What do you think?
Rate this book
To My Loves
Peyton and Colton grew up not only as brother and sister, but as thick as thieves. After the sudden death of their parents, Colton decides to enroll in the Marines, bringing Peyton along for the ride. While Colton falls for the love of his life, Peyton settles for a man who she has fun with.
But when Colton receives his orders for deployment, he leaves Peyton to take his place next to his newly pregnant wife Julia until he returns.
When double tragedy strikes, Peyton barely manages to hold on to her own life, struggling to make sense of everything happening around her. With her grip slowly slipping, the third tragedy hits when her doctor tells her that it might be time for her to let go.
Will the news from her doctor finally set her free and allow her to truly live? Or will the verdict only cause her to give up completely?
But when Colton receives his orders for deployment, he leaves Peyton to take his place next to his newly pregnant wife Julia until he returns.
When double tragedy strikes, Peyton barely manages to hold on to her own life, struggling to make sense of everything happening around her. With her grip slowly slipping, the third tragedy hits when her doctor tells her that it might be time for her to let go.
Will the news from her doctor finally set her free and allow her to truly live? Or will the verdict only cause her to give up completely?
Unknown Binding
First published January 1, 2015
1 person is currently reading
112 people want to read
About the author
Jen Cousineau
11 books343 followersWisconsinite. Romance Author. Twin Mom. Wife. Adventurist wannabe. Fitness enthusiast. Foodie. Hunter. Dreamer. Coffee and Chap stick addict.
Website: http://jencousineau.com
Email: jen@jencousineau.com
Amazon: http://amzn.to/1Q6k2SD
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorJenCou...
Twitter: https://twitter.com/JenCAuthor (@JenCAuthor)
Instagram: http://instagram.com/jencousineau
Pinterest: http://www.pinterest.com/authorjenc/
Website: http://jencousineau.com
Email: jen@jencousineau.com
Amazon: http://amzn.to/1Q6k2SD
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorJenCou...
Twitter: https://twitter.com/JenCAuthor (@JenCAuthor)
Instagram: http://instagram.com/jencousineau
Pinterest: http://www.pinterest.com/authorjenc/
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
April 8, 2016
** ARC provided by the author for an honest review **
There are few novels that make me sob and laugh at the same time and ever rarer times when I am left reeling after what I have just read. To My Loves by Jen Cousineau was one of those rare magical reads that pulled on every one of my heartstrings with every turn of the page. This talented author did a fantastic job at knowing just when to inject humor into the story line that at times was somber and heartbreaking.
Told through the voice of Peyton, you will be taken on one heck of a ride. All the emotions, laughter and love comes spilling out of the pages. Peyton is a beautiful, strong and brave soul. She is in a marriage that is going no where fast, an author struggling with daily deadlines and a dedicated sister to the only family she has left her brother Colton. Life has not been kind to her and little does she know God will be testing her faith again sooner than expected.
The challenges she has faced and is facing would completely shatter a normal human, however she does not have time for any of that. With the help of her amazing Best Friend Taylor she embarks on a new chapter of her life. Until again .. she is faced with yet again another devastating blow.
Friendships formed, bonds made stronger and the knowledge that "family" isn't always made of blood. This story will have you hugging your loved ones just a little tighter, looking at life with a renewed sense of gratitude and smiling at the clouds knowing loved ones are ever present in our lives.
It will make you wish for friends like Taylor and Ashton, a love like Hunter's, family like Colton & Julia and two amazing humans like Serenity and Skylar.
I hope we get to see some more of those characters as they were so pivotal and beautifully portrayed.
The BEST part of the read .. Peyton's journal entries .. but be warned have a box of tissues readily available !
A 5 star emotional read
There are few novels that make me sob and laugh at the same time and ever rarer times when I am left reeling after what I have just read. To My Loves by Jen Cousineau was one of those rare magical reads that pulled on every one of my heartstrings with every turn of the page. This talented author did a fantastic job at knowing just when to inject humor into the story line that at times was somber and heartbreaking.
Told through the voice of Peyton, you will be taken on one heck of a ride. All the emotions, laughter and love comes spilling out of the pages. Peyton is a beautiful, strong and brave soul. She is in a marriage that is going no where fast, an author struggling with daily deadlines and a dedicated sister to the only family she has left her brother Colton. Life has not been kind to her and little does she know God will be testing her faith again sooner than expected.
The challenges she has faced and is facing would completely shatter a normal human, however she does not have time for any of that. With the help of her amazing Best Friend Taylor she embarks on a new chapter of her life. Until again .. she is faced with yet again another devastating blow.
Friendships formed, bonds made stronger and the knowledge that "family" isn't always made of blood. This story will have you hugging your loved ones just a little tighter, looking at life with a renewed sense of gratitude and smiling at the clouds knowing loved ones are ever present in our lives.
It will make you wish for friends like Taylor and Ashton, a love like Hunter's, family like Colton & Julia and two amazing humans like Serenity and Skylar.
I hope we get to see some more of those characters as they were so pivotal and beautifully portrayed.
The BEST part of the read .. Peyton's journal entries .. but be warned have a box of tissues readily available !
A 5 star emotional read
April 11, 2016
I just finished..literally a few minutes ago..And jeez it was brutal!
I am not going into the story at all..because, while the blurb gives some indication of what's to come, I am not going to ruin someone else's reading experience..so I will just talk about how it made me feel!
The first part of the book, that I would labell as "before" , drove me to madness.. I was so mad I was shaking... There is one character that inspired such hate I couldn't see past it..On the other hand I was envious of other characters..guess I was very in sync with Peyton.
The "after"...not sure how to describe it.. hopelessness coupled with awe.. It doesn't make sense but it will..believe me!
After that...contentment, joy , happiness for what is to come. .excitement...only to plunge back into despair and incredulity...
But at the end of it all...peace...unexpected at that but it was the right ending..
The one thing I can say with certainty is....READ THIS STORY...shouty capitals cause this story deserves them...it's a heartbreaking yet beautiful journey..where lessons are learned and life gives and takes,but through it all it allows you to experience and create precious memories!
I believe 5 stars are not enough!
I am not going into the story at all..because, while the blurb gives some indication of what's to come, I am not going to ruin someone else's reading experience..so I will just talk about how it made me feel!
The first part of the book, that I would labell as "before" , drove me to madness.. I was so mad I was shaking... There is one character that inspired such hate I couldn't see past it..On the other hand I was envious of other characters..guess I was very in sync with Peyton.
The "after"...not sure how to describe it.. hopelessness coupled with awe.. It doesn't make sense but it will..believe me!
After that...contentment, joy , happiness for what is to come. .excitement...only to plunge back into despair and incredulity...
But at the end of it all...peace...unexpected at that but it was the right ending..
The one thing I can say with certainty is....READ THIS STORY...shouty capitals cause this story deserves them...it's a heartbreaking yet beautiful journey..where lessons are learned and life gives and takes,but through it all it allows you to experience and create precious memories!
I believe 5 stars are not enough!
April 12, 2016
4 stars
I just finished To My Loves, and I have tears running down my face. With everything that happened in this story, it was bound to happen. After everything was said and done, I did enjoy it this book. In all fairness of an "honest review", I'm going to play devil's advocate, so please don't get mad or offended! There were two events that took place that bothered me. First, was the situation between Peyton and Jesse in the beginning of the story. Seriously?? I know everyone thinks differently about these types of situations, but when it came to the way Payten was dealing with it, it almost killed the book for me. I wanted to slap some sense into her. Like 20 times over! As for the second, well, I must say it was the ending. I wasn't too happy about the way it ended. I just felt the ending could have been so much more then what it was. I feel like it ended too quickly. I would have liked to see a little more fight from the individual character. Now with that being said, as you can see, I still rated it 4 stars! That's because it truly was a great story and it did have some really great moments. Plus, thank goodness for Hunter! He restored my faith in all mankind! So...if there were to be a follow up book, I would most definitely read it!
-Juls
September 18, 2020
This is a book I was not expecting. I love a book that gives me the feels and crikey this in spades. I started reading late evening and finished with tears streaming down my face.
My poor heart.
I almost wanted to downrate it due to that ending because I felt so betrayed after everything that had happened previously.
Can I say Hunter was brilliant and I wished we had more time with him.
Loved it.
My poor heart.
I almost wanted to downrate it due to that ending because I felt so betrayed after everything that had happened previously.
Can I say Hunter was brilliant and I wished we had more time with him.
Loved it.
April 12, 2016
My Loves by Jen Cousineau read on behalf of A Book Lovers Emporium Book Blog.
5 Beautiful Stars !!!
When you have finished a book and realise you need to get your review done asap to capture all those amazing feelings you got to experience whilst reading it - then you know you've hit a good one. Beautifully written and a good all round family orientated story, as soon as I got past the first couple of chapters I just knew I was going to fall in love.
Ok so here we go- Peyton and Colton are brother and sister and are really, really close. They move to California and they both end up married -Colton adores and loves his wife but Peyton is not so lucky, she ends up with a selfish SOB. Colton enlists in the army and this whole process affects the very future of them both in so many tragic ways you wouldn't believe. Colton's wife is pregnant when he leaves and Peyton is there for her every step of the way on this journey of motherhood to be. I experienced so many feeling and emotions when reading this book - happiness, turmoil, anger, sadness, devastation and then maybe a touch of happiness again. To be honest by the end of this story my heart had been put through the ringer that many times I didn't know what to think.
My most favourite parts in this book was when Peyton wrote her journal - poignant, beautiful, and utterly heart breaking in places, I found this was so well done. I have never read this author before but I certainly loved this book and the way she bought the characters personalities out of the page and into your heart. What made it even more personal was that some of this was written from her own experiences but you don't find that out until the book is done and then when you realise this it makes you stop and THINK and ponder, reflect on the whole story again !! I have a few little niggles, they are only small ones and they are only in my opinion- but the characters of Colton and Hunter were massive to this story line but I felt we didn't get enough of them, I wanted to experience more time reading them, getting to know them more, wondering what they would have done or felt in certain situations which arose throughout the book. I love a good UGLY cry but this story is so sad, it even left me reeling but I won't take away stars for that because we each have our own way of dealing with what occurs in this book and I thoroughly recommend you read this amazing, wonderful story. Not one to be missed
5 Beautiful Stars !!!
When you have finished a book and realise you need to get your review done asap to capture all those amazing feelings you got to experience whilst reading it - then you know you've hit a good one. Beautifully written and a good all round family orientated story, as soon as I got past the first couple of chapters I just knew I was going to fall in love.
Ok so here we go- Peyton and Colton are brother and sister and are really, really close. They move to California and they both end up married -Colton adores and loves his wife but Peyton is not so lucky, she ends up with a selfish SOB. Colton enlists in the army and this whole process affects the very future of them both in so many tragic ways you wouldn't believe. Colton's wife is pregnant when he leaves and Peyton is there for her every step of the way on this journey of motherhood to be. I experienced so many feeling and emotions when reading this book - happiness, turmoil, anger, sadness, devastation and then maybe a touch of happiness again. To be honest by the end of this story my heart had been put through the ringer that many times I didn't know what to think.
My most favourite parts in this book was when Peyton wrote her journal - poignant, beautiful, and utterly heart breaking in places, I found this was so well done. I have never read this author before but I certainly loved this book and the way she bought the characters personalities out of the page and into your heart. What made it even more personal was that some of this was written from her own experiences but you don't find that out until the book is done and then when you realise this it makes you stop and THINK and ponder, reflect on the whole story again !! I have a few little niggles, they are only small ones and they are only in my opinion- but the characters of Colton and Hunter were massive to this story line but I felt we didn't get enough of them, I wanted to experience more time reading them, getting to know them more, wondering what they would have done or felt in certain situations which arose throughout the book. I love a good UGLY cry but this story is so sad, it even left me reeling but I won't take away stars for that because we each have our own way of dealing with what occurs in this book and I thoroughly recommend you read this amazing, wonderful story. Not one to be missed
April 7, 2016
5 Beautiful Stars !!!
When you have finished a book and realise you need to get your review done asap to capture all those amazing feelings you got to experience whilst reading it - then you know you've hit a good one. Beautifully written and a good all round family orientated story, as soon as I got past the first couple of chapters I just knew I was going to fall in love.
Ok so here we go- Peyton and Colton are brother and sister and are really, really close. They move to California and they both end up married -Colton adores and loves his wife but Peyton is not so lucky, she ends up with a selfish SOB. Colton enlists in the army and this whole process affects the very future of them both in so many tragic ways you wouldn't believe. Colton's wife is pregnant when he leaves and Peyton is there for her every step of the way on this journey of motherhood to be. I experienced so many feeling and emotions when reading this book - happiness, turmoil, anger, sadness, devastation and then maybe a touch of happiness again. To be honest by the end of this story my heart had been put through the ringer that many times I didn't know what to think.
My most favourite parts in this book was when Peyton wrote her journal - poignant, beautiful, and utterly heart breaking in places, I found this was so well done. I have never read this author before but I certainly loved this book and the way she bought the characters personalities out of the page and into your heart. What made it even more personal was that some of this was written from her own experiences but you don't find that out until the book is done and then when you realise this it makes you stop and THINK and ponder, reflect on the whole story again !! I have a few little niggles, they are only small ones and they are only in my opinion- but the characters of Colton and Hunter were massive to this story line but I felt we didn't get enough of them, I wanted to experience more time reading them, getting to know them more, wondering what they would have done or felt in certain situations which arose throughout the book. I love a good UGLY cry but this story is so sad, it even left me reeling but I won't take away stars for that because we each have our own way of dealing with what occurs in this book and I thoroughly recommend you read this amazing, wonderful story. Not one to be missed.
When you have finished a book and realise you need to get your review done asap to capture all those amazing feelings you got to experience whilst reading it - then you know you've hit a good one. Beautifully written and a good all round family orientated story, as soon as I got past the first couple of chapters I just knew I was going to fall in love.
Ok so here we go- Peyton and Colton are brother and sister and are really, really close. They move to California and they both end up married -Colton adores and loves his wife but Peyton is not so lucky, she ends up with a selfish SOB. Colton enlists in the army and this whole process affects the very future of them both in so many tragic ways you wouldn't believe. Colton's wife is pregnant when he leaves and Peyton is there for her every step of the way on this journey of motherhood to be. I experienced so many feeling and emotions when reading this book - happiness, turmoil, anger, sadness, devastation and then maybe a touch of happiness again. To be honest by the end of this story my heart had been put through the ringer that many times I didn't know what to think.
My most favourite parts in this book was when Peyton wrote her journal - poignant, beautiful, and utterly heart breaking in places, I found this was so well done. I have never read this author before but I certainly loved this book and the way she bought the characters personalities out of the page and into your heart. What made it even more personal was that some of this was written from her own experiences but you don't find that out until the book is done and then when you realise this it makes you stop and THINK and ponder, reflect on the whole story again !! I have a few little niggles, they are only small ones and they are only in my opinion- but the characters of Colton and Hunter were massive to this story line but I felt we didn't get enough of them, I wanted to experience more time reading them, getting to know them more, wondering what they would have done or felt in certain situations which arose throughout the book. I love a good UGLY cry but this story is so sad, it even left me reeling but I won't take away stars for that because we each have our own way of dealing with what occurs in this book and I thoroughly recommend you read this amazing, wonderful story. Not one to be missed.
April 12, 2016
"It was like breathing deep only to realize I was submerged under water. I was drowning, and there wasn't a damn thing I could do about it."
I will be the first to tell you that I'm a very emotional person. Certain books get to me--get me right in the feels. This book grabbed ahold of my emotions and ran!
I knew just from reading the blurb that this story was going to hard to read. Not because you can clearly tell that there would be tragedy, but because I knew it involved children.
That gets me every single time!
"I know the grass isn't always greener on the other side. Your grass is only as green as you water it and all that. But what if, in this instance, it really is greener on the other side?"
Peyton is an absolute wonderful character. She's complex, but also so relatable. She tries to stay strong no matter what, but life isn't always easy.
Her pain, as well as her growth, within this story is heartbreakingly beautiful. She keeps getting knocked down, but she somehow finds the strength the keep going.
Mainly because her life was flipped upside down by two, sweet babies.
"You get one life. One chance. What are you going to do with it?"
I felt many things during this book:
Heartbreak.
Loss.
Anger.
Joy.
Compassion.
But most of all, I felt myself slipping into Peyton's shoes and wondering what I would do if my life changed just as fast as her's did. I think I would have been the same way.
Jen Cousineau wrote a book that could very well be anyone's life story. Being a mother, myself, this story brought so many things to life for me.
Live life to the fullest...every day.
Take nothing for granted.
You never know what tomorrow brings.
"Embrace life. You only have one shot at it, you might as well go for it. Make it worth it."
To My Loves is very much a love story, but maybe not your normal one. The love within this story belongs to a family. Not all of them blood related.
The love that is shared within this book is one that should be cherished and given to everyone. I praise Jen for this wonderful story!
Even though I read the last page (and chapter) of this book with tears in my eyes, I also smiled because the ending is perfect.
What started out as a story about a girl who thought her life was over, ended with a woman who finally found her way home.
Beautiful!
"I'll always catch you, Peyton."
April 16, 2016
Okay, so I think I should give you a service announcement: Tissues. That's right. TISSUES. Have lots of them on hand. I was reaching for them because I was crying at regular intervals. And not the graceful sobs of a lady but the ugly balling-my-eyes-out-and-wipe-my-nose-on-my-sleeve. So consider yourselves warned! :)
Now this story is nothing like anything I've read. It is gut wrenching and heart constricting. And while it is so hauntingly sad, there are so many beautiful moments that touch your soul and draw a happy tear from your eye. My favourite have to be the journal entries that Peyton writes to her nieces. She writes everything to them; the things they did that do, memories of her brother and sister in law and things that wishes for them. It is sweetest and most beautiful expression of love.
Peyton is dealt a difficult hand. She suffers not one, not two but three major tragedies. And all at the same time as her relationship crumbles. I have to say, Peyton does an incredible job holding it all together. I'm not sure how I would cope under similar circumstances. But she isn't alone. Her best friend Taylor and her partner Ashton are there for her. And Hunter. Ah, Hunter. I adore him! The most kindest and compassionate man who is selfless and giving. My favorite part is when Hunter takes charge and takes care of everyone. Brownie points!
*"Let me take care of this."
His large, calloused hands rest on my shoulders. I can feel the heat from his hands seep into my skin, and all I can think of is a heated blanket.*
Despite all the tragedy that Peyton has been faced with, she has incredible strength and love. Even with all the tears, I definitely recommend reading this story. There are so many things to take from this tale. Life is fragile and precious. It's something we should never take for granted. The thing that hit me the most was how valuable time is. Time is the only commodity that we cannot buy. Once it's gone, it's gone for good. It cannot be recovered. That's why it is so important to never waste it. To never have regrets. So while we live our hectic lives, don't forget the little things. Have that extra slice of cake. Go and explore the world. And tell that special someone you love them. Because you never know when you'll get another chance. Live life because that's why we have it. To live.
Now this story is nothing like anything I've read. It is gut wrenching and heart constricting. And while it is so hauntingly sad, there are so many beautiful moments that touch your soul and draw a happy tear from your eye. My favourite have to be the journal entries that Peyton writes to her nieces. She writes everything to them; the things they did that do, memories of her brother and sister in law and things that wishes for them. It is sweetest and most beautiful expression of love.
Peyton is dealt a difficult hand. She suffers not one, not two but three major tragedies. And all at the same time as her relationship crumbles. I have to say, Peyton does an incredible job holding it all together. I'm not sure how I would cope under similar circumstances. But she isn't alone. Her best friend Taylor and her partner Ashton are there for her. And Hunter. Ah, Hunter. I adore him! The most kindest and compassionate man who is selfless and giving. My favorite part is when Hunter takes charge and takes care of everyone. Brownie points!
*"Let me take care of this."
His large, calloused hands rest on my shoulders. I can feel the heat from his hands seep into my skin, and all I can think of is a heated blanket.*
Despite all the tragedy that Peyton has been faced with, she has incredible strength and love. Even with all the tears, I definitely recommend reading this story. There are so many things to take from this tale. Life is fragile and precious. It's something we should never take for granted. The thing that hit me the most was how valuable time is. Time is the only commodity that we cannot buy. Once it's gone, it's gone for good. It cannot be recovered. That's why it is so important to never waste it. To never have regrets. So while we live our hectic lives, don't forget the little things. Have that extra slice of cake. Go and explore the world. And tell that special someone you love them. Because you never know when you'll get another chance. Live life because that's why we have it. To live.
April 22, 2016
I don't usually do the ugly cry. Don't get me wrong; it's not unusual for a good book to make me sniffle a little but for me to do the extended, full-on, tear-streaming, nose-running, tissue-box emptying ugly cry? Not really. This book made me ugly cry.
Peyton and her only brother, Colton, lose their parents when Peyton is just 18. It's just the first of a series of heartbreaking events that life throws at Peyton. How Peyton deals with these events is the crux of the story, which is told entirely from her point of view. This is not your standard romance story focusing only on Peyton's romantic love interest, but it IS still a love story: Peyton's love for her parents; for her brother, sister-in-law and twin nieces; for her friends; even for life itself.
The story was beautifully written (I especially loved the series of Peyton's journal entries to her nieces) and flowed so smoothly I ended up reading it in one sitting. The characters were well developed with several wonderful secondary characters. Though I did question a bit how articulate the children were for their ages, it's a small caveat. As for the plot, I remember thinking along the way, "Can't this woman catch a break?" But life can be like that, and that's the point. No one knows what life has in store for them, so make sure you're making the most of your life, not just existing.
It's a story I'm still thinking about several days later--the mark of a great read in my opinion--and I'll be looking for more books from this author. So 5 stars and a highly recommend from me on this one.
Just remember to have your tissue box handy.
Peyton and her only brother, Colton, lose their parents when Peyton is just 18. It's just the first of a series of heartbreaking events that life throws at Peyton. How Peyton deals with these events is the crux of the story, which is told entirely from her point of view. This is not your standard romance story focusing only on Peyton's romantic love interest, but it IS still a love story: Peyton's love for her parents; for her brother, sister-in-law and twin nieces; for her friends; even for life itself.
The story was beautifully written (I especially loved the series of Peyton's journal entries to her nieces) and flowed so smoothly I ended up reading it in one sitting. The characters were well developed with several wonderful secondary characters. Though I did question a bit how articulate the children were for their ages, it's a small caveat. As for the plot, I remember thinking along the way, "Can't this woman catch a break?" But life can be like that, and that's the point. No one knows what life has in store for them, so make sure you're making the most of your life, not just existing.
It's a story I'm still thinking about several days later--the mark of a great read in my opinion--and I'll be looking for more books from this author. So 5 stars and a highly recommend from me on this one.
Just remember to have your tissue box handy.
July 25, 2016
Holy cow!!!! I cried and cried at the end. Do not read without a box of tissues!!! This story is amazing and it's actually my first book by Jen. I just can't get over what happens to Peyton. I absolutely love the cover and at the end of the book Jen says that it's her girls with her best friend on the cover.
Peyton is an amazing character and she grows throughout the book. What she agrees to do for her brother and sister-in-law is a selfless gift (she hopes she never has to actually do because she wants her brother and sister-in-law raising their own children and her the loving and spoiling aunt. Unfortunately things don't workout that way and she becomes guardian until her brother returns from his deployment. Unfortunately again Peyton loses someone she loves and becomes And full guardian for the twins.
She becomes depressed and can barely survive but does ok, once her husband, who is a selfish man, learns she is the guardian, well let's just say that he finally lets her go (after cheating on her because he has "needs") with a divorce. After a year she moves the twins back home where she and her brother grew up. She's with her best friend who helps her raise the twins and actually falls in love. Well after a few years, Peyton has seizure and its discovered she has an advanced stage inoperable tumor in her brain. She decides to live her final days her way.
Let's just stop here, I cried and my kids thought something else was wrong with me. This is an awesome book, although if you're pregnant don't read this until well after you've had your baby. Great book! Can't wait to read another!
Peyton is an amazing character and she grows throughout the book. What she agrees to do for her brother and sister-in-law is a selfless gift (she hopes she never has to actually do because she wants her brother and sister-in-law raising their own children and her the loving and spoiling aunt. Unfortunately things don't workout that way and she becomes guardian until her brother returns from his deployment. Unfortunately again Peyton loses someone she loves and becomes And full guardian for the twins.
She becomes depressed and can barely survive but does ok, once her husband, who is a selfish man, learns she is the guardian, well let's just say that he finally lets her go (after cheating on her because he has "needs") with a divorce. After a year she moves the twins back home where she and her brother grew up. She's with her best friend who helps her raise the twins and actually falls in love. Well after a few years, Peyton has seizure and its discovered she has an advanced stage inoperable tumor in her brain. She decides to live her final days her way.
Let's just stop here, I cried and my kids thought something else was wrong with me. This is an awesome book, although if you're pregnant don't read this until well after you've had your baby. Great book! Can't wait to read another!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 7, 2016
Peyton is a writer who had made the move from Wisconsin to California to be with her brother Colton who had joined the services. Since he was the last of her family she decided to stick by his side and keep their close bond that they always have had. After moving to California she met her neighbor Julia who eventually married Colton. YAY! After time she had met her husband Jesse who had wooed her until she finally caved.
After years of trying Julia and Colton finally find out they are pregnant! Shortly after Colton finds out that he is being deployed and had asked Peyton to look after his family. Even though Colton was deployed and unable to be there, it was amazing to read the experiences Julia and Peyton went through together, and when they find out what they are having I jumped for joy!
I have so much to reflect after but I have decided that the reader should be surprised as I was while reading this story. I never once would have guessed what would happen next and it made me appreciate the story even more. You will get an ending that completes the story and with no worries of having the dreaded cliff hanger.
I do have to applaud the author Jen – how you can write something so heart wrenchingly great is beyond words. I never have cried while reading a story but this one had them flowing like a freaking faucet. I feel like I always say this but this has to be by far my favorite book I have read by you so far!
After years of trying Julia and Colton finally find out they are pregnant! Shortly after Colton finds out that he is being deployed and had asked Peyton to look after his family. Even though Colton was deployed and unable to be there, it was amazing to read the experiences Julia and Peyton went through together, and when they find out what they are having I jumped for joy!
I have so much to reflect after but I have decided that the reader should be surprised as I was while reading this story. I never once would have guessed what would happen next and it made me appreciate the story even more. You will get an ending that completes the story and with no worries of having the dreaded cliff hanger.
I do have to applaud the author Jen – how you can write something so heart wrenchingly great is beyond words. I never have cried while reading a story but this one had them flowing like a freaking faucet. I feel like I always say this but this has to be by far my favorite book I have read by you so far!
April 8, 2016
Wow what an emotional ride this one was for me! Best damn book I've read all year!! I wish there was a way of giving more than 5 stars because it's worth so much more than that!! I was hooked from the first paragraph and it only got better and better from there!!?
I will admit that with many personal issues in my life at the moment, I wasn't sure I was gonna finish this one. Not because it wast great but because it was very close to home so I pretty much sobbed from 81% till the end! But I did finish it and I'm glad I did!!
Here I sit hours after finishing and the snot isn't running down my face any longer but my eyes are still red and swollen and my heart is just finally beginning to beat again. There's no ugly cry with this book. You surpass ugly crying in the first quarter of the book! By the end? It's more of demonic sobbing that comes out of you!!
This story is like no other I've read! It's so damn tragic but yet so beautiful in the light. There's so much we can each learn from this book. Always remember that tomorrow isn't promised so make sure you tell those around you today how much you love them!! Good things are worth fighting for so fight!!!
You wanna know more? Read the damn book! Keep the tissues close and the wine even closer!!
I will admit that with many personal issues in my life at the moment, I wasn't sure I was gonna finish this one. Not because it wast great but because it was very close to home so I pretty much sobbed from 81% till the end! But I did finish it and I'm glad I did!!
Here I sit hours after finishing and the snot isn't running down my face any longer but my eyes are still red and swollen and my heart is just finally beginning to beat again. There's no ugly cry with this book. You surpass ugly crying in the first quarter of the book! By the end? It's more of demonic sobbing that comes out of you!!
This story is like no other I've read! It's so damn tragic but yet so beautiful in the light. There's so much we can each learn from this book. Always remember that tomorrow isn't promised so make sure you tell those around you today how much you love them!! Good things are worth fighting for so fight!!!
You wanna know more? Read the damn book! Keep the tissues close and the wine even closer!!
April 23, 2016
To My Loves by Jen Cousineau
Peyton and Colton are brother and sister and are extremely close close. They move to California after their parents pass away and they both do get married. Colton adores and loves his wife but, Peyton is not so lucky, she ends up with a selfish jerk. Peyton finds out by accident that her husband Jesse is cheating on her. Colton enlists in the Army and that affects their future in a lot of ways. Colton and his wife Julia are expecting a baby then, Colton gets his orders for deployment. Peyton said she would be there to help Julia through everything. Colton and Julia decide to make Peyton Guardian in case anything happened. Julia found out after Colton left that she was having twin girls. Peyton doesn't spend much time at home anymore. I felt so many feelings and emotions while reading this book - happiness, turmoil, anger, sadness, devastation and then maybe a touch of happiness again. If you want to know more, you need to get this book. I highly recommend this book. I truly loved this book!! This is a totally awesome book Jen Cousineau!!
Peyton and Colton are brother and sister and are extremely close close. They move to California after their parents pass away and they both do get married. Colton adores and loves his wife but, Peyton is not so lucky, she ends up with a selfish jerk. Peyton finds out by accident that her husband Jesse is cheating on her. Colton enlists in the Army and that affects their future in a lot of ways. Colton and his wife Julia are expecting a baby then, Colton gets his orders for deployment. Peyton said she would be there to help Julia through everything. Colton and Julia decide to make Peyton Guardian in case anything happened. Julia found out after Colton left that she was having twin girls. Peyton doesn't spend much time at home anymore. I felt so many feelings and emotions while reading this book - happiness, turmoil, anger, sadness, devastation and then maybe a touch of happiness again. If you want to know more, you need to get this book. I highly recommend this book. I truly loved this book!! This is a totally awesome book Jen Cousineau!!
April 13, 2016
****WARNING - TISSUES NEEDED FOR THIS BOOK ****
WOW. Just WOW that is where I am right now I am still speechless. WHY are we only allowed 5 stars? This book is for sure a 10 Star read in my eyes. What an emotional roller coaster this book took me on. I swear it is the best freaking book I have read to date this year. I am just in awe of this authors talent to not only give you a story that pulls you in from the first page but has you hooked throughout and wanting more and more. Even when you are breaking down in tears because your heart is hurting you still continue reading. When tragedy strikes again for Peyton you are still wanting more and hoping that she can finally get something happy out of life after all the pain she has been through.
This story really hit home with me on some of the events that happened within this story (I'm not giving anything away) All I can say is if you do not mind an emotional ride and want to be engrossed in a story then this is for sure the book for you. I know this one will stick with me for a while to come.
WOW. Just WOW that is where I am right now I am still speechless. WHY are we only allowed 5 stars? This book is for sure a 10 Star read in my eyes. What an emotional roller coaster this book took me on. I swear it is the best freaking book I have read to date this year. I am just in awe of this authors talent to not only give you a story that pulls you in from the first page but has you hooked throughout and wanting more and more. Even when you are breaking down in tears because your heart is hurting you still continue reading. When tragedy strikes again for Peyton you are still wanting more and hoping that she can finally get something happy out of life after all the pain she has been through.
This story really hit home with me on some of the events that happened within this story (I'm not giving anything away) All I can say is if you do not mind an emotional ride and want to be engrossed in a story then this is for sure the book for you. I know this one will stick with me for a while to come.
April 12, 2016
Let me begin this review by saying you better grab a box of tissues before you begin this book, because you are going to need them. ‘To My Loves’ is one of the most beautiful stories I have ever read. Peyton is such a strong, brave, beautiful woman and a character I am sure many people will look up to and relate to. She has been dealt one hell of a hand in life, but she deals with it in such a heroic way. Life just keeps trying to push Peyton over but she tackles everything life throws at her, fighting fire with fire.
Jen Cousineau’s writing is beautiful, emotional, motivational, and powerful. I couldn’t put it down. ‘To My Loves’ made me cry, laugh, and learn so much about my own life that I could never even begin to express my gratitude for. I thought Jen’s characters were strong, relatable and captivating.
The plot line was immediately addictive and pulled me in. ‘To My Loves’ was a brilliant, captivating, emotional masterpiece that pulled at the heart strings and upped the stakes on plot twists. I cannot wait to read more from Jen Cousineau.
Jen Cousineau’s writing is beautiful, emotional, motivational, and powerful. I couldn’t put it down. ‘To My Loves’ made me cry, laugh, and learn so much about my own life that I could never even begin to express my gratitude for. I thought Jen’s characters were strong, relatable and captivating.
The plot line was immediately addictive and pulled me in. ‘To My Loves’ was a brilliant, captivating, emotional masterpiece that pulled at the heart strings and upped the stakes on plot twists. I cannot wait to read more from Jen Cousineau.
July 7, 2016
5 tissue box read
Beautifully written with some wonderful characters, while not a standard romance story To My Loves still is a love story, just about all the kinds of love we have in our lives.
This was an ugly cry book for me and I NEVER ugly cry. Tearing up yes, but multiple tissue cries, no. I loved the journal entries to Peyton's nieces and the story flowed so smoothly I read it in one sitting. One (small) quibble I had was regarding whether some of the language the children used was appropriate for their ages. And while there was a lot of heart break, that you need to make sure you live your life to the fullest because no one can know what's coming is what the book is trying to tell us.
I still think about this story days after finishing, which to my mind is one of the hallmarks of a great read. I'll be looking for more books from this author.
Beautifully written with some wonderful characters, while not a standard romance story To My Loves still is a love story, just about all the kinds of love we have in our lives.
This was an ugly cry book for me and I NEVER ugly cry. Tearing up yes, but multiple tissue cries, no. I loved the journal entries to Peyton's nieces and the story flowed so smoothly I read it in one sitting. One (small) quibble I had was regarding whether some of the language the children used was appropriate for their ages. And while there was a lot of heart break, that you need to make sure you live your life to the fullest because no one can know what's coming is what the book is trying to tell us.
I still think about this story days after finishing, which to my mind is one of the hallmarks of a great read. I'll be looking for more books from this author.
April 20, 2016
There are so many things to say about this novel, yet there is also so very little. The reason for there being so very little is because I can’t form words to say how good this book was. I just finished it and I didn't want it to end.
This one is a definite must read. You won't want to put it down because I honestly couldn't. You will want to have tissues ready, but also be prepared to smile. This story will remain with me for a very long time. It has left me with a feeling I can’t explain. I know there won't be another book that will even come close to this one. I don't know what more I can say except read it and enjoy.
I, Amber McCarty (Imaginative Dreams), was given a copy for an honest review.
This one is a definite must read. You won't want to put it down because I honestly couldn't. You will want to have tissues ready, but also be prepared to smile. This story will remain with me for a very long time. It has left me with a feeling I can’t explain. I know there won't be another book that will even come close to this one. I don't know what more I can say except read it and enjoy.
I, Amber McCarty (Imaginative Dreams), was given a copy for an honest review.
April 15, 2016
I received this book as an exchange of an honest review.
If I could, I'd give 6 stars for this book.
I have no words to begin to describe how much I loved this story.
Tissues are definitely needed.
Peyton underwent many losses and disappointments in her life, but with time things seem to settle for her, and when Hunter finally has the courage to open up to her, a bad event appears and changes the whole course of things.
A beautiful and heartbreaking story. I just loved all the characters, except for Jesse, of course! The twins are beautiful and fun.
I honestly wish a happy ending, but I believe there was no way to end this story otherwise.
Again Jen managed to convey many emotions in one story.
If I could, I'd give 6 stars for this book.
I have no words to begin to describe how much I loved this story.
Tissues are definitely needed.
Peyton underwent many losses and disappointments in her life, but with time things seem to settle for her, and when Hunter finally has the courage to open up to her, a bad event appears and changes the whole course of things.
A beautiful and heartbreaking story. I just loved all the characters, except for Jesse, of course! The twins are beautiful and fun.
I honestly wish a happy ending, but I believe there was no way to end this story otherwise.
Again Jen managed to convey many emotions in one story.
April 24, 2016
I did not expect the emotions this book would pull out of me. It is a gripping tale of Peyton's life, and how you have to be strong no matter what life throws your way.
Peyton endures divorce, death, joy, happiness, and unconditional love. This story will require a full box of tissues, but it is worth the puffy eyes and red nose. The journal entries in the book MAKE the book.
If you have read other books by Jen Cousineau, this is different, but in a wonderful way. I highly recommend To My Loves to all lovers of books. This overly emotional story is breath taking.
Ashley
Book Crazy Gals
Peyton endures divorce, death, joy, happiness, and unconditional love. This story will require a full box of tissues, but it is worth the puffy eyes and red nose. The journal entries in the book MAKE the book.
If you have read other books by Jen Cousineau, this is different, but in a wonderful way. I highly recommend To My Loves to all lovers of books. This overly emotional story is breath taking.
Ashley
Book Crazy Gals
April 10, 2016
OMG! This story was such a tear jerker! I couldn't put it down. Colton and Peyton end up losing their parents and now as they are older it seems life doesn't get better. Sure they have they friends/family, but turn of events happen. Just remember to take time out of your busy day to truly live!
I have not cried so much in so long. To see so much happen is unbearable. It makes you think deeply about your life. Karma seems to happen, but then there is life and you may sometimes question it.
I thought it was a great story, even though I wished things could have been different. The story has so many ups and downs, but makes you think twice. I hope everyone gets a chance to read it.
I have not cried so much in so long. To see so much happen is unbearable. It makes you think deeply about your life. Karma seems to happen, but then there is life and you may sometimes question it.
I thought it was a great story, even though I wished things could have been different. The story has so many ups and downs, but makes you think twice. I hope everyone gets a chance to read it.
April 19, 2016
A emotional rollercoaster
This was such a gut wrenching and emotional book. This was my first book from this author and I can honestly say it won't be my last. How much heartbreaking can one person take. I cried and bawled throughout this book. I would say it's not a book for a lot of people especially if you experience depression in your life. This book is filled with trials and tribulations. This author has such a amazing ability to bring the reader in and hold them hostage from beginning to end. I literally read this book in less than a hour. I highly recommend this if you love a good story and cry.
This was such a gut wrenching and emotional book. This was my first book from this author and I can honestly say it won't be my last. How much heartbreaking can one person take. I cried and bawled throughout this book. I would say it's not a book for a lot of people especially if you experience depression in your life. This book is filled with trials and tribulations. This author has such a amazing ability to bring the reader in and hold them hostage from beginning to end. I literally read this book in less than a hour. I highly recommend this if you love a good story and cry.
July 28, 2016
My heart is shattered. Broken into tiny pieces.
I ugly cried.
It's not fair. Peyton deserved so much in life and she was dealt a very crappy hand. God, I just can't even imagine. I'm still crying!
I'm literally speechless as I sit here to type this and find myself deleting things because I don't want to give much away. To me this was such a beautiful story and it makes me realize just how precious life is. How you should just live life and know your worth. If you're not happy only you have the power to change that.
Jen Cousineau - you have an amazing talent! Thank you for allowing me to read this!!
I ugly cried.
It's not fair. Peyton deserved so much in life and she was dealt a very crappy hand. God, I just can't even imagine. I'm still crying!
I'm literally speechless as I sit here to type this and find myself deleting things because I don't want to give much away. To me this was such a beautiful story and it makes me realize just how precious life is. How you should just live life and know your worth. If you're not happy only you have the power to change that.
Jen Cousineau - you have an amazing talent! Thank you for allowing me to read this!!
April 5, 2016
I gave this book 5 stars!
I'm on an emotional roller coaster with this book. From the start to finish you will need a box of tissues, a glass of wine, and a comfortable spot. You will not be able to put it down.
Jen, I think this is some of your best work. I'm already having withdrawals. Please tell me you plan on doing Taylor and maybe a Hunter on stories!!
This book you will fall in love with the main character as well as many of the secondary characters. You will have withdrawals! The emotions are high and it's like no other book out there. I highly recommend this book.
I'm on an emotional roller coaster with this book. From the start to finish you will need a box of tissues, a glass of wine, and a comfortable spot. You will not be able to put it down.
Jen, I think this is some of your best work. I'm already having withdrawals. Please tell me you plan on doing Taylor and maybe a Hunter on stories!!
This book you will fall in love with the main character as well as many of the secondary characters. You will have withdrawals! The emotions are high and it's like no other book out there. I highly recommend this book.
April 6, 2016
To My Loves is an emotional read. I usually just get teary-eyed or shed a tear or two when a scene gets to me while reading a book, but with this book, I cried. With my shoulders shaking and loud sobs. Not once. Not twice. No, Jen just couldn't give us one heartbreaking turn of events. She gave us a LOT.
Now let's talk about the main character. I won't go into detail, but I liked the development on Peyton's character. I admit, I didn't like her at first. I thought she was really stupid. Naive. Idealistic. Did I mention stupid? But as the story progressed, Peyton grew stronger and smarter.
Now let's talk about the main character. I won't go into detail, but I liked the development on Peyton's character. I admit, I didn't like her at first. I thought she was really stupid. Naive. Idealistic. Did I mention stupid? But as the story progressed, Peyton grew stronger and smarter.
April 12, 2016
Such an emotional read. At one point, I put the book down and didn't think I could finish it. So much happens in this book and poor Peyton keeps getting more and more bad luck. I can't help but want to hug her. Nap happy that she had her best friend Taylor, Ashton and Hunter there for her and the girls. All I can say is wow!!! Grab yourselves some tissues when you sit down and read this. I love how the cover is actually the authors girls! Amazing emotional read!
Received ARC in exchange for honest opinion
Received ARC in exchange for honest opinion
December 14, 2016
When I want to recall when it was my last ugly cry read I need to go way back in time because they generally leaves me with a very bitter taste but this book is worthy some salty tears. Beautifully written, heart wrenching and with a deep message about crucial moments when we need to make decisions and we are at a cross road. Enjoy life at its most or give up? This story is amazing and I highly recommend it to anyone willing to really enjoy an emotional ride.
Do yourself a favour and read it. It is worth it!
Do yourself a favour and read it. It is worth it!
Read
December 31, 2016Heartbreakingly Beautiful
Sometimes our lives are altered in way in which we would have never imagine. And sometimes the changes that seem like God is playing a cruel joke on us, but it is really a blessing in disguise. And sometimes, life is just plain unfair. This book touches on all those points, while taking the reader on an emotional journey. My heart was repeatedly broken, repaired, and broken again...all while I was being filled with a sense of love, hope, and strength. Wonderful story.
Sometimes our lives are altered in way in which we would have never imagine. And sometimes the changes that seem like God is playing a cruel joke on us, but it is really a blessing in disguise. And sometimes, life is just plain unfair. This book touches on all those points, while taking the reader on an emotional journey. My heart was repeatedly broken, repaired, and broken again...all while I was being filled with a sense of love, hope, and strength. Wonderful story.
April 6, 2016
Wow! This book had me crying through the whole story. Peyton is such a strong, loving, and caring woman. It broke my heart every time something happened. This is a heart warming and touching story. It will have you in tears so much. It also have so much love in it too. Definitely an one-click buy. If you want something to that will touch your heart then this is the story for you.
Review by Chantelle
Review by Chantelle
January 21, 2017
A spectacular "work of fiction with real life events" book. ("Words used by the author to describe how To My Loves came about"). From the start of the book to the very end, this book was a roller coaster of emotions (A lot of ups and downs with a few wicked curves thrown in). I think this is a must read book. My only suggestion is, if you are an emotional reader, do not read this book in public if you don't want to explain why you are crying.
April 6, 2016
Oh, what an emotional read. There are many ugly cry, heart wrenching moments is this book. Reading this story and the reasoning behind it being written gives me an appreciation for my life. I cannot fathom having to go through all of these life altering situations. The people connection is off the charts. Speechless and just, wow!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews