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Saviour #1
Saving Ren
Lauren has decided her marriage is over, but has yet to tell Jay, her abusive husband of the past twenty five years. On a night out with girlfriends, she has a few drinks and musters the courage to shamefully come clean over the abuse she has suffered over the years.
Gabriel joins his brothers for a friday night drink at a local bar, thirty five, good looking and single after a very brief, failed marriage, all he is ever on the lookout for is a hook up....Even names aren't important to him...Straight sex, no complications.
Watch as their worlds collide, neither of them prepared for the effect each will have on the other. The chemistry is instant and overwhelming and has the possibility to destroy them but will the mind blowing sex be enough to keep them together and overcome each of their pasts?
Their story is sometimes harrowing and heartbreaking and touches on subjects all too often avoided. Don't expect a hearts and flowers romance read, although that is there too, along with some very funny moments
Gabriel joins his brothers for a friday night drink at a local bar, thirty five, good looking and single after a very brief, failed marriage, all he is ever on the lookout for is a hook up....Even names aren't important to him...Straight sex, no complications.
Watch as their worlds collide, neither of them prepared for the effect each will have on the other. The chemistry is instant and overwhelming and has the possibility to destroy them but will the mind blowing sex be enough to keep them together and overcome each of their pasts?
Their story is sometimes harrowing and heartbreaking and touches on subjects all too often avoided. Don't expect a hearts and flowers romance read, although that is there too, along with some very funny moments
1 pages, Audio CD
First published March 15, 2013
267 people are currently reading
1729 people want to read
About the author
Lesley Jones
21 books2,378 followersLesley Jones is a NYT's best selling, and internationally acclaimed author known for her emotionally charged novels featuring gritty, down-to-earth characters navigating angsty, raw and emotional plot lines.
Born and raised in Essex, England, Lesley and her family relocated to Australia in 2006.
Her writing career launched in 2013 with her debut novel, Saviour - Since rewritten and republished as Saving Ren - And quickly gained a loyal following for her unique ability to pivot from hot and steamy romance to emotionally charged, ugly cry scenes, often followed by laugh-out-loud moments, all within the span of a few sentences.
Her third novel The Story of Us, book 1 in her New York Times best selling Carnage Series, became her breakout success, hitting multiple bestseller lists and winning several awards, including the distinctive title of Best Ugly Cry.
For Lesley, the most rewarding part of her job is connecting with her readers, whether that be sharing personal stories about her hectic family life in her reader group, or in person at signing events around the world.
When not writing, Lesley is a self-confessed lover of reality TV, long walks, travelling and dining out.
When doing none of these, she enjoys a full bodied red, or a large G&T, preferably while wearing pyjamas and no bra unless absolutely necessary.
Born and raised in Essex, England, Lesley and her family relocated to Australia in 2006.
Her writing career launched in 2013 with her debut novel, Saviour - Since rewritten and republished as Saving Ren - And quickly gained a loyal following for her unique ability to pivot from hot and steamy romance to emotionally charged, ugly cry scenes, often followed by laugh-out-loud moments, all within the span of a few sentences.
Her third novel The Story of Us, book 1 in her New York Times best selling Carnage Series, became her breakout success, hitting multiple bestseller lists and winning several awards, including the distinctive title of Best Ugly Cry.
For Lesley, the most rewarding part of her job is connecting with her readers, whether that be sharing personal stories about her hectic family life in her reader group, or in person at signing events around the world.
When not writing, Lesley is a self-confessed lover of reality TV, long walks, travelling and dining out.
When doing none of these, she enjoys a full bodied red, or a large G&T, preferably while wearing pyjamas and no bra unless absolutely necessary.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 333 reviews
April 23, 2021
I’ve been trying to collect my thoughts before writing this review and let me say that my thoughts are all over the place. I know my review won’t do it justice so please bear with me.
Gabriel Wild does not do forever due to his past so when his eyes land on Lauren, it gives him feelings that he’s never felt before and it intrigues him. Lauren is about to make one of the biggest decisions of her life, so she has no time for someone like Gabe that has plenty of ladies wanting his attention. Yet Gabe refuses to let Lauren get away and he will do everything in his power to make her see that he’s good for her.
I won’t give much because it you’re like me and have never read this book when it was previously published then you need to go in with a clear mind and let yourself feel all the emotions this book will put you through. This story had so much that it felt like one of those wild rollercoasters we’ve all ridden. So now I’ll be patiently waiting for the next part because that ending!!! Kara~ 5 Amazing Stars
Gabriel Wild does not do forever due to his past so when his eyes land on Lauren, it gives him feelings that he’s never felt before and it intrigues him. Lauren is about to make one of the biggest decisions of her life, so she has no time for someone like Gabe that has plenty of ladies wanting his attention. Yet Gabe refuses to let Lauren get away and he will do everything in his power to make her see that he’s good for her.
I won’t give much because it you’re like me and have never read this book when it was previously published then you need to go in with a clear mind and let yourself feel all the emotions this book will put you through. This story had so much that it felt like one of those wild rollercoasters we’ve all ridden. So now I’ll be patiently waiting for the next part because that ending!!! Kara~ 5 Amazing Stars
dnf
August 22, 2014DNF at 54%
I hate to DNF, pretty much never DNF, and I actually had to create a DNF shelf just so that I could put this book on it. I started this one with high hopes and got so annoyed with it that I put it down for a break. It’s now over a month later and I have no desire to go back and finish this book. So I guess that’s a big DNF for me.
It started out promisingly enough. Woman in her 40s finally making the break from an abusive husband, meets a hot guy at a bar. And then... insta-love - MASSIVE insta love. The heroine has fallen for the new guy the DAY she decides to leave her husband, and before she's actually left him. As for the hero, he is a manwhore who falls wildly for her upon first glance. We were warned of this in the synopsis…
Sadly, for me, no. No it isn’t.
Mere days after meeting, we’re getting this…
I managed to get past that but even after days of this outpouring of emotion, the heroine is still a clueless and needy little thing, and then we get…
Stab! In. The. Face!
Lauren is so fucking annoying, 45 years old but very immature and constantly going on about how much older she is than her hot 35 year old lover, and there’s lots of this:
Yep, me too!
There are some big editing problems – not just grammar but additional words, missing words, and every single swear word is in italics. Every. Single. One. So fucking distracting! WTF?
And lastly, the book is set in Australia, and even though I’m Aussie born and bred, even I thought there was an overuse of Australian slang. Words like ‘Macas’, ‘trackies’, I use all the time. Throw in ‘arvo’ and ‘darl’, and I start to raise an eyebrow. But then our hero comes out with ‘fair dinkum’ - I can honestly say, I have never heard a real person actually say that.
I did plan to come back to this book. I do love an intense love story, but this one was OTT even for me. On the plus side, there is lots of hot sex, and Lauren’s girlfriends seem like a nice bunch, but I can honestly say I just don’t care to find out what happens with these characters.
Sorry :(
I hate to DNF, pretty much never DNF, and I actually had to create a DNF shelf just so that I could put this book on it. I started this one with high hopes and got so annoyed with it that I put it down for a break. It’s now over a month later and I have no desire to go back and finish this book. So I guess that’s a big DNF for me.
It started out promisingly enough. Woman in her 40s finally making the break from an abusive husband, meets a hot guy at a bar. And then... insta-love - MASSIVE insta love. The heroine has fallen for the new guy the DAY she decides to leave her husband, and before she's actually left him. As for the hero, he is a manwhore who falls wildly for her upon first glance. We were warned of this in the synopsis…
“The chemistry is instant and overwhelming and has the possibility to destroy them but will the mind blowing sex be enough…”
Sadly, for me, no. No it isn’t.
Mere days after meeting, we’re getting this…
“Right now… right now I feel like I'm drowning. I want you Lauren, like I’ve never wanted any woman. I want you in every way. I really don't care about all the shit you have going on, I’ll take that too, as long as I have you. I miss you even when we're not in the same room. I miss your smile, your warmth, your humour, your smell, shit, I even miss your smart mouth and I don't want you to live anywhere other than with me.”
I managed to get past that but even after days of this outpouring of emotion, the heroine is still a clueless and needy little thing, and then we get…
“Do you like me Gabe?”
His face is a picture, he looks stunned. “What the fuck are you talking about, do I like you? Of course I fucking like you. I more than like you, haven’t I made that clear? We may’ve only met a week ago, but you’ve turned my world on its head . You’ve moved into my home, my world, my life, and my heart. Does that not speak volumes to you about my feelings Lauren?”
Stab! In. The. Face!
Lauren is so fucking annoying, 45 years old but very immature and constantly going on about how much older she is than her hot 35 year old lover, and there’s lots of this:
“I don't understand, why me? Why would you want me?”
“Lauren!” He lets out another sigh.
I’m pissing him off and it’s no surprise because I’m pissing myself off.
“You’re seriously starting to piss me off.”
Yep, me too!
There are some big editing problems – not just grammar but additional words, missing words, and every single swear word is in italics. Every. Single. One. So fucking distracting! WTF?
And lastly, the book is set in Australia, and even though I’m Aussie born and bred, even I thought there was an overuse of Australian slang. Words like ‘Macas’, ‘trackies’, I use all the time. Throw in ‘arvo’ and ‘darl’, and I start to raise an eyebrow. But then our hero comes out with ‘fair dinkum’ - I can honestly say, I have never heard a real person actually say that.
I did plan to come back to this book. I do love an intense love story, but this one was OTT even for me. On the plus side, there is lots of hot sex, and Lauren’s girlfriends seem like a nice bunch, but I can honestly say I just don’t care to find out what happens with these characters.
Sorry :(
March 27, 2014
Lauren 45yr old married to Jason for 25yrs and he's abusing her. He goes one step too far and Lauren leaves him.
She meets Gabriel on a girly night out and instant sparks fly between them.
Gripping and sexy from beginning to end and straight on to book 2 to find out the answers.
Gabriel really is Laurens saviour. A great read. Loved it.
She meets Gabriel on a girly night out and instant sparks fly between them.
Gripping and sexy from beginning to end and straight on to book 2 to find out the answers.
Gabriel really is Laurens saviour. A great read. Loved it.
February 26, 2014
Mr Wilde the divine Gabriel can be my Angel anyday!!!
Lauren has decided her marriage is over, walking away from her 26 year marriage wasn't a easy decision. But the last 5 years had become too much to bear for Lauren.
So on a night out with girlfriends, she has a few drinks and musters the courage to shamefully come clean over the abuse she has suffered over the years. Whilst confessing all at the bar, her eyes meet across the room with Gabriel 10 years younger at 35 hot, very much single and every girls wet dream.
They have a few drinks together and chat, there is an obvious attraction between the two of them.
The story unfolds as Lauren gets brutally attacked by her husband Jay again, this time she runs into the night in just the clothes she stands in.
I must admit I did find Lauren frustrating at times and I wanted to yell at her. But this was mostly because of her insecurities.
I loved Gabriel who wouldn't.....he is divine, protective, smart and sexy.
I did think this novel was a paranormal read and it's so not, due to the cover. It's a story of harsh realities.
Lesley Jones is a fantastic author and I have thoroughly enjoyed reading her work.
July 20, 2014
This was my first read of a story that had a heroine of a certain age, I was not sure what to expect, but I do have to say that I was pleasantly surprised. Lauren is 45, a mother of two grown boys and is ready to leave her asshat of a husband after 26 years of marriage.
Lauren hasn't shared her secrets about the way her husband belittles her or abuses her with her girlfriends - to the outside world it appears that she has a stable and loving marriage. But it takes her a while to realize that it wasn't just the last few years where things took a turn for the worse. There had always been snide comments and insults through the years - but it's become too much to take.
Out with the girls for a night out she sees him. Gabriel. He is younger, hotter and definitely wet-dream material.
A few drinks and a lot of sexual tension later they share a kiss. But she won't be the woman that cheats on her husband - she is planning on leaving and Gabriel is interested enough to wait it out. But when she breaks down at the bar and unleashes all her secrets to her girlfriends; her life may be changing faster than she expected. Arriving home her husband actions cause her to run from him to the arms of her friend and into the emergency room. She has had enough. She has left him.
Gabriel has never been in love, he is not looking to spend more than a night or two in any single woman's bed. But that changes when he sees her. There is something about her that draws him near and he can't seem to get enough.
Now - be prepared for that full on - fall into love immediate type romance when it comes to Gabriel and Lauren. Fast Forward on steroids type of love. This is a common theme and sometimes can be unrealistic but I was not overly bothered by it in this.
And although we have a woman who is set to start her whole life over and realizing that the man she has loved for half of her life has turned into a monster - I found her to be a little annoying. I tried to reason that her emotional baggage was justified and her insecurities stemmed from her abusive situation. And so it was a inner struggle between trying to understand that and not want to shake her - she had every right to go through her emotional issues and maybe if Gabriel wasn't just about freaking perfect I may not have found her to be so bothersome.
And just when you think that the drama is settling down you get hit from the other side. Gabriel has his own issues that come to light, which allows Lauren to understand him a little more. Between the drama of leaving her husband, falling into love with a man ten years younger and having to deal with the never ending stalkish behavior of her jackass of a husband that is not willing to let her go - you find yourself expecting a HEA and are left with a cliffhanger!
Overall this book had my attention. I was able to let go of the age issue of the main character and cut her a little slack for her somewhat immature behavior. This is the first novel from the author and it was a great first book. I love reading these first novels and I love seeing the growth from the the first book to the next book.
April 14, 2021
An emotional story of new beginnings and second chances. Starting over is not just about healing the physical scars but the emotional ones that will need to be conquered in order to find the HEA they both deserve.
Fleeing her home in the middle of the night with nothing but the clothes on her back, to save her own life, is not what she expected. This is not how Lauren saw herself at this stage of life. At forty-four, with two grown sons and the man she has loved for half her life, this last year has literally beaten her down. Now she finds herself running for her life.
Lauren needs to start over and take her life back, after her husband becomes an abuser she no longer recognizes. At first, she overlooked his behavior but now the violence has taken a turn and she was left battered and bloody. She carried so much shame for what she was going through, she kept her life a secret. Now she'll have to depend on friends and the kindness of a stranger to keep her safe and help her get back on her feet.
Gabe saw her in the bar the night before her life irrevocably changed. It was like the world shifted when he laid his eyes on Lauren. All he knew was that he wanted to know her. A brief meeting left a lasting impression. However, a mutual friend guarantees a future meet up.
When Lauren needs a safe place to heal and hide from her husband, Gabe offers to shelter her. And so a complicated, yet explosive, relationship begins.
This is Lauren's story of fighting her way back. The emotional scars plague her and her self-sabotage often ruins her present. Gabe is exactly what she needs to help her fight those demons. From day one they shared an intense chemistry but as time went on, they formed a friendship. He is her rock, but fights his own ghosts from the past as well. The start to their relationship is unconventional. Lauren is overwhelmed by her new normal and Gabe just wants to help her along the way. However, his past keeps coming back to cause issues and he's new to being with only one woman. He was a man that lived the single life with no connections and loved it, until her. Now all he wants to do is show her how much she means to him and keep her safe. He embraced his new role like he was born for her. Gabe may feel inept at times, but the man brings the heat and always has the right words.
I was totally wrapped up in Lauren and Gabe's story. This was a journey wrought with lots of tears. Lauren is strong even when she feels weak, but her road to happiness has just begun. She'll have to fight, with Gabe's help, to start over and claim her future. The author will make you feel their pain, but you'll also be cheering them on as they find their way. I look forward to their HEA.
Fleeing her home in the middle of the night with nothing but the clothes on her back, to save her own life, is not what she expected. This is not how Lauren saw herself at this stage of life. At forty-four, with two grown sons and the man she has loved for half her life, this last year has literally beaten her down. Now she finds herself running for her life.
Lauren needs to start over and take her life back, after her husband becomes an abuser she no longer recognizes. At first, she overlooked his behavior but now the violence has taken a turn and she was left battered and bloody. She carried so much shame for what she was going through, she kept her life a secret. Now she'll have to depend on friends and the kindness of a stranger to keep her safe and help her get back on her feet.
Gabe saw her in the bar the night before her life irrevocably changed. It was like the world shifted when he laid his eyes on Lauren. All he knew was that he wanted to know her. A brief meeting left a lasting impression. However, a mutual friend guarantees a future meet up.
When Lauren needs a safe place to heal and hide from her husband, Gabe offers to shelter her. And so a complicated, yet explosive, relationship begins.
This is Lauren's story of fighting her way back. The emotional scars plague her and her self-sabotage often ruins her present. Gabe is exactly what she needs to help her fight those demons. From day one they shared an intense chemistry but as time went on, they formed a friendship. He is her rock, but fights his own ghosts from the past as well. The start to their relationship is unconventional. Lauren is overwhelmed by her new normal and Gabe just wants to help her along the way. However, his past keeps coming back to cause issues and he's new to being with only one woman. He was a man that lived the single life with no connections and loved it, until her. Now all he wants to do is show her how much she means to him and keep her safe. He embraced his new role like he was born for her. Gabe may feel inept at times, but the man brings the heat and always has the right words.
I was totally wrapped up in Lauren and Gabe's story. This was a journey wrought with lots of tears. Lauren is strong even when she feels weak, but her road to happiness has just begun. She'll have to fight, with Gabe's help, to start over and claim her future. The author will make you feel their pain, but you'll also be cheering them on as they find their way. I look forward to their HEA.
March 30, 2014
Gonna stick to my guns and say this wasn't "all that" for me. Bit sick of insta-love story lines.
I'm in the same age bracket, married almost as long with two boys hence my feelings kind of related in that sense.
There were lots I did enjoy about this book, Lauren was a great witty character, I totally understood her insecurities ( who wouldn't with a bloke ten years younger ) I have wobbly bits too.
I'm not sure if this is two or three books long so I don't know where it's going, all I can say is I would have preferred a slower build up to Lauren and Gabes relationship.
I didn't swoon over Gabe, his past along with Lauren had potential for a good storyline but I felt like this book was a puzzle with the pieces in all the wrong places.
I'm in the same age bracket, married almost as long with two boys hence my feelings kind of related in that sense.
There were lots I did enjoy about this book, Lauren was a great witty character, I totally understood her insecurities ( who wouldn't with a bloke ten years younger ) I have wobbly bits too.
I'm not sure if this is two or three books long so I don't know where it's going, all I can say is I would have preferred a slower build up to Lauren and Gabes relationship.
I didn't swoon over Gabe, his past along with Lauren had potential for a good storyline but I felt like this book was a puzzle with the pieces in all the wrong places.
April 22, 2021
It's polished and perfected some more, and still manages to rewoke the same feelings I had when I read it the first time. It's a love that's matured like fine wine. A quest of a woman to find her own identity, hr own footing in this world on her own. She goes exploring her heart to see what she wants and needs. Her insecurity, her dilemma, her hesitation has been captured beautifully by Jones.
Gabe is instantly attracted to Lauren who's been married, albeit unhappily, to her husband of twenty six years and a mother of two grown boys. She meets Gabriel at a bar when she's out with her friends and though she feels the connection, she doesn't act on it because she's an honourable woman, above cheating. She moves out , and sees Gabe. I felt the sizzling physical connection and also the first thrill in their funny witty banter. Also the older woman -younger guy pairing was done without the cheesiness. I almost forgot the age gap and that reiterates the point Ms.Jones wants to portray.
Love leaps through chasm and gaps to capture it's counterpart. The heart wants what the heart wants :)
Beautifully written, perfect amalgamation of poignancy and wit, it manages to cause flutter in your heart and moisten your knickers too.
5 stars for love that ages like fine wine
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Gabe is instantly attracted to Lauren who's been married, albeit unhappily, to her husband of twenty six years and a mother of two grown boys. She meets Gabriel at a bar when she's out with her friends and though she feels the connection, she doesn't act on it because she's an honourable woman, above cheating. She moves out , and sees Gabe. I felt the sizzling physical connection and also the first thrill in their funny witty banter. Also the older woman -younger guy pairing was done without the cheesiness. I almost forgot the age gap and that reiterates the point Ms.Jones wants to portray.
Love leaps through chasm and gaps to capture it's counterpart. The heart wants what the heart wants :)
Beautifully written, perfect amalgamation of poignancy and wit, it manages to cause flutter in your heart and moisten your knickers too.
5 stars for love that ages like fine wine
Follow me on:
Email🌻 Bookbub 🌻 Twitter🌻 Instagram🌻 Blog🌻 Facebook🌻 Amazon 🌻
April 23, 2021
WTH just happened? I devoured this book in one day. Ugh now I have been dreaming about this couple for two nights in a row. They both have taken me on such an emotional journey even my subconscious doesn’t want to let them go. YIKES!
Lauren is the BEST character. Her fighter, feisty, and funny spirit has me routing for her from the beginning. Ugh this author understands the seduction and steps that occur to even the strongest of women, allowing physical abuse to happen.
Gabe... even autocorrect wants you to be my babe. Hee hee. He is so nummy from the beginning. His insta-love experience has him willing to reinvent himself. He truly is a leopard changing his spots. He wants his playboy ways to be a thing of the past after meeting Lauren aka Ren. Wink. OMG thinking about him makes me melt.
Ummm this author had me thinking that Lauren was the one with all the surprises and heartache. NOPE, Gabe has some backstory that makes my blood boil. I want to discuss all, I won’t because you have to go in blind but crickey (am I using and spelling that work right? lol) ANYWAY, I was ticked off.
Do you like cliffhangers? Even if you don’t, get over it. YOU HAVE TO EXPERIENCE THIS BOOK. Yes I am yelling. The end of this book has me asking ALL KINDS OF QUESTIONS. I am a wreck. I need answers STAT. This book is more that five star worthy. Happy Reading Everyone! XOXO
P.S. This California gal loves all the Australian/British slang and spellings. So fun. I might need to look a few of them up though. Lol.
Lauren is the BEST character. Her fighter, feisty, and funny spirit has me routing for her from the beginning. Ugh this author understands the seduction and steps that occur to even the strongest of women, allowing physical abuse to happen.
Gabe... even autocorrect wants you to be my babe. Hee hee. He is so nummy from the beginning. His insta-love experience has him willing to reinvent himself. He truly is a leopard changing his spots. He wants his playboy ways to be a thing of the past after meeting Lauren aka Ren. Wink. OMG thinking about him makes me melt.
Ummm this author had me thinking that Lauren was the one with all the surprises and heartache. NOPE, Gabe has some backstory that makes my blood boil. I want to discuss all, I won’t because you have to go in blind but crickey (am I using and spelling that work right? lol) ANYWAY, I was ticked off.
Do you like cliffhangers? Even if you don’t, get over it. YOU HAVE TO EXPERIENCE THIS BOOK. Yes I am yelling. The end of this book has me asking ALL KINDS OF QUESTIONS. I am a wreck. I need answers STAT. This book is more that five star worthy. Happy Reading Everyone! XOXO
P.S. This California gal loves all the Australian/British slang and spellings. So fun. I might need to look a few of them up though. Lol.
April 19, 2021
5 Star review Saving Ren by Lesley Jones
I know that this is going to be hard to believe but this is the first book that I have read by Lesley Jones. I am not sure where to start with this review. This was an emotional roller coaster of a read that had me smiling at times and in tears at others, something I have learnt is par for the course when reading a book by Ms. Jones.
Lauren Day has finally had enough of her abusive marriage to Jay and has to get the courage to tell him that it is over. This is a story of overcoming scars, physically, emotionally and mentally and it was confronting at times.
Meeting Gabe Wild at the lowest point in her life is a turning point for Lauren. Now she is forty four and looking to start her life over, running for her life. She has hidden the abuse and kept it a secret but all that is about to change. It’s time for Lauren to take back her life and with her friends and Gabe, a man who is almost a stranger, at her side she is going to get her life back.
Gabe volunteers a place to for Lauren to stay and heal, determined to keep her safe from her abusive ex. I really fell for Gabe, he was there fore her when she needed him. The chemistry between them is intense but it is the friendship he offers that Lauren depends on.
For Gabe, Lauren entering his life complicates matters for him. Used to the single life, he is a man who had no plans to settle down, will Lauren change his opinion, show him that commitment can be worth it?
This is a book that brought me to tears on numerous occasions, their road is rocky and Lauren’s journey of self discovery was at times painful but I was cheering for Lauren and Gabe to get the happily ever after that they both deserved.
I know that this is going to be hard to believe but this is the first book that I have read by Lesley Jones. I am not sure where to start with this review. This was an emotional roller coaster of a read that had me smiling at times and in tears at others, something I have learnt is par for the course when reading a book by Ms. Jones.
Lauren Day has finally had enough of her abusive marriage to Jay and has to get the courage to tell him that it is over. This is a story of overcoming scars, physically, emotionally and mentally and it was confronting at times.
Meeting Gabe Wild at the lowest point in her life is a turning point for Lauren. Now she is forty four and looking to start her life over, running for her life. She has hidden the abuse and kept it a secret but all that is about to change. It’s time for Lauren to take back her life and with her friends and Gabe, a man who is almost a stranger, at her side she is going to get her life back.
Gabe volunteers a place to for Lauren to stay and heal, determined to keep her safe from her abusive ex. I really fell for Gabe, he was there fore her when she needed him. The chemistry between them is intense but it is the friendship he offers that Lauren depends on.
For Gabe, Lauren entering his life complicates matters for him. Used to the single life, he is a man who had no plans to settle down, will Lauren change his opinion, show him that commitment can be worth it?
This is a book that brought me to tears on numerous occasions, their road is rocky and Lauren’s journey of self discovery was at times painful but I was cheering for Lauren and Gabe to get the happily ever after that they both deserved.
May 20, 2014
4.5
Lauren the main character in this love story and she is 45!!!! Lauren is a woman, not a girl! She has wobbly bits, insecurities, and starting over after her 25 year marriage falls apart. finding Love just when she needs it most discovering how a man should treat a woman and 35 year old Gabe is the man to do it.
Saviour is not perfect but it is pretty damn close for me. I didn't want to put my book down and at 42 can completely understand all of Lauren's insecurities regarding her body and being involved with a man 10 years her junior. Hell, I have a hard time letting my husband of 20 years seeing my body getting old! Never mind a sex God! The witty banter is great and I laughed out loud quite a few times. The Aussie lingo was fantastic and I never had a problem with the translation. I did have to google "arvo" but hey I learnt;) something new!
I am jumping right into the second book and recommending this to all my friends.
I would like to mention my 2 little dislikes and they are minor but as I didn't give this 5 stars and it is going on my favourite shelf I want to point them out.
I felt that Lauren was a little to much in her head and Went on and on this wore on me a bit. I also wish we had Gabes POV he is so head over heals for Lauren and this is a pretty instant Love for him. Although, I may just want more of Gabe because he is so wonderful!
Lesley Jones is an amazing writer this is my second book from her I am now putting her on my instant buy list. I just hope she is a prolific and speedy writer!
Lauren the main character in this love story and she is 45!!!! Lauren is a woman, not a girl! She has wobbly bits, insecurities, and starting over after her 25 year marriage falls apart. finding Love just when she needs it most discovering how a man should treat a woman and 35 year old Gabe is the man to do it.
Saviour is not perfect but it is pretty damn close for me. I didn't want to put my book down and at 42 can completely understand all of Lauren's insecurities regarding her body and being involved with a man 10 years her junior. Hell, I have a hard time letting my husband of 20 years seeing my body getting old! Never mind a sex God! The witty banter is great and I laughed out loud quite a few times. The Aussie lingo was fantastic and I never had a problem with the translation. I did have to google "arvo" but hey I learnt;) something new!
I am jumping right into the second book and recommending this to all my friends.
I would like to mention my 2 little dislikes and they are minor but as I didn't give this 5 stars and it is going on my favourite shelf I want to point them out.
I felt that Lauren was a little to much in her head and Went on and on this wore on me a bit. I also wish we had Gabes POV he is so head over heals for Lauren and this is a pretty instant Love for him. Although, I may just want more of Gabe because he is so wonderful!
Lesley Jones is an amazing writer this is my second book from her I am now putting her on my instant buy list. I just hope she is a prolific and speedy writer!
April 16, 2014
OMG! This book was so friggin' GREAT! So much drama and heart! And wonderful characters that had me smiling with their colorful antics. If graphic language is not your thing, though, then you shouldn't even attempt this book. Me, well numerous times I found myself laughing out loud with the explicit Aussie and English cuss words...so so funny! With a 45-year-old seductively petite heroine who's just coming out of an abusive marriage narrating the explosive novel, to the magnetic and sexy 35-year-old hero that was once abused as a teenager, the reader is intrigued into a story that is both provocatively thrilling and beautifully romantic! Oh, and the sex is beyond HOT HOT HOT! I would even find myself blushing at times...lol! The author also introduces a supporting cast of characters that are as equally as captivating as the heroine and hero with a lust for supporting and protecting their own. This book is Part 1, and I definitely didn't hesitate starting Part 2 right away! So so good!!! Couldn't turn the pages fast enough! You will, with a doubt, fall in love with Lauren and Gabriel's highly-intensive story!!!!
Beautiful cover too!!!
Beautiful cover too!!!
April 22, 2021
Wow, what a read. The story doesn't so much build up as hits you straight between the shoulders and knock you flying, right from page one. I found it really hard to put down and just had to know what was going to happen next. It had me crying, holding my breath and definitely laughing, from beginning to end. This book had me gripped.
Lauren is such a strong lady and I love this Essex girl, she is so ballsy even in adversity. She had me rooting for her all the way through. Then there is Gabe, agh Gabe, what can I say he is just perfect. He is a gorgeous, sexy Aussie, who is so kind, sweet and caring that it would be really hard not to love him. Plus a cast of characters that I adored, Lauren's friends and Gabe's family, who are a fantastic and loyal bunch.
Saving Ren is the first of two books and I cannot wait to get my hands on book two. This story is a must-read, I guarantee readers will not want to put it down, just like me.
Lauren is such a strong lady and I love this Essex girl, she is so ballsy even in adversity. She had me rooting for her all the way through. Then there is Gabe, agh Gabe, what can I say he is just perfect. He is a gorgeous, sexy Aussie, who is so kind, sweet and caring that it would be really hard not to love him. Plus a cast of characters that I adored, Lauren's friends and Gabe's family, who are a fantastic and loyal bunch.
Saving Ren is the first of two books and I cannot wait to get my hands on book two. This story is a must-read, I guarantee readers will not want to put it down, just like me.
October 1, 2016
4.5 stars. A great read about a 45-year old woman who has decided to end a 25-year marriage to a man she once loved but who has become very abusive even to the extent of putting her in the hospital. Separately, while out with girlfriends she meets a 35-year old guy for whom she has an instant attraction and knows he feels the same way.
This is Book #1 (Book #2, Resolution, is already published). I loved the writing in this book. It is witty, steamy, a little scary with the husband's abuse, and very realistic in describing the relationship of an older woman and a younger man both in dealing with her insecurities (wrinkles, sagging) and each of their families and how they explain themselves to parents and children. I am looking forward to reading Resolution.
This is Book #1 (Book #2, Resolution, is already published). I loved the writing in this book. It is witty, steamy, a little scary with the husband's abuse, and very realistic in describing the relationship of an older woman and a younger man both in dealing with her insecurities (wrinkles, sagging) and each of their families and how they explain themselves to parents and children. I am looking forward to reading Resolution.
Want to read
May 20, 2014 OK... I'm tempted to try these... :)
After finishing Carnage, I went looking for books by this author. This is a 2-book contemporary romance series (HEA I'm told) and the blurb says: “Join Lauren and Gabriel on their emotional, funny, sexy and traumatic journey as they try to conquer the demons from their past and try to build a future together. Their story will make you laugh and it will make you cry and sometimes do both at the same time! This isn’t a hearts and flowers romance, it follows the story of two broken people, trying to find a way forward together after being let down in the worst possible ways.”
After finishing Carnage, I went looking for books by this author. This is a 2-book contemporary romance series (HEA I'm told) and the blurb says: “Join Lauren and Gabriel on their emotional, funny, sexy and traumatic journey as they try to conquer the demons from their past and try to build a future together. Their story will make you laugh and it will make you cry and sometimes do both at the same time! This isn’t a hearts and flowers romance, it follows the story of two broken people, trying to find a way forward together after being let down in the worst possible ways.”
December 10, 2013
Saviour... Gabriel... Oh, Gabriel!!
I must confess, I get pretty tired of the typical, sappy romance novel. I like a lot more substance to a story than just a straight out love story. I want something going on that I can't stop reading, or that I can relate to, or that just plain ole amuses me. Saviour gave me what I wanted, while still giving the "romantic love" side of things.
The main character, Lauren, has been a happily married woman for many, many years. Her husband then turns completely fucktardedly abusive to her, yet she keeps it hidden for awhile, not having the courage to face it, even though she's got a fiercely dedicated group of friends she could lean back on for support. She keeps it hidden from her grown sons as well, giving her husband the ability to continue abusing her. One night on a GNO she finally cracks and confesses... the same night she happens to run into Gabriel.
Gabriel is the guy who has enjoyed no strings attached booty calls for years. He's not the kind who is going to settle down (again, he did once, but you'll totally empathize with him for his reasoning for that one). He's established, well-off, and sexy as freaking hell. He's younger than Lauren, so when they meet she doesn't think that anything will develop -- boy, was she surprised!!
As we are lead through the beginning encounters to current time with them (and even further in the sequel, Resolution), I couldn't help but laugh, cry, stay up all night to get more... the usual that a well-written book will do to you. I love that it feels as though you're really in Lauren's head, hearing every thought, every minor detail of expression, and like you're actually living this through her. I felt every emotion she had, and couldn't wait to get more. The only thing that halted me a bit was some of the terms used -- Lauren is an Essex gal living in Australia, so a lot of the terms used are ones I hadn't heard before. It wasn't a bad thing, I just had to look up quite a few terms, or just guess based on context, as here in the US we don't use the same terms. It ended up leading me to reading this book in my head with an accent, which made it all the more sexy!
I highly recommend this book. Lesley Jones has gone a bit out of the box with it, giving us a more mature lead character, and an ongoing development not only of her now past relationship, but her current one, and how they intertwine. The characters are all well-developed, even the minor ones, and you can't help but love some and hate some. It's really a book that makes you feel part of it, and has a fabulous base and development! I call Saviour a "must read" for sure! :)
I must confess, I get pretty tired of the typical, sappy romance novel. I like a lot more substance to a story than just a straight out love story. I want something going on that I can't stop reading, or that I can relate to, or that just plain ole amuses me. Saviour gave me what I wanted, while still giving the "romantic love" side of things.
The main character, Lauren, has been a happily married woman for many, many years. Her husband then turns completely fucktardedly abusive to her, yet she keeps it hidden for awhile, not having the courage to face it, even though she's got a fiercely dedicated group of friends she could lean back on for support. She keeps it hidden from her grown sons as well, giving her husband the ability to continue abusing her. One night on a GNO she finally cracks and confesses... the same night she happens to run into Gabriel.
Gabriel is the guy who has enjoyed no strings attached booty calls for years. He's not the kind who is going to settle down (again, he did once, but you'll totally empathize with him for his reasoning for that one). He's established, well-off, and sexy as freaking hell. He's younger than Lauren, so when they meet she doesn't think that anything will develop -- boy, was she surprised!!
As we are lead through the beginning encounters to current time with them (and even further in the sequel, Resolution), I couldn't help but laugh, cry, stay up all night to get more... the usual that a well-written book will do to you. I love that it feels as though you're really in Lauren's head, hearing every thought, every minor detail of expression, and like you're actually living this through her. I felt every emotion she had, and couldn't wait to get more. The only thing that halted me a bit was some of the terms used -- Lauren is an Essex gal living in Australia, so a lot of the terms used are ones I hadn't heard before. It wasn't a bad thing, I just had to look up quite a few terms, or just guess based on context, as here in the US we don't use the same terms. It ended up leading me to reading this book in my head with an accent, which made it all the more sexy!
I highly recommend this book. Lesley Jones has gone a bit out of the box with it, giving us a more mature lead character, and an ongoing development not only of her now past relationship, but her current one, and how they intertwine. The characters are all well-developed, even the minor ones, and you can't help but love some and hate some. It's really a book that makes you feel part of it, and has a fabulous base and development! I call Saviour a "must read" for sure! :)
May 3, 2021
It would be easy to say that this book is all about the hero, Gabe Wild. He's hot, he's alpha and he's a knight in shining armour. He's all those things and more, however, this book is so much more than the amazing hero. Lesley Jones is great at bringing out the emotions in her readers — you've only got to read the Carnage series to know that — and this for me personally was her at her absolute best. She tackled the difficult subject of domestic abuse with care, attention and empathy and you can see how difficult it would be for women in those situations to leave when they feel they have nothing. I loved Lauren's bravery and insecurity mixed with her sass and she was the perfect foil for Gabe's alpha male. There were times when you wanted to shout at her to listen to what he was saying without words, but there was absolute realism in her response. Then there was Gabe and oh my goodness what a perfect hero he was. A little bit broken and a tiny bit insecure even though he had confidence in bucket loads. His feelings for Ren surprised him yet he stepped up to the plate and became her saviour despite his own demons. This line summed them and their relationship up perfectly.
"We just know, we've both known from the beginning that if we went there, we'd be in deep, and that's exactly what's happened."
It also sums the book up because once you start you're in deep and entrenched in the lives of these two brilliant characters. I did have questions, however, it's a two-part series so I'm sure they will be answered. Apart from CowSex/A Cowboy in Essex I think this is probably my favourite Lesley Jones book. I can't wait for the 4th June when Loving Wild is out.
"We just know, we've both known from the beginning that if we went there, we'd be in deep, and that's exactly what's happened."
It also sums the book up because once you start you're in deep and entrenched in the lives of these two brilliant characters. I did have questions, however, it's a two-part series so I'm sure they will be answered. Apart from CowSex/A Cowboy in Essex I think this is probably my favourite Lesley Jones book. I can't wait for the 4th June when Loving Wild is out.
December 13, 2013
"Saviour" by Lesley Jones is full of laughs, hot sex, serious issues, domestic drama, and intense situations. I will warn this book does contain some domestic violence and tender subjects. But overall is a tale of strength and new love.
Lauren or Loz as her friends call her is a fairly strong woman who has been in a shitty marriage for the last 5 years and its progressively gotten worse. On the night she decides to tell her girlfriends that she is leaving Jason or Jay she meets an Angel. She loves her music and throughout the book you can amass a playlist of songs. But from the opening bar scene where The Clash - "Should I Stay or Should I GO" the reality of her life is clear. She needs to GO and does.
Gabriel aka "Angel" is at the bar that the girls are at and its pure attraction at first sight. From there its a whirlwind of highs and lows. I gotta say I love Gabriel's character for his honesty and openness. He lays it all out there, good and bad, for Lauren. It may start with a cheesy pick up line..."So, you come here often?" but evolves into the hot, sexy, smoldering lines like..."Yeah baby but you're my slut." *giggles* He only has Lauren's best interest at heart and does everything he can think of and more to show her how much she means to him even after just meeting.
Even through everything shitty that happens to Lauren you can't help but love this new relationship with her 'Saviour'. I have to say that there is a hea/cliffhanger, but it is not too bad. I am certainly ready to pick up where this book leaves off.
Lauren or Loz as her friends call her is a fairly strong woman who has been in a shitty marriage for the last 5 years and its progressively gotten worse. On the night she decides to tell her girlfriends that she is leaving Jason or Jay she meets an Angel. She loves her music and throughout the book you can amass a playlist of songs. But from the opening bar scene where The Clash - "Should I Stay or Should I GO" the reality of her life is clear. She needs to GO and does.
Gabriel aka "Angel" is at the bar that the girls are at and its pure attraction at first sight. From there its a whirlwind of highs and lows. I gotta say I love Gabriel's character for his honesty and openness. He lays it all out there, good and bad, for Lauren. It may start with a cheesy pick up line..."So, you come here often?" but evolves into the hot, sexy, smoldering lines like..."Yeah baby but you're my slut." *giggles* He only has Lauren's best interest at heart and does everything he can think of and more to show her how much she means to him even after just meeting.
Even through everything shitty that happens to Lauren you can't help but love this new relationship with her 'Saviour'. I have to say that there is a hea/cliffhanger, but it is not too bad. I am certainly ready to pick up where this book leaves off.
May 12, 2014
Loved this Book. Couldn't put it down.
This book is about domestic abuse right off the bat. It's also about LOVE, Kindred spirits. Love at first sight. It's about knowing who your real friends are.
It also all happens in Australia so there are some terms in this story that you just have to guess what they refer to. Like Arvo for evening, brekkie for breakfast. This one kind of drove me to distraction "Top him up". In the U.S we say top him off meaning fill his drink to the top. One more "How ya going?" meaning How are ya doing? Just little things like that.
Lots of alcohol is consumed in this story. LOTS!
The story ends with a doozie of a cliffhanger. When it ended (although it was 1:00AM) I had to jump over to my Kindle Fire and order the next (and last) book.. "Resolution". Finally had to turn out the light at 4:00AM. I just had to stop, it was very hard though.
I'm in love with Gabe. He's broken but repairable, the same as Lauren. I get a little frustrated with Lauren's tendency to give up so easy but she does have her reasons, it's all fixable though. The second book picks up where the first lets off. There's also some Gabriel POV (finally) in the second book.
I've got to go now and finish reading the second book "Resolution".
Get this book. Did I mention that there is Lots, and Lots of erotic, descriptive, sex going on between Gabe and Lauren? Adults only. Tummy warming!!!
This book is about domestic abuse right off the bat. It's also about LOVE, Kindred spirits. Love at first sight. It's about knowing who your real friends are.
It also all happens in Australia so there are some terms in this story that you just have to guess what they refer to. Like Arvo for evening, brekkie for breakfast. This one kind of drove me to distraction "Top him up". In the U.S we say top him off meaning fill his drink to the top. One more "How ya going?" meaning How are ya doing? Just little things like that.
Lots of alcohol is consumed in this story. LOTS!
The story ends with a doozie of a cliffhanger. When it ended (although it was 1:00AM) I had to jump over to my Kindle Fire and order the next (and last) book.. "Resolution". Finally had to turn out the light at 4:00AM. I just had to stop, it was very hard though.
I'm in love with Gabe. He's broken but repairable, the same as Lauren. I get a little frustrated with Lauren's tendency to give up so easy but she does have her reasons, it's all fixable though. The second book picks up where the first lets off. There's also some Gabriel POV (finally) in the second book.
I've got to go now and finish reading the second book "Resolution".
Get this book. Did I mention that there is Lots, and Lots of erotic, descriptive, sex going on between Gabe and Lauren? Adults only. Tummy warming!!!
April 23, 2015
Ms. Jones certainly knows how to write to draw out emotions from her readers!! Her scenes with Lauren suffering abuse by her husband were very realistic and made me want to beat the S@*T out of Jason myself!! Lauren is a very likeable character for the most part, but she does come across immature at times. Now Gabriel on the other hand seems like a dream!! ;)
The story of these two characters is very interesting in the respect of two broken souls finding each other and instantly connecting. I know a lot of people don't like insta books, but sometimes it does happen in real life so I can buy it that these two fell for each other as quickly as they did. Sometimes you just know even if the timing is crappy. Ms. Jones did make both Gabe and Lauren question what was happening between them, because the timing of their meeting and getting together couldn't been more wrong. hahaha... But they were both willing to give a go and see where it leads...and thank God they do. I think the title "Savior" represents both Gabe and Lauren. Each is the Savior for the other. Once you read this story, you will see what I mean. Each has suffered terribly and find peace with each other.
I look forward to the continuation in book 2. Thank you Ms. Jones for a great read!! ;)
The story of these two characters is very interesting in the respect of two broken souls finding each other and instantly connecting. I know a lot of people don't like insta books, but sometimes it does happen in real life so I can buy it that these two fell for each other as quickly as they did. Sometimes you just know even if the timing is crappy. Ms. Jones did make both Gabe and Lauren question what was happening between them, because the timing of their meeting and getting together couldn't been more wrong. hahaha... But they were both willing to give a go and see where it leads...and thank God they do. I think the title "Savior" represents both Gabe and Lauren. Each is the Savior for the other. Once you read this story, you will see what I mean. Each has suffered terribly and find peace with each other.
I look forward to the continuation in book 2. Thank you Ms. Jones for a great read!! ;)
April 26, 2021
3.5 Stars
Saving Ren was an emotional love story that will give you all the feels. The story deals with domestic abuse and there are some trigger scenes in this novel. There were certain parts of the book that I liked and certain parts that didn't make sense to me. After being abused for a year Lauren leaves her husband with the support of her friends. I loved that she eventually found the strength to leave and I loved her supportive friends. What didn't make sense to me was her jumping into a relationship and moving in with a guy she just met. The story ends in a major cliff hanger and I need to see how the author ties it all up.
Saving Ren was an emotional love story that will give you all the feels. The story deals with domestic abuse and there are some trigger scenes in this novel. There were certain parts of the book that I liked and certain parts that didn't make sense to me. After being abused for a year Lauren leaves her husband with the support of her friends. I loved that she eventually found the strength to leave and I loved her supportive friends. What didn't make sense to me was her jumping into a relationship and moving in with a guy she just met. The story ends in a major cliff hanger and I need to see how the author ties it all up.
May 4, 2013
A spicy book, in every sense. The female main character is 45 years old and this, by itself, already draws attention in a sea of novels where the characters always have around twenties ... Lauren has a marriage that is deteriorating after more than twenty years, and she meets Gabriel in a bar, when she was with friends. Gabriel is almost ten years younger, beautiful, charming and very, very sexy and both fall in love almost instantly. Accompany the beginning of this relationship too hot and the difficulties and insecurities of a woman almost a real journey of self-rediscovery and new beginning of life. But will Lauren will get "turn the page" of your wedding and start over? Very sexy and poignant scenes where sometimes you see yourself in the character's skin, nothing idealized or fantasized, make this first book of the author reading very interesting and thought provoking.
May 9, 2013
Excellent story although she kept me hanging at the end!!!! She is a great writer and her story has a lot of twists and turns. Lauren is a 40 year old woman, heck yeah a character I can identify with in this cycle of my life! She has the same hang ups I do and I can relate to her on sooo many levels. Gabriel is a young, hot hunk who is a playboy not looking for anything serious until Lauren walks into the bar. There's a catch though she is married, but that doesn't deter Gabriel Wilde! Lauren is in an abusive relationship with her husband and is currently planning her escape! The sex is wild, hot and untamed read this with your husband, mate or BOB you won't be dissappointed! This is a great book to read!!!
July 26, 2013
Wow!!! Lauren and Gabriel are amazing. Saviour is set on real events with twists. But once you start reading it? you have to finish it. I read this in 24 hours, I didnt sleep. I had to finish it. Lauren is a wife of an abusive husband and finds on a night out with her friends her Saviour Gabriel. Gabriel has a past too, whuch makes it more realistic. Two souls that need each other to love and live. The passion from this book, will stay with me for ever. I cannot wait for the second book to come out as we were left on a cliff hanger. Lesley I love and worship you, girl. Tweet soon. Read this book. I Promise, you will not be disappointed xx
March 14, 2014
Review to follow....
Gabriel
April 22, 2021
Saving Sen by Lesley Jones is going to captivate you from the first to the last page. Lauren (Ren) finally decides to leave her abusive husband and falls into the arms of her own knight in shining armor. Gabe is a single dad who is dealing with some emotional baggage and enjoyed his single status until he met Ren. Ren and Gabe fall into a comfortable relationship as Ren’s marriage comes to a painful end. Or does it? I can’t wait to see what happens with Ren and Gabe. What an ending!!! This emotion-packed book hit me with a solid sucker punch in the feels!
September 12, 2013
Women of all ages should read this book. It deals with some heavy issues for both Lauren and Gabe.
Like to read sex scenes and are long and very descriptive? Then you will like this one! Hot hot hot!
Like to read sex scenes and are long and very descriptive? Then you will like this one! Hot hot hot!
July 4, 2013
Lauren is 45 year old real woman leaving an abusive marriage when she meets Gabriel and begin a wonderful journey to love and redemption! So loved this book! 5 big stars! Well written and compelling.
April 14, 2021
(ARC Review)
**********4.5 Wilde Stars***********
I finished reading Saving Ren last night and couldn’t just sit down to review it; I had to just absorb it and figure out how to put into words what I was feeling. And boy it’s a lot…
I went into this booking knowing, at least the main points of the story because, on the off chance you aren’t aware, it's a remastered version, if you will, of Saviour, a book nearly ten years old. I met Gabe Wild and Lauren Day years ago, probably in 2014 if I’m recalling correctly, and to be honest I read at least 200 books a year so there were things I had forgotten about the story. Knowing all this, I didn’t reread the original, and I started Saving Ren as if I was reading a brand-new Lesley Jones book.
I was gripped straight from the prologue and had to binge read it in one sitting. It felt like reading a new story, full of action and pain, love and laughter. Lauren’s journey is harrowing, full of painful moments which, I’m sure, won’t be easy for some people to read. It’s not pretty and it’s not glossed over. There were scenes where I felt like I needed to turn away, they were so painful to read. And yet, I did. I read them and I’m glad I did because watching Lauren’s journey of self discovery after facing one of the hardest things anyone can live through was a beautiful thing. Then there’s Gabe.
I had a clear image of him in my head going into this book because he was one of the standout parts of Saviour for me and I was wondering how his scenes in the story would be changed. Well, I shouldn’t have worried. He was, and still is, an absolute gem of a male lead. While fighting through his own emotional journey, he’s a constant Lauren can lean on to get through the s***storm that has become her life. He does it with humour and grace and just a touch of crazy. The addition of his POV scenes were a happy surprise!
In case you’re thinking to yourself, “Well, I read Saviour. Why would I read Saving Ren?”. In the interest of full disclosure, I went back to Saviour last night, after I finished Saving Ren and I compared them to find the differences. I was blown away at home much I had forgotten, and even more, at how much was changed, but I’m so glad it was. Most of the characters have had a facelift and things are obviously more polished (benefits of experience obviously). Character development has never been one of Lesley’s issues. All of her characters have always felt like real people to me, like people I know or could come to meet, and this hasn’t changed. The biggest change, I found personally, is the structure of the story. It has so much new content and was beautifully edited to the point that this is a new book. A new story that stands on it’s own.
I really can’t say enough good things about this story, about the story arc, about the drama, about Lauren’s relationship with her friends, her sons and with herself. And about Gabriel Wild.
**********4.5 Wilde Stars***********
I finished reading Saving Ren last night and couldn’t just sit down to review it; I had to just absorb it and figure out how to put into words what I was feeling. And boy it’s a lot…
I went into this booking knowing, at least the main points of the story because, on the off chance you aren’t aware, it's a remastered version, if you will, of Saviour, a book nearly ten years old. I met Gabe Wild and Lauren Day years ago, probably in 2014 if I’m recalling correctly, and to be honest I read at least 200 books a year so there were things I had forgotten about the story. Knowing all this, I didn’t reread the original, and I started Saving Ren as if I was reading a brand-new Lesley Jones book.
I was gripped straight from the prologue and had to binge read it in one sitting. It felt like reading a new story, full of action and pain, love and laughter. Lauren’s journey is harrowing, full of painful moments which, I’m sure, won’t be easy for some people to read. It’s not pretty and it’s not glossed over. There were scenes where I felt like I needed to turn away, they were so painful to read. And yet, I did. I read them and I’m glad I did because watching Lauren’s journey of self discovery after facing one of the hardest things anyone can live through was a beautiful thing. Then there’s Gabe.
I had a clear image of him in my head going into this book because he was one of the standout parts of Saviour for me and I was wondering how his scenes in the story would be changed. Well, I shouldn’t have worried. He was, and still is, an absolute gem of a male lead. While fighting through his own emotional journey, he’s a constant Lauren can lean on to get through the s***storm that has become her life. He does it with humour and grace and just a touch of crazy. The addition of his POV scenes were a happy surprise!
In case you’re thinking to yourself, “Well, I read Saviour. Why would I read Saving Ren?”. In the interest of full disclosure, I went back to Saviour last night, after I finished Saving Ren and I compared them to find the differences. I was blown away at home much I had forgotten, and even more, at how much was changed, but I’m so glad it was. Most of the characters have had a facelift and things are obviously more polished (benefits of experience obviously). Character development has never been one of Lesley’s issues. All of her characters have always felt like real people to me, like people I know or could come to meet, and this hasn’t changed. The biggest change, I found personally, is the structure of the story. It has so much new content and was beautifully edited to the point that this is a new book. A new story that stands on it’s own.
I really can’t say enough good things about this story, about the story arc, about the drama, about Lauren’s relationship with her friends, her sons and with herself. And about Gabriel Wild.
January 15, 2016
2.5 - 3 Stars
Wow. I don't even know what to say about this. I read this book because I absolutely loved Carnage by Lesley Jones, and I like authors that lay the drama on thick. However, this book was so disappointing to me. My main issue is that the heroine is so annoying that I literally wanted to just throw things at her! Lauren is 45 years old and Gabriel is 35 years old. The age difference isn't necessarily an issue for me, however, the fact that Lauren is 45 years old and acts like a 16-year-old was the major problem. She was so immature that I literally was going to put this book down and just not finish it. The reason I finished this book was because I kept thinking that things just had to get better, and to be honest, I really finished it out of respect for the author and because I've enjoyed her other books.
This book was in need of some major editing. There were a lot of grammar and punctuation errors that made it difficult to read some parts of the story. There is also a lot of Aussie and English slang, which I don't mind, but can be confusing if you haven't been exposed to it before, and maybe even if you have.
I also could not get around the insta-love. Lauren met Gabe and it was like right away he was in love with her. I didn't understand why or how, and every time Lauren questioned Gabe about why he chose her, I kept thinking, "I'm right there with you girl, I have no idea why he likes you either, you're so annoying!" Their romance was just so unbelievable to me; I just could not get into their love story. Everything about this story screamed, "trying too hard." I am somewhat sympathetic because I believe this was the author's first work, but I must say that Lauren is quite possibly one of the worst heroines I have ever read. I feel terrible saying this because I REALLY love Carnage, but I just could not connect with the heroine or the love story. I will give credit for some steamy scenes though.
I really wanted to love this story, but it fell short for me and was almost a DNF, and no one was more shocked about this than me. I will continue on with book 2 (Resolution) in the hopes that this story can redeem itself in my eyes, but I'm not holding my breath.
Wow. I don't even know what to say about this. I read this book because I absolutely loved Carnage by Lesley Jones, and I like authors that lay the drama on thick. However, this book was so disappointing to me. My main issue is that the heroine is so annoying that I literally wanted to just throw things at her! Lauren is 45 years old and Gabriel is 35 years old. The age difference isn't necessarily an issue for me, however, the fact that Lauren is 45 years old and acts like a 16-year-old was the major problem. She was so immature that I literally was going to put this book down and just not finish it. The reason I finished this book was because I kept thinking that things just had to get better, and to be honest, I really finished it out of respect for the author and because I've enjoyed her other books.
This book was in need of some major editing. There were a lot of grammar and punctuation errors that made it difficult to read some parts of the story. There is also a lot of Aussie and English slang, which I don't mind, but can be confusing if you haven't been exposed to it before, and maybe even if you have.
I also could not get around the insta-love. Lauren met Gabe and it was like right away he was in love with her. I didn't understand why or how, and every time Lauren questioned Gabe about why he chose her, I kept thinking, "I'm right there with you girl, I have no idea why he likes you either, you're so annoying!" Their romance was just so unbelievable to me; I just could not get into their love story. Everything about this story screamed, "trying too hard." I am somewhat sympathetic because I believe this was the author's first work, but I must say that Lauren is quite possibly one of the worst heroines I have ever read. I feel terrible saying this because I REALLY love Carnage, but I just could not connect with the heroine or the love story. I will give credit for some steamy scenes though.
I really wanted to love this story, but it fell short for me and was almost a DNF, and no one was more shocked about this than me. I will continue on with book 2 (Resolution) in the hopes that this story can redeem itself in my eyes, but I'm not holding my breath.
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