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Surviving #1
Surviving
Emma and her twin brother, Danny, managed to escape the horrors of their childhood and their abusive father when they were sixteen. They have spent the last seven years trying to survive the world and build a better future. When Emma starts a promising new job at the Alexander Marketing Corporation she meets the boss and CEO, Trace Alexander. The chemistry is instantaneous and, although they try to fight the inappropriate attraction, they tumble headlong into a scorching affair. Soon after, menacing events and threats on Emma’s life have them believing that their abusive father has finally found them and wants to punish her for leaving. One bad decision places Emma in the hands of the man she has been running from and threatens her very life.
- GenresContemporary Romance
231 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 15, 2014
4 people are currently reading
247 people want to read
About the author
Michelle Leigh
11 books7 followersWhen I was 15, I was forced to visit the library against my will to find a book for school. I ultimately decided on V.C. Andrews', Flowers in the Attic. Since the moment I stepped into that mesmerizing world of fantasy, imaginary places, and creative characters, I have wanted nothing more than to write novels.
I'm currently living in Illinois with my husband and three children. When I'm not writing, I enjoy reading, sewing, stitching, painting, and almost any other creative pursuit to fill my time
I'm currently living in Illinois with my husband and three children. When I'm not writing, I enjoy reading, sewing, stitching, painting, and almost any other creative pursuit to fill my time
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Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews
June 29, 2015
Emma and her twin brother, Danny had been through the depths of hell, but they have escaped. They only had each other to lean on since they were kids. For seven years, they have tried to survive and build themselves a better future.
Emma’s world changed when she gets a new job at the Alexander Marketing Corporation and meets the new boss and CEO, Trace Alexander. But there was more to him than just a pretty face. He has a past that seemed to be a little dangerous, not to mention the inappropriateness of the attraction that they shared. There’s that baggage on her as well. Nevertheless, their chemistry was overwhelming, and soon they found themselves succumbing to it.
But just as when they seem to head off to their HEA, threats came in. Danger was lurking in every corner, and was waiting to pounce on them. Was it her past? Or was it his? One bad decision placed Emma in a dire situation and her life in danger. Would she survive? Or will their happy-ever-after end before it even begun?
Emma and Trace – they had this powerful chemistry whenever their together in one room, and tried to fight it because of the circumstances of their work. But it was just too strong to ignore. I love them together, their banters, how they care about each other, and not to mention all those steamy scenes that will get you got all over.
I found it heartbreaking for kids to suffer the kind of experience that Emma and Danny did. It happens a lot, some of us might concern ourselves with it, others might turn a blind eye – but these awful things happen. Michelle Leigh had once again brought it to our attention and snapped us out of our haze. Some of these kids might get lucky, and some not. As for Emma and Danny – they both were. They were children and yet their strength and courage to survive was unbelievable.
More than just a love story, Surviving is a story of survival, a story of a journey of a strong and courageous girl who fought her way (with her brother) for a better future. It’s heartbreaking, especially when the past comes out in the pages, but when you see Emma, and how she’s holding up – you couldn’t be more proud. I can’t help but to get wrapped up in her story, and was thankful enough I had the second book on hand, because when you reach the end of book one, you’d be instantly grabbing for it!
Review originally posted on my blog
Purchase Links: AMAZON US
Follow me on: Twitter | Facebook | tsu | Instagram
•Complimentary Copy was given in exchange for an honest review.•
More of my reviews at http://reviewsofabookmaniac.blogspot.com
Emma’s world changed when she gets a new job at the Alexander Marketing Corporation and meets the new boss and CEO, Trace Alexander. But there was more to him than just a pretty face. He has a past that seemed to be a little dangerous, not to mention the inappropriateness of the attraction that they shared. There’s that baggage on her as well. Nevertheless, their chemistry was overwhelming, and soon they found themselves succumbing to it.
But just as when they seem to head off to their HEA, threats came in. Danger was lurking in every corner, and was waiting to pounce on them. Was it her past? Or was it his? One bad decision placed Emma in a dire situation and her life in danger. Would she survive? Or will their happy-ever-after end before it even begun?
Emma and Trace – they had this powerful chemistry whenever their together in one room, and tried to fight it because of the circumstances of their work. But it was just too strong to ignore. I love them together, their banters, how they care about each other, and not to mention all those steamy scenes that will get you got all over.
I found it heartbreaking for kids to suffer the kind of experience that Emma and Danny did. It happens a lot, some of us might concern ourselves with it, others might turn a blind eye – but these awful things happen. Michelle Leigh had once again brought it to our attention and snapped us out of our haze. Some of these kids might get lucky, and some not. As for Emma and Danny – they both were. They were children and yet their strength and courage to survive was unbelievable.
More than just a love story, Surviving is a story of survival, a story of a journey of a strong and courageous girl who fought her way (with her brother) for a better future. It’s heartbreaking, especially when the past comes out in the pages, but when you see Emma, and how she’s holding up – you couldn’t be more proud. I can’t help but to get wrapped up in her story, and was thankful enough I had the second book on hand, because when you reach the end of book one, you’d be instantly grabbing for it!
Review originally posted on my blog
Purchase Links: AMAZON US
Follow me on: Twitter | Facebook | tsu | Instagram
•Complimentary Copy was given in exchange for an honest review.•
More of my reviews at http://reviewsofabookmaniac.blogspot.com
December 21, 2016
This is a contemporary romance. For adults only due to the sexual content. This story is so emotional, on so many levels. The sibling bond is especially heart melting, brother watching over sister and her trying to do the same, well I can picture it all in my head. In the end they find their way and are building futures for themselves. Yes this is a must read. Oh by the way it does end with a cliff hanger.... but man oh man what a cliff hanger.
Emma and Danny are twins, they have not had the easiest childhood. But life goes on, they adjusted and have lives of their own now. Danny travels and Emma is starting a new career and is excited. Until she meets her new boss and CEO, Trace Alexander. He make her girly parts stand attention and this can't be good... well until he makes it know that she catches his eye too. Then the danger starts.... darn it.
favorite passages:
"The sun is reflecting off the wet pavement in sporadic bursts as it struggles its way past the clouds."
"The bright blue of his eyes has turned stormy and intense."
"Why must he always look so perfect while I always look like I live on the couch at the wrong end of a cookie canister?"
"Leaning negligently against the car, he gives me a predatory grin that makes all my girly part stand up and say 'yes please.'"
Emma and Danny are twins, they have not had the easiest childhood. But life goes on, they adjusted and have lives of their own now. Danny travels and Emma is starting a new career and is excited. Until she meets her new boss and CEO, Trace Alexander. He make her girly parts stand attention and this can't be good... well until he makes it know that she catches his eye too. Then the danger starts.... darn it.
favorite passages:
"The sun is reflecting off the wet pavement in sporadic bursts as it struggles its way past the clouds."
"The bright blue of his eyes has turned stormy and intense."
"Why must he always look so perfect while I always look like I live on the couch at the wrong end of a cookie canister?"
"Leaning negligently against the car, he gives me a predatory grin that makes all my girly part stand up and say 'yes please.'"
January 12, 2015
Enticing and Beguiling 4.8 Stars!
“Surviving” is a hypnotic, spellbinding book that absolutely consumed me. It has the perfect balance of romance, intrigue and suspense to keep you completely transfixed in the story.
Emma and Daniel Black are twins, who were forced to endure an extremely abusive childhood. Now twenty one, they each are doing their best to prevail in society.
Emma has been hired at the Alexander Marketing Corp. She desperately needs this job so she can afford to continue her college education. Soon, Emma meets the charismatic Trace Alexander, the owner and CEO of the corporation. She is immediately drawn to him and he to her. She tries to fight the attraction knowing nothing good would come of it. Emma eventually loses her battle and becomes completely enthralled in a passionate love affair.
Meanwhile, Emma’s past demons are becoming a threat to her once again.
I was devastated when the book ended. It left me wanting so much more!
Author Michelle Leigh has written a powerful, unforgettable and gripping story….it’s just dazzling!
Stephanie Lasley, from The Kindle Book Review
The Kindle Book Review received a free copy of this book for an independent, fair, and honest review. We are not associated with the author or Amazon.
“Surviving” is a hypnotic, spellbinding book that absolutely consumed me. It has the perfect balance of romance, intrigue and suspense to keep you completely transfixed in the story.
Emma and Daniel Black are twins, who were forced to endure an extremely abusive childhood. Now twenty one, they each are doing their best to prevail in society.
Emma has been hired at the Alexander Marketing Corp. She desperately needs this job so she can afford to continue her college education. Soon, Emma meets the charismatic Trace Alexander, the owner and CEO of the corporation. She is immediately drawn to him and he to her. She tries to fight the attraction knowing nothing good would come of it. Emma eventually loses her battle and becomes completely enthralled in a passionate love affair.
Meanwhile, Emma’s past demons are becoming a threat to her once again.
I was devastated when the book ended. It left me wanting so much more!
Author Michelle Leigh has written a powerful, unforgettable and gripping story….it’s just dazzling!
Stephanie Lasley, from The Kindle Book Review
The Kindle Book Review received a free copy of this book for an independent, fair, and honest review. We are not associated with the author or Amazon.
January 21, 2015
SURVIVING is a very well written, highly entertaining book. The characters are realistic, the story compelling and the romance touching. Leigh snags the reader immediately with the intense, horrible situation young Danny and Emma find themselves in. These kids are so good despite the horrible things happening to them. Skip ahead to find they have not only survived their heartbreaking childhood but educated themselves. Despite a recent set back, yet another evil Emma must overcome, she is working on a career. Her past doesn't cripple her but of course affects her deeply. Enter Trace Alexander, her sexy new boss. He sees promise in Emma and more. He knows better but can't stay away. Trace is there for Emma in every way including facing the demon reemerging from her past.
The rich, privileged businessman, the poor but bright young girl, the roommate and small, inexpensive apartment, the Seattle setting all were reminiscent of Fifty Shades of Grey - minus the kink. These similarities don't distract from the book in any way though. I hated the cliffhanger ending but it did leave me wanting to read the next book immediately as was I'm sure the intent.
Rating: 4.5
Heat Rating: Steamy/Sizzling
Reviewed By: Jeanne Stone, courtesy of My Book Addiction and More
The rich, privileged businessman, the poor but bright young girl, the roommate and small, inexpensive apartment, the Seattle setting all were reminiscent of Fifty Shades of Grey - minus the kink. These similarities don't distract from the book in any way though. I hated the cliffhanger ending but it did leave me wanting to read the next book immediately as was I'm sure the intent.
Rating: 4.5
Heat Rating: Steamy/Sizzling
Reviewed By: Jeanne Stone, courtesy of My Book Addiction and More
January 26, 2017
SURVIVING is a very well written, highly entertaining book. The characters are realistic, the story compelling and the romance touching. Leigh snags the reader immediately with the intense, horrible situation young Danny and Emma find themselves in. These kids are so good despite the horrible things happening to them. Skip ahead to find they have not only survived their heartbreaking childhood but educated themselves. Despite a recent set back, yet another evil Emma must overcome, she is working on a career. Her past doesn’t cripple her but of course affects her deeply. Enter Trace Alexander, her sexy new boss. He sees promise in Emma and more. He knows better but can’t stay away. Trace is there for Emma in every way including facing the demon reemerging from her past.
The rich, privileged businessman, the poor but bright young girl, the roommate and small, inexpensive apartment, the Seattle setting all were reminiscent of Fifty Shades of Grey – minus the kink. These similarities don’t distract from the book in any way though. I hated the cliffhanger ending but it did leave me wanting to read the next book immediately as was I’m sure the intent.
Rating: 4.5
The rich, privileged businessman, the poor but bright young girl, the roommate and small, inexpensive apartment, the Seattle setting all were reminiscent of Fifty Shades of Grey – minus the kink. These similarities don’t distract from the book in any way though. I hated the cliffhanger ending but it did leave me wanting to read the next book immediately as was I’m sure the intent.
Rating: 4.5
November 25, 2015
3.5 Stars
I should start out with saying I thought the premise for this story was really good. I enjoyed the storyline and felt the characters were pretty well developed.
I found Emma to be really likeable. My heart broke for the things her and her twin brother Danny endured when they were young children. Emma tries her hardest to fight the attraction she feels toward her boss Trace but she doesn’t succeed and she ends up in a relationship with him.
I loved Trace from the very first time we were introduced to him in this book, he drew me in and i loved his and Emma’s relationship.
The only real problem I had was the editing, there were chunks of the story that just didn't make sense. I struggled with that part and at times felt like I was reading a different story to what it should have been. Had this been sorted I think this would have been a brilliant read.
I'm looking forward to reading Enduring, I just hope the editing is a little better.
I should start out with saying I thought the premise for this story was really good. I enjoyed the storyline and felt the characters were pretty well developed.
I found Emma to be really likeable. My heart broke for the things her and her twin brother Danny endured when they were young children. Emma tries her hardest to fight the attraction she feels toward her boss Trace but she doesn’t succeed and she ends up in a relationship with him.
I loved Trace from the very first time we were introduced to him in this book, he drew me in and i loved his and Emma’s relationship.
The only real problem I had was the editing, there were chunks of the story that just didn't make sense. I struggled with that part and at times felt like I was reading a different story to what it should have been. Had this been sorted I think this would have been a brilliant read.
I'm looking forward to reading Enduring, I just hope the editing is a little better.
December 5, 2016
WOW! What an amazing read! Surviving gave me an amazing and interesting ride. From the start up to the last, I was hooked. The story started on Emma and Danny when they are still small and the abuse they went through by their father. As the story goes, the twins got away from their abusive father's clutches. Both characters live their lives and the journey continues - concentrating on Emma's story. Emma met Trace, the CEO of Alexander Marketing Corporation, and things will never be the same again. Trace and Emma's chemistry is easily felt. I love how I easily felt in love with both of the characters. But as the story goes, Emma will be put into the danger from her past.
What I love about this book is that it's interesting and full of surprises! Love how I was easily got carried with the story. Loved it!
**This book ended with a cliffhanger tho so be sure to have book 2 too so you won't get anxious on what will happen next. :) **
What I love about this book is that it's interesting and full of surprises! Love how I was easily got carried with the story. Loved it!
**This book ended with a cliffhanger tho so be sure to have book 2 too so you won't get anxious on what will happen next. :) **
April 15, 2015
This is a story of a girl with a horrific childhood not only surviving, but excelled. Their are several descriptions of Emma's childhood that are very violent and not for the faint of heart, they are mixed throughout the book and play a big role in her adult life.
Trace is CEO of the company Emma just started working for, the chemistry is instant. Trace's actions are back and forth on whether or not he is into Emma or not.
Danny and Sam are Emma's brother and roommate both are likable characters .
I really got into this book and seeing a side of life that is not pretty. Michelle Leigh does a really good job of bringing it to life. What those kids had to deal with makes you want to save them and hurt anyone who did not help them.
This story leaves you with a cliffhanger ending
Some minor editing issues that are a bit annoying but did not detract from me enjoying the story.
Trace is CEO of the company Emma just started working for, the chemistry is instant. Trace's actions are back and forth on whether or not he is into Emma or not.
Danny and Sam are Emma's brother and roommate both are likable characters .
I really got into this book and seeing a side of life that is not pretty. Michelle Leigh does a really good job of bringing it to life. What those kids had to deal with makes you want to save them and hurt anyone who did not help them.
This story leaves you with a cliffhanger ending
Some minor editing issues that are a bit annoying but did not detract from me enjoying the story.
May 19, 2015
Surviving by Michelle Leigh is a romantic novel with few thriller elements and a generous helping of sacrifice, betrayal, friendship and more. The story begins with the childhood of Emma and her twin brother Danny and the hardships they underwent due to the earlier demise of their mother and the miserable time they have with their father.
Six years later, Emma joins as a temporary assistant in one of the most prestigious companies in the country, Alexander Marketing Corporation. She reports to the Head of the Department of Sales, Jack Stewart. This sets the story rolling and her life undergoes a change to begin a roller coaster ride.
Read more at http://chennaifocus.in/2015/05/19/boo...
Six years later, Emma joins as a temporary assistant in one of the most prestigious companies in the country, Alexander Marketing Corporation. She reports to the Head of the Department of Sales, Jack Stewart. This sets the story rolling and her life undergoes a change to begin a roller coaster ride.
Read more at http://chennaifocus.in/2015/05/19/boo...
October 22, 2016
This story is very emotional, a person that has has been in an abusive relationship might find it a little hard to read. However having said this it's a very good book! This is a suspense with romance too and when I thought I new what was going to know what was going to happen I was wrong, makes you keep reading but it ends in a cliffhanger.
Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews