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Trace + Olivia #4
Saving Tatum
Even tough girls need saving.
Jude Brooks is bad news. He’s the kind of guy that leaves behind a string of broken hearts and Tatum O’Connor is not about to be one of those girls, despite all of Jude’s advances. They have a past, and Tatum’s determined to make sure they don’t have a future.
Unfortunately for her, “no” isn’t a word in Jude’s vocabulary.
The more she backs away, the more he pushes.
But what if he pushes too far?
Tatum’s hiding a pain that no one sees and holding on to a hurt that may never heal. Letting Jude into her heart could shatter her completely—and what if she opens up to Jude and he can’t handle her baggage?
Love is never easy—especially when the person you’re falling for is the person you blame for the worst event in your life.
Love, heartache, and despair.
That’s the name of the game when you’re Saving Tatum.
Other books available in the Trace + Olivia Series
Finding Olivia
Chasing Olivia
Tempting Rowan
*this book can be read as a standalone*
Jude Brooks is bad news. He’s the kind of guy that leaves behind a string of broken hearts and Tatum O’Connor is not about to be one of those girls, despite all of Jude’s advances. They have a past, and Tatum’s determined to make sure they don’t have a future.
Unfortunately for her, “no” isn’t a word in Jude’s vocabulary.
The more she backs away, the more he pushes.
But what if he pushes too far?
Tatum’s hiding a pain that no one sees and holding on to a hurt that may never heal. Letting Jude into her heart could shatter her completely—and what if she opens up to Jude and he can’t handle her baggage?
Love is never easy—especially when the person you’re falling for is the person you blame for the worst event in your life.
Love, heartache, and despair.
That’s the name of the game when you’re Saving Tatum.
Other books available in the Trace + Olivia Series
Finding Olivia
Chasing Olivia
Tempting Rowan
*this book can be read as a standalone*
511 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 18, 2014
57 people are currently reading
1520 people want to read
About the author
Micalea Smeltzer
87 books6,714 followersMicalea Smeltzer is an author from Northern Virginia. Her two dogs, Ollie and Remy, are her constant companions. As a kidney transplant recipient she's dedicated to raising awareness around the effects of kidney disease, dialysis, and transplant as well as educating people on living donation. When she's not writing you can catch her with her nose buried in a book.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 87 reviews
September 22, 2014
Review Originally Posted at: Book Freak
PURCHASE IT ►►► AMAZON
Tatum’s life did a 180 the moment her brother died. Her father was always out and working, and her mother curled up into herself, no longer communicating to her or to anyone else. The only thing that’s normal in her life is school, her friends, and her hatred for Jude Brooks.
MEET MY NEW BOOK BOYFRIEND: JUDE BROOKS. A HOT MALE NURSE. Or soon to be that is (when he graduates). I love this guy – his outlook in life, his positivity and his passion for his work. Seldom you can find a nurse who has a great passion for his work, and most especially in helping others. He didn’t have a great childhood with his parents but he was raised well by his grandparents who made him into a man he is. Who wouldn’t fall in love with him? He can make you swoon with his words, his smile and his action… he’s the complete package.
Until when can Tatum hold that dreadful anger brewing inside of her? Her hatred for Jude is palpable, and I had the terrible urge to know the reason why. I mean – this guy is totally wonderful. He can be a man wh**e, a bit of a flirt – but he had a good head on his shoulder and even a blind man can see how much he adores Tatum.
He was doing everything to get her attention, and he was very positive, that one day he’s going to have her…. and as much as I love his positive outlook in life, with that kind of angry vibe coming off Tatum – I wonder how can he win her heart?
He is irresistible. You have to read to know him. I think he’s my favorite among the series. He’s really sweet without being cheesy, the kind of guy you wished your boyfriend is, he says things you wanted to hear without sounding forced or insincere. He does all the sweetest thing, and I wonder what could tick him off.
Because if Tatum is all anger, this guy seemed to be happy all the time. They complement each other. The moment all was cleared up, and Tatum was beginning to open up – I was so happy for the both of them, but most especially Jude. Both of them deserves to be happy, especially after what they have been through – their losses, their hurts, their pains, the issues with their parents. They seem different, but their baggage is almost the same. Life throws a lot of setbacks, it’s always up to you on how to deal with it.
Tatum is lucky not just to have Rowan, but to have Jude in her life. Finally, the moment her walls went down, she didn’t just had Jude. She had a family. There was Jerry, the reason why Jude became a nurse. The people from the nursing home, and not to mention some unexpected people who joined in the circle.
If it was easy to love Jude, it was quite a task to love Tatum. But she needs it the most, she had to be loved, to be taught on how to let go of her anger, learn to trust and to live. Jude was very patient with her, and it was greatly rewarded when Tatum starts to fall for him. Just as when you thought everything is perfect, fear creeps back to her, and all their hard work wasted. She ran away.
Will they have their happy ending?
I love how Tatum changed in this story. On how she finally managed to destroy the walls around her, and give her heart to the person she’s sure won’t break it. It took a lot of effort and hard work before it happened, but everything was worth it.
This series had just gotten better and better. Another MUST READ from Micalea Smeltzer. This time, she gave us a story filled with emotions, twists, surprises and great characters, I’m sure you can’t get enough of.
•Complimentary Copy was given in exchange for an honest review.•
More of my reviews at http://reviewsofabookmaniac.blogspot.com
September 22, 2017
5 Stars
UPDATE: Saving Tatum and the rest of the 'Trace + Olivia' series underwent a complete a make-over. The stories are newly edited and each book were given a new set of covers.
Read full review here: https://5171milesbookblog.wordpress.com/
Saving Tatum and the previous book, Tempting Rowan, are my favorite books in the "Trace + Olivia" series by Micalea Smeltzer. Although completely different regarding the plot, they still have some similarities. As the other books in this series, I read Saving Tatum about 2 years ago but I didn't know how much I missed both Jude and Tatum until I picked up the book again.
In the first few chapters the reader learns what makes Tatum so closed off and why she hates Judes so much. I like the fact that Micalea didn't drag this topic out until the very end of the book as a plot twist. She was upfront with it and the fact that I knew what was going on from the beginning made me root for Jude and Tatum even more - because Tatum, you're wrong!
When I first read about Jude in Tempting Rowan I couldn't believe what a player he is. But the more I got to know him in this book, the more I started to like and love him. It's safe to say that Jude is one of my all-time favorite book boyfriends.
Micalea has the gift to create wonderful characters and great stories. Although it was the second time reading this book, it never got boring.
Saving Tatum is the perfect conclusion to this four book series. I'm really sad it's over once more but another re-read will definitely be on my agenda again one day.
**********
Review to come!
UPDATE: Saving Tatum and the rest of the 'Trace + Olivia' series underwent a complete a make-over. The stories are newly edited and each book were given a new set of covers.
Read full review here: https://5171milesbookblog.wordpress.com/
Saving Tatum and the previous book, Tempting Rowan, are my favorite books in the "Trace + Olivia" series by Micalea Smeltzer. Although completely different regarding the plot, they still have some similarities. As the other books in this series, I read Saving Tatum about 2 years ago but I didn't know how much I missed both Jude and Tatum until I picked up the book again.
In the first few chapters the reader learns what makes Tatum so closed off and why she hates Judes so much. I like the fact that Micalea didn't drag this topic out until the very end of the book as a plot twist. She was upfront with it and the fact that I knew what was going on from the beginning made me root for Jude and Tatum even more - because Tatum, you're wrong!
When I first read about Jude in Tempting Rowan I couldn't believe what a player he is. But the more I got to know him in this book, the more I started to like and love him. It's safe to say that Jude is one of my all-time favorite book boyfriends.
Micalea has the gift to create wonderful characters and great stories. Although it was the second time reading this book, it never got boring.
Saving Tatum is the perfect conclusion to this four book series. I'm really sad it's over once more but another re-read will definitely be on my agenda again one day.
**********
Review to come!
October 22, 2015
I really enjoyed reading "Saving Tatum" and thought it was an excellent way to end the Trace + Olivia series by the ever so talented, Micalea Smeltzer. I loved her writing style and the storyline and characters she created with Jude and Tatum. I loved their personalities and chemistry together, and although they got off to a rocky start, they were able to overcome all of that and find each other in the end. They both had to deal with difficult situations with their family, among other things, but I was so glad they had each other through it all. Jude and Tatum were both strong-willed and stubborn - sometimes to a fault - but they were perfect for each other, and I couldn't have been happier with the outcome to their story. Jude's grandpa was a sweetheart, and I couldn't help but fall in love with him. I also loved finding out what happened to the other couples from previous books in the series. Some of the best parts of "Saving Tatum" were towards the end, and I couldn't have asked for a better conclusion. I am a sucker for epilogues, especially when they are well done like this one, and the ending completely made the book for me. I thoroughly enjoyed reading the entire Trace + Olivia series, and I am so glad that I gave it a chance!
Check out more of my reviews on my blog: https://perksofbeingabibliophile.word...
Check out more of my reviews on my blog: https://perksofbeingabibliophile.word...
September 1, 2014
LOVE THIS ONE! Micalea Smeltzer sure knows how to write an amazing story with perfectly complex and developed characters. I fell in love with Jude and Tatum and I didn't want the book to end.
September 21, 2014
WOW this book was just....WOW!!! This is by far my favorite book in this series and I'm so sad that it had to come to an end.
Tatum's life drastically changed when he was 15 and since then, she has been a living shell of herself. Tatum doesn't do relationships because in her heart she feels that everyone will always abandon her. No-one is aware of what she comes home to. She doesn't want pity and sadness – she feels enough of that for herself.
The only true friend Tatum has is Rowan. That is, until Jude Brooks tries to wiggle his way into her life. The funny thing is, Tatum hates Jude and vows to never allow him in her life. But when the heart has other plans, who are we to try to fight it?
Jude Brooks...a man-whore in every sense of the word. Jude would do anything to have Tatum and lo and behold, out of nowhere comes a great opportunity for him to have Tatum to himself. Jude takes this opportunity and runs with it, determined to make every single precious moment count so he can break down Tatum's walls. As Tatum spends more time with Jude, she starts to see him in a different way.
As we read we get to see a side of Jude that many are not aware of; sweet, kind, caring and loving. This breathtaking story had a bit of everything that makes a love story a LOVE STORY and Jude's grandfather, Jerry, was just what the story asked for.
Saving Tatum really is a beautiful story of learning to forgive others when they have hurt you or let you down, as well as learning to forgive yourself when you realize you have made a mistake in judgment. Thank you, Micalea Smeltzer, for a breathtakingly beautiful love story. ~ Kara, 5 Beautiful Stars
Tatum's life drastically changed when he was 15 and since then, she has been a living shell of herself. Tatum doesn't do relationships because in her heart she feels that everyone will always abandon her. No-one is aware of what she comes home to. She doesn't want pity and sadness – she feels enough of that for herself.
The only true friend Tatum has is Rowan. That is, until Jude Brooks tries to wiggle his way into her life. The funny thing is, Tatum hates Jude and vows to never allow him in her life. But when the heart has other plans, who are we to try to fight it?
Jude Brooks...a man-whore in every sense of the word. Jude would do anything to have Tatum and lo and behold, out of nowhere comes a great opportunity for him to have Tatum to himself. Jude takes this opportunity and runs with it, determined to make every single precious moment count so he can break down Tatum's walls. As Tatum spends more time with Jude, she starts to see him in a different way.
As we read we get to see a side of Jude that many are not aware of; sweet, kind, caring and loving. This breathtaking story had a bit of everything that makes a love story a LOVE STORY and Jude's grandfather, Jerry, was just what the story asked for.
Saving Tatum really is a beautiful story of learning to forgive others when they have hurt you or let you down, as well as learning to forgive yourself when you realize you have made a mistake in judgment. Thank you, Micalea Smeltzer, for a breathtakingly beautiful love story. ~ Kara, 5 Beautiful Stars
September 26, 2014
I’ve become addicted to the Trace+Olivia series. Saving Tatum is the last book and it was phenomenal.
Micalea has the stunning ability to portray her characters, warts and all, as flawed yet strong. You want to know them, be their friend, help them when they’re sad, hold them while they cry and smile and laugh when they find their happy.
Tatum’s an a$$. Truly so angry and closed off. So terrified to live. She’s just getting by, still so devastated after losing her brother at fifteen. She’s also hilarious, fighting so valiantly against feeling anything but hatred for Jude. Her inner monologue is brilliant. The emotional roller coaster she travels, her parents, school, Jude, all the while she is trying to come to grips with the truth about Graham’s death.
Oh Jude. He is so perfect for Tate. Not perfect though. He has a temper, he pushes all of Tate’s buttons. Love the question game, the bits we learn about the two of them bring them even more to life.
Snark- LOVE IT! Rowan and Jude gave it all right back to Tatum!
Can’t forget all the great moments with Trace and Olivia and their kids as well as Rowan and Trent. Love how Jude is with Tristan and Ivy.
Lots of tears-happy and sad-anger, laughs and so much heart. A perfect ending for a series I never wanted to stop!
Micalea has the stunning ability to portray her characters, warts and all, as flawed yet strong. You want to know them, be their friend, help them when they’re sad, hold them while they cry and smile and laugh when they find their happy.
Tatum’s an a$$. Truly so angry and closed off. So terrified to live. She’s just getting by, still so devastated after losing her brother at fifteen. She’s also hilarious, fighting so valiantly against feeling anything but hatred for Jude. Her inner monologue is brilliant. The emotional roller coaster she travels, her parents, school, Jude, all the while she is trying to come to grips with the truth about Graham’s death.
Oh Jude. He is so perfect for Tate. Not perfect though. He has a temper, he pushes all of Tate’s buttons. Love the question game, the bits we learn about the two of them bring them even more to life.
Snark- LOVE IT! Rowan and Jude gave it all right back to Tatum!
Can’t forget all the great moments with Trace and Olivia and their kids as well as Rowan and Trent. Love how Jude is with Tristan and Ivy.
Lots of tears-happy and sad-anger, laughs and so much heart. A perfect ending for a series I never wanted to stop!
September 16, 2017
Saving Tatum is the fourth and final book in the Trace + Olivia Series by Micaela Smeltzer.
This book can easily be read as a standalone, there are only a few cross- over.
Jude Brooks is bad news. He´s a bad boy with a certain reputation.
Tatum O´Connor doesn´t want to be a notch at his belt.
He wants her, she refuses. He pushes, she backs away.
Love is never easy and especially not for these two people.
Saving Tatum is a beautiful love story, full of twists and turns. Meet old friends and new acquaintances.
I love the writing, the characters and the words. I read the book in one sitting, I couldn´t put it down.
I give 5 stars. Thank you, Micaela Smeltzer.
This book can easily be read as a standalone, there are only a few cross- over.
Jude Brooks is bad news. He´s a bad boy with a certain reputation.
Tatum O´Connor doesn´t want to be a notch at his belt.
He wants her, she refuses. He pushes, she backs away.
Love is never easy and especially not for these two people.
Saving Tatum is a beautiful love story, full of twists and turns. Meet old friends and new acquaintances.
I love the writing, the characters and the words. I read the book in one sitting, I couldn´t put it down.
I give 5 stars. Thank you, Micaela Smeltzer.
September 25, 2014
✯✯5 Second Chance Stars!!✯✯
Micalea Smeltzer has done it to me again! I got the privilege of beta reading this as well as other books from Micalea. And, again I felt useless because there wasn't anything I didn't like about this book. The only thing I didn't I didn't like was it's the last book in the Trace & Olivia Series . That absolutely destroys me. It's one of my favorite series. With that being said let me come back to Tatum & Jude.
Tatum had the perfect life. Until her brother died. Then, her mother checked out mentally. She was a shell. It's like she didn't exist. Her father started working so much that he was never home. Tatum found herself all alone. There was 1 person she held responsible for all this.. Jude Brooks. She hated him with everything she had and then some.
Fast forward a few years and now she's in her last year of college. You remember her best friend Rowan. Yup, I still love her!! Well, she's going to be a nurse. Tatum asks Rowan if she can shadow her for her essay. Well, Rowan can't do it. But, luckily for Tatum, Jude jumps at the chance to help her. Even though she's totally 110% against it, Jude reminds her she doesn't really have another option.
Now, we only get Tatum's POV. Which stinks because I'd love to get into Jude's head. Even though we don't, Micalea still did an excellent job at making you feel what he was feeling. Jude can not for the life of him figure out why Tatum hates him. His mission is by the time she finishes shadowing him she'll like him.
To do that she must drive with him to the nursing home. And, everyday they must ask each other 1 question. When I tell you some of the questions Jude would ask were so random and off the wall. But, Jude literally just wanted to know everything about Tatum that he could get.
Tatum is not prepared for what she was about to get. Jude is known for being a man-whore. But, when Jude is with his patients he's still his crazy self yes. But, the way he is with them is unlike anything she was prepared for. Every single one of them looked forward to him coming. He would spend extra time with every single one of them talking sports, TV you name it.It totally blows her mind!
Over the next few weeks Jude starts getting to Tatum. He's there every time she needs him. Tatum finally realizes he's not the person she thought he was all this time. Which confuses her even more. It's like everything and all the pain she went through & felt were all wrong. How did she let herself end up this way. Not that it was hard to do with the home life she had.
She learns Jude home life was crappy too. With the exception of his grandparents. Now, he only has his grandfather left. It's his main reason for doing what he does. His grandfather has slight Alzheimer's and one day he knows who Jude is. The next he think he's Jude father. Loosing his grandfather is not something he's willing to think about. Tatum falls in love with Jude's grandfather.
Like I said before both have had not so good family lives. Now, both of them are happy. Jude finally got the girl he's been in love with since forever. Tatum for the first time in forever is living her life. Spending time with Rowan & Trent as well as Jude and his grandfather. She is actually alive for the 1st time in awhile.
Then, a complete misunderstanding hit and Tatum is running for the hills. Jude is beyond himself. Rowan thinks Tatum is being stupid. Now, Tatum must make up her mind. Stay running and miserable. Or go and get her man. But, will he forgive her that easily.
This is a book that if you haven't read it yet, then you're crazy to have waited so long!! I have loved this whole series. This one was no different. Now, in true Micalea fashion with the men in this series have a candy of choice. Jude was no different except his candy is one of my favorites Gummy Bears. Now, I swear I never ever ever thought I'd say this. But, it's true. Jude Brooks has beaten out The Wentworth brothers!!! Yes, I know. But, it's true. We did still get them, Olivia & Rowan too. Which was nice because we got a glimpse of them. I'm stoked all of them are all in good places in their lives. I'm dying to read whatever Micalea puts out next
Micalea Smeltzer has done it to me again! I got the privilege of beta reading this as well as other books from Micalea. And, again I felt useless because there wasn't anything I didn't like about this book. The only thing I didn't I didn't like was it's the last book in the Trace & Olivia Series . That absolutely destroys me. It's one of my favorite series. With that being said let me come back to Tatum & Jude.
Tatum had the perfect life. Until her brother died. Then, her mother checked out mentally. She was a shell. It's like she didn't exist. Her father started working so much that he was never home. Tatum found herself all alone. There was 1 person she held responsible for all this.. Jude Brooks. She hated him with everything she had and then some.
Fast forward a few years and now she's in her last year of college. You remember her best friend Rowan. Yup, I still love her!! Well, she's going to be a nurse. Tatum asks Rowan if she can shadow her for her essay. Well, Rowan can't do it. But, luckily for Tatum, Jude jumps at the chance to help her. Even though she's totally 110% against it, Jude reminds her she doesn't really have another option.
Now, we only get Tatum's POV. Which stinks because I'd love to get into Jude's head. Even though we don't, Micalea still did an excellent job at making you feel what he was feeling. Jude can not for the life of him figure out why Tatum hates him. His mission is by the time she finishes shadowing him she'll like him.
To do that she must drive with him to the nursing home. And, everyday they must ask each other 1 question. When I tell you some of the questions Jude would ask were so random and off the wall. But, Jude literally just wanted to know everything about Tatum that he could get.
Tatum is not prepared for what she was about to get. Jude is known for being a man-whore. But, when Jude is with his patients he's still his crazy self yes. But, the way he is with them is unlike anything she was prepared for. Every single one of them looked forward to him coming. He would spend extra time with every single one of them talking sports, TV you name it.It totally blows her mind!
Over the next few weeks Jude starts getting to Tatum. He's there every time she needs him. Tatum finally realizes he's not the person she thought he was all this time. Which confuses her even more. It's like everything and all the pain she went through & felt were all wrong. How did she let herself end up this way. Not that it was hard to do with the home life she had.
She learns Jude home life was crappy too. With the exception of his grandparents. Now, he only has his grandfather left. It's his main reason for doing what he does. His grandfather has slight Alzheimer's and one day he knows who Jude is. The next he think he's Jude father. Loosing his grandfather is not something he's willing to think about. Tatum falls in love with Jude's grandfather.
Like I said before both have had not so good family lives. Now, both of them are happy. Jude finally got the girl he's been in love with since forever. Tatum for the first time in forever is living her life. Spending time with Rowan & Trent as well as Jude and his grandfather. She is actually alive for the 1st time in awhile.
Then, a complete misunderstanding hit and Tatum is running for the hills. Jude is beyond himself. Rowan thinks Tatum is being stupid. Now, Tatum must make up her mind. Stay running and miserable. Or go and get her man. But, will he forgive her that easily.
This is a book that if you haven't read it yet, then you're crazy to have waited so long!! I have loved this whole series. This one was no different. Now, in true Micalea fashion with the men in this series have a candy of choice. Jude was no different except his candy is one of my favorites Gummy Bears. Now, I swear I never ever ever thought I'd say this. But, it's true. Jude Brooks has beaten out The Wentworth brothers!!! Yes, I know. But, it's true. We did still get them, Olivia & Rowan too. Which was nice because we got a glimpse of them. I'm stoked all of them are all in good places in their lives. I'm dying to read whatever Micalea puts out next
September 23, 2014
I hadn’t been looking for the one, or anyone for that matter, but love doesn’t wait till you think you’re ready. It comes along when you least expect it and turns your life upside down. It sends you on a journey of epic proportions and changes the course of your life. It completes you.
I was really, really excited when I heard about this book from the author! I then got the opportunity to beta read it, and of course, I said yes! I've beta read a few of this author's other books and couldn't wait to sink my teeth into this one! This book really was amazing! I just loved everything about it! I beta read it over several months, but the author wrote this book super fast, so I was never begging her for more lol! The plot of this book had beautiful moments, sad moments and moments of realisation for the main character! There was so much emotion in it too! My emotions were all over the place too when I was reading it lol! The plot developed at the perfect pace and I was always desperate to read on and see how things were going to progress! I just loved everything about the plot of this book, and I loved that it wasn't straightforward and had some twist and turns! I was hooked by it! The characters were amazing! Tatum was the main female character and she had been through, and then went through, so much in this book! She was such a confused character at the beginning of this book and she was dealing with a lot of family issues! I felt so sorry for her! She became a much stronger character as this book progressed though, which made me really happy! I also loved that Tatum didn't give up on her parents, but that she stood up to them in this book when she needed too! She came a long way in this book! Jude was the love interest of Tatum and he was so freaking hot! Jude was just the sweetest and most persistent guy ever! He though of everything and he was always so sweet and gentle with Tatum! He was also very witty, so some of the things he said made me laugh! Jude had been through a lot as well, which made me heart go out to him! He and Tatum were both kind of broken, but together they made each other whole, which is how I would describe their relationship! I have to admit that I was kinda expecting this book to be written from both Tatum and Jude's point of view, but it was actually only written from Tatum's! This made me a little upset, but I'm hoping the author will reveal a few chapters from Jude's point of views as extras or something like that! I loved that characters from the other books in this series made appearances in this book too! It was amazing to see how their relationships had progressed! The ending of this book was so beautiful! I smiled like an idiot while reading it! I'm really sad that this book is the last book in this series! I've loved this series so much, so I'm sad to see it come to an end! The cover for this book is absolutely stunning! I started beta reading it when it didn't have a cover, so I had my own idea about how the cover could possibly look! I have to say that the cover is even better than what I imagined! The models are perfect for the characters of Jude and Tatum and I love everything about the design! Big thank you to Micalea for allowing me to beta read Saving Tatum and to Stephanie's Book Reports for having me on the Blog Tour!
I was really, really excited when I heard about this book from the author! I then got the opportunity to beta read it, and of course, I said yes! I've beta read a few of this author's other books and couldn't wait to sink my teeth into this one! This book really was amazing! I just loved everything about it! I beta read it over several months, but the author wrote this book super fast, so I was never begging her for more lol! The plot of this book had beautiful moments, sad moments and moments of realisation for the main character! There was so much emotion in it too! My emotions were all over the place too when I was reading it lol! The plot developed at the perfect pace and I was always desperate to read on and see how things were going to progress! I just loved everything about the plot of this book, and I loved that it wasn't straightforward and had some twist and turns! I was hooked by it! The characters were amazing! Tatum was the main female character and she had been through, and then went through, so much in this book! She was such a confused character at the beginning of this book and she was dealing with a lot of family issues! I felt so sorry for her! She became a much stronger character as this book progressed though, which made me really happy! I also loved that Tatum didn't give up on her parents, but that she stood up to them in this book when she needed too! She came a long way in this book! Jude was the love interest of Tatum and he was so freaking hot! Jude was just the sweetest and most persistent guy ever! He though of everything and he was always so sweet and gentle with Tatum! He was also very witty, so some of the things he said made me laugh! Jude had been through a lot as well, which made me heart go out to him! He and Tatum were both kind of broken, but together they made each other whole, which is how I would describe their relationship! I have to admit that I was kinda expecting this book to be written from both Tatum and Jude's point of view, but it was actually only written from Tatum's! This made me a little upset, but I'm hoping the author will reveal a few chapters from Jude's point of views as extras or something like that! I loved that characters from the other books in this series made appearances in this book too! It was amazing to see how their relationships had progressed! The ending of this book was so beautiful! I smiled like an idiot while reading it! I'm really sad that this book is the last book in this series! I've loved this series so much, so I'm sad to see it come to an end! The cover for this book is absolutely stunning! I started beta reading it when it didn't have a cover, so I had my own idea about how the cover could possibly look! I have to say that the cover is even better than what I imagined! The models are perfect for the characters of Jude and Tatum and I love everything about the design! Big thank you to Micalea for allowing me to beta read Saving Tatum and to Stephanie's Book Reports for having me on the Blog Tour!
September 30, 2014
"Every day and what it brings is a mystery, a gift to be unwrapped and treasured. All we can do is find happiness in the little things and peace in the chaos."
Saving Tatum by Micalea Smeltzer is the next book in the Trace & Olivia Series. The readers first met Tatum in the book Tempting Rowan, and now Micalea Smeltzer gives them her story, one of heartache, grief, anger and eventually acceptance and love. The emotions in this book jump off of the page and smack the reader in the face; sometimes making you laugh and other times making you sigh. This was a 3.5 star read for me and I recommend this incredible series to everyone, it is definitely one of my top series of all time!
Tatum closed herself off to the world after her brother Graham died during his senior year in high-school and she blamed their classmate Jude for his death all of this time. For the last several years she has focused on school and her hate for Jude, never letting anyone get close enough to see the truth; that she was broken and unsure of how to fix herself or her life. That is until Jude worms his way in one silly question at a time while she shadows him for her last journalism paper. Jude bets Tatum, or Tater Tot as he calls her, that by the time her paper is done, that she will believe he is a good guy and she won't hate him anymore. She doesn't believe him, thinking that nothing could end the hate that she has in her heart, that not hating him would mean she didn't feel for her brother's death any longer, that her life of solitude wasn't a way to live. And Jude shows her just that.
" No matter how bad your day is, or what kind of horrible shit you go through, loving someone completes you."
Tatum slowly lets Jude into her life, and he starts to make her wall crumble, one crack at a time. She sees a different side of him and how he appreciates the beauty in even the simplest things, like a sunset. She falls for him a little bit at a time, while watching him be so kind and caring with every patient in the nursing home, when he brings her twizzlers because they are her favorite, how he loves his Pap and worries for him. But Tate can't give herself fully to Jude because she hasn't accepted the things in her life that she refuses to see for what they really are and not how she remembers them to be. It is Jude who helps her find her way, who stands by her when her father is out of control, who loves her no matter what and knows everything about her, things that she didn't even know that he had paid attention to. And that is when she fell in love with him. Although their start was rocky and one-sided at first, the love that blooms between them is real. Although their relationship has its up and downs; its unwavering. A beautiful love story.
"I hadn't been looking for the one, or anyone for that matter, but love doesn't wait till you think you're ready. It comes along when you least expect it and turns your life upside down. It sends you on a journey of epic proportions and changes the course of your life. It completes you."
Saving Tatum by Micalea Smeltzer is the next book in the Trace & Olivia Series. The readers first met Tatum in the book Tempting Rowan, and now Micalea Smeltzer gives them her story, one of heartache, grief, anger and eventually acceptance and love. The emotions in this book jump off of the page and smack the reader in the face; sometimes making you laugh and other times making you sigh. This was a 3.5 star read for me and I recommend this incredible series to everyone, it is definitely one of my top series of all time!
Tatum closed herself off to the world after her brother Graham died during his senior year in high-school and she blamed their classmate Jude for his death all of this time. For the last several years she has focused on school and her hate for Jude, never letting anyone get close enough to see the truth; that she was broken and unsure of how to fix herself or her life. That is until Jude worms his way in one silly question at a time while she shadows him for her last journalism paper. Jude bets Tatum, or Tater Tot as he calls her, that by the time her paper is done, that she will believe he is a good guy and she won't hate him anymore. She doesn't believe him, thinking that nothing could end the hate that she has in her heart, that not hating him would mean she didn't feel for her brother's death any longer, that her life of solitude wasn't a way to live. And Jude shows her just that.
" No matter how bad your day is, or what kind of horrible shit you go through, loving someone completes you."
Tatum slowly lets Jude into her life, and he starts to make her wall crumble, one crack at a time. She sees a different side of him and how he appreciates the beauty in even the simplest things, like a sunset. She falls for him a little bit at a time, while watching him be so kind and caring with every patient in the nursing home, when he brings her twizzlers because they are her favorite, how he loves his Pap and worries for him. But Tate can't give herself fully to Jude because she hasn't accepted the things in her life that she refuses to see for what they really are and not how she remembers them to be. It is Jude who helps her find her way, who stands by her when her father is out of control, who loves her no matter what and knows everything about her, things that she didn't even know that he had paid attention to. And that is when she fell in love with him. Although their start was rocky and one-sided at first, the love that blooms between them is real. Although their relationship has its up and downs; its unwavering. A beautiful love story.
"I hadn't been looking for the one, or anyone for that matter, but love doesn't wait till you think you're ready. It comes along when you least expect it and turns your life upside down. It sends you on a journey of epic proportions and changes the course of your life. It completes you."
September 22, 2014
I love this series, so much that I didn't know if I was going to love the fact that the main focus of the series is Trace and Olivia and this was not them. I was able to get over that very fast as I love Jude BIG TIME. He is one that I think I am going to have to add to my BBF list. He is that hot and lovable and downright HOT. Who could not love him. Tatum is just as loveable. At first I was not sure how I felt about her, but the more that I got to know her the more that she grew on me and at the end I was loving her just as much as Olivia in the first 2 books in the series.
Tatum does not have the life that any college student wants. Most students go out and party and have a good time. Tatum's brother died when she was a sophmore in high school and her family life went down from there. Her dad is never home and her mom is pretty much in a daze of confusion. Tatum blames Jude for the accident because right before the accident, he slept with her brother's girlfriend and she thinks that is what drove her brother over the edge.
Jude is just pretty much a man whore. He has slept his way through the campus, but has always had feelings for Tatum since high school. Tatum hates him, but at the same time needs his help to her final project. Jude is determined that he is going to get Tatum to see him for who he is an in turn love her the way that she deserves to be loved.
I love the way that Jude just adores Tatum. I hate that she has had the life that she has, but the whole way you are rooting for her to finally see Jude for what he is. Along the way, she see's that things are not what they seem and that Jude is not really the reason for her brothers death. In typical Micalea fashion, she has us rooting for the couple the whole time. I am sad that this series is over, but at the same time I am so happy that things happened the way that they did and that everyone has the happy every after that they deserve.
Tatum does not have the life that any college student wants. Most students go out and party and have a good time. Tatum's brother died when she was a sophmore in high school and her family life went down from there. Her dad is never home and her mom is pretty much in a daze of confusion. Tatum blames Jude for the accident because right before the accident, he slept with her brother's girlfriend and she thinks that is what drove her brother over the edge.
Jude is just pretty much a man whore. He has slept his way through the campus, but has always had feelings for Tatum since high school. Tatum hates him, but at the same time needs his help to her final project. Jude is determined that he is going to get Tatum to see him for who he is an in turn love her the way that she deserves to be loved.
I love the way that Jude just adores Tatum. I hate that she has had the life that she has, but the whole way you are rooting for her to finally see Jude for what he is. Along the way, she see's that things are not what they seem and that Jude is not really the reason for her brothers death. In typical Micalea fashion, she has us rooting for the couple the whole time. I am sad that this series is over, but at the same time I am so happy that things happened the way that they did and that everyone has the happy every after that they deserve.
September 21, 2014
Micalea Smeltzer has an inimitable talent for exposing the raw feeling of any given situation. Each and every story she has written stirs up a storm of emotions that, more often than not, demand to be felt. Saving Tatum is the final piece of the series that began with Trace and Olivia and it was, hands down, the perfect last addition to this phenomenal collection.
Tatum’s story is tragic. Micalea had me crying from the very first page of this book and I knew Tatum’s story was going to wreck me. From the moment her story began, I connected to Tate. I felt her pain deep in my heart and my mind worked furiously to find her happily ever after. She had no idea how beautiful and strong she was and that made her someone I couldn’t help but love and root for. Jude has his own sad tale, but he chooses to live his life in the sunshine. He made me laugh more times than I could count over the course of his journey. He was witty, sexy, sometimes sweet, and absolutely unrelenting in his pursuit of Tate and that made my heart, his.
Together, Jude and Tate undeniably sparkled. Their chemistry and compatibility saturated this book with hope, joy and the perfect amount of steam. Jude brought out the snarky, playful Tatum, while Tate allowed Jude to openly experience his emotions. From the moment this story took off running, I was sprinting to keep up with it. I always needed more and I was happy to let Micalea take me on a crazy ride with each challenge to Jude and Tatum’s relationship. I adored seeing Trace, Olivia, Rowan and Trent throughout this story too. Once again, Micalea has written a heart wrenching, raw, and unquestionably stunning story of love and healing.
Tatum’s story is tragic. Micalea had me crying from the very first page of this book and I knew Tatum’s story was going to wreck me. From the moment her story began, I connected to Tate. I felt her pain deep in my heart and my mind worked furiously to find her happily ever after. She had no idea how beautiful and strong she was and that made her someone I couldn’t help but love and root for. Jude has his own sad tale, but he chooses to live his life in the sunshine. He made me laugh more times than I could count over the course of his journey. He was witty, sexy, sometimes sweet, and absolutely unrelenting in his pursuit of Tate and that made my heart, his.
Together, Jude and Tate undeniably sparkled. Their chemistry and compatibility saturated this book with hope, joy and the perfect amount of steam. Jude brought out the snarky, playful Tatum, while Tate allowed Jude to openly experience his emotions. From the moment this story took off running, I was sprinting to keep up with it. I always needed more and I was happy to let Micalea take me on a crazy ride with each challenge to Jude and Tatum’s relationship. I adored seeing Trace, Olivia, Rowan and Trent throughout this story too. Once again, Micalea has written a heart wrenching, raw, and unquestionably stunning story of love and healing.
August 13, 2016
I loved Saving Tatum! Once again, Micalea wrote a story and characters that are great. Tatum had some bad stuff happened to her while growing up and it seemed that she blamed one person, Jude. However, it seemed that Jude always had a soft spot for her. So in the beginning, there is a love-hate relationship between the two. Tatum didn't want to get close to him but with them working together on a paper for her class, it seems that the hardness for Jude was starting to fade. She soon discovered that the Jude she sees is completely different from the one she begins to know. As the story progresses, their relationship does too and we hope that it all works out in the end. Tatum was tough but a vulnerable heroine. She didn't want to show her real self because she didn't want to seem weak especially with what happened to her brother. But Jude brought her out of self and she was able to become "herself" again. Oh Jude! He was a total sweetheart. You couldn't deny the love and affection that he had for Tatum. I loved that he was able to break down her defenses. There is so much more to Jude. I didn't think that any guy would give the Wentworth brothers-Trace and Trent, especially Trace-a run for their money but Jude definitely is up there. I loved this whole story and this series! I'm so sad that it has come to end. But it is definitely one I would re-read whenever I need something good to read. If you're a fan of this series, then you will love this book as well!
September 3, 2014
Jude is just a plain old tease at times, "he jumped on the one beside me and bounced up and down a few times before settling. "Hey, roomie," he grinned. "I don't sleep with any clothes on, in case you were wondering," he waggled his brows." He loves to tease Tatum but honestly I think that girl enjoys it, "I felt your eyes," he continued. "You were totally staring. It's okay, look all you want. I know i'm quite the feast for your eyes." Hot scenes are always in Micalea's books:
"What?" He growled, his voice thick with sleep. He was kind of delicious sounding first thing in the morning. "You're squishing me and there's something poking me."
"He's just happy to see you," he chuckled. "I'm happy to see you too. You're pretty in the mornings. I was a bit afraid you might look monstrous," he said as he released me and propped his head up to look at me.
The reaction Tatum had about a certain part of Jude made me pee myself, "I ran my hand up and down his hard length. Holy hell. He was huge. There was no way that was fitting inside me, ever. And by that I meant his c***." Jude he's just special that's the only way to describe him, "I think," Jude put a hand to his chest, "that I should be your children's godfather, since Tater Tot here refuses to let me have Jude Jr. for a few more years." The experiences these characters have you forget how old they really are they act more maturely than I do and I'm older than them.
July 23, 2015
WOW! Did not expect the prologue to start as it did for this book, the 4th in the Trace & Olivia series. That answers so many questions about Tatum with regards to the last book and the things we saw from her. Just WOW. So why exactly does Tatum hate Jude so much? That is not answered in the prologue, but her resentment of being at home is. Will Tatum ever give in to Jude and his advances? Can he charm her into liking him instead of hating him? What happens the first time she ends up as a 3rd wheel going to a party with Trent and Rowan at Jude's house? We already know what his favorite candy is, and hers, but what does he do to the candy that he likes so much for the party? You will have to read it and find out. Can Tatum's mind be changed by actually letting some people in on her 'dirty little secrets' and what has kept her from getting close to anyone? What happens at the end of Spring Break with her parents? So many things happen in this book, there are some laughs, some tears, and some aww moments as well as YES! cheers to be had.
RECEIVED THIS BOOK AS A GIFT FOR A FAIR/HONEST REVIEW and REVIEWER FOR Bloggin' With M.Brennan.
RECEIVED THIS BOOK AS A GIFT FOR A FAIR/HONEST REVIEW and REVIEWER FOR Bloggin' With M.Brennan.
September 22, 2017
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Read more of my reviews at Whoo Gives A Hoot
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I generously received this ARC from Give Me Books in exchange for an honest review...
So turns out that I NEVER read this book when it first released...I totally meant to but it just seemed to slip my mind time and time again, but I can finally say I redeemed that! Micalea Smeltzer has indeed saved the best for last. Oh my goodness I am in love with Tatum and Jude's story and I absolutely adored the journey that readers are taken on throughout this read. I could not put this story down and now I am left with sadness because the Trace + Olivia series is over, but she has continued to surprise readers as her writing career has grown! I seriously cannot help but recommend any and all of her phenomenal stories. She is a truly brilliant writer who will capture you wholeheartedly and will leave you in pieces at the very end!
I generously received this ARC from Give Me Books in exchange for an honest review...
So turns out that I NEVER read this book when it first released...I totally meant to but it just seemed to slip my mind time and time again, but I can finally say I redeemed that! Micalea Smeltzer has indeed saved the best for last. Oh my goodness I am in love with Tatum and Jude's story and I absolutely adored the journey that readers are taken on throughout this read. I could not put this story down and now I am left with sadness because the Trace + Olivia series is over, but she has continued to surprise readers as her writing career has grown! I seriously cannot help but recommend any and all of her phenomenal stories. She is a truly brilliant writer who will capture you wholeheartedly and will leave you in pieces at the very end!
September 21, 2014
I give this book five stars I loved the charetors. This wasn't the typical boy meets girl they fall in love story.
Tatum hated Jude she blamed him for her brothers death now 7 years on the hate is still there but now she needs his help with a paper for her exam. After seeing Jude with his patients she starts to see a different side to him and slowly she saving herself she them gets to meet the man behind his reason and it then that she falls for him but is scared to admit her feelings for him.
She too scared to admit that she loves him and he's already in love with her but hasn't told her yet but one night changes everything after a misunderstand Tatums world comes crashing down on her 12 days went by before she finally comes round and admitted her feelings she just hoped Jude felt the same.
Tatum hated Jude she blamed him for her brothers death now 7 years on the hate is still there but now she needs his help with a paper for her exam. After seeing Jude with his patients she starts to see a different side to him and slowly she saving herself she them gets to meet the man behind his reason and it then that she falls for him but is scared to admit her feelings for him.
She too scared to admit that she loves him and he's already in love with her but hasn't told her yet but one night changes everything after a misunderstand Tatums world comes crashing down on her 12 days went by before she finally comes round and admitted her feelings she just hoped Jude felt the same.
September 8, 2014
Love, love, LOVE! I have loved every Trace + Olivia book, but Saving Tatum is my favorite. Micalea writes characters that are so easy to love. I can't tell you how she does it exactly, but she has this amazing way of writing them so that you feel like they are friends. I'm sad to know this is the end of the series, but I don't think she could have written it better.
July 13, 2015
I don't even know how to put this book in words. I love micalea smeltzer and I feel like every time I read one of her books it makes my day a million times better!! This book is amazing!! It just is. Micalea smeltzer is one of my most favorite authors of all time!! Please if you haven't read any books by her you need to ASAP!!!
October 17, 2014
I have loved this whole series and this book is no exception. I really liked Tate and Jude from Tempting Rowan and was excited they were going to get their own book. Micalea did not disappoint! It helped explain so much about each character to learn so much more about their backgrounds and life. I highly recommend all 4 books. I'm sad that this will be the last.
January 24, 2016
5 out of 5 Stars
I loved Saving Tatum! I am so sad that this series is over but Saving Tatum was a great and enjoyable ending. I loved Jude and Tatum! I also, loved that Micalea had Lucinda's Bakery which is in her Outsider Series!
I loved Saving Tatum! I am so sad that this series is over but Saving Tatum was a great and enjoyable ending. I loved Jude and Tatum! I also, loved that Micalea had Lucinda's Bakery which is in her Outsider Series!
October 22, 2014
Great series end
So sad to see the see this series end. But glad everyone was got to get their story told. I enjoyed that each story in the series was different and not repeat retelling of each.
So sad to see the see this series end. But glad everyone was got to get their story told. I enjoyed that each story in the series was different and not repeat retelling of each.
September 21, 2014
i can't believe this is end of the series i am in love with series .This is one of the best series i have ever read i will miss every character..
September 18, 2014
LOVED IT! I love Jude and Tate and ahhhhhhhhh :D
September 27, 2014
I loved this book! Jude is amazing and perfect.
September 22, 2014
Micalea Smeltzer never disappoints! This book was amazing just like all the rest!
September 20, 2014
Couldn't finish the book, it had no story and the characters just feel short
September 15, 2014
4.5 Stars
Review coming soon
Review coming soon
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