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Coming Home #1
Don't Turn Back
Alternate cover edition for ASIN B00KK5BZUO
Relationships form when least expected.
Jennifer Davis is about to experience a love like no other. Living alone now in the city she grew up in, she works nights and attends college in the evening. She is at a happy point in her life until a stranger walks in.
Brian Collins can never make the right choices. Instead of facing reality head on, he allows his troubled past to interfere. So, he takes off running in search of something better.
Jennifer and Brian meet by chance.
Will she be the positive influence he needs to lead him from his previous mistakes or will she be pulled into his black cloud that follows him everywhere? Can their relationship withstand all the obstacles that come before them or will fate leave one of them hanging on by a thread?
Don't Turn Back is the story of strengths and weaknesses. Find out who is strong enough to survive and who can pull through 'til the end. The one you least expect just may be the one who chooses not to turn back.
Don't Turn Back is book one in the two-part Coming Home Series.
Relationships form when least expected.
Jennifer Davis is about to experience a love like no other. Living alone now in the city she grew up in, she works nights and attends college in the evening. She is at a happy point in her life until a stranger walks in.
Brian Collins can never make the right choices. Instead of facing reality head on, he allows his troubled past to interfere. So, he takes off running in search of something better.
Jennifer and Brian meet by chance.
Will she be the positive influence he needs to lead him from his previous mistakes or will she be pulled into his black cloud that follows him everywhere? Can their relationship withstand all the obstacles that come before them or will fate leave one of them hanging on by a thread?
Don't Turn Back is the story of strengths and weaknesses. Find out who is strong enough to survive and who can pull through 'til the end. The one you least expect just may be the one who chooses not to turn back.
Don't Turn Back is book one in the two-part Coming Home Series.
310 pages, Paperback
First published May 24, 2014
10 people are currently reading
434 people want to read
About the author
Amy Stephens
121 books550 followersAmy Stephens is a USA Today and International Bestselling contemporary romance author. Born and raised in Alabama, she lives just minutes from the beautiful gulf coast beaches.
When she’s not busy writing, you’ll find her reading, going on cruises with her husband, or taking a road trip for a girl’s weekend getaway. She’s a huge sports fan, but she prefers watching the games at home where she can curl up on the couch with her feline fur babies.
Amy released her first book in 2014 and now has over twenty published works, from sweet and clean, rom-com, sports and firefighters, there's bound to be a hero for all of her readers.
Find her on social media:
https://www.facebook.com/amystephensa...
https://www.instagram.com/amystephens...
https://www.bookbub.com/authors/amy-s...
Goodreads:
goodreads.com/amystephens
Newsletter: http://eepurl.com/dq9San
Drop her an email:
amystephensauthor@gmail.com
When she’s not busy writing, you’ll find her reading, going on cruises with her husband, or taking a road trip for a girl’s weekend getaway. She’s a huge sports fan, but she prefers watching the games at home where she can curl up on the couch with her feline fur babies.
Amy released her first book in 2014 and now has over twenty published works, from sweet and clean, rom-com, sports and firefighters, there's bound to be a hero for all of her readers.
Find her on social media:
https://www.facebook.com/amystephensa...
https://www.instagram.com/amystephens...
https://www.bookbub.com/authors/amy-s...
Goodreads:
goodreads.com/amystephens
Newsletter: http://eepurl.com/dq9San
Drop her an email:
amystephensauthor@gmail.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
June 2, 2014
This was a really good read. It deals with real life situations that can arise in a relationship.
Brian Collins, 21 years old and has no clue what he is doing or where he is going with his life. Unable to maintain a job and finds himself in a bad breakup and kicked out of his home. Packs his things and takes off with no real destination in mind and very little money.
Jennifer Davis, 21 years old and has a perfectly routine life. She has her own apartment, attends college and has a stable job.
Jennifer and Brian find themselves falling for each other fairly quickly. Jennifer is very understanding of Brian's situations and tries to be supportive. Brian is very sweet with Jennifer but he has his moments where you're left thinking "really Brian" ugh "grow the fuck up dude." And times where you just want to smack him. Then there are those moments when you just feel sorry for him and then he melts your heart all over again. Then we have Jennifer, she is such a good hearted person and she does everything she can to help and be there for Brian. Until their relationship takes a turn for the worse and she finds herself asking "is this what I really want?" "Where do I go from here?" There is only so much a girl can take. And let me tell ya, she puts up with a lot, including, Brian’s instability and anger.
This is the first book in a two part series so yes there is a cliffhanger. But it will definitely leave you wanting more. I can't wait to read the next book and find out what is in store for Jennifer and if Brian will ever get his shit together.
Brian Collins, 21 years old and has no clue what he is doing or where he is going with his life. Unable to maintain a job and finds himself in a bad breakup and kicked out of his home. Packs his things and takes off with no real destination in mind and very little money.
Jennifer Davis, 21 years old and has a perfectly routine life. She has her own apartment, attends college and has a stable job.
Jennifer and Brian find themselves falling for each other fairly quickly. Jennifer is very understanding of Brian's situations and tries to be supportive. Brian is very sweet with Jennifer but he has his moments where you're left thinking "really Brian" ugh "grow the fuck up dude." And times where you just want to smack him. Then there are those moments when you just feel sorry for him and then he melts your heart all over again. Then we have Jennifer, she is such a good hearted person and she does everything she can to help and be there for Brian. Until their relationship takes a turn for the worse and she finds herself asking "is this what I really want?" "Where do I go from here?" There is only so much a girl can take. And let me tell ya, she puts up with a lot, including, Brian’s instability and anger.
This is the first book in a two part series so yes there is a cliffhanger. But it will definitely leave you wanting more. I can't wait to read the next book and find out what is in store for Jennifer and if Brian will ever get his shit together.
May 23, 2014
I was fortunate enough to receive an ARC for this first book by Amy Stephens.
The thing I loved most about this book is that the characters have a very real grounding in reality. They are believable. And, at least for me, for the most part they evoke some emotion right away.
Brian is introduced with a fair amount of drama and I disliked him immediately. The interesting thing about his character is that as the story went on, I became more sympathetic towards him. His character doesn't stay static, though I think he probably remains the same person underneath and we are not privy to it.
Jennifer is a bit of a mary sue, however, I think she is well written in that role. At first I scoffed a little at her naivete and innocence, but as I read through it made more sense and rounded out her personality nicely. I especially like that the other side of her is adventurous and willing to take risks. Even though they may turn out to be bad decisions later. She goes all in and takes those chances. It's risky and she knows it, but if it feels right, she's going to do it. I love that about her.
I won't go through the synopsis again, but suffice it to say, this story isn't your typical romance. It feels well thought out and the situations that present themselves are believable enough that immersion isn't broken. I really did enjoy the story and I have to commend Amy for a great plot line throughout on her first release. It's refreshing to see someone not bring out your cliche meet, fall in love, have fight, happily ever after.
The only thing I would say is that Amy hasn't yet found her author's voice. This isn't a bad thing, though, when compared to everything else. It took a bit to get used to the flow of the sentences, but once I did reading Don't Turn Back was a very enjoyable experience.
I would definitely recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a good romance.
I can't wait for the sequel!
The thing I loved most about this book is that the characters have a very real grounding in reality. They are believable. And, at least for me, for the most part they evoke some emotion right away.
Brian is introduced with a fair amount of drama and I disliked him immediately. The interesting thing about his character is that as the story went on, I became more sympathetic towards him. His character doesn't stay static, though I think he probably remains the same person underneath and we are not privy to it.
Jennifer is a bit of a mary sue, however, I think she is well written in that role. At first I scoffed a little at her naivete and innocence, but as I read through it made more sense and rounded out her personality nicely. I especially like that the other side of her is adventurous and willing to take risks. Even though they may turn out to be bad decisions later. She goes all in and takes those chances. It's risky and she knows it, but if it feels right, she's going to do it. I love that about her.
I won't go through the synopsis again, but suffice it to say, this story isn't your typical romance. It feels well thought out and the situations that present themselves are believable enough that immersion isn't broken. I really did enjoy the story and I have to commend Amy for a great plot line throughout on her first release. It's refreshing to see someone not bring out your cliche meet, fall in love, have fight, happily ever after.
The only thing I would say is that Amy hasn't yet found her author's voice. This isn't a bad thing, though, when compared to everything else. It took a bit to get used to the flow of the sentences, but once I did reading Don't Turn Back was a very enjoyable experience.
I would definitely recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a good romance.
I can't wait for the sequel!
May 28, 2014
The things that I loved most about this book was that the characters are grounded and real. With this I was able to connect with them and felt like I could be part of the story.
This was not your typical romance. The characters are presented in a believable situation. By having them believable it made the plot great.
Jennifer---She was very level headed and smart. The two qualities also make he a little naïve and innocent. At first this made her seem as a person that could be taken advantage of but the more I read the more she became a very well rounded character and also showed that she was a very loving person. I loved that she was willing to take risks and was adventures.
Brian---He is introduced by showing his struggles. This continues through out the book. Even though he struggles he does seem to try to make things better for himself as well as those around him. However, all of his struggles seem to catch up with him every time that he advances. With his struggles Brian doesn't really know how to handle the after math very well. So how does this Affect Jennifer and him? You will have to read to find out.
For Amy Stephens first novel this book was great. You can tell that she thoroughly thought through what she wanted to portray.
Don't Turn Back was a very enjoyable experience to read, and I will recommend others to read this book.
**I received an ARC for an honest review**
This was not your typical romance. The characters are presented in a believable situation. By having them believable it made the plot great.
Jennifer---She was very level headed and smart. The two qualities also make he a little naïve and innocent. At first this made her seem as a person that could be taken advantage of but the more I read the more she became a very well rounded character and also showed that she was a very loving person. I loved that she was willing to take risks and was adventures.
Brian---He is introduced by showing his struggles. This continues through out the book. Even though he struggles he does seem to try to make things better for himself as well as those around him. However, all of his struggles seem to catch up with him every time that he advances. With his struggles Brian doesn't really know how to handle the after math very well. So how does this Affect Jennifer and him? You will have to read to find out.
For Amy Stephens first novel this book was great. You can tell that she thoroughly thought through what she wanted to portray.
Don't Turn Back was a very enjoyable experience to read, and I will recommend others to read this book.
**I received an ARC for an honest review**
May 29, 2014
I was lucky enough to receive an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This book had me on the edge of my seat the whole time I was reading it. Jennifer is a very sweet, trusting girl who opens her heart to Brian, a guy she just met. Brian was kicked out of his ex-girlfriend's house and drives to Morgantown to start over. He had to live in his car because he had no money and no job. Jennifer strikes up a friendship with him and things progress from there. I can honestly say I was unsettled about Brian and his past while I was reading! Their relationship just progressed so fast!
The one thing that bothered me about this book wad the terms of endearment used between Jennifer and Brian. I know this may seem crazy to some of you, but I just didn't understand how two people who barely knew each other started calling reach other babe, baby, and hun.
I'm very excited to read the second book and to finish the story between Jennifer and Brian.
This book had me on the edge of my seat the whole time I was reading it. Jennifer is a very sweet, trusting girl who opens her heart to Brian, a guy she just met. Brian was kicked out of his ex-girlfriend's house and drives to Morgantown to start over. He had to live in his car because he had no money and no job. Jennifer strikes up a friendship with him and things progress from there. I can honestly say I was unsettled about Brian and his past while I was reading! Their relationship just progressed so fast!
The one thing that bothered me about this book wad the terms of endearment used between Jennifer and Brian. I know this may seem crazy to some of you, but I just didn't understand how two people who barely knew each other started calling reach other babe, baby, and hun.
I'm very excited to read the second book and to finish the story between Jennifer and Brian.
September 8, 2014
This is one of the reasons I love doing what I do.
I love reading for new aspiring Indie/self published authors at times because you get to enjoy and discover new talent.
Amy Stephens is an author you need to keep an eye on in MHO as she writes well, great convincing storyline.
I'm not into giving spoilers, just how I felt reading this book.
it travelled along brilliantly the ending not how I expected it so was an added bonus for me as its leading onto the next book in the series.
its not a cliff hanger as such, but truly needs to be broadened out in the next book. Can't wait to meet Todd.
I love reading for new aspiring Indie/self published authors at times because you get to enjoy and discover new talent.
Amy Stephens is an author you need to keep an eye on in MHO as she writes well, great convincing storyline.
I'm not into giving spoilers, just how I felt reading this book.
it travelled along brilliantly the ending not how I expected it so was an added bonus for me as its leading onto the next book in the series.
its not a cliff hanger as such, but truly needs to be broadened out in the next book. Can't wait to meet Todd.
May 30, 2014
I love books that evoke real emotions.....the real stuff; the nitty gritty part of life that is about love; messing up; friendships, the good parts, the bad parts; and the human side of it all that nothing is perfect and sometimes the greatest blessings comes from our worst decisions. This book is all that and more. I can't wait to see where Jennifer's life goes from here......
May 8, 2014
I loved the book. Amy you did an awesome job. I would definitely recommend. I can't wait for book two!!!!
July 28, 2014
loved this story it was an amazing read well done to this amazing author. xxx
August 17, 2014
I received this as an ARC. I really loved Jennifer and Rebecca. They have a true friendship. I hated Brian from the word go. I won't say why here but I do. I can't wait to read book 2.
May 20, 2014
I was lucky enough to receive an ARC for this book.
This story did not disappoint, i loved every bit
Brian cooper is 21 years old and he cant hold down a job, His girlfriend Macy ends the relationship after she finds out he didn't pay her rent.
Brain then leaves town and starts sleeping in his car.
Jennifer is a hardworking girl, she works nights at a hotel and attends uni in the evenings.Jennifer meets Brain when he nicks her parking spot in work and Jennifer helps him out when the police turn up after that first meeting they get on really well and start a relationship really quickly but the relationship turns sour after Brain loses yet another job.
After a certain incident where Brian and Jennifer have a big argument, Jennifer meets Todd a handsome Stranger that steps in to help her when shes left stranded miles away from home and they quickly form an friendship.
Hope we see more of Todd in the second book, looking forward to what happens next.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 4, 2014
This is a wonderful read. The story is different from most of the other books in this genre in that the characters are not perfect. This is the story of a young man and a young woman trying to find their footing in the real world and struggling with some grave mistakes and set backs along the way.
I am anxiously waiting to see what happens next in book 2!! Wonderful job by a fresh new voice in story telling!
I am anxiously waiting to see what happens next in book 2!! Wonderful job by a fresh new voice in story telling!
October 4, 2014
What a mess Brian is - can't hold a job - he's just a mess - until he gets to Morgan town -- people are so nice to him he can't figure out why - but then he meets Jennifer- she falls right into his hands - I really believed that he would change, he really does love her but when things turn bad for him he just doesn't have it in him to tell the truth - what he did with Rebecca well he knew better but that's how he is - he reels people in to get what he wants -- good book can't wait for book 2
July 11, 2014
*ARC FOR HONEST REVIEW*
This is one of the reasons we as bloggers, do what we do... coming upon new up and coming author for readers! Amy Stephens was a new to me author who did not disappoint! She gives a well written solid story that snatches and hold you for start to end! This is one author to keep an eye on!
This is one of the reasons we as bloggers, do what we do... coming upon new up and coming author for readers! Amy Stephens was a new to me author who did not disappoint! She gives a well written solid story that snatches and hold you for start to end! This is one author to keep an eye on!
February 18, 2015
Have absoultley loved this book ! Loved the characters and felt there emotions and found myself shouting at my kindle (lol) This book defenetly sucks you in and makes you want to give Brian a good shake . Looking forward to reading more from this author . Thanks for entertaining me for the night xxx
June 23, 2014
This one will have you jerking back and forth. One minute I love Brian then next I hate him then I feel sorry for him. Then you have Jennifer and you can't help but love her, as well as tell her to run far away! I can't wait for the sequel to see where this all ends up.
June 19, 2014
This was a really good read, especially for Amy Stephens' first novel. I held out hope for Brian :-( pretty sad but also realistic. I hope for a HEA in book two with charming Todd.
June 29, 2014
This book is amazing!!! I was captivated from the first to the last page!!! Full review to come!! :)
February 20, 2018
Don't Turn Back was absolutely incredible!! This book pulled at a lot of my emotions. I did not want to put my kindle down I am going to say this book deals with real life situations. This story totally breaks your heart at the same time filled with love.I am not going to post any spoilers though!! I am anxiously waiting to see what happens with Jennifer & Brian in book 2!! Awesome job Amy Stephens!
June 3, 2014
"Complimentary copy provided by author/publisher for an honest review."
To be totally honest here rating this book was very difficult. This is Amy Stephens first book and I wanted to be fair. Here we go. . .
Just 2 ☆☆ stars for "Don't turn back"
The book was slow and very predictable. None of the characters were lovable or adorable. I didn't like any of them. Actually I hated from the bottom of my heart this Brian guy. He is just the kind of guy I just wouldn't fall in love with.
At first I was mad at Macy ( ex-GF ), but after reading a few more pages I realized Brian is person just watching a movie. He just watches a that's it. Brian does nothing to be part of the movie. For him Life is a destination, not a journey. So *Thumbs Up* to Macy for kicking him out.
Jennifer? No comments there.
The storyline doesn't take the reader prisoner, but I'm sure the writer will get better! Every Book is an experience.
To be totally honest here rating this book was very difficult. This is Amy Stephens first book and I wanted to be fair. Here we go. . .
Just 2 ☆☆ stars for "Don't turn back"
The book was slow and very predictable. None of the characters were lovable or adorable. I didn't like any of them. Actually I hated from the bottom of my heart this Brian guy. He is just the kind of guy I just wouldn't fall in love with.
At first I was mad at Macy ( ex-GF ), but after reading a few more pages I realized Brian is person just watching a movie. He just watches a that's it. Brian does nothing to be part of the movie. For him Life is a destination, not a journey. So *Thumbs Up* to Macy for kicking him out.
Jennifer? No comments there.
The storyline doesn't take the reader prisoner, but I'm sure the writer will get better! Every Book is an experience.
May 19, 2015
Don’t Turn Back is the story of the struggles young people go through trying to find their way and themselves. It’s about how they face situations and the decisions they make that affect their lives forever. It is real and convincing.
I have to admit I had a hard time getting into the story. The flow was not fast-paced as I’m used to and the characters weren’t very likeable at the beginning.
Brian was young and self-centered. He didn’t have an idea of where his life was going or should go. He met Macy and after a short time, he moved in with her, yet didn’t pull his weight in helping out. Just when I thought he would own up to his mistakes and accept his faults, he goes and does something to make me hate him and want to throw something at his head. It was frustrating to see how clueless he was.
After he found himself kicked out and with no means to make it, I thought he’d finally get a grip and make something of himself, but he was always waiting for everything to fall at his feet without much effort.
When he meets Jennifer, I was hoping their relationship –which moved very quickly, IMHO- would give him some purpose and incentive to better himself, but alas, his actions remained the same and his character didn’t develop from where he first started.
Jennifer was very trusting and gave him the benefit of the doubt many times. She helped him out from the very first moment she met him and continued to stand by him, but he didn’t deserve it.
Their relationship takes a turn for the worst and the story finally started to pick up when Todd entered the scene.
I found myself yelling at my kindle many times, as I couldn’t believe what I was reading. At times I felt sorry for the predicament which Brian found himself in, but I stopped and remembered that he put himself there all the time.
For a debut novel, I think the author did a good job in bringing us a fresh storyline, but there is more that can be done. The beginning was filled with things that didn’t move the story much, but I feel like she started to get her footing halfway into it.
The ending is not much of a cliffhanger, where you’re pulling your hair out, but it does leave you wanting to know what happens with the characters.
I have to admit I had a hard time getting into the story. The flow was not fast-paced as I’m used to and the characters weren’t very likeable at the beginning.
Brian was young and self-centered. He didn’t have an idea of where his life was going or should go. He met Macy and after a short time, he moved in with her, yet didn’t pull his weight in helping out. Just when I thought he would own up to his mistakes and accept his faults, he goes and does something to make me hate him and want to throw something at his head. It was frustrating to see how clueless he was.
After he found himself kicked out and with no means to make it, I thought he’d finally get a grip and make something of himself, but he was always waiting for everything to fall at his feet without much effort.
When he meets Jennifer, I was hoping their relationship –which moved very quickly, IMHO- would give him some purpose and incentive to better himself, but alas, his actions remained the same and his character didn’t develop from where he first started.
Jennifer was very trusting and gave him the benefit of the doubt many times. She helped him out from the very first moment she met him and continued to stand by him, but he didn’t deserve it.
Their relationship takes a turn for the worst and the story finally started to pick up when Todd entered the scene.
I found myself yelling at my kindle many times, as I couldn’t believe what I was reading. At times I felt sorry for the predicament which Brian found himself in, but I stopped and remembered that he put himself there all the time.
For a debut novel, I think the author did a good job in bringing us a fresh storyline, but there is more that can be done. The beginning was filled with things that didn’t move the story much, but I feel like she started to get her footing halfway into it.
The ending is not much of a cliffhanger, where you’re pulling your hair out, but it does leave you wanting to know what happens with the characters.
February 21, 2015
I purchased this book since I was given an ARC of the 2nd book in this series. With that being said, I found it to be quite enjoyable. From page one I could tell that I wasn't going to like Brian, he was a self absorbed a$$hole, who always blames his mistakes on others. The book was easy to relate to because we all have one of those in our lives. You know the kind, they feel as though everyone else is at fault for their life choices. After a bad break up Brian decides to hit the road (after robbing the woman he was dating) and finds himself in the parking lot of a hotel. What he doesn't know is that this decision is about to shape his entire future.
After several days of sleeping in his car and parking in one of the employee's spots, he is confronted by police. Once brought inside he meets the lovely Jennifer, who proceeds to lend him some money because she is a kind hearted spirit. Their relationship starts on a lie and continues from there. They are both "madly in love" an decided to run off and elope after finding out they were expecting. Brian turns out to be everything she expected in a man, at least that's what she thought. Eventually Brians true self rears its ugly head and Jennifer is left wondering where she went wrong. On their way to visit Brians parents, an incident occurs and she is left stranded at a diner alone and pregnant. She ends up meeting a nice stranger who offers her a ride home. Does Brian change his ways for the girl of his dreams or does he continue on the destructive path he has been on his entire life? Is love enough to change a person or is all hope lost for Jennifer?
The book definitely had you yelling at Jennifer for being so blind, but who can blame her. Brian was handsome and charming, hid his lies well and had her falling hard. I definitely recommend reading this book, you will find that it is very realistic and heart breaking.
After several days of sleeping in his car and parking in one of the employee's spots, he is confronted by police. Once brought inside he meets the lovely Jennifer, who proceeds to lend him some money because she is a kind hearted spirit. Their relationship starts on a lie and continues from there. They are both "madly in love" an decided to run off and elope after finding out they were expecting. Brian turns out to be everything she expected in a man, at least that's what she thought. Eventually Brians true self rears its ugly head and Jennifer is left wondering where she went wrong. On their way to visit Brians parents, an incident occurs and she is left stranded at a diner alone and pregnant. She ends up meeting a nice stranger who offers her a ride home. Does Brian change his ways for the girl of his dreams or does he continue on the destructive path he has been on his entire life? Is love enough to change a person or is all hope lost for Jennifer?
The book definitely had you yelling at Jennifer for being so blind, but who can blame her. Brian was handsome and charming, hid his lies well and had her falling hard. I definitely recommend reading this book, you will find that it is very realistic and heart breaking.
May 31, 2014
I had a hard time getting into this book. The writing did not flow very well, making it difficult to concentrate on the story. There seemed to be a lot of mundane information that didn't really contribute to the story.
I also wasn't very fond of the characters overall. While Jennifer seemed okay at first, it was like she was evolving backward to a less confident character from how she was when the book started. And Brian-I really couldn't stand him at the beginning, he comes across as self-centered and flip-flops between admitting his wrongs and blaming others for things that happen. As the story progresses, he seems to get a little better as his situation improves, but then when things go wrong he just slips back into his old ways, making his character even harder to like. The only character I liked was Todd; he's written as such a good guy it's hard not to like him.
I think the author has a good idea here, but the execution is a bit off. If I don't really care for the characters and the writing doesn't flow-leading to a rough read-it makes me less likely to continue reading. I had to push myself through this one. I may get the second book when it comes out just to see what happens to the characters, but if I don't wind up reading the next one, it won't really bother me. My overall star rating is closer to 2.5 stars, I rounded it to 3 for the idea behind the story and Todd's character.
Thank you to the author for the ARC and the opportunity to review this book in exchange for an honest review.
I also wasn't very fond of the characters overall. While Jennifer seemed okay at first, it was like she was evolving backward to a less confident character from how she was when the book started. And Brian-I really couldn't stand him at the beginning, he comes across as self-centered and flip-flops between admitting his wrongs and blaming others for things that happen. As the story progresses, he seems to get a little better as his situation improves, but then when things go wrong he just slips back into his old ways, making his character even harder to like. The only character I liked was Todd; he's written as such a good guy it's hard not to like him.
I think the author has a good idea here, but the execution is a bit off. If I don't really care for the characters and the writing doesn't flow-leading to a rough read-it makes me less likely to continue reading. I had to push myself through this one. I may get the second book when it comes out just to see what happens to the characters, but if I don't wind up reading the next one, it won't really bother me. My overall star rating is closer to 2.5 stars, I rounded it to 3 for the idea behind the story and Todd's character.
Thank you to the author for the ARC and the opportunity to review this book in exchange for an honest review.
September 8, 2016
I'm sitting in the middle of the road with this book. While I didn't love it, I didn't hate it either.
I liked the story and the real life issues it dealt with. For a debut novel the author nailed the ending. I thought it was perfect. Not enough to be a killer cliffy but enough to make you want to read book 2 to find out where the story goes.
I had some trouble with the characters and the way they were written especially Brian & Jennifer. Brian - I was so tired of reading about all the ways he screwed his life up. It was like a broken record, doing the same shit over and over again. I didn't find his anger believable; to me it just seemed to manifest out of nowhere. Jennifer - She was a strong independent woman...then she wasn't. Huh, what happened there? Did she completely change who she is when she fell blindly in love, completely overlooking things about Brian that she should have taken more notice of?
I had trouble getting through the first half of the book because of the character issues and the writing style. It seemed to flow a lot better after I hit about the midway point like the author finally found her stride.
I’ll probably get the 2nd book because I would like to see where the author takes the characters and story. Does Jennifer leave Brian for good, does Todd step up and be the man that Brian should have been?
I will definitely be keeping an eye out for more from Amy Stephens to see what other good stories she has up her sleeve. 3.5 stars rounded to 4.
Free copy provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
I liked the story and the real life issues it dealt with. For a debut novel the author nailed the ending. I thought it was perfect. Not enough to be a killer cliffy but enough to make you want to read book 2 to find out where the story goes.
I had some trouble with the characters and the way they were written especially Brian & Jennifer. Brian - I was so tired of reading about all the ways he screwed his life up. It was like a broken record, doing the same shit over and over again. I didn't find his anger believable; to me it just seemed to manifest out of nowhere. Jennifer - She was a strong independent woman...then she wasn't. Huh, what happened there? Did she completely change who she is when she fell blindly in love, completely overlooking things about Brian that she should have taken more notice of?
I had trouble getting through the first half of the book because of the character issues and the writing style. It seemed to flow a lot better after I hit about the midway point like the author finally found her stride.
I’ll probably get the 2nd book because I would like to see where the author takes the characters and story. Does Jennifer leave Brian for good, does Todd step up and be the man that Brian should have been?
I will definitely be keeping an eye out for more from Amy Stephens to see what other good stories she has up her sleeve. 3.5 stars rounded to 4.
Free copy provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
August 29, 2015
The things that I loved most about this book was that the characters are grounded and real. With this I was able to connect with them and felt like I could be part of the story.
This was not your typical romance. The characters are presented in a believable situation. By having them believable it made the plot great.
Jennifer---She was very level headed and smart. The two qualities also make he a little naïve and innocent. At first this made her seem as a person that could be taken advantage of but the more I read the more she became a very well rounded character and also showed that she was a very loving person. I loved that she was willing to take risks and was adventures.
Brian---He is introduced by showing his struggles. This continues through out the book. Even though he struggles he does seem to try to make things better for himself as well as those around him. However, all of his struggles seem to catch up with him every time that he advances. With his struggles Brian doesn't really know how to handle the after math very well. So how does this Affect Jennifer and him? You will have to read to find out.
For Amy Stephens first novel this book was great. You can tell that she thoroughly thought through what she wanted to portray.
Don't Turn Back was a very enjoyable experience to read, and I will recommend others to read this book.
**I received an ARC for an honest review**
This was not your typical romance. The characters are presented in a believable situation. By having them believable it made the plot great.
Jennifer---She was very level headed and smart. The two qualities also make he a little naïve and innocent. At first this made her seem as a person that could be taken advantage of but the more I read the more she became a very well rounded character and also showed that she was a very loving person. I loved that she was willing to take risks and was adventures.
Brian---He is introduced by showing his struggles. This continues through out the book. Even though he struggles he does seem to try to make things better for himself as well as those around him. However, all of his struggles seem to catch up with him every time that he advances. With his struggles Brian doesn't really know how to handle the after math very well. So how does this Affect Jennifer and him? You will have to read to find out.
For Amy Stephens first novel this book was great. You can tell that she thoroughly thought through what she wanted to portray.
Don't Turn Back was a very enjoyable experience to read, and I will recommend others to read this book.
**I received an ARC for an honest review**
October 16, 2014
I had a love/hate relationship with this book. The storyline was great in that it dealt with true to life relationship problems. It also takes you on an emotional rollercoaster ride, just like life does. Believe me when this book will make you want to throw your e-reader, then has you crying, then laughing and then pulling out your hair.
So why the love/hate relationship you ask. Let’s start with Brian. I just wanted to strangle him at times, ok most of the time. Just when I was starting to like him and have hope for him he would turn around and does something that made me want to strangle him again. I know people have ups and downs in their life but he did not make good judgments sometimes.
Jennifer is working hard for her future. She is a nice girl and treats everyone with respect. She is an innocent girl and gives Brian many fair chances in their relationship. There were times when I wanted to tell her to open her eyes and see the things she needed to see.
I gave the story 4 stars because it did make me go through so many emotions while reading it. It is not often that you read a story that is realistic and believable just like you may be living it. Can’t wait to see what the future holds for Jennifer and Brian.
So why the love/hate relationship you ask. Let’s start with Brian. I just wanted to strangle him at times, ok most of the time. Just when I was starting to like him and have hope for him he would turn around and does something that made me want to strangle him again. I know people have ups and downs in their life but he did not make good judgments sometimes.
Jennifer is working hard for her future. She is a nice girl and treats everyone with respect. She is an innocent girl and gives Brian many fair chances in their relationship. There were times when I wanted to tell her to open her eyes and see the things she needed to see.
I gave the story 4 stars because it did make me go through so many emotions while reading it. It is not often that you read a story that is realistic and believable just like you may be living it. Can’t wait to see what the future holds for Jennifer and Brian.
May 4, 2016
Wow! An emotional rollercoaster with a cliffhanger ending!
Ms. Stephens has really set the stage with Don't Turn Back for a potentially amazing series. This is book #1 in the series and ends in a cliffhanger that will be sure to have to BEGGING for more.
You meet a sweet young woman who is still trying to find herself. By what seems to be chance or maybe fate she meets a handsome young man with a questionable past and intentions. He struggles to do what's right, but seems to have a curse over his head or has a case of the "can't catch a breaks", or so it seems. All along he leaves you with a worried feeling deep in your gut that no matter what you just can't shake. She is so naïve that she seems to over look everything even with it's seems to send up BIG RED FLAGS!
The entire book you are left on the edge of your seat wondering.. What will come of them? Will she finally see what's best for her, or will she continue to turn a blind eye? Can he really mature and be the man he hide deep inside, or will he force himself to relive the vicious cycle over and over again??
This is an amazing book and I can't wait to finish the series and learn what is to become of these very interesting characters.
Ms. Stephens has really set the stage with Don't Turn Back for a potentially amazing series. This is book #1 in the series and ends in a cliffhanger that will be sure to have to BEGGING for more.
You meet a sweet young woman who is still trying to find herself. By what seems to be chance or maybe fate she meets a handsome young man with a questionable past and intentions. He struggles to do what's right, but seems to have a curse over his head or has a case of the "can't catch a breaks", or so it seems. All along he leaves you with a worried feeling deep in your gut that no matter what you just can't shake. She is so naïve that she seems to over look everything even with it's seems to send up BIG RED FLAGS!
The entire book you are left on the edge of your seat wondering.. What will come of them? Will she finally see what's best for her, or will she continue to turn a blind eye? Can he really mature and be the man he hide deep inside, or will he force himself to relive the vicious cycle over and over again??
This is an amazing book and I can't wait to finish the series and learn what is to become of these very interesting characters.
May 27, 2016
Wow! An emotional rollercoaster with a cliffhanger ending!
Ms. Stephens has really set the stage with Don't Turn Back for a potentially amazing series. This is book #1 in the series and ends in a cliffhanger that will be sure to have to BEGGING for more.
You meet a sweet young woman who is still trying to find herself. By what seems to be chance or maybe fate she meets a handsome young man with a questionable past and intentions. He struggles to do what's right, but seems to have a curse over his head or has a case of the "can't catch a breaks", or so it seems. All along he leaves you with a worried feeling deep in your gut that no matter what you just can't shake. She is so naïve that she seems to over look everything even with it's seems to send up BIG RED FLAGS!
The entire book you are left on the edge of your seat wondering.. What will come of them? Will she finally see what's best for her, or will she continue to turn a blind eye? Can he really mature and be the man he hide deep inside, or will he force himself to relive the vicious cycle over and over again??
This is an amazing book and I can't wait to finish the series and learn what is to become of these very interesting characters.
Ms. Stephens has really set the stage with Don't Turn Back for a potentially amazing series. This is book #1 in the series and ends in a cliffhanger that will be sure to have to BEGGING for more.
You meet a sweet young woman who is still trying to find herself. By what seems to be chance or maybe fate she meets a handsome young man with a questionable past and intentions. He struggles to do what's right, but seems to have a curse over his head or has a case of the "can't catch a breaks", or so it seems. All along he leaves you with a worried feeling deep in your gut that no matter what you just can't shake. She is so naïve that she seems to over look everything even with it's seems to send up BIG RED FLAGS!
The entire book you are left on the edge of your seat wondering.. What will come of them? Will she finally see what's best for her, or will she continue to turn a blind eye? Can he really mature and be the man he hide deep inside, or will he force himself to relive the vicious cycle over and over again??
This is an amazing book and I can't wait to finish the series and learn what is to become of these very interesting characters.
October 30, 2014
I thought this was a very good book. To some people this book hits close to home. I know a few people that had or has a relationship close to what Jennifer has with Brian. Jennifer is this sweet,innocent girl who has never been in love, or in a real relationship for that matter.... until she meet Brian. Brian seems like a great guy, but has a dark past and a bad temper. He is good at charming Jennifer and making her think he is a wonderful guy, but in all reality he is a jerk who is only worried about himself. He has no job or money and he slides through life scamming off anyone he can. He meets Jennifer and draws her in and she ends up falling in love with him. He puts her through hell throughout the book and she ends up pregnant and married to him. He lies, and cheats, has a bad temper and doesn't want to grow up and take responsibility for his actions at all. In the end she ends up running away from him for the 2rd time, and leans on a new friend for help. Let's just hope she learns her lesson and doesn't end up going back to him, for her and the baby's sake!
June 4, 2014
I really struggled to finish this book, the plot is ok but it is just so incredibly slow and stilted. I disliked Brian immediately and couldn't understand why Jennifer gave him the time of day. Rebecca is an awful character too. The only character that seemed to have anything going for the was Todd, by the time he entered the story things looked up a little.
Jennifer is a hard working college student with a full time job in a hotel. One night a stranger arrives, she helps him out with the police and herself drawn to him. Brian is a hopeless good for nothing character who manipulates Jennifer into helping him so he doesn't have to live in his car any longer. Brian tries to be a better person but holding down a job and being responsible isn't something that comes easy to him. Will Jennifer be able to enjoy the changed Brian or will he slip back into his terrible ways?
I'm not sure if I'd read any more in this series.
Jennifer is a hard working college student with a full time job in a hotel. One night a stranger arrives, she helps him out with the police and herself drawn to him. Brian is a hopeless good for nothing character who manipulates Jennifer into helping him so he doesn't have to live in his car any longer. Brian tries to be a better person but holding down a job and being responsible isn't something that comes easy to him. Will Jennifer be able to enjoy the changed Brian or will he slip back into his terrible ways?
I'm not sure if I'd read any more in this series.
September 27, 2014
This book is hard to review... I would say this book deserves 2.5 stars... Not because I disliked the book, but more so because I disliked the characters.. Brian is the epitome of the kind of man I hate... As for Jennifer, it really bothered me how book smart she was, but how naive she was when it came relationships.. Do not let this book deter you from reading book two... Amy promises book two to be better!
#teamtodd!!!
#teamtodd!!!
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