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Fearless #2
Afraid to Fly
Dominic Trevino had been called a lot of things. Manwhore. Womanizer. Slut. But he was most notoriously known as Dirty Dom. Because that was who he was…for the most part. It just wasn’t all he was. His tortured past was as stained as his licentious reputation, and that was exactly how he’d designed it. It was the only way he knew how to cope with the ghosts that still kept him caged in horror and self-loathing. But the day Raven came tearing into his life—her temper as hot as her teeny tiny shorts—he knew he could never be placated with faceless hook-ups again. Still, he couldn’t let her see who—and what—he really was inside. Raven freed him from his past…freed him from his pain. She saved him. Even though she didn’t believe he was even worth saving. From the author of New York Times AND USA Today bestseller, Fear of Falling, comes a full-length, spin-off STANDALONE about unbreakable friendships, the power of healing, and learning to love through forgiveness.
346 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 25, 2015
About the author
S.L. Jennings
26 books4,608 followersS.L. Jennings is a proud military wife to her high school sweetheart, a mom of 3 rowdy boys, and a New York Times and USA Today Bestselling author of contemporary and paranormal romance. When she’s not obsessing over book boyfriends, you can find her hanging out with a few epic fictional loves at independent bookstores, or sipping a Bloody Mary at her favorite brunch haunt in Spokane, Washington. She’s a self-proclaimed food snob, makeup junkie and lover of all things shiny, sparkly and kitschy.
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 223 reviews
September 6, 2017
5 stars!!!
When I first read Fear of Falling, I remember being immediately intrigued by Kami’s best friend Dom’s character. I loved how kind and supportive he was with Kami, even though you could tell he had a lot of issues of his own. I wanted to see what those issues were. I wanted to see what made Dom tick. It’s been a while since I’ve read FoF, and I was very excited when I heard this book was being released and made sure to read it straight away. I’m happy I did. I loved it even more than the first.
My heart broke for Dom. Going into his past and reading about what happened to him as a child was not easy. No one should ever have to experience anything like that. Dom didn’t always cope in the healthiest ways, but it was easy to understand why he did it. Why he was the way he was. Even with some unhealthy coping, Dom is a stand up guy. I admire his character and the way he choses to take the bad that happened to him and devoting his life to making sure those same things don’t happen to other children. People who devote their lives to jobs that are too difficult for most amaze me. It’s so unselfish and giving.
Raven is a girl who has a past as well. It’s so different than Dom’s, but it’s still there. She works two jobs to support her brother, who Dom is a mentor to. Toby (Raven’s brother) is a special character. I loved how there were so many wonderful characters in this story. There were times I wondered what Raven’s real motivations were. I didn’t know where she was coming from and what she was about in a lot of this book, but once it clicked… it really clicked. I got it. I understood her.
This story isn’t all about the love. One of the things I love most about this book is the relationships within the story. These characters aren’t just friends. They are a family. A real true family full of loving and supportive people. Just like in FoF, I loved the dynamic of Dom, Kami and Angel.
There is love. Even when Dom and Raven might not have wanted to admit it, their love started much earlier than either one thought. And it only developed as they became friends of sorts and Raven started to trust Dom. That attraction was always there, but the trust took time. When it finally happened and they were able to open up to one another, it was a glorious thing.
Sometimes the happiest endings don’t have the most beautiful journeys. This story was raw, it was real and at times intense. I loved the strength of these characters and how they fought to get through their issues and overcome their pasts. Jenning’s writing is wonderful. She excels at these emotional and captivating stories.
Afraid to Fly is a powerful read. It’s got characters who are broken and damaged but find a way to move past it. It’s a love story, but it’s much more than that. Books like this make me think, make me feel, and inspire me. I highly recommend this book and I hope there is more to come with this series.
“Desire is just concentrated madness of the body and soul.” she whispered. “Do you want my crazy?”
When I first read Fear of Falling, I remember being immediately intrigued by Kami’s best friend Dom’s character. I loved how kind and supportive he was with Kami, even though you could tell he had a lot of issues of his own. I wanted to see what those issues were. I wanted to see what made Dom tick. It’s been a while since I’ve read FoF, and I was very excited when I heard this book was being released and made sure to read it straight away. I’m happy I did. I loved it even more than the first.
My heart broke for Dom. Going into his past and reading about what happened to him as a child was not easy. No one should ever have to experience anything like that. Dom didn’t always cope in the healthiest ways, but it was easy to understand why he did it. Why he was the way he was. Even with some unhealthy coping, Dom is a stand up guy. I admire his character and the way he choses to take the bad that happened to him and devoting his life to making sure those same things don’t happen to other children. People who devote their lives to jobs that are too difficult for most amaze me. It’s so unselfish and giving.
Raven is a girl who has a past as well. It’s so different than Dom’s, but it’s still there. She works two jobs to support her brother, who Dom is a mentor to. Toby (Raven’s brother) is a special character. I loved how there were so many wonderful characters in this story. There were times I wondered what Raven’s real motivations were. I didn’t know where she was coming from and what she was about in a lot of this book, but once it clicked… it really clicked. I got it. I understood her.
This story isn’t all about the love. One of the things I love most about this book is the relationships within the story. These characters aren’t just friends. They are a family. A real true family full of loving and supportive people. Just like in FoF, I loved the dynamic of Dom, Kami and Angel.
Between me, Angel and Kami, we were more nuts than Almond Joy, and we still managed to find each other in this big, wide, crazy world.
There is love. Even when Dom and Raven might not have wanted to admit it, their love started much earlier than either one thought. And it only developed as they became friends of sorts and Raven started to trust Dom. That attraction was always there, but the trust took time. When it finally happened and they were able to open up to one another, it was a glorious thing.
“I want to be anywhere else too… with you.”
Sometimes the happiest endings don’t have the most beautiful journeys. This story was raw, it was real and at times intense. I loved the strength of these characters and how they fought to get through their issues and overcome their pasts. Jenning’s writing is wonderful. She excels at these emotional and captivating stories.
Afraid to Fly is a powerful read. It’s got characters who are broken and damaged but find a way to move past it. It’s a love story, but it’s much more than that. Books like this make me think, make me feel, and inspire me. I highly recommend this book and I hope there is more to come with this series.
You are not your past. You are not your pain. You are kindness and strength and beauty. You are love.
“You’re bigger than my fear, bigger than my pain. You’re the most perfect part of me.”
May 26, 2015
“What was wrong cannot be made right. What was broken cannot be fixed. What was dirty cannot be erased.”
These are Dominic Trevino’s truths – an understanding that has seeped into his pores and consumed his soul ever since his innocence was stripped from him as a child, and those certainties prevent him from soaring…from rising above the guilt, the shame, the disgust of what he’s done and who he is.
Dominic’s a man whose quest for acceptance, a connection of any kind forces him to pursue any form of solace he can find. His need for love…his need to be wanted, desired, needed is what he lives for because that’s what he has yearned for ever since he was little.
But Dominic is NOT his past or the monsters that lurk there. He’s more than his hook ups…more than the broken boy inside…he’s simply MORE.
S.L. Jennings does a tremendous job of getting inside Dom's head and allowing readers to understand why he makes the choices that he does because it actually isn't a choice...it's a matter of survival for him...coping with the heinous acts done to him. He’s been the savior for his friends and the kids he works with, but he needs someone to save him, and he needs to be willing to allow that person to accept everything that Dom is and still want him despite his past…despite his pain. And Raven West wants that job…but they both have to be willing to move forward and overcome the obstacles that are in their way, which are mostly their own insecurities and pasts.
Dom’s journey to fly is filled with pain, heartbreak, and shame. It’s not an easy read because of his past and the self-deprecation he puts himself through regardless of how much his friends try to prove who he really is and why they love him deeply. It’s a slow process with numerous ups and downs, which reinforces the reality of Dominic’s situation and his constant struggles to be more than his nickname.
Cami and Angel play an integral part in Dom’s self-discovery, which makes the story that much better because readers get to see Kami and Blaine’s relationship grow and hopefully, Jennings will give readers Angel’s story, and she’ll find the love that she deserves
A complimentary copy was provided in exchange for an honest review.
4.5 poison apples (The Fairest of All Book Reviews)
These are Dominic Trevino’s truths – an understanding that has seeped into his pores and consumed his soul ever since his innocence was stripped from him as a child, and those certainties prevent him from soaring…from rising above the guilt, the shame, the disgust of what he’s done and who he is.
Dominic’s a man whose quest for acceptance, a connection of any kind forces him to pursue any form of solace he can find. His need for love…his need to be wanted, desired, needed is what he lives for because that’s what he has yearned for ever since he was little.
But Dominic is NOT his past or the monsters that lurk there. He’s more than his hook ups…more than the broken boy inside…he’s simply MORE.
S.L. Jennings does a tremendous job of getting inside Dom's head and allowing readers to understand why he makes the choices that he does because it actually isn't a choice...it's a matter of survival for him...coping with the heinous acts done to him. He’s been the savior for his friends and the kids he works with, but he needs someone to save him, and he needs to be willing to allow that person to accept everything that Dom is and still want him despite his past…despite his pain. And Raven West wants that job…but they both have to be willing to move forward and overcome the obstacles that are in their way, which are mostly their own insecurities and pasts.
Dom’s journey to fly is filled with pain, heartbreak, and shame. It’s not an easy read because of his past and the self-deprecation he puts himself through regardless of how much his friends try to prove who he really is and why they love him deeply. It’s a slow process with numerous ups and downs, which reinforces the reality of Dominic’s situation and his constant struggles to be more than his nickname.
Cami and Angel play an integral part in Dom’s self-discovery, which makes the story that much better because readers get to see Kami and Blaine’s relationship grow and hopefully, Jennings will give readers Angel’s story, and she’ll find the love that she deserves
A complimentary copy was provided in exchange for an honest review.
4.5 poison apples (The Fairest of All Book Reviews)
September 22, 2015
The writing in Afraid to Fly was exceptional and the story absolutely amazing.
Dom’s story was completely heartbreaking. The flashback scenes were devastating to read, my emotions were all over the place while reading this book but I loved every single page!
Reading this book makes you realize how strong a person really is and what they can conquer when they have someone that loves them.
And I LOVED all the secondary characters!!It was so nice to see Kami happy after what she endured in book 1!
I really hope Angel and Toby will get their books!
August 9, 2015
3 Stars!
After a couple of weeks I've simmered down and I decided to finish ATF so I can rate it. All that I have to add to my original review is that I'm very happy that Dom and Raven got their HEA. I loved Toby's POV at the end. I really hope we get more of him in the future! Like I said before I really did enjoy most of this book. SL Jennings is one of my favorite authors. The book was a 4 star read until the last 20%.
Original review below May 2015
No rating because I didn't finish this book! YES!! I stopped at 87%!! Ugh!
I loved Fear of Falling! It is one of my favorites! I was so excited to get Dom's story and hoping we would get more of Blaine and Kami too.
I was loving this book until around the last 20 - 25%.
First off I was so sad for Dom! He gutted me with his nightmares! I had to stop reading and come back to it later. My emotions were all over the place! I felt so bad for him! Dom this super sweet caring man that never healed from his own abuse. I loved Dom!
Raven this woman was a bitch to Dom. Her reasons for this takes forever to get revealed!! I understood why after the reveal but it still didn't make me like her.
I never felt the love between these two! I just didn't care for her.
Then OMG! How his abuse is revealed to her had me wanting to jump in my kindle and strangle the revealer!!! I had smoke coming out of my nose for sure!! lol
The sad part was the thoughts that went through Ravens head! WTF?!?! I almost said I was done then! My pissed off self was at my limit! But oh no something else happens!
*********SPOILER ALERT!!!!!***********
Loved getting more of Blaine and Kami!!
Hope we get a book about Angel and Toby. Now that would be awesome:)
Maybe later on I might try to finish this one. Maybe! lol (I did Finish it:))
Love SL Jennings and this book will not stop me from reading more of her books. I just didn't care for a few things in this one:((
Want to Read
May 6, 2016
FREE on Amazon US today (5/5/2016)
Hulloooo hottie on cover! Stand-alone book 2.
BLURB:
Dominic Trevino had been called a lot of things.
Manwhore.
Womanizer.
Slut.
But he was most notoriously known as Dirty Dom.
Because that was who he was…for the most part.
It just wasn’t all he was.
His tortured past was as stained as his licentious reputation, and that was exactly how he’d designed it. It was the only way he knew how to cope with the ghosts that still kept him caged in horror and self-loathing. But the day Raven came tearing into his life—her temper as hot as her teeny tiny shorts—he knew he could never be placated with faceless hook-ups again. Still, he couldn’t let her see who—and what—he really was inside.
Raven freed him from his past…freed him from his pain.
She saved him.
Even though she didn’t believe he was even worth saving.
https://www.amazon.com/Afraid-Fly-Fea...
FREEBIES are often good for MORE than one day, I have gathered all my FREEBIES on a special shelf: Kindle-freebies (currently over 500 books)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/list...
November 6, 2020
Recensione sulla mia pagina Bookstagram
https://www.instagram.com/p/CHQRBclqw...
4,5 stelline
Dominic era il migliore amico dii Kami, protagonista indiscussa in Paura di cadere. Era un ragazzo tenebroso, ma sfacciato e impertinente; conduceva abitualmente una vita dissoluta fatta di eccessi, permettendo solo a Kami e Angel di entrare nel suo cuore:
«Eravamo come una maledetta famigliola felice. Il puttaniere, il muto e la misantropa. Era come una brutta sitcom in TV».
Tutti e tre si portavano dietro il pesante fardello di un passato doloroso o terrificante. Si erano riconosciuti, come persone rotte e spezzate, e ognuno affrontava i propri fantasmi nell’unico modo che conosceva. Le persone come loro erano più sensibili degli altri. Fidarsi di qualcuno al punto da raccontare i propri tormenti era troppo da sopportare, ma Kami, Dom e Angel, erano il porto sicuro l’uno per l’altro.
In particolare Dom non lasciava spazio all’amore, solo divertimento e storie non importanti. Il suo unico interesse era prendersi cura dei ragazzi problematici che venivano mandati al centro presso il quale prestava servizio.
Qui un giorno arrivò Toby, un ragazzino silenzioso dallo sguardo triste e vuoto, la sua storia era pura sofferenza e Dom decise che lo avrebbe aiutato a superare le sue evidenti difficoltà. La sorella era Raven, una bellissima ragazza che fin dal primo incontro non nascose l’avversione nei suoi confronti.
«Non volevo odiare lui, o nessun altro se era per quello. Ero stanca di chiudere fuori il mondo. E tanto tempo fa, ero una ragazza con le stelle negli occhi, ingenua e ottimista con tutta la vita davanti. Ma tutto era cambiato in una sera».
E l’uomo che aveva deciso di prendersi cura di suo fratello, fissandola con quegli occhi nocciola striati di verde contornati da ciglia folte, aveva rappresentato per Raven il colpo di grazia.
I protagonisti indossano delle maschere. Entrambi sono molto di più di quel che mostrano, ma straziati da eventi dolorosi, hanno preferito chiudere il loro cuore per tutelare la propria serenità, e per mantenere intatto quell’equilibrio mentale che con molta difficoltà sono riusciti a conquistare.
In questo racconto si parla molto anche di Kami ed Angel, e devo ammettere che ho amato moltissimo il rapporto che hanno saputo costruire, ognuna a modo suo, con Dominic, un uomo sfacciato e oscuro, ma dall’animo fragile.
https://www.instagram.com/p/CHQRBclqw...
4,5 stelline
Dominic era il migliore amico dii Kami, protagonista indiscussa in Paura di cadere. Era un ragazzo tenebroso, ma sfacciato e impertinente; conduceva abitualmente una vita dissoluta fatta di eccessi, permettendo solo a Kami e Angel di entrare nel suo cuore:
«Eravamo come una maledetta famigliola felice. Il puttaniere, il muto e la misantropa. Era come una brutta sitcom in TV».
Tutti e tre si portavano dietro il pesante fardello di un passato doloroso o terrificante. Si erano riconosciuti, come persone rotte e spezzate, e ognuno affrontava i propri fantasmi nell’unico modo che conosceva. Le persone come loro erano più sensibili degli altri. Fidarsi di qualcuno al punto da raccontare i propri tormenti era troppo da sopportare, ma Kami, Dom e Angel, erano il porto sicuro l’uno per l’altro.
In particolare Dom non lasciava spazio all’amore, solo divertimento e storie non importanti. Il suo unico interesse era prendersi cura dei ragazzi problematici che venivano mandati al centro presso il quale prestava servizio.
Qui un giorno arrivò Toby, un ragazzino silenzioso dallo sguardo triste e vuoto, la sua storia era pura sofferenza e Dom decise che lo avrebbe aiutato a superare le sue evidenti difficoltà. La sorella era Raven, una bellissima ragazza che fin dal primo incontro non nascose l’avversione nei suoi confronti.
«Non volevo odiare lui, o nessun altro se era per quello. Ero stanca di chiudere fuori il mondo. E tanto tempo fa, ero una ragazza con le stelle negli occhi, ingenua e ottimista con tutta la vita davanti. Ma tutto era cambiato in una sera».
E l’uomo che aveva deciso di prendersi cura di suo fratello, fissandola con quegli occhi nocciola striati di verde contornati da ciglia folte, aveva rappresentato per Raven il colpo di grazia.
I protagonisti indossano delle maschere. Entrambi sono molto di più di quel che mostrano, ma straziati da eventi dolorosi, hanno preferito chiudere il loro cuore per tutelare la propria serenità, e per mantenere intatto quell’equilibrio mentale che con molta difficoltà sono riusciti a conquistare.
In questo racconto si parla molto anche di Kami ed Angel, e devo ammettere che ho amato moltissimo il rapporto che hanno saputo costruire, ognuna a modo suo, con Dominic, un uomo sfacciato e oscuro, ma dall’animo fragile.
November 1, 2020
Anche in questo caso non ho apprezzato come sono state affrontate certe tematiche, l’idea sarà anche quella di un libro “serio” ma alla fine mi sembra si resti sempre troppo sul superficiale (e anche banale spesso) per esserlo realmente. Continua a non convincermi questa autrice.
August 6, 2015
5 'Brave' Stars!!
My Dominic Trevino and Raven West...
Dominic and Raven are my favourite couple EVER. ❤️
My favourite thing Dom said...
My Dominic Trevino and Raven West...
Dominic and Raven are my favourite couple EVER. ❤️
My favourite thing Dom said...
Want to Read
April 16, 2015I have been waiting for this book since 2013!!!
May 26, 2015
*I received an ARC courtesy of the author in exchange for an honest review*
2.5 Stars
WARNING part of this review could be considered spoilery. Read at your own risk.
Dom’s story was completely heartbreaking. The flashback scenes were devastating to read. The fact that Dom is still suffering, and is tortured by nightmares and lack of self-worth was extremely sad. Fair warning grab the tissues my heart broke for Dom and I am sure yours will too. I will advise to anyone that has a hard time reading graphic abuse to children you may have a hard time with certain parts. I would like to point out this was not my issue with the story.
Dom is extremely damaged, and he isn’t coping in his life AT ALL. Although he thinks he has fooled his friends into thinking he is okay. He is starved for love, lives with nightmares that bring him to his knees, and continues to use sex as a very, very temporary coping mechanism.
Dom works at a non-profit organization that helps at risk youth. His director asks him to take on the case of 12 year old Toby Christian. Toby is a selective mute who is having trouble in group settings, and can’t connect to people. The roadblock in Dom’s way of helping Toby is the boys sister Raven who at first meeting hates Dom. But Dom is great for Toby, and they slowly start making progress. Even though Raven still hates him she allows the contact because it is helping Toby.
Raven is where the story lost me. You will learn quickly that Raven knows Dom from the past, although she won’t tell Dom how he destroyed her life. This goes on for about 70% of the book so needless to say I wasn’t sold on them as a couple. At this point I knew the ending would be rushed to resolve them getting a HEA. At one point I feared a cliffy was coming because I couldn’t figure out where they were going. Then it was almost like a flip was switched and Raven starts viewing Dom differently.
So in a completely OTT reveal Raven learns about Dom’s past. I actually had to put my kindle down for a bit. I really couldn’t believe this was how she was going to find out about the abuse he suffered. The thoughts that go through Raven’s head after this reveal were disturbing to me. Dom still hasn't dealt with any of the demons from his past, so the humiliating way his story came out just sends him into a tail spin. His self-hatred escalates, the whoring continues, and he lives in fear that he will become his Uncle. Raven finally tells Dom what he did to her, and IMO it paled in comparison to what haunts Dom. I am not saying it wasn’t traumatic to a teenager but she came across so mean that I couldn’t feel for her. All of this happening the last 30% felt extremely rushed. From Kami getting through to Dom, to the grand gesture made by Dom I just wasn't invested.
Final thoughts: I did love Dom and after the tragedy he suffered I thought he deserved better. I am sad that I didn’t get a resolution on Toby. I felt we were left hanging as to what was going on with him. I did love catching up with Kami, Blaine, and Angel. CJ and Victoria were unexpected but they worked and it added some fun to the story.
2.5 Stars
WARNING part of this review could be considered spoilery. Read at your own risk.
Dom’s story was completely heartbreaking. The flashback scenes were devastating to read. The fact that Dom is still suffering, and is tortured by nightmares and lack of self-worth was extremely sad. Fair warning grab the tissues my heart broke for Dom and I am sure yours will too. I will advise to anyone that has a hard time reading graphic abuse to children you may have a hard time with certain parts. I would like to point out this was not my issue with the story.
Dom is extremely damaged, and he isn’t coping in his life AT ALL. Although he thinks he has fooled his friends into thinking he is okay. He is starved for love, lives with nightmares that bring him to his knees, and continues to use sex as a very, very temporary coping mechanism.
Dom works at a non-profit organization that helps at risk youth. His director asks him to take on the case of 12 year old Toby Christian. Toby is a selective mute who is having trouble in group settings, and can’t connect to people. The roadblock in Dom’s way of helping Toby is the boys sister Raven who at first meeting hates Dom. But Dom is great for Toby, and they slowly start making progress. Even though Raven still hates him she allows the contact because it is helping Toby.
Raven is where the story lost me. You will learn quickly that Raven knows Dom from the past, although she won’t tell Dom how he destroyed her life. This goes on for about 70% of the book so needless to say I wasn’t sold on them as a couple. At this point I knew the ending would be rushed to resolve them getting a HEA. At one point I feared a cliffy was coming because I couldn’t figure out where they were going. Then it was almost like a flip was switched and Raven starts viewing Dom differently.
So in a completely OTT reveal Raven learns about Dom’s past. I actually had to put my kindle down for a bit. I really couldn’t believe this was how she was going to find out about the abuse he suffered. The thoughts that go through Raven’s head after this reveal were disturbing to me. Dom still hasn't dealt with any of the demons from his past, so the humiliating way his story came out just sends him into a tail spin. His self-hatred escalates, the whoring continues, and he lives in fear that he will become his Uncle. Raven finally tells Dom what he did to her, and IMO it paled in comparison to what haunts Dom. I am not saying it wasn’t traumatic to a teenager but she came across so mean that I couldn’t feel for her. All of this happening the last 30% felt extremely rushed. From Kami getting through to Dom, to the grand gesture made by Dom I just wasn't invested.
Final thoughts: I did love Dom and after the tragedy he suffered I thought he deserved better. I am sad that I didn’t get a resolution on Toby. I felt we were left hanging as to what was going on with him. I did love catching up with Kami, Blaine, and Angel. CJ and Victoria were unexpected but they worked and it added some fun to the story.
Want to Read
May 19, 2015OMG, I LOVE this cover and this blurb sounds AMAZING!! Definitely my emotional kind of read! :D Release day: 26 May.
Blurb:
I’d like to tell you that I’m ok.
That the meaningless sex with countless women has somehow numbed the pain. That it’s deciphered the constant confusion in my head. Eased the self-hatred that sinks into my gut every time I look in the mirror.
I’d like to tell you that time heals all wounds.
That we evolve and grow into well-adjusted, stable adults, set on a path to right the world’s wrongs. That we are not our past…we are not our pain.
I want to tell you all those things. Hell, I want to believe all those things. But I’d be lying. I’m good at that. Living a lie is the only way I truly know how to survive.
But the day I saw her, I stopped surviving. I stopped existing. And for the first time in 24 years, I started living.
She brought me back to life. Set me free and sent my soul soaring. Made this useless shell of a man feel like…something. Something whole and real and good.
She saved me.
Although she believes I wasn’t even worth saving.
Blurb:
I’d like to tell you that I’m ok.
That the meaningless sex with countless women has somehow numbed the pain. That it’s deciphered the constant confusion in my head. Eased the self-hatred that sinks into my gut every time I look in the mirror.
I’d like to tell you that time heals all wounds.
That we evolve and grow into well-adjusted, stable adults, set on a path to right the world’s wrongs. That we are not our past…we are not our pain.
I want to tell you all those things. Hell, I want to believe all those things. But I’d be lying. I’m good at that. Living a lie is the only way I truly know how to survive.
But the day I saw her, I stopped surviving. I stopped existing. And for the first time in 24 years, I started living.
She brought me back to life. Set me free and sent my soul soaring. Made this useless shell of a man feel like…something. Something whole and real and good.
She saved me.
Although she believes I wasn’t even worth saving.
May 9, 2017
**Re-read: 9 May 2017**
Changing my rating to 4 stars LOL. I did enjoy this book, but I didn't realise how many OW scenes there were. Jesus. I understood Dom's need for sex yes...but every nitty gritty detail...whhhy.
And when's the next book for this series!?
**First review: 25 July 2015**
This was beautiful. Tortured. Judged. Misunderstood. Dominic is one hell of a character that has been through so much. Still a small boy who was a victim trapped in a hot, gorgeous body.
Still letting his past dictate his present, until Raven.
Raven's hate for Dom was like "girl what's your problem!?" But finding out her reason was like ...oohhh....yeah I'd probably hate Dom too.
This story was honestly beautiful and I really can't wait for Toby's book!
Changing my rating to 4 stars LOL. I did enjoy this book, but I didn't realise how many OW scenes there were. Jesus. I understood Dom's need for sex yes...but every nitty gritty detail...whhhy.
And when's the next book for this series!?
**First review: 25 July 2015**
This was beautiful. Tortured. Judged. Misunderstood. Dominic is one hell of a character that has been through so much. Still a small boy who was a victim trapped in a hot, gorgeous body.
Still letting his past dictate his present, until Raven.
Raven's hate for Dom was like "girl what's your problem!?" But finding out her reason was like ...oohhh....yeah I'd probably hate Dom too.
This story was honestly beautiful and I really can't wait for Toby's book!
November 8, 2020
indimenticabile !!!
Dopo PAURA DI CADERE attendevo con trepidazione il secondo volume di questa dilogia così intensa. Ed ecco finalmente il racconto della vita di Dominic in tutta la sua cruda verità.
“Bloccato in quello stato permanente di odio in cui il dolore regna sovrano, e io ero solo un umile capro espiatorio, che nutriva i mostri del mio passato con la mia colpa e la mia vergogna…. Dove il rimpianto era il mio unico amico, ed era un bastardo figlio di puttana”
Dominic, fascino latino, per lui dono e maledizione, non ha bisogno di mentire alle donne: lui le usa e basta. O forse… si fa usare. Una al giorno. Solo sesso. Senza coinvolgimenti.
Tanto rassicurante e protettivo di giorno nel suo lavoro in un centro per ragazzi problematici, quanto dissoluto e irrequieto di notte, quando le ombre avvolgono le luci della città e abbracciano la sua anima inquieta, Dominic è un uomo che lavora instancabilmente per provare ad avere un unico obiettivo, ovvero rafforzare l’idea, nella sua mente incasinata dai demoni del passato, che il sesso non è una dimostrazione di intimità legata alle emozioni o all’amore, ma un semplice atto liberatorio di virilità. Intrappolato in quella che ho percepito essere una sorta di Sindrome di Stoccolma e trincerato dietro la sicurezza dei soli veri affetti d’amicizia che possiede, vive in modo meccanico non lasciando spazio a sentimenti profondi per paura che lo deluderanno e potrebbero annientare la sua già labile sfera emotiva. Legato da un bisogno costante di dimostrare il suo essere maschio, usa e si fa usare da ogni tipo di donna, cercando in ogni modo di donare col suo corpo solo ed esclusivamente piacere, liberandosi da ogni inibizione per poi ripiombare nei suoi incubi notturni che lo dilaniano e gli fanno rivivere gli anni più dolorosi della sua infanzia.
“Mi prendevo il tempo necessario per assicurarmi che tutte le donne che avevano il privilegio di adornare il mio letto e occupare il mio tempo fossero completamente soddisfatte. Era la giusta ricompensa per la distrazione che mi avevano fornito”
Dietro tutto ciò, la necessità assoluta di non permettere al passato di farlo a pezzi e di creare nel presente un qualcosa che possa permettergli di andare avanti, di sentirsi bene, di essere forte e sentirsi al sicuro da sé stesso e dal profondo senso di vergogna, suo compagno di vita. Terminate le sue prestazioni però c’è l’alba da guadagnare, attraversando il buio della notte che porta con sé il dialogo col subconscio di cui nessuno è padrone e in cui non vige potere di controllo. Buio in cui riaffiorano attraverso lacrime incontrollabili i ricordi più struggenti che tornano a galla facendo riemergere dubbi, offuscando le certezze, alimentando il disgusto verso sé stesso. E affermando un bisogno d’amore così grande e incolmabile e talmente irraggiungibile da spaventarlo e lasciarlo sfinito e senza speranza.
“E piansi per quell’uomo il cui cuore e corpo erano stati spezzati irreparabilmente, che desiderava ardentemente che qualcuno vedesse tutte quelle orribili cicatrici e fratture e non scappasse per il disgusto, ma che invece lo aiutasse a riparare il danno”
Tutto questo fin quando, nel falso mondo di equilibrio sfacciato di Dominic, entra come un tornado la bellissima Raven. E sarà come ricevere una sberla nel sonno. Scioccante. Lei è così bella quanto antipatica, coi suoi modi di fare che non nascondono un odio profondo verso un ragazzo, ormai divenuto adulto, che ha dato inizio alla serie di eventi tragici che hanno stravolto la sua vita. Bella, intelligente, scettica e antipatica. Ecco Raven agli occhi di Dominic che non riesce a giustificare questo atteggiamento così aggressivo da parte di quella strega travestita da fatina, con cui purtroppo dovrà scontrarsi ogni giorno.
“Avevo progettato il mio isolamento appositamente per impedire alle persone ficcanaso come Dominic Trevino di indagare sulla mia vita. Eppure, era riuscito a trovarmi. Quattro miliardi di persone in questo dannato mondo, e lui aveva trovato me”
Raven ha un segreto che se venisse a galla riporterebbe alla luce l’umiliazione con cui convive da anni ed è ben concentrata a far si che le emozioni e gli affetti non diventino suoi compagni di vita. Il suo atteggiamento distaccato, sfrontato e glaciale con tutti, è diventato uno stile di vita che finora l’ha preservata dalle spiegazioni che dovrebbe dare se tutto fosse scoperto. Con Dominic poi, ha un conto in sospeso, che però non vuole regolare. Decisa a tenere le distanze dall’uomo che disprezza più di ogni altra cosa, è altresì costretta a scendere a compromessi quando la vita li mette l’uno di fronte all’altro. E, per il bene di una persona cara ad entrambi, dovranno frequentarsi affrontando verità che non potranno più essere taciute e facendo i conti con la nascita di un sentimento che tendono a soffocare con tutte le loro forze ma che il cuore non potrà respingere.
“Odiavo interpretare il ruolo della stronza; ero stanca di chiudere fuori il mondo. E tanto tempo fa, ero una ragazza con le stelle negli occhi, ingenua e ottimista con tutta la vita davanti a lei”
PAURA DI VOLARE è una storia che esamina la paura della vita, il terrore nell’affrontare demoni che tormentano due anime sfinite dalla finzione e che non riescono a lasciarsi andare al sentimento più bello del mondo.
La sfiducia che i due protagonisti hanno nei confronti del significato dell’amore e nel suo potere, è radicata e inattaccabile. Anche quando le emozioni iniziano a farsi spazio nelle crepe di quei muri di ostinazione che animano il loro mondo di insicurezze emotive, per Raven e Dominic non sarà semplice riuscire a credere in un futuro diverso da quello immaginato. I desideri non possono diventare realtà perché gli ostacoli sono così insormontabili da sembrare impossibili. Ma al cuor non si comanda, e le giornate tutte uguali di Dominic iniziano ad assumere toni colorati che le rendono più speciali, grazie proprio alla presenza di Raven. Giornate in cui il buio viene sostituito dalla luce della speranza e in cui, ai volti di tutte le donne che fino a quel momento erano apparse uguali ai suoi occhi, inizia a sovrapporsi la figura di Raven, frantumando la sicurezza e il suo senso di vergogna per annullare il falso equilibrio che tutte le altre donne gli assicuravano. Non può permettersi il coinvolgimento che vorrebbe, mai cercato, né mai accaduto, ma che ora avviene con una naturalezza sconosciuta che lo terrorizza e porta alla luce l’uomo danneggiato che è e che non potrà mai essere riparato. Fino al momento in cui le forze per lottare cedono e non può più sottrarsi all’avanzare lento di nuove emozioni che lo riporteranno in una dimensione di vita totalmente nuova e sconosciuta e sarà come svegliarsi da un incubo durato anni.
S.L. Jennings con la sua maestria nel descrivere storie di persone danneggiate nell’anima da eventi terribili ma di una forza introspettiva potente, ha saputo anche in questo secondo volume ridefinire i confini tra la forza delle convinzioni e la potenza dei sentimenti.
continua su https://www.vanitiromancebook.com/boo...
Dopo PAURA DI CADERE attendevo con trepidazione il secondo volume di questa dilogia così intensa. Ed ecco finalmente il racconto della vita di Dominic in tutta la sua cruda verità.
“Bloccato in quello stato permanente di odio in cui il dolore regna sovrano, e io ero solo un umile capro espiatorio, che nutriva i mostri del mio passato con la mia colpa e la mia vergogna…. Dove il rimpianto era il mio unico amico, ed era un bastardo figlio di puttana”
Dominic, fascino latino, per lui dono e maledizione, non ha bisogno di mentire alle donne: lui le usa e basta. O forse… si fa usare. Una al giorno. Solo sesso. Senza coinvolgimenti.
Tanto rassicurante e protettivo di giorno nel suo lavoro in un centro per ragazzi problematici, quanto dissoluto e irrequieto di notte, quando le ombre avvolgono le luci della città e abbracciano la sua anima inquieta, Dominic è un uomo che lavora instancabilmente per provare ad avere un unico obiettivo, ovvero rafforzare l’idea, nella sua mente incasinata dai demoni del passato, che il sesso non è una dimostrazione di intimità legata alle emozioni o all’amore, ma un semplice atto liberatorio di virilità. Intrappolato in quella che ho percepito essere una sorta di Sindrome di Stoccolma e trincerato dietro la sicurezza dei soli veri affetti d’amicizia che possiede, vive in modo meccanico non lasciando spazio a sentimenti profondi per paura che lo deluderanno e potrebbero annientare la sua già labile sfera emotiva. Legato da un bisogno costante di dimostrare il suo essere maschio, usa e si fa usare da ogni tipo di donna, cercando in ogni modo di donare col suo corpo solo ed esclusivamente piacere, liberandosi da ogni inibizione per poi ripiombare nei suoi incubi notturni che lo dilaniano e gli fanno rivivere gli anni più dolorosi della sua infanzia.
“Mi prendevo il tempo necessario per assicurarmi che tutte le donne che avevano il privilegio di adornare il mio letto e occupare il mio tempo fossero completamente soddisfatte. Era la giusta ricompensa per la distrazione che mi avevano fornito”
Dietro tutto ciò, la necessità assoluta di non permettere al passato di farlo a pezzi e di creare nel presente un qualcosa che possa permettergli di andare avanti, di sentirsi bene, di essere forte e sentirsi al sicuro da sé stesso e dal profondo senso di vergogna, suo compagno di vita. Terminate le sue prestazioni però c’è l’alba da guadagnare, attraversando il buio della notte che porta con sé il dialogo col subconscio di cui nessuno è padrone e in cui non vige potere di controllo. Buio in cui riaffiorano attraverso lacrime incontrollabili i ricordi più struggenti che tornano a galla facendo riemergere dubbi, offuscando le certezze, alimentando il disgusto verso sé stesso. E affermando un bisogno d’amore così grande e incolmabile e talmente irraggiungibile da spaventarlo e lasciarlo sfinito e senza speranza.
“E piansi per quell’uomo il cui cuore e corpo erano stati spezzati irreparabilmente, che desiderava ardentemente che qualcuno vedesse tutte quelle orribili cicatrici e fratture e non scappasse per il disgusto, ma che invece lo aiutasse a riparare il danno”
Tutto questo fin quando, nel falso mondo di equilibrio sfacciato di Dominic, entra come un tornado la bellissima Raven. E sarà come ricevere una sberla nel sonno. Scioccante. Lei è così bella quanto antipatica, coi suoi modi di fare che non nascondono un odio profondo verso un ragazzo, ormai divenuto adulto, che ha dato inizio alla serie di eventi tragici che hanno stravolto la sua vita. Bella, intelligente, scettica e antipatica. Ecco Raven agli occhi di Dominic che non riesce a giustificare questo atteggiamento così aggressivo da parte di quella strega travestita da fatina, con cui purtroppo dovrà scontrarsi ogni giorno.
“Avevo progettato il mio isolamento appositamente per impedire alle persone ficcanaso come Dominic Trevino di indagare sulla mia vita. Eppure, era riuscito a trovarmi. Quattro miliardi di persone in questo dannato mondo, e lui aveva trovato me”
Raven ha un segreto che se venisse a galla riporterebbe alla luce l’umiliazione con cui convive da anni ed è ben concentrata a far si che le emozioni e gli affetti non diventino suoi compagni di vita. Il suo atteggiamento distaccato, sfrontato e glaciale con tutti, è diventato uno stile di vita che finora l’ha preservata dalle spiegazioni che dovrebbe dare se tutto fosse scoperto. Con Dominic poi, ha un conto in sospeso, che però non vuole regolare. Decisa a tenere le distanze dall’uomo che disprezza più di ogni altra cosa, è altresì costretta a scendere a compromessi quando la vita li mette l’uno di fronte all’altro. E, per il bene di una persona cara ad entrambi, dovranno frequentarsi affrontando verità che non potranno più essere taciute e facendo i conti con la nascita di un sentimento che tendono a soffocare con tutte le loro forze ma che il cuore non potrà respingere.
“Odiavo interpretare il ruolo della stronza; ero stanca di chiudere fuori il mondo. E tanto tempo fa, ero una ragazza con le stelle negli occhi, ingenua e ottimista con tutta la vita davanti a lei”
PAURA DI VOLARE è una storia che esamina la paura della vita, il terrore nell’affrontare demoni che tormentano due anime sfinite dalla finzione e che non riescono a lasciarsi andare al sentimento più bello del mondo.
La sfiducia che i due protagonisti hanno nei confronti del significato dell’amore e nel suo potere, è radicata e inattaccabile. Anche quando le emozioni iniziano a farsi spazio nelle crepe di quei muri di ostinazione che animano il loro mondo di insicurezze emotive, per Raven e Dominic non sarà semplice riuscire a credere in un futuro diverso da quello immaginato. I desideri non possono diventare realtà perché gli ostacoli sono così insormontabili da sembrare impossibili. Ma al cuor non si comanda, e le giornate tutte uguali di Dominic iniziano ad assumere toni colorati che le rendono più speciali, grazie proprio alla presenza di Raven. Giornate in cui il buio viene sostituito dalla luce della speranza e in cui, ai volti di tutte le donne che fino a quel momento erano apparse uguali ai suoi occhi, inizia a sovrapporsi la figura di Raven, frantumando la sicurezza e il suo senso di vergogna per annullare il falso equilibrio che tutte le altre donne gli assicuravano. Non può permettersi il coinvolgimento che vorrebbe, mai cercato, né mai accaduto, ma che ora avviene con una naturalezza sconosciuta che lo terrorizza e porta alla luce l’uomo danneggiato che è e che non potrà mai essere riparato. Fino al momento in cui le forze per lottare cedono e non può più sottrarsi all’avanzare lento di nuove emozioni che lo riporteranno in una dimensione di vita totalmente nuova e sconosciuta e sarà come svegliarsi da un incubo durato anni.
S.L. Jennings con la sua maestria nel descrivere storie di persone danneggiate nell’anima da eventi terribili ma di una forza introspettiva potente, ha saputo anche in questo secondo volume ridefinire i confini tra la forza delle convinzioni e la potenza dei sentimenti.
continua su https://www.vanitiromancebook.com/boo...
May 17, 2015
I gave this 5 stars because it hasn't been released yet and it has a 1 star rating grow up this is a career you're hurting with your unfounded rating.
Read
June 1, 2015review to come
November 12, 2020
Recensione sul blog --> https://www.leggereromanticamente.com...
L’amore che lega questi due protagonisti cresce lentamente, senza rendere le cose frettolose, ed ho apprezzato moltissimo questa scelta dell’autrice.
L’amore che lega questi due protagonisti cresce lentamente, senza rendere le cose frettolose, ed ho apprezzato moltissimo questa scelta dell’autrice.
May 26, 2015
‘“I don’t care about the sins of you body. I only see the light of your soul and the fullness of your heart. That’s all I’ve ever seen. Even that day you saw me- shaking like a leaf in front of that crisis centre- I knew that I would grow to love you. Because there is just something inside you that makes it impossible not to.”’ – So says Kami Duvall the struggling heroine from the first book of her best friend and lost soul Dom.
I knew from the first book that poor misguided Dominic was going to have some awful inner demons to face. The constant need for casual sex, the drinking, it all pointed to him drowning out whatever he didn’t want to feel or think about so I was both intrigued and nervous about reading Afraid to Fly. It was a brilliant story and SL manages to burrow beneath the superficial surface of Dom’s jerky character to give us a man that is both overwhelmed with compassion and love but also with a darkness and crippling self-loathing. It’s only when beautiful and intelligent Raven enters his sphere that the impenetrable shield he shrouds himself in starts to crack and feelings sneak their way in. It truly is a great story with some brilliant and colourful characters littering the way however when I reached three quarters of the way through, the plot started to feel like the same recycled and generic escape hatch. Raven’s character was supposed to come off as strong and determined as she fought valiantly for her man as some other girl was having her way with him in a strip club, first of all gross and second of all I detest cheating in stories and I guess the loop hole here is the fact that this happened when Dom was in his dark I’m pushing people away to save them from my destruction because I don’t deserve love phase and he and Raven were on a break (That age old Ross and Rachel scenario) but it still rankled me and messed up a rather terrific story. I feel like that is such a cop out with stories these days and it makes the female protagonist look weak and flaky when she willingly accepts this type of behaviour because her man has issues. Other than that Afraid to Fly is written well with interesting characters and a great storyline up to a point. I would recommend it and if Angel’s tale is next I’ll still read it.
~Nicole
I knew from the first book that poor misguided Dominic was going to have some awful inner demons to face. The constant need for casual sex, the drinking, it all pointed to him drowning out whatever he didn’t want to feel or think about so I was both intrigued and nervous about reading Afraid to Fly. It was a brilliant story and SL manages to burrow beneath the superficial surface of Dom’s jerky character to give us a man that is both overwhelmed with compassion and love but also with a darkness and crippling self-loathing. It’s only when beautiful and intelligent Raven enters his sphere that the impenetrable shield he shrouds himself in starts to crack and feelings sneak their way in. It truly is a great story with some brilliant and colourful characters littering the way however when I reached three quarters of the way through, the plot started to feel like the same recycled and generic escape hatch. Raven’s character was supposed to come off as strong and determined as she fought valiantly for her man as some other girl was having her way with him in a strip club, first of all gross and second of all I detest cheating in stories and I guess the loop hole here is the fact that this happened when Dom was in his dark I’m pushing people away to save them from my destruction because I don’t deserve love phase and he and Raven were on a break (That age old Ross and Rachel scenario) but it still rankled me and messed up a rather terrific story. I feel like that is such a cop out with stories these days and it makes the female protagonist look weak and flaky when she willingly accepts this type of behaviour because her man has issues. Other than that Afraid to Fly is written well with interesting characters and a great storyline up to a point. I would recommend it and if Angel’s tale is next I’ll still read it.
~Nicole
November 13, 2015
3.5 stars. A follow-up book to "Fear of Falling" which I really liked. There are carryover characters, but this book could easily be read as a standalone.
I'll admit that this book started very slowly for me, almost to the point I didn't want to finish it. But the last half really picked up and provided a real emotional punch. The main characters in this book are Dom and Raven. Dom is a totally messed up young man with a background of just horrible abuse. But, he is trying to help other at risk kids by assisting at an after school activity center. There he meets a young mute boy being raised by his sister, Raven. Dom and the boy get along well and Dom is successful in starting to draw the boy out of his shell. His sister, Raven, is another story. She seems to hate Dom but as far as Dom know they have never met and he is totally confused.
The last half of the story is where we find out how Raven and Dom know each other and also about the tons of baggage Dom is carrying around because of his past, and this last half is an outstanding, emotional read. So just put up with the slow start and you will be well rewarded.
I'll admit that this book started very slowly for me, almost to the point I didn't want to finish it. But the last half really picked up and provided a real emotional punch. The main characters in this book are Dom and Raven. Dom is a totally messed up young man with a background of just horrible abuse. But, he is trying to help other at risk kids by assisting at an after school activity center. There he meets a young mute boy being raised by his sister, Raven. Dom and the boy get along well and Dom is successful in starting to draw the boy out of his shell. His sister, Raven, is another story. She seems to hate Dom but as far as Dom know they have never met and he is totally confused.
The last half of the story is where we find out how Raven and Dom know each other and also about the tons of baggage Dom is carrying around because of his past, and this last half is an outstanding, emotional read. So just put up with the slow start and you will be well rewarded.
November 9, 2020
4 stelle e 1/2
💋Recensione per il blog New Adult e dintorni 💋
A poche settimane dall’uscita del primo capitolo della Fearless Series la Jennings torna per consegnarci un protagonista maschile molto intenso, chi ha letto il primo libro non può proprio perdersi le vicende di Dom e Raven.
Dominic Trevino è in una delle sue solite serate di sesso e alcol al Pink Kitty, è un'abitudine da tanti anni ormai, l’unico modo per distoglierlo da quell’onta che pesa sulla sua anima: il ribrezzo e la vergogna per un’infanzia fatta di violenze e soprusi da chi doveva volergli bene.
Una cameriera dai vestiti succinti ma dallo sguardo arrabbiato sta per rimetterlo il riga, niente occhi dolci o fascino latino che tenga, per lui è un due di picche che gli brucia più del dovuto. Forse una vecchia conoscenza nella marea di ragazze che l’avevano accompagnato nelle notti peccaminose senza nessun domani oppure semplicemente un’antipatia a pelle ma una brutta e amara sensazione lo riporterà nel baratro delle sue eterne insicurezze.
‘Nonostante la durezza del suo sguardo accigliato, c’era qualcosa di dolce e aggraziato in lei. Incantevole. Come un agnello travestito da leone.’
Raven West non ci può credere, uno dei suoi più spaventosi fantasmi del passato è tornato e lei può finalmente reclamare la sua vendetta. Maledetto Dominic e il suo fascino, maledetto lui che ci sa fare con il fratellino Toby che frequenta proprio il centro di recupero minorile dove Dom lavora. Ci sa fare con i più deboli e gli indifesi e Raven non può che soccombere a quella scintilla che piano a piano sta diventando un vero e proprio incendio dentro il suo cuore danneggiato che palpita ancora per quel puttaniere chiamato Dirty Dom, inaspettatamente pieno di sentimenti.
‘Volevo la follia del desiderio. Volevo la smania, incontrollabile, incontenibile. Volevo la sua pazzia, i lati brutti, il suo tormento. E volevo dargli i miei in cambio.’
Dom è un ragazzo ferito, danneggiato che colma il vuoto interiore con sesso sfrenato e mai appagante fino in fondo, è doloroso vederlo tentennare davanti al tentativo di preservare l’unica cosa bella che gli sia mai capitata, Raven per l’appunto.
‘E ogni volta che la guardavo negli occhi, sentivo il vento sotto le braccia e il sole alle spalle. Inclinavo la testa verso il cielo e sentivo la dolcezza nell’aria. E con lei e Toby al mio fianco, potevo volare.’
Raven è una vera rivelazione, forte, carismatica e sola, fare da genitore a un fratello speciale e il rimorso di non aver fatto abbastanza sono un fardello enorme da portare. I soldi non bastano mai tra il tirocinio come infermiera di giorno e il lavoro come cameriera sexy di sera, ma la passione ritrovata per la fotografia e una possibile serenità amorosa grazie a Dom potrebbero essere l’illusione di un futuro felice e meritato.
Ritroviamo il trio delle meraviglie, Kami che è più un’anima gemella per Dom che un’amica e Angel, coinquilina di Dom che riesce ad aiutarlo durante i suoi incubi e i tre insieme sono inseparabili.
Il sesso scorre a fiumi ed è palpabile il senso di frustrazione provato da Dom prima dell'incontro con Raven: quando si incontrano la differenza è lampante, amore e sesso si fonderanno e per Dom sarà una toccante prima volta.
La Jennings ha scritto una dilogia diversa dalle solite, le emozioni e l’originalità delle trame sono state un inevitabile successo e spero di trovarla presto con altri libri.
Avrei voluto anche un capitolo su Angel e le sue innegabili fragilità, intanto vi consiglio questo romanzo con tutti i colpi di scena che la vera identità di Raven porterà a galla
💋Recensione per il blog New Adult e dintorni 💋
A poche settimane dall’uscita del primo capitolo della Fearless Series la Jennings torna per consegnarci un protagonista maschile molto intenso, chi ha letto il primo libro non può proprio perdersi le vicende di Dom e Raven.
Dominic Trevino è in una delle sue solite serate di sesso e alcol al Pink Kitty, è un'abitudine da tanti anni ormai, l’unico modo per distoglierlo da quell’onta che pesa sulla sua anima: il ribrezzo e la vergogna per un’infanzia fatta di violenze e soprusi da chi doveva volergli bene.
Una cameriera dai vestiti succinti ma dallo sguardo arrabbiato sta per rimetterlo il riga, niente occhi dolci o fascino latino che tenga, per lui è un due di picche che gli brucia più del dovuto. Forse una vecchia conoscenza nella marea di ragazze che l’avevano accompagnato nelle notti peccaminose senza nessun domani oppure semplicemente un’antipatia a pelle ma una brutta e amara sensazione lo riporterà nel baratro delle sue eterne insicurezze.
‘Nonostante la durezza del suo sguardo accigliato, c’era qualcosa di dolce e aggraziato in lei. Incantevole. Come un agnello travestito da leone.’
Raven West non ci può credere, uno dei suoi più spaventosi fantasmi del passato è tornato e lei può finalmente reclamare la sua vendetta. Maledetto Dominic e il suo fascino, maledetto lui che ci sa fare con il fratellino Toby che frequenta proprio il centro di recupero minorile dove Dom lavora. Ci sa fare con i più deboli e gli indifesi e Raven non può che soccombere a quella scintilla che piano a piano sta diventando un vero e proprio incendio dentro il suo cuore danneggiato che palpita ancora per quel puttaniere chiamato Dirty Dom, inaspettatamente pieno di sentimenti.
‘Volevo la follia del desiderio. Volevo la smania, incontrollabile, incontenibile. Volevo la sua pazzia, i lati brutti, il suo tormento. E volevo dargli i miei in cambio.’
Dom è un ragazzo ferito, danneggiato che colma il vuoto interiore con sesso sfrenato e mai appagante fino in fondo, è doloroso vederlo tentennare davanti al tentativo di preservare l’unica cosa bella che gli sia mai capitata, Raven per l’appunto.
‘E ogni volta che la guardavo negli occhi, sentivo il vento sotto le braccia e il sole alle spalle. Inclinavo la testa verso il cielo e sentivo la dolcezza nell’aria. E con lei e Toby al mio fianco, potevo volare.’
Raven è una vera rivelazione, forte, carismatica e sola, fare da genitore a un fratello speciale e il rimorso di non aver fatto abbastanza sono un fardello enorme da portare. I soldi non bastano mai tra il tirocinio come infermiera di giorno e il lavoro come cameriera sexy di sera, ma la passione ritrovata per la fotografia e una possibile serenità amorosa grazie a Dom potrebbero essere l’illusione di un futuro felice e meritato.
Ritroviamo il trio delle meraviglie, Kami che è più un’anima gemella per Dom che un’amica e Angel, coinquilina di Dom che riesce ad aiutarlo durante i suoi incubi e i tre insieme sono inseparabili.
Il sesso scorre a fiumi ed è palpabile il senso di frustrazione provato da Dom prima dell'incontro con Raven: quando si incontrano la differenza è lampante, amore e sesso si fonderanno e per Dom sarà una toccante prima volta.
La Jennings ha scritto una dilogia diversa dalle solite, le emozioni e l’originalità delle trame sono state un inevitabile successo e spero di trovarla presto con altri libri.
Avrei voluto anche un capitolo su Angel e le sue innegabili fragilità, intanto vi consiglio questo romanzo con tutti i colpi di scena che la vera identità di Raven porterà a galla
November 9, 2020
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Recensione a cura di Luceliu
Finalmente vi posso parlare del romanzo che ho aspettato moltissimo, devo dire che ha superato di gran lunga le mie aspettative, vi parlo di “Paura di volare”di S.L.Jennings edito Hope Edizioni.
È la storia di Dominic Treviso personaggio che avevamo già conosciuto in Paura di cadere.
Un protagonista strepitoso, costruito è caratterizzato in tutte le sue sfumature, un passato doloroso che lo dilania, una lotta continua contro i mostri che gli vivono dentro, una sofferenza tale che nessuno dovrebbe mai portare. Una fragilità interiore che solo chi scava a fondo può vedere.
Si divide tra il sesso, una donna diversa ogni sera e il lavoro al centro giovanile, lavoro che lo aiuta ad avere un equilibrio e a superare i suoi dolori aiutando gli altri a superare le loro sofferenze.
L’incontro con Raven scombinerà la sua vita, e la nostra brava Jennings ci accompagnerà con il suo stile straordinariamente perfetto nella loro storia d’amore, che vedremo crescere pian piano, abbattere i muri che anni di sofferenza hanno innalzato.
Ho adorato come sia riuscita a raccontarci un personaggio così complicato, così difficile da riconoscerne la sua vulnerabilità, così bravo ad entrare in empatia con i ragazzini sofferenti.
Un libro che tocca l’anima , che ti prende fin dalla prima pagina, una storia che ti stringe il cuore per poi regalarti un finale emozionante.
Grazie a S.L. Jennings per le bellissime emozioni che come sempre riesce a scatenare.
Posso solo dirvi che è un romanzo che non potete perdervi e che dovete assolutamente leggere e se ancora non lo avete fatto recuperate anche il primo volume e mi ringrazierete di avervi fatto conoscere questa strepitosa autrice.
Recensione a cura di Luceliu
Finalmente vi posso parlare del romanzo che ho aspettato moltissimo, devo dire che ha superato di gran lunga le mie aspettative, vi parlo di “Paura di volare”di S.L.Jennings edito Hope Edizioni.
È la storia di Dominic Treviso personaggio che avevamo già conosciuto in Paura di cadere.
Un protagonista strepitoso, costruito è caratterizzato in tutte le sue sfumature, un passato doloroso che lo dilania, una lotta continua contro i mostri che gli vivono dentro, una sofferenza tale che nessuno dovrebbe mai portare. Una fragilità interiore che solo chi scava a fondo può vedere.
Si divide tra il sesso, una donna diversa ogni sera e il lavoro al centro giovanile, lavoro che lo aiuta ad avere un equilibrio e a superare i suoi dolori aiutando gli altri a superare le loro sofferenze.
L’incontro con Raven scombinerà la sua vita, e la nostra brava Jennings ci accompagnerà con il suo stile straordinariamente perfetto nella loro storia d’amore, che vedremo crescere pian piano, abbattere i muri che anni di sofferenza hanno innalzato.
Ho adorato come sia riuscita a raccontarci un personaggio così complicato, così difficile da riconoscerne la sua vulnerabilità, così bravo ad entrare in empatia con i ragazzini sofferenti.
Un libro che tocca l’anima , che ti prende fin dalla prima pagina, una storia che ti stringe il cuore per poi regalarti un finale emozionante.
Grazie a S.L. Jennings per le bellissime emozioni che come sempre riesce a scatenare.
Posso solo dirvi che è un romanzo che non potete perdervi e che dovete assolutamente leggere e se ancora non lo avete fatto recuperate anche il primo volume e mi ringrazierete di avervi fatto conoscere questa strepitosa autrice.
November 8, 2020
RECENSIONE COMPLETA: https://loveisinthebookblog.blogspot....
Una storia che mi ha fatto provare una valanga di emozioni e il termine che ho scelto non è assolutamente casuale. Mi sono sentita travolta, senza alcun appiglio a cui riuscire ad arrampicarmi.
La Jennings è riuscita a stupirmi e a superarsi in questo libro, e io sono enormemente soddisfatta perché sapevo benissimo che aveva il potenziale per scrivere storie che mi avrebbero devastata.
Una scrittura semplice, caratterizzata da dialoghi e descrizioni che si alternano in modo armonioso. Ho trovato la maturazione dei personaggi equilibrata e adatta alle situazioni; la caratterizzazione psicologica giusta, e questa volta la Jennings è riuscita dove nel primo volume aveva peccato a parer mio.
Mi è piaciuto tantissimo anche il fatto di ritrovare tutti i personaggi di Paura di cadere e di vederli da un altro punto di vista, più belli e più felici che mai.
Miei cari lettori, lasciatevi dire che Paura di volare di S.L. Jennings è una di quelle storie che vi ruberanno il cuore e che ve lo ridurranno a brandelli, ma voglio dirvi anche che Dom e Raven vi insegneranno che è possibile imparare a ballare anche quando si è sul ciglio di un burrone. Vi faranno capire che buttarsi e lanciarsi da una scogliera con la persona giusta non significa precipitare a valle, ma spiccare il volo verso l’infinito.
Una storia che mi ha fatto provare una valanga di emozioni e il termine che ho scelto non è assolutamente casuale. Mi sono sentita travolta, senza alcun appiglio a cui riuscire ad arrampicarmi.
La Jennings è riuscita a stupirmi e a superarsi in questo libro, e io sono enormemente soddisfatta perché sapevo benissimo che aveva il potenziale per scrivere storie che mi avrebbero devastata.
Una scrittura semplice, caratterizzata da dialoghi e descrizioni che si alternano in modo armonioso. Ho trovato la maturazione dei personaggi equilibrata e adatta alle situazioni; la caratterizzazione psicologica giusta, e questa volta la Jennings è riuscita dove nel primo volume aveva peccato a parer mio.
Mi è piaciuto tantissimo anche il fatto di ritrovare tutti i personaggi di Paura di cadere e di vederli da un altro punto di vista, più belli e più felici che mai.
Miei cari lettori, lasciatevi dire che Paura di volare di S.L. Jennings è una di quelle storie che vi ruberanno il cuore e che ve lo ridurranno a brandelli, ma voglio dirvi anche che Dom e Raven vi insegneranno che è possibile imparare a ballare anche quando si è sul ciglio di un burrone. Vi faranno capire che buttarsi e lanciarsi da una scogliera con la persona giusta non significa precipitare a valle, ma spiccare il volo verso l’infinito.
March 22, 2019
Beautiful, beautiful this story! I love this series!
November 17, 2020
Intenso unico e meraviglioso dom
May 25, 2015
Afraid to Fly is the gut-wrenchingly beautiful follow up to Fear of Falling featuring my favorite character from this series, Dominic.
It's been so long since I read Fear of Falling, I had forgotten just how much I loved this amazing group of characters, especially Dirty Dom. I knew this book would be painful to read as we uncovered his past and I was right.
Dom projects a bit of a bad boy image to the women he hooks up with but he is anything but bad. He's actually one of my favorite male characters, definite book boyfriend material. Outwardly, he has charisma and clean cut sex appeal but inside he is completely broken and has horrible self esteem. Feeling unworthy and incapable of love, he spends his time seeking what little affection he can get from one night stands.
Afraid he will become like the monster who helped raise him, he shys away from any relationships other than his two best friends who he is fiercely protective of. When he meets Raven, he is attracted to her and soon finds himself further drawn to the peace he feels when he's with her and her little brother.
After their secrets come to light, it takes all of Dom's friends to convince him of the beautiful man he really is and talk him into giving love a chance.
Beautiful is the only way to describe this story. The writing flows and each chapter makes you fall more in love with Dom and ache for the little boy trapped inside his heart who just wants to be loved. Raven is a great girl and her little brother's character provided a nice sub-story. Blaine, Kami and Angel are all featured prominently. Blaine's cousin, C.J. provides some comic relief in an otherwise angst filled story.
If you like angst and character driven stories, this is for you. There is some sex but it's not an overtly sexual book despite Dom's recreational activities. This story is all about the emotion. Five beautiful stars!
It's been so long since I read Fear of Falling, I had forgotten just how much I loved this amazing group of characters, especially Dirty Dom. I knew this book would be painful to read as we uncovered his past and I was right.
Dom projects a bit of a bad boy image to the women he hooks up with but he is anything but bad. He's actually one of my favorite male characters, definite book boyfriend material. Outwardly, he has charisma and clean cut sex appeal but inside he is completely broken and has horrible self esteem. Feeling unworthy and incapable of love, he spends his time seeking what little affection he can get from one night stands.
Afraid he will become like the monster who helped raise him, he shys away from any relationships other than his two best friends who he is fiercely protective of. When he meets Raven, he is attracted to her and soon finds himself further drawn to the peace he feels when he's with her and her little brother.
After their secrets come to light, it takes all of Dom's friends to convince him of the beautiful man he really is and talk him into giving love a chance.
Beautiful is the only way to describe this story. The writing flows and each chapter makes you fall more in love with Dom and ache for the little boy trapped inside his heart who just wants to be loved. Raven is a great girl and her little brother's character provided a nice sub-story. Blaine, Kami and Angel are all featured prominently. Blaine's cousin, C.J. provides some comic relief in an otherwise angst filled story.
If you like angst and character driven stories, this is for you. There is some sex but it's not an overtly sexual book despite Dom's recreational activities. This story is all about the emotion. Five beautiful stars!
July 8, 2015
Afraid To Fly was my first S.L. Jennings book ever and I loved it. Won't be my last.
While the subject matter and the main character, Dominic's back story is quite a heavy subject matter, Jennings does a really good job of keeping us afloat without diluting the intensity of the story. Her variety of character personalities is one way she is able to do this. They are sincere character traits that we all can relate to on some level. I love that Dominic wasn't an all out alpha or a total wuss. He was a man's man but he was respectful and had a heart that would make yours melt. Also the inter-character relationships are viable and perfectly ordinary that you get sucked into their every moment together-- laughing, crying, and everything in between. She also breaks up some really heavy moments with humour that fits the scene and the characters. It's humour that you would totally cross into your own everyday life. there were countless times throughout the story that I thought to myself-- yep, #truth or #thatsohappenstothebestofus
I also really enjoyed how Jennings tied in Dominic's career with his back story.
If you've never read an S.L. Jennings book, you might want to change that status. I'm glad I did. I will absolutely read another one of her books. Her stories are well thought out, great timeline and she gives us enough back story to answer any questions but doesn't bombard us with it that you feel like your stuck in the past. Her characters are well layered giving us multidimensional and relatable characters that aren't crazy over the top or overly cliche.
If you want a story that gives you a mix of emotions and tugs at your heart strings with just enough angst that you just might toss your kindle but won't dare because you need to know what happens next, then AFRAID TO FLY is one such story to get your hands on. S.L. Jennings is definitely an author that has been added to my "Definitely Read" authors.
While the subject matter and the main character, Dominic's back story is quite a heavy subject matter, Jennings does a really good job of keeping us afloat without diluting the intensity of the story. Her variety of character personalities is one way she is able to do this. They are sincere character traits that we all can relate to on some level. I love that Dominic wasn't an all out alpha or a total wuss. He was a man's man but he was respectful and had a heart that would make yours melt. Also the inter-character relationships are viable and perfectly ordinary that you get sucked into their every moment together-- laughing, crying, and everything in between. She also breaks up some really heavy moments with humour that fits the scene and the characters. It's humour that you would totally cross into your own everyday life. there were countless times throughout the story that I thought to myself-- yep, #truth or #thatsohappenstothebestofus
I also really enjoyed how Jennings tied in Dominic's career with his back story.
If you've never read an S.L. Jennings book, you might want to change that status. I'm glad I did. I will absolutely read another one of her books. Her stories are well thought out, great timeline and she gives us enough back story to answer any questions but doesn't bombard us with it that you feel like your stuck in the past. Her characters are well layered giving us multidimensional and relatable characters that aren't crazy over the top or overly cliche.
If you want a story that gives you a mix of emotions and tugs at your heart strings with just enough angst that you just might toss your kindle but won't dare because you need to know what happens next, then AFRAID TO FLY is one such story to get your hands on. S.L. Jennings is definitely an author that has been added to my "Definitely Read" authors.
June 1, 2015
Hmm...did I like this book? Mostly, yes. I loved Dom in Fear of Falling and I was excited he was getting his own story. I thought Jennings did a great job with his background. It all came together why he is the way he is. It was believable.
Dom meets Raven at a strip club where she's a waitress. Raven is beautiful and Dom wants her but she's immune to his charm. Ding! Ding! Ding! Can you say challenge? But as the story goes on we get the sense that Raven already knows Dom and it wasn't a pleasant experience. Unfortunately, Raven can't stay away from him though. Raven is the guardian of her little brother, Toby, who is selectively mute. Dom is his assigned counselor at Helping Hands and the two are clicking.
As Raven gets to know this side of Dom she starts to thaw and the two become friends. I liked the slow progression of their relationship and I loved the scenes with Kami and Blaine. But I thought throwing in Amanda to be the catalyst was over the top and out of place. When Raven's secret came out, it was humiliating but I have no idea how she was around Dom for so long without bringing it up. I didn't buy it. I also thought the ending was rushed.
Not as great as book one but it was okay and worth reading.
Dom meets Raven at a strip club where she's a waitress. Raven is beautiful and Dom wants her but she's immune to his charm. Ding! Ding! Ding! Can you say challenge? But as the story goes on we get the sense that Raven already knows Dom and it wasn't a pleasant experience. Unfortunately, Raven can't stay away from him though. Raven is the guardian of her little brother, Toby, who is selectively mute. Dom is his assigned counselor at Helping Hands and the two are clicking.
As Raven gets to know this side of Dom she starts to thaw and the two become friends. I liked the slow progression of their relationship and I loved the scenes with Kami and Blaine. But I thought throwing in Amanda to be the catalyst was over the top and out of place. When Raven's secret came out, it was humiliating but I have no idea how she was around Dom for so long without bringing it up. I didn't buy it. I also thought the ending was rushed.
Not as great as book one but it was okay and worth reading.
May 22, 2015
Well Dirty Dom is no more.
I really enjoyed this baby.
Full Review to come
I really enjoyed this baby.
Full Review to come
June 8, 2015
3.75 stars Review to come
Displaying 1 - 28 of 223 reviews