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Trace #2

Trace - Part Two

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The second part of TRACE, a three-part series from New York Times and USA Today bestselling author, Deborah Bladon.

Vanessa Meyer had finally taken on the task of learning more about her birth mother. The twisted path that brought her to her family's townhouse on the Upper East Side of Manhattan, also brought her face-to-face with the man who she's been spending most of her nights with.

When Vanessa accepts the reality of why Garrett Ryan is connected to her sister, it changes everything for her. She has to decide whether confiding in him is worth the risk of losing him.

As more of her past becomes clear to her, she's forced to confront the woman who took a promised future of love and stability away from her.

Vanessa can't get back what she's lost but she can gain an understanding of a mother's love she'll never know.

Will she risk everything she's built with Garrett for a brief glimpse into her birth mother's mind and heart or will fate step in and force her hand?

Note: This ends In a cliffhanger. Part Three will be released very soon.

143 pages, Kindle Edition

First published February 19, 2015

74 people are currently reading
295 people want to read

About the author

Deborah Bladon

101 books2,337 followers
Deborah Bladon had never read a romance hero she didn't like. Her love for romance novels began when she was old enough to board the bus, library card in hand to check out the newest Harlequin paperbacks. She was a Canadian by heart, and by passport, but you could often spot her in New York City sipping a latte and looking for inspiration for her next story. Manhattan was definitely her second home.

She cherished her family and believed that each day was a gift for writing, for reading, and for loving.

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5 stars
800 (46%)
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613 (35%)
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251 (14%)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 93 reviews
Profile Image for Eda**.
721 reviews435 followers
February 21, 2015

** 2-2,5 STARS **

"Garrett Ryan is starting to feel like home to me, and I can't let that happen."
~ VANESSA



I won't get into detail with this one.

# The sex was boring.

# The lack of healthy communication between the MCs was really annoying.

# Vanessa pissed me off more than twice.

# Poor Garrett was actually great, except that he is the worst dirty talker EVER. Just stop, dude. The voice of your moaning would be WAY sexier than your pathetic attempt of filthy words.

# The medical terms used were RIDICULOUS and I am 100% sure a doctor would NEVER talk about a medical case WITH A NURSE in that childish, unprofessional and casual way.

OVERALL: Disappointing.

To the usual hardcore fans that will surely get mad again and PM me about "how incredible this author's work is" and "what an idiot I am for not seeing the beauty of it all"...



Profile Image for Piia.
48 reviews14 followers
July 21, 2019
I want to make a statement. I put my hand on my heart and swear: never ever will I read a single book by Deborah Bladon until the whole series is published.

She's the cruel queen of cliffhangers!

:-)
Profile Image for Madeline Maureen.
265 reviews7 followers
September 6, 2015
Hoping that someone is a lying liar who lies, because that ending was brutal.
I enjoyed every bit of part two. The pace of the story is on point. Never boring and no real filler that I've been finding in some other stories of being reading. I think that's what's great about Deborah and her format. It's like watching a TV show or a mini series, only you don't get the preview at the end to spoil next weeks episode. The arcs are well thought out and keep you wanting more by the end of each part.
The h & H are both strong and aren't annoying in the least. I'm giving part two a higher rating than part one, because part one's cliffhanger left me with very mixed feelings for the H and it just didn't sit right with me. (Even though I had a list of explanations in my head as to what was really going on)...I'm very pleased at how things turned out and that I can still love me some Garrett Ryan.

Seriously though...the cliffhanger for part two, although not as much of a slap in the face as part one for the those who have read all of Deborah Bladon's books, still left quite a sting. I'll say it again...that person is a lying liar who lies and I refuse to believe that last paragraph was the truth.

Looking forward to part three!
Profile Image for AngelinaT.
634 reviews24 followers
February 22, 2015
Part two of this series couldn't come fast enough for me. When I saw its release I had to stop all else to read it! It didn't disappoint. I have become a huge fan of Deborah Bladon's and each story I read gets better and better. Part one of Trace ended in a jaw-dropping cliff hanger and part two resolved that nicely. Garrett is an absolute dream and my heart breaks for what Vanessa is going through. This story is original and so intense and super sexy. Can't wait for the conclusion!!!
Profile Image for Dina.
1,221 reviews50 followers
February 26, 2015
5 stars!!

WOW! WOW! WOOOOOOWWWWW!!!

That was one epic installment in this series!

Oh my God!

If the next book isn't out soon, I don't know what I'm gonna do!

*biting nails and waiting*
Profile Image for Vfc.
1,543 reviews
December 18, 2019
Part 2 of 3

Vanessa’s visit from book one reveals her birth mother as Francesca Tomlin and she’s listed as missing. Upon arriving at the residence, she discovers she’s too late, she has recently expired and her sister Connie recognising her bracelet as the one she was wearing when she went missing accuses her avarice trying to collect on her mother’s estate.

“Leif rubs both sides of his head with his index fingers. "You don't know what you're talking about. A month ago you thought the woman who worked at the bakery was Charlotte. Last year it was that woman who you passed in Central Park. You can't keep doing this to yourself.”

Garrett is also there as a close family friend and as a probate solicitor. He assumes Vanessa is there to see him. (No rational human being tracks down another at a client’s house). This was an unlikely scenario.

“Connie. Vanessa is my friend. She came here to see me. Give me five minutes with her and I'll be back in the study and we can talk about this."
"What do you need to talk to her about? Just do it now. Say what you need to say to her in front of me”.

Replaying Connie’s cruelty to Zoe, it is clear her sister's cruel rejection is about money.

She agreed to have dinner with Garrett and planned to share that she’s adopted although technically she’s a missing person.
“He doesn’t strike me as the type of man who dates a woman for more than a few weeks. Maybe by the time this thing between us finds its end, I'll have a firmer grasp on whether I'll share with anyone that I'm Charlotte Tomlin.”

We start learning based on information available that Vanessa is assuming her mother Rowena abducted her.

This is a Federal crime and she can be implicated as an accessory after the fact if it goes unreported.

Visiting Garrett she runs into Connie who is confrontational and recognises that she lacks a basic sense of compassion. (This woman does not have a moral compass).

“You heard about this? I was bringing it up to Garrett's office for safe keeping."
"I don't believe you. Why would you have that envelope?"
"It was in mother's desk. She locked it away in a drawer." She holds it in front of her. "Leif found it when he was cleaning it out. He insisted I bring it to Garrett."
"Why the hell would I write a letter to you? I wish you had stayed missing."
"Give it to me." I hold out my hands. "I have to go. I want you to give it to me."
"You have to jump over a bunch of legal hurdles before Garrett will give it to you."
"You can give it to me. You know that I'm Charlotte." I'm almost sobbing. I need to go to the hospital but I can't tear myself away from this spot.
"I don't know if I should."
“I want to have it." I reach towards her.
"If I give you the letter, will you stay away from us?"
"What?" I try to grab hold of the envelope but she's too quick. She hides it behind her back. "Give it to me."
"You're going to be twenty-five on the 26th of January. I'll inherit everything the day after that."
"My birthday is the 4th of February," I push back. "I won't be twenty-five until then."
"No, Charlotte." She takes a step closer to me. "You were born on the 26th of January."
I feel my bottom lip tremble. Even my birth date has been a lie. "I promise. Please. I'll stay away forever. You can have everything. I just want the letter."
"I'll make your life a living hell if you try and claim a dime." She pushes on my shoulder. "I will make you regret it."
"Give me the letter," I spit out. "Just give it to me."
"Here." She laughs as she tosses the envelope into the air between us.”
Connie is evil personified.

Garrett intercepts their exchange and is baffled that Connie is referring to her as Charlotte.

Reading the contents of the letter “My mother gave me away that day. She dressed me in a pretty dress when I was a baby, put her rope bracelet on my arm and handed me to a stranger in the park because she didn't want me anymore. She just didn't want me anymore.”

Vanessa is an emotional coward, with numerous opportunities to confess her identity to Garrett, yet, Connie enjoys the privilege.

This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Mia (Mia's Book Blog).
137 reviews64 followers
March 9, 2015
5 stars as always

This is truly heartbreaking. not because of the story, it's because no person should go through something like that. feeling lost is not okay, it's not good. just think of how many babies gets taken away everyday. Vanessa was strong and stood up for herself, when it was tough she had her friends, most people don't have that. Throughout the whole series Vanessa was strong, and that's what I like the most about her. Some people would say she was annoying and everything, but really put yourself in her shoes, and you will see how hard life can be when suddently everyhting you planned and wanted was turned upside down, knowing that nothing will be the same as always.
Even though Vanessa distanced herself from Garrett . He was always there for her. Everything she felt for Garrett just grew strong and strong in the time she was away from him. EVERYTHING THAT HAPPENS, HAPPENS FOR A REASON.


"Garrett Ryan is starting to feel like home to me, and I can't let that happen."
~ Vanessa Meyer

I'm leaving because I'm a coward. I'm running away because I'm falling for this beautiful man who makes me feel things I've never felt before. I have secrets that I've waited too long to tell him...

SEX: So everyone wanted to see exquisite sex, but not everything is about SEX .What in this story is important is the love story, and a story about a person who longes for her biological family.

SONG TO LISTEN WITH THE BOOK: Christina Perri - Arms
CLIFFHANGER: We all know that Deborah is the master of cliffhangers, so don't expect nothing less. I think that cliffhangers are good, because they keep you there wanting to read the next part.
OVERALL: The book was amazing, in my opinion
Profile Image for  Linathebookaddict  .
1,565 reviews407 followers
February 21, 2015
Last book ended in a terrible cliffhanger and I have to admitt that what I thought that was going on was actually more exciting than what was actually going on ...Does that make sense???
Vanessa has recently discovered the truth about her birth mother and her adopted mother. She carries on with her research and enlists the help of a lawyer.
Her relationship with Garrett progresses, but she is keeping secrets from him.
Having to finally tell him some parts of her story, he advises that she gets an experienced lawyer in criminal law.
After that, things go downhill. More secrets are revealed and what she thought was the truth is snatched away from underneath her feet. It seems that everything she thought she knew is reversed and twisted. What will she do now? And what role does Garrett play in all this?
This second book also ends with a cliffhanger...I am curious to know what happens next.
I really thought that this premise was different and I loved the twist that the author added, but I have to admitt that it lacked some excitement. The tempo wasn't as strong as the author's previous work and I was a little disappointed...Still, Deborah Bladon has a way with words.
I would have loved if this was put together in a standalone instead of small seperate books though...

3.5 Stars from me.
Profile Image for Funzee Shu.
932 reviews107 followers
March 6, 2015

I'm leaving because I'm a coward. I'm running away because I'm falling for this beautiful man who makes me feel things I've never felt before. I have secrets that I've waited too long to tell him...


Well ?
After that brutal ending on first book, I must admit, I really hv lil big expectations that the 2nd book will be...something....

But...

description

It ended just so-so for me...

Vanessa kinda annoyed me at some part, while Garrett...sigh...he only want what the best for Van.

And Connie...
Can I SLAP that bitch ?
Cuz I hv twitching palm when she's around...
Lol....

Well, time for round 3, eh ?
Hope it'll be something at the finals installment....
47 reviews
February 21, 2015
never dissappointed

The cliffhangers will drive you crazy and I always tell myself I am going to wait until all of the books are out before I read them, but I can't do it. Never ever. I enjoy Deborah's story so much. Its like being on a diet and you tell yourself your gonna have just two bites of ice cream and the next thing you know its a whole bowl.
She writes such likable characters like Vanessa. And the guys, oh my! Garrett is ...I don't know. Just know you will be jealous of Vanessa. Makes you hope there is really is a Garrett Ryan out there somewhere in the real world. Can wait for 3.
Profile Image for Lauri Tribbey.
359 reviews1 follower
March 2, 2015
Shocking revaluation!

Part one of Trace introduced the reader to Vanessa. Vanessa is a young RN struggling to deal with her responsibilities as a nurse, and her Mother's Alzheimer's. Vanessa has always known she was adopted. While trying to figure out her Mother's wishes, she discovers that she in fact not adopted, but was taken. Trace two takes Vanessa down a path of discovery she was not expecting. Garrett the hot shot lawyer who falls for Vanessa, offers to help her in her quest for answers, is caught in the middle of Vanessa's past, and her possible future.
Profile Image for Katty Suero.
236 reviews3 followers
March 1, 2015
I have to say that staying away from this book was one of the hardest things I have had to do. I love all of Deborah Bladon's books and honestly I wanted to wait for part three before I have to deal with another cliffhanger like in book 1. I was right in doing so because after reading this waiting for book three would have been a killer. I absolutely love this series and I am dying to read book three to see what this amazing writer does next. she has absolutely become one of my favorite authors. This series is a definite read. .
Profile Image for Chianti Summers.
Author 11 books42 followers
February 24, 2015
Garrett and Vanessa's story continues. Garrett the ever smooth lawyer and Vanessa the woman trying to figure out the answer to the question why? Garrett wants to support Vanessa as much as she will let him. Vanessa wants to do what is right. The question is will there be a mountain to climb to get to the real reason? What will Garrett do when he finds out that Vanessa is really Charlotte. Waiting for Trace part 3 to find out.
Profile Image for Krystel Theodore-Branker.
559 reviews18 followers
February 25, 2015
Five brilliant stars for Deborah and Trace part 2. OMG....this story just keeps getting more fascinating with each revelation. As the plot thickens more secrets are unveiled and all am thinking about is where will this lead Garrett and Vanessa's relationship ?? This series is a must read if you are a Deborah Bladon fan and if not it's a great start to her unforgettable writing style that captivates you and will make you an instant fan!
Profile Image for Karen Soto.
10 reviews1 follower
February 27, 2015
Great Story!!!!!

This series is so good. I haven't read a book like this before. It was very gripping. I feel so sorry for Vanessa. Things are heartbreaking for her. Garrett is so loving, attentive and gorgeous. He cares so much for her. I really can't wait to see how this story goes in the third book. Knowing Deborah Bladons books, it will be fantastic. You cannot loose when you buy her books!!!!
Profile Image for Bibliophile Wonderland Reviews.
416 reviews13 followers
February 27, 2015
Ahhhh what a way to end the book, damn you cliffy!
Overall I'm glad that you know who isn't you know what lol.
Sorry don't want to ruin it for anyone. It's a page turner.
I will be eagerly waiting for Part Three, ahh Feb 28 seem so far away.
Give it to me now! I need to know what happens next.
Oh and yeah Connie is a bitch! lol
Profile Image for Eve Davis james.
25 reviews2 followers
February 22, 2015
much better than the first...

This book has much more of a story than the first of the series. It brings you deeper into who Vanessa is as a person and you can see why so many love. Her longing to have a real family is palpable. Please get the next book out fast. I have no idea how this story is going to be wrapped up in only one more book.
25 reviews
February 23, 2015
bold part 2

As

As Vanessa discovers more details of her mothers choices 25 years ago, these actions have complicated her life in ways she can't imagine. Her relationship with Garrett is tenuous. striving to find the answers she needs creates still more complications. Can' wait for part 3
Profile Image for Carol.
3,569 reviews3 followers
February 21, 2015
Trace part 2

Oh my gosh, this story is breaking my heart, how can anyone be so cruel that other daughter, is so mean, is all I can say, heartless, I cannot wait till the 27th, please hurry
Profile Image for Lisa Smith.
1,052 reviews1 follower
February 21, 2015
wow!

I'm not sure where to start, but Something not right with Connie, not believing anything from her. Poor Vanessa, it sucks to be her right now...Garrett now really.... I'm just perplexed, bring on book 3 pleased.
Profile Image for Linda.
85 reviews
February 24, 2015
Just when you think you know how the story will go, the epic plot twist occurs. Book 2 is just as fabulous at leaving you begging for more. I'm addicted to the characters and can't wait to get the answers to the many questions I have regarding this couple.
Profile Image for Laurie.
24 reviews1 follower
February 26, 2015
Excellent story

Very well written, love the cliffhanger's. I can't wait till the next story is released. I love all of Debt Bladon's stories she has never failed to write a wonderful story.
Profile Image for Emily.
11 reviews
March 3, 2015
Great series.

After being unsure to buy the first part of this series I wasn't disappointed by the first or this part. The story thickens as does Vanessa and Garret's love story. I couldn't put it down.
Profile Image for Brittany.
216 reviews
March 31, 2015
another cliff hanger

Man, I think Vanessa should have told Garret way before he found out. I don't like how she pulled away so much in this book. But the writing was good, and I am still really intrigued to read the third one.
Profile Image for Anne.
586 reviews11 followers
February 22, 2015
As always, I am totally sucked into another Deborah Bladon serial. Vanessa might not be my favorite heroine of the group, but I am loving Garret.
Profile Image for Michele.
19 reviews
February 23, 2015
Captivating, sensual and heartbreaking

Deborah has done it again! You will not be disappointed. You are given an "NO WAY?" moment and I cannot wait until the next book.
Profile Image for Kristine Cluney.
157 reviews
February 23, 2015
Wow this story is amazing

I can't believe this story. It is so edge is your seat fantastic part 3 better hurry up cause I can't wait till the end of the story it gipping
126 reviews
April 1, 2019
The story darkens

This is the second book, actually Part 2 of a 3 part series! Of course this is the middle of the story, and a few details are made known. But, once again it is a clever tease to make one have to move on to Part 3. Such a sad tale... for all involved! But like all excellent books, part 3 will answer all questions... and a few more!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 93 reviews

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