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Love and Truth
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*This is a newly edited 2nd edition of the original novel, Love and Truth. As of October 2014 all errors and typos from the 1st edition have been corrected by the new editor and it has beautiful new cover art.*
Eighteen year old Nicole Harrison spent her high school years devoted to academics and dance leaving little time for a life, let alone a boyfriend. After years of dreaming, she boldly leaves her world behind in order to expand her dancing abilities and horizon in Okinawa, Japan.
After a bad break-up that left him reeling, American born Jonathan Hayes has immersed himself in a playboy lifestyle in his mother's home country of Japan. That is, until the night he sees the beautiful and innocent Nicole on the balcony of his neighbor's home. One chance moment and one unexpected girl causes Jonathan to question his bad boy ways once and for all.
As Nicole learns to navigate an unfamiliar country, can she also learn to navigate a complex relationship? And will Jonathan's past continue to catch up with him, or will he be able to show Nicole the truth of loyal love?
*This is a newly edited 2nd edition of the original novel, Love and Truth. As of October 2014 all errors and typos from the 1st edition have been corrected by the new editor and it has beautiful new cover art.*
Eighteen year old Nicole Harrison spent her high school years devoted to academics and dance leaving little time for a life, let alone a boyfriend. After years of dreaming, she boldly leaves her world behind in order to expand her dancing abilities and horizon in Okinawa, Japan.
After a bad break-up that left him reeling, American born Jonathan Hayes has immersed himself in a playboy lifestyle in his mother's home country of Japan. That is, until the night he sees the beautiful and innocent Nicole on the balcony of his neighbor's home. One chance moment and one unexpected girl causes Jonathan to question his bad boy ways once and for all.
As Nicole learns to navigate an unfamiliar country, can she also learn to navigate a complex relationship? And will Jonathan's past continue to catch up with him, or will he be able to show Nicole the truth of loyal love?
292 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 30, 2013
15 people are currently reading
1889 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 84 reviews
February 6, 2013
"No turning back, no regrets, and no second guessing. I knew at that moment, gazing into the sea-green ocean that my life was about to begin."
Love and Truth is a story about self discovery, life, love, pride, and second chances. It is a story that will capture your attention from page one and keep it until the final word. It is a story that will bring out a crazy mess of emotion in you. And it is a story that will have jonesing to jump on a plane and head to Okinawa, Japan. Like, yesterday.
Nicole has just graduated high school and is ready for something new and exciting. Despite the hesitation and confusion from her parents and best friend, she decides she's going to do a foreign exchange dance program in Japan.
"I get that you were born there, but you were an infant. You lived there for six months. Actually, no you didn’t. You ate, slept, shit...then ate, slept and shit some more. That’s all you did. You were a baby! It’s not like you’re going to go back and reminisce about your childhood. Oh, wow, look over there, that’s where I was born, in that hospital and look, there it is, the nursery where me and a bunch of other screaming, crying, eating, and shitting babies were kept until our parents took us home!” -Annie
Oh, Annie... how I love this girl! She is Nicole's best friend and is a total riot! She had me laughing out loud on a consistent basis! She swears like a sailor, says whatever is on her mind, but is fiercely loyal and always completely honest. Basically, my kind of girl and the perfect kind of friend.
So once Nicole gets to Japan, she meets a boy, well, a MAN! Jonathan Hayes. He is American, but has lived in Japan his entire life. Jonathan is "beautiful, and his smile was insane." Right away Nicole is intrigued by him, she's inexperienced with guys and has never been affected by one like she is by him. Their connection is undeniable and they are drawn to each other. So, right away her guard is up, but Jonathan is determined to convince her to give their relationship a chance.
Nicole was a feisty little thing and even though she has been a "good girl" her entire life, she doesn't take any crap. She knows how to stand up for herself and is very true to who she is. I loved that even when she is in the minority about something (granny panties anyone?) she totally owns it and doesn't care. Although she has her moments of rash decision making and stubbornness, she was able to move forward and take responsibility. Jonathan was the perfect guy for her. I love him! Even though he is completely taken with her, he can call her on her mistakes and vice versa. He was able to help her get out of her head and live in the moment, with him.
Their story is one hell of a wild ride! I was white-knuckling it, holding on for dear life and praying I would make it off in one piece by the end. I thought I knew where this book was going after the first couple chapters, then by 50% ish my thoughts changed and then I really thought I knew where it was going, then I was surprised a few more times... I never knew what was in store for Nicole and Jonathan. At times I thought their relationship was taking too many hits. I was getting whiplash from the ups and downs and felt like sometimes there was just too much going on. "Fuck me running backwards…" this is full of ANGST!
"We are always one step forward and two steps back, you and me. No matter what I do."
Love and Truth is different than anything I have read. Even though there were a few things I didn't love about it, there were so many things I did. It kept my attention the entire time and I stayed up until 5:30am finishing it! (Yes, those who know me know I keep crazy hours and 5:30am isn't unusual for me. BUT, I was on a road trip, functioning on barely any sleep in the first place AND had to be up early the next day. And I don't do early!) I absolutely loved the setting of the story and getting to learn about the Japanese culture and I would love to visit the beautiful places described in the book. This really made me think about second (and third :)...) chances and about not letting pride and fear get in the way of a good thing. It's definitely easier to be angry and upset than it is to step outside your comfort zone and give something a chance that may scare you.
"Only love and truth, okay? Only love and truth from now on. There’s nothing to be afraid of.”
I am so excited for more by Katy! She is definitely one to watch! I am beta-reading the novel she is currently writing, Therapy and it is FANTASTIC! <3
Want to read
April 13, 2013FREE on Amazon US today (4/13/2013).
January 4, 2013
I read this as a beta reader and I cannot give this book enough praise! It is geared towards young adults but this love story transcends and is something any age group can relate to. The story has it's ups and downs and definitely kept me on my seat to know how things were going to play out. Any book that can reach every range of emotion (including tears!) is a 5 star in my book :)
April 17, 2013
I am not really sure why everyone loved this book. Seriously, why? Both of the main characters were horrible in their own way. Jonathan was an abusive jerk who was WAY too controlling and scary, Nicole was just all over the place mess and not in a good way or a way that made sense to me. I mean take when she first met Jonathan's friends and the one friend who is a player and was just play hitting on Nicole said something and what does Jonathan do? He punches him in the face and starts an actual fight with his friend over what any reasonable guy should have been able to laugh off. That right there was red flag number 1. And he just continues with his horribly abusive controlling behavior the entire time they are together! I mean you should never be afraid of what the person who so called loves you will do to you physically. Not cool. I hated him. He is a smooth talker and neither one one of them ever acknowledges the abusive behavior and it is just fine. Not cool. Every time a guy talks to her does he almost kill them for as long as they live? I mean he doesn't seem to be able to handle it at all and I would have kicked him to the curb after that first incident. He will likely only get worse. And Nicole...well she is just ugh! I hated both of them.
Besides them being horrible, I also hated the writing style. It was terrible. There were like sentences about the future, so then I would think of it has been a week now, but then it comes right back to where we were and I was all ?? why is this doing this? If you move into the future shouldn't the story move there as well? Also every time something new came up Nicole had to mention how she looked it up and knows that it is x, y and z. Except she didn't know about not wearing your shoes inside which even I know and I have never really looking into Japanese culture. It seems like it would have been something you learned when doing your research. That and all of the conversations seemed so fake and forced. It was horrible. I have no idea why anyone gave this book 4 or 5 stars...it was just bad.
Besides them being horrible, I also hated the writing style. It was terrible. There were like sentences about the future, so then I would think of it has been a week now, but then it comes right back to where we were and I was all ?? why is this doing this? If you move into the future shouldn't the story move there as well? Also every time something new came up Nicole had to mention how she looked it up and knows that it is x, y and z. Except she didn't know about not wearing your shoes inside which even I know and I have never really looking into Japanese culture. It seems like it would have been something you learned when doing your research. That and all of the conversations seemed so fake and forced. It was horrible. I have no idea why anyone gave this book 4 or 5 stars...it was just bad.
February 23, 2013
A friend of mine recommended this book to me. She often finds me hidden gems to read, as I am always looking for that ‘something different’ kind of book. I read the synopsis to Love and Truth and instantly felt like I was going to love it. I was so excited, that I even contacted the author before I read it, to tell her how keen I was to read it. Why was I so ramped up about this book? Well… Love and Truth centers around Nicole and Jonathan. Both characters come from a Japanese mother and an American father. This is what sealed the deal for me reading this as I also come from the same ethnic background. I was interested in seeing how Kathryn Vance-Perez was going to work the culture and ethnicity into the story line.
WOOHOO!!!!!
I was completely able to relate to Nicole’s character in that like her, I have never been to my mother’s country. I have been exposed to many aspects of Japanese culture but never been immersed in it. I appreciated how Vance-Perez did not overdue, so to speak, Nicole’s knowledge and lack thereof of the Japanese way of life— especially Okinawan life. Nicole’s appreciation for her culture and background was so refreshing and vibrant. It may seem odd to notice but at times it is difficult to immerse yourself in two different cultures. One usually is more dominant than the other – depending on where you end up living. This was the case in Love and Truth. Nicole grew up in America and therefore was aware of her Japanese side but did not know too much about it. Jonathan on the other hand grew up in Okinawa and was well aware and practiced in Japanese culture and mannerisms.
When Nicole and Jonathan come together it is like opposite poles of a magnet. No matter how much you try to keep them apart they are undeniably attracted to each other. Coming from the same cultures but growing up with the one the other had not made for the perfect pairing—or did it? Although the couple had so much in common and so much to bond them, there was the underlying feeling (at least to me) that Nicole and Jonathan were almost envious of the other’s upbringing. I suppose it is more of a sense of being denied part of whom they are…
I loved that this story’s sense of naivety did not just center on a sexual nature. It went further. It was about finding who you are, where you needed to go, and who would be there to share it with you. I also really appreciated that this naivety was not one sided. Both Nicole and Jonathan both had growing to do and had choices to make.
Kathryn Vance-Perez added the perfect little tid bits of Japanese culture that would not overwhelm a reader who is not familiar but would make those who are familiar smile. I found myself often remembering stories that my grandmother told me or remembering things my great grandfather used to do with me as a young child.
So Love and Truth was a refreshing story to read. I without a doubt recommend this read. And I cannot wait to read more from author Kathryn Vance- Perez.
April 1, 2013
Nicole is a ballerina from Texas, who has always just focused on her dancing. After high school she moves to Okinawa Japan for a dance program where she will live with a host family.
Kathryn Vance-Perez’s writing style had me experiencing Japan. Through her eyes my imagination was captivated. She described rooms, gardens and beaches with such ease I felt like I was traveling there through her eyes. She turned a place I only ever saw in my imagination as a military base into a beautiful vacation spot.
One of the most beautiful things about reading is when an author takes you to a destination that your mind will now see that way forever.
Nicole meets Jonathan very quickly. It is an instant attraction. This is Nicole’s first love and she is guarded and nervous about it. Jonathan sees Nicole on the balcony and it is pretty much love at first sight for him. He struggles with this idea of trying to do what is right by Nicole and in doing so he pushes her away. It is he fight to hold on that holds this together.
Beside a ton of swoon worthy lines there were other things that the author did that just made me smile. Nicole was reading a book, and it was inferred that she was reading Slammed. I love when authors subtlety pay respect to other authors books. It makes me smile.
There was also a kick ass best friend. That relationship is pivotal for me in so many ways and I loved Nicole’s bff. She has great advice, is sassy and a bit of a horn devil and I loved her.
Oh and lastly I picked this book up for a steal at only .99 cents, what an amazing deal.
Kathryn Vance-Perez’s writing style had me experiencing Japan. Through her eyes my imagination was captivated. She described rooms, gardens and beaches with such ease I felt like I was traveling there through her eyes. She turned a place I only ever saw in my imagination as a military base into a beautiful vacation spot.
One of the most beautiful things about reading is when an author takes you to a destination that your mind will now see that way forever.
Nicole meets Jonathan very quickly. It is an instant attraction. This is Nicole’s first love and she is guarded and nervous about it. Jonathan sees Nicole on the balcony and it is pretty much love at first sight for him. He struggles with this idea of trying to do what is right by Nicole and in doing so he pushes her away. It is he fight to hold on that holds this together.
Beside a ton of swoon worthy lines there were other things that the author did that just made me smile. Nicole was reading a book, and it was inferred that she was reading Slammed. I love when authors subtlety pay respect to other authors books. It makes me smile.
There was also a kick ass best friend. That relationship is pivotal for me in so many ways and I loved Nicole’s bff. She has great advice, is sassy and a bit of a horn devil and I loved her.
Oh and lastly I picked this book up for a steal at only .99 cents, what an amazing deal.
February 26, 2013
4.5 Beautiful Stars!!!
This is Kathryn's first novel and I have to say that it was a breath of fresh air. The setting for the majority of the book was in Okinawa and was described in beautiful and vivid detail. As a reader, I loved being taken out of America to discover this foreign land right along with Nicole. Katherine did a marvelous job of making me feel like I was there with the characters in the story, experiencing the culture and sights just as they did.
"No turning back, no regrets, and no second guessing. I knew at that moment, gazing into the sea-green ocean that my life was about to begin."
I found Nicole to be a strong character, sure of herself and ready to experience a new chapter of her life miles and miles away from her family. Her passion for dance and music led her to Okinawa to study in a prestigious dance program with a host family she would learn to love as dearly as her own. When she meets Jonathan, she is intrigued but also guarded. She's never had a boyfriend, never even been interested. He storms into her new life and she discovers things about love, relationships, and trust that were as foreign to her as the ancient Japanese island of Okinawa. Add in her spit-fire best friend back home, Annie, and her new host family's daughter, Emiko, and the story only intrigued me more.
"Only love and truth, okay? Only love and truth from now on.
There’s nothing to be afraid of.”
Kathryn's writing style was captivating and hooked me from the beginning. This novel was beautifully scripted and flowed quite effortlessly making it an enjoyable and unforgettable adventure. A true romance novel with the themes of music, dance, culture, independence, and young love woven so beautifully into her thoughtful words, Love and Truth is sure to be a new favorite for any reader looking for escape to an exotic and fictional world.
This is Kathryn's first novel and I have to say that it was a breath of fresh air. The setting for the majority of the book was in Okinawa and was described in beautiful and vivid detail. As a reader, I loved being taken out of America to discover this foreign land right along with Nicole. Katherine did a marvelous job of making me feel like I was there with the characters in the story, experiencing the culture and sights just as they did.
"No turning back, no regrets, and no second guessing. I knew at that moment, gazing into the sea-green ocean that my life was about to begin."
I found Nicole to be a strong character, sure of herself and ready to experience a new chapter of her life miles and miles away from her family. Her passion for dance and music led her to Okinawa to study in a prestigious dance program with a host family she would learn to love as dearly as her own. When she meets Jonathan, she is intrigued but also guarded. She's never had a boyfriend, never even been interested. He storms into her new life and she discovers things about love, relationships, and trust that were as foreign to her as the ancient Japanese island of Okinawa. Add in her spit-fire best friend back home, Annie, and her new host family's daughter, Emiko, and the story only intrigued me more.
"Only love and truth, okay? Only love and truth from now on.
There’s nothing to be afraid of.”
Kathryn's writing style was captivating and hooked me from the beginning. This novel was beautifully scripted and flowed quite effortlessly making it an enjoyable and unforgettable adventure. A true romance novel with the themes of music, dance, culture, independence, and young love woven so beautifully into her thoughtful words, Love and Truth is sure to be a new favorite for any reader looking for escape to an exotic and fictional world.
February 22, 2013
4.5 stars.
when i started reading this book, i couldnt put it down.
this is a book about love at first sight. some did believe it, some didn't.
i love the twists and the story line. the research or the experience of other culture (Japan) is great..
the support characters do well.. Nicole's courage is a plus.
i love how the characters felt real. they are not perfect. they also had their flaws..
i love JONATHAN HAYES. yes, even if he became an asshole when they broke up, but heck,
swoon worthy.. the groveling.. his belief about them, about their love..
the author really made her point about love and truth.
in every relationship there are always be trials..
and trust part is the always number 1 tested..
this book showed that even if you are shoved with the truth, and truth hurts you,
you always have the 'love' part to make it right..
when i started reading this book, i couldnt put it down.
this is a book about love at first sight. some did believe it, some didn't.
i love the twists and the story line. the research or the experience of other culture (Japan) is great..
the support characters do well.. Nicole's courage is a plus.
i love how the characters felt real. they are not perfect. they also had their flaws..
i love JONATHAN HAYES. yes, even if he became an asshole when they broke up, but heck,
swoon worthy.. the groveling.. his belief about them, about their love..
the author really made her point about love and truth.
in every relationship there are always be trials..
and trust part is the always number 1 tested..
this book showed that even if you are shoved with the truth, and truth hurts you,
you always have the 'love' part to make it right..
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 21, 2013
*Some spoilers (or quite a few) because I just need to rant about some important stuff.*
Alright, where to begin? I'm a bit torn between this book for a couple of reasons. First, the romantic side of me goes "HOW SWEET OF YOU JONATHAN" and then the not putting up with silly bull shit side is wondering how in the hell do people manage like this.
Okay, one at a time. Jonathan. A decent enough guy who smooth talks his way into Nicole's guarded heart. He says the right things, makes the audience go "AWW" at times (actually a lot of times...) and seems willing to own up to his past mistakes. He's very connected to his family and continues to live in honor of his father.
Yet, the icky side of Mr. Hayes or as Jerry Springer would put it, "his baggage". The guy is insanely overprotective of a girl he's hardly known and about destroyed Chandler for even looking at her (wonder whatever happened to the guy...)! I still don't get why he quit his job, whether it be a side one or not, for a girl he's known for all of a week, if that much (Maybe that's because I don't know love myself, so I'm TRYING to be open minded) He'll lash out against Nicole and she'll just...
Nicole is a different story altogether. She's well rounded, seems like a highly motivated girl in all, and has never experienced guys. While she doesn't put up with silliness going around her, she kinda lost it around Jonathan. She would get annoyed at him and all he had to do was put his mouth against hers and everything's alright (...what?). I do wish she struggled with him a bit more at the end instead of just giving into him so easily after he says I love you and all. But oh well.
So for no experienced guys part: She's stayed away with anything that has a Y chromosome, labeling them off as pigs, and then struts in Jonathan and what do you know? She's now the pig! For someone who's never cared for guys she really kept pushing herself onto Jonathan, a guy she's known for what... a week or two?
Now the best friends: I adored Annie. Probably my favorite character in the book aside from romantic Jonathan. I've seen that some have written her off as a bad influenced but I just don't see it. Sure she has a potty mouth, is a bit blunt for Nicole (only because she desperately needs some honesty flowing through her), and was a sweet friend when needed to be. I do wish there was some more of Hiro and Izo (and not just Izo at the end) and since Emiko was supposed to be hot for Hiro, I would have loved to seen some of that. But sadly, it's mostly one sided.
One more rant and I'm done: I felt like there was too much packed into this book that it made significant events down played in a way. The divorce, Leah, the dads, the grandmother, and the lack of her dancing education (the reason she's in Japan...) is all overwhelming or at least for me. However, Kathryn has some off the chart description skills for Japan and it was obvious that she went into full research mode for some detail that usually just skips over. So props to her on that.
How to sum this up? It's a sweet book overall, a bit unrealistic but that'd be asking for too much. I would definitely read her future books without a doubt (only because like the annoying blonde, I'm a sucker for sweet Jonathan too).
Alright, where to begin? I'm a bit torn between this book for a couple of reasons. First, the romantic side of me goes "HOW SWEET OF YOU JONATHAN" and then the not putting up with silly bull shit side is wondering how in the hell do people manage like this.
Okay, one at a time. Jonathan. A decent enough guy who smooth talks his way into Nicole's guarded heart. He says the right things, makes the audience go "AWW" at times (actually a lot of times...) and seems willing to own up to his past mistakes. He's very connected to his family and continues to live in honor of his father.
Yet, the icky side of Mr. Hayes or as Jerry Springer would put it, "his baggage". The guy is insanely overprotective of a girl he's hardly known and about destroyed Chandler for even looking at her (wonder whatever happened to the guy...)! I still don't get why he quit his job, whether it be a side one or not, for a girl he's known for all of a week, if that much (Maybe that's because I don't know love myself, so I'm TRYING to be open minded) He'll lash out against Nicole and she'll just...
Nicole is a different story altogether. She's well rounded, seems like a highly motivated girl in all, and has never experienced guys. While she doesn't put up with silliness going around her, she kinda lost it around Jonathan. She would get annoyed at him and all he had to do was put his mouth against hers and everything's alright (...what?). I do wish she struggled with him a bit more at the end instead of just giving into him so easily after he says I love you and all. But oh well.
So for no experienced guys part: She's stayed away with anything that has a Y chromosome, labeling them off as pigs, and then struts in Jonathan and what do you know? She's now the pig! For someone who's never cared for guys she really kept pushing herself onto Jonathan, a guy she's known for what... a week or two?
Now the best friends: I adored Annie. Probably my favorite character in the book aside from romantic Jonathan. I've seen that some have written her off as a bad influenced but I just don't see it. Sure she has a potty mouth, is a bit blunt for Nicole (only because she desperately needs some honesty flowing through her), and was a sweet friend when needed to be. I do wish there was some more of Hiro and Izo (and not just Izo at the end) and since Emiko was supposed to be hot for Hiro, I would have loved to seen some of that. But sadly, it's mostly one sided.
One more rant and I'm done: I felt like there was too much packed into this book that it made significant events down played in a way. The divorce, Leah, the dads, the grandmother, and the lack of her dancing education (the reason she's in Japan...) is all overwhelming or at least for me. However, Kathryn has some off the chart description skills for Japan and it was obvious that she went into full research mode for some detail that usually just skips over. So props to her on that.
How to sum this up? It's a sweet book overall, a bit unrealistic but that'd be asking for too much. I would definitely read her future books without a doubt (only because like the annoying blonde, I'm a sucker for sweet Jonathan too).
February 21, 2013
I was lucky enough to have the pleasure of getting to know Kathryn before this book was released and she gave me the opportunity to read it in exchange for an honest review and I could not be more pleased. I have grown to adore the writing style she uses and am now beta reading her next book 'Therapy'.
"Only love and truth, okay? Only love and truth from now on. There’s nothing to be afraid of.”
The cover of Love and Truth is everything I love; clean, simple and eye-catching.
“Okay, I can see that you’re set on this bat shit crazy adventure. You want to go Eat Love Pray, I can follow that.”
We begin the journey with the story of Nicole; 18 years old and completely dedicated to dance, so much so that she is taking the trip of a lifetime and heading to Japan for an exchange programme for Dancing. The last thing she expects is to meet someone who steals her heart.
"You have to break the bounds of your past and rewrite the story you've been telling yourself based on the experiences of others. You have to write your own story"
Enter Jonathan Hayes, an American living full time in Japan; her kind of man candy. He has it all with his good looks and charming personality it doesn't take long for a spark to develop between them. Nicole has never had a boyfriend and being affected by him in such a way is an eye opener for her especially as she is reluctant to give her heart away.
"No turning back, no regrets, and no second guessing. I knew at that moment, gazing into the sea-green ocean that my life was about to begin."
This story also has the perfect best friend, Annie. Oh My gosh she was a hoot to read, she literally has me snort laughing in parts and made me wish she was my best friend.
Nicole comes across as such a sweet girl, but you can tell she is fed up of being the good girl, she is ready to take chances and do things she never though where possible. I loved watching her grow and become such an amazing character throughout and that is where the writing really shone, you could clearly see the evolution of her.
“Why in the name of God do you wear these ugly ass granny panties? I swear it looks like you could parachute from the Dallas Lincoln Plaza with these and have a nice soft landing! Why don’t you get on the internet and apply your online shopping skills while purchasing some panties that do not look like they came from your Grans drawer?”
This is a true romance story that also follows the road of self discovery and coming into women hood and independence. This story was such a page turner that I never wanted it to end, it brings out feelings and you can really connect with the characters.
“No matter how hard I fought it, no matter how unreasonable or out of control it felt, I knew that Jonathan Hayes owned me, heart and soul.”
Original and page turning, this book is a must read for everyone and I hope to see Amazing things in Kathryn's future because she more than deserves it with the talent she shows.
"Only love and truth, okay? Only love and truth from now on. There’s nothing to be afraid of.”
The cover of Love and Truth is everything I love; clean, simple and eye-catching.
“Okay, I can see that you’re set on this bat shit crazy adventure. You want to go Eat Love Pray, I can follow that.”
We begin the journey with the story of Nicole; 18 years old and completely dedicated to dance, so much so that she is taking the trip of a lifetime and heading to Japan for an exchange programme for Dancing. The last thing she expects is to meet someone who steals her heart.
"You have to break the bounds of your past and rewrite the story you've been telling yourself based on the experiences of others. You have to write your own story"
Enter Jonathan Hayes, an American living full time in Japan; her kind of man candy. He has it all with his good looks and charming personality it doesn't take long for a spark to develop between them. Nicole has never had a boyfriend and being affected by him in such a way is an eye opener for her especially as she is reluctant to give her heart away.
"No turning back, no regrets, and no second guessing. I knew at that moment, gazing into the sea-green ocean that my life was about to begin."
This story also has the perfect best friend, Annie. Oh My gosh she was a hoot to read, she literally has me snort laughing in parts and made me wish she was my best friend.
Nicole comes across as such a sweet girl, but you can tell she is fed up of being the good girl, she is ready to take chances and do things she never though where possible. I loved watching her grow and become such an amazing character throughout and that is where the writing really shone, you could clearly see the evolution of her.
“Why in the name of God do you wear these ugly ass granny panties? I swear it looks like you could parachute from the Dallas Lincoln Plaza with these and have a nice soft landing! Why don’t you get on the internet and apply your online shopping skills while purchasing some panties that do not look like they came from your Grans drawer?”
This is a true romance story that also follows the road of self discovery and coming into women hood and independence. This story was such a page turner that I never wanted it to end, it brings out feelings and you can really connect with the characters.
“No matter how hard I fought it, no matter how unreasonable or out of control it felt, I knew that Jonathan Hayes owned me, heart and soul.”
Original and page turning, this book is a must read for everyone and I hope to see Amazing things in Kathryn's future because she more than deserves it with the talent she shows.
February 14, 2013
** _SPOILERS_ (and a lot of expletive filled ranting) **
REALLY?! Hard to like a book when the love interest is a complete douchetool. Jonathan was so horrendously unlikable. How have none of these reviews mentioned the fact that he's batshit crazy and Nicole should run far and fast. There are multiple occasions where Jonathan is physically and verbally abusive to her and its never addressed. There's no explanation for it, there's no attempt at mentioning it or getting any kind of help for it. NOPE, ITS A GODDAMN TURN ON. Once they make kissyfaces and makeup, the abuse issue complete disappears, never to be brought up again (that would only mess up the bs HEA) That combined with him flipping a shit when they break up - selling his beach house, quitting his full-time job, refusing to play his piano and drinking his ass off at house parties...for a girl he's known all of two weeks? Are you fucking kidding me? I'm real tired of this trend of virgins who have spent their entire lives not believing in love or relationships or commitment meeting shallow assholes and end up confessing everlasting love and putting out within a week of meeting. Its unrealistic and just makes for an awful read.
The two stars is simply for the research effort. The description of the island, locations, food, and culture was descriptive and seemed well researched. At least I can say I learned something from this book. There were not many redeeming qualities to this book other than that. Hated Jonathan. Nicole wasn't bad, but for someone who supposedly spent 18 years making dance her life and her everything she sure as fuck didn't do much of it in this book. Congrats Nic, on managing to make it to a school you flew halfway around the world for for all of two days. Good on you. Annie was obnoxious, just a filler character that relied on lots of swearing in a failed attempt to be funny (kind of like this review). Izo is the only one I enjoyed completely.
No more spur of the moment purchases for me. This one was enough to make me think long and hard before pressing the buy button in a moment of pure spontaneity.
July 2, 2013
Rating: 3.75 stars
A sweet love story! I wasn't really going to read it, but then I thought, wait, why not give it a chance? And I assure you, it was worth every second. The story was interesting with ups and downs everywhere, of course.
It has amazing characters and somehow I could relate to Nicole! Perhaps that's the reason I like this book this much.
Nicole - the protagonist of the book. She's an independent person and doesn't get involved in relationships easily. She has a working brain and she knows what to do and what not to do usually. She's not perfect and hence she makes mistakes. But you know what this is all about? Her quest for self recognition and love. Her quest for second chances that are worth the time. And you know what? She stands up to it! She's strong, doesn't get deceived and what else? falls in love with a perfectly imperfect guy. And guess what? That's her true love. I love her. :)
Jonathan - well well, what shall I say about this guy? He's swoon worthy, jealous and a perfect guy to fall for. He has his own screw-ups and he makes mistakes. But guess what? He knows what he did wrong. So I really really like him.
AND HOW CAN I FORGET ANNIE? Oh my word. Oh my word. She's the most amazing girl I've ever come across. Funny, witty, smart, rational, bitchy and everything in one! She made me laugh throughout the book. She's amazingggg. I loveee herr. <3
In short, it's a book that you can't just put down, no matter what. It has something or the other going on at every point on every page. Sometimes the whole action or whatever gets a bit annoying but well, I guess that's how it's supposed to be.! I'm glad I read this book, and so should you!
A sweet love story! I wasn't really going to read it, but then I thought, wait, why not give it a chance? And I assure you, it was worth every second. The story was interesting with ups and downs everywhere, of course.
It has amazing characters and somehow I could relate to Nicole! Perhaps that's the reason I like this book this much.
Nicole - the protagonist of the book. She's an independent person and doesn't get involved in relationships easily. She has a working brain and she knows what to do and what not to do usually. She's not perfect and hence she makes mistakes. But you know what this is all about? Her quest for self recognition and love. Her quest for second chances that are worth the time. And you know what? She stands up to it! She's strong, doesn't get deceived and what else? falls in love with a perfectly imperfect guy. And guess what? That's her true love. I love her. :)
Jonathan - well well, what shall I say about this guy? He's swoon worthy, jealous and a perfect guy to fall for. He has his own screw-ups and he makes mistakes. But guess what? He knows what he did wrong. So I really really like him.
AND HOW CAN I FORGET ANNIE? Oh my word. Oh my word. She's the most amazing girl I've ever come across. Funny, witty, smart, rational, bitchy and everything in one! She made me laugh throughout the book. She's amazingggg. I loveee herr. <3
In short, it's a book that you can't just put down, no matter what. It has something or the other going on at every point on every page. Sometimes the whole action or whatever gets a bit annoying but well, I guess that's how it's supposed to be.! I'm glad I read this book, and so should you!
April 2, 2013
♥ After a bunch of books I have read, from friends recommendation etc. I have decided to pick something from my list, This book catches my attention beside the Pretty Cool cover it has, I was as well intrigue with the title itself “LOVE and TRUTH”! I read the synopsis to Love and Truth and instantly felt like I was going to love it. Well… Love and Truth centers around Nicole and Jonathan. Both characters come from a Japanese mother and an American father. This is what sealed the deal for me reading this as I love traveling so much and learn different culture and JAPAN is one on my bucket-list to visit one day. The author added the perfect little tid-bits of Japanese culture that would not overwhelm a reader who is not familiar but would make those who are familiar smile. I found myself often remembering stories that my aunt told me about the country when I was a kid. I was interested in seeing how Kathryn Vance-Perez was going to work the culture and ethnicity into the story line.
One of the most wonderful about a book is when the author can make you travel somewhere that now your mind would see in a certain way forever. Beside the sweet and adoring lines that each character give that will make each reader smile and giggle in between. Plus the kick ass BFF that give spice on the story, Annie and Emiko holds it in both different aspect, Annie being the feisty and open one made me laugh of all the terminology she uses, and Emiko makes me giggle when he hold up her sweetness and how he love and support her friends.
So Love and Truth was a refreshing story to read. I without a doubt recommend this read.♥
One of the most wonderful about a book is when the author can make you travel somewhere that now your mind would see in a certain way forever. Beside the sweet and adoring lines that each character give that will make each reader smile and giggle in between. Plus the kick ass BFF that give spice on the story, Annie and Emiko holds it in both different aspect, Annie being the feisty and open one made me laugh of all the terminology she uses, and Emiko makes me giggle when he hold up her sweetness and how he love and support her friends.
So Love and Truth was a refreshing story to read. I without a doubt recommend this read.♥
May 4, 2013
If you were to ask me how it did go – I’d say it was okay.
I hated Nicole, seriously, because I hate girls who easily cry over petty things. But I love her passion for dance, and her desire to travel and know the culture of a country so foreign to her. The details about the culture of Japan are enlightening, and it makes me want to experience the same thing as well.
Nicole’s plan didn’t include in having a boyfriend. But one night, while sitting in the balcony, Jonathan passed by – and her world shook. She has a problem with trust, and no matter how Jonathan tried in proving that he can be a good guy – that he won’t break her heart, she won’t budge. The attraction was there, so was the fear. Nicole wasn’t ready to fall in love, and she wasn’t ready to get her heart broken. Then when Jonathan looked like he moved on (as per instruction from her) – she suddenly realized that she wanted him and wanted to take the risk…
Jonathan was someone you could trust and fall in love with. I don’t understand why Nicole was feeling hot-then-cold towards him. He’s hot, has the passion for music and definitely swoon-worthy. She was lucky that he spends time and woos her.
It wasn’t a novel that would sweep me off my feet entirely (although I have to say I adore Jonathan and his karate moves). I was entertained, then bored, then entertained. The pacing of the story didn’t keep up and I was a little disappointed because I have been looking forward in reading this novel.
I hated Nicole, seriously, because I hate girls who easily cry over petty things. But I love her passion for dance, and her desire to travel and know the culture of a country so foreign to her. The details about the culture of Japan are enlightening, and it makes me want to experience the same thing as well.
Nicole’s plan didn’t include in having a boyfriend. But one night, while sitting in the balcony, Jonathan passed by – and her world shook. She has a problem with trust, and no matter how Jonathan tried in proving that he can be a good guy – that he won’t break her heart, she won’t budge. The attraction was there, so was the fear. Nicole wasn’t ready to fall in love, and she wasn’t ready to get her heart broken. Then when Jonathan looked like he moved on (as per instruction from her) – she suddenly realized that she wanted him and wanted to take the risk…
Jonathan was someone you could trust and fall in love with. I don’t understand why Nicole was feeling hot-then-cold towards him. He’s hot, has the passion for music and definitely swoon-worthy. She was lucky that he spends time and woos her.
It wasn’t a novel that would sweep me off my feet entirely (although I have to say I adore Jonathan and his karate moves). I was entertained, then bored, then entertained. The pacing of the story didn’t keep up and I was a little disappointed because I have been looking forward in reading this novel.
June 28, 2013
4 Want To Slap You Stars
Yep. Wanna slap Jonathan upside his beautiful piano playing head. Not just once, mind you...multiple times. He is sweet, romantic and then...bam...he needs to be slapped.
Nicole has been a good girl all her life. She is very much in control. She is a dancer and having been so scheduled all her life with her practices, recitals and teaching, she thinks she needs that rigid control. I picture her with really good posture. She just seems like she would stand up straight. But her carefully constructed control is blown when her parents divorce and she realizes that sometimes life is a crap shoot. So she does what any young beautiful girl would do. She goes to Japan. Not what you were expecting right?
Her first night in Japan she sees a gorgeous young man staring up at her while she stands on the balcony. Yep...that is Jonathan. The one you will want to slap and then cuddle. And then slap again.
Jonathan is romantic, persistent, possessive and just plain STUPID sometimes. He walks out. He gives her reason to walk out and sometimes run out. How many times can he make the same mistake? Answer: several
The plot is not hard to follow. You can guess what is coming, but you still want to read because you never know which Jonathan is going to show up. Talented, loving Jonathan or Dumb Shit Jonathan. Makes you wanna slap him. Then cuddle him.
Yep. Wanna slap Jonathan upside his beautiful piano playing head. Not just once, mind you...multiple times. He is sweet, romantic and then...bam...he needs to be slapped.
Nicole has been a good girl all her life. She is very much in control. She is a dancer and having been so scheduled all her life with her practices, recitals and teaching, she thinks she needs that rigid control. I picture her with really good posture. She just seems like she would stand up straight. But her carefully constructed control is blown when her parents divorce and she realizes that sometimes life is a crap shoot. So she does what any young beautiful girl would do. She goes to Japan. Not what you were expecting right?
Her first night in Japan she sees a gorgeous young man staring up at her while she stands on the balcony. Yep...that is Jonathan. The one you will want to slap and then cuddle. And then slap again.
Jonathan is romantic, persistent, possessive and just plain STUPID sometimes. He walks out. He gives her reason to walk out and sometimes run out. How many times can he make the same mistake? Answer: several
The plot is not hard to follow. You can guess what is coming, but you still want to read because you never know which Jonathan is going to show up. Talented, loving Jonathan or Dumb Shit Jonathan. Makes you wanna slap him. Then cuddle him.
February 2, 2013
This story was very captivating and the love between Nicole and Jonathan jumped at me from right out of the pages. Oh Jonathan Hayes... Excuse me while I fan myself. That man is deeply romantic, sensitive, yet strong, protective, loyal, oh sweet baby lord, I could go on forever about that lovely fellow. I loved the descriptive detail of Japan, everything from the places, food and the culture, it really made me real like I was there.
This is most definitely a wonderful debut novel from Kathryn. You are magic!
This is most definitely a wonderful debut novel from Kathryn. You are magic!
Source: zimbio.com via John on Pinterest
April 23, 2013
I absolutely loved this beautiful story! I laughed, I cried, and several times I thought I might have a heart attack my heart was racing so fast!
I loved hearing about Japanese culture, you can tell how much Kathryn loved living in Japan from her writing.
Now on the the beautiful soul Jonathan Hayes, who is very swoon-worthy I must say! He made my heart smile from the beautiful things he said and did for Nicole. He made several mistakes, some that were harsh, but he let Nicole know how sorry he was and showed true remorse.
I loved Nicole too, she was strong and didn't let anybody walk all over her. Yes sometimes she took that a little far, but living through a family divorce she had to protect herself so that was understandable.
5 beautiful stars!
Pick this one up, you won't be disappointed!
I loved hearing about Japanese culture, you can tell how much Kathryn loved living in Japan from her writing.
Now on the the beautiful soul Jonathan Hayes, who is very swoon-worthy I must say! He made my heart smile from the beautiful things he said and did for Nicole. He made several mistakes, some that were harsh, but he let Nicole know how sorry he was and showed true remorse.
I loved Nicole too, she was strong and didn't let anybody walk all over her. Yes sometimes she took that a little far, but living through a family divorce she had to protect herself so that was understandable.
5 beautiful stars!
Pick this one up, you won't be disappointed!
February 21, 2013
Wonderful story of love between two people finding their path together! Hard to believe this well written story is a debut novel. Couldn't put it down thanks to a few twists and turns of my emotions. Enjoyed watching Nicole take those leaps of faith and find the courage to take her life where she didn't know possible. Jonathan is a handsome keeper for sheltered Nicole. She is swept off her feet, and I often thought "what a great guy." He isn't without faults though which makes him more realistic. Loved it! The beautiful descriptions of Okinawa make you wish you were there! As a bonus, her friend will make you laugh out loud!
May 2, 2013
I was so excited to read this book. The reviews had been decent and it was set in Japan which is one of my all time dream vacation spots.I was heartbroken to realize that this story really wasn't all that great.The writing style was fine and the details were there in abundance. However I found Nicole to be progressively unlikable.By the end of the book,her complete immersion into all things Jonathan was absolutely insane.I felt like she ended up being a hypocrite seeing as one of her pet peeves was that in high school her female classmates were so involved in boys that there was no time for anything else.
June 24, 2013
Loved, loved, loved this book...What a beautiful love story...Not only it was beautiful but Kathryn Vance-Perez took me to Japan with it culture and the food hmmmm, which I always been wanted to visit...I felt in love with the characters in this book and I didn't wanted it to end...I love Jonathan and how he felt in love with his balcony girl Nicole at first sight...I love how "Kathryn Vance-Perez" explain Jonathan tatoos and what it mean..I really do highly recommend this book, it was well written and you felt the love when it came to Nicole and Jonathan...READ IT..IS A MUST :D
January 30, 2013
I was so excited to be gifted this book to read! I really enjoyed it! I loved the fact that the beauty of the locations were brought out in the book! (Makes me want to visit lol) it's like you were there and you can vision the scenery! The characters were amazing and you can really connect with them! This book was such a great read! I really look forward to hopefully read more from this author! Awesome job! :-)
February 2, 2015
Wow!!!! What more can I say about this rare find? Got this book from a friend, and couldn't put it down! I've got to say Jonathan has got to be one sexy ass talker!! Best book boy talk I've heard so far, my goodness :) I need more, so much more!!! Mrs. Kathryn I didn't get enough, so please give me another Okinawa boy....lived and loved the Japanese!!! Too dang sexy!!!
April 15, 2013
A-mazing ! I love the fact that this book has a little bit of everything , from divorce, chasing dreams, traveling, death, best friend, music, dance, and cant forget about romance . It makes me want to try new things in life . This book was just fucking great , hope to see more from this author .
March 26, 2013
While reading this book I actually felt that I was traveling around Okinawa. (& seriously wishing that I could visit those places in this book sometime soon). Another good book that was worth reading over my short summer break.
April 21, 2013
I absolutely loved this story. I am in love with Jonathan. I could not put my Kindle down, I had to find out how their love story would end.
I am glad that I read this book, I'm even happier that it was a free one. Getting in trouble with hubby for all the books that I have been purchasing : )
I am glad that I read this book, I'm even happier that it was a free one. Getting in trouble with hubby for all the books that I have been purchasing : )
February 6, 2013
3.5 if only the first half had been as good as the second. I would like to read more about Nicole and Jonathan's school.
March 4, 2013
Of course I loved all the Okinawa references and it made me miss living in Japan!
February 13, 2013
Great and quick read. Loved the adventures, romance, breakup, emotional ride with a lot of healing and forgiving between two broken hearted people. Loved learning the culture in Okinawa.
February 14, 2013
I'm a sucker for a good love story but this book is so much more than that. Great job Kathryn! Watch out for her next novel 'THERAPY' people because...."this girl is on fire"!
March 28, 2013
Overall I loved this book, I was hooked to the storyline from the minute I started it yesterday. I'd definitely recommend it to anyone!
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