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Following the Sun
Nate Wilson lives his life with pride and heart. When his pops hands down the family bowling alley in Framingham, Massachusetts, he doesn't think twice about making it his own. Nate is a guy's guy. He is true to his old friends, his family, his dates, and his business.
Sunny, a vivacious and mysterious woman frequents the alley all of a sudden. Somehow she catches Nate's attention and holds it. Nate becomes slightly obsessed with who she is and why she loves the bowling alley.He is not one to be easily distracted by a woman to the point of letting his priorities fall the wayside.
However, after he follows his instinct, Nate finds himself entranced, enthralled, and in the worst predicament of his steady life.
Sunny, a vivacious and mysterious woman frequents the alley all of a sudden. Somehow she catches Nate's attention and holds it. Nate becomes slightly obsessed with who she is and why she loves the bowling alley.He is not one to be easily distracted by a woman to the point of letting his priorities fall the wayside.
However, after he follows his instinct, Nate finds himself entranced, enthralled, and in the worst predicament of his steady life.
288 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 25, 2015
About the author
Alisa Mullen
20 books298 followersAlisa Mullen is the author of the Best Selling Saga, The Chosen Series and the Best Selling psychological suspense novels, Plastic Confidence and Artificial Love. She also published Following the Sun,77 Steps, One Missing Link,The Business Trip, and many other short stories and novellas. She has resurfaced in 2019 to finish The Good Bye Trilogy.
Even though Alisa grew up in Down East Maine, she received a BA from Texas A&M University and a MS from Our Lady of Lake University in San Antonio, Texas. When she isn't writing, she enjoys hiking the Texas Hill Country, traveling and cultivating her other talents.
Mullen lives in Schertz, Texas with her two teens and their animals. Please email her at alimullenbooks@gmail.com
Even though Alisa grew up in Down East Maine, she received a BA from Texas A&M University and a MS from Our Lady of Lake University in San Antonio, Texas. When she isn't writing, she enjoys hiking the Texas Hill Country, traveling and cultivating her other talents.
Mullen lives in Schertz, Texas with her two teens and their animals. Please email her at alimullenbooks@gmail.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
December 1, 2014
"Alisa Mullen has truly out done herself!! This was so very much an amazing story of America today. Addiction is everywhere and has touched everyone in some form or another. This author takes it to a human level reminding us everyone deserves love no matter what."
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February 23, 2015
4.5
Unexpectedly profound. What a brave book.
Following the Sun is an awesome take on drug addiction, guilt and a loving unconditionally.
The story follows two people who couldn't be more different from each other. Nate is the person who likes his routinary life. He is content with what he's doing and what he has. He wasn't looking for something more until he finds Sunny. Sunny is a girl who gets in your face the moment you meet. She has her demons. She's different and she's his "unexpected". This "unexpected" shakes his routinary life. He suddenly finds himself drawn to her. From thereon, they take on a journey that's really imperfect, but still beautiful. :)
While reading this, I found it very interesting to know more about Sunny's life. You see, in the amount of POVs department, Nate wins. I think I read more about what he's thinking that what Sunny was thinking ( which is just the way I like it). With that, I only see glimpses of Sunny's life. It was fun unearthing her character. She's a happy woman when she's not down in the dumps. I like how she's depicted as perfect and imperfect at the same time. Haha! Oh my, it's so hard to explain. Read it! You'll like her!
Nate on the other hand, gosh.. you just have to give him 1,000 sweet points! He was the "i-don't-want-commitments" at first, but when he met Sunny, his match, he was like "I-can't-live-without-her and all that. I admire him because he isn't afraid to say how he feels. I also admire him because he doesn't judge. He himself admitted that loving a drug addict is hard, but he still did it. I love how he is with Sunny and I love how he thinks of her. I really want everyone to know just how sweet this guy is.... soooo read it! You would love him!
The dilemma in the book is pretty hard to swallow. I am so glad that the ending made a way for everything to be settled. I also love the fact that the ending is not a liar. I say that because I know from studying in Nursing school that drug addiction has no cure. I mean you can have rehab and all, but there are relapses, and it's a constant battle for a person. I love that the book didn't say that the rode into the sunset and lived happily ever after. The ending makes it clear that they are living happily even with all the bumps. I love it. This is a must read. :)
I would have given this a perfect 5, but there are some parts wherein I felt like "Oh, that was too fast." Anyway, they made it work until the end, so still... 4.5!
An ARC was provided to me in exchange for an honest review.
Unexpectedly profound. What a brave book.
Following the Sun is an awesome take on drug addiction, guilt and a loving unconditionally.
The story follows two people who couldn't be more different from each other. Nate is the person who likes his routinary life. He is content with what he's doing and what he has. He wasn't looking for something more until he finds Sunny. Sunny is a girl who gets in your face the moment you meet. She has her demons. She's different and she's his "unexpected". This "unexpected" shakes his routinary life. He suddenly finds himself drawn to her. From thereon, they take on a journey that's really imperfect, but still beautiful. :)
While reading this, I found it very interesting to know more about Sunny's life. You see, in the amount of POVs department, Nate wins. I think I read more about what he's thinking that what Sunny was thinking ( which is just the way I like it). With that, I only see glimpses of Sunny's life. It was fun unearthing her character. She's a happy woman when she's not down in the dumps. I like how she's depicted as perfect and imperfect at the same time. Haha! Oh my, it's so hard to explain. Read it! You'll like her!
Nate on the other hand, gosh.. you just have to give him 1,000 sweet points! He was the "i-don't-want-commitments" at first, but when he met Sunny, his match, he was like "I-can't-live-without-her and all that. I admire him because he isn't afraid to say how he feels. I also admire him because he doesn't judge. He himself admitted that loving a drug addict is hard, but he still did it. I love how he is with Sunny and I love how he thinks of her. I really want everyone to know just how sweet this guy is.... soooo read it! You would love him!
The dilemma in the book is pretty hard to swallow. I am so glad that the ending made a way for everything to be settled. I also love the fact that the ending is not a liar. I say that because I know from studying in Nursing school that drug addiction has no cure. I mean you can have rehab and all, but there are relapses, and it's a constant battle for a person. I love that the book didn't say that the rode into the sunset and lived happily ever after. The ending makes it clear that they are living happily even with all the bumps. I love it. This is a must read. :)
I would have given this a perfect 5, but there are some parts wherein I felt like "Oh, that was too fast." Anyway, they made it work until the end, so still... 4.5!
An ARC was provided to me in exchange for an honest review.
January 25, 2015
Another crazy, intense, and beautiful story from Alisa! The characters and dealing with addiction, just grabbed me and I couldn't put the book down! Another must read story!
January 17, 2015
Following the Sun brings together the all American dream boy and the troubled young lady trapped in a past of misunderstanding and hurt. It is a great example of one following his heart when others are against him and never giving up on LOVE. This book was a very powerful read for me, as it brought out memories from my own past of loving someone with an addiction amd helping them overcome it. It brought me to tears, it made me laugh, it made me shake my fist in anger and sometimes it even made me do one or more together.
Alisa delivers in true Mullen fashion once again. She has always written from the heart and is a straight shooter when it comes to the toughest of topics. She takes her passions in life to a whole new level and it clearly shows in her writing. Following the Sun is yet another perfect example of that. This book reminds its readers that everyone is fighting a battle even if we can't see it. It brings to light even the darkest sides of addiction and all that goes with it. Following the Sun doesn't sugar coat anything about the harsh realities of addiction.
Alisa delivers in true Mullen fashion once again. She has always written from the heart and is a straight shooter when it comes to the toughest of topics. She takes her passions in life to a whole new level and it clearly shows in her writing. Following the Sun is yet another perfect example of that. This book reminds its readers that everyone is fighting a battle even if we can't see it. It brings to light even the darkest sides of addiction and all that goes with it. Following the Sun doesn't sugar coat anything about the harsh realities of addiction.
February 9, 2015
Following the Sun was truly an amazing book! Alisa Mullen captures the reality of America today. Addiction is everywhere and everyone has been affected by this in some fashion. She shows us the good and bad about loving someone with Addiction issues. This book is a must read! She gave me goosebumps reading and it truly touched my soul. This author shows us that no matter what, everyone deserves love. Even in the darkness, there is light if you follow the Sun.
January 26, 2015
Above all else this is a love story…a love story hidden among outside forces that occur in everyday life. Nate is a down to earth, hard working guy content in his carefree lifestyle. He runs a bowling alley inherited from his father, lives with his best friend, and enjoys all the benefits of single life…until he gets the wind knocked out of him by a very feisty and damaged woman.
Sunny is a mess! She battles the demon of addiction caused by the guilt of her parents death. She has taken the blame of the accident that killed her parents upon herself based on her childish recollection of the accident. With no family she was placed into foster care with nobody to ever explain to her or talk to her about what happened. Drugs became her outlet in dealing with the guilt. Never believing herself to be worthy of love and never expecting to live long enough to become attached to anyone…until she meets Nate.
The love that grows between Nate and Sunny in the hurricane of adversity, the intensity of their feelings, and their chemistry is mind blowing. It is also heart breaking, frustrating, and gut wrenching!
Following The Sun was an amazing read that really hit home for me being not only the product of an alcoholic mother, but also the victim of her violent death at very young age. It was easy for me to identify with Sunny’s grief and confusion, as well as her source of addiction. I throw my hat off to Alisa and her ability to REALLY bring Sunny to life…the good and the bad. There are too many people who really don’t understand that every addiction has pain behind it and how hard it is for a person addicted to confront that pain when they have been hiding it behind the guise of drugs, alcohol, or sex for so long.
I loved this book…I loved the characters…and I loved the emotional roller coaster ride I was taken on. There are a lot of wonderful authors and wonderful books out there but there are some that stand above the rest…for me this was one of them. Maybe it was because it affected me on such a personal level but I truly “FELT” this book and the struggles the characters went through. I would definitely recommend this to anyone over 18 (due to sexual content), but caution that there may be triggers for those who have had experience with addiction and loss so grab your tissues loves!
Sunny is a mess! She battles the demon of addiction caused by the guilt of her parents death. She has taken the blame of the accident that killed her parents upon herself based on her childish recollection of the accident. With no family she was placed into foster care with nobody to ever explain to her or talk to her about what happened. Drugs became her outlet in dealing with the guilt. Never believing herself to be worthy of love and never expecting to live long enough to become attached to anyone…until she meets Nate.
The love that grows between Nate and Sunny in the hurricane of adversity, the intensity of their feelings, and their chemistry is mind blowing. It is also heart breaking, frustrating, and gut wrenching!
Following The Sun was an amazing read that really hit home for me being not only the product of an alcoholic mother, but also the victim of her violent death at very young age. It was easy for me to identify with Sunny’s grief and confusion, as well as her source of addiction. I throw my hat off to Alisa and her ability to REALLY bring Sunny to life…the good and the bad. There are too many people who really don’t understand that every addiction has pain behind it and how hard it is for a person addicted to confront that pain when they have been hiding it behind the guise of drugs, alcohol, or sex for so long.
I loved this book…I loved the characters…and I loved the emotional roller coaster ride I was taken on. There are a lot of wonderful authors and wonderful books out there but there are some that stand above the rest…for me this was one of them. Maybe it was because it affected me on such a personal level but I truly “FELT” this book and the struggles the characters went through. I would definitely recommend this to anyone over 18 (due to sexual content), but caution that there may be triggers for those who have had experience with addiction and loss so grab your tissues loves!
February 23, 2015
4 stars
Such an dark & emotional read! This book deals with Sunny's (Ashley) addictions and thoughts of suicide that break your heart. She is such an emotional mess when she meets Nate. Have to admit I wasn't a fan of his at first but he just went & made me fall in love with him! He is so determined to help Sunny & in doing so changes himself.
Suicide & addiction are a very tough topic & I felt the book was written very well in explaining why Sunny felt the way she did & how the addiction would take ahold of her. I also loved how she showed how it affected the people who care about you. Nate knew there was no cure for Sunny's addiction but he loved her more & more everyday day.
"After all, loving her had always been MY addiction and I refused to get help for that".
Reviewed by: Penny
Such an dark & emotional read! This book deals with Sunny's (Ashley) addictions and thoughts of suicide that break your heart. She is such an emotional mess when she meets Nate. Have to admit I wasn't a fan of his at first but he just went & made me fall in love with him! He is so determined to help Sunny & in doing so changes himself.
Suicide & addiction are a very tough topic & I felt the book was written very well in explaining why Sunny felt the way she did & how the addiction would take ahold of her. I also loved how she showed how it affected the people who care about you. Nate knew there was no cure for Sunny's addiction but he loved her more & more everyday day.
"After all, loving her had always been MY addiction and I refused to get help for that".
Reviewed by: Penny
February 20, 2015
Alisa Mullen is a favourite of mine and I was looking forward to reading her newest release, especially after hearing such great reviews on social media. I am in agreement on the whole with those positive reviews. Nate is a hottie there is no doubt about that, however there is something missing from his personality to put him high up my book boyfriend list. He is just not alpha male enough for me. Sunny is a girl broken from a life full of misunderstanding. Nate brings the sun back into her life. The topic of addiction is prevalent throughout and is realistically portrayed and not dramatized. Overall I enjoyed this book and award it 4 stars ~ Rosie
October 24, 2015
Wow was I blown away with the overpowering emotions this book will bring to the readers. You could compare it to a building volcano, building and building till you know it is going to explode.
Very powerful..Very Emotional..Very Sadly True Nowadays. Drug addiction and those who Love them unconditionally is a sensitive issue some face daily, but with Love...all things are possible with time.
Nate and Sunny's story will take you on a journey of overcoming, concurring, and facing some really hard truths, both with each other and themselves.
Alisha Mullen writes a beautiful yet stormy story with such intensity and honesty it is aweinspiring.
Very powerful..Very Emotional..Very Sadly True Nowadays. Drug addiction and those who Love them unconditionally is a sensitive issue some face daily, but with Love...all things are possible with time.
Nate and Sunny's story will take you on a journey of overcoming, concurring, and facing some really hard truths, both with each other and themselves.
Alisha Mullen writes a beautiful yet stormy story with such intensity and honesty it is aweinspiring.
November 18, 2015
This was a very emotionally intense book. The characters are polar opposites, but you know what they say ......"Opposites Attract"!
The author made every page believable as a heartfelt relationship between these characters .
I'm glad I was able to take this journey with Nate & Sunny . Thank you Alisa for a beautifully written romance
The author made every page believable as a heartfelt relationship between these characters .
I'm glad I was able to take this journey with Nate & Sunny . Thank you Alisa for a beautifully written romance
January 17, 2015
I liked Nate from the first chapter and then BAM I fell in LOVE with him!!! To have someone that is willing to see through all the crazy shit and just love you for you has to be the most amazing feeling ever!!! I am so glad he didn't stop following the Sun!!
July 24, 2021
Terrific Story & Narration🎧 Engrossing & Heartfelt!
Following the Sun: A Novel
By: Alisa Mullen
Narrated by: Jonathan Waters
I enjoyed this book immensely, the story is well written and original, it swept me in right from the start and captivated my attention the entire time. This book is not your typical romance novel, it is so much more, there is a lot of depth to the story and it touches on all of your emotions. It is my first book written by Alisa Mullen but it will not be my last, I am looking forward to checking out more of her work. The characters are realistic, easy to relate to and connect with. Nate Wilson runs a bowling ally, a family business that was passed down to him. He has his routine down to the day, knows the ins and outs fo the business like the back of his hand. He and his friend also have a routine with the woman they are involved with but rules/routine goes out the window when someone catches his attention. Sunny, is one complicated and broken person with a lot of issues. Guilt is an ugly monster and it has ruled her life since she was a young girl. She has one goal in life and it is a dark one. Nathan sees her but does not understand her torment, but he is determined to save her. Her appearance at the bowling alley was a connection to her past, she finds another connection to her past as well. And that connection is probably what saves her and her misconceptions. This story contains a whole lot of heart, the story is beautifully plotted with plenty of drama, angst, a touch of humor here and there, heartfelt emotions and a romance that is meant to be. Alisa Mullen, thank you for the great story and emotional rollercoaster ride.
🎧📚🎧 And for the fabulous narration, Jonathan Waters is a talented narrator and voice artist. He did a great job bringing the characters, humanizing them, giving each their own voice and personality. He had a complete understanding of each character he portrayed and took the roles and made it his own. You could hear how much heart he put in to his work as he captured the character’s emotions and projected them into his performance. He is an entertaining storyteller and a pleasure to listen to. Thank you for the great listen🎧
Following the Sun: A Novel
By: Alisa Mullen
Narrated by: Jonathan Waters
I enjoyed this book immensely, the story is well written and original, it swept me in right from the start and captivated my attention the entire time. This book is not your typical romance novel, it is so much more, there is a lot of depth to the story and it touches on all of your emotions. It is my first book written by Alisa Mullen but it will not be my last, I am looking forward to checking out more of her work. The characters are realistic, easy to relate to and connect with. Nate Wilson runs a bowling ally, a family business that was passed down to him. He has his routine down to the day, knows the ins and outs fo the business like the back of his hand. He and his friend also have a routine with the woman they are involved with but rules/routine goes out the window when someone catches his attention. Sunny, is one complicated and broken person with a lot of issues. Guilt is an ugly monster and it has ruled her life since she was a young girl. She has one goal in life and it is a dark one. Nathan sees her but does not understand her torment, but he is determined to save her. Her appearance at the bowling alley was a connection to her past, she finds another connection to her past as well. And that connection is probably what saves her and her misconceptions. This story contains a whole lot of heart, the story is beautifully plotted with plenty of drama, angst, a touch of humor here and there, heartfelt emotions and a romance that is meant to be. Alisa Mullen, thank you for the great story and emotional rollercoaster ride.
🎧📚🎧 And for the fabulous narration, Jonathan Waters is a talented narrator and voice artist. He did a great job bringing the characters, humanizing them, giving each their own voice and personality. He had a complete understanding of each character he portrayed and took the roles and made it his own. You could hear how much heart he put in to his work as he captured the character’s emotions and projected them into his performance. He is an entertaining storyteller and a pleasure to listen to. Thank you for the great listen🎧
February 21, 2020
Finding a new to me author that I enjoy gives me that wonderful feeling inside. Alisa Mullen is new to me, and this story is not only a wonderful love story, but has so much more to it. Nate is running the family bowling alley and meets Sunny through mutual friends at the alley and can't get her off of his mind. Not only is she beautiful, but she is brutally honest. Normally not a relationship type of guy, but he is taken with her. Ashley Sunterra, or Sunny as she is known has a drug problem. Very open and honest about it, she is trying to get clean, but things are never as easy as they seem. Her problems run deep and continue to haunt her. Can these two find a way to be together? Mullen has crafted this story, investing our souls into the characters. Nate is truly an interesting man. He is responsible, smart and loyal. His reactions are human and understandable, though frustrating at times. Ashley is so realistic, finding out the roots of her problems, it's easy to see how things are for her. Mullen gives it all to us, no sugar coating but letting us feel the pain and suffering of these characters, seeing how addiction effects all the people in the circle and how unconditional love can change a life.
Jonathan Waters gives an emotionally charged performance. I really like his voice and his ability to switch between male and female characters. But what made this book for me was the feelings that he put into Nate and Ashley. We could feel the pain, the guilt, the frustration and the love with his inflections. It is a listen you do not want to miss!
Jonathan Waters gives an emotionally charged performance. I really like his voice and his ability to switch between male and female characters. But what made this book for me was the feelings that he put into Nate and Ashley. We could feel the pain, the guilt, the frustration and the love with his inflections. It is a listen you do not want to miss!
July 24, 2021
Real and honest!
I found this story to be profound and thought provoking. I really enjoyed the honesty of real life issues combined with romance. This was a highly emotional story and Jonathan Waters did good job making me feel all the emotions. This narration was very good.
I recommend this book.
Sisters Spotlight 💜
I found this story to be profound and thought provoking. I really enjoyed the honesty of real life issues combined with romance. This was a highly emotional story and Jonathan Waters did good job making me feel all the emotions. This narration was very good.
I recommend this book.
Sisters Spotlight 💜
March 22, 2015
Remember this sentence: You have no control over who you fall in love with.
As much as you'd like to think you do have control, you don't.
Nate Wilson is a hardworking, guy in his late twenties. He's hot, non-commital and that's the way he wants it. He's perfectly content with the handful of ladies in his little black book with whom he's comfortable and that give him physical satisfaction. No strings. Besides, he doesn't have time for a committed relationship - or does he? Enter Sunny (also known as Ashley),who is the farthest thing you would expect Nate to fall for. She's damaged goods and by all standards, not for him. She's cursed with a family tragedy and drug addiction. Nate knows better than to fall for a woman like her. She spells trouble. Even her best friend/sponsor tries to warn him. ^^^Enter that first sentence I wrote above.....^^^
This book takes you on a journey which involves compromise, trust, love and letting go. My heart ached more times than not. I felt for Sunny and the horrible things she carried inside her head. She wanted to be good, clean and trust, but she couldn't. Every time she caught herself trying to be happy, something threw her back into her safe world of drugs and alcohol. It was her bandaid to stop the bleeding.
If you've ever known someone with an addiction, then you'll identify. If not, then this book will let you know how it is to love someone who can fall off the edge so quickly, so hard. As much as you want to fix them, you can't do it. They have to WANT to.
This book had me all over the road map with emotions. I was rooting for, yelling at, screaming and yes, I cried. There is one part in the book (sorry, not giving spoilers) but you won't see it coming and it will rip your heart out.
The author did a great job in writing POV's, which there is an art to and she does it with such ease. The characters are well developed and the descriptions are awesome!
I adored Nate and his best friend Daxton. These two guys had a bromance like you wouldn't believe. Friends from childhood, now working together - they had each other's backs at all times. Loved loved loved their friendship!
I loved this book and I recommend it highly!
As much as you'd like to think you do have control, you don't.
Nate Wilson is a hardworking, guy in his late twenties. He's hot, non-commital and that's the way he wants it. He's perfectly content with the handful of ladies in his little black book with whom he's comfortable and that give him physical satisfaction. No strings. Besides, he doesn't have time for a committed relationship - or does he? Enter Sunny (also known as Ashley),who is the farthest thing you would expect Nate to fall for. She's damaged goods and by all standards, not for him. She's cursed with a family tragedy and drug addiction. Nate knows better than to fall for a woman like her. She spells trouble. Even her best friend/sponsor tries to warn him. ^^^Enter that first sentence I wrote above.....^^^
This book takes you on a journey which involves compromise, trust, love and letting go. My heart ached more times than not. I felt for Sunny and the horrible things she carried inside her head. She wanted to be good, clean and trust, but she couldn't. Every time she caught herself trying to be happy, something threw her back into her safe world of drugs and alcohol. It was her bandaid to stop the bleeding.
If you've ever known someone with an addiction, then you'll identify. If not, then this book will let you know how it is to love someone who can fall off the edge so quickly, so hard. As much as you want to fix them, you can't do it. They have to WANT to.
This book had me all over the road map with emotions. I was rooting for, yelling at, screaming and yes, I cried. There is one part in the book (sorry, not giving spoilers) but you won't see it coming and it will rip your heart out.
The author did a great job in writing POV's, which there is an art to and she does it with such ease. The characters are well developed and the descriptions are awesome!
I adored Nate and his best friend Daxton. These two guys had a bromance like you wouldn't believe. Friends from childhood, now working together - they had each other's backs at all times. Loved loved loved their friendship!
I loved this book and I recommend it highly!
February 1, 2015
Sweet N Sassy Book A Holics Rating: 5.0
~~~~~~~~~~Dee's ★★★★★ Review~~~~~~~~~~
Nate lives a contented life, no bills, no worries, a self owned business he loves and a trio of ladies that take care of his needs with no expectations. Then one day in walks a vision of loveliness that captures his heart....until she opens her mouth. He decides she is too toxic to muck up his busy, fulfilling life. So begins a journey for Nate and Sunny that takes them from sunny days to the darkest nightmares.
One of those dark times had my heart aching for Nate when he had been invited to a lawyers office to sign some papers. The scene was so heartbreaking, I couldn't see the words on the page for the flowing tears. Then POW!! an explosive surprise is revealed that took my breath away! Whew! This is a deep, intense story that portrays the devastation of addiction and how it affects all those involved. But only unconditional love, forgiveness, compassion and the desire to live can overcome the disease....one day at a time. I was given this book in exchange for an honest review. Five Stars!
~~~~~~~~~~Patricia's ★★★★★ Review~~~~~~~~~~
This book was really an emotional ride. Sunny aka Ashley and Nate. Nate thinking that he would be a playboy forever different girls for sex. Really with no care in the world other that life is a Party. Then he meets someone who throws his life for a loop not realizing the emotional problems and addictions she has for awhile. Then all the melt down they both go through. Her learning the truth about something from her childhood and him learning that life is not just one big party. Do they finally realize that having an addiction is a life long process and something to fight for or do they let it all slip away?
~~~~~~~~~~Dee's ★★★★★ Review~~~~~~~~~~
Nate lives a contented life, no bills, no worries, a self owned business he loves and a trio of ladies that take care of his needs with no expectations. Then one day in walks a vision of loveliness that captures his heart....until she opens her mouth. He decides she is too toxic to muck up his busy, fulfilling life. So begins a journey for Nate and Sunny that takes them from sunny days to the darkest nightmares.
One of those dark times had my heart aching for Nate when he had been invited to a lawyers office to sign some papers. The scene was so heartbreaking, I couldn't see the words on the page for the flowing tears. Then POW!! an explosive surprise is revealed that took my breath away! Whew! This is a deep, intense story that portrays the devastation of addiction and how it affects all those involved. But only unconditional love, forgiveness, compassion and the desire to live can overcome the disease....one day at a time. I was given this book in exchange for an honest review. Five Stars!
~~~~~~~~~~Patricia's ★★★★★ Review~~~~~~~~~~
This book was really an emotional ride. Sunny aka Ashley and Nate. Nate thinking that he would be a playboy forever different girls for sex. Really with no care in the world other that life is a Party. Then he meets someone who throws his life for a loop not realizing the emotional problems and addictions she has for awhile. Then all the melt down they both go through. Her learning the truth about something from her childhood and him learning that life is not just one big party. Do they finally realize that having an addiction is a life long process and something to fight for or do they let it all slip away?
February 16, 2015
My Review
This is a beautiful and heart-wretching story of the realities of loving an ''imperfect'' person, a person that has been dragged under water, and is struggling to fight their way back to the surface again.
Mullen has created a moral dilemma that is uncomfortable and, unfortunately, a reality for a lot of people in modern society. Addiction is something that isn't shoved in middle class peoples faces very often and when it is...our natural reaction as a society is to shun it. to isolate it. to keep it as far away from us as possible just in case we manage to ''catch'' it and it drags us under too. This is the story of a man that manages to see past the addiction and to see the person that is hiding inside, the scared little girl that is beneith her covers in bed, too terrified to face the monster that's just under the surface.
I'm not going to lie to you here people, this is a gritty and tough read, Of course its immaculately written (If you've ever read anything by Alisa in the past, then you know that that's just a given!) but it captures your soul. It grabs onto your heart and squeezes, you wont feel comfortable, you wont feel warm and fuzzy (very often) but i can guarantee that you will never be able to walk past someone on the street and judge them in the same way.
I implore you to buy this book, buy it and read and be safe in the knowledge that once you've read it...you've already begun to help someone! Alisa is donating all proceeds to the Austin recovery unit.
Thank you Alisa, thank you from me, and thank you for helping that faceless girl find her place in my heart.
5*
This is a beautiful and heart-wretching story of the realities of loving an ''imperfect'' person, a person that has been dragged under water, and is struggling to fight their way back to the surface again.
Mullen has created a moral dilemma that is uncomfortable and, unfortunately, a reality for a lot of people in modern society. Addiction is something that isn't shoved in middle class peoples faces very often and when it is...our natural reaction as a society is to shun it. to isolate it. to keep it as far away from us as possible just in case we manage to ''catch'' it and it drags us under too. This is the story of a man that manages to see past the addiction and to see the person that is hiding inside, the scared little girl that is beneith her covers in bed, too terrified to face the monster that's just under the surface.
I'm not going to lie to you here people, this is a gritty and tough read, Of course its immaculately written (If you've ever read anything by Alisa in the past, then you know that that's just a given!) but it captures your soul. It grabs onto your heart and squeezes, you wont feel comfortable, you wont feel warm and fuzzy (very often) but i can guarantee that you will never be able to walk past someone on the street and judge them in the same way.
I implore you to buy this book, buy it and read and be safe in the knowledge that once you've read it...you've already begun to help someone! Alisa is donating all proceeds to the Austin recovery unit.
Thank you Alisa, thank you from me, and thank you for helping that faceless girl find her place in my heart.
5*
February 17, 2015
Following the Sun
by Alisa Mullen
An Emotional Romantic Roller coaster that Keeps You Guessing until the Very End!
I was offered an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review. I honestly loved this book. It was original, romantic, emotional and suspenseful. A true romance read, not an erotic book, it focuses on the character development and relationship which hook the reader and keeps them until the very end.
Ashley “Sunny” Sonterra is anything but sunny. She has struggled with her demons since her childhood, and as an adult, they continue to plague her. She self medicates her problems, which has created greater problems for her. Underneath it all, she is harboring a dark secret. One that she has never shared, and is planning that she is never going to.
Nathan Wilson has never done serious relationships. He has women that he hooks up with, but never has developed true feelings for any of them. The first woman to ever steal is heart is Sunny, but will her darkness and secrets sabotage their relationship before it ever has a chance.
I really enjoyed this read. The pacing was great. The unanswered questions throughout the book draw you in and keep you focused until the end. This is a must read!
by Alisa Mullen
An Emotional Romantic Roller coaster that Keeps You Guessing until the Very End!
I was offered an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review. I honestly loved this book. It was original, romantic, emotional and suspenseful. A true romance read, not an erotic book, it focuses on the character development and relationship which hook the reader and keeps them until the very end.
Ashley “Sunny” Sonterra is anything but sunny. She has struggled with her demons since her childhood, and as an adult, they continue to plague her. She self medicates her problems, which has created greater problems for her. Underneath it all, she is harboring a dark secret. One that she has never shared, and is planning that she is never going to.
Nathan Wilson has never done serious relationships. He has women that he hooks up with, but never has developed true feelings for any of them. The first woman to ever steal is heart is Sunny, but will her darkness and secrets sabotage their relationship before it ever has a chance.
I really enjoyed this read. The pacing was great. The unanswered questions throughout the book draw you in and keep you focused until the end. This is a must read!
February 10, 2015
Following the sun
Alisa Mullen wowed me with the Following The Sun. This is a book that doesn't sugar coat addictions and what I does the addicted and those around them.
There are many ups and downs with life, but when you add in someone you are falling for that has a troubled past and their way of dealing with is it is getting high. That makes loving them even harder or more real and set in.
Nate was fine with the women he had ready and willing, until he met Sunny. Sunny changed everything, he didn't care about any of the women he had met before all he wanted was to be with her. When her history of drug abuse came out he was more worried about what could happen if he wasn't there to help her and devoted his time to helping her.
As time went on they became close fast, maybe to fast, as there friends were telling them. Would they have the solid ground to support the relationship through the trails that are ahead or are they doomed to fail?
Alisa Mullen wowed me with the Following The Sun. This is a book that doesn't sugar coat addictions and what I does the addicted and those around them.
There are many ups and downs with life, but when you add in someone you are falling for that has a troubled past and their way of dealing with is it is getting high. That makes loving them even harder or more real and set in.
Nate was fine with the women he had ready and willing, until he met Sunny. Sunny changed everything, he didn't care about any of the women he had met before all he wanted was to be with her. When her history of drug abuse came out he was more worried about what could happen if he wasn't there to help her and devoted his time to helping her.
As time went on they became close fast, maybe to fast, as there friends were telling them. Would they have the solid ground to support the relationship through the trails that are ahead or are they doomed to fail?
February 12, 2015
Following the Sun is such an emotional read. The author writes of several issues like suicide and addictions which brings the dark side into the light in a really good way. She frames it within a love story that is quite the roller coaster. I couldn't put it down.
Sunny is battling the shadows of her past and a secret she has never shared. She struggles with thoughts of suicide and self medicates to the point of addiction trying to forget. She frequents Nate's bowling alley and he becomes intrigued by her and wants to know more of her. He has no idea what her was getting into with her.
I give Following the Sun 4 hearts!
Sunny is battling the shadows of her past and a secret she has never shared. She struggles with thoughts of suicide and self medicates to the point of addiction trying to forget. She frequents Nate's bowling alley and he becomes intrigued by her and wants to know more of her. He has no idea what her was getting into with her.
I give Following the Sun 4 hearts!
March 16, 2015
Alisa Mullen is the author of the Best Selling Saga, The Chosen Series and the Best Selling psychological suspense novel, Plastic Confidence. She is also the author of Following the Sun, One Missing Link, and many other short stories and novellas. She sometimes goes by kaycee veil.
Growing up in Down East Maine, Mullen received a BA from Texas A&M University and a MS from Our Lady of Lake University in San Antonio, Texas. When she isn't writing, she enjoys reading, making necklaces, and spending time with her family.
Mullen lives in South Texas with her loving husband and their two children.
Growing up in Down East Maine, Mullen received a BA from Texas A&M University and a MS from Our Lady of Lake University in San Antonio, Texas. When she isn't writing, she enjoys reading, making necklaces, and spending time with her family.
Mullen lives in South Texas with her loving husband and their two children.
February 23, 2015
Nate inherited his family's bowling alley, and he runs it with his best friend, Daxton. He's happy and content with life, not wanting to settle down until he meets Sunny/Ashley. Sunny has a terrible past and she struggles everyday with how to live. Nicky, Sunny's sponsor, starts dating Daxton, but Nicky keeps hitting on Nate. Nate only has one thing on his mind... Ashley. He try's to see the good in her and he wants more. Problems arise when Nate confronts Ashley about her future and what her plan is. Will Nate ever be able to save her, or is it Ashley's turn to save Nate?
February 25, 2015
First off I want to say how proud I am of this author, she is very talented and brilliant! I love her writing style and how her stories make you feel as if you are right there. The emotions I felt while reading this amazing book were all over the place. This is my favorite book by this author. She keeps getting better and better with her stories. I love this story and how the characters were towards each other. Nate and Sunny amazing and their chemistry was spot on. I fell in love with Nate. I don’t want to give the story away, it is a MUST READ book!! Pick up your copy today!
January 27, 2015
This book is powerfully written and raw that it brings out emotions from you. This book touched my heart on a very deep level even though by different situations it made me FEEL!! All I can really say is this book is beautifully written and emotional but I couldn't put it down for one second. You MUST buy this book now as it will touch you to your very soul! Great job as always Alisa Mullen 5 stars well deserved!!!
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July 18, 2015Sunny and Nate
Sunny is this broken woman who feels she is worth nothing. She has had an extremely hard life. Nate is a strong, responsible business owner. Who has had a good life. Can Nate help chase sunny's demons away? Can they find love and happiness? If you want to know then I recommend reading this book.
I loved it. It brought me to tears, it made me laugh, it made me happy, and sad. All in all it was a wonderful book.
Sunny is this broken woman who feels she is worth nothing. She has had an extremely hard life. Nate is a strong, responsible business owner. Who has had a good life. Can Nate help chase sunny's demons away? Can they find love and happiness? If you want to know then I recommend reading this book.
I loved it. It brought me to tears, it made me laugh, it made me happy, and sad. All in all it was a wonderful book.
February 1, 2015
OMG I love this book and I understand both Sunny and Nate's sides but this is not something I talk about. So back to the book :) it was one of the best books I have ever read it made me feel happy, sad, made me laugh and cry. And I want to say Thank you Alisa for writing this and that I happy that you shared it with me and everyone else who has or will read it. :)
February 12, 2015
2.5*
This was a really difficult book for me to get into- I started it quite awhile ago, thought about not finishing it, but finally pushed through to finish it today. I actually ended up skimming most of the the last 30%, just slowing down to read the conclusion...as much as I wasn't captured by this story I wanted to know how it ended.
This was a really difficult book for me to get into- I started it quite awhile ago, thought about not finishing it, but finally pushed through to finish it today. I actually ended up skimming most of the the last 30%, just slowing down to read the conclusion...as much as I wasn't captured by this story I wanted to know how it ended.
February 13, 2015
I loved this story. It had great characters, very believable. I loved Sunny, which surprised me. I imagine it is pretty difficult to write a drug addict into a likable character. (I know drug addicts, and while I love them, they are difficult to like a lot of the time.) I liked that the story is hopeful, but not an unrealistic fairy tale. It's a great piece of writing. Very real.
February 21, 2015
I received a copy of this book for review
I was intrigued by this book from the start. It was avery emotional read for me. The topic of trying to overcome addiction is a difficult one to write and I was impressed with the entire story. Great Read.
I was intrigued by this book from the start. It was avery emotional read for me. The topic of trying to overcome addiction is a difficult one to write and I was impressed with the entire story. Great Read.
February 27, 2015
Just what I expect from Alisa Mullen: A great storyline, a wild emotional ride, and enough twists to keep you cursing, I mean guessing. This story is dark, intense, raw, powerful, heart-wrenching, courageous, and realistic. Mullen does it again and even better. READ THIS BOOK!
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