, Keanu, Levi and Retro are as thick as thieves and together with a number of other memorable characters including, Slade and Phoenix make the seaside town of Ocean Beach home. Faith’s arrival in Ocean Beach after the death of her brother years prior has begun to have an outward effect on the men who loved Chance and this series sees them begin to make new discoveries and changes to their lives.
Ocean Beach isn’t your typical romance series. While two of the Ocean Beach men have found love in consecutive novels; Retro and now Keanu, these novels don’t follow the typical format and feature one couple at a time, but rather follow all of the characters within the series. The majority of characters have a voice in each novel at some point in time, and whilst this may seem daunting at first; keeping track of the multiple characters and their individual lives and desires, after a while it becomes second nature to jump from one POV to the next, dependent on how central each character is to the story at any given point in time.
Personally I quite like all the characters in the series and the way they interact and relate to each other. They are a very close bunch, especially the boys, and care for each other a great deal. Though Chance died years before, each still holds a fair deal amount of pain from losing their "brother" and some of those who were on the island when he died are also physically affected by the bomb and fire that tore apart the night club. All those affected are quite resilient however, Keanu and Levi in particular and have managed to bounce back and continue on with their lives quite well all things considering.
Each installment in this series so far has brought a lot of light and love to these characters lives. Two of them have already found love and with the hints of other romances already in the air, I’m quite excited to see what Emma James plans for Levi, as well as Slade and Phoenix. I have to admit, Slade holds a special place in my heart and I'd be lying if I didn't admit the scenes in Hope Is Lost with him and the kitten just melted my heart!
As this chapter of the series concludes, I for one can’t wait to read the next book. Things are shaping up fantastically and I’m looking forward to seeing what Emma James has in store next. As Hope Is Lost concludes, there’s no doubt on my mind though that the question that is sure to be on every fan’s mind, is just who is Hudson Raine?? I for one can’t wait to find out!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 17, 2015
Hope is Lost is certainly another well delivered story in this series .. It hit my kindle and I had it devoured within the day ..
In Hope is Lost we see the complexities of the burdens of guilt . Scars buried deep within the characters not only visible but hidden within - the cementing of friendships that not only grow with each story but she'd more light and which binds them together .
Emma James has a way with words, she brings out the depth and definition with each character by giving us each characters point of view .. For some they might find this conflicting for me it's icing on that cupcake !
I as a reader get insight into every character - there thoughts- woes - insecurities and feelings ..
How they tick even and think and react to every situation presented .. This gives the story meaning and depth within the pages ..
For every moment shared within this clan of friends , it brings sunshine and warmth into the now present situation. The dark haze will always linger and be present but the friendships and bonding brings unity, love , and a solid foundation for a happier brighter future ..
But like everything it takes time .
Each and every character brings light into the darkness - they all share such heavy hearts and burdens .. It's heartwarming yet heartbreaking .. The love and affection this group of friends share has me lost for words .. It's so surreal of how real the situation could certainly be .
Hope Is Lost is another exceptional journey into this series and with such a strong storyline and well delivered plot be prepared to be swept along with these remarkable characters and story that Emma has so vividly penned
In Hope is Lost we see the complexities of the burdens of guilt . Scars buried deep within the characters not only visible but hidden within - the cementing of friendships that not only grow with each story but she'd more light and which binds them together .
Emma James has a way with words, she brings out the depth and definition with each character by giving us each characters point of view .. For some they might find this conflicting for me it's icing on that cupcake !
I as a reader get insight into every character - there thoughts- woes - insecurities and feelings ..
How they tick even and think and react to every situation presented .. This gives the story meaning and depth within the pages ..
For every moment shared within this clan of friends , it brings sunshine and warmth into the now present situation. The dark haze will always linger and be present but the friendships and bonding brings unity, love , and a solid foundation for a happier brighter future ..
But like everything it takes time .
Each and every character brings light into the darkness - they all share such heavy hearts and burdens .. It's heartwarming yet heartbreaking .. The love and affection this group of friends share has me lost for words .. It's so surreal of how real the situation could certainly be .
Hope Is Lost is another exceptional journey into this series and with such a strong storyline and well delivered plot be prepared to be swept along with these remarkable characters and story that Emma has so vividly penned
February 18, 2015
I am giving this review on behalf of Kats Book Promotions/ Katsindiebookblog. What really caught my attention first with this book is that there are a handful of characters. Normally that leads to a lot of clutter and confusion but Emma definitely knows what she's doing. Each character plays their role perfectly, and you get to see how each of them think, their insight of each situation.
The brotherhood, or as I put it; a big family, are still battling their scars from their past. Some taking it harder than others. They were still given a chance at life so they will continue to do just that.
New characters are brought into play just to mix things up a little. There are many twist and turns as well as a cliffhanger. What can i say, I'm a sucker for a good cliffhanger. Some say love will fix all problems, how true can that be? Can true love save someone's soul?
This is not your typical fairy tale, boy meets girl and they live happily ever after. There is more involvement into it. Emma does real great job into working each character up. No detail was left out or over thought. I highly look forward to more books in the future.
The brotherhood, or as I put it; a big family, are still battling their scars from their past. Some taking it harder than others. They were still given a chance at life so they will continue to do just that.
New characters are brought into play just to mix things up a little. There are many twist and turns as well as a cliffhanger. What can i say, I'm a sucker for a good cliffhanger. Some say love will fix all problems, how true can that be? Can true love save someone's soul?
This is not your typical fairy tale, boy meets girl and they live happily ever after. There is more involvement into it. Emma does real great job into working each character up. No detail was left out or over thought. I highly look forward to more books in the future.
March 21, 2015
Once again Emma James has managed to create a story that touches the heart. The boys are back in another book about brotherhood and love. This story evolves around Keanu but there is no shortage of other voices in this book. I was happy about the introductions of Hope, Slade, Phoenix, Holland, & Ajax. Everyone in this book gives their heart and emotions leap of the pages everywhere. Still facing the demons of their past the boys move to push forward in their lives even bringing women into their tight bonds. I love the relationships that I see blossoming and it gives me hope about my own sad love life. Lol.
It great to watch the boys grow and heal from what has happened to them in the past.
As always I looked for the chance Text would take his first words but I can live with his silence. Now I'm also falling in love with the big guy Slade as well!
I love this series even with it ending in a cliffhanger. It's just apart of the series. I cant wait for the next book and it's why I'm give this book 5 Big Star!!! Amazing job Emma!!!!
~Nickea
It great to watch the boys grow and heal from what has happened to them in the past.
As always I looked for the chance Text would take his first words but I can live with his silence. Now I'm also falling in love with the big guy Slade as well!
I love this series even with it ending in a cliffhanger. It's just apart of the series. I cant wait for the next book and it's why I'm give this book 5 Big Star!!! Amazing job Emma!!!!
~Nickea
December 29, 2015
Faith restored in humanity. This book will give you hope. I had such an enlightening journey while reading. And the friendship bond is none like others! They really have each others back and it made embrace the pay-it forward thinking. I just love how Emma James write! I love this book so much!
January 15, 2017
this series just gets better and better I love it
April 22, 2019
In Keanu's case hope isn't just an emotion it's the beautiful girl who saved his life. Yeah it's a good story and that's about the only deets I will give on that. Keanu covers his emotions being the jokester of the group. These guys have been through hell and are still reeling from the loss, and let me just say Chance isn't the only loss. There's no way to talk about one without talking about them all and the author does just that. As the team helps Keanu through his recovery and helps the additions to their group we find their hearts are big and loving while their family continues to grow. These guys may still be recovering emotionally but they don't stop paying it forward. It's a great read and I still have one additional book in the series to go. While each book is a standalone because all of the characters have things going on in each book it is a continuation but doesn't end on a cliff hanger so to speak. I do love the style of the author and this series so I will be reading the last book since there are only 3 books in the series. . . so far. It's an emotional road to recovery for all of them and I loved tagging along.
March 2, 2015
This review was originally posted to Jen in Bookland
4.5 stars
I have been waiting what feels like forever for Hope is Lost to come out and it is finally here! Please note Hope is Lost is the second book in a series. These are not stand alone books. You need to read A Little Faith before you start this book or you will be lost. Besides A Little Faith was a great read so why would you want to skip that? Alright, now that that is out of the way on to my review.
Hope is Lost was such a great read. I loved it from beginning to end. The author does a really great job of writing a story with so many main characters, so many chapters from different people, but making it work. I love how the book is about everyone with one of the characters maybe a little more of a main focus, but not solely about them by any means. It is really about everyone. Sure Keanu is more of a focus in this book, his story is told more than others, but you still get a bit of everyone in there. It works really well and I really enjoy that aspect of the story. Most authors have one book about one character with little in the way of the background characters, but this one mixes it up and it really works. It is truly the story of the guys who are like brothers, Faith, and the other important people in their lives. I loved it.
The first book ended with Emma seeing Levi and freaking out a bit, but you don't know why. This book picks up right there where that left off. You get to know Levi and Slade more, though Levi is still a bit elusive for me. Like I know more about him and what happened to him on the island, but I still don't have a good read on him. Tricky tricky Levi. What about the other characters? Well let's catch up on them since I don't want to reveal to much shall we?
Harley - He is not in this book as much as the first one and I found I liked him more than I originally did. He is not as overprotective big brother, but we will see some changes come in the future for him. By the end he is finally realizing and accepting what's going on with some of the other characters and he will have to learn to adapt.
Retro and Birdie - they are in here and doing well. They are so cute together and it is nice to see them happy as a couple. And Retro is turning into the love guru now that he is in love which was fun.
Slade - You get to know him a lot more in this story. He was kind of just the bartender in the fist book and I didn't really know much about him other than that, but you see a lot of him in here. I loved him by the end. He is so great. The more I got to know of him the more I liked him. This big strong teddy bear of a guy. So sweet and cute and tough and patient and just amazing. I can't wait to see how he gets his happily ever after!
Text/Jase - Swoon. He is still my favorite. I love him so much. I would read book after book of just him. Not that I don't love the other guys, but there is just something about him that draws me to him. He probably has the most issues of any of the guys seeing as how he won't/can't even talk after and about what happened. I cannot wait to hear his story and watch him heal and move on as he is just amazing. He is here and trying to deal with his feelings and things changing and he just has a lot to work through, but I am sure he will get there. I cannot wait to see him happy.
Keanu - As I said above this book has a greater focus on Keanu. He has some rough times that really challenge him and everyone else, but he is still that positive funny guy. I know he hides behind his humor, but he really has a good heart in there. His whole everything happens for a reason, pay it forward, give as much as you get thing is really amazing in this book. The things he does for some of the new people you meet just blows my mind. Things that most people would never even consider doing. He is truly an amazing person. He is so caring and giving and just unbelievable. Even the other guys are not as accepting of some of the generous things he does, some of the decisions he makes, at least not at first. I cannot say enough good things about him. His version of pay it forward is so far beyond what most people would do. With everything that happens he still has such a great attitude which is really inspiring. He is a great character.
Faith - She is still in this story, but not as big of a part as the first book. She is still there for the guys and trying to figure everything out and help them deal with Chance not being there anymore.
Oh and we have the new additions, though they were in the first book briefly, of Hope and Ajax. Hope is like Keanu in a lot of ways. Even though she has had a rough life she is still incredibly sweet and will do whatever to help someone in need. She would give everything she has to someone else if they needed it even though she doesn't have much herself. She is so incredibly kind and it breaks your heart a bit to learn about her life. At least she has Ajax to help keep an eye out.
Overall this was a great read. You get to know more about all of the characters, see how they are doing and how they are really dealing with everything that happens. You get to see all the characters really start to move on and find their happiness. How positive some of the characters are in the face of such adversity is amazing. All of the characters in the book are so great and kind and just willing to do whatever for someone they don't even know. Really a great read and now for the wait until the next book comes out! I cannot wait!
4.5 stars
I have been waiting what feels like forever for Hope is Lost to come out and it is finally here! Please note Hope is Lost is the second book in a series. These are not stand alone books. You need to read A Little Faith before you start this book or you will be lost. Besides A Little Faith was a great read so why would you want to skip that? Alright, now that that is out of the way on to my review.
Hope is Lost was such a great read. I loved it from beginning to end. The author does a really great job of writing a story with so many main characters, so many chapters from different people, but making it work. I love how the book is about everyone with one of the characters maybe a little more of a main focus, but not solely about them by any means. It is really about everyone. Sure Keanu is more of a focus in this book, his story is told more than others, but you still get a bit of everyone in there. It works really well and I really enjoy that aspect of the story. Most authors have one book about one character with little in the way of the background characters, but this one mixes it up and it really works. It is truly the story of the guys who are like brothers, Faith, and the other important people in their lives. I loved it.
The first book ended with Emma seeing Levi and freaking out a bit, but you don't know why. This book picks up right there where that left off. You get to know Levi and Slade more, though Levi is still a bit elusive for me. Like I know more about him and what happened to him on the island, but I still don't have a good read on him. Tricky tricky Levi. What about the other characters? Well let's catch up on them since I don't want to reveal to much shall we?
Harley - He is not in this book as much as the first one and I found I liked him more than I originally did. He is not as overprotective big brother, but we will see some changes come in the future for him. By the end he is finally realizing and accepting what's going on with some of the other characters and he will have to learn to adapt.
Retro and Birdie - they are in here and doing well. They are so cute together and it is nice to see them happy as a couple. And Retro is turning into the love guru now that he is in love which was fun.
Slade - You get to know him a lot more in this story. He was kind of just the bartender in the fist book and I didn't really know much about him other than that, but you see a lot of him in here. I loved him by the end. He is so great. The more I got to know of him the more I liked him. This big strong teddy bear of a guy. So sweet and cute and tough and patient and just amazing. I can't wait to see how he gets his happily ever after!
Text/Jase - Swoon. He is still my favorite. I love him so much. I would read book after book of just him. Not that I don't love the other guys, but there is just something about him that draws me to him. He probably has the most issues of any of the guys seeing as how he won't/can't even talk after and about what happened. I cannot wait to hear his story and watch him heal and move on as he is just amazing. He is here and trying to deal with his feelings and things changing and he just has a lot to work through, but I am sure he will get there. I cannot wait to see him happy.
Keanu - As I said above this book has a greater focus on Keanu. He has some rough times that really challenge him and everyone else, but he is still that positive funny guy. I know he hides behind his humor, but he really has a good heart in there. His whole everything happens for a reason, pay it forward, give as much as you get thing is really amazing in this book. The things he does for some of the new people you meet just blows my mind. Things that most people would never even consider doing. He is truly an amazing person. He is so caring and giving and just unbelievable. Even the other guys are not as accepting of some of the generous things he does, some of the decisions he makes, at least not at first. I cannot say enough good things about him. His version of pay it forward is so far beyond what most people would do. With everything that happens he still has such a great attitude which is really inspiring. He is a great character.
Faith - She is still in this story, but not as big of a part as the first book. She is still there for the guys and trying to figure everything out and help them deal with Chance not being there anymore.
Oh and we have the new additions, though they were in the first book briefly, of Hope and Ajax. Hope is like Keanu in a lot of ways. Even though she has had a rough life she is still incredibly sweet and will do whatever to help someone in need. She would give everything she has to someone else if they needed it even though she doesn't have much herself. She is so incredibly kind and it breaks your heart a bit to learn about her life. At least she has Ajax to help keep an eye out.
Overall this was a great read. You get to know more about all of the characters, see how they are doing and how they are really dealing with everything that happens. You get to see all the characters really start to move on and find their happiness. How positive some of the characters are in the face of such adversity is amazing. All of the characters in the book are so great and kind and just willing to do whatever for someone they don't even know. Really a great read and now for the wait until the next book comes out! I cannot wait!
April 26, 2018
Enjoyable
Picked up right from the first one .. The boys and Faith are still dealing with things and trying to figure out life. I absolutely love these characters together and seperate. This has been a great story line. Well written and enjoyable. Pulls at the heart strings. Left me once again at a cliff hanging but definitely has me wanting to read the next one. Great series so far.
Picked up right from the first one .. The boys and Faith are still dealing with things and trying to figure out life. I absolutely love these characters together and seperate. This has been a great story line. Well written and enjoyable. Pulls at the heart strings. Left me once again at a cliff hanging but definitely has me wanting to read the next one. Great series so far.
September 19, 2018
I absolutely love this series! The characters are so well-written that you can't help but fall in love with each of them. This book brings some romance into the lives of a few characters. There's one really sensual sex scene that I just loved. You will want to pick up the next book right away because this one ends on a bit of a cliffhanger - not a huge one. I know that I will be reading it this weekend!
May 27, 2018
Once again Emma shows great depth of character in her descriptions. The story is interwoven with romance and intrigue.
The storyline continues for different characters making it a true serial, the reader is left dying to know what is going to happen, what twists will come up as well.
A fantastic second book!
The storyline continues for different characters making it a true serial, the reader is left dying to know what is going to happen, what twists will come up as well.
A fantastic second book!
July 24, 2019
It sucks you in
The people in this story are so believable and you just can't wait to get more of them. There is so much going on with each one and it's a multi-viewpoint novel that is so easy to keep up with.
I am typically not a fan of cliffhangers but this already has you coming back for more anyhow. Can't wait to see what's in store for them next.
The people in this story are so believable and you just can't wait to get more of them. There is so much going on with each one and it's a multi-viewpoint novel that is so easy to keep up with.
I am typically not a fan of cliffhangers but this already has you coming back for more anyhow. Can't wait to see what's in store for them next.
May 4, 2020
Love this series!! The story captures your attention and won't let go. The characters are intriguing and I couldn't put the book down. Emma writes in POV and makes you believe the chararters are alive and talking directly to you. There is passion, love, angst and humor. The homeless story line was so believable you want to go out and help.
May 18, 2020
I’ve found myself a new favourite author in Emma James. I adore her characters and I love that we get to see all their POVs throughout rather than just the main couple. I can’t wait for them all to get their HEAs. There’s not much I can say about the storyline without spoiling things but I will say there is never a dull moment and plenty of laugh out loud moments.
October 14, 2017
Continuing to blow me away
I absolutely love this series and new character additions add to the intrigue. I love cliffhangers because it leaves you ready for more.
I absolutely love this series and new character additions add to the intrigue. I love cliffhangers because it leaves you ready for more.
March 3, 2018
Awesome!
Completely in love with these books! Sucks you in from the first page and doesn't let you go. I absolutely love all the characters in this book and can't wait for more!!
Completely in love with these books! Sucks you in from the first page and doesn't let you go. I absolutely love all the characters in this book and can't wait for more!!
March 24, 2019
I am really enjoying these books, they way they are written is just so refreshing for a series, watching the characters deal with what they are dealing with from the past and what is happening now.
July 3, 2020
Wow! A wonderful continuation of the series. I laughed and cried. I couldn't put it down.
August 27, 2015
*** 6 Star Review ***
Hope Is Lost by Emma James is the second book in the phenomenal Men of Ocean Beach Series. Once again Emma James delivered a poignant touching story that adds a few more layers to the epic ongoing story of the Men of Ocean Beach.
Hope Is Lost should not be read as a stand alone novel. The series should be read in order to experience this emotional story.
Hope Is Lost picks up where A Little Faith left off. Another revelation has been made that sent Faith into a whirlwind and left the guys dealing with the aftermath. That is only the beginning. Retro is moving full speed ahead. Slade is learning he has a softer side. Harley is learning that he can't protect everyone, especially his heart. Levi is proving that beauty goes deeper that what is on the surface. Jase is battling his silence and is reaching out for love. Keanu is going to experience another frightening event that will renew his outlook on life. Hope Is Not Lost if you have A Little Faith. He will meet two extraordinary people that will teach him the true meaning of compassion.
Hope Walker and Ajax may not have a roof over their heads or money in their pockets. What they do have is far greater than all the riches in the world. They have heart. They have compassion for their fellow man. When they meet Keanu in a very unique situation, not only will it change their own lives but those of the Men of Ocean Beach and their close circle of friends. They are going to become a part of this close knit family and make them even better people.
Along the way the Ocean Beach crew is collecting new members for them to love and protect. A surely teenage boy and his enchanting six year old sister will become a part of this family. A stunning art gallery owner and a take charge grandmother will be embraced by this family.
The Men of Ocean Beach still have their crosses to bare. They still have their secrets. The latest members are no different. This unusual group of people will give a new definition to the word family. They will always have each others backs. They will always embrace the true meaning of compassion. They will pay it forward.
Once again Emma James delivered a multi layered story that only enhances the ongoing story of the Men of Ocean Beach. They are all leading characters that are demanding their happily ever after together. The will get it and experience a beautiful journey along the way.
Hope Is Lost ended with another astounding revelation that leaves the reading dying for the next book. It was not a cliffhanger... just an intermission for the rest of the story in The Men of Ocean Beach lives.
I can't wait for Joy Is Found, the third book in the Men of Ocean Beach Series, to release.
Hope Is Lost was another phenomenal installment to the Men of Ocean Beach Series.
March 7, 2015
The continuation of the fabulous Ocean Beach Series and is every bit as glorious as the first book A Little Faith was.
We are able to catch up with all the main protagonists from the first book and we are skilfully introduced to some new ones. The relationship between the characters is absolutely the key to the story and it is written without fault. Each and every one of them is integral to the flow of the book and each of them makes your heart beat just that little bit fast because what happens to them matters and Ms James has empowered each and every one of them with the ability to break your heart.
This story belongs to Keanu – not one to show his emptions willingly, this funny guy hides behind the veneer of humour that he has carefully erected around himself but when he falls victim to a street mugger, he is left in a really bad way – his is lucky that he is found and helped by two homeless people.
Hope tries to check up on him but hates it when she becomes embroiled in the kindness and gratitude that emanates from those around Keanu, she finds thanks difficult to take and the spotlight an uncomfortable place to be.
When Keanu makes it back onto his feet and eventually sees Hope, he knows that this woman is someone that he just has to pull out all the stops for – he owes her and will do everything in his power to repay the debt that he owes her for saving his life. But he isn’t about to forget Ajax’s part in his rescue either has plans to remedy that too.
In fact Keanu was just a really good guy, I liked that he thought about others, that he was prepared to make good on his promises. He tried – I mean who the hell offers their mugger a job! But he learns quickly that there is only so much help you can give someone- not all his efforts go to plan.
I loved the dynamic that surround the whole group, the fact that Faith is as feisty as ever – she gives those guys stick and isn’t afraid to tell it like it is!
The author gives ingenious little hints to situations that are brewing so to speak, like when she shows us the change in Harley with regards to Text and Faith but she is clever in that she leave our imagination to run riot and insures that we carry the desire for the next instalment in the series.
This is a wonderful look into the lives of a diverse group of people brought together by circumstance but bonded through experience. They enrich each other’s live and provide not only hope but family.
I am looking forward to reading what Emma James has to offer in the next of the Ocean Beach instalment – a beautifully crafted, poignantly descriptive and emotionally evocative series – and I absolutely loved this story.
June 27, 2015
I'm so freaking glad I was able to jump straight into this beautiful story immediately after finishing A Little Faith. But still so mad and want to kick myself repeatedly for not reading them sooner.
This book held so much beauty and I honestly am still lost for words, but I sure as hell am going to try and write this review. The songs that inspired the author when she wrote the book is such a pivotal part of the reading too. I can't listen to Shelter by Birdy without sobbing my heart out and thinking of these characters.
The boys from the first book, along with Faith return to this second book in the series, and a few new characters, once again all holding their own importance, individuality and dynamic to the story.
These characters are a unit. They come as a whole package and support each other endlessly.
The story continues where A Little Faith left off and I just can't praise it or recommend it enough. If I could read any books for the very first time again, I know it would be these outstanding novels by Emma James. She is so freaking talented and her writing style just captivates you.
Keanu is a main focus in this book and I swear, he is just so adorable, so funny, but has a lot of sexiness going on too. In addition to that, he also has his own insecurities and it makes me want to pick him out of the book, make him into a real life person just so I can hold him. I was absolutely smitten by everything he did, everything he said and his sweet charming actions (I won't spoil that). The sweetest damn thing in the world happened in this book with Jase/Text laying claim on Faith and it just melted my heart. Emma James also delivered twists and turns that gave us the mother of all cliffhangers which is another thing I absolutely LOVE as a reader! If you want to feel a deep connection to every character mentioned in a story....THIS IS YOUR BOOK/SERIES. If you want to experience something so epic, so consuming, so BEAUTIFUL..... THIS IS YOUR BOOK/SERIES. If you want to be left with the biggest book hangover known to mankind, you want a book to wreck you for all others...... WITHOUT A DOUBT, THIS IS THE BOOK/SERIES.
A month on from finishing this book and I still think about it every single day! I NEED BOOK THREE IN THE SERIES LIKE I NEED MY LAST BREATH! I will sell body parts, my house, my man EVERYTHING to get my hands on it!
Emma James, you are without a doubt one of the most talented authors I know. You push yourself to the limits and beyond to create such devastatingly perfect scenes, life changing words and I feel so honoured to have read these books.
6 PHENOMENAL STARS
(Read and Reviewed on behalf of FMR Book Grind)
This book held so much beauty and I honestly am still lost for words, but I sure as hell am going to try and write this review. The songs that inspired the author when she wrote the book is such a pivotal part of the reading too. I can't listen to Shelter by Birdy without sobbing my heart out and thinking of these characters.
The boys from the first book, along with Faith return to this second book in the series, and a few new characters, once again all holding their own importance, individuality and dynamic to the story.
These characters are a unit. They come as a whole package and support each other endlessly.
The story continues where A Little Faith left off and I just can't praise it or recommend it enough. If I could read any books for the very first time again, I know it would be these outstanding novels by Emma James. She is so freaking talented and her writing style just captivates you.
Keanu is a main focus in this book and I swear, he is just so adorable, so funny, but has a lot of sexiness going on too. In addition to that, he also has his own insecurities and it makes me want to pick him out of the book, make him into a real life person just so I can hold him. I was absolutely smitten by everything he did, everything he said and his sweet charming actions (I won't spoil that). The sweetest damn thing in the world happened in this book with Jase/Text laying claim on Faith and it just melted my heart. Emma James also delivered twists and turns that gave us the mother of all cliffhangers which is another thing I absolutely LOVE as a reader! If you want to feel a deep connection to every character mentioned in a story....THIS IS YOUR BOOK/SERIES. If you want to experience something so epic, so consuming, so BEAUTIFUL..... THIS IS YOUR BOOK/SERIES. If you want to be left with the biggest book hangover known to mankind, you want a book to wreck you for all others...... WITHOUT A DOUBT, THIS IS THE BOOK/SERIES.
A month on from finishing this book and I still think about it every single day! I NEED BOOK THREE IN THE SERIES LIKE I NEED MY LAST BREATH! I will sell body parts, my house, my man EVERYTHING to get my hands on it!
Emma James, you are without a doubt one of the most talented authors I know. You push yourself to the limits and beyond to create such devastatingly perfect scenes, life changing words and I feel so honoured to have read these books.
6 PHENOMENAL STARS
(Read and Reviewed on behalf of FMR Book Grind)
February 18, 2015
Hope is Lost is the second book in this series. A Little Faith is the first book and introduces you to all the characters. Although I would say it is not necessary to read the first book, it was so well written and introduces you to everyone and a unique plot, that I highly recommend it. The 5 star read will help you understand the guys current struggles, that all stem from a horrible night six years before.
Each book seems to have a central character, with the rest rounding out the story. This book is about Keanu, the jokester of the group who through humor tries to lighten the dark moods that can descend out of nowhere on this group of friends. Anything can trigger the flashbacks and Keanu tries to diffuse the tense situations with quips and jokes that help dispel a sometimes awkward situation. When a drunken night takes a bad turn, Keanu is rescued by two people who literally save his life. Helping him, they stay with Keanu until a friend can come pick him up and take him to the hospital. His friends show up at the hospital and rally around him to ensure he is taken care of. Keanu wants to thank these guardian angels who were in the right place at the right time and when a chance encounter brings them together, he jumps at the chance to help. But life has been hard for the two strangers and Keanu soon learns that trusting someone when you live on the streets is nearly impossible. Hope and Ajax have only had each other to rely on and trust so when Keanu offers a helping hand they are reluctant to accept the assistance. Can Keanu pay it forward and help save his guardian angels, or is hope so lost, that there is no way back to society for Ajax and Hope and their only reality will forever be the streets?
What a fantastic read! I read it in one night and didn’t put it down until I had finished. For a sophomore effort, the author has kept the same writing style and stayed true to the characters I fell in love with in her first book. I love all the guys and am looking forward to reading each of their stories (especially Text). This is another book that I highly recommend, just amazing!! *****5 stars
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