Catherine “Cat” Palmer is a journalism major at Howard University, and works full-time as a receptionist in an emergency room. Juggling work and studies has left her no time for a social life. When her friends drag her to a frat party one night, she doesn’t expect to be introduced to the campus heartthrob, Dorian Wallace. Dorian is a business major at the university, known for his wealth and prowess with women. When he lays eyes on Catherine, it is love at first sight. It doesn’t take long before the two become inseparable.
At first, Catherine is enamored with Dorian’s attentiveness, and is grateful for the new lifestyle his wealth has afforded her. It soon becomes apparent Dorian’s intentions are not honorable, and simply a means of controlling her. Catherine finds every reason to excuse his antiquated thinking and domineering behavior; however, ignoring his actions isn’t as easy for those closest to her.
Will Catherine have the strength to escape the abuse, or will their love remain Unbalanced?
Laura T. Johnson is the author of Where Would I Be, Unbalanced Series, and To Love Again. Laura was first bitten by the writing bug six years ago. While reading her journal she began to realize that her story could possibly help others who were going through the same thing. In 2006, Laura was the victim of an abusive relationship that lasted for two and half years. The relationship was volatile from the beginning. While in this relationship, Laura contemplated suicide almost on a daily basis. If asked, she would immediately tell you that what kept her from going through with suicide were her mother and younger brother. “I couldn’t leave them with that much pain, no matter what I was going through.” In 2009, Laura began to write her first novel. She thought, as her mother had told her many times before that she was not the only woman who had or will ever go through something like this. After filling up four notebooks, she decided that she might have a book on her hands. Laura went on to make the necessary changes to her writing and started letting others read her work. When those who’d read her work wanted to read more, she knew she had something good on her hands. Laura has continued her writing and the outcome has been one compelling story after another. She continues to keep her fans wanting more! She resides in Tennessee where she is an advocate against domestic violence.
Wow! This is the first book that I finished in a day ever! Laura does not disappoint and I am excited to read part 2! If you looking for a great suspense book, pick this one up.
Title: Unbalanced Author: Laura T.Johnson Publisher: L.A.B. Publishing Reviewed By: Arlena Dean Rating: Five Review:
"Unbalanced" by Laura T. Johnson
My Thoughts....
This was a very interesting as well as a compelling story about Catherine Palmer and Dorian Wallace. I was able to hang on every word as I read through this subplot about this story. From the read I found myself thinking this happens a lot to us...sisters...wanted love and what had already happened in Catherine's life with her parents and grandmother gone from her...she wanted someone to love her unconditionally. It looks like Catherine as it all but.... Then Catherine meets the the 'campus heartthrob, Dorian Wallace.' Will sparks fly for these two? Well, it seems so but was it really? What was up with Dorian's 'domineering behavior? Couldn't Catherine as well as others see through it all? What will happen when Catherine faces the abuse that is right in front of her as she faces this 'Unbalanced' love? This is where I say you will have to pick up this novel to see how this author presents it to the reader. This author really digs deep in telling the reader this story because she has been faced with so much of it through being abused herself.
There can only be one message here and what I learned from this good read was that when one shows 'jealousy, possessiveness, controlling and a violent side' this can only lead one to a road of disaster. There are only two roads one can take ....one way in or one way out.
All that glitters isn't gold- BRAB ONLINE BOOK CLUB
The hallmark of a good story is one in which an author writes a compelling story about a serious topic and it leaves the reader wanting more. This is the second book I've read by this author and it is just as compelling as Where would I be.
When Catherine Palmer met Dorian Wallace at a frat party, she was immediately taken by his charm and kindness. She had lost her parents as young child and was raised by her grandmother, who later died. Dorian Wallace was from a prominent, rich family and once he had his sights on Catherine, she didn't stand a chance.
It wasn't too long after that the cracks started showing. Dorian started showing a side of him that took her completely by surprise. He showed his jealous, possessive, controlling and violent side that could lead to a disastrous end.
The way the author tells the story of the main characters, as well as the secondary characters is compelling and you can't help but be bowled over by the story and the message. I am anxiously awaiting the conclusion to this story.
This story pulled me in right away with Catherine’s busy life and relatable struggles. Watching her get swept up in Dorian’s charm felt realistic and a little unsettling, especially as the relationship slowly shifted from romance to control. I appreciated how the book showed the emotional confusion that keeps people stuck in unhealthy situations. It was heartbreaking at times but also empowering by the end.
This was a re-read for me in order to participate in my book club meeting. I gave it 5 stars back when I first read it and I am giving it 5 stars again. Very rarely would I go back and do a re-read. I thoroughly enjoyed this one. I must admit I was mad at Catherine throughout the book for the things she went through with Dorian. Unless I have been put in that situation I really can't judge her.