Hearts are fragile, and mine's been shattered before...
I have always thought of love in the abstract, never something to come true. My past has shown me time after time that those who are supposed to love you will only lead you to disappointment. Destiny, fate, chance...those are things that I have never believed in.
Until him.
A chance encounter with a distinct pair of blue eyes and a heart-melting smile challenges my knowledge of life and love.
Because there's something about this stranger that has me believing in the possibility of more...
Reading is a passion of mine. My love for the written word was rekindled a few years ago, and it's been a blessing to discover everything that is out there. I love a good romantic book, one filled with swoon-worthy heroes and the women who drive them crazy. There aren't too many genres I won't read (sorry horror and scary stories, you still give me nightmares). As long as it drags me into the world to live alongside the characters, I want it!
I've been married since December 2000 to my best friend. Yes we were young, yes people thought I was crazy, but when you know, you know. We had one of those insta-love relationships where we fell hard and never looked back. We have 4 beautiful daughters who drive us a little batty but we still love them!
Ever since I was little, I dabbled in writing, starting with Fanfic of Sweet Valley High (Yes, Jessica and Elizabeth needed some new adventures). In Seventh Grade my teacher submitted a poem I wrote to a national contest and was published in an anthology. I was afraid to turn it in because I never thought I had a chance and yet, it was picked. Writing stories had always been an escape of mine, something to lose myself into or rewrite a bad experience I had to give it a better outcome. There's a little bit of me put into my books so I'm always emotionally attached to them.
A solid debut from Jodie Lawson. The blurb was quite vague so I was unsure what to expect going into the book but this was as story that kept my interest. The setting was London , which I did enjoy despite my intimate knowledge of the place. Tessa is a an American woman on business, supporting her boss and friend in negotiations. She meets Andrew whilst she's there but time is against them. Tessa is not a strong woman, to slight annoyance at times, but there are reasons for her lack of strength. Andrew was likeable and although there was a quick connection between these two, it was acknowledged. I can't deny, I wanted them together. I found some of the English phrasing clunky but I could read past this. The build to the end of this book was compelling and left me wanting more.
A copy of this book was provided by the author in return for an honest review.
A sweet tale of love found abroad that will leave you wanting more.
Fated to be Yours is a wonderfully sweet debut novel. It tells the tale of Tessa, a woman with scars who keeps to herself and is painfully shy, as she accompanies her boss on an overseas work trip. On the flight over, she meets a mysterious and attractive stranger whom she feels an immediate pull towards.
Andrew is a successful businessman in London who travels a lot and therefore hasn’t settled down. He’s drawn to Tessa from the moment he takes a seat next to her at the airport and he’s not content with just letting her walk away from him when they land half a world away.
With the help of her outspoken and shameless friend and boss, she finds herself unable to escape his company and soon, no longer wanting to.
I was initially intrigued by Andrew’s character. His mysterious air and gentlemanly ways appealed to me. The more you get to know him, the more you see that he’s a good guy through and through.
Tessa made me want to shake her a couple of times because I wanted her to have more confidence in herself, but I think Andrew is helping her find that. She’s dealt with a lot of loss and rejection so she fights a pretty loud inner voice that spews negativity.
The characters have an instant attraction and fall in love pretty quickly so if you’re looking for a lighthearted classic love story with lots of sparks, this is the book for you.
The story does end on a bit of a cliffhanger, but the second book will follow not far behind so I don’t think it’s a terribly painful one. It’s just enough to leave you wanting to know what happens next.
The author is a good friend of mine and I struggled trying to remain objective, because it was hard not to picture her as the main character and hear her voice. I can’t help but wonder if I didn’t know her how I would have interpreted the story, but overall I think she did a wonderful job, especially for her first published work.
I know taking a chance on a new author is always a bit of a leap of faith, but I think Jodie’s first foray into self-publishing is solid and she’s worth taking a chance on.
I loved Tessa and Andrew's story. Was it fate, was it being at the right place at the right time... you will have to read to judge.
Tessa is a women that smart and beautiful, but the situations of her past have strongly affected how she acts and lives. When Andrew, this sexy, English man is added to her life. Something blossoms and this beautiful romance get better and better.
When you take a journey with these two you will be swooned and you will fall in love. This book is so good. It does have a cliffhanger so go ahead and #oneclick book 2 because believe me you will want to jump into book two the minute this one is done.
Tessa's life has been anything but easy. As a result, she's introverted and not very confident. A business trip to London and a chance encounter lead her to meet the handsome Andrew. Tessa is reluctant, but she's not able to resist the charm of the British businessman. Andrew slowly breaks down Tessa's walls, but will it be enough for the heroine to realize they're fated to be together?
Part 2 comes out in a month!
Can't wait to see what's next for Tessa and Andrew!
I enjoyed this sweet story of Tessa and Andrew. The Library scene completely melted my heart! Andrew is swoon worthy and I am looking forward to watching Tessa come into her own and grow in the next book! A wonderful debut novel!
What a great book! This was so well written, I was able to feel like I was right in the story with these characters. Jodie Larson has a way with words! And I can not wait for the next book to come out!
This was a lovely debut novel. It had all the romantic feels of a fairy-tale story where you have a heroine who is in need of a knight to rescue her and turn her life around. That's how I felt this book and it made me sigh, smile, excited, and overall happy to read it as I followed the heroine in her quest to falling in love when she least expected.
Fated To Be Yours is the story of Tessa Martin, a twenty-six-years old young woman who's had a tough upbringing. From it she only learned to be guarded, timid, and mostly pessimistic yet, she still feels the loneliness in her heart and so can't help but wish for some real love in her life. It's until she's sent on a business trip to London that her fate starts to feel promising when she meets a very enchanting stranger on her flight to that beautiful city.
“I can feel his thoughts as his eyes dance around my face, pausing briefly at my lips before swinging up to meet my own. I’m not sure what it is he’s looking for, but he must find it because a smile brightens his face, making him even more arrestingly handsome than he already is.”
Their meeting was indeed fated and magical from the very first look. Tessa is immediately taken by his heart-melting smile, chivalry, and sexiness. Andrew Parker on the other hand, he's taken by Tessa's shyness, sweetness, and fragility. That's how they first connect and how they start an spontaneous and unforgettable romance that unfortunately has an expiration date.
“We will have more than a few days together, love. I promise.”
I found Andrew to be totally swoony. He was always charming and such a gentleman that he would make me sigh every time he'd call Tessa "love." He was just very endearing and definitely a knight in shining armor. Now sweet Tessa, I found her vulnerability genuine and her heart indeed fragile. Nevertheless, I wish she would have been a little more sure about herself just so I would have connected more strongly with her character but with that said, I really look forward to see her getting stronger and more decisive in book two since this first installment ends on a cliffhanger. Because she sure is a heroine that deserves her HEA.
“He makes me want to be more than my past.”
Sweet, endearing, touching, and romantic. That's how I would describe this story. A lovely fairy-tale romance about finding love and falling hard for it, I really enjoyed it! ♥
Fated To Be Yours is a solid debut novel from Jodie Larson, one that evokes the longing for a happily ever after and a love story to rival the stars. When I read this book, I was hoping that there would be a connection that could not be broken and a love story that would right past wrongs. When I got to the last page, I was shocked at how the story ended, not realizing that there would be more coming. I am glad that we don’t have to wait long to see what happens with Andrew and Tessa. I am anxious to see what happens and to continue to learn more about Tessa and see how she transforms. This story is told from Tessa’s POV, one that is wrought with self doubt and a wounded girl who has grown into a woman. It was hard to read from her POV mainly because you want her to be strong and push forward. But in the reality of her world, one that is justified the more you learn of her past, she is a success simply by waking up and interacting with the world around her. It is heartbreaking to hear her story when it is shared and to see what she has had to endure as a young child and thorough her entire life. As the story progresses, you begin to see a woman emerge who is starting to stand on her own two feet and embrace what she longs for. There are back slides to be expected and confusion for her to work thought but watching her learn to trust, accept, and love life is a powerful message. Andrew is the North Star for Tessa. He is the kind, patient, loving gentleman that wants to cherish every moment they have together. There is an undeniable pull between these two, something that is fated to be, and when that pull is understood, the time frame no longer matters. I am someone who doesn’t like insta-love. Often times it seems shallow. Jodie takes what could be shallow and turns it into something sweet, loving, and hopefully lasting. The writing style is a bit different than I am used to so that took a bit of adjustment. It is very introspective, not necessarily a bad thing, and when coupled with flashbacks, allows the reader to better understand who the heroine of the story is. The flow of the book is consistent. They meet and fall in love. The whirlwind romance feels different, a bit more reserved, but that is important to the story. There is a deep connection, one that doesn’t seem to make sense because it is profound, and as Tessa walks through her pain and her story is brought to life, it allows the reader to understand the pace and to appreciate the growing love between these two. I will admit I was a bit frustrated at the ending. I was not expecting for there to be another book to continue their story, but the more I think about it the more I am excited. I want to see how Jodie explores their new found love and how it grows into something real and lasting. There will have to be some wonderful and sweet grand gestures, and I am excited to see what is coming next!
First, I'd like to put out there that I'm not one to write reviews so bare with me. I'm also pretty gun shy about new authors but I read the synopsis on this one and had to give it a go. So glad I did! For all the people that are unsure of new authors, I'm here to say, BUY THIS BOOK! I don't want to give away spoilers and I don't want to go through the story page by page, I want you to enjoy that journey on your own. But I will say it's a beautiful story about a woman who's had more than her fare share of fate f***ing her over time and time again. But with a little courage and some helpful pushing from her awesome bff she gives love and new experiences a chance. This story takes us on a journey of love, laughter, compassion, hurt, anger and yes even some fear. The author brings the feels with this one people. And speaking of the author, it's clear she's got not only the talent but the passion to bring her story off the page and into your heart. It's hard to think this is her first book because it's written so well. Job well done by her because I for one know that with this book, this author just became an automatic 1-click for me. Can't wait to see what's next.
Love, what we all search for what we all need to have in order to grow, but when it is with held and you are pushed away what do you have left? A shell of a life. Tests was this shell of a person fighting in her subconscious for a love of her perfect man, fighting for him so much that she would fall right out of bed and wake up bruised. Would she recognise him if she found him? Andrew leads a happy life with work family and friends. Successful and single traveling the world never did hi think that he would find his fate on a plane ride back home sitting next to a shy woman that takes his breath away. Okay so this all sound perfect right they meet and he persuades her and breaks down her walls for her to love him. Perfect! But it is so much more than just that. It is a story of fate and it is screaming at her to see her perfect mate, her match her future. Sometimes we get in our own way to happiness. I cried, I was glued to my reader I wanted to inhale this beautifully sad and lo ing tale and then I wanted to kicked her butt! Jodie' writing is perfect never a dull moment, her characters are witty and funny. I have but one request..... please give me book 2 soon because I think I might start falling out of bed dreaming of Andrew and what comes next!
4 stars **** Wonderful novel by a debut author! At first glance, this is a typical sweet love story. It almost seems too good to be true. As we learn more about Tessa and her attempt to ignore her past, the story takes on more depth. She has a chance meeting with handsome Brit, Andrew Parker as she sits next to him on a plane bound for a business trip to London. They feel an instant connection with one another. Tessa doesn't plan on ever seeing Andrew again despite his wish to do so. As Tessa realizes later her connection with Andrew, they embark on a whirlwind romance. All the while Tessa starts to see her feelings deepen towards Andrew; her fatalistic thoughts based on her past threaten to destroy the future that may be hers for the taking. Looking forward to the continuation of Tessa and Andrew's journey! I received an ARC from the author which I greatly appreciated!
At first please pardon me,but i'm not a person who writes a reviews but i was given this copy by a friend.Well i didn't realy enjoy by reading it,Tessa was/is anoying girl who doesn't want to be pityed but in the same time she pity herself all the time. Tessa is strugling thru life,her only bright spot is her friend/boss Kara and her job,when she fins or meet Andrew-carizmatic and well manered man-she starts to be bold in her actions and words. Andrew is a sweetheart who finds his soul in Tessa but because of missunderstanding he lose her. I'm so sorry that i can't write how much i love this book but honesty is best,i'm not saying that others can't read it but it's not for me.
Tessa is a woman who has come a long way in her life. She's had hardships no one should have to face. She's shy and an introvert, and in that way reminds me of myself. Her boss is the best friend she needs, and everyone needs. She makes Tessa step out of her comfort zone, but takes care of her too. Tessa wants to be independent, but needs to be taken care of, and when she meets a man who fate has placed in her path, can she overcome her past for him? Will she let her shyness determine her future? Will she let him take care of her? This book will leave you wanting more.
I have a feeling Jodie is going to go far! This was a beautiful debut novel. The cover is stunning and absolutely drew me to reading the book.
I found Tessa a bit frustrating but believe she has potential to make a turn around. Andrew was great from the start. It's hard to swoon over a man with no faults, but he was well written. I loved how he referred to Tessa as "love" from the beginning.
I'm looking forward to seeing where their story is headed in book two!
3 1/2 ✨✨✨✨ Was that a cliff hanger she left me with? Whatttt. I cannot wait to continue the series and watch Tessa learn more about herself while letting herself fall in love with Andrew.
The first 20% of the book was a little too descriptive for me but if you stick with it the story comes alive by the end of the book. Andrew seems like a dream and I wanna know if he continues to pursues Tessa or let's her runaway with her fears.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Fated to be Yours was a great story about finding love amidst a sea of uncertainty. Jodie Larson really brought her characters to life in 3D: a sweet, charming, sometimes steamy story that I thoroughly enjoyed.
I'm definitely excited to read book two!
***Note: I received an ARC of this book. I was not asked to review, but this book deserves one!***
ok no but seriously i read this book and need the next one like right now. fab story lines fab characters and serious heartache. really enjoyed reading this book but hell i really do need the next right now. congratulations. this book will keep you thinking but will pull at your heart strings all in the same sentence.
This was my first Jodie Larson book. The cover drew me in. I love covers. This is the story of Tessa and Andrew. They meet on their flight to London. This is a very cute story. Andrew is so very sweet. Loved when they were on the tours of the facilities. Loved all the interaction with the children.
The writing is really great. The story is just so cheesy and everything is just meant to be. If the story was less a fairy tale, it would have been great. The author has skill.
I received a copy from United Indie Book Blog in exchange for an honest review.
Another debut novel that just blew me out of the water.
Tessa has a recurring dream of a man with sapphire eyes that leaves her throbbing in they southern regions and usually on the floor with a new bruise which collected when falling out of bed !
Tessa didn't have an easy life , her father deserted them as a child and her mom rejected her. I admire Tessa for making something of herself ....
Kara is Tessa's best friend and boss and they're on their way to London on a business trip and its on the flight where she meets a mysterious yet drop dead gorgeous stranger to whom she feels a strange yet familiar attraction. I must be honest if a "stranger" lavished me with the same attention Andrew did Tessa I'd be a melted puddle ! It's undeniable that there's chemistry between Andrew and Tessa right from the very start .
Tessa is very shy and reserved so thank you to Kara for pushing them together. Andrew wakes up something in Tessa and she does and says things she ordinarily wouldn't and it's beautiful to watch♥
At around 42% Tessa gets a call and she has a childhood flashback that has me sobbing for Tessa as a little girl but it also brings to surface a raging beast !
I just want to bitch slap her mother , reach into the book and hold little Tessa in my arms.
The ending is a bit of a cliffhanger and left me clutching my kleenex and seeking solace in chocolate .
I received this for an honest review! Another debut novel that just blew me out of the water.
Tessa has a recurring dream of a man with sapphire eyes that leaves her throbbing in the southern regions and usually on the floor with a new bruise which collected when falling out of bed !
Tessa didn't have an easy life , her father deserted them as a child and her mom rejected her. I admire Tessa for making something of herself ....
Kara is Tessa's best friend and boss and they're on their way to London on a business trip and its on the flight where she meets a mysterious yet drop dead gorgeous stranger to whom she feels a strange yet familiar attraction. I must be honest if a "stranger" lavished me with the same attention Andrew did Tessa I'd be a melted puddle !
It's undeniable that there's chemistry between Andrew and Tessa right from the very start but Tessa is very shy and reserved so thank you to Kara for pushing them together. Andrew wakes up something in Tessa and she does and says things she ordinarily wouldn't and it's beautiful to watch♥
At around 42% Tessa gets a call and she has a childhood flashback that has me sobbing for Tessa as a little girl but it also brings to surface a raging beast ! I just want to bitch slap her mother , reach into the book and hold little Tessa in my arms.
The ending is a bit of a cliffhanger and left me clutching my kleenex and seeking solace in chocolate .
If you believe in fate and love at first sight then this is the book for you.
Tessa has been made to feel unloved all her life. She believes that she is destined to be alone for all time yet years for more. But, she stays closed off, her life consists of work to home to work to home.
A chance encounter changes her preconceived notions and she embraces these feelings that are foreign to her. Like any woman, her mind is plagues with lots of self doubt. But for once she is daring to be free and live. Even if she believes that it will end because everyone who loved her (or should have loved her) has left her.
Instead of waiting for her heart to be broken, she breaks it first.
This part had me baffled... she had hope, faith, love and instead of asking questions she leaves. But, it is a great story about connecting with someone on all levels, even though they've only know each other a short amount of time.
I sure hope there is a second book so I can get a conclusion. Go one click this!
Fated To Be Yours is the first book in the Fated series. This is the first book I have read from this author and to say I was a little shocked at the ending is and understatement. I really thought this book would lead a different way.. its not necessarily a bad thing but its somewhat disappointing ending for me and that is why I had to give this book a 3.5 stars. I really did enjoy the story up until that point and I loved the characters Tessa and Andrew and the story line was pretty great. But I have faith in this author to turn it around hopefully with the next installment. Sometimes its hard to really review one book out of a series because you can absolutely hate just one book but the rest of the story brings it together and you find you actually really enjoyed the journey. So that being said give it a try because its actually a good story I just have to follow my heart and say it was good not great. I look forward to more from this series and hopefully soon!
Jodie Larson's debut novel Fated to be Yours was wonderful. Tessa and Andrew's story is heartbreakingly beautiful. Tessa didn't have an easy life growing up, which has an impact on her confidence. While on a business trip to England, she encounters Andrew. Soon her pesky but lovable boss, Kara, has Andrew and Tessa pushed together. Though this story ends on a little bit of a cliff hanger, you only have to wait a month to read what happens next with Andrew and Tessa. I'm anxiously awaiting Fated to be Mine to see what happens.
Definitely take on reading a new author because you won't be disappointed and you'll have found another author to add to your one-click list with whatever they write!
I enjoyed this book. I connected with the main character, Tessa, in ways I don't wish to admit. I loved the setting (I wish to visit there one day!) I LOVED what the characters were doing for children. (I am not into spoilers..sorry not more info!) My only issue was I felt like there needed to be more of a time span for the connection between the two main characters...not a problem...more a personal preference. I look forward to the next book. Thank you to Ms Larson for my ARC !
I enjoyed this sweet story of Tessa and Andrew. The Library scene completely melted my heart! Andrew is swoon worthy and I am looking forward to watching Tessa come into her own and grow in the next book! A wonderful debut novel!