Far From Home

by Victoria Stolte

Marrying her High School sweetheart Jade thinks things cant get any better she has finally found someone stable in her life and cannot wait to live the rest of it as Mrs. Hunter Hayes. Little does she know that happy ever after is about to change and it just seems to keep getting worse. Fearing for her life and with the help of a good friend she manages to escape the hell that has been her life for too long.. But to what?


Chance has issues of his own but after a brief meeting in a parking lot, then finding himself standing in front of this beautiful girl that takes his breath away for a second time, he finds himself making excuses to be where she is. Soon he is starting to think about giving up his bachelor lifestyle if she would only give him a Chance.. Can he win her over and prove to her that she needs him as much as he needs her?

Together they find themselves connecting and after some extreme circumstances we find ourselves wondering will they be able to find their ways together or will they only end in disaster?

Genres: Romance

89 pages, Kindle Edition

First published February 3, 2015

About the author

V. Stolte has lived in the Midwest her whole life. She is a stay at home mother of four and has always enjoyed reading and writing. When she is not chasing the kids or the furbabies she also enjoys photography, outdoor stuff, and maybe a bit of reality T.V. but don't hold that against her. Far From Home is her debut Novella, and she hopes to be able to bring more to you in the future. You can find her here on FaceBook and stay up to date.

FB Page: https://www.facebook.com/vickestoltea...

Reviews

[Christy McCurry · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was graciously provided a copy of Far from Home

This was a wonderful Debut novel from V. Stolte
It is a very busy and fast paced read..
Jade has not has a easy life, far from it. Growing up with a less than adequate alcoholic mother (whom she refers to as the Warden) and a father who was hardly around. Meeting Hunter was suppose to be her fairy tale... Her Happy Ever After turned into 6 years of living in fear. Running seems to be her only option and the start of a new life, new identity, But can you really run from your life?


While Jade (Tori) is working on rebuilding her life she encounter Chance. Chance has some deep seeded issues himself that steams from his childhood and the abuse his father dished out. Never wanting to bring that kind of pain to someone decides to never allow himself to get emotionally involved with anyone. That was until Tori (Jade)


Will Jade(Tori)and Chance be able to put to put their past behind them. Make a fresh start for themselves, or will the past make its self known and destroy any future?

[Lynn Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

Debut novel from V. Stolte and she is off to a wonderful start. jade is on the run from a abusive marriage. Trying to get as far away as she could and start over with a new life. Ending up in a safe house Jade thinks she can finally relax a little and rebuild her life. Sometimes your life follows you. Chance has issues from being abused as a child. he feels an attraction to Jade but both are afraid of taking that step.

The author tackled a difficult subject in this book. Not only was the Jade a victim of domestic abuse, Chance was damaged from his childhood. But the story flows along nicely and the characters have depth. As they heal and learn to move forward with their lives. Jade and Chance slowly build a friendship. When Jade's life catches up with her, Chance is there every step of the way showing her that there are good men out there.

[Harmony Stalter · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had the chance to beta read this book for Victoria. I loved it. This romance suspense book had everything you could have wanted in a book. When she releases it, I would recommend you pick it up.

[Suleika Santana -All About Books · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was one of the lucky Beta readers. *Ecopy provided in exchange for an honest review
Because I was one of the Beta's I didn't review right away because I knew the author was changing some stuff and I wanted to read the latest version of the story.
This is Victoria's debut novella and I have to say that I am very proud of her work and I am very happy that she let me read it.
The story is about a very difficult subject, not everyone can write about domestic abuse but she did a wonderful job at it. If you have trouble reading about the subject then be warned, the story is quite dark at some parts and she does describe what is going on.
The characters are likable, not the villains (there are more than one) but all the others are great.
The story is not all dark, there are a few funny parts and there is also a love story in there.
I will recommend you pick this one up and read it, it's a great story!

[Kalli sisk · Rating 5 out of 5]

I so love this book it has a lot of suspend ans suspicions it in . This book so awesome I can't wait for her next one whenever that will be . I'm just glad that I got the chance to read it for her .you rock victoria stolte . I love your first book and can't wait for the next

[Veronica · Rating 5 out of 5]

This novella deals with the sensitive and unsettling reality of domestic abuse. It is a stark but also encouraging story about Jade's escape from a horrible situation and her heroic attempts to begin a new life including a romance with a new man. Well done and highly recommended.

[DebbieReadsBooks · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was gifted my copy direct from Ms Stolte in exchange for my review.

Jade runs from her abusive husband after giving him some pills in his rum. Her best friend Janice tlls Jade she's killed him and to lay low. Starting again at the Haven Project was just what Jade needed. Meeting Chance? not so much, but there is a connection, a spark, and neither Jade nor Chance can deny it for long. But the dead refuse to stay so, and soon, Jade's worst nightmare returns for his revenge.

Tackling a difficult subject of martial abuse takes skill, tackling it with the sensitivity it needs, even greater skill, and I applaud Ms Stolte for her skill in that regard. More so, since I discovered this is a first time author! Yes, Jade sufffers, yes, she is STILL suffering, but getting away is all the strength she needs right now.

Its written mostly from Jade's POV, in the first person and in present tense. Possibly my least favourite combination, ever. And this is why I can't give it anymore. It is just MY opinion, and thats what reviewing is all about, what YOU like or don't like.

we also get some Chance, Some Hunter,Jade's husband, and some Mitch, Hunter's friend, but these get their say in the third person. I do love hearing from everyone involved, even if what they have to say isn't much worht the cyberspace its written in!

It says its 89 pages on Amazon, but it did not feel that way, it felt much longer, but in a good way.

I would like to say one thing: this is Ms Stolte's first book. Watch this lady as she grows and finds her literary feet. You'll see!

Rape, abuse, drugs, kidnapping and murder. Not a fluffy romance by any stretch of the imagination. BUT a bloody good book, especially from a first time author.

Thank you, agan, Ms Stolte for my copy.

4 stars

**same worded review will appear on Goodreads, Amazon.com and Amazon.co.uk**

[Katie Harder-schauer · Rating 2 out of 5]

I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

This story has potential. The basic plot is solid and the idea behind the story is good. Unfortunately, in my opinion, it needs a lot of polishing.

My first and biggest issue is with the spelling and grammar. Those issues are numerous and far exceed the amount I would find acceptable in a book of any size. In some cases punctuation is misused (and yes, I notice those things), there was excessive and incorrect use of capital letters, and there were many instances where the author tense jumped her verbs. An example of every single one of these issues can be found in a two sentence segment. 'We finished our Icees and got up to leave. As I'm heading out of the big mall doors, I made it about two steps when I hear "WAIT!"'

Another problem for me is that I felt like I was being told everything instead of shown most things. There were several scenes that I couldn't even picture in my mind because there was very little description, and the descriptions that were present, were rushed and confusing.

The story progressed really quickly and time was passing that I wasn't even aware of. It felt to me like the whole story took place over the course of a couple of weeks, but there were the occasional random time indicators informing me that it had been much longer.

Overall I give this book 2 out of 5 stars because it has potential, but I feel like it needs a lot of work.

Reviewed on Just Another Girl and Her Books blog.
http://www.justanothergirlandherbooks...

[Tiffany Landers · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! The author does an incredible job of capturing the heart of domestic violence in her debut novel, Far From Home. As I read this book, I was amazed that this was a debut novel as Victoria Stolte manages to capture romance, intrigue, humor, heartbreak and hope in this gripping novel that I could not put down. I don't like to post spoilers, so I won't tell you the story (you'll have to read it to find out for yourself), but I will say that Jade is a survivor of domestic violence and, having been down this road myself, I was very impressed with the factual manner in which the author describes Jade's emotions and actions in the all too prevalent situations women (and sometimes men) find themselves if he or she are also suffering this way of life.

Can Jade find love again? Can she take a "Chance"? Look no further for your next read ... this is the one!

Fantastic job, Victoria Stolte!!! I can't wait for your next novel to be released!!!!

Tiffany Reid - Have You Heard Book Blog

[Vicky · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was given this book by the author in exchange for an honest review. I gave this book 5 stars. In my opinion it is one of the best books I've read. The characters are heart warming and so well though out. Chance is the kind of guy I wish I could meet. Jade is a battered and broken victim of Domestic violence. The love they find is slow in coming, but strong. Ms. Stole stars her career with one of the hardest subjects out there as her first book. She takes you into the world of Domestic violence and shares all of the ugly truths. I can't wait for her next book!

[C · Rating 5 out of 5]

Total fear and redemption

This debut read blew me away. It had me feeling at times like on a rollercoaster at the first big drop and then whoosh up again, steady the course and climb. What a great way to bring awareness to these issues in a captivating way. Awaiting the next marvel you dish out. Congrats!

[A. Zavarelli · Rating 5 out of 5]

V. Stolte has written an intriguing tale of romantic suspense with a cast of characters I couldn’t help but connect with. Jade’s plight had me sympathizing and rooting for her right out of the gate. On the run from her abusive husband, her journey takes a surprising turn as she receives news from back home. Her escape is fraught with an unexpected twist and a slew of lovely people who help her along the way. This also leads her to Chance, who is one of those guys you’d definitely want to come in and sweep you off of your feet. But he has some issues himself, and the two of them are both fighting their growing attraction. At the end of the day, they must both question if they can put their pasts behind them and move on together after the enormity of what they’ve been through.
On a final note, I love that the author has chosen to support a very important cause with her work. Jade is a strong female character and this book definitely left me feeling the whole spectrum of emotions while reading it. Props to the author for bringing attention to this cause and writing a fantastic story to boot.

[Sheryl · Rating 4 out of 5]

I liked the story line of this book. Mrs Stolte has brought to light a serious problem some woman face and don't know how or see a way to get out of. She takes us on a journey with Jade as she tries for a fresh start with the help of some people along the way. Then she runs into Chance who has some worries of his own. They are drawn to each other but there are other things standing in their way. Will Jade be able to overcome her past so she can have a happier future?

[Gwen Shafer · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was an amazing story from a new author. This was not only a new author to me but this is also her first book. And what a book. This book is about domestic violence and a woman fighting for her life and starting over. Or at least trying too. Jade is on the run from her ex. Once people find out about her ex she becomes someone else and hides even more. While hiding she becomes Tori and meets yummy Chance. I love the chemistry between these two. You can easily see how well these two will get along once given the chance. But fate has something else in store for them. This storyline at times was heart wrenching. It had me in tears at times. The author did an amazing job writing about this situation and the feelings that a woman has with trying to start over. A quick read but worth it. Loved the storyline and the characters. I cant wait to read more from this author.

[Sharron Brown · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book starts with a  young woman Jade escaping her abusive marriage helped by her Janie her best friend. As the reader the awful realism of what she's endured is revealed from her internal dialogue whilst the bus takes her further away from her personal hell.
As Jade reinvents herself she begins to meet people who help her get herself back, to not live in fear and learn to trust. Chance is one, he also has demons and is carrying alot of guilt because from an incident in his past.
The other characters that contribute towards the unfolding plot are written in the third person. 
There are further atrocious acts carried out against Jade and her female friends.
 Although fast paced this story is covering several weeks of stalking, disappearance, manipulation and explosions of abuse, death  with a big finale and a HEA no-one could begrudge Jade and Chance.

[Dawn Schlicher · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very good book! Kept my interest from the beginning. Only thing I would have changed was an update on Angela and more information about the people that helped the abused women.

[Cristie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a very good book. Just when I thought I knew what was going to happen things would take a turn and change directions. Kept me interested and couldnt wait to see what happened next or at the end.

[S.M. Koz · Rating 4 out of 5]

Get ready to be on the edge of your seat!

Far From Home is a great romantic suspense. While the beginning focused on how a woman tries to get her life back after years of domestic abuse, about two-thirds of the way in, the action really picks up. I was literally on the edge of my seat for the last 25% with all the danger and a nice twist.

My one nitpick would be that there are some tense/grammar issues. However, that sort of thing usually really bothers me, but it didn’t here. I think that’s because the plot was so compelling I was able to overlook the little stuff to focus on the big picture.

The author’s voice is really unique in this book. I felt like the beginning was almost as though we were reading the victim’s diary. There were numerous small details about the main character's feelings or how things were done that made me think the author either has experience with domestic violence, knows people who have, or did extensive research for this book. Whatever the case, it added a nice bit of realism and tackled a tough subject very tactfully.

I recommend this book to anyone who likes romantic suspense and doesn’t get bogged down with some editorial issues. If you fall into that category, I think you’ll love it. Personally, I’m looking forward to the next book by Victoria Stolte!

[Ashley Hayes · Rating 5 out of 5]

I always wonder at the level of fear that will make a woman stay for years or even a lifetime with a man when he is abusive to her. I know it happens and some women have been knocked down so much that they just can’t get back up but Jade is not one of those women. With the help of her best friend, she manages to get away from her abusive husband and runs as far as she can. When she stops, she stays with a couple who eventually help her get farther away by connecting her with a network of women who help other battered women. She meets Chance and starts to open up to him little by little but then the worst possible thing happens………but I won’t spoil it for you. All is well in the end but I do like the very atypical plot twist that gets thrown in by the author. It is a very fast paced book but an easy read.

ARC provided for review.

[Kat Loves · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story truely touched my heart in more ways than one.

Victoria Stolte give an inside view of domestic violence that is real and fairly accurate. She takes us on a journey into the difficult violent life of Jade as she deals with her abuse and learns to come out of it sane and strong.

The added bonus of her romance with Chance was not forced and flowed naturally. I think Chance has a piece of me heart because he is just so patient and caring.

I don't want to spoil the story for anyone so I'll just say that if you want to read a story that is very realistic and heartfelt than read this book! It's the kind of book that you stumble across rarely because it is so close to reality that you can picture yourself or even your loved ones living through it.

Thank you Victoria for sharing such a profoundly beautiful story with the world.

[Laura · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fantastic debut novel! It had my heart pounding at times.
I won't give you spoilers, but near the end - TWISTS! You may jump out of your chair.

Part romance, starting over, adventure and horror - an all around well told tale of struggle and survival -
with a message to anyone, male or female, who finds themself in a situation they had not foreseen.
Do not be afraid to ask for help - there are good people out there that may have been in bad situations of their own.

Recommended for mature readers over the age of 16 as there is some graphic violence.
I was gifted a copy from the author without any promises of review.

[Ebony · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed reading this book. I LOVE that the author gave a voice to abused women and showed some of the truly ugly and horrific sides to domestic violence. This is a great book that showcases Jade's strength and perseverance.

There were a few grammatical errors in the book that made reading a bit difficult. There are a few instances where the author goes back and forth with her tenses (i.e. was verses is...) But this is still a book that I would recommend. It is a beautifully and brutally honest 2nd chance romance story. You can't help but hope that the main character Jade will finally get the peace and happiness that she deserves.

[Penny · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was given a copy of this book by the author for an honest review.

Far From Home tackles the very difficult subject of Domestic Violence in telling Jade's story. The story follows her through the steps it took to be free. From planning to leave, what drove her to do so, going to a safe house and finding her own way. Even finding a someone new she could trust after all she'd been though.

I was reading along and I admit, I thought *sigh* kind of predictable then whoaaa! Holy twists! I'm glad I stuck it out til the end, it was worth it.

[Nerd Girl Vixen · Rating 5 out of 5]

*I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review*

Far From Home by V. Stolte is one of those heartfelt and touching reads that stays with you long after you’re done reading. Right from the beginning, you’re taking on one woman’s journey as she fights to stay alive and one step ahead of danger. Jade is a great, strong, and relatable character. This books touches on a sensitive subject. Abuse is never easy to write about. That being said, I feel Miss Stolte did an excellent job. This truly a great read and I look forward to reading more from this author. I give this 5 stars!

[Karen Shortridge · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was given this for my honest review, this is a story about a woman who didn't have a great start and thought she had found her happy ever after, how wrong could she have been. this is a fantastic, true to life, amazing read, it took me right along with her, such a strong character to get through what she has and the writing ability to be able to do this just amazed me, there is a hero but I think the strength in this book is the ability to see light at the end of the tunnel

[Belinda Visser · Rating 5 out of 5]

Far from home is heartbreaking and compelling story and it's different to what I normally read. The books isn't just about domestic abuse but violence and betrayal.
This story is about Jade finding her freedom from her abusive husband. Far from home had my anxiety going crazy with the suspense, twist and turns that will make you jump in surprise. Can Jade find love and trust Chance after what she's been through?

[Corinne Scott · Rating 5 out of 5]

Growing up I always loved a good made for TV movie because the situations and characters seemed so real. That's exactly when I got with Stolte's Far From Home. The chapters told in various POVs was very different from what I normally read, but perfect for this type of novel about domestic abuse. I couldn't put it down and finished it in one sitting. Great job!

[Jeanine Walsh palinkas · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was gifted this book in exchange for a honest review. This was a quick, action filled read that kept me in suspense. domestic violence is not an easy subject for some to acknowledge, I applaud this author for actually taking the time to write about it.

[JC (Jen) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Far From Home is such an amazing read! It was a fast read because it kept you flipping pages to find out what would happen next! The suspense had you on edge and the emotion was real. This was an all-around great book and I can’t wait to read more from V! I highly recommend this book <3

[Heather Vaughn · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a great read. This book is well written. I really enjoyed reading this book. It had me stuck in it from the very beginning. I am so glad that Jade gets a happy ending for the life she was dealt.