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Only Love #1
Only Love
Aubrey
He's not what I expected. He's just... so much more than I imagined he'd be. Cops around here aren't exactly honorable, and yet, I found myself trusting the one in my own backyard, quite literally the floor above me. Still, my instincts have been wrong before. My heart tells me to let him in completely, to love him completely.
But I learned to stop following my heart a long time ago.
Adam
She's locked up tight and won't let go. A single mother, she's bound by the struggles she hides from the world around her. These trials do nothing but burden her, test her in the worst possible way.
But I have struggles of my own, secrets, and with their depth, they don't just test me. They consume me and have the capability of breaking me completely, of breaking us completely.
Aubrey & Adam
Only love will help us. Only love will save us.
He's not what I expected. He's just... so much more than I imagined he'd be. Cops around here aren't exactly honorable, and yet, I found myself trusting the one in my own backyard, quite literally the floor above me. Still, my instincts have been wrong before. My heart tells me to let him in completely, to love him completely.
But I learned to stop following my heart a long time ago.
Adam
She's locked up tight and won't let go. A single mother, she's bound by the struggles she hides from the world around her. These trials do nothing but burden her, test her in the worst possible way.
But I have struggles of my own, secrets, and with their depth, they don't just test me. They consume me and have the capability of breaking me completely, of breaking us completely.
Aubrey & Adam
Only love will help us. Only love will save us.
311 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 18, 2014
45 people are currently reading
503 people want to read
About the author
Victoria H. Smith
51 books515 followersVictoria H. Smith has a Bachelor’s Degree in Political Science. She puts it to good use writing romance all day. She resides in the Midwest with her Macbook on her lap and a cornfield to her right. She often draws inspiration for her stories from her own life experiences, and the characters she writes give her an earful about it.
In her free time, she enjoys extreme couponing, reading, watching Scandal, and general geekery in the form of Sherlock and DC Comics. She’s a bestselling author and the 2014 Swirl Award winner for Best New Adult Romance, as well as the recipient of the 2015 AMB Ovation Award for her new adult romance FOUND BY YOU. She writes both new adult and adult fiction in many genres, but mainly focuses in contemporary interracial and multicultural romances.
To be notified about my latest releases, sign up for my newsletter! - http://eepurl.com/MxQMj
In her free time, she enjoys extreme couponing, reading, watching Scandal, and general geekery in the form of Sherlock and DC Comics. She’s a bestselling author and the 2014 Swirl Award winner for Best New Adult Romance, as well as the recipient of the 2015 AMB Ovation Award for her new adult romance FOUND BY YOU. She writes both new adult and adult fiction in many genres, but mainly focuses in contemporary interracial and multicultural romances.
To be notified about my latest releases, sign up for my newsletter! - http://eepurl.com/MxQMj
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
July 10, 2015
1 star. DNF @35%. Review posted January 11, 2015. If you don't like to ogle Charlie then stop right here.
One of the most boring books EVER. If you ask yourself every other page how long you will put up with a book then something is very wrong and it's best to throw in the towel…which I did eventually. In hindsight I should have abandoned Only Love at 5%. The writing and the characters in general didn't appeal to me. As it was, they were totally bland and boring. Hmm…where have I heard that before?
The scene that led to their first kiss was written awkwardly and felt very stilted. Clumsy. Embarrassing. Wooden. Stiff. I'll leave it to you to pick an appropriate word. Thinking about their first sex scene made me cringe. Anyway, I didn't even make it that far, so it's pretty pointless to ponder about them fumbling their clumsily-stiffly selves (pun intended?) through the sheets.
He took another step and now we were toe to toe. My fingers slipped off the knob when he gently took possession of that hand, too. It didn't matter, though. At this point, leaving him here alone no longer seemed like the next action I wanted to take anyway. As if reading my mind, Adam erased the last few inches of space that were no longer welcome between us. His chest pressed against mine when our lips met, and I inhaled a breath so long and deep that I became lightheaded. Or maybe that was just because of him. His lips were soft and warm just like I'd imagined they were. I somehow appreciated the hint of chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry that flavored our kiss more now, tasting them on his lips instead of on a spoon. He was right; this was so much more suitable dessert.
(…)
Yeah, gimme a spoon please. Not sure what I'm going to do with it, though. Geez.
My mouth parted in submission, welcoming Adam's tongue inside when he took our kiss to a deeper level of intimacy. My knees went weak and I felt his heart racing through his shirt.
Beware, his heart will burst through his body shortly.
His fingers squeezed mine tighter as he leaned into me, sandwiching me between hims nd the wall, which was just as firm and unyielding as his body.
(…)
I was so entranced I didn't even realize my hands were freed from Adam's grasp until I felt his inching up my torso, exploring me on top of my clothes. With him so close, I felt like he was everywhere--all over me. Maybe he was. And maybe I loved it.
His palms stopped just beneath my breasts and my pulse accelerated. The feel of his thumbs brushing slowly over my nipples made them tighten, leaving me resentful of the shirt and bra keeping my skin from connecting with Adam's. The frustrated groan that escaped his throat led me to believe he had the same thought.
Dear Charlie,
#SorryAmNotSorryAtAll for stressing you so much.
I just needed your gorgeous, head-to-toe perfection to comfort my bruised reader's soul.
Thank you for your compassion. I appreciate it very much.
See you next time!
Best,
Baba
One of the most boring books EVER. If you ask yourself every other page how long you will put up with a book then something is very wrong and it's best to throw in the towel…which I did eventually. In hindsight I should have abandoned Only Love at 5%. The writing and the characters in general didn't appeal to me. As it was, they were totally bland and boring. Hmm…where have I heard that before?
The scene that led to their first kiss was written awkwardly and felt very stilted. Clumsy. Embarrassing. Wooden. Stiff. I'll leave it to you to pick an appropriate word. Thinking about their first sex scene made me cringe. Anyway, I didn't even make it that far, so it's pretty pointless to ponder about them fumbling their clumsily-stiffly selves (pun intended?) through the sheets.
He took another step and now we were toe to toe. My fingers slipped off the knob when he gently took possession of that hand, too. It didn't matter, though. At this point, leaving him here alone no longer seemed like the next action I wanted to take anyway. As if reading my mind, Adam erased the last few inches of space that were no longer welcome between us. His chest pressed against mine when our lips met, and I inhaled a breath so long and deep that I became lightheaded. Or maybe that was just because of him. His lips were soft and warm just like I'd imagined they were. I somehow appreciated the hint of chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry that flavored our kiss more now, tasting them on his lips instead of on a spoon. He was right; this was so much more suitable dessert.
(…)
Yeah, gimme a spoon please. Not sure what I'm going to do with it, though. Geez.
My mouth parted in submission, welcoming Adam's tongue inside when he took our kiss to a deeper level of intimacy. My knees went weak and I felt his heart racing through his shirt.
Beware, his heart will burst through his body shortly.
His fingers squeezed mine tighter as he leaned into me, sandwiching me between hims nd the wall, which was just as firm and unyielding as his body.
(…)
I was so entranced I didn't even realize my hands were freed from Adam's grasp until I felt his inching up my torso, exploring me on top of my clothes. With him so close, I felt like he was everywhere--all over me. Maybe he was. And maybe I loved it.
His palms stopped just beneath my breasts and my pulse accelerated. The feel of his thumbs brushing slowly over my nipples made them tighten, leaving me resentful of the shirt and bra keeping my skin from connecting with Adam's. The frustrated groan that escaped his throat led me to believe he had the same thought.
Dear Charlie,
#SorryAmNotSorryAtAll for stressing you so much.
I just needed your gorgeous, head-to-toe perfection to comfort my bruised reader's soul.
Thank you for your compassion. I appreciate it very much.
See you next time!
Best,
Baba
March 12, 2021
WOW
6 ratings, 2 reviews on Goodreads. 3 ratings/reviews on Amazon. Written by two authors.
And this IR book definitely pleasantly surprised.
On second thought...
IR coupling just has a nice brand of hotness, just IMO.
Well, in this one, sexy blue-eyed cop Adam Holloway moves into a city apartment complex under the explanation that his living there will help towards closing the gap between the police and citizens, that his living there will make the residents safer.
Yet, Adam and one concerned citizen and resident, Aubrey Phillips, get more than they bargain for.
Aubrey, a struggling, single mom, who has a waning tie to the father of her little girl, is living in a city neighborhood where she as well as her neighbors do not trust the police. Aubrey wants to find a place in her life where she can just be in comfort and at peace.
When her unwanted attraction to Adam propels her into interactions that sneakily enter into relationship status, Aubrey has choices to make.
I loved the honesty between Aubrey and Adam, even when that honesty was hard to combat or deal with. This is the one element that kept me from noticing that these guys were shades away from insta-love. Their conversations and shared looks felt realistic, not something I usually pair with the IR I've previously read.
Another bonus was that the reader gets both Adam's and Aubrey's POV and though the writing isn't magnificent, their streams of consciousness help to evoke the gambit of emotions they experience and create conflicts that contain plausibility and multiplicity. I rooted for them both together and separately, even though they had stances that disrupted their loyalty to each other.
Speaking of this couple's obstacles, they were kind of tremendous, and I was like...
This made the plot slow up at times, but the book is actually an average length and in the end, the device worked out well.
Secondary characters function as enhancement and the hook up of these two lovers is steamy enough to match the pacing, the characterization, and the overall mood of the story.
Again, I was pleasantly surprised. I tried this one with my usual skepticism and ended up liking it very much. There will be a sequel and I am keen to give it a try, but this book can stand alone.
6 ratings, 2 reviews on Goodreads. 3 ratings/reviews on Amazon. Written by two authors.
And this IR book definitely pleasantly surprised.
I read IR because I like the element of contrast and fearless mating...
On second thought...
IR coupling just has a nice brand of hotness, just IMO.
Well, in this one, sexy blue-eyed cop Adam Holloway moves into a city apartment complex under the explanation that his living there will help towards closing the gap between the police and citizens, that his living there will make the residents safer.
Yet, Adam and one concerned citizen and resident, Aubrey Phillips, get more than they bargain for.
Aubrey, a struggling, single mom, who has a waning tie to the father of her little girl, is living in a city neighborhood where she as well as her neighbors do not trust the police. Aubrey wants to find a place in her life where she can just be in comfort and at peace.
When her unwanted attraction to Adam propels her into interactions that sneakily enter into relationship status, Aubrey has choices to make.
I loved the honesty between Aubrey and Adam, even when that honesty was hard to combat or deal with. This is the one element that kept me from noticing that these guys were shades away from insta-love. Their conversations and shared looks felt realistic, not something I usually pair with the IR I've previously read.
Another bonus was that the reader gets both Adam's and Aubrey's POV and though the writing isn't magnificent, their streams of consciousness help to evoke the gambit of emotions they experience and create conflicts that contain plausibility and multiplicity. I rooted for them both together and separately, even though they had stances that disrupted their loyalty to each other.
Speaking of this couple's obstacles, they were kind of tremendous, and I was like...
At points, it felt as if there was not a way for this couple to survive; at the same time, those things that made conflict could have been easily classified as trivial. Of course, I wanted a happy ending, but the author kept painting such thoughts inside Adam and Aubrey at crucial moments, alone and together, that I could only just experience them in frustration and surprised appreciation.
This made the plot slow up at times, but the book is actually an average length and in the end, the device worked out well.
Secondary characters function as enhancement and the hook up of these two lovers is steamy enough to match the pacing, the characterization, and the overall mood of the story.
Again, I was pleasantly surprised. I tried this one with my usual skepticism and ended up liking it very much. There will be a sequel and I am keen to give it a try, but this book can stand alone.
November 28, 2014
I first found out about Only Love when Victoria H. Smith and Raven St. Pierre revealed the cover. It was so gorgeous and caught my eye. Then I read an excerpt they'd shared on Facebook and I was hooked.
Only Love is a love story and a story of second chances. First, we have Aubrey, a single mother struggling to make end meet and take care of her one-year-old daughter, Marissa. Aubrey's trying to pick up the pieces after her boyfriend Javi, a soldier stationed in Afghanistan, left her saddled in debts he created. When a white police officer is assigned to live in her apartment building as part of an outreach program, she is skeptical and not ready to trust him. But then she meets Adam and there is a connection she cannot deny. Like her, Adam is trying to pick up the pieces. A recovering alcoholic, Adam's been carrying around a lot of guilt and isolating himself from the possibility of love. It's not long before he and Marissa begin spending time together, despite her misgivings about the police.
Only Love is a wonderful story about the power of love and redemption. I really liked how Smith and St. Pierre shared enough of the characters' backstories without weighing down the novel. The pacing was spot on and the conflicts the couple faced felt genuine and not forced. One of the main aspects that I really appreciated was how the authors handled race and politics--this was done in such a smooth manner, making it a vital part of the plot without any heavy-handed preaching or simply relying on stereotypes.
If you're looking for an IR novel that will touch your heart, then Only Love is the story for you. I would go as far as saying this isn't your typical romance. Because of the issues it tackles--race, politics, corruption within the police force, even ethics--this reads more like commercial women's fiction. It goes beyond the "will they or won't they?" and gets the to heart of relationships while also presenting a story that topical.
Highly recommended!
Only Love is a love story and a story of second chances. First, we have Aubrey, a single mother struggling to make end meet and take care of her one-year-old daughter, Marissa. Aubrey's trying to pick up the pieces after her boyfriend Javi, a soldier stationed in Afghanistan, left her saddled in debts he created. When a white police officer is assigned to live in her apartment building as part of an outreach program, she is skeptical and not ready to trust him. But then she meets Adam and there is a connection she cannot deny. Like her, Adam is trying to pick up the pieces. A recovering alcoholic, Adam's been carrying around a lot of guilt and isolating himself from the possibility of love. It's not long before he and Marissa begin spending time together, despite her misgivings about the police.
Only Love is a wonderful story about the power of love and redemption. I really liked how Smith and St. Pierre shared enough of the characters' backstories without weighing down the novel. The pacing was spot on and the conflicts the couple faced felt genuine and not forced. One of the main aspects that I really appreciated was how the authors handled race and politics--this was done in such a smooth manner, making it a vital part of the plot without any heavy-handed preaching or simply relying on stereotypes.
If you're looking for an IR novel that will touch your heart, then Only Love is the story for you. I would go as far as saying this isn't your typical romance. Because of the issues it tackles--race, politics, corruption within the police force, even ethics--this reads more like commercial women's fiction. It goes beyond the "will they or won't they?" and gets the to heart of relationships while also presenting a story that topical.
Highly recommended!
May 5, 2015
Solid read but if I'm honest, something about it was off for me. As usual, I liked the hero much more than the heroine. She just.....well, the constant pushing him away every single time anything she didn't like happened. That's a book peeve of mine.
Still, some really touching moments and I adore the way this man opened his heart and life to the "his girls". Definitely recommend.
Still, some really touching moments and I adore the way this man opened his heart and life to the "his girls". Definitely recommend.
November 22, 2014
Mixed Feelings- BRAB ONLINE BOOK CLUB
I have been a fan of Raven St. Pierre since reading Red Sun and have read all her books and loved them. I am used to her strong, over the top characters. This is my first time reading Victoria Smith's work, so I didn't know what to expect.
While this was a beautiful love story and I fell in love with Aubrey and Adam, I was somewhat underwhelmed by the story. I did not get the rush or high expectations I have come to expect.
As I mentioned before, it is a beautiful love story but I wish I had enjoyed it more. I am curious about Javi's story, so maybe I'll revisit these characters.
I have been a fan of Raven St. Pierre since reading Red Sun and have read all her books and loved them. I am used to her strong, over the top characters. This is my first time reading Victoria Smith's work, so I didn't know what to expect.
While this was a beautiful love story and I fell in love with Aubrey and Adam, I was somewhat underwhelmed by the story. I did not get the rush or high expectations I have come to expect.
As I mentioned before, it is a beautiful love story but I wish I had enjoyed it more. I am curious about Javi's story, so maybe I'll revisit these characters.
November 27, 2014
"Only Love" is a wonderfully written love story. I enjoyed reading it. The storyline kept me interested page after page. I truly enjoy reading books that don't show the main characters as completely perfect and innocent. It shows the characters as flawed individuals, both battling their own skeletons and having to overcome their own fears to find true love.
March 11, 2015
I really enjoyed this one. There was no falling in love at the drop of a dime. There were struggles, trust issues, a little steam, but overall a good storyline. I was rooting for Adam and Aubrey. I will definitely read more of this author.
January 27, 2015
I do not even know where to begin with the book. It was a great read. This ladies really put their thought into the story they wrote. I have read books by both authors but them two together is a force to be reckoned with. This story follows Adam and Aubrey as they struggle to deal with past and find a future together because only love can survive in the future.
I loved how this book took on a subject that I have not really seen in most books I have read. With the recent hostility people are feeling towards cops throughout the nation making Adams character a cop and speaking on how many people view them really stuck a cord with me. I also liked how Aubrey had a reservations about him being a cop but she learned at the end of the day he was a man that truly wanted to do good in the world.
The struggles the two faced were not the same yet they were. They both been hurt and they still carried that burden with them. The main thing I loved about this book was that family to them was not traditional but it was in fact very non traditional and that was what made them a family. They loved each other despite they various differences they had. Another thing was overcoming addiction. These authors hit it right on the spot. They wrote about it with such clarity.
The story line was clearly written, Characters were developed in such a way anyone could connect with what they were going through. Adams and Aubrey's love story was powerful because they both had to trust in each other to fully understand that truly have a future they must learn to trust each other and that was especially hard for Aubrey because of the past she had with her ex.
Final thoughts this book was a great read and if I could I would rate it ten stars I would but since I can only give it five I did, but know it was more in my mind. As mentioned above they did a great job at writing this book.
Happy Reading!!!
I loved how this book took on a subject that I have not really seen in most books I have read. With the recent hostility people are feeling towards cops throughout the nation making Adams character a cop and speaking on how many people view them really stuck a cord with me. I also liked how Aubrey had a reservations about him being a cop but she learned at the end of the day he was a man that truly wanted to do good in the world.
The struggles the two faced were not the same yet they were. They both been hurt and they still carried that burden with them. The main thing I loved about this book was that family to them was not traditional but it was in fact very non traditional and that was what made them a family. They loved each other despite they various differences they had. Another thing was overcoming addiction. These authors hit it right on the spot. They wrote about it with such clarity.
The story line was clearly written, Characters were developed in such a way anyone could connect with what they were going through. Adams and Aubrey's love story was powerful because they both had to trust in each other to fully understand that truly have a future they must learn to trust each other and that was especially hard for Aubrey because of the past she had with her ex.
Final thoughts this book was a great read and if I could I would rate it ten stars I would but since I can only give it five I did, but know it was more in my mind. As mentioned above they did a great job at writing this book.
Happy Reading!!!
January 26, 2021
This was such a wonderful book that was written with such love, redemption, second chances and hope.
Audrey is a single mother who has been handling her daughter, Marissa as well as Gabby who she's a second mother to her. She's been a taking care of her and she's in a complicated relationship with Javi who left for the military when he found out that she had Marissa. I admired her love for her daughter and Gabby, but very stubborn woman. She doesn't realize that her stubborness is pushing away the only man who isn't scared of her personality, but embraces and makes it better. My goodness, their relationship was beautiful as their relationship blossomed.
Adam is a cop and is living in Aubrey's apartmemt, because the citizens want more protection so hence the police force assigned Adam. He has a lot of baggage, but as he meets Aubrey it's the first connection he's had since something has happened to him. Adam made me smile for him & Aubrey. The affection and love he showed Marissa who wasn't even his daughter just made my heart swell. *wink*As every relationship has it's ups and downs so did Aubrey & Adam.
I also cried a bit toward the end, because as per usual Victoria H. Smith always does this to me. It
Audrey is a single mother who has been handling her daughter, Marissa as well as Gabby who she's a second mother to her. She's been a taking care of her and she's in a complicated relationship with Javi who left for the military when he found out that she had Marissa. I admired her love for her daughter and Gabby, but very stubborn woman. She doesn't realize that her stubborness is pushing away the only man who isn't scared of her personality, but embraces and makes it better. My goodness, their relationship was beautiful as their relationship blossomed.
Adam is a cop and is living in Aubrey's apartmemt, because the citizens want more protection so hence the police force assigned Adam. He has a lot of baggage, but as he meets Aubrey it's the first connection he's had since something has happened to him. Adam made me smile for him & Aubrey. The affection and love he showed Marissa who wasn't even his daughter just made my heart swell. *wink*As every relationship has it's ups and downs so did Aubrey & Adam.
I also cried a bit toward the end, because as per usual Victoria H. Smith always does this to me. It
November 19, 2014
I'm in love with this book! I have loved everything written by Ms. smith and it is the first book I have read by Ms. St. Pierre. I can say this book was written by a perfect duo.This is the unlikely love story of a single mother, Aubrey, and the resident police officer Adam. She is struggling to put herself through school and raise her daughter, he is apart of the hated police force with his own secrets. This book perfectly marries their contrasting lives into a wonderful love story. I don't want to give too much away, but you have to read this book all the way to the end. There is an awesome twist, and you will want to read it! Five stars
December 16, 2014
Great read.
This love story is so relevant to our time. Police officers get such a hard time from the high profiled media cases. This book shows the struggle of trust for law enforcement and the conflict they have in serving while protecting. With this brilliant storyline the author's give us a love story of compassion,trust, forgiveness and redemption. I look forward to Javier's story and know this blended family will triumph.
This love story is so relevant to our time. Police officers get such a hard time from the high profiled media cases. This book shows the struggle of trust for law enforcement and the conflict they have in serving while protecting. With this brilliant storyline the author's give us a love story of compassion,trust, forgiveness and redemption. I look forward to Javier's story and know this blended family will triumph.
February 14, 2015
But...
I enjoyed the story but.... the timeline seemed to flip flop and there were some editing issues that were distracting. Overall I would recommend and look for more books by this author.
I enjoyed the story but.... the timeline seemed to flip flop and there were some editing issues that were distracting. Overall I would recommend and look for more books by this author.
May 7, 2016
Slightly predictable with some surprise elements sprinkled throughout. I loved the hero (cop, recovering alcoholic w/ demons, big heart) An enjoyable read.
July 20, 2017
I just loved it!!!
I just loved it!!! It was soo beautiful. It was also romantic, loving. I could go on and on. They had soo much love and strength for one another. They made a family out of love and not just blood.
I just loved it!!! It was soo beautiful. It was also romantic, loving. I could go on and on. They had soo much love and strength for one another. They made a family out of love and not just blood.
February 7, 2018
Wonderful!
Aubrey and Adam story touched a lot of issues that society go through daily. Wonderful well developed characters. I guess I would have to envision their wedding. I hope they adopt Gabby. Highly recommended 💋!
Aubrey and Adam story touched a lot of issues that society go through daily. Wonderful well developed characters. I guess I would have to envision their wedding. I hope they adopt Gabby. Highly recommended 💋!
May 31, 2017
Pretty good
I would start and stop this book for some reason and FINALLY decided to read it! This book is really well written! :)
I would start and stop this book for some reason and FINALLY decided to read it! This book is really well written! :)
July 19, 2017
1.5☆
I just didn't like this story.
I just didn't like this story.
October 25, 2017
Cute story. Some parts were a little drawn out but, overall, I enjoyed it.
November 25, 2014
Before I get into my review let me say that this is my first time ever reading anything by these two ladies so I honestly did not know what to expect. From the FB teasers, promotions and page takeovers this was a highly anticipated novel. After reading the story then the synopsis I honestly don’t feel like the blurb did the book justice. This book is multi-layered it’s not a straight forward love story. Each character is connected somehow and not always in a good way.
Adam a police officer as a part of a program in the department has chosen to live in the same neighborhood that he polices. The neighbors avoid him like the plague until one afternoon he decides to be “neighborly” and help fellow downstairs neighbor Aubrey carry groceries in. Because of his uniform and a litany of personal issues Aubrey doesn’t trust too easily. Adam is viewed as a snitch not someone to help. So when he gives single mom Aubrey some advice about her teething child her opinion of him is slightly altered. Aubrey not only has her own daughter Rissa (Marissa) to look after she has 15 year old Gabby her neighbor to watch as well. She is in a barely there relationship, with no familial support and a job that barely pays her mounting bills. The last thing Aubrey is looking for is male attention especially from a cop.
Through a series of conversations and kind gestures Aubrey’s heart begins to thaw a little. Being hurt and betrayed by her baby’s father Javi has not made it easy for the next man. Aubrey is a strong independent woman but even the strongest of women just want someone to love. Adam is a man with deep secrets, demons that he just can’t seem to battle. Is Aubrey the woman for the job?
I mentioned this story is told in layers and I don’t want to give much a way. Because each character is connected they all have the ability to either hurt or heal each other. This book gave meaning to the term modern family. For all the members of this family the kids involved in the story will never lack love or attention.
Although this book had a great premise it was poorly executed. There were issues that were brought up and never discussed and then bam a love scene. For instance the first love scene given the issues that lead up to it was poorly placed. At times the story read like two different people were writing it. I did like that this book wasn’t an insta-love type romance both characters had to develop their relationship but at times the story just dragged along. The authors had great material but some issues they could have really explore and left others alone. In the beginning you think Aubrey has no help from her baby’s father but then it’s later revealed that he does send her money just that she won’t take it. The issue with Adam latching on to Aubrey and her family and not wanting to reconnect with his own could have been explored more. Too much was happening with all the characters at once and nothing was really explored or fleshed out.
This book at times dealt with some very serious issues but had some very sweet moments as well. I liked Adam’s relationship with Rissa, and Gabby. And I can’t forget Adam’s moms. I loved the fact that this family was a blended family and there wasn’t any judgment. Gabby is a great secondary character although earlier in the story she is described as 15 she is wise beyond her years. Later in the story we get to see some of the walls between Adam being a cop and what the badge represents and Aubrey issues with trust be broken down through their love for one another.
As I mentioned previously each character has a storyline and their own set of issues but it is all interconnected. I like that this story was non-traditional but some of the characters seemed very one dimensional. Although this story is a serial I actually am looking forward to Javi’s story and how he will deal with this new development in his life. This story with all of its sex scenes was more sensual then spicy. I understand the two characters wanting to connect intimately but intimacy doesn’t always equate to sex. Some big things happened in this book and instead of the issues being explored more they were glossed over or a sex scene was thrown in. This review is not to bash the authors or to be taken personally. There are just some issues in the story that I found problematic as one reader. And I honestly did like the story and look forward to the next book in the series. Like I always say don’t judge this book based on this one review but for yourself.
Adam a police officer as a part of a program in the department has chosen to live in the same neighborhood that he polices. The neighbors avoid him like the plague until one afternoon he decides to be “neighborly” and help fellow downstairs neighbor Aubrey carry groceries in. Because of his uniform and a litany of personal issues Aubrey doesn’t trust too easily. Adam is viewed as a snitch not someone to help. So when he gives single mom Aubrey some advice about her teething child her opinion of him is slightly altered. Aubrey not only has her own daughter Rissa (Marissa) to look after she has 15 year old Gabby her neighbor to watch as well. She is in a barely there relationship, with no familial support and a job that barely pays her mounting bills. The last thing Aubrey is looking for is male attention especially from a cop.
Through a series of conversations and kind gestures Aubrey’s heart begins to thaw a little. Being hurt and betrayed by her baby’s father Javi has not made it easy for the next man. Aubrey is a strong independent woman but even the strongest of women just want someone to love. Adam is a man with deep secrets, demons that he just can’t seem to battle. Is Aubrey the woman for the job?
I mentioned this story is told in layers and I don’t want to give much a way. Because each character is connected they all have the ability to either hurt or heal each other. This book gave meaning to the term modern family. For all the members of this family the kids involved in the story will never lack love or attention.
Although this book had a great premise it was poorly executed. There were issues that were brought up and never discussed and then bam a love scene. For instance the first love scene given the issues that lead up to it was poorly placed. At times the story read like two different people were writing it. I did like that this book wasn’t an insta-love type romance both characters had to develop their relationship but at times the story just dragged along. The authors had great material but some issues they could have really explore and left others alone. In the beginning you think Aubrey has no help from her baby’s father but then it’s later revealed that he does send her money just that she won’t take it. The issue with Adam latching on to Aubrey and her family and not wanting to reconnect with his own could have been explored more. Too much was happening with all the characters at once and nothing was really explored or fleshed out.
This book at times dealt with some very serious issues but had some very sweet moments as well. I liked Adam’s relationship with Rissa, and Gabby. And I can’t forget Adam’s moms. I loved the fact that this family was a blended family and there wasn’t any judgment. Gabby is a great secondary character although earlier in the story she is described as 15 she is wise beyond her years. Later in the story we get to see some of the walls between Adam being a cop and what the badge represents and Aubrey issues with trust be broken down through their love for one another.
As I mentioned previously each character has a storyline and their own set of issues but it is all interconnected. I like that this story was non-traditional but some of the characters seemed very one dimensional. Although this story is a serial I actually am looking forward to Javi’s story and how he will deal with this new development in his life. This story with all of its sex scenes was more sensual then spicy. I understand the two characters wanting to connect intimately but intimacy doesn’t always equate to sex. Some big things happened in this book and instead of the issues being explored more they were glossed over or a sex scene was thrown in. This review is not to bash the authors or to be taken personally. There are just some issues in the story that I found problematic as one reader. And I honestly did like the story and look forward to the next book in the series. Like I always say don’t judge this book based on this one review but for yourself.
January 25, 2015
You can't judge a book by it's cover and then there are times you are required to reread because you have missed something. You've passed judgement to soon without a closer look.
Aubrey only knew love more often than not came with pain, disappointment and left her spinning in confusion. Leaving her to think with her head first and heart last. And like most, when presented with something positive you pick at it until you are gifted a negative. This gives you the excuse to run away.
Adam's strong, but not perfect and unlike most men. He's ready to take that leap, but he is still dealing internally with past demons set aside. At first sight Aubrey manages to breathe new breath into Adam's knowingly lonely life. He needs comfort in his soul and peace in his mind. Adam believes he's found it in Aubrey, Marissa and Gabby. A reason why he can smile.. His family.
In "Only Love" Raven and Victoria give different taste of love's addictions. How we often make excuses for negative love and run from the right kind. How twisted love can become. So much so, that you are willing to over look what's staring at you right before your eyes.
Aubrey only knew love more often than not came with pain, disappointment and left her spinning in confusion. Leaving her to think with her head first and heart last. And like most, when presented with something positive you pick at it until you are gifted a negative. This gives you the excuse to run away.
Adam's strong, but not perfect and unlike most men. He's ready to take that leap, but he is still dealing internally with past demons set aside. At first sight Aubrey manages to breathe new breath into Adam's knowingly lonely life. He needs comfort in his soul and peace in his mind. Adam believes he's found it in Aubrey, Marissa and Gabby. A reason why he can smile.. His family.
In "Only Love" Raven and Victoria give different taste of love's addictions. How we often make excuses for negative love and run from the right kind. How twisted love can become. So much so, that you are willing to over look what's staring at you right before your eyes.
August 29, 2016
“Only Love” is the book that introduced me to both Victoria H. Smith and Raven St. Pierre and made me a fan of their work individually.
Aubrey is a single mother struggling to support herself and her child. Adam is a police officer living in her building. They both have baggage from their past that they are trying to overcome. It is so hard for Aubrey to trust and let someone in, but Adam is just the man who is strong enough to break down her walls. He can be the man she can depend on to be there for her and her daughter. Just like she can give him the love, companionship, and family he desperately needs.
I loved the flow of the story and the characters were well developed. And the love scenes…. omg. They were so incredibly erotic and romantic. I think every woman needs an Adam in their life… THAT’s for sure!!
This was a beautiful story about love, forgiveness and second chances. I highly recommend “Only Love”. :)
Aubrey is a single mother struggling to support herself and her child. Adam is a police officer living in her building. They both have baggage from their past that they are trying to overcome. It is so hard for Aubrey to trust and let someone in, but Adam is just the man who is strong enough to break down her walls. He can be the man she can depend on to be there for her and her daughter. Just like she can give him the love, companionship, and family he desperately needs.
I loved the flow of the story and the characters were well developed. And the love scenes…. omg. They were so incredibly erotic and romantic. I think every woman needs an Adam in their life… THAT’s for sure!!
This was a beautiful story about love, forgiveness and second chances. I highly recommend “Only Love”. :)
July 21, 2016
Intriguing
This book kept me intrigued the entire time. This was my first read by this author and I was quite pleased. It was not your typical BWWM romance novel. I really liked that it was about a white police officer who was trying to make a difference in a low income predominantly black neighborhood. Not all police officers are bad. Adam was a wonderful man even though he had a lot of baggage. I really liked Aubrey as well. She was not a damsel in distress and did not play the poor, black woman. I enjoyed seeing Adam and Aubrey's relationship build. The ending was a bit of a surprise.
This book kept me intrigued the entire time. This was my first read by this author and I was quite pleased. It was not your typical BWWM romance novel. I really liked that it was about a white police officer who was trying to make a difference in a low income predominantly black neighborhood. Not all police officers are bad. Adam was a wonderful man even though he had a lot of baggage. I really liked Aubrey as well. She was not a damsel in distress and did not play the poor, black woman. I enjoyed seeing Adam and Aubrey's relationship build. The ending was a bit of a surprise.
December 18, 2014
The Good: Solid story with real people, who do and say real things and God were their problems real, not the trite fluff problems that seem to be the standard of romance novels.
The Bad: The sentence structure in this novel makes parts of it unreadable and comprehension of other parts difficult. How hard is it for authors to get someone who is worth their salt to proofread the work?
This would have been a 4 based on the story, but the writing was a 2 at best, hence the 3/5.
The Bad: The sentence structure in this novel makes parts of it unreadable and comprehension of other parts difficult. How hard is it for authors to get someone who is worth their salt to proofread the work?
This would have been a 4 based on the story, but the writing was a 2 at best, hence the 3/5.
April 2, 2015
Actually a 3.5 for me. I liked the premise and I really enjoyed Adam and his love for his family.
There were a few times while reading that I had to roll my eyes at Aubrey. I didnt like her as much as I wanted to. There were a few times when I shed a couple of tears and a few characters that made me mad(Aubrey's aunt) but all in all this was a good story and I will definitely pick up more from Victoria. Not sure if I want to read Javi's story yet but I am going to read Roxie and Griffin's book.
There were a few times while reading that I had to roll my eyes at Aubrey. I didnt like her as much as I wanted to. There were a few times when I shed a couple of tears and a few characters that made me mad(Aubrey's aunt) but all in all this was a good story and I will definitely pick up more from Victoria. Not sure if I want to read Javi's story yet but I am going to read Roxie and Griffin's book.
April 24, 2016
Initially, I liked both characters however somewhere along the line I stopped connecting with Aubrey. It seems she was always punishing Adam for being a good man and doing the right thing. She came off as a rash, emotional and high-strung; always quick to push Adam away instead of giving him the time/grace to explain his side. Honestly, by the end of the book I was emotionally exhausted for the poor guy....
Also, was it just me or did they trip into love hella fast?
Also, was it just me or did they trip into love hella fast?
December 30, 2014
What a wonderful story:) Smiling like a damn fool right now!
I loved this book so much the characters: Adam, Aubrey, Marissa aka Rissa, Gabby, Joan and Cindy. The end I was like damn, but I kinda had a feeling something wasn't right. I'll be buying the next book in this series and I can't wait. I love Victoria and Raven the work they put out jointly or not is always impeccable.
I loved this book so much the characters: Adam, Aubrey, Marissa aka Rissa, Gabby, Joan and Cindy. The end I was like damn, but I kinda had a feeling something wasn't right. I'll be buying the next book in this series and I can't wait. I love Victoria and Raven the work they put out jointly or not is always impeccable.
January 21, 2015
What can I say
This was a great story. It had everything. I loved the characters and the story line. I would have loved to know if they got married before the end of the book. I have till spring to know if i want to read Javi's story. Don't wish him bad luck but his heartbreak he brought on himself.
This was a great story. It had everything. I loved the characters and the story line. I would have loved to know if they got married before the end of the book. I have till spring to know if i want to read Javi's story. Don't wish him bad luck but his heartbreak he brought on himself.
March 26, 2015
I really loved this book. The characters were real people who have made bad choices. Good people. Mature people. It was so nice to read a book where individuals acted there age and the drama was drama, not over the top, ridiculous childish behavior. Forgiveness was a big. Nobody was perfect, but they loved each other flaws and all. So stoked for Javi.
March 30, 2015
Very Good
This was a full novel with a HEA. Every time I thought the story had ended, there was more. An emotionally damaged hero, a wary heroine find each other, and together with her daughter and a neighboring teenager they make a family. Untold connections on both sides almost break them apart. Well written.
This was a full novel with a HEA. Every time I thought the story had ended, there was more. An emotionally damaged hero, a wary heroine find each other, and together with her daughter and a neighboring teenager they make a family. Untold connections on both sides almost break them apart. Well written.
January 19, 2015
Twists & turns
This was a refreshing change from the typical interracial romance. There were children and ex
extended family involved, as well as addiction and socio-economic issues. I can't wait for the follow-up novel!
This was a refreshing change from the typical interracial romance. There were children and ex
extended family involved, as well as addiction and socio-economic issues. I can't wait for the follow-up novel!
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