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Figure 8

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Isabelle’s life is spiralling out of control. The death of her mother when she was 8 years old created a deep and dark depression, from which she has constantly struggled to climb out of.
Now she has reached the lowest point she has ever been. She sees no other way out.

Suddenly she finds hope.

She meets Damon Harmon.

Wanting desperately to help Isabelle, Damon tries to drag her out of the darkness and breathe life back into her.

But why is he so determined to help her?

What is the dark secret which haunts him and threatens their future?

Will their love be enough to withstand betrayal?

When love leaves you breathless, how do you learn to breathe on your own?

271 pages, Kindle Edition

First published July 14, 2015

11 people are currently reading
185 people want to read

About the author

Elle McKenzie

7 books80 followers
When she was a child, Elle wrote several stories and had a dream of becoming a journalist. Unfortunately, life changed her course and she didn't get to fulfil her dream.
Two years ago, Elle decided to start writing again and Figure 8 was born.
Released in 2015, Figure 8 was her first novel, a romantic thriller set in Manchester, England.
Since then, Elle has written two more books, Lust and Dear Darling.

Elle resides in Cheshire with her husband, three children, and two dogs.

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5 stars
41 (35%)
4 stars
36 (31%)
3 stars
25 (21%)
2 stars
8 (6%)
1 star
5 (4%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
Profile Image for Kelcey Gonnerman-rienhardt.
180 reviews
April 25, 2019
Awesome

I never heard of this author before this book and it was shared as a freebie so I got it to try out and it absolutely did not disappoint. Definitely would of been worth the money but will definitely be checking out more stories from this author cuz I loved this book from start to finish
Profile Image for JG.
1,075 reviews68 followers
July 24, 2015
3.5 Stars

This was an intriguing story depicting deception and love living side by side. A story of tragedy and ongoing depression but at the same time of hope but hope in the arms of someone who is not who he appears to be.

This story starts on a knife-edge or should I say blade-edge as we meet the leading characters in a dramatic fashion of a failed suicide attempt by Isabelle Riley, a woman forever damaged by the tragic loss of her mother, who finds herself in the care of a man who has looked out for her almost his whole life unbeknownst to her, Damon.

Meeting Damon for the first time in the hospital sets a chain of events in motion for both Isabelle and Damon. Damon has wanted to approach Isabelle for so long but has never had the opportunity until now. All Isabelle knows though is this man is stunningly attractive and for some reason her heart is drawn to him.

Brought together by chance, the two start an affair whilst Isabelle continues to see Damon as her Psychiatrist. Facing her past is painful but so is facing a future with the enduring heartbreak and unanswered questions she holds inside her. Talking to her father reveals some more information but it’s not until the figure 8 starts appearing once again in her life, not just her nightmares, does Isabelle start to seek answers and they are not the answers she expects to find. After receiving a phone call though warning her away from Damon, Isabelle starts to wonder if this man is all he appears to be or if there is more to his connection to her.

The connection between Isabelle and Damon is a strong bond which is felt by you as a reader. Their combined pain and sadness is palpable as you start to witness how their lives have always been intertwined. Their story develops slowly until you start to piece together the mystery surrounding their connection.

I enjoyed this book. Written by a British author and based in a region of Britain close to where I live was a refreshing change but it felt strange at the same time. I think we have all become so americanised that British writing styles now seem awkward and unnatural at times, a true sadness. That said, the writing was fair and the story well mapped out and didn’t feel rushed as you clawed your way through the pages to find out exactly how the figure 8 impacts on Isabelle’s life.

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Profile Image for Jeanette Book-Reviews.
577 reviews10 followers
July 16, 2015
****Review coming up.....

Figure 8 - Elle McKenzie
Isabelle’s life is spiralling out of control. The death of her mother when she was 8 years old created a deep and dark depression, from which she has constantly struggled to climb out of.
Now she has reached the lowest point she has ever been. She sees no other way out.
Suddenly she finds hope. She meets Damon.
Wanting desperately to help Isabelle, Damon tries to drag her out of the darkness and breathe life back into her.

But why is he so determined to help her?
What is the dark secret which haunts him and threatens their future?
Will their love be enough to withstand betrayal?
When love leaves you breathless, how do you learn to breathe on your own?
----------------------------------------------------------------
Totally amazed that's its Elle's debut novel - Its a standalone. This story revolved around Isabelle struggling with dark depression, when she decided its was enough....we meet this sexy psychiatrist Damon.. just love reading the prologue which is in Damon's POV makes me chuckle as if he's talking to me when correcting his English sayings as he's American... This story is close to my heart as I suffer with pouts of depression which just come & goes. Elle did a fantastic job there as its was so beautifully written with just raw emotions.
Damon is really an angel for wanting to go beyond trying to help Isabella, its lovely to see her going through it all while becoming a strong woman as she never had the chance to fully grief over the loss of her mother... I have to say its was so refreshing to know its sets in Manchester UK which isn't far from me!
Seriously I recommend reading this amazing story beautifully written for a debut, really looking forward to be reading more of her work in future!
Profile Image for reading the sheets.
267 reviews8 followers
Read
July 17, 2015
WOW I totally loved this book.This is Elles debut and its fantastic.
The book had me from the first pages,Isabelle lives her life in fear,haunted by nightmares and dreams she doesn’t understand.Never recovering from the death of her mother when she was a child she slipped into a dark depression that has ravaged her life.When she reaches her lowest ebb,her rock bottom salvation comes in the form of Damon her psychiatrist.He vows to help her live her life again,help her to confront her demons head on and face a future where she can find peace and happiness.But why is Damon so determined to help her,hes drawn to her and she too him,he tries to stay professional but the pull is too strong and he gives in to his desire for Isabelle.They start a relationship but just what is Damon hiding?Will his secrets destroy their new found love and will Isabelle be able to forgive him when she does find out?
Elle has written a fantastic book,it’s a journey that you will start with charcters that are easy to love,I loved the secondary characters too especially Jack and Jenny her best friend.Theres a few twists and turns that will keep you glued to this till the very end.Its hot and steamy, funny and uplifting sad and emotional all the elements that make it an outstanding read!
Profile Image for A Book Lover's Emporium Book Blog.
2,816 reviews171 followers
July 2, 2015
For a start I couldn't believe it was a debut novel it was exceedingly well written with a very clever story line. It had me enthralled from page one.

When Isabelle reaches her lowest she has to sort herself out or give up, but then she meets Damon, her incredibly sexy Psychiatrist. Damon has to help Isabelle, he needs to mend her but he has secrets, secrets will threaten them both and their safety.

This story was great it took you by the hand and lead you on the journey, with all it's ups and downs. It is a well written, insightful and engrossing story. Loved Damon and Isabelle, I felt emotional along with the characters, always the sign of a good book, and I would highly recommend it. I will definitely be reading other books by Elle McKenzie.

This a standalone novel.
Profile Image for Michele Mckenzie.
87 reviews26 followers
January 5, 2016
I was lucky enough to have been provided a copy of this book by the author in return for an honest review.

There is only one word appropriate for this author's debut novel, a bit, fat WOW!!!

Seriously, there is no words that I can find that do this book justice. If you bought this book without knowing anything about the author you would not know that it was her debut novel.

You fall in love with Damon from the get go and you cannot help but want Isabelle as your new best friend. As their journey continues you can't help but root for their relationship to gain strength every day.

Brilliant book by a very talented author, cannot wait to read more of her work
Profile Image for  ✰  Charlie  ✰ Chisholm.
1,984 reviews22 followers
July 20, 2015
4.5 Stars Wow I cannot believe this is the author's debut novel, it is a great book


Hard to put into words how great this book is and to do the review Justice.

I totally loved it and fell in Love with Damon I had to keep going till I found out what was going on and parts I really didn't see coming it was great.

I won a copy from the Author
Profile Image for L.J. Diaz.
Author 5 books7 followers
July 22, 2015
Great debut novel! I found myself swept up in Isabelle & Damon's whirlwind. The author did a really good job of making the suspense of Damon's secret & Isabelle's past last until the very end. There were moments when I thought I had it all figured out, but it wasn't too obvious. Very fast-paced & easy to read. If you like erotic romance thrillers then you should definitely pick this up.
Profile Image for Stephanie Daley.
268 reviews30 followers
July 10, 2016
I loved this book!

This was my first read by Elle McKenzie and definitely won't be my last. This was a really good
romantic suspense novel. I loved the characters in this and the dual POV. This had some really good plot twists in it. Very enjoyable read!
Profile Image for Keli O'Leary .
182 reviews3 followers
January 4, 2016
WOW, this book had just about everything in it, deception, love, tragedy, sex, and Elle did a great job keeping your attention throughout the book explaining the deep connection with Damon and Izzy.
Profile Image for Melissa Harris.
16 reviews1 follower
May 17, 2016
Loved it OMG. Loved the story and all of the characters.
Profile Image for Tracy Parker.
489 reviews30 followers
December 20, 2017
Skimmed

I finished this, but I didn’t read every word. Not my writing style. Interesting story though, and how the title, and number 8 is a cool tie in to the story
Profile Image for Alicia Huxtable.
1,913 reviews60 followers
June 16, 2021
Not for me, but that's my problem

This book crossed a line that my head didn't like. That is the only bad part. The writing, the characters and the storyline were all really well done and all meshed together really well. Just because this book wasn't one for me, give it a go
Profile Image for My Own Bookshelves.
717 reviews136 followers
September 22, 2015
"The only difference is that when I ask her what her story is, I will already know."

This debut novel has a great story to offer. Do not allow the subject matter to turn you off. Although it deals with suicide, it's not the central theme. Isabella and Damon do not meet (again) under the best of circumstances. Isabella has fallen into a deep depression and feels like there is maybe only one solution. During her evaluation, she meets Damon, a staff psychiatrist, who she feels attracted to, yet is conflicted in this feeling. As their relationship evolves, you find more to the story - they actually have a past that rears its ugly head to threatened their budding relationship.

This was a difficult book for me to write a review. I love debut authors. In such a fondness, I have a tendency to give them a wider berth in the writing. This is a British author. She uses British language and grammar that may be sensitive to American readers. I loved the premise of the story: where it evolved and lead. However, it was the writing style that faltered for me. It felt as if the story was written at two different time periods. One written with us hearing the conversations in Isabella's head. The second being a more traditional novel approach. Also, I felt like the Ms. McKenzie spent too much time explaining to the reader the actions of character getting from here to there in the room. Or details that could have been left out. Now, this may be a style of writing not in my favorites. But, this writer shows promise in the storyline. Will I pick up another novel if I see it available? Yes, I am willing to give this debut artist another turn to immerse me in a story I think she has within her. Just a bit more polish and consistency will give us a four star read.
Profile Image for Dawn.
158 reviews
July 17, 2015
WOW I totally loved this book.This is Elles debut and its fantastic.
The book had me from the first pages,Isabelle lives her life in fear,haunted by nightmares and dreams she doesn’t understand.Never recovering from the death of her mother when she was a child she slipped into a dark depression that has ravaged her life.When she reaches her lowest ebb,her rock bottom salvation comes in the form of Damon her psychiatrist.He vows to help her live her life again,help her to confront her demons head on and face a future where she can find peace and happiness.But why is Damon so determined to help her,hes drawn to her and she too him,he tries to stay professional but the pull is too strong and he gives in to his desire for Isabelle.They start a relationship but just what is Damon hiding?Will his secrets destroy their new found love and will Isabelle be able to forgive him when she does find out?
Elle has written a fantastic book,it’s a journey that you will start with charcters that are easy to love,I loved the secondary characters too especially Jack and Jenny her best friend.Theres a few twists and turns that will keep you glued to this till the very end.Its hot and steamy, funny and uplifting sad and emotional all the elements that make it an outstanding read!
I didnt want it to end but end it did...read this great debut from Elle and fall in love with Damon!!
844 reviews7 followers
October 16, 2015
A debut book from this British author, and not to be missed. I really loved the plot of this story and it held me all the way through with a decent ending.
Isabelle is traumatized by the death of her mother years ago when she was 8 years old and is still suffering to this day with nightmare's and depression. She is admitted to hospital where she gets to meet the handsome, sexy Psychiatrist Dr Damon Harmon. He is determined to help Isabelle get her life back on track, but does this man have his own secrets to hide ? Can Isabelle trust him to help her overcome all her Demons. Isabelle has her friends Jenny and Jack to support her, and they are a refreshing addition to the story, with many one liners and jokes abound. But even they are not enough at this troubled time of her life.
Refreshing to read a book written by a British author and based in England itself, and I look forward to reading the next book from Elle.
A must read
Profile Image for Angie.
635 reviews
August 4, 2015
Let me start by saying I can't believe this is the author's debut novel. It was very well written with a great storyline that captured you from the start. Could not put this book down! I was drawn to the characters and enjoyed seeing how they developed throughout the book. I kept trying to guess the connection Damon had with Isabelle. This book had me guessing and wondering where it was going. The story starts off when Isabelle hits a low point in her life and finds herself struggling to keep her head above the water. Enter Damon, the sexy as sin psychiatrist who is there to help her work through her problems. They are drawn to each other and he vows to help her heal from years of heartbreak but Damon holds secrets that could destroy both of them and cause even more heartbreak.
668 reviews3 followers
October 13, 2015
This story will break your heart and make it whole again!

The moment you thought you know the direction the story is supposed to go, it will lead you elsewhere. The twists and turns of this story will kept me guessing and wanting more, and I loved it!

Isabelle's character is understandably wobbly, as she tries to heal from her past that keeps on popping up in her life. Damon, on the other hand, is a mystery that you just want to solve.

Overall, I love the story! However, I felt that some words and expressions are used extensively, thereby making some parts of the story seem repetitive, even the sexy scenes.

I was gifted a copy for an honest review.
Profile Image for Domini.
475 reviews
July 25, 2015
Brilliant debut book from a brilliant new author, I predict great things from this lady! Figure 8 was a powerful book to read, it dealt with some heavy stuff. Izzy was such a sad soul but she was trying very hard to have a normal, healthy life. Damon was always going to be her saviour, he was so determined to help her heal. In the end the love they shared help to heal them both.
I would totally recommend this book to anyone looking for an interesting plot twist with a strong love story!!!
Profile Image for Tess Garfield.
Author 7 books3 followers
August 24, 2015
A very well written erotic romance. I was hooked from the beginning and read the whole book in two sittings, totally unlike me. Whilst I started speculating about where the story was going, I never did guess. The twists and turns, ups and downs, all had me glued. You know a book is good when you become attached to the characters, feeling sad for their lows and happy for their highs. I can honestly recommend Figure 8 to anybody who likes a steamy love story.
Profile Image for Glynis Reads.
639 reviews6 followers
August 15, 2015
No no no

Thats what I started telling myself. He is a psychiatrist, she is his patient, he risks his license to have an affair with a patient? Thought this was a far fetched tale and shallow, and a bit frantic. Still I kept reading and the conclusion totally changed my mind! Well Done.
Profile Image for Pauline (Passionate About Books).
809 reviews15 followers
November 12, 2015
A book about the hurtful consequences of depression and falling deeply in love... and how one helps negate the other. How a lifetime of horrible nightmares turn into a future of eternal love and hope. A story with many twists and turns, lies and deception... but you eventually get your HEA. 4 hopeful stars for Figure 8.
Profile Image for Deb Artus.
54 reviews
July 20, 2015
A really good book from a new author. It will grip you from the beginning with a brilliant twist as it moves along. A gret read. I alsi loved how it was set in places that I actually new. Well done Elle
Profile Image for Michelle.
552 reviews44 followers
July 20, 2015

A well written debut book by Elle McKenzie.

Figure 8 is a great emotional read with a few twists & turns, I loved Damon & Isabelle and will be looking for more books coming from Elle, hopefully soon.
Profile Image for Erika Ʊ nicholson.
10 reviews
July 13, 2015
Wow! What a fab debut book. I wasn't sure what to expect but the story line kept me gripped throughout. It also kept me guessing and the ending wasn't what I expected. Can't wait for more books by a talented new author
Profile Image for Beverley Norcross.
60 reviews3 followers
October 13, 2015
Hard to believe this is a debut Elle-it's amazing! I loved Damon from the very beginning, Izzy took a bit to warm to. I picked up and walked away from this book a few times, triggers (?) maybe, I don't know-some of the story was uncomfortable for me, but I'm glad I finished it!
Profile Image for Shell Williams.
180 reviews1 follower
December 21, 2015
Great read

Wasn't sure about this book since she was a new author to me but WOW this book was great such heart ache friendship and oh the love I must say I really enjoyed this book. Can't wait to to read something else by this author
Profile Image for A.T. Hills.
Author 4 books10 followers
July 28, 2016
I feel a little bad writing this review but I'm trying to be honest and constructive. The author said at the very beginning that there would be lots of English colloquialisms but I felt it slipped into Americanisms quite a bit, which was confusing. I also felt that the love/connection between Damon and Iz was just too quick. I think it would seem more realistic if it was drawn out more. It just felt unrealistic to me. I feel the novel would also benefit from a good editing as the writing style and typos etc were a little amateur. The story does have potential, in fact it would be a great, gripping book if maybe another revision was made.
5 reviews
September 11, 2015
I could tell this was a debut novel as the writing is amateurish. However, I can see potential in this writer. She tells a story in a unique way that draws you into the characters. Now, if only she could get a good editor to polish the finer details, it would be so much better. I loved the storyline, it wasn't your usual, girl meets millionaire with a bad past and they fall in love. It was unique and kept you gripped. I can see this author going far and i look forward to more books from her, i just hope it the next one is polished. 4 stars, potentially 5, if edited.
Profile Image for Chantelle Hazelden.
1,470 reviews65 followers
January 18, 2016
It is my understanding after reading other peoples reviews that this was a debut novel and even after taking this into consideration I can't understand why so many rated this story so highly. The storyline intrugued me and had it been better written I think it could have worked well however this was not the case.

Overall it came across as cheesy, the storyline seemed rushed and not thought through leaving it lacking any real depth. I didn't feel anything for the characters and honestly struggled to get to the end. Disappointing because the open pages had so much promise.
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