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Nashville Nights #2
Salvation
Letting go never felt so good.
Carlisle Queen is dying and no one knows it.
Burying the pain of losing her friends and her professional swimming career in a terrorist attack, America’s former sweetheart dulls her pain with drugs, pills and parties. The bomb left her with more than nightmares; shrapnel is lodged in her back and inching closer to her spinal cord. When the doctors tell her paralysis is inevitable, she decides to take her own life rather than face a lifetime in a wheelchair.
Mateo Butler isn’t anyone’s hero.
Reeling from the death of his little sister and his own cowardice, he spends his nights partying and his days ignoring the medical school acceptance letters and his parents’ concerned phone calls. Just a couple of months from graduation, he’s facing a future filled with shame and regret. The last thing he needs is to meet the woman who compels him to be a better man.
Can they save each other?
When Carlisle and Mateo meet, the chemistry between them is combustible. They play, party and hide their true selves until one night turns their lust into something more…something real. As secrets are revealed and walls collapse, what they were and what they might become doesn’t matter as much as who they are together. When the choice comes down to life or death, can love be their salvation?
Carlisle Queen is dying and no one knows it.
Burying the pain of losing her friends and her professional swimming career in a terrorist attack, America’s former sweetheart dulls her pain with drugs, pills and parties. The bomb left her with more than nightmares; shrapnel is lodged in her back and inching closer to her spinal cord. When the doctors tell her paralysis is inevitable, she decides to take her own life rather than face a lifetime in a wheelchair.
Mateo Butler isn’t anyone’s hero.
Reeling from the death of his little sister and his own cowardice, he spends his nights partying and his days ignoring the medical school acceptance letters and his parents’ concerned phone calls. Just a couple of months from graduation, he’s facing a future filled with shame and regret. The last thing he needs is to meet the woman who compels him to be a better man.
Can they save each other?
When Carlisle and Mateo meet, the chemistry between them is combustible. They play, party and hide their true selves until one night turns their lust into something more…something real. As secrets are revealed and walls collapse, what they were and what they might become doesn’t matter as much as who they are together. When the choice comes down to life or death, can love be their salvation?
210 pages, Paperback
First published May 11, 2015
10 people are currently reading
449 people want to read
About the author
Robin Covington
54 books1,224 followersA USAToday and Wall Street Journal bestseller, Robin Covington loves to explore the theme of fooling around and falling in love in her books. Her stories burn up the sheets…one page at a time. A biracial author of Native American descent, Robin proudly writes diverse romances where everyone gets their happily ever after.
A 2016 RITA® Award finalist, Robin’s books have won the National Reader’s Choice and Golden Leaf Awards and finaled in the Romantic Times Reviewer’s Choice, the Holt Medallion Awards, and the Book Seller’s Best.
She is an unapologetic Indiginerd and comic book geek. She hoards red nail polish and stalks Chris Evans. She is thoroughly obsessed with her Corgis, Dixie Joan Wilder & Delilah Skye O’Malley
Drop her a line at [robin@robincovingtonromance.com](mailto:robin@robincovingtonromance.com) - she always writes back.
A 2016 RITA® Award finalist, Robin’s books have won the National Reader’s Choice and Golden Leaf Awards and finaled in the Romantic Times Reviewer’s Choice, the Holt Medallion Awards, and the Book Seller’s Best.
She is an unapologetic Indiginerd and comic book geek. She hoards red nail polish and stalks Chris Evans. She is thoroughly obsessed with her Corgis, Dixie Joan Wilder & Delilah Skye O’Malley
Drop her a line at [robin@robincovingtonromance.com](mailto:robin@robincovingtonromance.com) - she always writes back.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 75 reviews
August 14, 2015
Originally posted on The Book Nympho
Carlisle Queen lives each day like it's her last because it just may well be. Still suffering from the after effects of injuries sustained in a bomb blast that killed her boyfriend, she knows that death is an eventual certainty unless the shrapnel remaining in her body is removed. That also means that she won't be starting any long term relationships but her handsome Spanish class teaching assistant, Mateo Butler, presents a challenge to that resolve.
I loved this story! It's not your typical new adult tale, only the ages of the couple fitting the category. Both Carlisle and Mateo are somewhat old souls who've dealt with some tough issues but are surrounded by loving, nurturing families. Their romance starts with a hot, steamy encounter that she intended as a one-time event but he had other ideas. What follows is a reluctant relationship that burns hot fast and is tested when life shows up in a bad way.
What really works here are the rough roads Carlisle and Mateo face and how they respond. I also liked how the realities of someone suffering from debilitating injuries and pain were portrayed. They were so young and learning how to communicate and manage a relationship (with no experience in how to do it) under these circumstances was portrayed honestly and without filters. Some of their decisions broke my heart but seemed true to character.
I was unprepared for the depth of this story and was pleasantly surprised, even though it's a tough one. Resilience, strength of character, love and commitment were themes that resonated loudly for me. I'm so glad I read this book.
(I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review)
Carlisle Queen lives each day like it's her last because it just may well be. Still suffering from the after effects of injuries sustained in a bomb blast that killed her boyfriend, she knows that death is an eventual certainty unless the shrapnel remaining in her body is removed. That also means that she won't be starting any long term relationships but her handsome Spanish class teaching assistant, Mateo Butler, presents a challenge to that resolve.
I loved this story! It's not your typical new adult tale, only the ages of the couple fitting the category. Both Carlisle and Mateo are somewhat old souls who've dealt with some tough issues but are surrounded by loving, nurturing families. Their romance starts with a hot, steamy encounter that she intended as a one-time event but he had other ideas. What follows is a reluctant relationship that burns hot fast and is tested when life shows up in a bad way.
What really works here are the rough roads Carlisle and Mateo face and how they respond. I also liked how the realities of someone suffering from debilitating injuries and pain were portrayed. They were so young and learning how to communicate and manage a relationship (with no experience in how to do it) under these circumstances was portrayed honestly and without filters. Some of their decisions broke my heart but seemed true to character.
I was unprepared for the depth of this story and was pleasantly surprised, even though it's a tough one. Resilience, strength of character, love and commitment were themes that resonated loudly for me. I'm so glad I read this book.
(I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review)
May 18, 2015
3.5 - "I'll be the one with the cowboy boots and the very low expectations." Stars.
Salvation is the first book for me from Robin Covington, having heard nothing but positive feedback about this author for quite a while, I was relatively certain I would be in for a treat. That said as a reader, the author does touch on a subject in this book that I for the most part try to avoid, recreational drug use in all it’s forms never really appeals to me, so I have to be honest and say I wasn’t sure how I would handle it within the confines of Carlisle and Mateo’s story.
I have to say that Robin offered up a frank, un-glamorized and more importantly not overused view of it and for that reason, it didn’t have as much impact on my enjoyment as it has in books in the past. I think this is mainly due to the fact that Carlisle’s reasons for ’self-medicating’ aren’t just for the hell of it, and aren’t overplayed either.
”This could get complicated… It could get messy”
It is also the same with the ‘reluctance to commit’ trope, sometimes an author can overplay their hand in this region and it ends up pulling the book down into a sort of merry-go round of recurring issues, Robin again kept Carlisle and Teo’s reluctance at an acceptable level, their circling of each other through the school year gives the speed of their coming together enough depth that it, and everything that followed didn’t have that ‘insta’ feel.
Sometimes the path of love isn’t pretty and this couple is definitely dealing with their fair share of demons. But they are dealt with well, the story keeps moving, the drama is valid and not overly angsty. The sex, well it was that well written that I went back several times to re-read passages, Mateo certainly knows how to use his words.
"You won't know each other better if you don't talk about it.
Time passes in this book, as Carlisle and Teo’s lives move on, not always together, but their hearts are still wholly consumed by the other, I liked that they didn’t instantly get their happily ever after, they both had to work out who they were before their relationship together could fully solidify.
I haven’t read the first book in this series, although it is now sitting on my Kindle waiting for me to get to it, I would happily buy another book by this author after the reading experience I had with Salvation, gritty, emotive, unusual and just damn good reading.
”Usually I’m a one and done girl.”
ARC generously provided via Netgalley, in exchange for the above honest review.
Salvation is the first book for me from Robin Covington, having heard nothing but positive feedback about this author for quite a while, I was relatively certain I would be in for a treat. That said as a reader, the author does touch on a subject in this book that I for the most part try to avoid, recreational drug use in all it’s forms never really appeals to me, so I have to be honest and say I wasn’t sure how I would handle it within the confines of Carlisle and Mateo’s story.
I have to say that Robin offered up a frank, un-glamorized and more importantly not overused view of it and for that reason, it didn’t have as much impact on my enjoyment as it has in books in the past. I think this is mainly due to the fact that Carlisle’s reasons for ’self-medicating’ aren’t just for the hell of it, and aren’t overplayed either.
”This could get complicated… It could get messy”
It is also the same with the ‘reluctance to commit’ trope, sometimes an author can overplay their hand in this region and it ends up pulling the book down into a sort of merry-go round of recurring issues, Robin again kept Carlisle and Teo’s reluctance at an acceptable level, their circling of each other through the school year gives the speed of their coming together enough depth that it, and everything that followed didn’t have that ‘insta’ feel.
Sometimes the path of love isn’t pretty and this couple is definitely dealing with their fair share of demons. But they are dealt with well, the story keeps moving, the drama is valid and not overly angsty. The sex, well it was that well written that I went back several times to re-read passages, Mateo certainly knows how to use his words.
"You won't know each other better if you don't talk about it.
Time passes in this book, as Carlisle and Teo’s lives move on, not always together, but their hearts are still wholly consumed by the other, I liked that they didn’t instantly get their happily ever after, they both had to work out who they were before their relationship together could fully solidify.
I haven’t read the first book in this series, although it is now sitting on my Kindle waiting for me to get to it, I would happily buy another book by this author after the reading experience I had with Salvation, gritty, emotive, unusual and just damn good reading.
”Usually I’m a one and done girl.”
ARC generously provided via Netgalley, in exchange for the above honest review.
July 15, 2015
5 Words: Friendship, love, death, hope, life.
After the first book in the series I had high hopes, and this did not disappoint. I couldn't wait to get back into Nashville and this steamy series.
The best thing about this series is that the books can be read as standalone stories, because although they all tie in and you'll have an overall richer experience reading them all in order, they focus on different characters and stories.
This story takes one young woman who is both incredibly brave and incredibly scared and follows her as she rebuilds her life. There were a lot of things that I didn't agree with and didn't enjoy because of my own personal preferences and feelings, but by the end those things didn't matter. Because as a whole I thought that this was pretty amazing and yet again I pre-ordered the next book.
I received a copy of this for free via NetGalley for review purposes.
After the first book in the series I had high hopes, and this did not disappoint. I couldn't wait to get back into Nashville and this steamy series.
The best thing about this series is that the books can be read as standalone stories, because although they all tie in and you'll have an overall richer experience reading them all in order, they focus on different characters and stories.
This story takes one young woman who is both incredibly brave and incredibly scared and follows her as she rebuilds her life. There were a lot of things that I didn't agree with and didn't enjoy because of my own personal preferences and feelings, but by the end those things didn't matter. Because as a whole I thought that this was pretty amazing and yet again I pre-ordered the next book.
I received a copy of this for free via NetGalley for review purposes.
May 13, 2015
Carlisle was an Olympic swimming champion with 12 medals to her name when a terrorist bomb turned her world apart, not only did she watch her boyfriend and most of her friends die but she was injured so badly that she's facing the risk of permanent paralysis. Her life has she knew it is over and she'd rather take her own life than spend it in a wheelchair. Mateo has his own problems and is still struggling to cope with his grief and anger over his sister's death. Neither of them are looking for a relationship but they can't deny the chemistry the feel. Can two damaged people find a way to heal themselves and each other.
I loved Temptation so I was really excited to get my hands on this sequel, especially when I found out that Mateo is Matt's cousin so we'd get to catch up with the previous couple as well as meet a new one. I had high hopes for Salvation and I have to say that Robin Covington once again pulled it out of the bag when it comes to creating scorching sexual chemistry between her characters. Carlisle and Mateo burn up the sheets and I enjoyed spending time with them. I was actually a bit nervous about how Carlisle's injury would be handled but I thought the author did a great job of tackling a difficult subject with sensitivity. As much as I hated the way Carlisle was so convinced that life in a wheelchair wouldn't be worth living I could certainly feel her pain and uncertainty, she had been through so much and I don't think anyone knows how they would react to that unless they were in her position.
Everything was going really well and I was loving the book until about three quarters of the way through when Carlisle made a decision that really bothered me. I can't really talk about it in detail without giving spoilers so I'll just say that I think she took the easy way out and that I would have enjoyed the last part of the book so much more if she'd just taken a different route. It didn't help that I hated Mateo's reaction to what she did. As much as I could understand where they were both coming from some things really bother me in romance and this was one of them. I'm well aware of the fact that most people wouldn't have the same issue here that I did though so I know a lot of people will love the story in spite of that.
Even with the part that upset me I still enjoyed reading Salvation, I particularly loved the changes we saw in Carlisle towards the end of the book and I was proud of the way she had pulled her life back together. This is an intense story, one that is full of emotion and fantastic chemistry between the main characters. We are also introduced to the main characters for the next book, Redemption, and I'm particularly excited about getting to spend more time with Zane and Emory!
I loved Temptation so I was really excited to get my hands on this sequel, especially when I found out that Mateo is Matt's cousin so we'd get to catch up with the previous couple as well as meet a new one. I had high hopes for Salvation and I have to say that Robin Covington once again pulled it out of the bag when it comes to creating scorching sexual chemistry between her characters. Carlisle and Mateo burn up the sheets and I enjoyed spending time with them. I was actually a bit nervous about how Carlisle's injury would be handled but I thought the author did a great job of tackling a difficult subject with sensitivity. As much as I hated the way Carlisle was so convinced that life in a wheelchair wouldn't be worth living I could certainly feel her pain and uncertainty, she had been through so much and I don't think anyone knows how they would react to that unless they were in her position.
Everything was going really well and I was loving the book until about three quarters of the way through when Carlisle made a decision that really bothered me. I can't really talk about it in detail without giving spoilers so I'll just say that I think she took the easy way out and that I would have enjoyed the last part of the book so much more if she'd just taken a different route. It didn't help that I hated Mateo's reaction to what she did. As much as I could understand where they were both coming from some things really bother me in romance and this was one of them. I'm well aware of the fact that most people wouldn't have the same issue here that I did though so I know a lot of people will love the story in spite of that.
Even with the part that upset me I still enjoyed reading Salvation, I particularly loved the changes we saw in Carlisle towards the end of the book and I was proud of the way she had pulled her life back together. This is an intense story, one that is full of emotion and fantastic chemistry between the main characters. We are also introduced to the main characters for the next book, Redemption, and I'm particularly excited about getting to spend more time with Zane and Emory!
May 15, 2015
Wow! Salvation by Robin Covington blew me away! It is one of the most emotional books I have read in 2015. This is a story of despair, hope, redemption, and unconditional love. Both of the leading characters are emotionally damaged in very different ways but their inner turmoils collide in a life altering way. They are faced with decisions that go beyond choosing each other as their one and only love. They are forced to face mortality. They are forced to chose life or death. They are forced to face the fact that if they survive the grim reaper their lives are still going to be changed drastically. They are facing very controversial decisions that are both right and wrong. In the end the one thing that matters most in their lives is their love for one another. Whether their time is limited or extended, their love is a once in a lifetime gift.
Carlisle Queen is living life with a deadline. She was an Olympic champion and international competitor. When a terrorist attack destroys her life she no longer has the same kind of drive she once had. Her injuries from the bombing have left her beyond broken. She is living in constant pain and the knowledge that her injuries are going to eventually kill her. Her only hope for survival is a very risky surgery that could leave her completely paralyzed. She is not even a candidate for the surgery at this time. She has seen every specialist there is to see. Her prognosis is not looking good. She also has very strong feelings about the surgery. She does not want to go through life in a wheel chair. She has consciously chosen to take her own life when her health and pain can no longer be managed. With this resolution, she is living life on the edge. She manages her pain with pills and drugs. She has random hookups. She limits her friendships and relationships because she knows she is a ticking time bomb.
On the surface Mateo Butler is the perfect guy. He is drop dead gorgeous, has a great personality, and is extremely intelligent. He has a bright future and has been accepted into medical school. He is the guy that every girl wants. His confidence and charming personality has earned him quite a reputation with the ladies. He is a genuinely good guy. Beneath the surface he has his own demons. He is haunted by his sister's death. He turned his back on his sister when she chose to take her own life rather than fight the disease that was taking her life. He could not forgive her for actions. He regrets turning his back on her and now he can't make it right. He's not sure if he really wants to become a doctor. He is beginning to think that it may have been his sister's dream and not his. He is at crossroads on what direction he is going to take after college graduation.
When Mateo and Carlisle meet it is instant attraction. What starts out as a one night stand hook up turns into a solid friendship. The friendship leads them both into a sizzling hot relationship that neither of them wanted or expected. But the heart wants what it needs. In many ways their relationship is perfect. They enjoy each other's company, they are extremely compatible, they bring out the best in each other, and their sexual relationship is sizzling hot. The only problem is that they are both keeping their secrets close. They are hiding the demons that chase them. When reality smacks them in the face they will have to face choices that most couples will never have to face. Can their love survive these choices?
Salvation was an incredible story. It was gut wrenching and emotional. At the same time it showed how important it is to share your love with someone. It showed how important it is to live life to the fullest no matter what lays ahead.
Read this book!
May 10, 2015
3.5 stars
Salvation was a good read.
I enjoyed the storyline and characters.
The chemistry and attraction between Mateo and Carlisle was off the charts.
I loved how passionate they loved one another so seeing the storyline take a particular turn upset me.
I totally understood the reasons why Carlisle had to do what she did but I was not happy with what happened with Mateo.
This makes me sad as up until then I was totally in love with him. While I get his reasons I just can't help how my heart feels, it took some of the shine away =(
The ending was heartwarming and I was left knowing while life ahead wasn't going to be easy the love they shared would get them through <3
Overall this was an emotional and heartfelt read, I did enjoy it and I'm looking forward to the next book in the Nashville Nights series https://www.goodreads.com/series/1468...
Thank you to Netgalley and Burning Up The Sheets, LLC I received an advance copy in exchange for my honest thoughts.
Salvation was a good read.
I enjoyed the storyline and characters.
The chemistry and attraction between Mateo and Carlisle was off the charts.
I loved how passionate they loved one another so seeing the storyline take a particular turn upset me.
I totally understood the reasons why Carlisle had to do what she did but I was not happy with what happened with Mateo.
This makes me sad as up until then I was totally in love with him. While I get his reasons I just can't help how my heart feels, it took some of the shine away =(
The ending was heartwarming and I was left knowing while life ahead wasn't going to be easy the love they shared would get them through <3
Overall this was an emotional and heartfelt read, I did enjoy it and I'm looking forward to the next book in the Nashville Nights series https://www.goodreads.com/series/1468...
Thank you to Netgalley and Burning Up The Sheets, LLC I received an advance copy in exchange for my honest thoughts.
May 13, 2015
Beth's Review
Salvation is another really great read from the Nashville Nights. I really enjoyed Temptation and thoroughly enjoyed Salvation. Both books can be read as stand alone books but must say I really enjoyed getting to see more of Kit and Max in Salvation while we got to see Max’s cousin Mateo and Carlisle’s heartbreaking story.
Carlisle is still struggling with the events that changed her life forever, a life she plans on ending soon. Carlisle was a gold medal winning Olympic swimmer in love with her teammate and best friend, Aaron. All that changed two years ago when a terrorist set off a bomb that killed many including Aaron and left her injured beyond repair with shrapnel still lodged in her back that will eventually paralyze her and possibly eventually kill her. She would rather end her life than end up in a wheelchair and plans on leaving this life on her own terms, not her body’s. That is until she meets Mateo Butler, her Spanish class teaching assistant. She has been attracted to him since the first of the year but has never let herself get close, she knew he was trouble, to her and to her heart. There was something about him, he came off as the partier but she could see inside of him, he was a good guy but he too was broken, which she eventually finds out is because of his sister’s death, a story that is very much similar to her own. The chemistry between these two is off the charts and they try to keep it casual but there is more to them than that and neither can deny, they give each other hope, a hope of better things ahead, something they both gave up on a long time ago.
Carlisle’s story is absolutely heart breaking, to have the life and the love she one have be completely blown up and never resemble what it once was truly devastating. The once simple life she lived and shared with Aaron was no longer, she lost both him and some of her closest friends, swimming competitively the way she did would never happen and slowly being able to walk was slipping away as well. Some may say she was not strong over the fact she planned on ending her life, but she was, she didn’t give up in a moment up weakness and tried to end it. She planned to live the life she wanted and to the fullest she could and before she would end up living a life in a wheel chair she was going to end it on her terms. She was taking control of her life, she didn’t want to live her life that way so she was going to not, and she didn’t hide that fact, her family knew and her friends knew.
Mateo had his own struggles in losing his sister and he is left with regrets but I love knowing what he knows about Carlisle he is determined to stand beside her and support her no matter what she decides. I loved that he loved her so very much that she was the most important thing to him, even more so than med school. I loved how determined he was to win her over even from the very start, he knew how she was and that she didn’t want anything but he was determined to change that and he did. And most of all, even though their chemistry was intense, for him it was more about his love for her and even being faced with that part of their relationship drastically changing, he wasn’t walking away and he was determined to work with what they were faced with. How could I not absolutely love a hot sexy guy who spoke Spanish that truly was deep down a caring sweet man.
Overall a really fabulous story that first broke my heart and then healed it. I couldn’t help but be pulled into their story immediately and feel the heartbreaking emotions of both these characters. I will also add the chemistry and attraction between these two was off the charts and when they were together you could really feel their connection. Although you could feel how intense their connection was, for me it felt a bit too soon to be that intense, it didn’t feel insta-love but I would have liked to see a few more interactions between them before they got to that point. I really loved the storyline and how it played out, it was heartbreaking to know all that she had been through and seeing her still struggle at times 2 years later but I loved seeing how him being there for her and giving her his love truly helped to truly heal and begin to live again.
May 13, 2015
4 stars--
ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date May 11, 2015
Letting go never felt so good.
Carlisle Queen is dying and no one knows it.
Burying the pain of losing her friends and her professional swimming career in a terrorist attack, America’s former sweetheart dulls her pain with drugs, pills and parties. The bomb left her with more than nightmares; shrapnel is lodged in her back and inching closer to her spinal cord. When the doctors tell her paralysis is inevitable, she decides to take her own life rather than face a lifetime in a wheelchair.
Mateo Butler isn’t anyone’s hero.
Reeling from the death of his little sister and his own cowardice, he spends his nights partying and his days ignoring the medical school acceptance letters and his parents’ concerned phone calls. Just a couple of months from graduation, he’s facing a future filled with shame and regret. The last thing he needs is to meet the woman who compels him to be a better man.
Can they save each other?
When Carlisle and Mateo meet, the chemistry between them is combustible. They play, party and hide their true selves until one night turns their lust into something more…something real. As secrets are revealed and walls collapse, what they were and what they might become doesn’t matter as much as who they are together. When the choice comes down to life or death, can love be their salvation?
•••••••••••
REVIEW: SALVATION is the second installment in Robin Covington’s new adult, contemporary Nashville Nights romance series. This is college students Mateo Butler and Olympic gold medalist for swimming Carlisle Queen’s storyline. SALVATION can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Some of the previous storyline characters play a small secondary and supporting role in the novel.
Told from alternating first person points of view (Carlisle and Mateo) SALVATION follows the building relationship and fall out between Carlisle Queen and Mateo Butler. Carlisle barely survived a terrorist bomb that killed her best friend and boyfriend Aaron, but in the ensuing time, our heroine has had a difficult time with recovery and grief. The doctors were unable to remove all of the shrapnel that is slowly edging towards her spine leaving Carlisle in constant pain and wondering when the her time will end. Hiding her pain with drugs and sex, Carlisle targets Mateo Butler, her Spanish TA, as her next fix and conquest. But things don’t go according to plan when Carlisle begins to fall for the sexy premed student interrupting her future plans -rather than be wheelchair bound the rest of her life, Carlisle opts to end her own life.
The relationship between our leading couple is one of immediate attraction but Carlisle doesn’t do relationships or love knowing she won’t be around long enough for anyone to care. Mateo is a young man, consumed with guilt, over the death of his sister, and sees Carlisle’s choice as selfish and wrong. When an opportunity presents itself for surgery, Carlisle knows the results may not be the happily ever after everyone had hoped.
The world building follows the relationship, friendships, and choices presented for a young woman whose life is fragile and precarious. There are moments of heartbreak and personal betrayal; romance and love; moving forward and letting go. Robin Covington isn’t afraid to tackle the issues- what would you do in the same situation?
Copy supplied by Netgalley
www.thereadingcafe.com
ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date May 11, 2015
Letting go never felt so good.
Carlisle Queen is dying and no one knows it.
Burying the pain of losing her friends and her professional swimming career in a terrorist attack, America’s former sweetheart dulls her pain with drugs, pills and parties. The bomb left her with more than nightmares; shrapnel is lodged in her back and inching closer to her spinal cord. When the doctors tell her paralysis is inevitable, she decides to take her own life rather than face a lifetime in a wheelchair.
Mateo Butler isn’t anyone’s hero.
Reeling from the death of his little sister and his own cowardice, he spends his nights partying and his days ignoring the medical school acceptance letters and his parents’ concerned phone calls. Just a couple of months from graduation, he’s facing a future filled with shame and regret. The last thing he needs is to meet the woman who compels him to be a better man.
Can they save each other?
When Carlisle and Mateo meet, the chemistry between them is combustible. They play, party and hide their true selves until one night turns their lust into something more…something real. As secrets are revealed and walls collapse, what they were and what they might become doesn’t matter as much as who they are together. When the choice comes down to life or death, can love be their salvation?
•••••••••••
REVIEW: SALVATION is the second installment in Robin Covington’s new adult, contemporary Nashville Nights romance series. This is college students Mateo Butler and Olympic gold medalist for swimming Carlisle Queen’s storyline. SALVATION can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Some of the previous storyline characters play a small secondary and supporting role in the novel.
Told from alternating first person points of view (Carlisle and Mateo) SALVATION follows the building relationship and fall out between Carlisle Queen and Mateo Butler. Carlisle barely survived a terrorist bomb that killed her best friend and boyfriend Aaron, but in the ensuing time, our heroine has had a difficult time with recovery and grief. The doctors were unable to remove all of the shrapnel that is slowly edging towards her spine leaving Carlisle in constant pain and wondering when the her time will end. Hiding her pain with drugs and sex, Carlisle targets Mateo Butler, her Spanish TA, as her next fix and conquest. But things don’t go according to plan when Carlisle begins to fall for the sexy premed student interrupting her future plans -rather than be wheelchair bound the rest of her life, Carlisle opts to end her own life.
The relationship between our leading couple is one of immediate attraction but Carlisle doesn’t do relationships or love knowing she won’t be around long enough for anyone to care. Mateo is a young man, consumed with guilt, over the death of his sister, and sees Carlisle’s choice as selfish and wrong. When an opportunity presents itself for surgery, Carlisle knows the results may not be the happily ever after everyone had hoped.
The world building follows the relationship, friendships, and choices presented for a young woman whose life is fragile and precarious. There are moments of heartbreak and personal betrayal; romance and love; moving forward and letting go. Robin Covington isn’t afraid to tackle the issues- what would you do in the same situation?
Copy supplied by Netgalley
www.thereadingcafe.com
May 15, 2015
This is not my first trip to Nashville considering I’ve lived around it my entire life but it is the first time I’ve read Author Robin Covington’s Nashville Nights series. I can tell you now that I will be revisiting Covington’s series as much as possible. Salvation is an intense and powerful novel that gripped me from page one and played with my emotions until the very end. AND when I say that Ms. Covington played with my emotions I mean it in a totally wicked hot and sassy sweet type of way.
If you read the synopsis you know the subject matter of Salvation is serious. Carlisle Queen was an Olympic athlete before bombers took away her hope for the future as she watched the man she loved die. She was left severely injured with a diagnosis that would leave her in a wheelchair or dead. As the novel begins Carlisle has planned to commit suicide before the left over shrapnel does it for her. Her love interest Mateo is also dealing with loss and a life-altering decision.
Carlisle and Mateo have an undeniable chemistry! Their relationship is so far past hot and the burn is so good. If I thought I would find my Mateo I would run downtown now! Carlisle thinks Mateo is going to be a one-night-stand but he wants so much more. As they both get to know each other and share the secrets they hold deep they are forced to reevaluate their thinking. This is a couple that I would stand up and cheer for. There is only one thing that kept me from making Salvation a recommended read. Nope, I’m not sharing that part because it is a small thing.
Salvation is a fantastic read! So fantastic that I couldn’t stop reading once I began. I am officially attached to all of the secondary characters as well. Especially, Carlisle’s saucy friend Livvie, she is hysterical and Zane the panty-collecting musician. I hope to read more about them in the future!
Salvation means preservation or deliverance from harm. Robin Covington’s Salvation delivers her characters to their rightful place on the page; where they can evoke hope and love among readers. If you love romance look no further than Salvation.
Reviewed by Miranda for Joyfully Reviewed
Link: http://bit.ly/1H746so
If you read the synopsis you know the subject matter of Salvation is serious. Carlisle Queen was an Olympic athlete before bombers took away her hope for the future as she watched the man she loved die. She was left severely injured with a diagnosis that would leave her in a wheelchair or dead. As the novel begins Carlisle has planned to commit suicide before the left over shrapnel does it for her. Her love interest Mateo is also dealing with loss and a life-altering decision.
Carlisle and Mateo have an undeniable chemistry! Their relationship is so far past hot and the burn is so good. If I thought I would find my Mateo I would run downtown now! Carlisle thinks Mateo is going to be a one-night-stand but he wants so much more. As they both get to know each other and share the secrets they hold deep they are forced to reevaluate their thinking. This is a couple that I would stand up and cheer for. There is only one thing that kept me from making Salvation a recommended read. Nope, I’m not sharing that part because it is a small thing.
Salvation is a fantastic read! So fantastic that I couldn’t stop reading once I began. I am officially attached to all of the secondary characters as well. Especially, Carlisle’s saucy friend Livvie, she is hysterical and Zane the panty-collecting musician. I hope to read more about them in the future!
Salvation means preservation or deliverance from harm. Robin Covington’s Salvation delivers her characters to their rightful place on the page; where they can evoke hope and love among readers. If you love romance look no further than Salvation.
Reviewed by Miranda for Joyfully Reviewed
Link: http://bit.ly/1H746so
May 10, 2015
A successful Olympic swimmer, Carlisle Queen was seriously injured in a terrorist attack at an Olympic village which killed other athletes, including her fiancé. Though she is now walking again, she knows that shrapnel is still lodged in her back near her spinal column - and moving closer - so that paralysis or death is forecast for her in the near future. She’s determined to live life to the full but not to make any close relationships ever again, they are too risky and it hurts too much when fate tears you apart from those you love. She’s partying hard, having one night stands and avoiding any commitments, planning to commit suicide rather than face life in a wheelchair.
Mateo Butler lost his sister to cancer. After she refused to continue treatment he fought with her and never had chance to make up with her again as she died whilst he partied to forget what was happening to her. He’s still partying to forget.
The two were instantly attracted when they met at the beginning go the school year. Now, almost the end of the school year later, Carlisle decides to have a one night stand with Mateo. Will that be enough for them? Will they reveal their secrets to each other? Will their love stand a chance?
This is a really dramatic story, full of teenage angst, medical drama and conflicting emotions. Decisions are made that impact on potential relationships, you’re never quite sure what will go wrong next! A real roller coaster ride filled with unexpected twists, turns, steep hills and sudden drops. A great story but I admit to being old fashioned and there was a little too much graphic description of sexual action for my tastes, otherwise it could so easily have been a 5* review from me. As the blurb for the book says, “When the choice comes down to life of death, can love be their salvation?” You’ll just have to read the book to find out!
Thanks to the author, publishers and NetGalley, too, for letting me read an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Mateo Butler lost his sister to cancer. After she refused to continue treatment he fought with her and never had chance to make up with her again as she died whilst he partied to forget what was happening to her. He’s still partying to forget.
The two were instantly attracted when they met at the beginning go the school year. Now, almost the end of the school year later, Carlisle decides to have a one night stand with Mateo. Will that be enough for them? Will they reveal their secrets to each other? Will their love stand a chance?
This is a really dramatic story, full of teenage angst, medical drama and conflicting emotions. Decisions are made that impact on potential relationships, you’re never quite sure what will go wrong next! A real roller coaster ride filled with unexpected twists, turns, steep hills and sudden drops. A great story but I admit to being old fashioned and there was a little too much graphic description of sexual action for my tastes, otherwise it could so easily have been a 5* review from me. As the blurb for the book says, “When the choice comes down to life of death, can love be their salvation?” You’ll just have to read the book to find out!
Thanks to the author, publishers and NetGalley, too, for letting me read an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
May 11, 2015
My Review:
Okay, read that story description...this is not an easy book, especially at first. Carlisle was on top of the world when she was a victim of a terrorist attack at the Olympic village. Her boyfriend, and the love of her life, was standing next to her and died in her arms. Since then, her life has gone to crap. She has this huge specter of death hanging over her. She has metal embedded in her spine which causes awful pain and will eventually kill her or paralyze her. She self-medicates and knows it's not fair to anyone else to make connections, so she keeps everyone at arms length. She has very strict rules for her interpersonal relationships. That works until she finally gives into Mateo. She only gives into him planning for a single night...he should be on his way to medical school soon
Even though neither of them want it, things between them get pretty serious quickly, but she's not telling Mateo what's really going on. There is a ton of emotion in this book and for a while, I was worried that this was going to be one of those authors who likes to torment her readers with awful, horrible endings. (This is the first book I've read by this author.) Luckily that isn't the case, but she definitely sends her characters through the wringer over the course of the book. Translation...it was really good and angst-filled.
The story line was creative and very well-written. I loved both the characters and their chemistry. Now I need to check out the rest of the series, although all the books work perfectly well as stand-alone. But the series is FILLED with great characters and I want to read more.
I received a complimentary copy of this book in return for an honest review.
Okay, read that story description...this is not an easy book, especially at first. Carlisle was on top of the world when she was a victim of a terrorist attack at the Olympic village. Her boyfriend, and the love of her life, was standing next to her and died in her arms. Since then, her life has gone to crap. She has this huge specter of death hanging over her. She has metal embedded in her spine which causes awful pain and will eventually kill her or paralyze her. She self-medicates and knows it's not fair to anyone else to make connections, so she keeps everyone at arms length. She has very strict rules for her interpersonal relationships. That works until she finally gives into Mateo. She only gives into him planning for a single night...he should be on his way to medical school soon
Even though neither of them want it, things between them get pretty serious quickly, but she's not telling Mateo what's really going on. There is a ton of emotion in this book and for a while, I was worried that this was going to be one of those authors who likes to torment her readers with awful, horrible endings. (This is the first book I've read by this author.) Luckily that isn't the case, but she definitely sends her characters through the wringer over the course of the book. Translation...it was really good and angst-filled.
The story line was creative and very well-written. I loved both the characters and their chemistry. Now I need to check out the rest of the series, although all the books work perfectly well as stand-alone. But the series is FILLED with great characters and I want to read more.
I received a complimentary copy of this book in return for an honest review.
May 15, 2015
5 Stars!
I loved this book. Oh man the feels! Prepare yourself. True to this author's fashion, she has given us a masterpiece in the Nashville Nights series. This book was amazing. It was sweet, sexy, fun, emotional, and has a beautiful love story full of grief and heartbreak. This book was push boundaries and make you think outside of the box. This book does deal with sensitive subjects so be warned.
This is Carlisle and Mateo's story. Carlisle is living her life day to day after suffering a tragedy that broke her emotionally and physically. With little options left, she has a plan she is following and that entails no attachments. Too bad her heart sits safely with Mateo, the sexy man who won't give up. Mateo suffered tragedy in is life and has been a shell of himself since then while grieving and carrying the burden of guilt. He wants Carlisle and he will have her. Secrets, lies, and decisions... these two will walk the hard road to their happy ending.
Oh Mateo... so thoughtful, loyal, compassionate, sweet, kind, and understanding. The man stole my heart from the beginning. He was so upfront and in your face with Carlisle, pushing her when she needed it. And Carlisle, while my heart bled for her ad it truly did, I wanted to smack her a few times. I cannot imagine going through what she did or making the decision she did. I was rooting for these two even when it started to look impossible for these two.
I highly recommend this book!
Review Blitz---> http://reneeentress.blogspot.com/2015...
I loved this book. Oh man the feels! Prepare yourself. True to this author's fashion, she has given us a masterpiece in the Nashville Nights series. This book was amazing. It was sweet, sexy, fun, emotional, and has a beautiful love story full of grief and heartbreak. This book was push boundaries and make you think outside of the box. This book does deal with sensitive subjects so be warned.
This is Carlisle and Mateo's story. Carlisle is living her life day to day after suffering a tragedy that broke her emotionally and physically. With little options left, she has a plan she is following and that entails no attachments. Too bad her heart sits safely with Mateo, the sexy man who won't give up. Mateo suffered tragedy in is life and has been a shell of himself since then while grieving and carrying the burden of guilt. He wants Carlisle and he will have her. Secrets, lies, and decisions... these two will walk the hard road to their happy ending.
Oh Mateo... so thoughtful, loyal, compassionate, sweet, kind, and understanding. The man stole my heart from the beginning. He was so upfront and in your face with Carlisle, pushing her when she needed it. And Carlisle, while my heart bled for her ad it truly did, I wanted to smack her a few times. I cannot imagine going through what she did or making the decision she did. I was rooting for these two even when it started to look impossible for these two.
I highly recommend this book!
Review Blitz---> http://reneeentress.blogspot.com/2015...
May 19, 2015
Carlisle was a gold medal winning olympic swimmer whose life was changed by a bombing that killed her lover and injured her in a way that changed her life. She doesn't date or get close to anyone because she knows something that she knows would ruin any relationship. Mateo has been attracted to Carlisle since she first walked into the class where he was the TA. He isn't relationship guy either, but when Carlisle makes it clear that she is ready to be his for a night he isn't going to pass that up for anything. Their chemistry is explosive and quickly both find themselves in a much more difficult situation than they intended.
This book is the second in the series, but could easily be read as a stand-alone. Carlisle is an interesting character and it was difficult to watch her face so many difficult questions and choices. She is strong, straight-forward, and someone I wanted to see find some happiness. Mateo is a very likable guy as well, and the chemistry between him and Carlisle is very hot. Watching them both struggle so hard with their own past traumas and current life situations was really difficult at time and very emotional. I was really hoping that both of them would find a way to be happy in their lives and relationships. One of the neat things about this book is that it is a pretty short read, but there is no shortage of character development. I noticed the same thing with the first book in this series, and that has made this author someone I will continue to seek out in the future. 3.5 stars
*An ARC was provided in exchange for an honest review
This book is the second in the series, but could easily be read as a stand-alone. Carlisle is an interesting character and it was difficult to watch her face so many difficult questions and choices. She is strong, straight-forward, and someone I wanted to see find some happiness. Mateo is a very likable guy as well, and the chemistry between him and Carlisle is very hot. Watching them both struggle so hard with their own past traumas and current life situations was really difficult at time and very emotional. I was really hoping that both of them would find a way to be happy in their lives and relationships. One of the neat things about this book is that it is a pretty short read, but there is no shortage of character development. I noticed the same thing with the first book in this series, and that has made this author someone I will continue to seek out in the future. 3.5 stars
*An ARC was provided in exchange for an honest review
May 17, 2015
First: While this is the second book in the Nashville Nights series, you do not have to read book #1 before starting this one. (although I highly suggest you do!) Both books are stand-alone stories, written in first person POV, with a clear heading with the switch between both characters.
This is a well written story of two damaged characters: Carlisle, whose problems are physical and life-threatening, as well as emotional, and Mateo, who battles the guilt over his late sister, and the decision of whether or not to apply to medical school. I won't go into a breakdown of the story, you've seen that in numerous reviews already. I will say that I thoroughly enjoyed the book and highly recommend it, and I'm anxiously looking forward to the 3rd in the series.
Well done, Ms. Covington!
I was generously provided an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review
This is a well written story of two damaged characters: Carlisle, whose problems are physical and life-threatening, as well as emotional, and Mateo, who battles the guilt over his late sister, and the decision of whether or not to apply to medical school. I won't go into a breakdown of the story, you've seen that in numerous reviews already. I will say that I thoroughly enjoyed the book and highly recommend it, and I'm anxiously looking forward to the 3rd in the series.
Well done, Ms. Covington!
I was generously provided an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review
May 15, 2015
Carlisle knows how to make a man's ego bigger, "you’re so big,” she murmurs, her voice a deeper, huskier version of her usual tone. I like the way she says my name. “Mateo, I want this in my mouth. Can I?" Before his woman leaves he likes to make sure she's experienced everything he has to offer, "you can’t go until I show you my mad oral skills. You won’t regret it." Teo he's so playful at times, "Jesus, mom. Did you have to make her cry?” I ask, dodging my mother’s swat towards my head." He knows how to give his woman a compliment, "you’re just the most effing beautiful thing I have ever seen in my whole life and I can’t stop looking at you.” I grin, unapologetic in my adoration." I enjoyed this book I loved these two.
May 21, 2015
Short review is live over on my blog in the book news post... http://wp.me/p4LR6R-2kI
December 16, 2019
Emma Carlisle was a world class twelve-time gold swimming medalist, until she and ten others were injured and twenty-two other fatalities, were victims of a bombing, including her boyfriend, Aaron, on their way to dinner.
Having sustained multiple physical and emotional injuries, she’s been diagnosed with imminent paralysis and ultimate death, unless the imbedded shrapnel can be successfully removed.
Her ‘one and done’ motto is undermined by Mateo in the crosshairs of their attraction. Both of them, emotionally fragile, she reconsiders in light of the opportunity to undergo surgery.
During her rehabilitation, she is overwhelmed which delays her progress. She makes the decision to go away and breaks Mateo’s heart in the process.
She returns ten months later, with impaired mobility and out of pique, hurt and betrayal, he blurts out that he is love with Anne, the girl he’s involved with...this is a story of endurance and survival.
Having sustained multiple physical and emotional injuries, she’s been diagnosed with imminent paralysis and ultimate death, unless the imbedded shrapnel can be successfully removed.
Her ‘one and done’ motto is undermined by Mateo in the crosshairs of their attraction. Both of them, emotionally fragile, she reconsiders in light of the opportunity to undergo surgery.
During her rehabilitation, she is overwhelmed which delays her progress. She makes the decision to go away and breaks Mateo’s heart in the process.
She returns ten months later, with impaired mobility and out of pique, hurt and betrayal, he blurts out that he is love with Anne, the girl he’s involved with...this is a story of endurance and survival.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 14, 2015
As a reader who loves stories that are realistic in the portrayal of people's pain in real life circumstances I got immediately sucked into this story and its characters who were far from perfect. Ms. Covington takes readers on a gutwrenching rollercoaster ride that has you admiring the main characters one moment and frustrated with them next. While I didn't always agree with their choices I understood why they felt the way they did and managed to put my judgements aside as Ms. Covington's talented storytelling and characterizations had me supporting them warts and all. Readers brave enough to face an emotionally draining but immensely satisfying and realistic tale will want to add this to their bookshelf.
Carlisle was once the Golden Girl of the swim world with an equally perfect teammate and fiancé making her life perfect. In the blink of an eye it was all taken away as a bomb killed her fiancé and friends, leaving her with PTSD and with shrapnel in her back that's left her in extreme pain with the possibility of paralysis or death in her future. As a strong-willed woman who's always been in control of her life these possibilities terrify her and leave suicide her primary goal. Until that time though she's on a path of self-destruction in an attempt to numb both the physical and emotional pain. Sex with no-strings and various drugs have become her constant companion and I hated seeing her fall so low with her pain becoming mine through the vividly detailed inner monologues. Into this darkness though comes the sexy and sweet Mateo, who's dealing with pain of his own, who has her throwing aside all her usual rules when it comes to relationships. Theirs is a rocky journey full of twists and turns that leaves both of them battered, along with readers frustrated, as a big decision by Carlisle leads to even more pain through words said in anger and guilt. It's a true test of their relationship that dimmed my happiness in the story a bit but it's a powerful moment handled with care and realism. With such a scary future before her will Carlisle ultimately embrace the power of love and the support Mateo offers or will she keep heading towards darkness alone? As Carlisle grows stronger throughout the story readers will want to see where she ends up. They'll want to experience the fun and playful banter between her and her non-judgemental friend Livvy. They'll want to blush during the numerous steamy interludes between her and Mateo that took place alongside their growing friendship. Ultimately they'll want to witness the emotional and physical journey of a compelling woman to rebuild her life and herself after losing everything.
Mateo is a fun-loving guy whose popular with the ladies but has been obsessed with Carlisle for the last year despite knowing how messed up she is. He sees her as a challenge but also as a kindred spirit as he's feeling uncertain about his future too. Where once he planned on a medical career with his sister he's now not sure after losing her. With his "white knight" complex, and deepening feelings for her, he becomes invested in Carlisle's future which becomes much rockier once his heart becomes involved. As his guilt over the past reaches the surface, and with Carlisle making choices to keep him from more pain, past and future collide in a true test of their feelings for each other that left me frustrated with both of them. It was a defining moment for both of them that left their future very much in doubt. Mateo's a truly caring man, sexy, with the ability to give as good as he gets when it comes to his witty bantering with Carlisle. Theirs is a scorching connection from the moment they meet with emotions running hot and heavy between them that enhanced the story's overall intensity regarding issues of life and death. As much pain as Carlisle was going through so to was Mateo which had me aching for him and all the dreams he lost as well. Being with Carlisle finally made him deal with the past and he ultimately came out stronger despite all the pain along the way.
While these characters don't always act in the expected ways you can't help but be drawn to them as they realistically dealt with the pain of their pasts and uncertain futures. They're real with real emotions and sides to them that aren't always sunny. Ms. Covington's talent has you rooting for them despite it all as readers join them in their rocky road to an ultimately uplifting, if still uncertain, conclusion. Carlisle's issues were gently handled but vividly depicted and as a quadriplegic I found her concerns especially relatable though I wouldn't make the same choices. Along with these compelling main characters came a reintroduction to characters from the previous series installment with the ever-supportive Max. Things were also set up for the next installment with some enticing moments towards the end of the story with Mateo's friend, the fun and sexy Zane. The Nashville Nights series continues to put reader's through the wringer with this installment that's heartbreaking, sexy, and powerful, leaving an emotional impact long after the final page is turned and I recommend it to readers who want style and substance.
Carlisle was once the Golden Girl of the swim world with an equally perfect teammate and fiancé making her life perfect. In the blink of an eye it was all taken away as a bomb killed her fiancé and friends, leaving her with PTSD and with shrapnel in her back that's left her in extreme pain with the possibility of paralysis or death in her future. As a strong-willed woman who's always been in control of her life these possibilities terrify her and leave suicide her primary goal. Until that time though she's on a path of self-destruction in an attempt to numb both the physical and emotional pain. Sex with no-strings and various drugs have become her constant companion and I hated seeing her fall so low with her pain becoming mine through the vividly detailed inner monologues. Into this darkness though comes the sexy and sweet Mateo, who's dealing with pain of his own, who has her throwing aside all her usual rules when it comes to relationships. Theirs is a rocky journey full of twists and turns that leaves both of them battered, along with readers frustrated, as a big decision by Carlisle leads to even more pain through words said in anger and guilt. It's a true test of their relationship that dimmed my happiness in the story a bit but it's a powerful moment handled with care and realism. With such a scary future before her will Carlisle ultimately embrace the power of love and the support Mateo offers or will she keep heading towards darkness alone? As Carlisle grows stronger throughout the story readers will want to see where she ends up. They'll want to experience the fun and playful banter between her and her non-judgemental friend Livvy. They'll want to blush during the numerous steamy interludes between her and Mateo that took place alongside their growing friendship. Ultimately they'll want to witness the emotional and physical journey of a compelling woman to rebuild her life and herself after losing everything.
Mateo is a fun-loving guy whose popular with the ladies but has been obsessed with Carlisle for the last year despite knowing how messed up she is. He sees her as a challenge but also as a kindred spirit as he's feeling uncertain about his future too. Where once he planned on a medical career with his sister he's now not sure after losing her. With his "white knight" complex, and deepening feelings for her, he becomes invested in Carlisle's future which becomes much rockier once his heart becomes involved. As his guilt over the past reaches the surface, and with Carlisle making choices to keep him from more pain, past and future collide in a true test of their feelings for each other that left me frustrated with both of them. It was a defining moment for both of them that left their future very much in doubt. Mateo's a truly caring man, sexy, with the ability to give as good as he gets when it comes to his witty bantering with Carlisle. Theirs is a scorching connection from the moment they meet with emotions running hot and heavy between them that enhanced the story's overall intensity regarding issues of life and death. As much pain as Carlisle was going through so to was Mateo which had me aching for him and all the dreams he lost as well. Being with Carlisle finally made him deal with the past and he ultimately came out stronger despite all the pain along the way.
While these characters don't always act in the expected ways you can't help but be drawn to them as they realistically dealt with the pain of their pasts and uncertain futures. They're real with real emotions and sides to them that aren't always sunny. Ms. Covington's talent has you rooting for them despite it all as readers join them in their rocky road to an ultimately uplifting, if still uncertain, conclusion. Carlisle's issues were gently handled but vividly depicted and as a quadriplegic I found her concerns especially relatable though I wouldn't make the same choices. Along with these compelling main characters came a reintroduction to characters from the previous series installment with the ever-supportive Max. Things were also set up for the next installment with some enticing moments towards the end of the story with Mateo's friend, the fun and sexy Zane. The Nashville Nights series continues to put reader's through the wringer with this installment that's heartbreaking, sexy, and powerful, leaving an emotional impact long after the final page is turned and I recommend it to readers who want style and substance.
May 12, 2015
Originally Reviewed on Bewitching Bibliophile
Why won't Robin leave my emotions alone?!!! Just about every book she writes, she demands that I feel then jerks my feelings around, squeezes out some of my tears then drops me off. Sigh... so when can I get the third one??
I loved this book because the topic it took on, I especially loved the rawness of the characters' emotions. And their reactions to the situation, and the twist and the ending, yeah I just loved it all. Carlisle is an amazing complex character, she was raw & brutal and still a coward, but I emphasize with her and I loved her I understood her and I totally get her reasoning.
Teo is awesome he truly tries but he's completely unprepared for Carlisle. He never saw her coming and when she hits, his world is never the same. The two of them have been circling each other for a while, and with Teo set to graduate in a few days, & the summer coming up Carlisle feels she's safe to get what she wants and get out. She isn't prepared for how much Teo makes her burn, challenges her, makes her laugh and just genuinely makes her feel damn good. I absolutely loved her roommate and best friend, who totally made her laugh, loved her and didn't really judge her, (even when I did). At the beginning of the story for me Carlisle wasn't a likeable character because of her personal choices, I'm not a fan of drugging your problems away, & I get why she did it, and why for her it was necessary, but I still believe it's a cowards way of handling life; it's all going to be there when you come down from your high. I felt for her and as the story progressed Carlisle grew on me and as she opened her eyes to the world again, so my eyes were opened to her world and her pain. ( I still don't believe in using drugs but I see why she did it).
I liked the semi-ending we got. Because for me that was good, they were better but it's good that they acknowledge that it isn't always perfect and it doesn't always work out just because you love each other. I really loved the research done and shown in the novel. The clear and well understood changes they would each have to embrace. And the challenges ahead were very daunting.
This isn't my first book dealing with a lead character who is disabled, Catherine Anderson does wonderful romances where they are characters that are physically disabled in some way. This however was the first that explained her disability affected her life, her relationships, her psyche as well as intercourse. Some of the other tales just brush over it,& I loved that Robin wasn't shy about it, she talked about the differences and how it changes, I even learnt a thing or three.
Matteo and Carlisle are written in a fun way, their conversations just drew you in and I know I laughed a few times, I so could hear her bad accent and it made me laugh and cringe to think about. I loved their sexy times together, they certainly knew how to be inventive, and as Matteo says, he's very creative with the right stimulation.
Seeing that totally made me love this story even more than I did. I was engrossed and enjoyed that others within the books were vocal about their doubts as if they could read some of my thoughts. And that ending?? Those last few chapters?? Maaaan listen. Yeah I can't wait for book three.
It's going to be pretty darn interesting.
★★★★1/2☆
Have you read the series?? What about book 1?? I'll have my review up tomorrow for it. Share your thoughts down below, and I'll catch you on the next blog on the tour. Don't forget to share the love with the author and of course the other bloggers on tour.
Happy Reading
Why won't Robin leave my emotions alone?!!! Just about every book she writes, she demands that I feel then jerks my feelings around, squeezes out some of my tears then drops me off. Sigh... so when can I get the third one??
I loved this book because the topic it took on, I especially loved the rawness of the characters' emotions. And their reactions to the situation, and the twist and the ending, yeah I just loved it all. Carlisle is an amazing complex character, she was raw & brutal and still a coward, but I emphasize with her and I loved her I understood her and I totally get her reasoning.
Teo is awesome he truly tries but he's completely unprepared for Carlisle. He never saw her coming and when she hits, his world is never the same. The two of them have been circling each other for a while, and with Teo set to graduate in a few days, & the summer coming up Carlisle feels she's safe to get what she wants and get out. She isn't prepared for how much Teo makes her burn, challenges her, makes her laugh and just genuinely makes her feel damn good. I absolutely loved her roommate and best friend, who totally made her laugh, loved her and didn't really judge her, (even when I did). At the beginning of the story for me Carlisle wasn't a likeable character because of her personal choices, I'm not a fan of drugging your problems away, & I get why she did it, and why for her it was necessary, but I still believe it's a cowards way of handling life; it's all going to be there when you come down from your high. I felt for her and as the story progressed Carlisle grew on me and as she opened her eyes to the world again, so my eyes were opened to her world and her pain. ( I still don't believe in using drugs but I see why she did it).
I liked the semi-ending we got. Because for me that was good, they were better but it's good that they acknowledge that it isn't always perfect and it doesn't always work out just because you love each other. I really loved the research done and shown in the novel. The clear and well understood changes they would each have to embrace. And the challenges ahead were very daunting.
This isn't my first book dealing with a lead character who is disabled, Catherine Anderson does wonderful romances where they are characters that are physically disabled in some way. This however was the first that explained her disability affected her life, her relationships, her psyche as well as intercourse. Some of the other tales just brush over it,& I loved that Robin wasn't shy about it, she talked about the differences and how it changes, I even learnt a thing or three.
Matteo and Carlisle are written in a fun way, their conversations just drew you in and I know I laughed a few times, I so could hear her bad accent and it made me laugh and cringe to think about. I loved their sexy times together, they certainly knew how to be inventive, and as Matteo says, he's very creative with the right stimulation.
Seeing that totally made me love this story even more than I did. I was engrossed and enjoyed that others within the books were vocal about their doubts as if they could read some of my thoughts. And that ending?? Those last few chapters?? Maaaan listen. Yeah I can't wait for book three.
It's going to be pretty darn interesting.
★★★★1/2☆
Have you read the series?? What about book 1?? I'll have my review up tomorrow for it. Share your thoughts down below, and I'll catch you on the next blog on the tour. Don't forget to share the love with the author and of course the other bloggers on tour.
Happy Reading
May 21, 2015
Check out my full review on Bookaholics Not-So-Anonymous.
Note: This ebook was provided by Barclay Publicity in exchange for an honest review.
My expectations for this second installment in the Nashville Nights series were high, what with how much I loved the first book, but goodness, Robin Covington took a route I didn't see coming with Carlisle Queen and Mateo Butler's love story in Salvation and I just become so invested with these two seemingly rudderless souls. No one could touch Carlisle in the water, winning medal after medal in swimming competitions, but after losing her beloved boyfriend and suffering through numerous injuries and even more surgeries, she refuses to go anywhere near a pool and numbs her pain with drugs, both the synthetic and herbal varieties. Mateo lost the person closest to him--his sister--when she chose to end her life because of a medical diagnosis and since then, what was once a clear road map of his life has become out of focus and confusing, leaving him unsure of what to do and where to go next.
I liked that Carlisle and Mateo were already acquaintances and didn't have to go through the whole first meeting scene, giving the beginning section of the book an already different feel. There are some parts of the story that did go as I predicted, but the parts that didn't caught me unaware and I found myself unprepared for where Carlisle and Mateo veered off to, leaving me with a heart squeezing for what these two had to face as a couple. There was a lot of angst going on, especially on Carlisle's end, and I may not have fully agreed with some of the choices they made, but goodness, how could I not root for these two to get to their much deserved happily ever after? Even with all the drama, the story never felt melodramatic or overly angsty, because the emotions Carlisle and Mateo were feeling came off as real, something we could be able to have some amount of understanding and empathy toward.
As was the case with book one, I so appreciated the best friends and family these lead characters had, because they provided even more life and balance to the story and weren't simply decorative. While Mateo is cousins with Max Butler, the male lead character from Temptation, and he and Kit Landry do make appearances here, this can totally be read as a standalone. Though, if you've read enough of my reviews that have to do with books that are part of a series, you should already expect me to suggest that you read the books in order. They're both really good books so it'll be time well spent on your part. Also, the third book involves Kit's sister and Mateo's best friend, so I'm thinking my suggestion is a pretty good one, don't you think? With Salvation, my love affair with Robin Covington's books continues, and I bought the book after reading the ARC. This is another 2015 favorite and five-star read. ♥
Note: This ebook was provided by Barclay Publicity in exchange for an honest review.
My expectations for this second installment in the Nashville Nights series were high, what with how much I loved the first book, but goodness, Robin Covington took a route I didn't see coming with Carlisle Queen and Mateo Butler's love story in Salvation and I just become so invested with these two seemingly rudderless souls. No one could touch Carlisle in the water, winning medal after medal in swimming competitions, but after losing her beloved boyfriend and suffering through numerous injuries and even more surgeries, she refuses to go anywhere near a pool and numbs her pain with drugs, both the synthetic and herbal varieties. Mateo lost the person closest to him--his sister--when she chose to end her life because of a medical diagnosis and since then, what was once a clear road map of his life has become out of focus and confusing, leaving him unsure of what to do and where to go next.
I liked that Carlisle and Mateo were already acquaintances and didn't have to go through the whole first meeting scene, giving the beginning section of the book an already different feel. There are some parts of the story that did go as I predicted, but the parts that didn't caught me unaware and I found myself unprepared for where Carlisle and Mateo veered off to, leaving me with a heart squeezing for what these two had to face as a couple. There was a lot of angst going on, especially on Carlisle's end, and I may not have fully agreed with some of the choices they made, but goodness, how could I not root for these two to get to their much deserved happily ever after? Even with all the drama, the story never felt melodramatic or overly angsty, because the emotions Carlisle and Mateo were feeling came off as real, something we could be able to have some amount of understanding and empathy toward.
As was the case with book one, I so appreciated the best friends and family these lead characters had, because they provided even more life and balance to the story and weren't simply decorative. While Mateo is cousins with Max Butler, the male lead character from Temptation, and he and Kit Landry do make appearances here, this can totally be read as a standalone. Though, if you've read enough of my reviews that have to do with books that are part of a series, you should already expect me to suggest that you read the books in order. They're both really good books so it'll be time well spent on your part. Also, the third book involves Kit's sister and Mateo's best friend, so I'm thinking my suggestion is a pretty good one, don't you think? With Salvation, my love affair with Robin Covington's books continues, and I bought the book after reading the ARC. This is another 2015 favorite and five-star read. ♥
May 14, 2015
This is a beautiful tale of two people who had their lives all planned out. They thought they knew where they were going and worked hard to get there until tragedy strikes. How do you switch directions? How do you face a life that looks nothing like your dream and seems so unfair? Carlisle was America’s sweetheart. She was an Olympic swimmer winning 12 medals alongside fellow swimmer and the love of her life, Aaron. Until terrorists blew up the athletes village, killing many of her friends and Aaron. She survived but the shrapnel left in her body could kill her at any time and causes constant physical pain. Swimming was her passion, and like a musician can hear music in their head, Carlisle could hear/feel the water in her mind. But the accident killed that too so she pushes herself to the edge in a different way now with drugs, pills and parties. Smart, sexy, handsome, and compassionate Mateo dreamed of becoming a doctor and opening a medical clinic with his sister to help people. When tragedy strikes, Mateo is left wondering if he is good enough and if it was really ever his dream. He also gets lost in the party scene and a different girl every night. Mateo and Carlisle have circled each other all year thru two semesters of Spanish. It is the end of the school year and they feel they can have their one quick hook-up together with no attachments. But when two broken, stubborn people with the definition of chemistry finally come together can they ever stay apart?
“I don’t stay over. I don’t do beds. I don’t date,” I shrug at his raised eyebrow, smiling to ease the
sting. “Those are my rules.”
“Well, when you put it that way, you’re almost challenging me to get you to break them,” He says
Their relationship, once started, excels fast and is hot and combustible. But can it be maintained when two people have so many walls built to protect them from the pain of losing again or when life isn't done throwing them curve-balls? Can they love each other enough to be honest and not hide the hard truths, thinking they are protecting each other? This is a roller coaster ride of deep heartfelt emotion with well developed, honest, and authentic characters. I love Carlisle and Mateo, they are smart, funny and charming. The strength they have to overcome the twists and turns that life throws at them is extraordinary. This is a journey that had me laughing, and crying and feeling every struggle and every success with them. The secondary characters are all wonderful additions and makes this story so enjoyable. I loved the pace of this book so much that I couldn't put it down. If you like a romance that makes you feel every emotion with wonderfully genuine and believable characters then you will love this book! This is the second book in the Nashville Nights series but can be read as a stand-alone. I can’t wait to read the other books in this series.
“I don’t stay over. I don’t do beds. I don’t date,” I shrug at his raised eyebrow, smiling to ease the
sting. “Those are my rules.”
“Well, when you put it that way, you’re almost challenging me to get you to break them,” He says
Their relationship, once started, excels fast and is hot and combustible. But can it be maintained when two people have so many walls built to protect them from the pain of losing again or when life isn't done throwing them curve-balls? Can they love each other enough to be honest and not hide the hard truths, thinking they are protecting each other? This is a roller coaster ride of deep heartfelt emotion with well developed, honest, and authentic characters. I love Carlisle and Mateo, they are smart, funny and charming. The strength they have to overcome the twists and turns that life throws at them is extraordinary. This is a journey that had me laughing, and crying and feeling every struggle and every success with them. The secondary characters are all wonderful additions and makes this story so enjoyable. I loved the pace of this book so much that I couldn't put it down. If you like a romance that makes you feel every emotion with wonderfully genuine and believable characters then you will love this book! This is the second book in the Nashville Nights series but can be read as a stand-alone. I can’t wait to read the other books in this series.
May 19, 2015
Dreams…..it’s the light at the end of the tunnel. The force that drives you when you can’t move another muscle. What happens when your dreams are shattered into a million pieces? When the path you thought you were on breaks right before your eyes. How do you pick up and go on???
Carlisle Queen knows a thing or two about having life by the wings. Her dreams of becoming an Olympic swimmer came true when she became a champion on the US team. Nothing could have prepared her for an event that would alter her entire life. A terrorist attack on the Olympic games left Carlisle with severe injuries. Now she lives in constant pain and injuries that can ultimately kill her. A special surgery can rid Carlisle’s body of the shrapnel that is still lodged in her body. This surgery also has the potential to leave her in a wheelchair for the rest of her life. Deciding that is not an option, Carlisle decides to live life without regrets….partying, random hook-ups, and no deep connections. After all, its harder to end your own life when you have so many attachments.
Mateo Butler has always dreamt of going to medical school. Everything in his life has lead up to this. Now that dream doesn’t seem all that appealing. Mateo and his sister talked about opening a clinic together. Then his sister was diagnosed with cancer. Instead of living what little time she had left at the mercy of her illness, Mateo’s sister took matters into her own hands and decided when her life would end….on her own terms. Mateo couldn’t accept that decision. He turned his back on his sister and has regretted that decision every day since then. Now his dream seems unimportant and Mateo has taken to partying and sleeping with various women to pass the time. The future is uncertain and quickly heading towards ‘decision time’.
After a lot of heated sexual tension, Mateo and Carlisle finally act on their attraction. What should have been a one night stand has quickly turned into something deeper for them both. Neither wants to believe that they could have found ‘the one’. Demons from their past will force them to face their fears and the future. Where will it all lead? Is there any hope for two people with such damaged pasts?
Wow!! Salvation literally had me hooked on every word!! This unique romance takes readers on a journey that they will take with them long after the final chapter. It is gut wrenching….it leaves you thinking about everything that people take for granted. Without giving anything away, all I can say is READ THIS BOOK!! Robin Covington has totally outdone herself with Salvation!!
Carlisle Queen knows a thing or two about having life by the wings. Her dreams of becoming an Olympic swimmer came true when she became a champion on the US team. Nothing could have prepared her for an event that would alter her entire life. A terrorist attack on the Olympic games left Carlisle with severe injuries. Now she lives in constant pain and injuries that can ultimately kill her. A special surgery can rid Carlisle’s body of the shrapnel that is still lodged in her body. This surgery also has the potential to leave her in a wheelchair for the rest of her life. Deciding that is not an option, Carlisle decides to live life without regrets….partying, random hook-ups, and no deep connections. After all, its harder to end your own life when you have so many attachments.
Mateo Butler has always dreamt of going to medical school. Everything in his life has lead up to this. Now that dream doesn’t seem all that appealing. Mateo and his sister talked about opening a clinic together. Then his sister was diagnosed with cancer. Instead of living what little time she had left at the mercy of her illness, Mateo’s sister took matters into her own hands and decided when her life would end….on her own terms. Mateo couldn’t accept that decision. He turned his back on his sister and has regretted that decision every day since then. Now his dream seems unimportant and Mateo has taken to partying and sleeping with various women to pass the time. The future is uncertain and quickly heading towards ‘decision time’.
After a lot of heated sexual tension, Mateo and Carlisle finally act on their attraction. What should have been a one night stand has quickly turned into something deeper for them both. Neither wants to believe that they could have found ‘the one’. Demons from their past will force them to face their fears and the future. Where will it all lead? Is there any hope for two people with such damaged pasts?
Wow!! Salvation literally had me hooked on every word!! This unique romance takes readers on a journey that they will take with them long after the final chapter. It is gut wrenching….it leaves you thinking about everything that people take for granted. Without giving anything away, all I can say is READ THIS BOOK!! Robin Covington has totally outdone herself with Salvation!!
May 10, 2015
We are back in Nashville and it’s never been so good. I absolutely loved this book, the characters and the storyline that had me chuckling, sighing and fighting back tears more than once and at one point made me put it down and have a good sniffle then pick it back up once I got my emotions in check.
Salvation is a book you will be thinking about long after you put it down. From the heroine in Carlisle who I have to say is one of the strongest female characters I’ve read in a long while, to the truly wonderful hero in Mateo, the white knight that pushes his way onto the scene and melts your heart with his acts of selflessness.
Carlisle Queen is beautiful and sexy and funny and seriously f**d up. I should leave her alone but I can’t. Somewhere in the middle of the sex and the drugs and the things that neither of us like to talk about, I started falling for her.
Carlisle was an Olympic athlete injured when a bomb exploded and killed her boyfriend and many friends and is now forced to live with time bomb ticking away in her spine. Shrapnel from the blast will eventually either paralyse her or kill her. So she has a plan to take her own life when the time comes and lives her life accordingly.
Mateo…. Every girl should have a version of you in her life even if only briefly. He is the white knight that comes in to slay the dragons for Carlisle. He’s also fighting his own demons in the form of medical school applications, feeling like he let his dead sister down and guilt. Then along comes Carlisle.
When a hot end of year hook up leads to another and then to them both wanting more, things start to get really complicated. For two people who carry more baggage than most, they somehow find comfort in each other’s arms and when the fall they fall fast and deep.
But when the call comes that could change Carlisle’s life it looks like the happiness they have found is going to be tested. When things get really tough and hurtful things are said, can Mateo and Carlisle find salvation with each other or is too late?
I’m a long term fan of this author and stories like this only prove why. I can lose myself in her books and become so emotionally invested that I feel like I’ve gained and lost friends when I finish. To say I’m looking forward to book three in this series would be a gross understatement. Bring on June 15th.
I received a copy of this book for review.
A longer review, yes I did a longer one, LOL, will be posted at www.thesubclubbooks.com on release day.
Salvation is a book you will be thinking about long after you put it down. From the heroine in Carlisle who I have to say is one of the strongest female characters I’ve read in a long while, to the truly wonderful hero in Mateo, the white knight that pushes his way onto the scene and melts your heart with his acts of selflessness.
Carlisle Queen is beautiful and sexy and funny and seriously f**d up. I should leave her alone but I can’t. Somewhere in the middle of the sex and the drugs and the things that neither of us like to talk about, I started falling for her.
Carlisle was an Olympic athlete injured when a bomb exploded and killed her boyfriend and many friends and is now forced to live with time bomb ticking away in her spine. Shrapnel from the blast will eventually either paralyse her or kill her. So she has a plan to take her own life when the time comes and lives her life accordingly.
Mateo…. Every girl should have a version of you in her life even if only briefly. He is the white knight that comes in to slay the dragons for Carlisle. He’s also fighting his own demons in the form of medical school applications, feeling like he let his dead sister down and guilt. Then along comes Carlisle.
When a hot end of year hook up leads to another and then to them both wanting more, things start to get really complicated. For two people who carry more baggage than most, they somehow find comfort in each other’s arms and when the fall they fall fast and deep.
But when the call comes that could change Carlisle’s life it looks like the happiness they have found is going to be tested. When things get really tough and hurtful things are said, can Mateo and Carlisle find salvation with each other or is too late?
I’m a long term fan of this author and stories like this only prove why. I can lose myself in her books and become so emotionally invested that I feel like I’ve gained and lost friends when I finish. To say I’m looking forward to book three in this series would be a gross understatement. Bring on June 15th.
I received a copy of this book for review.
A longer review, yes I did a longer one, LOL, will be posted at www.thesubclubbooks.com on release day.
May 13, 2015
Received review copy in exchange for an honest review.
--- this is a title that I wasn't so sure I was going to read. It popped up on my review dashboard and I passed it up a number of times before going through and requesting the title. Little did I know, I also had book one in my stash of to-read books, waiting ever so patiently in one of two (yes, two) "to read" categories on my Kindle app.
Don't be me.
Just read this darn book.
It is definitely going on my "Best of 2015" list simply due to it's realness.
Teo and Carlisle's love is quick -- freight train in a tunnel, quick -- and it's messy. They learn, they break, they move apart, and they find their way to solid ground.
We have Teo -- who watched his sister battle cancer and eventually 'give up'; in his mind, he didn't do enough to save her and allowed her to choose death. That is something he vows to never do again. Then he meets Carlisle.
Carlisle was an Olympic swimmer who lost everything in a terrorist bombing. She walked away from the attack, but has shrapnel in her back -- her choices, though, are limited. The only surgeon willing to do the surgery isn't currently willing to do the surgery on her, and the pieces are shifting and will eventually paralyze and or kill her.
Teo has been eyeing Carlisle at school for the past year or so, he and his buddy Zane nicknaming her Ariel due to her swimming and long red hair. She never goes to parties, but one night she shows up and that, they say, is history.
Their relationship is fairly gradual -- but when the love hits, it hits hard and fast. it takes time before Carlisle confesses her life and plans; when she does, he confesses his fears and his sister's story.
Both of these two wanted to save the other from pain and wanted to put the other's needs before their own -- but they never truly talked things out. Reading their story is like reading a true, coming of age, relationship progress. They make mistakes that college kids make. They say things and do things that they will regret.
...but when all is said and done, they will learn that their love is one that is meant to be -- as broken as it started, as unlikely as it seemed...
Their's was a story I enjoyed to pieces. Like I mentioned, I didn't realize I had TEMPTATION (it was a free read on Amazon and I snagged it) and am looking forward to cracking that open, as well as reading the rest of the series. Robin has done an amazing job with this group of friends and I look forward to seeing more of them as the series progresses.
--- this is a title that I wasn't so sure I was going to read. It popped up on my review dashboard and I passed it up a number of times before going through and requesting the title. Little did I know, I also had book one in my stash of to-read books, waiting ever so patiently in one of two (yes, two) "to read" categories on my Kindle app.
Don't be me.
Just read this darn book.
It is definitely going on my "Best of 2015" list simply due to it's realness.
Teo and Carlisle's love is quick -- freight train in a tunnel, quick -- and it's messy. They learn, they break, they move apart, and they find their way to solid ground.
We have Teo -- who watched his sister battle cancer and eventually 'give up'; in his mind, he didn't do enough to save her and allowed her to choose death. That is something he vows to never do again. Then he meets Carlisle.
Carlisle was an Olympic swimmer who lost everything in a terrorist bombing. She walked away from the attack, but has shrapnel in her back -- her choices, though, are limited. The only surgeon willing to do the surgery isn't currently willing to do the surgery on her, and the pieces are shifting and will eventually paralyze and or kill her.
Teo has been eyeing Carlisle at school for the past year or so, he and his buddy Zane nicknaming her Ariel due to her swimming and long red hair. She never goes to parties, but one night she shows up and that, they say, is history.
Their relationship is fairly gradual -- but when the love hits, it hits hard and fast. it takes time before Carlisle confesses her life and plans; when she does, he confesses his fears and his sister's story.
Both of these two wanted to save the other from pain and wanted to put the other's needs before their own -- but they never truly talked things out. Reading their story is like reading a true, coming of age, relationship progress. They make mistakes that college kids make. They say things and do things that they will regret.
...but when all is said and done, they will learn that their love is one that is meant to be -- as broken as it started, as unlikely as it seemed...
Their's was a story I enjoyed to pieces. Like I mentioned, I didn't realize I had TEMPTATION (it was a free read on Amazon and I snagged it) and am looking forward to cracking that open, as well as reading the rest of the series. Robin has done an amazing job with this group of friends and I look forward to seeing more of them as the series progresses.
July 5, 2015
Carlisle lost her best friend and man she loved in a terrorist attack. As one of the few survivors, of the bombing, she understandably suffers from PTSD and survivor's guilt. However, she did not escape unscathed. Her body bears the scars of the attack and the after effects of multiple surgeries, so it is no wonder that she has an emotional disconnect with everyone around her. She copes by self medicating and sex. Quick one-nighters, no phone calls, no cuddling, no beds and most importantly, no expectations for the future. That is until she gives in to desire and need with the one guy she should have stayed away from. Mateo acts like your average college guy looking for a good time, but deep down he's a nice guy at heart.
She finally meets someone who understands loss and can't in good conscience just stand by without trying to stop her or change her mind and she has to push him away. Mateo has his own tragedy that he's getting over which we don't find out about until well in to the book. Which makes me question whether he could be the right person for Carlisle considering she's all but given up and decided to die. Then again, the heart wants what it wants. And maybe someone who had been through loss the way Mateo had is exactly what Carlisle needed.
I don't presume to understand why some people make the choices they do, so I won't pretend to know or get why our heroine made the decision she did. Carlisle is dying, she knows it even if no one else does yet. What I don't understand is why when faced with paralysis, she would rather chose death. That just seems like a selfish decision to me. Almost like a child who can't get what they want, she is throwing a tantrum to end all tantrums because of self pity. I get why she also made the decision she did about Mateo. But to expect that when she decided to come back, he'd be waiting for her? Seriously? Wow... full of yourself much? I loved Mateo. He was a great character who never tried to be anything but himself. Carlisle though, I had a love/hate relationship with. In the end I didn't think she deserved Mateo.
To be honest, I absolutely loved this story. It was heart wrenching and so real.
She finally meets someone who understands loss and can't in good conscience just stand by without trying to stop her or change her mind and she has to push him away. Mateo has his own tragedy that he's getting over which we don't find out about until well in to the book. Which makes me question whether he could be the right person for Carlisle considering she's all but given up and decided to die. Then again, the heart wants what it wants. And maybe someone who had been through loss the way Mateo had is exactly what Carlisle needed.
I don't presume to understand why some people make the choices they do, so I won't pretend to know or get why our heroine made the decision she did. Carlisle is dying, she knows it even if no one else does yet. What I don't understand is why when faced with paralysis, she would rather chose death. That just seems like a selfish decision to me. Almost like a child who can't get what they want, she is throwing a tantrum to end all tantrums because of self pity. I get why she also made the decision she did about Mateo. But to expect that when she decided to come back, he'd be waiting for her? Seriously? Wow... full of yourself much? I loved Mateo. He was a great character who never tried to be anything but himself. Carlisle though, I had a love/hate relationship with. In the end I didn't think she deserved Mateo.
To be honest, I absolutely loved this story. It was heart wrenching and so real.
May 15, 2015
This is the second book in the Nashville Nights series and it is certainly another hit for me.
Carlise Queen had an amazing future as an Olympic swimmer and an amazing boyfriend. She lost both of those loves as a result of a terrorist bombing. Carlise was left physically and emotionally damaged that day. She lives in constant pain from the shrapnel in her body it is a constant reminder of that day. She is now drifting through life and is determined not to become emotionally attached to anyone. She has no difficulty finding willing men to take care of her needs with no strings attached. This has now become her way until she meets Him.
Mateo Butler is a handsome, smart caring man who has medical school on the horizon. He is living life day by day since he lost his one true friend/sister to cancer years ago. It has been a difficult road for him. He has become bitter knowing that they were going to make this world a better place together until she was abruptly taken away. Mateo has been numbing the pain with partying and nameless women. That changes the day he sets his eyes on Carlise. He is enraptured by her from the start but knows that if he attempts to pursue her to strongly she will run. The two of them have been playing a flirtatious game of cat and mouse since the beginning of the semester.
One evening changes everything for both of them. Carlise thinks one night with Mateo will be all she needs to rid him from her system and Mateo gets one night with her and is becomes his mission to be her protector. These two damaged souls have now realized they need to be together but with Mateo's strong need to care for Carlise this may ruin his career. Carlise realizes that she loves him to much to let that happen and needs to do what is best for him.....Letting him go is the only answer. Can these two beautifully damaged people find their way back to each other to help and heal one another?
A beautifully flawed loved story!
I was gifted a copy of this book for an honest review.
~~Michele McMullen~~
Carlise Queen had an amazing future as an Olympic swimmer and an amazing boyfriend. She lost both of those loves as a result of a terrorist bombing. Carlise was left physically and emotionally damaged that day. She lives in constant pain from the shrapnel in her body it is a constant reminder of that day. She is now drifting through life and is determined not to become emotionally attached to anyone. She has no difficulty finding willing men to take care of her needs with no strings attached. This has now become her way until she meets Him.
Mateo Butler is a handsome, smart caring man who has medical school on the horizon. He is living life day by day since he lost his one true friend/sister to cancer years ago. It has been a difficult road for him. He has become bitter knowing that they were going to make this world a better place together until she was abruptly taken away. Mateo has been numbing the pain with partying and nameless women. That changes the day he sets his eyes on Carlise. He is enraptured by her from the start but knows that if he attempts to pursue her to strongly she will run. The two of them have been playing a flirtatious game of cat and mouse since the beginning of the semester.
One evening changes everything for both of them. Carlise thinks one night with Mateo will be all she needs to rid him from her system and Mateo gets one night with her and is becomes his mission to be her protector. These two damaged souls have now realized they need to be together but with Mateo's strong need to care for Carlise this may ruin his career. Carlise realizes that she loves him to much to let that happen and needs to do what is best for him.....Letting him go is the only answer. Can these two beautifully damaged people find their way back to each other to help and heal one another?
A beautifully flawed loved story!
I was gifted a copy of this book for an honest review.
~~Michele McMullen~~
May 22, 2015
4.5! Our ratings will be based on this 5 Star scale:
*****J’adore/Nous Adorons: World-changing, we could not put it down even if we dared to try. And, we might just read it again. We would recommend it to anyone.
****Liked it: It didn’t shatter our worlds. Something held us back from that amazing moment of complete obsession, but we definitely liked it a lot. We would recommend it to our friends.
For those who skim: Carlisle and Mateo have a beautiful and sexy relationship that is sure to give you all the feels!
1. Character: "Do we care?". Development. Relationships between characters.
Convington drew us in from the start. Carlisle is super funny. She developes each dynamic between the characters with ease. It didn't take much for us to get a sense of who everyone was. She really developed her main characters well without getting too caught up in them to show us things about the rest of the cast.
2. Plot: "World-building". Story arc. "Did it hold our interest?"
I read this sucker in one sitting. The story was beautiful, raw, and honest. Everything was easy to imagine and sit through.
3. Plausibility: Can we suspend our sense of reality while we read these and still have it make sense?
Everything felt real. Everything felt honest. I could always see where Carlisle was coming from, and it always felt realistic. Not once did I feel like straws were being grabbed at to make a point.
4.Pure entertainment value.
Funny. Sexy. The Feels! Heart breaking. Heart warming. It was awesome. I think I wanted to know more about his thoughts or encounters with her before the story's timeline. It was understood that they were friendly, but I wanted more. It edged one being insta-love which is part of why this is a 4.5 read for me instead of a 5.
I can't wait for the next book in this series!!!
*ARC from Netgalley in exchange for an honest opinion*
*****J’adore/Nous Adorons: World-changing, we could not put it down even if we dared to try. And, we might just read it again. We would recommend it to anyone.
****Liked it: It didn’t shatter our worlds. Something held us back from that amazing moment of complete obsession, but we definitely liked it a lot. We would recommend it to our friends.
For those who skim: Carlisle and Mateo have a beautiful and sexy relationship that is sure to give you all the feels!
1. Character: "Do we care?". Development. Relationships between characters.
Convington drew us in from the start. Carlisle is super funny. She developes each dynamic between the characters with ease. It didn't take much for us to get a sense of who everyone was. She really developed her main characters well without getting too caught up in them to show us things about the rest of the cast.
2. Plot: "World-building". Story arc. "Did it hold our interest?"
I read this sucker in one sitting. The story was beautiful, raw, and honest. Everything was easy to imagine and sit through.
3. Plausibility: Can we suspend our sense of reality while we read these and still have it make sense?
Everything felt real. Everything felt honest. I could always see where Carlisle was coming from, and it always felt realistic. Not once did I feel like straws were being grabbed at to make a point.
4.Pure entertainment value.
Funny. Sexy. The Feels! Heart breaking. Heart warming. It was awesome. I think I wanted to know more about his thoughts or encounters with her before the story's timeline. It was understood that they were friendly, but I wanted more. It edged one being insta-love which is part of why this is a 4.5 read for me instead of a 5.
I can't wait for the next book in this series!!!
*ARC from Netgalley in exchange for an honest opinion*
May 8, 2015
3 1/2 stars
I enjoyed this a lot. I loved the first book in the series Temptation which featured Mateo's cousin Matt, and therefore I had pretty high expectations for this one. For the most part Covington delivered. I loved my introduction to the tortured duo of Carlisle Queen and Mateo Butler.
Carlisle was a former swimming champion who was badly injured when terrorists detonated a bomb that also killed her lover and many other athlete. She was left with serious injuries and she now self medicates with drugs and sex to escape the pain and the memories. I was expecting her to have demons due to her past, but Mateo Butler surprised me. On the surface he appeared to have it all, he was good looking, smart, funny, charming and women threw themselves at him. However Covington reveals the demons that haunt him, in the shape of his sister who he loved and lost. When they finally come together it is explosive and intense. I really liked all of this and the plot and supporting characters had me turning pages as quickly as I could so I could see where the story was going.
Where I had a problem was there is a twist at about the three quarter mark that I REALLY didn't like. I understood it, it was explained clearly, but I still had a problem with it and to some extent it soured the rest of the story for me. I won't go into any further detail as I don't want to give away the plot. This was entirely a personal perspective and no doubt many other people won't have a problem with what happens, but I did.
I still enjoyed the rest of the story, I'll be eagerly awaiting the publication of Redemption (Zane and Emory's story) and I wouldn't hesitate to recommend these books to anyone looking for an entertaining and well written romance.
* ARC provided by NetGalley and the publisher in return for an honest review *
I enjoyed this a lot. I loved the first book in the series Temptation which featured Mateo's cousin Matt, and therefore I had pretty high expectations for this one. For the most part Covington delivered. I loved my introduction to the tortured duo of Carlisle Queen and Mateo Butler.
Carlisle was a former swimming champion who was badly injured when terrorists detonated a bomb that also killed her lover and many other athlete. She was left with serious injuries and she now self medicates with drugs and sex to escape the pain and the memories. I was expecting her to have demons due to her past, but Mateo Butler surprised me. On the surface he appeared to have it all, he was good looking, smart, funny, charming and women threw themselves at him. However Covington reveals the demons that haunt him, in the shape of his sister who he loved and lost. When they finally come together it is explosive and intense. I really liked all of this and the plot and supporting characters had me turning pages as quickly as I could so I could see where the story was going.
Where I had a problem was there is a twist at about the three quarter mark that I REALLY didn't like. I understood it, it was explained clearly, but I still had a problem with it and to some extent it soured the rest of the story for me. I won't go into any further detail as I don't want to give away the plot. This was entirely a personal perspective and no doubt many other people won't have a problem with what happens, but I did.
I still enjoyed the rest of the story, I'll be eagerly awaiting the publication of Redemption (Zane and Emory's story) and I wouldn't hesitate to recommend these books to anyone looking for an entertaining and well written romance.
* ARC provided by NetGalley and the publisher in return for an honest review *
May 15, 2015
Carlisle Queen & Mateo Butler met in Spanish class. He is the TA and is always finding it funny that she cannot do the accent. He has been trying to get her to go on a date for about a year.
Carlisle has many issues from her past making it difficult to move forward. She has honestly never planned to do so. She used to be an Olympic Swimmer and has the 12 medals to prove how food she was. After a bomb stole her friends, her job and the love of her life - she decided it was no longer worth living.
Mateo is just getting to know the real Carlisle and he likes her a lot. He has a bog family and good support system so he wants to be there for anyone who needs him. If that is Carlisle, then so be it. So what if they are so hot for each other that the clothes often come off.
Carlisle is already possibly dying or could eventually be paralyzed by the shrapnel in her back. She takes life as a video game, since she does not plan to live too much into the future. She keeps everyone at a distance, since she finds it rude to hurt those she cares about to take her own life. She is also determined to do so.
Mateo changes her mind on a lot of things. Can this choice to leave the human world be one of them? He convinces her he loves her. They are both so stubborn it is a toss up who will win.
Such an extraordinary story about two lives who make the others better. I found myself cheering, crying and completely unable to put this book down! This is the 2nd book in the Nashville Nights series, and soon we will have book 3!
******This ARC copy was given free from Netgalley.com and the publisher, for review purposes. My honest opinion was given and does not reflect Netgelley, nor its affiliates.
Carlisle has many issues from her past making it difficult to move forward. She has honestly never planned to do so. She used to be an Olympic Swimmer and has the 12 medals to prove how food she was. After a bomb stole her friends, her job and the love of her life - she decided it was no longer worth living.
Mateo is just getting to know the real Carlisle and he likes her a lot. He has a bog family and good support system so he wants to be there for anyone who needs him. If that is Carlisle, then so be it. So what if they are so hot for each other that the clothes often come off.
Carlisle is already possibly dying or could eventually be paralyzed by the shrapnel in her back. She takes life as a video game, since she does not plan to live too much into the future. She keeps everyone at a distance, since she finds it rude to hurt those she cares about to take her own life. She is also determined to do so.
Mateo changes her mind on a lot of things. Can this choice to leave the human world be one of them? He convinces her he loves her. They are both so stubborn it is a toss up who will win.
Such an extraordinary story about two lives who make the others better. I found myself cheering, crying and completely unable to put this book down! This is the 2nd book in the Nashville Nights series, and soon we will have book 3!
******This ARC copy was given free from Netgalley.com and the publisher, for review purposes. My honest opinion was given and does not reflect Netgelley, nor its affiliates.
May 15, 2015
Wow--where to begin?
So much is packed into not a whole lot of (just under 200) pages here. I knew from the blurb that there would be a lot of intense stuff going on in this one, but I honestly had no idea just how much or how Robin would be able to get a satisfactory story out of it in such a relatively short book.
But she did...
Carlisle Queen is an amazing character. From Olympic medal-winning swimmer, to bombing survivor, to college freshman, to...well, I can't say what else she's going to become, because that would give too much away. Just suffice to say she's continuously reinventing herself, pushing through every barrier that's put in her way and being so amazingly strong through it all that it's just, well, amazing.
Mateo's got it easy by comparison ;)
Seriously, even though they share the narration and he's a great character too, it's Carlisle who steals the show here. Even when he doesn't realize it, she's the one being strong for both of them and making the hard choices that he never would. She takes a huge gamble, and it pays off.
Such. A. Good. Story.
The characters from Temptation make appearances and the ones from the next book, Redemption , are nicely set up as well, but Salvation works just fine as a standalone.
Don't blame me if you find yourself adding two more books to your TBR when you're done, though. ;)
Rating: 4 stars / A-
I received a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.
So much is packed into not a whole lot of (just under 200) pages here. I knew from the blurb that there would be a lot of intense stuff going on in this one, but I honestly had no idea just how much or how Robin would be able to get a satisfactory story out of it in such a relatively short book.
But she did...
Carlisle Queen is an amazing character. From Olympic medal-winning swimmer, to bombing survivor, to college freshman, to...well, I can't say what else she's going to become, because that would give too much away. Just suffice to say she's continuously reinventing herself, pushing through every barrier that's put in her way and being so amazingly strong through it all that it's just, well, amazing.
Mateo's got it easy by comparison ;)
Seriously, even though they share the narration and he's a great character too, it's Carlisle who steals the show here. Even when he doesn't realize it, she's the one being strong for both of them and making the hard choices that he never would. She takes a huge gamble, and it pays off.
Such. A. Good. Story.
The characters from Temptation make appearances and the ones from the next book, Redemption , are nicely set up as well, but Salvation works just fine as a standalone.
Don't blame me if you find yourself adding two more books to your TBR when you're done, though. ;)
Rating: 4 stars / A-
I received a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.
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