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Meant To Be Married
If only they had married, all those years ago...
But their warring families did everything in their power to keep Elias and Sarah apart -- short of destroying their love for each other. And soon enough the Santiagos and the Greenwoods succeeded in tearing the young beauty from her darkly handsome -- and forbidden -- groom-to-be...
Now Sarah was back in town, but she was unprepared to see the bitterness in Elias's eyes -- or the desire that still simmered there. If only for a moment they could forget the past, they could have it all -- the love, the family, the future they once dreamed of....
But their warring families did everything in their power to keep Elias and Sarah apart -- short of destroying their love for each other. And soon enough the Santiagos and the Greenwoods succeeded in tearing the young beauty from her darkly handsome -- and forbidden -- groom-to-be...
Now Sarah was back in town, but she was unprepared to see the bitterness in Elias's eyes -- or the desire that still simmered there. If only for a moment they could forget the past, they could have it all -- the love, the family, the future they once dreamed of....
248 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published January 1, 1998
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154 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
July 27, 2021
I like Ruth Wind's writing. It flows easily, is usually deeply emotional, even soul stirring.
The story of young, star-crossed lovers separated cruelly by feuding families is unquestionably reminiscent of Romeo-Juliet. But it also has an historical angle with similar lovers from a previous generation suffering a much worse fate at the hands of family. That adds a certain depth and also a mild pnr angle to the story.
The story of young, star-crossed lovers separated cruelly by feuding families is unquestionably reminiscent of Romeo-Juliet. But it also has an historical angle with similar lovers from a previous generation suffering a much worse fate at the hands of family. That adds a certain depth and also a mild pnr angle to the story.
May 10, 2010
Reviewed for THC Reviews
Meant to Be Married is a Romeo & Juliet style story of forbidden love. Instead of the Montagues and the Capulets, we have the Santiagos and the Greenwoods who have been embroiled in a bitter, blood feud for 150 years which has led to death and shattered lives on both sides for many generations. Teenage lovers Elias Santiago and Sarah Greenwood were caught in the middle over a decade ago, when her father cruelly betrayed them both, causing even more hatred directed at the Greenwoods from Elias' family. Sadly, the whole feud was steeped in racism and lies. It really distresses me to think about how some parents can pass down hatred from one generation to the next until it becomes second nature and no one even considers why they are still hating, they just do. In some ways it was difficult to read about, because it's simply so heartbreaking. At the same time though, it is also part of what made the book so wonderful and gave it such depth. In the end, it took Sarah's courage and determination to expose the truth of the past in hopes of affecting change for everyone's future. It was also a story of compromise, both sides meeting halfway and admitting wrongs done. The ending was a decidedly happy one, but I liked that there were no magical transformations or pat answers. Both Sarah and Elias had to admit that it would be a long and difficult road ahead to a full reconciliation between the families, if that ever happened, but they were able to make enough inroads to live peacefully for the rest of their lives. It was all a beautiful story of the power of love and forgiveness winning out over hatred and vengeance.
Elias and Sarah were two amazing characters who had lost so much in their lives, but had also gained things that they might not have if things had gone the way they had planned twelve years earlier. I like that when they were teenagers, they tried to do the mature and right thing even though they weren't rewarded for it. In many ways, they behaved far better and in a more grown up way than the adults in their lives. Eli grew into a resolute young entrepreneur who made a name and a fortune for his family through a tea business that he had envisioned as a teenager. However, when he lost Sarah, he became an embittered shell of his former self, living to seek revenge against Sarah and her family. When Sarah came back to town, he could think of nothing else, but when he was in her presence, he found, to his dismay, that his emotions went much deeper. Each time he was with her, a little of his anger began to fade until he started to understand how badly she had suffered too. Sarah also enjoyed success as a famous fashion photographer who had traveled around the world, but never found anyplace that felt like home. Feeling drained and empty, she returns to Taos, New Mexico to help her mother care for her ailing father and hopefully find restoration. She has learned how to shut away the past and keep her emotions bottled up, and is terribly frightened to discover that in order to be whole again, she must face the very things that scare her the most, one of which is her feelings for Elias. Sarah and Elias were a fabulous hero and heroine whose love had never died and who were completely realistic and genuine.
Meant to Be Married is a short novel of less than 250 pages, but it packs a huge emotional punch. It is loaded with themes that many romance readers, including myself, love: a controversial inter-racial relationship, a tempestuous but tender reunion romance, forbidden love which Ruth Wind (aka Barbara Samuel/O'Neal) always writes so very well, a thirst for revenge, and all this while exhibiting a thoughtful complexity that left me in awe and pondering it all very deeply. The story grabbed me right from the prologue and never let go, leaving me with tears welling in my eyes on more than one occasion. The emotional tension between Eli and Sarah as they try to work through their anger and figure out what they still mean to each other is stunning, sometimes so thick it could be cut with a knife. The sexual tension is absolutely exquisite with the author creating an electrifying connection with the simplest of things such as a smoldering look or the barest of touches. The love scenes themselves were not particularly detailed, but they certainly didn't lack for fiery passion while also being sweet and loving. Ruth Wind is extremely talented at painting vivid, beautiful word pictures to describe her settings and her character's emotions, making it very easy to tell that she is an artist herself. She just makes me want to immerse myself in her richly sumptuous prose. Meant to Be Married won a Rita award in 1999, and it's very easy to see why. This little hidden gem is long out of print, but in my opinion, is without a doubt, worth the search for a used copy. Meant to Be Married is the first and from what I can tell, the only other book in Ruth Wind's Men of the Land multi-line series. The second was a Silhouette Intimate Moments titled, Rio Grande Wedding. There are no character or plot connections between the two books, but they both feature rugged Hispanic heroes who love the land and a forbidden inter-racial romance.
Meant to Be Married is a Romeo & Juliet style story of forbidden love. Instead of the Montagues and the Capulets, we have the Santiagos and the Greenwoods who have been embroiled in a bitter, blood feud for 150 years which has led to death and shattered lives on both sides for many generations. Teenage lovers Elias Santiago and Sarah Greenwood were caught in the middle over a decade ago, when her father cruelly betrayed them both, causing even more hatred directed at the Greenwoods from Elias' family. Sadly, the whole feud was steeped in racism and lies. It really distresses me to think about how some parents can pass down hatred from one generation to the next until it becomes second nature and no one even considers why they are still hating, they just do. In some ways it was difficult to read about, because it's simply so heartbreaking. At the same time though, it is also part of what made the book so wonderful and gave it such depth. In the end, it took Sarah's courage and determination to expose the truth of the past in hopes of affecting change for everyone's future. It was also a story of compromise, both sides meeting halfway and admitting wrongs done. The ending was a decidedly happy one, but I liked that there were no magical transformations or pat answers. Both Sarah and Elias had to admit that it would be a long and difficult road ahead to a full reconciliation between the families, if that ever happened, but they were able to make enough inroads to live peacefully for the rest of their lives. It was all a beautiful story of the power of love and forgiveness winning out over hatred and vengeance.
Elias and Sarah were two amazing characters who had lost so much in their lives, but had also gained things that they might not have if things had gone the way they had planned twelve years earlier. I like that when they were teenagers, they tried to do the mature and right thing even though they weren't rewarded for it. In many ways, they behaved far better and in a more grown up way than the adults in their lives. Eli grew into a resolute young entrepreneur who made a name and a fortune for his family through a tea business that he had envisioned as a teenager. However, when he lost Sarah, he became an embittered shell of his former self, living to seek revenge against Sarah and her family. When Sarah came back to town, he could think of nothing else, but when he was in her presence, he found, to his dismay, that his emotions went much deeper. Each time he was with her, a little of his anger began to fade until he started to understand how badly she had suffered too. Sarah also enjoyed success as a famous fashion photographer who had traveled around the world, but never found anyplace that felt like home. Feeling drained and empty, she returns to Taos, New Mexico to help her mother care for her ailing father and hopefully find restoration. She has learned how to shut away the past and keep her emotions bottled up, and is terribly frightened to discover that in order to be whole again, she must face the very things that scare her the most, one of which is her feelings for Elias. Sarah and Elias were a fabulous hero and heroine whose love had never died and who were completely realistic and genuine.
Meant to Be Married is a short novel of less than 250 pages, but it packs a huge emotional punch. It is loaded with themes that many romance readers, including myself, love: a controversial inter-racial relationship, a tempestuous but tender reunion romance, forbidden love which Ruth Wind (aka Barbara Samuel/O'Neal) always writes so very well, a thirst for revenge, and all this while exhibiting a thoughtful complexity that left me in awe and pondering it all very deeply. The story grabbed me right from the prologue and never let go, leaving me with tears welling in my eyes on more than one occasion. The emotional tension between Eli and Sarah as they try to work through their anger and figure out what they still mean to each other is stunning, sometimes so thick it could be cut with a knife. The sexual tension is absolutely exquisite with the author creating an electrifying connection with the simplest of things such as a smoldering look or the barest of touches. The love scenes themselves were not particularly detailed, but they certainly didn't lack for fiery passion while also being sweet and loving. Ruth Wind is extremely talented at painting vivid, beautiful word pictures to describe her settings and her character's emotions, making it very easy to tell that she is an artist herself. She just makes me want to immerse myself in her richly sumptuous prose. Meant to Be Married won a Rita award in 1999, and it's very easy to see why. This little hidden gem is long out of print, but in my opinion, is without a doubt, worth the search for a used copy. Meant to Be Married is the first and from what I can tell, the only other book in Ruth Wind's Men of the Land multi-line series. The second was a Silhouette Intimate Moments titled, Rio Grande Wedding. There are no character or plot connections between the two books, but they both feature rugged Hispanic heroes who love the land and a forbidden inter-racial romance.
May 26, 2011
Meant to be Married is a story about healing, second-chances and family loyalty, it is not an easy read, it is about letting go off the past and to look beyond the hurt.
Eli and Sarah were young lovers, who adored each other and sneaked behind their family's back for 3 years since they knew they would never be accepted, their families were sworn enemies in a feud that dated back more than hundred years, but they didn't care, they were young and in love. They eloped to get married when Sarah got pregnant, but didn't go through it as they wanted their families to accept them too. But betrayal tore them apart, Eli went to jail and by the time he was out Sarah was gone to a home for un-wed mothers where their daughter was given up for adoption.
12 years have gone by and that is how long Sarah has been gone. She has a made a successful life for herself as a photographer but she is getting dis-enchanted and returns home as her father is ill. Over the years Sarah has a built a relationship with her parents based on her terms, where the past is a no-go. She hasn't forgiven her parents because she can't forgive herself. She hides behind her camera and it is Eli and his coming back into her life that force her to confront the issue of her baby and her art.
Eli has spent his time re-building his family fortunes and hating Sarah's father for what he took from him. He lives for revenge. Both of them can't stay away from each other despite their families, they talk, they hurt each other but still they love each other.
Seeing both of them confront their past, their families, their feelings for each other was painful. I loved seeing Sarah grow and finally decide that she would no longer be the bone between two men and the moment when she lets go of her grief was painful.
Eli and Sarah were young lovers, who adored each other and sneaked behind their family's back for 3 years since they knew they would never be accepted, their families were sworn enemies in a feud that dated back more than hundred years, but they didn't care, they were young and in love. They eloped to get married when Sarah got pregnant, but didn't go through it as they wanted their families to accept them too. But betrayal tore them apart, Eli went to jail and by the time he was out Sarah was gone to a home for un-wed mothers where their daughter was given up for adoption.
12 years have gone by and that is how long Sarah has been gone. She has a made a successful life for herself as a photographer but she is getting dis-enchanted and returns home as her father is ill. Over the years Sarah has a built a relationship with her parents based on her terms, where the past is a no-go. She hasn't forgiven her parents because she can't forgive herself. She hides behind her camera and it is Eli and his coming back into her life that force her to confront the issue of her baby and her art.
Eli has spent his time re-building his family fortunes and hating Sarah's father for what he took from him. He lives for revenge. Both of them can't stay away from each other despite their families, they talk, they hurt each other but still they love each other.
Seeing both of them confront their past, their families, their feelings for each other was painful. I loved seeing Sarah grow and finally decide that she would no longer be the bone between two men and the moment when she lets go of her grief was painful.
September 16, 2017
Heroine gave up her baby for adoption. Avoid!
December 6, 2021
Meant To Be Married by Ruth Wind (aka Barbara Samuels) is a powerful romance that brought tears to my eyes. This second-chance-at-love story is underscored by superb characterization and a sensitive writer’s hand.
Meant To Be Married begins a decade in the past when Elias Santiago and Sarah Greenwood defied their families to become lovers. The teenaged Romeo and Juliet were precisely that: two youths from feuding clans who fell in love with one another and had to keep their relationship secret. For over a century, Santiago and Greenwood blood has been shed via lynchings, murders, and suicides. Legend says the feud began when a Santiago male violated a Greenwood female. The Greenwoods hanged Santiago, and in turn, the Greenwood woman killed herself. Was it due to shame, or could it have been heartbreak?
Whatever the reason, the enmity between the families has grown stronger over time.
The high school sweethearts are on their way out of state to elope. Then a change of heart makes them turn back to contact their parents. Sarah’s father is a police officer, and to their dismay, they are met on the road with sirens and flashing red and blue lights.
Elias, who is a couple of years older than Sarah, is taken away and arrested. Sarah is whisked off to a home for pregnant girls. There she languishes for months, with no word from Elias. But how can he contact her when he’s trapped in jail for months before being released and has no idea where Sarah is? After she gives birth, Sarah’s parents put the baby up for a closed adoption.
Sarah goes to New York to become an acclaimed photographer, snapping pics of models and celebrities. Elias stays behind in their hometown of Taos, New Mexico, and opens a thriving tea business. Time and distance separate them, but they have a bond that will unite them.
After Sarah’s father has a heart attack, she receives a call from her mother, begging her to return home. Through the years, Sarah has visited her parents, but never for more than a day at a time. However, it’s time to put old ghosts to rest. Sarah returns to Taos. It’s no surprise when she sees Elias again, and their attraction is as vibrant as it was in the past. Even more so in the present time.
Years ago, there had been many obstacles in their way. They were too young. Their families were involved in a generations-long feud. The Greenwoods were upper class, and the Santiagos, although upwardly mobile, weren’t quite there at the time. The Greenwoods are Anglo-European, the Santiagos are Hispanic from a mix of Spanish and Amerindian heritage.
Now, some circumstances have changed, while some things remain as they always have. But fate will play a guiding hand, forcing Elias and Sarah to cross paths. Elias has a teenaged niece with aspirations of being a model. He reaches out to Sarah and pays her to photograph the girl and help her create a portfolio. As the two meet up again and again, they cannot deny their feelings for one another. How can they mend the wounds of the past when the wounds are still raw and gaping open?
Ruth Wind’s beautiful prose had me immersed in the semi-tragic love story. There were points when the suffering was overwhelming. She had me hissing at the contemptuous attitudes of the senior generations. I was enthusiastically rooting for Elias and Sarah to make it as a forever couple.
The ending of Meant to Be Married was a bittersweet conclusion. For although Elias and Sarah are finally reunited, theirs is an incomplete joining. A vital piece is missing and their happy ever after is not a perfect one.
And then the epilogue comes along and gives them a ray of hope. That was a real punch in the gut moment, and I truly felt Elias and Sarah’s joy and pain.
This book was a beautifully written romance. Meant to Be Married is so close to perfection. It’s a keeper, although, at times, the anguish was too much to bear. I get misty-eyed simply thinking about Elias and Sarah’s torment. Regardless of what they endured, the power of love proves paramount. Even if the ending isn’t wrapped up in a pretty ribbon, the pair have found each other again. They will finally get married, as was meant to be.
5 stars
Meant To Be Married begins a decade in the past when Elias Santiago and Sarah Greenwood defied their families to become lovers. The teenaged Romeo and Juliet were precisely that: two youths from feuding clans who fell in love with one another and had to keep their relationship secret. For over a century, Santiago and Greenwood blood has been shed via lynchings, murders, and suicides. Legend says the feud began when a Santiago male violated a Greenwood female. The Greenwoods hanged Santiago, and in turn, the Greenwood woman killed herself. Was it due to shame, or could it have been heartbreak?
Whatever the reason, the enmity between the families has grown stronger over time.
The high school sweethearts are on their way out of state to elope. Then a change of heart makes them turn back to contact their parents. Sarah’s father is a police officer, and to their dismay, they are met on the road with sirens and flashing red and blue lights.
Elias, who is a couple of years older than Sarah, is taken away and arrested. Sarah is whisked off to a home for pregnant girls. There she languishes for months, with no word from Elias. But how can he contact her when he’s trapped in jail for months before being released and has no idea where Sarah is? After she gives birth, Sarah’s parents put the baby up for a closed adoption.
Sarah goes to New York to become an acclaimed photographer, snapping pics of models and celebrities. Elias stays behind in their hometown of Taos, New Mexico, and opens a thriving tea business. Time and distance separate them, but they have a bond that will unite them.
After Sarah’s father has a heart attack, she receives a call from her mother, begging her to return home. Through the years, Sarah has visited her parents, but never for more than a day at a time. However, it’s time to put old ghosts to rest. Sarah returns to Taos. It’s no surprise when she sees Elias again, and their attraction is as vibrant as it was in the past. Even more so in the present time.
Years ago, there had been many obstacles in their way. They were too young. Their families were involved in a generations-long feud. The Greenwoods were upper class, and the Santiagos, although upwardly mobile, weren’t quite there at the time. The Greenwoods are Anglo-European, the Santiagos are Hispanic from a mix of Spanish and Amerindian heritage.
Now, some circumstances have changed, while some things remain as they always have. But fate will play a guiding hand, forcing Elias and Sarah to cross paths. Elias has a teenaged niece with aspirations of being a model. He reaches out to Sarah and pays her to photograph the girl and help her create a portfolio. As the two meet up again and again, they cannot deny their feelings for one another. How can they mend the wounds of the past when the wounds are still raw and gaping open?
Ruth Wind’s beautiful prose had me immersed in the semi-tragic love story. There were points when the suffering was overwhelming. She had me hissing at the contemptuous attitudes of the senior generations. I was enthusiastically rooting for Elias and Sarah to make it as a forever couple.
The ending of Meant to Be Married was a bittersweet conclusion. For although Elias and Sarah are finally reunited, theirs is an incomplete joining. A vital piece is missing and their happy ever after is not a perfect one.
And then the epilogue comes along and gives them a ray of hope. That was a real punch in the gut moment, and I truly felt Elias and Sarah’s joy and pain.
This book was a beautifully written romance. Meant to Be Married is so close to perfection. It’s a keeper, although, at times, the anguish was too much to bear. I get misty-eyed simply thinking about Elias and Sarah’s torment. Regardless of what they endured, the power of love proves paramount. Even if the ending isn’t wrapped up in a pretty ribbon, the pair have found each other again. They will finally get married, as was meant to be.
5 stars
October 20, 2013
Review: Meant to be Married by Ruth Wind
Rating = 3.75/5
Caliber SEAL: GOOD READ
Ruth Wind is an author who takes you deep into the heart of any book she writes.
Review goes live at 00:00 hours MVT, October 21, 2013!
Rating = 3.75/5
Caliber SEAL: GOOD READ
Ruth Wind is an author who takes you deep into the heart of any book she writes.
Review goes live at 00:00 hours MVT, October 21, 2013!
May 1, 2022
La historia de amor entre Elías y Sarah acumula tópicos: 1) «amantes desgraciados», cuyo cruel destino es un amor imposible debido al enfrentamiento secular de sus familias; 2) «segunda oportunidad en el amor», porque se reencuentran de adultos y siguen atrayéndose; 3) «intercultural», pues Elías Santiago viene de familia novohispana que luego fue mejicana y acabó siendo estadounidense (ellos siguieron siempre en el mismo sitio, fueron las fronteras las que cambiaron). Wind monta con esto una historia preciosa de dos personas que no son perfectas, que cometieron y cometen errores, que tienen que saber perdonar las crueldades ajenas y, sobre todo, deben empezar perdonándose a sí mismos por las pérdidas del pasado.
Pues eso, que Ruth Wind / Barbara Samuel me parece una escritora estupenda que sabe dotar de autenticidad sus novelas genéricas.
Crítica más extensa, en mi blog.
Pues eso, que Ruth Wind / Barbara Samuel me parece una escritora estupenda que sabe dotar de autenticidad sus novelas genéricas.
Crítica más extensa, en mi blog.
November 5, 2019
1 1/2 stars. A lot of repetition going on. But I liked the big project in the end. Not much resolution in the end in my opinion.
May 20, 2024
A wonderful story of belongings, of crossed lovers, of love, of prejudice and wrongness, of child loss, of heartbreak recovery, of courage and fighting for what's right.
I cried.
I cried.
September 25, 2016
Sarah Greenwood is celebrating her thirtieth birthday in London when she decides she wants to go home. After twelve years she’s aching to go back to Tao, New Mexico. She’s a world-renowned, wealthy photographer, but she ran away from home after a tragic event. She needs to make peace with her father and heal the rift with her parents. She isn’t prepared to see her first love or relive how they were torn apart.
Elias de Jesus Salimento Santiago wants revenge for what her family did to him. Their families have been feuding for more than a century and they are engaged in a mutual hatred that still burns hot. As CEO of Santiago Teas, he’s become a successful, wealthy man and turned around his family’s fortunes.
But Eli and Sarah begin to realize they didn’t know the whole story of what happened twelve years ago. As they learn the truth, they get to know each other as adults and realize they still have feelings for each other. But can they overcome the past, the feud, and their families? Sarah gives an ultimatum to her father and Eli, because they can’t find happiness if they won’t change.
Be prepared to cry when you read this! It packs an emotional wallop and takes your breath away at times. This author paints such a vivid picture of the settings and the characters, you’re transported to the mountains of New Mexico. The colors, the scents, the heat... prepare to be swept away. LOVED IT.
Elias de Jesus Salimento Santiago wants revenge for what her family did to him. Their families have been feuding for more than a century and they are engaged in a mutual hatred that still burns hot. As CEO of Santiago Teas, he’s become a successful, wealthy man and turned around his family’s fortunes.
But Eli and Sarah begin to realize they didn’t know the whole story of what happened twelve years ago. As they learn the truth, they get to know each other as adults and realize they still have feelings for each other. But can they overcome the past, the feud, and their families? Sarah gives an ultimatum to her father and Eli, because they can’t find happiness if they won’t change.
Be prepared to cry when you read this! It packs an emotional wallop and takes your breath away at times. This author paints such a vivid picture of the settings and the characters, you’re transported to the mountains of New Mexico. The colors, the scents, the heat... prepare to be swept away. LOVED IT.
October 4, 2016
This book focuses on Elias Santiago and Sarah Greenwood who have a romantic history together as teens and now struggle to find a way to be with each other as adults despite the generations long feud between their families (reminiscent of Romeo & Juliet). I enjoyed the descriptions of Taos, NM, and the author's deft handling of the characters' emotions and interactions. This book absolutely left me breathless - beautifully written!
Thanks to the Inner Circle for the copy of this book.
Thanks to the Inner Circle for the copy of this book.
September 30, 2016
I loved this story. I loved the way hate turn to love and allowed old wounds to heal. I also loved the unraveling of a history that was a lie, and in its place the truth of true love and how hate and bigotry created sadness for so many.
I always love how Barbara mixes the spiritual into her stories and how the spirits of Manuel and Emily became Eli and Sarah to make it right.
I wish there was a sequel or a little more of the story to find out how others in the Santiago and Greenwood family reacted to the exhibit about the truth and how Sarah and Eli life evolved after they were married. I would have like to know how Theresa life evolved.
I love Barbara's novel because no matter what type of tragedy befalls in the story love always emerges from it. I also love how wonderfully written her novels are and how interesting the her characters have, and I always wish I could meet her characters.
I always love how Barbara mixes the spiritual into her stories and how the spirits of Manuel and Emily became Eli and Sarah to make it right.
I wish there was a sequel or a little more of the story to find out how others in the Santiago and Greenwood family reacted to the exhibit about the truth and how Sarah and Eli life evolved after they were married. I would have like to know how Theresa life evolved.
I love Barbara's novel because no matter what type of tragedy befalls in the story love always emerges from it. I also love how wonderfully written her novels are and how interesting the her characters have, and I always wish I could meet her characters.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 23, 2016
I have read a great variety of books by this author and each one, without exception, takes you on a path of such substance and passion, you don't ever want to let go.
Meant to be Married is an extraordinary, creative work that is spellbinding. With Taos, New Mexico as the locale, Ms. Samuel's descriptions are so luscious in every way, you become part of the scenery, as though a new species of plant has arrived.
Elias Santiago has been in love with Sarah Greenwood since they were children. As young adults, nothing has changed except to make their love stronger. Unfortunately, like the Hatfield and McCoys, their families have been at war for 150 years. In their youthful exuberance and innocence, they thought they would be able to end this cycle of hatred, by running away to be married. Instead, they decided to return home to explain their feelings, when Elias is arrested outside of town with the bogus charge of kidnapping. As Sara watches horrified, she is whisked away by her father, an ex-cop.
Twelve years later, Sarah, now a world famous fashion photographer in New York City, returns to Taos because of her father's ill health. While she has visited over the years, she has never forgiven her father for his racist and ignorant actions towards Elias. Ironically, Elias has become a respected businessman with his own brand of specialty teas, making him a wealthy man.
Nothing prepares them for their first meeting after all this time. Like the violent storms that are so prevalent, the electricity they generate together could light up the city. Sarah wants to protect her heart and Elias wants to find revenge for all the betrayals.
I won't give anything away, but you'll be thrilled with a wonderful surprise at the end, but no peeking until you've read it all. There are not enough adjectives to describe how exquisitely this is written, except to say that I wish everyone could find such a passionate and fulfilling love that pushes them to go beyond their comfort zones and fight any forces against them. There's such beauty here, I want to read it again so it seeps back into my pores. Bravo Ms. Samuel! I received an ARC for an honest review.
Meant to be Married is an extraordinary, creative work that is spellbinding. With Taos, New Mexico as the locale, Ms. Samuel's descriptions are so luscious in every way, you become part of the scenery, as though a new species of plant has arrived.
Elias Santiago has been in love with Sarah Greenwood since they were children. As young adults, nothing has changed except to make their love stronger. Unfortunately, like the Hatfield and McCoys, their families have been at war for 150 years. In their youthful exuberance and innocence, they thought they would be able to end this cycle of hatred, by running away to be married. Instead, they decided to return home to explain their feelings, when Elias is arrested outside of town with the bogus charge of kidnapping. As Sara watches horrified, she is whisked away by her father, an ex-cop.
Twelve years later, Sarah, now a world famous fashion photographer in New York City, returns to Taos because of her father's ill health. While she has visited over the years, she has never forgiven her father for his racist and ignorant actions towards Elias. Ironically, Elias has become a respected businessman with his own brand of specialty teas, making him a wealthy man.
Nothing prepares them for their first meeting after all this time. Like the violent storms that are so prevalent, the electricity they generate together could light up the city. Sarah wants to protect her heart and Elias wants to find revenge for all the betrayals.
I won't give anything away, but you'll be thrilled with a wonderful surprise at the end, but no peeking until you've read it all. There are not enough adjectives to describe how exquisitely this is written, except to say that I wish everyone could find such a passionate and fulfilling love that pushes them to go beyond their comfort zones and fight any forces against them. There's such beauty here, I want to read it again so it seeps back into my pores. Bravo Ms. Samuel! I received an ARC for an honest review.
May 19, 2011
I like it! Ceritanya dalem banget yaaa. Cerita seperti ini yang oke buat buku buku harlequin... Well, at least novel ini punya nilai lebih di mata saya. Kenapa? Here's the reason...
Permusuhan keluarga Greenwood dan Santiago sudah berlangsung selama 1,5 abad dan selalu memakan korban. Makanya, ketika 150 tahun kemudian Sarah Greenwood dan Eli Santiago saling jatuh cinta, jelas orang tua masing-masing langsung menentang. Tapi, 2 sejoli ini gigih. Bahkan sampe kabur buat melakukan kawin lari pas tau Sarah hamil. Tapi... mereka membatalkan kawin lari dan malah balik ke Taos, kota tempat tinggal mereka. Tapi, sampe di Taos, Eli malah ditangkap dan dipenjara dengan tuduhan penculikan, sementara Sarah diungsinkan ke lain kota sampe bayinya lahir dan diserahkan untuk diadopsi.
Duabelas tahun kemudian, Sarah terpaksa kembali ke Taos gara-gara ayahnya jatuh sakit. Ketemu lagi denga Eli, malah bikin Sarah bingung. Apalagi Sarah juga gak pernah memaafkan ayahnya karena memaksa Sarah untuk menyerahkan bayinya. Sementara Eli, juga bertekad balas dendam ke Garth Greenwood -ayah Sarah, karena merasa sakit hati terhadap penangkapannya.
Yah, seperti itulah... Ada kesalahpahaman antara mereka berdua... Yang lebih pasti lagi toh, mereka berdua menyadari masih saling cinta. Dan seperti judul Inggrisnya Meant To Be Married, memang itulah artinya dalam bahasa Indonesia... Ditakdirkan untuk menikah. Karena kekeraskepalaan baik Eli maupun ayahnya, Sarah pun sampai nekat mencari tau apa yang terjadi 150 tahun lalu... Ternyata oh ternyata... apa yang sesungguhnya terjadi benar benar berbeda dari apa yang sudah diceritakan turun temurun dalam 150 tahun... ini juga yang akhirnya membuat Eli dan Sarah makin yakin dengan cinta mereka.
Permusuhan keluarga Greenwood dan Santiago sudah berlangsung selama 1,5 abad dan selalu memakan korban. Makanya, ketika 150 tahun kemudian Sarah Greenwood dan Eli Santiago saling jatuh cinta, jelas orang tua masing-masing langsung menentang. Tapi, 2 sejoli ini gigih. Bahkan sampe kabur buat melakukan kawin lari pas tau Sarah hamil. Tapi... mereka membatalkan kawin lari dan malah balik ke Taos, kota tempat tinggal mereka. Tapi, sampe di Taos, Eli malah ditangkap dan dipenjara dengan tuduhan penculikan, sementara Sarah diungsinkan ke lain kota sampe bayinya lahir dan diserahkan untuk diadopsi.
Duabelas tahun kemudian, Sarah terpaksa kembali ke Taos gara-gara ayahnya jatuh sakit. Ketemu lagi denga Eli, malah bikin Sarah bingung. Apalagi Sarah juga gak pernah memaafkan ayahnya karena memaksa Sarah untuk menyerahkan bayinya. Sementara Eli, juga bertekad balas dendam ke Garth Greenwood -ayah Sarah, karena merasa sakit hati terhadap penangkapannya.
Yah, seperti itulah... Ada kesalahpahaman antara mereka berdua... Yang lebih pasti lagi toh, mereka berdua menyadari masih saling cinta. Dan seperti judul Inggrisnya Meant To Be Married, memang itulah artinya dalam bahasa Indonesia... Ditakdirkan untuk menikah. Karena kekeraskepalaan baik Eli maupun ayahnya, Sarah pun sampai nekat mencari tau apa yang terjadi 150 tahun lalu... Ternyata oh ternyata... apa yang sesungguhnya terjadi benar benar berbeda dari apa yang sudah diceritakan turun temurun dalam 150 tahun... ini juga yang akhirnya membuat Eli dan Sarah makin yakin dengan cinta mereka.
September 29, 2016
Any book with Barbara Samuel's name on it goes straight to the top of my TBR list, and Meant To Be Married is no exception. Samuel grabs readers by the heart in the opening, when teen lovers, Eli and Sarah, are thwarted in their attempt to craft a happily ever after, but the story is only beginning, and what a ride it is.
Ten years, one jail term, and one forced adoption later, the star crossed lovers reencounter each other when Sarah returns to Taos, New Mexico, to help her ailing father, whom she still resents, and follow her passion for photography. Though Eli has become a successful businessman, with his locally produced tea company, his emotional wounds still run deep. Neither he nor Sarah know the truth of their separation, or of the centuries-long feud that has made love, or even civility, between their two families impossible.
This is a Barbara Samuel novel, however, so love is going to find a way. Working together to help Eli's niece, the smoldering ashes of Eli and Sarah's love ignite. They'll have to conquer their own demons, and unravel a centuries-old mystery, but some fires burn too bright to extinguish. Though this is a contemporary take on the Romeo and Juliet theme, there is more than enough background on the longstanding family feud to please historical readers. Samuel delivers the perfect grace note in the epilogue, ensuring that Eli and Sarah get their true hearts' desire at last. Highly recommended.
Ten years, one jail term, and one forced adoption later, the star crossed lovers reencounter each other when Sarah returns to Taos, New Mexico, to help her ailing father, whom she still resents, and follow her passion for photography. Though Eli has become a successful businessman, with his locally produced tea company, his emotional wounds still run deep. Neither he nor Sarah know the truth of their separation, or of the centuries-long feud that has made love, or even civility, between their two families impossible.
This is a Barbara Samuel novel, however, so love is going to find a way. Working together to help Eli's niece, the smoldering ashes of Eli and Sarah's love ignite. They'll have to conquer their own demons, and unravel a centuries-old mystery, but some fires burn too bright to extinguish. Though this is a contemporary take on the Romeo and Juliet theme, there is more than enough background on the longstanding family feud to please historical readers. Samuel delivers the perfect grace note in the epilogue, ensuring that Eli and Sarah get their true hearts' desire at last. Highly recommended.
August 19, 2012
This is one of my all time favorite books. You have to get over the dopey cover and I was not that crazy about the title. But, OMG, the story is great.
Sarah comes back home to Taos, New Mexico, because her father has had a heart attack. Twelve years earlier her father had prevented her from marrying Elias Santiago, and she hasn't really been home or seen Elias since then. Both Sarah and Elias have successful careers, but neither one of them have found love or families with anyone else. Can these two forgive each other and her father? Can they end the feud between the Greenwood and Santiago families?
The descriptions of Taos just take me there -- the smells, the light, the food! Love it. Sarah is a successful, professional photographer, and her artist's vision of the town and area is magical. Elias has established a family tea business based on recipes from his abuela. Part of the reconciliation between the families involves Elias' niece, Teresa, who wants to be a model, and Sarah volunteering to not only take pictures of Teresa but also to introduce her to the art of photography.
Sarah comes back home to Taos, New Mexico, because her father has had a heart attack. Twelve years earlier her father had prevented her from marrying Elias Santiago, and she hasn't really been home or seen Elias since then. Both Sarah and Elias have successful careers, but neither one of them have found love or families with anyone else. Can these two forgive each other and her father? Can they end the feud between the Greenwood and Santiago families?
The descriptions of Taos just take me there -- the smells, the light, the food! Love it. Sarah is a successful, professional photographer, and her artist's vision of the town and area is magical. Elias has established a family tea business based on recipes from his abuela. Part of the reconciliation between the families involves Elias' niece, Teresa, who wants to be a model, and Sarah volunteering to not only take pictures of Teresa but also to introduce her to the art of photography.
May 15, 2008
Saya menyukai buku ini, karena ini cerita tentang cinta lama, ada konflik masa lalu yang mempengaruhi hubungan cinta ini. sebenarnya ini romance klasik, seperti Romeo dan Juliet, bedanya tidak ada yg meninggal dalam cerita ini.
Sarah dan Elias adalah sepasang kekasih dimana kedua keluarga merupakan musuh bebuyutan.
Dendam Elias kepada Sarah, sebenarnya lebih karena Sarah menyerahkan putri mereka untuk di adopsi. Duabelas tahun kemudian, Sarah mulai merasa jenuh dengan karier fotografer yg di pilihnya, dengan dalih ingin berdamai dengan ayahnya, Grath, dia pulang kampung, dan cukup mengejutkan, hari pertama, di bawah pohon kenangan, dia bertemu Elias yang masih menaruh dendam dan berniat untuk membalasnya.
Sarah terpojok antara ayahnya dan Elias, tetapi dengan kebijaksanaan yang dia dapat dari nenek Elias, Sarah berusaha menemukan, apa penyebab perselisihan masa lampau itu, apakah benar Emily Greenwood diperkosa oleh Manuel Santiago ? dan yang ditemukannya sangat mengejutkan.
Sarah dan Elias adalah sepasang kekasih dimana kedua keluarga merupakan musuh bebuyutan.
Dendam Elias kepada Sarah, sebenarnya lebih karena Sarah menyerahkan putri mereka untuk di adopsi. Duabelas tahun kemudian, Sarah mulai merasa jenuh dengan karier fotografer yg di pilihnya, dengan dalih ingin berdamai dengan ayahnya, Grath, dia pulang kampung, dan cukup mengejutkan, hari pertama, di bawah pohon kenangan, dia bertemu Elias yang masih menaruh dendam dan berniat untuk membalasnya.
Sarah terpojok antara ayahnya dan Elias, tetapi dengan kebijaksanaan yang dia dapat dari nenek Elias, Sarah berusaha menemukan, apa penyebab perselisihan masa lampau itu, apakah benar Emily Greenwood diperkosa oleh Manuel Santiago ? dan yang ditemukannya sangat mengejutkan.
September 23, 2016
This was another outstanding book by Barbara Samuel. The development of her characters is superb and she seems to write in a language that is totally distinct to her. The words, sentences and paragraphs flow amazingly smoothly and build the story atom by atom until you have one exceptional being, which is the story in it's entirety.
This was a story of two young lovers torn apart by their families, coming together again years later. The family problems are still there, but they are mature people who are determined to find their own way this time around. The struggles seem to be overwhelming at times, but their hearts know what their hearts know. If they can get over or reconcile with their old pain, they might have a future together.
I was given this book in exchange for an honest review.
This was a story of two young lovers torn apart by their families, coming together again years later. The family problems are still there, but they are mature people who are determined to find their own way this time around. The struggles seem to be overwhelming at times, but their hearts know what their hearts know. If they can get over or reconcile with their old pain, they might have a future together.
I was given this book in exchange for an honest review.
October 4, 2016
Barbara Samuel always gives me hope. Especially in her books that involve second chances. In this book we have Sarah and Eli who were teenage sweethearts. That relationship was doomed from the start due to a long standing family feud. When Sarah’s father falls ill she returns home after a twelve year absence. She is really unprepared to encounter Eli, even after all this time has passed. Although he has built an enormously successful global business and she has become a world renowned photographer not much has changed regarding their feelings for one another. During the course of Sarah’s visit with both of them trying to help Eli’s young niece, they are forced to confront those feelings. Sarah is also forced to confront her long held grudge against her father.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for my unbiased review.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for my unbiased review.
September 23, 2016
Sarah and Eli's young romance was doomed by the centuries' long feud between their families. Their breakup drastically damaged these two lovely souls. I have such empathy for them that I hurt when their secrets were revealed and they found that they were both lacking information about what happened to the other. As we meet them 12 years later, they are still attracted but it is unlikely that they will get their HEA, or is it?
This was a book that I couldn't put down; the descriptions of the Taos area were detailed and delightful, !he characters and accomplishments of Sarah and Eli were wonderful, and the family feud was horrendous and silly. The well developed plot and characters made this story unforgettable.
This was a book that I couldn't put down; the descriptions of the Taos area were detailed and delightful, !he characters and accomplishments of Sarah and Eli were wonderful, and the family feud was horrendous and silly. The well developed plot and characters made this story unforgettable.
September 22, 2016
This was a well-written, emotionally rich book. Sarah has returned to her home town after many years away. She has to face Elias, her first love, who she hasn't seen since their relationship was destroyed 12 years before. The descriptions of the landscape where they live, as well as the emotions and actions of all the characters, were vivid and lingered in my mind while I read. This was a great story. I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
October 4, 2016
A story of family and relationships. An old feud, great family pride and love. What could possibly go wrong? The author has woven a beautiful story of heartbreak and pain and healing amid the backdrop of the New Mexico landscape. The characters' pain was palpable but not overwhelming to the story. They made mistakes and begged forgiveness. A very enjoyable read
** Free copy provided for the author's Inner Circle reader group. Opinions are my own.
** Free copy provided for the author's Inner Circle reader group. Opinions are my own.
September 24, 2016
Ment to be Married
Great story. After suffering from the long hatred of Her family's and the Family of the Man she loved . The Heroin left her Hometown and this Story begins with her return . A very good story. Well written main character and the Story kept me reading I could not put it down it kept my interest till to the end .
Great story. After suffering from the long hatred of Her family's and the Family of the Man she loved . The Heroin left her Hometown and this Story begins with her return . A very good story. Well written main character and the Story kept me reading I could not put it down it kept my interest till to the end .
September 24, 2012
I enjoyed the book, but every time I thought the couple were finally together, an argument about their past got one of them in a huff all over again. Too drawn out.
April 22, 2016
Great
As always Ruth Wind comes through with an amazing story.Keeps you laughing and tearing up,wondering just what going to happen next. I really enjoyed this one.
As always Ruth Wind comes through with an amazing story.Keeps you laughing and tearing up,wondering just what going to happen next. I really enjoyed this one.
Read
November 21, 2016Once again I found it hard to put a Barbara Samuel book down. Starting out in the past, I couldn't wait to read "what happened" Loved this book!
June 14, 2008
ceritanya agak berbelit-belit
May 18, 2013
Luv dis story...
May 1, 2017
Always a good story by Samuel
Samuel always has unusual and engaging story lines. Her stories are passionate and heated. In this book her main characters battle through a historic family feud. There is photography, and tea farming, and a child that was adopted out. The odds are stacked against this couple by their waring families. Samuels fans will love this book. I personally tire a little of their all consuming sexual attraction.
Samuel always has unusual and engaging story lines. Her stories are passionate and heated. In this book her main characters battle through a historic family feud. There is photography, and tea farming, and a child that was adopted out. The odds are stacked against this couple by their waring families. Samuels fans will love this book. I personally tire a little of their all consuming sexual attraction.
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