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Behind Her Smile
David and Karolina Morgan have the perfect marriage. He runs a financial empire catering to Miami's most influential and she is the darling socialite, adored by her husband and all those that meet her.
But underneath the lavish home, expensive car and exquisite jewelry lies a darkness threatening to consume Karolina. The once vivacious fashion design student has become a shadow of herself at the hands of her manipulative husband.
Then, with the flick of a power switch, everything changes. Karolina must learn to fight back when she discovers her entire existence is one big sham, with dire consequences
But underneath the lavish home, expensive car and exquisite jewelry lies a darkness threatening to consume Karolina. The once vivacious fashion design student has become a shadow of herself at the hands of her manipulative husband.
Then, with the flick of a power switch, everything changes. Karolina must learn to fight back when she discovers her entire existence is one big sham, with dire consequences
Unknown Binding
First published January 1, 2016
3 people are currently reading
609 people want to read
About the author
Olivia Luck
8 books224 followersOlivia Luck lives in the middle of America with her loving husband and her obsession with writing. She wrote her first romance novel at age eight. When she’s not reading, editing, or writing, you can find her in the kitchen learning to cook. Olivia loves to travel and spend time with her family.
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January 11, 2016
ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review
“I want everything this man has to offer. His lips are heaven. His touch is divine. He moves to kiss the line of my jaw, the corner of my lips and then, wonderfully, his lips are on mine again. I whimper. More. This is what a kiss is supposed to be like. ”
A raw, gritty, poignant and emotionally charged tale that will consume and grip your heart. Olivia Luck has truly outdid herself with Behind Her Smile, as she showcases raw emotions and vulnerabilities to the core. With her smart, edgy, and consuming prose, she has delicately orchestrated and constructed a tale of romance, betrayal, lies, secrets and facades.
L-O-V-E. LOVE. Four letters. A simple word. It is easy to spell but hard to define. Love can be consuming. It can bring laughter, joy, happiness, and light into our lives. But love can also destroy. It can ruin us. Taint us. And love can be blurred. And in the case of Behind Her Smile, Ms. Luck showcases all the facets of love from a wanted and hopeful love to a maddening kind of love of control.
“I love him. The kind of effortless love that comes as natural as breathing. The kind of love that soothes even the sharpest pains. The kind of love that makes you want to be fully honest, even if it means revealing ugly and unattractive parts of your personality because you trust the love.”
It is easy to judge and say wow this person has an amazing life. But looks can be deceiving. In the case for Karolina Morgan, the picture perfect life that the public perceives is nothing but perfect. She may have the perfect husband, the perfect house, and the perfect life. But nothing about her life is perfect. The man she thought she married out of love, slowly showed his true colors when he stripped pieces of Karolina until there was nothing left but an empty void of loneliness and fear.
“Alec Christos saw me. I don’t know if I’ll ever be the same.”
In this gripping tale of survival, hope, and second chances, Ms. Luck has perfectly weaved layers upon layers of raw emotions. As readers are consumed with Ms. Luck's words, we are able to really FEEL the depth of confusion, emptiness, and sense of longing that Karolina craved from her husband, David. It is easy from an outsider's perspective to judge Karolina as to why she stayed in a five year marriage with a man that destroyed and shattered pieces of her, but what we fail to realize is the depth of emotions and feelings from the perspective of women who are just like Karolina.
Fear. It can be debilitating as it holds you back from truly living. And for Karolina, she was fearful of the future and what David could do to her. She wanted his love and affection. She craved it because she didn't have that growing up. And so Ms. Luck was able to display why Karolina was drawn to David and his manipulative ways. What I truly love about this book is that Ms. Luck doesn't sugarcoat anything. She gives her readers the harsh reality of abuse. It is ugly. But luckily for Karolina, there was a glimmer of hope and comfort and she found that in her friendship with Alec. Her friendship with Alec was confusing but it was real. It brought a genuine smile to her face. So can Karolina finally gain the strength to break away from the facade and truly be happy and shatter the perfect image?
“The kiss is wild. I can almost taste his hunger. He nips at my lower lip until I welcome his deeper assault. Our tongues duel. My hands rise to grip the lapels of his jacket, drawing him closer to me. His passion does nothing to outshine mine. I can’t get enough of him.”
Olivia Luck truly outdid herself in Behind Her Smile. In less than three hours, Ms. Luck held me hostage as I was immersed and doused with so much emotions. My heart broke for Karolina as she struggled to find freedom, happiness, and independence. It is easily to say Karolina is a weak heroine but I do not see her as weak. I see a young woman slowly finding her voice and strength. A young woman who had to crawl out despair and darkness to see the beautiful things in her life. Behind her Smile is a story that must be read. It is not your ordinary contemporary romance of hearts and flowers but this book is so much more. It is about shattering the image of perfect and rediscovering yourself. So if you are looking for a story, where second chances and hope is the happily ever after ending that will leave you breathless then I highly recommend you to read this book.
Review can also be found on Four Chicks Flipping Pages: http://fourchicksflippingpages.weebly...Olivia Luck
“I want everything this man has to offer. His lips are heaven. His touch is divine. He moves to kiss the line of my jaw, the corner of my lips and then, wonderfully, his lips are on mine again. I whimper. More. This is what a kiss is supposed to be like. ”A raw, gritty, poignant and emotionally charged tale that will consume and grip your heart. Olivia Luck has truly outdid herself with Behind Her Smile, as she showcases raw emotions and vulnerabilities to the core. With her smart, edgy, and consuming prose, she has delicately orchestrated and constructed a tale of romance, betrayal, lies, secrets and facades.
L-O-V-E. LOVE. Four letters. A simple word. It is easy to spell but hard to define. Love can be consuming. It can bring laughter, joy, happiness, and light into our lives. But love can also destroy. It can ruin us. Taint us. And love can be blurred. And in the case of Behind Her Smile, Ms. Luck showcases all the facets of love from a wanted and hopeful love to a maddening kind of love of control.
“I love him. The kind of effortless love that comes as natural as breathing. The kind of love that soothes even the sharpest pains. The kind of love that makes you want to be fully honest, even if it means revealing ugly and unattractive parts of your personality because you trust the love.”It is easy to judge and say wow this person has an amazing life. But looks can be deceiving. In the case for Karolina Morgan, the picture perfect life that the public perceives is nothing but perfect. She may have the perfect husband, the perfect house, and the perfect life. But nothing about her life is perfect. The man she thought she married out of love, slowly showed his true colors when he stripped pieces of Karolina until there was nothing left but an empty void of loneliness and fear.
“Alec Christos saw me. I don’t know if I’ll ever be the same.”In this gripping tale of survival, hope, and second chances, Ms. Luck has perfectly weaved layers upon layers of raw emotions. As readers are consumed with Ms. Luck's words, we are able to really FEEL the depth of confusion, emptiness, and sense of longing that Karolina craved from her husband, David. It is easy from an outsider's perspective to judge Karolina as to why she stayed in a five year marriage with a man that destroyed and shattered pieces of her, but what we fail to realize is the depth of emotions and feelings from the perspective of women who are just like Karolina.
Fear. It can be debilitating as it holds you back from truly living. And for Karolina, she was fearful of the future and what David could do to her. She wanted his love and affection. She craved it because she didn't have that growing up. And so Ms. Luck was able to display why Karolina was drawn to David and his manipulative ways. What I truly love about this book is that Ms. Luck doesn't sugarcoat anything. She gives her readers the harsh reality of abuse. It is ugly. But luckily for Karolina, there was a glimmer of hope and comfort and she found that in her friendship with Alec. Her friendship with Alec was confusing but it was real. It brought a genuine smile to her face. So can Karolina finally gain the strength to break away from the facade and truly be happy and shatter the perfect image?
“The kiss is wild. I can almost taste his hunger. He nips at my lower lip until I welcome his deeper assault. Our tongues duel. My hands rise to grip the lapels of his jacket, drawing him closer to me. His passion does nothing to outshine mine. I can’t get enough of him.”Olivia Luck truly outdid herself in Behind Her Smile. In less than three hours, Ms. Luck held me hostage as I was immersed and doused with so much emotions. My heart broke for Karolina as she struggled to find freedom, happiness, and independence. It is easily to say Karolina is a weak heroine but I do not see her as weak. I see a young woman slowly finding her voice and strength. A young woman who had to crawl out despair and darkness to see the beautiful things in her life. Behind her Smile is a story that must be read. It is not your ordinary contemporary romance of hearts and flowers but this book is so much more. It is about shattering the image of perfect and rediscovering yourself. So if you are looking for a story, where second chances and hope is the happily ever after ending that will leave you breathless then I highly recommend you to read this book.
Review can also be found on Four Chicks Flipping Pages: http://fourchicksflippingpages.weebly...Olivia Luck
November 25, 2015
༺**Complimentary Copy**༺ Provided by the author
"Olivia Luck" in exchange for an honest review..Thank you!!
TITLE: Behind Her Smile
AUTHOR: Olivia Luck
GENRE: Contemporary Romance
RELEASE DATE: January 6th 2016
MY RATING: 4 STARS
GREED, LUST, MURDER, DECEIT, MANIPULATION, ABUSE
I've only read one other by this author which I really enjoyed so am pretty keen to see what she brings us with this story..
A Trophy Wife
Underneath all the glitz and glamour, I'm still that little trailer park girl.
BEHIND HER SMILE: starts off with the past and present swiftly merging as you read through the chapters, it starts off in the Present where they have arrived home from an event, she feels something is off but can't put her finger on it but notices that the alarm wasn't activated by their staff, then all goes black, an intruder is in the house then it jumps into the past giving us the background information on how their whirlwind romance/ marriage transpired, it's later divulged that not only David wanted to persue Karolina but his so called friend Alec had his eye on her also, BUT now here's the unusual thing they betted on a game, which team called the winning team would have a clear run at wooing her needless to say David won..
Both of us wanted a shot at you, so we let it come down to a football game. The Dolphins lost and David won, which is probably for the best. I'm not one for commitment or marriage. The better man got the prize. ~ Alec
Both are handsome, one with fair colouring, the other much darker. An angel and a devil.
There's some kind of undercurrent of unease between David and Alec, tempers nearly always bubble over, hidden meaning in their interactions..
As a young girl, I didn’t dream of getting married. Poring through issues of Vogue, I imagined becoming a world-renowned dress designer.
You can't help but race through the pages to get the answers to the questions that pop up, why the quick marriage? Who is behind the break in? What is David hiding? And most importantly who exactly is Alec?
I trusted David too readily. I threw away all the things I worked for to become nothing more than a pretty manequin brought out only when it would benefit my husband.
There's just something very dark and sinister about David, it's not so much the control he has over Karolina but his disregard for things important to her, it's shows in the way he talks to her, reprimands her, controls what is expected of her as his wife, his disregard for her designing skills.
He demands a strict routine, and I, in my quest to keep peace in the home, adhere to his requirements.
Year by year Karolina losses a piece of herself
"Olivia Luck" in exchange for an honest review..Thank you!!
TITLE: Behind Her Smile
AUTHOR: Olivia Luck
GENRE: Contemporary Romance
RELEASE DATE: January 6th 2016
MY RATING: 4 STARS
GREED, LUST, MURDER, DECEIT, MANIPULATION, ABUSE
I've only read one other by this author which I really enjoyed so am pretty keen to see what she brings us with this story..
A Trophy Wife
Underneath all the glitz and glamour, I'm still that little trailer park girl.
BEHIND HER SMILE: starts off with the past and present swiftly merging as you read through the chapters, it starts off in the Present where they have arrived home from an event, she feels something is off but can't put her finger on it but notices that the alarm wasn't activated by their staff, then all goes black, an intruder is in the house then it jumps into the past giving us the background information on how their whirlwind romance/ marriage transpired, it's later divulged that not only David wanted to persue Karolina but his so called friend Alec had his eye on her also, BUT now here's the unusual thing they betted on a game, which team called the winning team would have a clear run at wooing her needless to say David won..
Both of us wanted a shot at you, so we let it come down to a football game. The Dolphins lost and David won, which is probably for the best. I'm not one for commitment or marriage. The better man got the prize. ~ Alec
Both are handsome, one with fair colouring, the other much darker. An angel and a devil.
There's some kind of undercurrent of unease between David and Alec, tempers nearly always bubble over, hidden meaning in their interactions..
As a young girl, I didn’t dream of getting married. Poring through issues of Vogue, I imagined becoming a world-renowned dress designer.
You can't help but race through the pages to get the answers to the questions that pop up, why the quick marriage? Who is behind the break in? What is David hiding? And most importantly who exactly is Alec?
I trusted David too readily. I threw away all the things I worked for to become nothing more than a pretty manequin brought out only when it would benefit my husband.
There's just something very dark and sinister about David, it's not so much the control he has over Karolina but his disregard for things important to her, it's shows in the way he talks to her, reprimands her, controls what is expected of her as his wife, his disregard for her designing skills.
He demands a strict routine, and I, in my quest to keep peace in the home, adhere to his requirements.
Year by year Karolina losses a piece of herself
January 6, 2016
Update Jan 06 2016 - it's LIVE and still on SALE
*** ARC kindly provided by Book Enthusiast Promotions, via NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review. ***
OMG I really loved this one! This is a well written, captivating, heart breaking story of domestic abuse, lies and … hope! I give it 4.5 stars!
5 years ago Karolina thought she met the man of her dreams, her savior! The one who will give her what she craves … a family, the feeling of belonging! Everything seems to go fine even though David starts controlling Karolina’s life more and more! She gives up her dreams and ambitions and tries to be the perfect, supporting wife. To the outside they appear to be the perfect couple but nobody knows how Karolina suffers behind closed doors! A story of humiliation, pain, broken dreams, lies, lost friends, manipulation, buried dreams, aggression, … but also hope, a gentle lover, new dreams, … and most important ‘feeling like coming home’
This story broke my heart several times and got me emotional over and over again. I’m so grateful the author didn’t rush Karo’s HEA because I really needed that!!
There are time jumps in this book to the useful parts in the last 5 years which help to understand how their relationship evolved.
*** ARC kindly provided by Book Enthusiast Promotions, via NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review. ***
OMG I really loved this one! This is a well written, captivating, heart breaking story of domestic abuse, lies and … hope! I give it 4.5 stars!
5 years ago Karolina thought she met the man of her dreams, her savior! The one who will give her what she craves … a family, the feeling of belonging! Everything seems to go fine even though David starts controlling Karolina’s life more and more! She gives up her dreams and ambitions and tries to be the perfect, supporting wife. To the outside they appear to be the perfect couple but nobody knows how Karolina suffers behind closed doors! A story of humiliation, pain, broken dreams, lies, lost friends, manipulation, buried dreams, aggression, … but also hope, a gentle lover, new dreams, … and most important ‘feeling like coming home’
This story broke my heart several times and got me emotional over and over again. I’m so grateful the author didn’t rush Karo’s HEA because I really needed that!!
There are time jumps in this book to the useful parts in the last 5 years which help to understand how their relationship evolved.
February 26, 2016
**** 4.5 "Need To Be Loved" Stars ****
Karolina is a young fashion design student trying to make someone of the horrible, shitty life she was raised in. Becoming a fashion powerhouse is all she wants. Until the day she meets the handsome and successful David Morgan and his friend Alec Christs.
"Both men are handsome, one an angel and one a devil."
Karolina has no idea how meeting these two men is about to take her life a journey into sexual attraction, sorrow, abuse, riches beyond her wildest dreams, abuse, lies, secrets and ultimately faced with her own death.
Choosing the angel is a no brainer, or so Karolina thought.
Karolina and David's relationship starts off sweet and wonderful, but after the untimely deaths of David's family, Karolina's life is on fast paced road straight into David's Hell.
"Every king needs his queen, and you are mine. I couldn't rule over the kingdom without you."
Karolina's kingdom is a living hell. Her dreams are shattered as she must live the life the David deems acceptable. Filled with verbal and physical abuse, Karolina's self worth plummets into a darkness and the bright, fashion student begins to fade until The Devil befriends her.
Alec Christos knows he needs to stay far away from Karolina Morgan, but he can't and he won't. Their friendship stirs feelings deep within each other that both know is very wrong. Alec is everything that David isn't.
"You have me at a disadvantage. NO ONE has me at a disadvantage," he corrects. "Except you."
Pushing their feelings aside because Karolina is not available, they continue their hidden friendship until David's darkness and secrets are finally exposed leaving Karolina broken beyond repair.
Karolina is faced with a life left with nothing as David has taken everything from her. Not knowing how she will get on with her life, three people stand by her side and help her find the old Karolina that was full of life and beauty. Along with finding herself, her heart is able to find a glue to repair what was shattered.
"You can't control that I love you more with each breath I take."
This is a wonderful read if you love secrets, lies, darkness and does of happy heart. Great story Miss Luck!!
Karolina is a young fashion design student trying to make someone of the horrible, shitty life she was raised in. Becoming a fashion powerhouse is all she wants. Until the day she meets the handsome and successful David Morgan and his friend Alec Christs.
"Both men are handsome, one an angel and one a devil."
Karolina has no idea how meeting these two men is about to take her life a journey into sexual attraction, sorrow, abuse, riches beyond her wildest dreams, abuse, lies, secrets and ultimately faced with her own death.
Choosing the angel is a no brainer, or so Karolina thought.
Karolina and David's relationship starts off sweet and wonderful, but after the untimely deaths of David's family, Karolina's life is on fast paced road straight into David's Hell.
"Every king needs his queen, and you are mine. I couldn't rule over the kingdom without you."
Karolina's kingdom is a living hell. Her dreams are shattered as she must live the life the David deems acceptable. Filled with verbal and physical abuse, Karolina's self worth plummets into a darkness and the bright, fashion student begins to fade until The Devil befriends her.
Alec Christos knows he needs to stay far away from Karolina Morgan, but he can't and he won't. Their friendship stirs feelings deep within each other that both know is very wrong. Alec is everything that David isn't.
"You have me at a disadvantage. NO ONE has me at a disadvantage," he corrects. "Except you."
Pushing their feelings aside because Karolina is not available, they continue their hidden friendship until David's darkness and secrets are finally exposed leaving Karolina broken beyond repair.
Karolina is faced with a life left with nothing as David has taken everything from her. Not knowing how she will get on with her life, three people stand by her side and help her find the old Karolina that was full of life and beauty. Along with finding herself, her heart is able to find a glue to repair what was shattered.
"You can't control that I love you more with each breath I take."
This is a wonderful read if you love secrets, lies, darkness and does of happy heart. Great story Miss Luck!!
December 10, 2015
☆ I received an ARC via the author in exchange for an honest review. Thank you! ☆
Exquisitely beautiful..life affirming... and beautifully rich.
Author Olivia Luck never fails in tugging on my heartstrings.
Will add more to my review closer to publication.
Exquisitely beautiful..life affirming... and beautifully rich.
Author Olivia Luck never fails in tugging on my heartstrings.
Will add more to my review closer to publication.
August 9, 2016
Review in english and portuguese.
Resenha em inglês e português
* ebook provided by Netgalley and Book Enthusiast Promotions. Thank you!
4 beautiful and powerful stars
This book was different than I thought. In a really good way. A heartbreaking and also beautiful and really well written book.
“I don’t like to see beautiful things destroyed.”
Carolina and David apparently had a perfect marriage. But ya know that concept from the movie "American Beauty" that seeing the image from far everything seems perfect, but when you close up you see the cracks? So David was not nearly the best husband of the year, and Karolina lived in an abusive environment as much psychological as physical. Until one day, when the two return home, they got surprised by two robbers who do more than steal. Even without meaning it, they help to expose the wedding truths and the life of these two. The book shows the present (the assault) and the past when Karo and David met, helping us to try to understand how everything got so complicated.
BEHIND HER SMILE is told by Karolina basically. I liked the character, but I judged her at the beginning of the book. Usually I try to not put myself in their shoes, you know. Nothing like "and if it was me". But with this character specifically I failed. I was mad at her for not seeing the signs. For accepting so much. To be in their right mind and putting up with so much ... I don’t know. Often we try to interfere on the story telling what we would do if it happened to us. However we are not living the situation to really know. And the past of this character demonstrates a person who seeks to love and be loved more than anything in life.
What I liked the most about this book was the growth of Karolina. The book is a beautifully written drama and has characters that will make you fall in love. Alec was introduced after a lot of things had happened and I got curious to know more about him. But above all, this book is a lesson. I recommend it all women to read it. It's about power, about courage, about strength and find out what you really want.
BEHIND HER SMILE has a similar pace with a film script. Showing some answers only when it wasnecessary that the reader knew, without giving everything up front. This was my first book of Olivia Luck, I didn’t know the author and loved the way she writes. I want more!
-----
* ebook fornecido pelo Netgalley e Book Enthusiast Promotions. Obrigada! Lançamento 05 de janeiro de 2016
4 lindas e poderosas estrelas
“Não gosto de ver coisas bonitos destruídas.”
Esse livro foi tão diferente do que eu imaginava, mas num bom sentido. Foi arrasador, mas com um final lindo e muito bem escrito.
Karolina e David aparentemente tinham um casamento perfeito. Mas sabe aquele conceito do filme "Beleza Americana" que de longe tudo parece perfeito, mas quando vemos de perto é que enxergamos as rachaduras? Então, David não era nem de perto o melhor dos maridos, e Karolina vivia num ambiente abusivo tanto psicológico quando físico. Até que num dia qualquer, quando os dois voltam para casa, são surpreendidos por dois assaltantes que fazem mais do que roubar. "Sem querer" contribuem para expor verdades do casamento e da vida desses dois. O livro mostra o presente (o assalto) e o passado de quando os dois se conheceram, nos ajudando a tentar entender como que tudo chegou ao ponto que chegou.
BEHIND HER SMILE é narrado basicamente pela Karolina. Eu gostei da personagem, mas a julguei muito no começo do livro. Normalmente eu tento me afastar dos personagens, sabe. Nada do "e seu fosse comigo". Mas com essa personagem especifica não consegui. Fiquei com raiva dela por não ter visto os sinais. Por ter aceitado tanta coisa. Por estar em sã consciência aturando tanta coisa... mas, sei lá. Muitas vezes a gente tenta se intrometer na história dizendo o que faria se fosse com a gente. Entretanto nós não estamos vivendo a situação para saber realmente. E o passado da personagem demonstra uma pessoa que busca ter amor mais que tudo na vida.
O que mais gostei nesse livro foi o crescimento da personagem. O livro é um drama muito bem escrito e possui personagens que vão te fazer se apaixonar. Alec foi introduzido bem tarde na história, e ficamos curiosas para saber mais sobre ele. Mas, além de tudo, esse livro é uma lição. Recomendo a todas as mulheres que o leiam. É sobre força, sobre coragem, sobre crescimento e descobrir o que realmente se quer.
BEHIND HER SMILE tem um ritmo parecido com filme. Sendo jogadas as coisas somente quando é necessário que o leitor saiba, sem entregar tudo logo de cara. Esse foi meu primeiro livro da Olivia Luck, eu não conhecia a autora e adorei o jeito dela escrever. Quero ler mais!
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Resenha em inglês e português
* ebook provided by Netgalley and Book Enthusiast Promotions. Thank you!
4 beautiful and powerful stars
This book was different than I thought. In a really good way. A heartbreaking and also beautiful and really well written book.
“I don’t like to see beautiful things destroyed.”
Carolina and David apparently had a perfect marriage. But ya know that concept from the movie "American Beauty" that seeing the image from far everything seems perfect, but when you close up you see the cracks? So David was not nearly the best husband of the year, and Karolina lived in an abusive environment as much psychological as physical. Until one day, when the two return home, they got surprised by two robbers who do more than steal. Even without meaning it, they help to expose the wedding truths and the life of these two. The book shows the present (the assault) and the past when Karo and David met, helping us to try to understand how everything got so complicated.
BEHIND HER SMILE is told by Karolina basically. I liked the character, but I judged her at the beginning of the book. Usually I try to not put myself in their shoes, you know. Nothing like "and if it was me". But with this character specifically I failed. I was mad at her for not seeing the signs. For accepting so much. To be in their right mind and putting up with so much ... I don’t know. Often we try to interfere on the story telling what we would do if it happened to us. However we are not living the situation to really know. And the past of this character demonstrates a person who seeks to love and be loved more than anything in life.
What I liked the most about this book was the growth of Karolina. The book is a beautifully written drama and has characters that will make you fall in love. Alec was introduced after a lot of things had happened and I got curious to know more about him. But above all, this book is a lesson. I recommend it all women to read it. It's about power, about courage, about strength and find out what you really want.
BEHIND HER SMILE has a similar pace with a film script. Showing some answers only when it wasnecessary that the reader knew, without giving everything up front. This was my first book of Olivia Luck, I didn’t know the author and loved the way she writes. I want more!
-----
* ebook fornecido pelo Netgalley e Book Enthusiast Promotions. Obrigada! Lançamento 05 de janeiro de 2016
4 lindas e poderosas estrelas
“Não gosto de ver coisas bonitos destruídas.”
Esse livro foi tão diferente do que eu imaginava, mas num bom sentido. Foi arrasador, mas com um final lindo e muito bem escrito.
Karolina e David aparentemente tinham um casamento perfeito. Mas sabe aquele conceito do filme "Beleza Americana" que de longe tudo parece perfeito, mas quando vemos de perto é que enxergamos as rachaduras? Então, David não era nem de perto o melhor dos maridos, e Karolina vivia num ambiente abusivo tanto psicológico quando físico. Até que num dia qualquer, quando os dois voltam para casa, são surpreendidos por dois assaltantes que fazem mais do que roubar. "Sem querer" contribuem para expor verdades do casamento e da vida desses dois. O livro mostra o presente (o assalto) e o passado de quando os dois se conheceram, nos ajudando a tentar entender como que tudo chegou ao ponto que chegou.
BEHIND HER SMILE é narrado basicamente pela Karolina. Eu gostei da personagem, mas a julguei muito no começo do livro. Normalmente eu tento me afastar dos personagens, sabe. Nada do "e seu fosse comigo". Mas com essa personagem especifica não consegui. Fiquei com raiva dela por não ter visto os sinais. Por ter aceitado tanta coisa. Por estar em sã consciência aturando tanta coisa... mas, sei lá. Muitas vezes a gente tenta se intrometer na história dizendo o que faria se fosse com a gente. Entretanto nós não estamos vivendo a situação para saber realmente. E o passado da personagem demonstra uma pessoa que busca ter amor mais que tudo na vida.
O que mais gostei nesse livro foi o crescimento da personagem. O livro é um drama muito bem escrito e possui personagens que vão te fazer se apaixonar. Alec foi introduzido bem tarde na história, e ficamos curiosas para saber mais sobre ele. Mas, além de tudo, esse livro é uma lição. Recomendo a todas as mulheres que o leiam. É sobre força, sobre coragem, sobre crescimento e descobrir o que realmente se quer.
BEHIND HER SMILE tem um ritmo parecido com filme. Sendo jogadas as coisas somente quando é necessário que o leitor saiba, sem entregar tudo logo de cara. Esse foi meu primeiro livro da Olivia Luck, eu não conhecia a autora e adorei o jeito dela escrever. Quero ler mais!
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January 6, 2016
This was a really hard read for me due to what Karolina endured at the hands of her dominating husband, David. Yet, at the same time, I realized how hard it must be for those that have gone through this—or are currently going through what Karolina went through.
She thought she had the perfect life with the perfect husband, yet once they said their "I Do's", everything changed and she realized what a monster David really was. It was hard seeing how abusive David had become towards Karolina—verbally, at first and then, physically. And what gutted me was that she felt she deserved it but only because David had ingrained it in her head that she did.
David wanted the world to see that he had the perfect life, wife and job, but no matter how hard he tried there was someone that was a step ahead of him and knew his true colors…
Many would find it weird that Alec befriends Karolina, yet the more I read, the more I appreciated he did because he was able to get through to her and help her when she allowed it. There was big-time angst that had me thinking this was the end for Karolina—and as we get the past and present POV we get to piece together the "big picture". I thought I would hate Alec but I found myself loving him because of everything he did for Karolina! He was totally swoon worthy!
Even though it was a hard read, Behind Her Smile opened up my eyes on a matter that is often hushed or swept away. Be prepared to have your heart ripped apart and to shed tears but just when you think it won't end well you will totally be surprised. A beautiful story survival story. ~ Kara, 4.5 stars
She thought she had the perfect life with the perfect husband, yet once they said their "I Do's", everything changed and she realized what a monster David really was. It was hard seeing how abusive David had become towards Karolina—verbally, at first and then, physically. And what gutted me was that she felt she deserved it but only because David had ingrained it in her head that she did.
David wanted the world to see that he had the perfect life, wife and job, but no matter how hard he tried there was someone that was a step ahead of him and knew his true colors…
Many would find it weird that Alec befriends Karolina, yet the more I read, the more I appreciated he did because he was able to get through to her and help her when she allowed it. There was big-time angst that had me thinking this was the end for Karolina—and as we get the past and present POV we get to piece together the "big picture". I thought I would hate Alec but I found myself loving him because of everything he did for Karolina! He was totally swoon worthy!
Even though it was a hard read, Behind Her Smile opened up my eyes on a matter that is often hushed or swept away. Be prepared to have your heart ripped apart and to shed tears but just when you think it won't end well you will totally be surprised. A beautiful story survival story. ~ Kara, 4.5 stars
May 9, 2017
Unfortunately the constant flashbacks and time jumps didn't work for me, it made for jagged reading with a lot of pivotal stuff happening off page or glossed over. I couldn't connect with the characters and what I really struggled with was how loooong it took for the H and h to get together. Less flashbacks and more on building their relationship and the actual characters would've worked for me. The "real" hero Alec got virtually no air time and I finished this knowing as little about him as I did when I started the book :/
My other issue is that I really didn't want to have to read about her and her abusive husband's relationship for virtually the entire book to the point that there was little romance at all. The husband totally dominated the story, where it should have been Alec that shone.
My other issue is that I really didn't want to have to read about her and her abusive husband's relationship for virtually the entire book to the point that there was little romance at all. The husband totally dominated the story, where it should have been Alec that shone.
January 6, 2016
I heard about this author some good things and when I received the opportunity to read this book, I said yes, because I had some expectations. Unfortunately it wasn't what I was expecting.
Complete review on my blog Reading Addict
Complete review on my blog Reading Addict
November 23, 2015
Gritty, poignant and romantic, this novel evokes constant emotions. Gripping and fantastic from page one until the end.
January 17, 2016
Karolina and David Morgan have it all. Well, to those that look in from the outside. The house. The cars. Jewelry. An adoring relationship. However, on the inside they are in a cold and loveless marriage all based on façades and lies. Karolina was once a shining star that has grown dimmer as the years have gone on. Her life is now shrouded in darkness. She is now a shadow of her former self. One day the dimming light in Karolina and David’s marriage is threatened and the truth unravels. Slowly, but this truth hurts. It’s forceful. It changes everything as things were never as they seemed. Carolina must fight. And this fight is one she never saw coming.
The author seamlessly writes between past and present. We truly get to see Karolina with David and not only how they are, but also how they came to be. David is dark. It’s never on the surface, but his darkness is felt. In his actions. His words. You cannot help but question Karolina’s choices for staying in such an abusive relationship. The author allows the reader inside the pages of this story. You understand that there are so many layers. And as you peel back each one, Karolina becomes more relatable. You FEEL her anguish, her pain. The conflict. While her marriage and life is in pieces, she finds hope in the eyes of someone that just may save her.
Behind Her Smile is an intense and tantalizing read. I easily found myself engrossed in the story. Faultlessly written, this story gives the good, the bad, and the ugly parts of a relationship, marriage, and everything in between. When circumstances occur for Karolina to truly look deep within herself, she steps up to the plate. Fearlessly. I was in awe of her strength. There is something to be said about the resiliency of the human spirit. This story truly confirms the truth that love is the biggest sacrifice and how far one will go for the one they love. This was such a powerful, emotional, and passionate story of second chances, rediscovery, and truly understanding the depths of love and all it encompasses.
This book is a bit darker than Olivia’s previous books. Sexier. Edgier. Behind Her Smile attests to the true raw talent of this author in that she can write just about anything. While the love between Karolina and Alec is never easy, they find truth in their love. Alec’s selfless devotion to Karolina reminds us that love makes us vulnerable, but love is always the greatest risk.
Behind Her Smile is an awe inspiring story about love and what it can endure. A story of two individuals meant to fall in love despite their grave situations. This story is told in the most candidly and beautiful, yet honest way possible. Love drove Karolina to darkness, but in that, she also found her light in Alec. While she lost herself, she also rediscovered herself. That is strength. She recognized that the fight was always inside of her, but she needed to dig deep to find it. Ms. Luck holds nothing back in this novel. Her beautifully flawed characters endure a lot in their story. It is never easy. This is not a hearts and rainbows type of fluff story. The author goes there. I loved her genuine take on the truth about love and darkness and love and light. Their love story is certainly a journey, but it belongs to them.
The author seamlessly writes between past and present. We truly get to see Karolina with David and not only how they are, but also how they came to be. David is dark. It’s never on the surface, but his darkness is felt. In his actions. His words. You cannot help but question Karolina’s choices for staying in such an abusive relationship. The author allows the reader inside the pages of this story. You understand that there are so many layers. And as you peel back each one, Karolina becomes more relatable. You FEEL her anguish, her pain. The conflict. While her marriage and life is in pieces, she finds hope in the eyes of someone that just may save her.
Behind Her Smile is an intense and tantalizing read. I easily found myself engrossed in the story. Faultlessly written, this story gives the good, the bad, and the ugly parts of a relationship, marriage, and everything in between. When circumstances occur for Karolina to truly look deep within herself, she steps up to the plate. Fearlessly. I was in awe of her strength. There is something to be said about the resiliency of the human spirit. This story truly confirms the truth that love is the biggest sacrifice and how far one will go for the one they love. This was such a powerful, emotional, and passionate story of second chances, rediscovery, and truly understanding the depths of love and all it encompasses.
This book is a bit darker than Olivia’s previous books. Sexier. Edgier. Behind Her Smile attests to the true raw talent of this author in that she can write just about anything. While the love between Karolina and Alec is never easy, they find truth in their love. Alec’s selfless devotion to Karolina reminds us that love makes us vulnerable, but love is always the greatest risk.
Behind Her Smile is an awe inspiring story about love and what it can endure. A story of two individuals meant to fall in love despite their grave situations. This story is told in the most candidly and beautiful, yet honest way possible. Love drove Karolina to darkness, but in that, she also found her light in Alec. While she lost herself, she also rediscovered herself. That is strength. She recognized that the fight was always inside of her, but she needed to dig deep to find it. Ms. Luck holds nothing back in this novel. Her beautifully flawed characters endure a lot in their story. It is never easy. This is not a hearts and rainbows type of fluff story. The author goes there. I loved her genuine take on the truth about love and darkness and love and light. Their love story is certainly a journey, but it belongs to them.
January 7, 2016
Rating: 4.5 stars
Perfect image? Check. Perfect house? Check. Perfect marriage? Maybe from the outside. David's handsome, a wealthy financial business owner and his wife, Karolina, is the beautiful socialite wife with a fashion design hobby. Underneath all the wealth, power, and fancy stuff is something much more sinister. Karolina has become but a shadow of herself; desperate to not anger David any further she's given up everything she knows and loves including her friendship with Dora and Alec. When the power goes off one night, Karolina discovers that everything has been a lie and she'll have to do anything to save herself.
Told from Karolina and Alec's POV's and alternating past and present tense, Behind Her Smile is a fast-paced romantic suspense novel. Olivia Luck writes the kind of story you can't ignore, you will have so much empathy for the characters. When Karolina was scared, my heart was pumping right there with her, and at each glimpse of positivity in her life I gained a little bit of hope. Filled with gritty moments and passionate emotions, it was so easy to get sucked into this story. I really connected with Karolina, I struggled with her despondency when her life turned from good to bad to even worse. I wanted her to leave the bad so much, but I understood the draw of David, the difference between Karolina's life growing up and her life as an adult. Like most readers, I hated David and liked Alec, even when he failed to notice how terrible David was. Plus, in this case, girl wants bad boy ends up being a good thing! The friendship between Karolina and Alec isn't one I have read very often before, it isn't an easy friendship, there's a lot of emotions and baggage between them, but I think it makes them all the stronger when Karolina needs to lean on someone.
I really liked Olivia Luck's writing style. Behind Her Smile starts in the present and then backtracks to the beginning. We not only learn about Karolina's past, but we live it with her. It felt a lot like a suspenseful movie, you're given bits and pieces of the story overtime. I was shocked when things took a turn for the worse, because of course everything was going so well. In this case, too good to be true is the perfect description. There is abuse, there are horrifying moments that made me cringe, but there are also really beautiful moments filled with friendship and life. I was so hooked on this book I couldn't put it down, I started it on the treadmill and I couldn't stop reading so I just kept going. While it isn't the usual romance, it's a passionate and suspenseful story of finding personal strength, giving not only yourself but others second chances, and seeing that image is not all it's made out to be.
Perfect image? Check. Perfect house? Check. Perfect marriage? Maybe from the outside. David's handsome, a wealthy financial business owner and his wife, Karolina, is the beautiful socialite wife with a fashion design hobby. Underneath all the wealth, power, and fancy stuff is something much more sinister. Karolina has become but a shadow of herself; desperate to not anger David any further she's given up everything she knows and loves including her friendship with Dora and Alec. When the power goes off one night, Karolina discovers that everything has been a lie and she'll have to do anything to save herself.
Told from Karolina and Alec's POV's and alternating past and present tense, Behind Her Smile is a fast-paced romantic suspense novel. Olivia Luck writes the kind of story you can't ignore, you will have so much empathy for the characters. When Karolina was scared, my heart was pumping right there with her, and at each glimpse of positivity in her life I gained a little bit of hope. Filled with gritty moments and passionate emotions, it was so easy to get sucked into this story. I really connected with Karolina, I struggled with her despondency when her life turned from good to bad to even worse. I wanted her to leave the bad so much, but I understood the draw of David, the difference between Karolina's life growing up and her life as an adult. Like most readers, I hated David and liked Alec, even when he failed to notice how terrible David was. Plus, in this case, girl wants bad boy ends up being a good thing! The friendship between Karolina and Alec isn't one I have read very often before, it isn't an easy friendship, there's a lot of emotions and baggage between them, but I think it makes them all the stronger when Karolina needs to lean on someone.
I really liked Olivia Luck's writing style. Behind Her Smile starts in the present and then backtracks to the beginning. We not only learn about Karolina's past, but we live it with her. It felt a lot like a suspenseful movie, you're given bits and pieces of the story overtime. I was shocked when things took a turn for the worse, because of course everything was going so well. In this case, too good to be true is the perfect description. There is abuse, there are horrifying moments that made me cringe, but there are also really beautiful moments filled with friendship and life. I was so hooked on this book I couldn't put it down, I started it on the treadmill and I couldn't stop reading so I just kept going. While it isn't the usual romance, it's a passionate and suspenseful story of finding personal strength, giving not only yourself but others second chances, and seeing that image is not all it's made out to be.
January 5, 2016
Josie's Review 4.5 STARS
This author starts this book with a huge stomach clenching scene, and from there I just knew this was going to consume every one of my emotions. The author does an absolute amazing job with how she started this book. Starting in the present and then shifting to the past gave readers a solid look into the couples past. I thought it was brilliant showing us how Karolina (the small girl from a trailer park) ended up married to David a millionaire.
I have to say this, Karolina’s life with David was not at all like it looked from the outside world. My heart broke for this young woman, she loved her husband and wanted to make him happy. David controlled her life right from the very start. She lost her one and only friend, dropped out of school, her only job was that to take care of David and smile and look gorgeous at events. Karolina’s life with David was filled with degradation, pain, deceit, loss, manipulation, and violence.
Through Karolina’s pain she found hope and a connection with someone David considered his enemy, Alec. Here is the clincher, at the very start of her relationship with David, Alec also wanted Karolina. Over the years we see a broken, battered and lonely Karolina find herself. She starts to see herself as Alec sees her.
Alec, was to die for. I originally thought he was no good, he proved me wrong. His patience, understanding and care with Karolina stole my heart. There was an honest and pure love in David.One that helped Karolina learn to live, love and be free again.
The author tells the story in both Karolina and Alex POV’s. I really loved reading Alec’s true thoughts. The conflicts and rage he battled in his head over what Karolina endured was just something that really enhanced his character and made me fall in love with this hero. I love how the author left readers trying to guess what was going to happen next. There were two times in this carefully written story that the author left my speechless. The special bond and connection between Alec and Karolina was heartfelt, clean and truly captivating. Alec and Karolina’s love will be tested once David’s past comes knocking on Karolina’s door. Can Karolina and Alec survive David’s demons? Will Karolina become a victim again? I highly recommend this story.
January 8, 2016
Full review to follow!!
January 7, 2016
Meeting Karolina at the lowest point of her life, readers are taken on a journey of heartache, abuse and pain. Accompanied by years of self-doubt, vulnerability and uncertainty, Behind Her Smile is not for the faint hearted. Showcasing her skills as a writer, Olivia Luck writes her best work yet. Executed with such honesty, realism and authenticity; the rise and fall of Karolina Morgan will break your heart.
The Morgan name brings in wealth, status and apparently a whole lot of trouble. Meeting at the young and naïve age of 21, Karolina’s heart is captivated by the older yet charismatic, handsome and attractively domineering David Morgan. Aspiring designer Karolina believes he is her answer to everything. The love of her life. Success, Love, Family – all the things she craved, everything she was unknowingly seeking.
From the very beginning Olivia Luck entices readers with such drama that one can not help but become engrossed into the development of this heartbreaking story. Revealing that Karolina is stuck in a loveless and abusive marriage, Karolina and readers are desperate for her to break free. Behind Her Smile is the perfect balance of past and present, showing off the stark contrast between the woman Karolina was and the woman she is slowly becoming,
Witnessing the brutality and cruelty handed by David, readers will understand and become familiar with Karolina; and above all empathise. With her choices, her experiences and her hopefulness.
In a story filled with unexpected twist and turns, Olivia Luck successfully brings to life Behind Her Smile. In a complex yet relatable story line, Luck transitions from heartache to heartwarming, perfectly. Paying respect to the dire situation Karolina and many other women find themselves in, Olivia Luck has captured every tear and every smile. Giving these moments weight and significance, lasting beyond this book.
The Morgan name brings in wealth, status and apparently a whole lot of trouble. Meeting at the young and naïve age of 21, Karolina’s heart is captivated by the older yet charismatic, handsome and attractively domineering David Morgan. Aspiring designer Karolina believes he is her answer to everything. The love of her life. Success, Love, Family – all the things she craved, everything she was unknowingly seeking.
From the very beginning Olivia Luck entices readers with such drama that one can not help but become engrossed into the development of this heartbreaking story. Revealing that Karolina is stuck in a loveless and abusive marriage, Karolina and readers are desperate for her to break free. Behind Her Smile is the perfect balance of past and present, showing off the stark contrast between the woman Karolina was and the woman she is slowly becoming,
Witnessing the brutality and cruelty handed by David, readers will understand and become familiar with Karolina; and above all empathise. With her choices, her experiences and her hopefulness.
In a story filled with unexpected twist and turns, Olivia Luck successfully brings to life Behind Her Smile. In a complex yet relatable story line, Luck transitions from heartache to heartwarming, perfectly. Paying respect to the dire situation Karolina and many other women find themselves in, Olivia Luck has captured every tear and every smile. Giving these moments weight and significance, lasting beyond this book.
January 7, 2016
I'll admit, I had NO idea what I was getting into when I started this book. I solely decided to read it because I've read almost every (if not all) title Olivia Luck has written. I love her style, I love her stories, and I love her characters. I knew that I would have the same feelings reading this book that I have had with every other story I've read of hers...
But I didn't.
This was more. More pain. More heartache. More darkness. More everything. Behind the facade of a happy life lies secrets and hurt no one wants to admit they live through...that's what this story is about & I was surprised with each passing page, chapter, time frame. I never wanted it to end and yet was happy it did.
Luck does a fantastic job of immersing you into a life only your imagination can take you...yet, the reality of the situations are so almost normal--which of course--that's too calm of a word, that you can't help but keep reading. This book holds many triggers for people who may have suffered at the hands of another (especially someone they love/d) so please read any synopsis, disclaimers, reviews prior to picking this book up.
For me and my dark, morbid curiosity of the depths of writers' imagination, I couldn't put it down. I couldn't concentrate to read for long periods of time while reading this because of outside influence, which angered me, but when I did I was gone. Instantly placed in a world I recognize and learned some hard lessons from. Definitely a 5-star read.
**5 Looks Aren't Everything, Stars**
But I didn't.
This was more. More pain. More heartache. More darkness. More everything. Behind the facade of a happy life lies secrets and hurt no one wants to admit they live through...that's what this story is about & I was surprised with each passing page, chapter, time frame. I never wanted it to end and yet was happy it did.
Luck does a fantastic job of immersing you into a life only your imagination can take you...yet, the reality of the situations are so almost normal--which of course--that's too calm of a word, that you can't help but keep reading. This book holds many triggers for people who may have suffered at the hands of another (especially someone they love/d) so please read any synopsis, disclaimers, reviews prior to picking this book up.
For me and my dark, morbid curiosity of the depths of writers' imagination, I couldn't put it down. I couldn't concentrate to read for long periods of time while reading this because of outside influence, which angered me, but when I did I was gone. Instantly placed in a world I recognize and learned some hard lessons from. Definitely a 5-star read.
**5 Looks Aren't Everything, Stars**
December 13, 2015
One of my favourite authors that I enjoy is Olivia Luck, so when I saw that she had a new one coming out - I knew I just had to read it. Behind Her Smile takes us into the life of the Morgans - David and his wife Karolina. Karolina came from nothing , but learned to live in luxury but she discovered as the years went by that having everything costs more than it should - it cost her almost her life. David had money and wealth and what he wanted, he normally got and if it wasn't looking like he would get it - he would do anything to make it his and so when tragedy struck his family , he did what he thought he needed to in order to succeed he married starstruck and naive Karolina. Over the next five years, we will read as we discover that often the perfect families are not the perfect ones behind closed doors as Karolina suffered abuse at David's hands. What will happen though now that her life is in danger as both her and David are kidnapped ? Is this finally Karolina's chance of freedom from her life she has lived and learned to hate ? Behind Her Smile flips back and forth from the time just before Karolina first met David to now and after their five year wedding anniversary. When everything is finally over, will Karolina be able to have someone to lean on or has David made sure she has been ostracised by those who know her and their family ?
Behind Her Smile was another edgy and wonderful book by Olivia Luck and I look forward to what else she has in mind for the upcoming year.
Behind Her Smile was another edgy and wonderful book by Olivia Luck and I look forward to what else she has in mind for the upcoming year.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 9, 2016
This book takes us through a five year time span to see how Karolina goes from being a very promising and creative fashion design student to the proper and very controlled wife of David Morgan, head of a major financial company. We know quickly that David is a very controlling and abusive person and that Karolina has been expected to present as the perfect socialite and representative of David and his company. We also know that something intense and terrible is going on at present. As the chapters take us back and forth through the past five years, we see how David manipulated Karolina into feeling like she didn't have choices and kept her stuck in a marriage that was crushing her.
Karolina is an easy character to care about. It is tough to see her feeling so trapped in an awful situation and then understanding that things are even more dangerous than even she realizes. It is rewarding to find out that there are people who care for her and will try hard to help her get free and be the independent free woman she deserves to be.
This book is intriguing, and at times it is difficult to experience everything that is happening to Karolina. I would have liked to know more about some of the other characters who come out in support of Karolina. Seeing her find herself and rediscover her own strength and independence is very rewarding. I have enjoyed other books by this author and will continue to read books by her in the future. 3.5 stars.
*An ARC was provided in exchange for an honest review
Karolina is an easy character to care about. It is tough to see her feeling so trapped in an awful situation and then understanding that things are even more dangerous than even she realizes. It is rewarding to find out that there are people who care for her and will try hard to help her get free and be the independent free woman she deserves to be.
This book is intriguing, and at times it is difficult to experience everything that is happening to Karolina. I would have liked to know more about some of the other characters who come out in support of Karolina. Seeing her find herself and rediscover her own strength and independence is very rewarding. I have enjoyed other books by this author and will continue to read books by her in the future. 3.5 stars.
*An ARC was provided in exchange for an honest review
January 9, 2016
This book is the perfect example that you never know what goes on behind closed doors. You think someone has the perfect life but you are making that saying true. "When you ASSume you make an ASS out of U and ME".
I love that this book isn't the typical hearts and flowers romance. It's a wonderful story of hope and love that takes the hard road to get there. The emotional roller coaster you ride from beginning to end is one that reminds any romance reader why they choose to love this genre. Not only did Olivia give a heartbreaking and beautiful tale here but it's also one that leaves you feeling like you learned something from it. The overwhelming under current of hope in this book had me reading it in one sitting. I just couldn't put it down.
An instant favorite and I can't wait to read more from Olivia
ARC in exchange for honest review
I love that this book isn't the typical hearts and flowers romance. It's a wonderful story of hope and love that takes the hard road to get there. The emotional roller coaster you ride from beginning to end is one that reminds any romance reader why they choose to love this genre. Not only did Olivia give a heartbreaking and beautiful tale here but it's also one that leaves you feeling like you learned something from it. The overwhelming under current of hope in this book had me reading it in one sitting. I just couldn't put it down.
An instant favorite and I can't wait to read more from Olivia
ARC in exchange for honest review
December 23, 2015
Behind Her Smile had me pulled in right from the beginning. It switches between past and present flawlessly and is not distracting or confusing. My heart was racing as I was reading and feeling so many emotions throughout. Karolina's story is heartbreaking but triumphant in the end, it's about finding herself, survival and surviving. There were times I wanted to shake her and tell her to run but in the end my heart sighed and I felt proud that she was strong enough and had loved ones to help her. This is the first book I've read of Olivia Luck and I can say that I loved every word and look forward to reading more from Olivia.
Reviewed for United Indie Book Blog
December 29, 2015
Behind Her Smile had me pulled in right from the beginning. It switches between past and present flawlessly and is not distracting or confusing. My heart was racing as I was reading and feeling so many emotions throughout. Karolina's story is heartbreaking but triumphant in the end, it's about finding herself, survival and surviving. There were times I wanted to shake her and tell her to run but in the end my heart sighed and I felt proud that she was strong enough and had loved ones to help her. This is the first book I've read of Olivia Luck and I can say that I loved every word and look forward to reading more from Olivia.
Review by Raychel
Review by Raychel
January 6, 2016
I pretty much inhaled this story. Once I started it I couldn't put it down. Going from 'just one more chapter' to I'm reading until I've finished it ended up me pulling a late nighter.
Now I wish I could delete it from my memory and read it again for the first time just for the feels I got while reading it.
I'm not gonna say anything about the storyline. The synopsis gives enough to tease us. However there is so much more. Great storyline with real solid characters.
A story of second chances that pulled on my emotions. If your looking for a raw, emotional and beautiful story then I highly recommend this fantastic read. I loved it.
Now I wish I could delete it from my memory and read it again for the first time just for the feels I got while reading it.
I'm not gonna say anything about the storyline. The synopsis gives enough to tease us. However there is so much more. Great storyline with real solid characters.
A story of second chances that pulled on my emotions. If your looking for a raw, emotional and beautiful story then I highly recommend this fantastic read. I loved it.
February 9, 2016
Not all stories make your heart race with excitement, some stories flow slowly from the pages and melt into your soul. For me, Behind Her Smile is one of those stories. I will admit that it took some time for this book to engage me fully. A bit slow paced, but once I became invested in the story, I was lost. This book will touch you and challenge you, it's a beautiful, poignant and unforgettable story about doubting ones self, survival, healing, and a second chance at life and love.
*ARC provided by the author for an honest review
*ARC provided by the author for an honest review
April 25, 2018
This was good, probably between a 3 and 4 star read. Very soapy with lots of drama. Some of the dialogue felt contrived at times, but I was still drawn into the plot. The first half was a real page turner and I did want to reach in the book and save Karolina from her self. David was pretty freaking mental and I wished his character was a little more three dimensional. I thought the glimpse of his relationship with his family was interesting and I wish there was more of those types of scenes. I thought the book would end at the 3/4 point after the big climax, but I found it refreshing the author chose to focus on the AFTER part of the story.
April 26, 2017
One of the best books I ever read!! Dont know why this book didnt had the spotlight it deserves but 5+++ stars for Ms. Luck !!! I love the twist, the mixed-time plot. And the ending ❤️❤️❤️
January 6, 2016
This book shows us looks are deceiving. When Karolina first meets David she finds him to be kind and charming. He wiggles his way into her world by making her feel safe, loved and protected. He treated like a precious jewel. Whereas she believed Alec to be a smarmy guy to be wary of. Turns out she was wrong. so so wrong.
this story will have you wondering what the heck Karolina was thinking and hoping and praying she comes out of this in one piece. We see this from her point of view and a few times we are privileged to see Alec’s thoughts. You start with a smile on your face as you read the romance of Karolina and David. How he swept her off her feet and she believed he loved her. That is all she wanted was to feel loved. Suddenly tragedy strikes David’s world. We see a chink in his armor of good. We see slip and show anger but than his facade comes back and he treasures Karolina again. He manipulates her into marrying him so he isn’t alone. He makes her feel desired and wanted. This doesn’t last to long though and we see just how much of a nightmare her world is. There is a little light in her world though and that is Alec. Alec the one she thought was smarmy. Alec who treats her with respect and kindness. Alec who wants to hear her thoughts and opinions. He encourages her to be herself and makes her feel safe.
This book about the five nightmarish years of Karolina and her time with her husband David. How they met, got together and once married what her life was like. We see that David is a wolf in sheeps clothing. What he does in the end is shocking in a way because of why not because of the actions. We read about Alec and how he isn’t what he seemed and we see his love for Karolina. After the nightmare five years and the ordeal she went through to be free, we get to read of her putting her life back together and see how Alec finds a place in that new life. We see a friendship regrow and love blossom. We see a HEA for them both.
The story is gripping and sad at times. You feel for Karolina and her ordeal. It is so horrible to see what she went through in her time with David. As she fights to put the pieces together we see Karolina change and become stronger and more sure of herself. She finds herself again and begins to like herself once more. Alec helps her with this as well. He shows her friendship, kindness and respect. He loves her unconditionally and waits for her. You begin to feel hope at the end and root for Karolina to be happy and safe.
this is a emotionally charged gripping book about a woman’s desire to find love and the ordeal she goes through when she thinks she has. It is also about how she comes out of the ordeal and finds herself and happiness once again. A book that will have you rooting for Karolina and wanting to smack David while hoping Alec gets the girl in the end someday. The ending will put a smile on your face.
this story will have you wondering what the heck Karolina was thinking and hoping and praying she comes out of this in one piece. We see this from her point of view and a few times we are privileged to see Alec’s thoughts. You start with a smile on your face as you read the romance of Karolina and David. How he swept her off her feet and she believed he loved her. That is all she wanted was to feel loved. Suddenly tragedy strikes David’s world. We see a chink in his armor of good. We see slip and show anger but than his facade comes back and he treasures Karolina again. He manipulates her into marrying him so he isn’t alone. He makes her feel desired and wanted. This doesn’t last to long though and we see just how much of a nightmare her world is. There is a little light in her world though and that is Alec. Alec the one she thought was smarmy. Alec who treats her with respect and kindness. Alec who wants to hear her thoughts and opinions. He encourages her to be herself and makes her feel safe.
This book about the five nightmarish years of Karolina and her time with her husband David. How they met, got together and once married what her life was like. We see that David is a wolf in sheeps clothing. What he does in the end is shocking in a way because of why not because of the actions. We read about Alec and how he isn’t what he seemed and we see his love for Karolina. After the nightmare five years and the ordeal she went through to be free, we get to read of her putting her life back together and see how Alec finds a place in that new life. We see a friendship regrow and love blossom. We see a HEA for them both.
The story is gripping and sad at times. You feel for Karolina and her ordeal. It is so horrible to see what she went through in her time with David. As she fights to put the pieces together we see Karolina change and become stronger and more sure of herself. She finds herself again and begins to like herself once more. Alec helps her with this as well. He shows her friendship, kindness and respect. He loves her unconditionally and waits for her. You begin to feel hope at the end and root for Karolina to be happy and safe.
this is a emotionally charged gripping book about a woman’s desire to find love and the ordeal she goes through when she thinks she has. It is also about how she comes out of the ordeal and finds herself and happiness once again. A book that will have you rooting for Karolina and wanting to smack David while hoping Alec gets the girl in the end someday. The ending will put a smile on your face.
February 4, 2016
5 Stars!!!
I was given this book in turn for an honest review.
To the outside world David Morgan adored Karolina his wife; behind closed doors he was a manipulator. Karolina's world is about to collapse; the life she knew is much darker than she ever imagined. Can she fight to survive?
Olivia Luck pulled out all the stops with Behind Her Smile. Karolina's story is one that will rip your heart out and leave you fighting to read on, all at the same time. This is a story about survival; a fight to live a life she believes is good, a life she believes woman would love to live. Karolina fights with her inner turmoil over what is right, what is wrong, what is love and what is hate. She lives a life that is a shadow of her former self; one that is full of lies, deceit and is heart wrenching.
I wanted to crawl into my kindle grab Karolina and hug life and love back into her; whilst also wanting to grab David Morgan by his balls and feed him to a pack of wolves!
Karolina's character is far from weak; with her past being one where she was unloved and not truly cared for, the sight of true love, she like any of us searching to be wanted was blindsided by the truth. She wanted to see the best in David and believe he loved her, that he was simply a stressed, hardworking man.
David was not only a manipulator, he was pure evil. He would go to great lengths to have what he believed belonged to him and to get what he wanted. He was a bully, a thug, a complete a*sehole! He was a great actor, protruding to the world that he was someone he really wasn't.
One character in this book pleasantly surprised me; I was very unsure of their true characteristics and intentions at first. As the story progressed I fell for them and hard, they were in fact the sweetest and most loyal person you could have asked for.
Olivia Luck has in my opinion truly outdone herself with Behind Her Smile, this to me is her best book yet and I can't wait to read more from her.
If you love dark romances with suspense, you will absolutely love Behind Her Smile by Olivia Luck.
I was given this book in turn for an honest review.
To the outside world David Morgan adored Karolina his wife; behind closed doors he was a manipulator. Karolina's world is about to collapse; the life she knew is much darker than she ever imagined. Can she fight to survive?
Olivia Luck pulled out all the stops with Behind Her Smile. Karolina's story is one that will rip your heart out and leave you fighting to read on, all at the same time. This is a story about survival; a fight to live a life she believes is good, a life she believes woman would love to live. Karolina fights with her inner turmoil over what is right, what is wrong, what is love and what is hate. She lives a life that is a shadow of her former self; one that is full of lies, deceit and is heart wrenching.
I wanted to crawl into my kindle grab Karolina and hug life and love back into her; whilst also wanting to grab David Morgan by his balls and feed him to a pack of wolves!
Karolina's character is far from weak; with her past being one where she was unloved and not truly cared for, the sight of true love, she like any of us searching to be wanted was blindsided by the truth. She wanted to see the best in David and believe he loved her, that he was simply a stressed, hardworking man.
David was not only a manipulator, he was pure evil. He would go to great lengths to have what he believed belonged to him and to get what he wanted. He was a bully, a thug, a complete a*sehole! He was a great actor, protruding to the world that he was someone he really wasn't.
One character in this book pleasantly surprised me; I was very unsure of their true characteristics and intentions at first. As the story progressed I fell for them and hard, they were in fact the sweetest and most loyal person you could have asked for.
Olivia Luck has in my opinion truly outdone herself with Behind Her Smile, this to me is her best book yet and I can't wait to read more from her.
If you love dark romances with suspense, you will absolutely love Behind Her Smile by Olivia Luck.
January 5, 2016
Behind Her Smile
By Olivia Luck
"David knows exactly how to charm his prey. Bestowing compliments on one of my original designs is my biggest weakness. Under his praise, my shoulders straighten. Despite everything, I still blossom under a compliment from David."
This book was unlike any that I have read from Olivia. The tone and mood set by Olivia was truly bewitching. Within the first paragraph, I was captivated. As I continued reading, the topics that arose were very heart wrenching and at times, tough to read, but Olivia delivered these real-life scenarios with grace.
"Belong. The word sums up my relationship with David accurately. My husband dictates all of my movements, activities, relationships . . . And I don’t have the guts to stand up to him and demand equal footing."
Karolina is a shy, closed-in woman, who unknowingly demands the attention of David, a high class man of perfection. Their instantaneous, whirlwind romance is enough to sweep any woman off of their feet. Alec is a combination of heaven and hell, and his presence alone can bring a woman to their knees, but what what are his intentions? Is he trustworthy? When secrets, strange behaviours, and the evil truth comes out, Karolina must face her true self, and do what she needs, to stay safe.
"The emotion overpowers me. Relentless sobs wrack my body. Tears course down my cheeks, dualing rivers dripping off my chin and onto my clothing. My breaths are shallow and uneven. I can’t pretend I don’t hurt anymore. Everything pours out of me—the grief, loneliness, and utter despair threaten to swallow me whole."
I think I read this book within hours of starting it! I've been known to be the up-all-night reader, and well, this book helped me keep that title. I 100% recommend this book! Like I said earlier, even though it's not like Olivia's prior books, it is definitely read-worthy! Bravo Olivia!
By Olivia Luck
"David knows exactly how to charm his prey. Bestowing compliments on one of my original designs is my biggest weakness. Under his praise, my shoulders straighten. Despite everything, I still blossom under a compliment from David."
This book was unlike any that I have read from Olivia. The tone and mood set by Olivia was truly bewitching. Within the first paragraph, I was captivated. As I continued reading, the topics that arose were very heart wrenching and at times, tough to read, but Olivia delivered these real-life scenarios with grace.
"Belong. The word sums up my relationship with David accurately. My husband dictates all of my movements, activities, relationships . . . And I don’t have the guts to stand up to him and demand equal footing."
Karolina is a shy, closed-in woman, who unknowingly demands the attention of David, a high class man of perfection. Their instantaneous, whirlwind romance is enough to sweep any woman off of their feet. Alec is a combination of heaven and hell, and his presence alone can bring a woman to their knees, but what what are his intentions? Is he trustworthy? When secrets, strange behaviours, and the evil truth comes out, Karolina must face her true self, and do what she needs, to stay safe.
"The emotion overpowers me. Relentless sobs wrack my body. Tears course down my cheeks, dualing rivers dripping off my chin and onto my clothing. My breaths are shallow and uneven. I can’t pretend I don’t hurt anymore. Everything pours out of me—the grief, loneliness, and utter despair threaten to swallow me whole."
I think I read this book within hours of starting it! I've been known to be the up-all-night reader, and well, this book helped me keep that title. I 100% recommend this book! Like I said earlier, even though it's not like Olivia's prior books, it is definitely read-worthy! Bravo Olivia!
January 7, 2016
RECEIVED ARC FOR HONEST REVIEW
*** Warning readers for 18+, This story has triggers that may not be suitable for you if you have a problem with any of the following: Violence, forms of Abuse physically and Mental.***
Wow, I am lost for words about this! This was definitely a first for me, when I read this I was coming up with all kinds of scenarios on what would happen next or who did what and why. I love a good Mystery Romance and definitely brought out my inner detective ha!
I was sucked into this book and didn’t want it to end! I love a good twist and this book and many. Every character was my favorite!
David a man who grew up with a family who portrayed that image is everything. In the public eye you are one big happy family with a thriving business and a wealthy background.
Karolina didn't grow up in a lavish world and a perfect family image is was the opposite. But it never stopped her from continuing her dreams to become a Fashion designer. Until she met David and everything changed.
This story was a big eye opener for me. I have seen many women who have been in similar situations and some may survive and leave and some simply stay and their lives end up better or worse. Karoline may not be a perfect role model for women but she was an amazing character and I envy the courage she has but I feel for her and hate the situations she was put through.
I loved everything about this book and glad it didn't disappoint. I barely found missed writing but nothing stood out that i couldn't comprehend what was happening. I can’t wait to read more books by Olivia Luck!
*** Warning readers for 18+, This story has triggers that may not be suitable for you if you have a problem with any of the following: Violence, forms of Abuse physically and Mental.***
*** Warning readers for 18+, This story has triggers that may not be suitable for you if you have a problem with any of the following: Violence, forms of Abuse physically and Mental.***
Wow, I am lost for words about this! This was definitely a first for me, when I read this I was coming up with all kinds of scenarios on what would happen next or who did what and why. I love a good Mystery Romance and definitely brought out my inner detective ha!
I was sucked into this book and didn’t want it to end! I love a good twist and this book and many. Every character was my favorite!
David a man who grew up with a family who portrayed that image is everything. In the public eye you are one big happy family with a thriving business and a wealthy background.
Karolina didn't grow up in a lavish world and a perfect family image is was the opposite. But it never stopped her from continuing her dreams to become a Fashion designer. Until she met David and everything changed.
This story was a big eye opener for me. I have seen many women who have been in similar situations and some may survive and leave and some simply stay and their lives end up better or worse. Karoline may not be a perfect role model for women but she was an amazing character and I envy the courage she has but I feel for her and hate the situations she was put through.
I loved everything about this book and glad it didn't disappoint. I barely found missed writing but nothing stood out that i couldn't comprehend what was happening. I can’t wait to read more books by Olivia Luck!
*** Warning readers for 18+, This story has triggers that may not be suitable for you if you have a problem with any of the following: Violence, forms of Abuse physically and Mental.***
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