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After the Hurt
Shana Gray’s provocative novel features a resilient fighter going round for tantalizing round with the one that got away—a headstrong woman bent on seduction.
Pepper Chapman refuses to throw in the towel. Six months ago, she made the biggest mistake of her life. Blinded by grief after her mom’s death, Pepper abandoned the man she loves. Now she wants a second chance at everything she gave up: strong hands driving her to ecstasy . . . a deep voice whispering naughty promises in her ear . . . the future they’d planned since they were teenagers. So Pepper comes home looking for forgiveness, ready for a new beginning—if he’s willing to give her a shot.
Retired MMA star Tank Sherman may be used to low blows, but Pepper’s emotional sucker punch left him reeling. Trying to ignore the pain and forget the pleasure of her body beneath his, Tank is prepared to ring the final bell on their relationship. Then Pepper shows up out of the blue, radiating pure sex. But Tank won’t let himself get hurt again, and that means resisting the heat that still burns between them. Because if he takes Pepper back, he knows he’ll never be able to let her go again.
Includes a special message from the editor, as well as an excerpt from another Loveswept title.
Pepper Chapman refuses to throw in the towel. Six months ago, she made the biggest mistake of her life. Blinded by grief after her mom’s death, Pepper abandoned the man she loves. Now she wants a second chance at everything she gave up: strong hands driving her to ecstasy . . . a deep voice whispering naughty promises in her ear . . . the future they’d planned since they were teenagers. So Pepper comes home looking for forgiveness, ready for a new beginning—if he’s willing to give her a shot.
Retired MMA star Tank Sherman may be used to low blows, but Pepper’s emotional sucker punch left him reeling. Trying to ignore the pain and forget the pleasure of her body beneath his, Tank is prepared to ring the final bell on their relationship. Then Pepper shows up out of the blue, radiating pure sex. But Tank won’t let himself get hurt again, and that means resisting the heat that still burns between them. Because if he takes Pepper back, he knows he’ll never be able to let her go again.
Includes a special message from the editor, as well as an excerpt from another Loveswept title.
211 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 29, 2016
12 people are currently reading
167 people want to read
About the author
Shana Gray
57 books497 followersShana Gray writes contemporary romance and women’s fiction that just might make you laugh. With 35+ books behind her, some translated into multiple languages, she’s always eyeing the next story line. Usually she can be found daydreaming about life, and making travel plans to far off lands to feed her wanderlust.
Sign up for her newsletter and receive a complimentary Book Journal download. https://landing.mailerlite.com/webfor...
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Shana is represented by Louise Fury of The Fury Agency.
Visit her online at shanagray.com
Twitter @shanagray_
Facebook: Shana Gray
Sign up for her newsletter and receive a complimentary Book Journal download. https://landing.mailerlite.com/webfor...
Join Shana on her Facebook reader page Shana's Shananigators https://www.facebook.com/groups/24552...
Shana is represented by Louise Fury of The Fury Agency.
Visit her online at shanagray.com
Twitter @shanagray_
Facebook: Shana Gray
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March 29, 2016DNF @ 25%
This is becoming a habit for me this week.
I gave it my all with this one but it's just not working for me. Lately my biggest pet peeve as a reader is having to suffer through an abundance of inner monologue without the actual character dialogue and interactions to back it up.
Basically, I need more than just the deep thoughts and ruminations.
When I have to flip back several pages to try and figure out what the hell the characters were talking about in the first place, it's an issue.
ARC provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
This is becoming a habit for me this week.
I gave it my all with this one but it's just not working for me. Lately my biggest pet peeve as a reader is having to suffer through an abundance of inner monologue without the actual character dialogue and interactions to back it up.
Basically, I need more than just the deep thoughts and ruminations.
When I have to flip back several pages to try and figure out what the hell the characters were talking about in the first place, it's an issue.
ARC provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
March 23, 2016
1 - "Did I offend?" Star.
DNF @ 23%
I tried I really did, but as a reader I personally enjoy a bit of story development with my inner monologue. By the point I stopped reading Pepper and Tank had said about 30 sentences to each other, most of them no more than a few words long, and I was still struggling to understand what was going on apart from the fact she’s returned unexpectedly to Toronto from a six month trip to Bali after the untimely death of her mother.
Add in another completely random woman by the name of Olivia, who may or may not be stalking Tank after only three dates, and this is a story for me that needs to give out more pointers in its early stages as to what its actually about.
It was the stuff that romance novels were made of…
Notsomuch, told from dual POV, or should I say dual inner-monologue you really see a lot of the inner working of this pairs minds, and I can’t really say anything coming from either of them really endeared me in anyway either, and I think this is the main problem, if you want to fill a book with lengthy inner monologues you need to progress the story within them as well as develop the reasonings the characters are at the point they are with each other, you don’t really get that and because of it I had absolutely no investment or interest in seeing whether he lets her back in his bed or not.
Not a winner for me on this occasion, the author is new to me as well, in all honesty I am not sure I would look too read more after reading this one, if this is her usual writing style I am pretty sure it wouldn’t work for me in future books either.
ARC generously provided via Netgalley, I am sorry I cannot offer a more positive review on this occasion.
DNF @ 23%
I tried I really did, but as a reader I personally enjoy a bit of story development with my inner monologue. By the point I stopped reading Pepper and Tank had said about 30 sentences to each other, most of them no more than a few words long, and I was still struggling to understand what was going on apart from the fact she’s returned unexpectedly to Toronto from a six month trip to Bali after the untimely death of her mother.
Add in another completely random woman by the name of Olivia, who may or may not be stalking Tank after only three dates, and this is a story for me that needs to give out more pointers in its early stages as to what its actually about.
It was the stuff that romance novels were made of…
Notsomuch, told from dual POV, or should I say dual inner-monologue you really see a lot of the inner working of this pairs minds, and I can’t really say anything coming from either of them really endeared me in anyway either, and I think this is the main problem, if you want to fill a book with lengthy inner monologues you need to progress the story within them as well as develop the reasonings the characters are at the point they are with each other, you don’t really get that and because of it I had absolutely no investment or interest in seeing whether he lets her back in his bed or not.
Not a winner for me on this occasion, the author is new to me as well, in all honesty I am not sure I would look too read more after reading this one, if this is her usual writing style I am pretty sure it wouldn’t work for me in future books either.
ARC generously provided via Netgalley, I am sorry I cannot offer a more positive review on this occasion.
March 6, 2016
ARC provided by publisher in exchange for an honest review
“She held his hands more firmly in case he tried to pull away. It broke her heart that he seemed completely unaware of the fact that she was almost dying inside. He’d known her so well ; how could he not see she’d never lost her love for him? Pepper organized her thoughts, shielding her true feelings. At least for now. Her fragile heart depended on it.”
I am a big fan of second chance romance and so when I read the blurb of After The Hurt by Shana Gray, I was intrigued and I couldn’t wait to read this book. But sadly this book was just okay. It lacked the story line to keep me entertained as I found it to be lacking the deep emotional pull for me to love the characters especially the heroine, Pepper. I like the concept of trying to work things out but the inner dialogue of Pepper and Tank were beginning to feel repetitive and so it didn’t draw me in that I found myself skimming through. This book was missing depth, the connection, and the feel of every second chance romance. Don’t get me wrong this book had so much potential but sadly it was not the book for me.
Review can also be found on Four Chicks Flipping Pages: http://fourchicksflippingpages.weebly...
“She held his hands more firmly in case he tried to pull away. It broke her heart that he seemed completely unaware of the fact that she was almost dying inside. He’d known her so well ; how could he not see she’d never lost her love for him? Pepper organized her thoughts, shielding her true feelings. At least for now. Her fragile heart depended on it.”I am a big fan of second chance romance and so when I read the blurb of After The Hurt by Shana Gray, I was intrigued and I couldn’t wait to read this book. But sadly this book was just okay. It lacked the story line to keep me entertained as I found it to be lacking the deep emotional pull for me to love the characters especially the heroine, Pepper. I like the concept of trying to work things out but the inner dialogue of Pepper and Tank were beginning to feel repetitive and so it didn’t draw me in that I found myself skimming through. This book was missing depth, the connection, and the feel of every second chance romance. Don’t get me wrong this book had so much potential but sadly it was not the book for me.
Review can also be found on Four Chicks Flipping Pages: http://fourchicksflippingpages.weebly...
April 6, 2016
2.5 Stars
The offer of second chance romance sucked me in again with the story of Pepper and Tank, old lovers with 6 months of distance between them after Pepper ran off without a word. I love the idea that these two had so many years behind them and were willing to give each other a chance to right the wrongs. While the characters had this intense chemistry between them, there was a lack of dialogue and the inner monologue skipped around a lot, so I never felt connected to either character. The book does a great job of showing how love can win and I enjoyed reading the character's face their own personal fears to allow room for the other. However, I just never fell in love with Tank and Pepper as a couple, the story just didn't flow for me.
I read this is one sitting, because I kept thinking maybe the action is coming soon...but it just never happened. I expected so much more between an MMA fighter and a headstrong woman that had years of love behind them and 6 months of turmoil between them. I felt like the few action scenes relating to breaking and entering and stalking were inserted to make it more interesting, they just felt out of place. I mean seriously, you've got a crazy girl showing up at random hours, someone in your apartment that a girl only just moved into, and now a guy making gun hands at you? Is this not alarming? I felt like Tank thought of himself as so strong and able to handle it that the alarm bells didn't go off for anyone else, which could have made for a super entertaining fight scene with a lot of people involved...but whatever. He just didn't feel like an MMA fighter to me, just a big strong guy with a bar. Then there's Pepper, who I so wanted to love, but she was so flippy floppy. There were so many opportunities for her to prove her changes, to fight for Tank, but she just kept letting things happen. Sure, it worked out in the end, but only due to outside influences. Girl, if you want your man you go and take him, don't make fricken scones! I also feel like the 6 months were never really addressed, just forgiven after the chemistry was proven to be alive. I really struggle with romances like this, because it never addresses the trust or the individual characters. I really expected so much more.
I liked where this book was headed and the general plot line, just could have had more in the way of character development, relationship building, and action.
The offer of second chance romance sucked me in again with the story of Pepper and Tank, old lovers with 6 months of distance between them after Pepper ran off without a word. I love the idea that these two had so many years behind them and were willing to give each other a chance to right the wrongs. While the characters had this intense chemistry between them, there was a lack of dialogue and the inner monologue skipped around a lot, so I never felt connected to either character. The book does a great job of showing how love can win and I enjoyed reading the character's face their own personal fears to allow room for the other. However, I just never fell in love with Tank and Pepper as a couple, the story just didn't flow for me.
I read this is one sitting, because I kept thinking maybe the action is coming soon...but it just never happened. I expected so much more between an MMA fighter and a headstrong woman that had years of love behind them and 6 months of turmoil between them. I felt like the few action scenes relating to breaking and entering and stalking were inserted to make it more interesting, they just felt out of place. I mean seriously, you've got a crazy girl showing up at random hours, someone in your apartment that a girl only just moved into, and now a guy making gun hands at you? Is this not alarming? I felt like Tank thought of himself as so strong and able to handle it that the alarm bells didn't go off for anyone else, which could have made for a super entertaining fight scene with a lot of people involved...but whatever. He just didn't feel like an MMA fighter to me, just a big strong guy with a bar. Then there's Pepper, who I so wanted to love, but she was so flippy floppy. There were so many opportunities for her to prove her changes, to fight for Tank, but she just kept letting things happen. Sure, it worked out in the end, but only due to outside influences. Girl, if you want your man you go and take him, don't make fricken scones! I also feel like the 6 months were never really addressed, just forgiven after the chemistry was proven to be alive. I really struggle with romances like this, because it never addresses the trust or the individual characters. I really expected so much more.
I liked where this book was headed and the general plot line, just could have had more in the way of character development, relationship building, and action.
February 12, 2016
This story was so boring. There was hardly any dialogue. It has alternating POV's from Pepper and Tank but we just get pages and pages of their internal thoughts.
There is hardly any plot. The small mystery plot in the story was ridiculous and over in a page or so using 'tell' not 'show'. This was like a debut self published attempt. It was dire.
ARC provided by Netgalley.
There is hardly any plot. The small mystery plot in the story was ridiculous and over in a page or so using 'tell' not 'show'. This was like a debut self published attempt. It was dire.
ARC provided by Netgalley.
March 30, 2016
" After the Hurt" Was a hard read for me only garnering three stars. I had higher hopes since I enjoy second chance romances which this was, but what hurt the story for me was the excessive inner dialogue with both main characters, Pepper Chapman and Tank Sherman the storyline could of used more communication and time between the two. I will give the author five stars for steam factor she write some steamy scenes most though only memories of the characters or daydream sequences.
The story is told in a dual point of view which I do like.
Tank Sherman and Pepper Chapman have been together since high school and all through Tank's career as a Mma fighter, planning and looking forward to a lifetime together when their world fell apart Tank's sister in a life threatening car accident and them right behind that Lepper's mother being diagnosed with cancer and then suddenly dying. The loss of Pepper's mother stars her over the edge and she picks up and leaves not telling tank were she is going or when she will be back, breaking his heart.
Pepper shows back up in his life six month laters a different women to find a different colder Tank determined towin him back; she throws herself into working at the restaurant they started together that he has spent the past six months pulling l, the finishing touches together on hoping to show hi she is committed to him and their business.
Some drama ensues with an interim girlfreind, crazy the best description for her and then a break in and feelings of some one watching them which turns out to provide a little excitement which is over all to soon.
In the end , we do get an HEA but it takes a while to get there.
Arc copy provided via Netgalley for an honest review.
The story is told in a dual point of view which I do like.
Tank Sherman and Pepper Chapman have been together since high school and all through Tank's career as a Mma fighter, planning and looking forward to a lifetime together when their world fell apart Tank's sister in a life threatening car accident and them right behind that Lepper's mother being diagnosed with cancer and then suddenly dying. The loss of Pepper's mother stars her over the edge and she picks up and leaves not telling tank were she is going or when she will be back, breaking his heart.
Pepper shows back up in his life six month laters a different women to find a different colder Tank determined towin him back; she throws herself into working at the restaurant they started together that he has spent the past six months pulling l, the finishing touches together on hoping to show hi she is committed to him and their business.
Some drama ensues with an interim girlfreind, crazy the best description for her and then a break in and feelings of some one watching them which turns out to provide a little excitement which is over all to soon.
In the end , we do get an HEA but it takes a while to get there.
Arc copy provided via Netgalley for an honest review.
March 14, 2016
3 just not that great for me stars. I like messed up stories that ultimately lead to happy endings. It works for me because it's more realistic than getting together and everything being sunshine and rainbows. I expected this book to get me emotional, which it didn't. I also expected to really get involved in the story, which I didn't. It was just an okay read for me and that's why it just gets 3 stars.
March 31, 2016
After the hurt by Shana Gray was an addicting read I couldn’t put down. Every page is more wonderful than the other. This is my first book by Shana Gray , and I enjoyed it. I liked the main couple as well as the side characters. She has written an amazing read full of twists, emotions, and steam. This story was told in first and third person points of view of Tank and Pepper. Pepper Chapman refuses to throw in the towel. Six months ago, she made the biggest mistake of her life. Blinded by grief after her mom’s death, Pepper abandoned the man she loves. Now she wants a second chance at everything she gave up: strong hands driving her to ecstasy a deep voice whispering naughty promises in her ear the future they’d planned since they were teenagers. So Pepper comes home looking for forgiveness, ready for a new beginning if he’s willing to give her a shot. Retired MMA star Tank Sherman may be used to low blows, but Pepper’s emotional sucker punch left him reeling. Trying to ignore the pain and forget the pleasure of her body beneath his, Tank is prepared to ring the final bell on their relationship. Then Pepper shows up out of the blue, radiating pure sex. But Tank won’t let himself get hurt again, and that means resisting the heat that still burns between them. Because if he takes Pepper back, he knows he’ll never be able to let her go again. I loved watching Tank and Pepper fight to get over their pasts so they could have a bright future. Their chemistry was off the charts, hot, steamy and so adorable. The more time these two spend together, the more they realize that it could grow into more, but with both of their futures a bit unknown, they have to be willing to take the leap into a future with each other. There are plenty of emotion in this book and at times I got frustrated.I would defiantly recommend this book to all my friends who read the same types of books I do.
March 20, 2016
Original review can be found at http://kristineandterri.blogspot.ca/2...
2.5 stars
** I received an advanced readers copy from Random House- Loveswept via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!**
This book was just OK for me. I struggled through parts of it and found myself skimming the pages on more than one occassion.
Pepper came back in the hopes of rekindling her relationship with Tank after leaving without a word six months earlier. Her mother passed away and she blamed herself and fled in order to try and heal. This was my first issue. It was just too unbelievable. Pepper and Tank were in a a serious relationship since high school, lived together and owned a business yet she couldn't turn to Tank for comfort?? Taking off made more sense?? It was just a little flimsy as far as a believable plot.
The story was told from both Pepper and Tank's point of view. Normally this is something that I love but I didn't in this book. It was extremely repetitive. Pepper would see Tank and then think about what she would like to do to him or have him do to her. Next it would go to Tank's point of view where we would get to read about what he wished he was doing to Pepper or what he wished she was doing to him. This happened over and over again. Instead of building anticipation it got old really fast and the page skimming commenced. There was just way too much tell and too little show. Most of the book happened in their heads.
The other thing that I didn't quite understand was the "mystery" part of it. What was that? It seemed at first like it would play a pivitol part in the plot but then it just kind of flopped. It was less than exciting and ended before it really even began.
This book just wasn't for me but I will admit that Gray does know how to turn up the heat. I just wish it wasn't mostly in their heads.
2.5 stars
** I received an advanced readers copy from Random House- Loveswept via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!**
This book was just OK for me. I struggled through parts of it and found myself skimming the pages on more than one occassion.
Pepper came back in the hopes of rekindling her relationship with Tank after leaving without a word six months earlier. Her mother passed away and she blamed herself and fled in order to try and heal. This was my first issue. It was just too unbelievable. Pepper and Tank were in a a serious relationship since high school, lived together and owned a business yet she couldn't turn to Tank for comfort?? Taking off made more sense?? It was just a little flimsy as far as a believable plot.
The story was told from both Pepper and Tank's point of view. Normally this is something that I love but I didn't in this book. It was extremely repetitive. Pepper would see Tank and then think about what she would like to do to him or have him do to her. Next it would go to Tank's point of view where we would get to read about what he wished he was doing to Pepper or what he wished she was doing to him. This happened over and over again. Instead of building anticipation it got old really fast and the page skimming commenced. There was just way too much tell and too little show. Most of the book happened in their heads.
The other thing that I didn't quite understand was the "mystery" part of it. What was that? It seemed at first like it would play a pivitol part in the plot but then it just kind of flopped. It was less than exciting and ended before it really even began.
This book just wasn't for me but I will admit that Gray does know how to turn up the heat. I just wish it wasn't mostly in their heads.
May 19, 2016
So, what happens when run away from the love of your life and then suddenly reappear? Don't know? Well, don't worry because its a head scratcher for me to.
I love a book that have both lead characters on equal footing. Pepper the reformed spitfire abruptly returns to the wintry cold of Canada from the soothing tropics of Bali with the hopes of winning back her true love Francis (aka Tank). After six months of no communication Tank may not be so open to Pepper.
The lead characters were well thought out for After the Hurt , Pepper an attractive red head and Tank the huge and sexy retired MMA fighter. Both characters drove me a bit bonky with their constant uncertainty about one another. Also, interaction with secondary characters was very limited so there wasn't anything really to break-up the merry-go-round that Pepper and Tank were on. Overall, 3.25 rating for finally getting to the HEA.
I love a book that have both lead characters on equal footing. Pepper the reformed spitfire abruptly returns to the wintry cold of Canada from the soothing tropics of Bali with the hopes of winning back her true love Francis (aka Tank). After six months of no communication Tank may not be so open to Pepper.
The lead characters were well thought out for After the Hurt , Pepper an attractive red head and Tank the huge and sexy retired MMA fighter. Both characters drove me a bit bonky with their constant uncertainty about one another. Also, interaction with secondary characters was very limited so there wasn't anything really to break-up the merry-go-round that Pepper and Tank were on. Overall, 3.25 rating for finally getting to the HEA.
March 29, 2016
ARC provided by publisher in exchange for an honest review and honestly... I don't know what I expected, but definitely not this. I found the story-line was lacking and didn't flow smoothly. There were too many pages of inner thoughts that were quite repetitive and you lost interest. This book was not for me.
I received an ARC of this book for an honest review.
I received an ARC of this book for an honest review.
April 5, 2016
After the Hurt shows how a single event can throw lives into a tail spin making people question who they are and their purpose in life. When the event is tragic the weight of grief, regret and guilt (whether deserved or not) can cloud a persons judgement to the point they feel as if they have nothing to offer anyone else and leaving is the best for everyone, unable to consider for a second the hurt their departure may cause.
Following the death of her mother, this is exactly what happens to Pepper, suffocating under the weight of her grief, she re-evaluates who she is as a person, finding herself to be little more than a burden to those around her she leaves her life and love n order to gain some much-needed perspective. Unfortunately, she is unable to explain her feelings and leaves without decision causing the devastation of Tank's heart. Six months without contact, Pepper is a changed woman, having gained self-awareness she returns to her home in he hope of reconciling with Tank. Although her actions were thoughtless and aused a great deal of hurt to both herself and Tank, it was unintentional, Pepper was blinded to everything outside her own pain. It is only through her gaining self-awareness that she realises the thing she wants most in life is Tank.
Taking responsibility for her actions, Pepper's unexpected return creates conflicting emotions in Tank, from bitterness at her leaving to relief at her return. Tank does not do well at processing his emotions creating additional damage to already fragile feelings. The chemistry between Pepper and Tank has never diminished and neither has their connection as much as they try to deny it. With the intensity of their relationship, I felt as if there was no obstacle they could overcome because they were each a half of a whole they could only be together.
The thriller elements within the narrative did add to the tension but I felt as if they were a little superfluous to the overall story, although it did provide a clever device with which to control elements of the plot and the decisions the characters made based on the events taking place.
I am hoping we get to see a story for Tank's sister, Megan, in the future as she deserves her own happily ever after ♥
Following the death of her mother, this is exactly what happens to Pepper, suffocating under the weight of her grief, she re-evaluates who she is as a person, finding herself to be little more than a burden to those around her she leaves her life and love n order to gain some much-needed perspective. Unfortunately, she is unable to explain her feelings and leaves without decision causing the devastation of Tank's heart. Six months without contact, Pepper is a changed woman, having gained self-awareness she returns to her home in he hope of reconciling with Tank. Although her actions were thoughtless and aused a great deal of hurt to both herself and Tank, it was unintentional, Pepper was blinded to everything outside her own pain. It is only through her gaining self-awareness that she realises the thing she wants most in life is Tank.
Taking responsibility for her actions, Pepper's unexpected return creates conflicting emotions in Tank, from bitterness at her leaving to relief at her return. Tank does not do well at processing his emotions creating additional damage to already fragile feelings. The chemistry between Pepper and Tank has never diminished and neither has their connection as much as they try to deny it. With the intensity of their relationship, I felt as if there was no obstacle they could overcome because they were each a half of a whole they could only be together.
The thriller elements within the narrative did add to the tension but I felt as if they were a little superfluous to the overall story, although it did provide a clever device with which to control elements of the plot and the decisions the characters made based on the events taking place.
I am hoping we get to see a story for Tank's sister, Megan, in the future as she deserves her own happily ever after ♥
March 18, 2016
2.5 Stars, 2.5 Flames
Pepper thought that returning home after 6 months would be hard but she did not expect the cold shoulder from her first and only love, Tank. Heart-broken and admittedly a bit mean, retired MMA fighter Tank gets a wake-up call when his long lost love returns on a busy night at the bar they co-own.
The premise and synopsis of the book is what drew me in. Well, the cover was not too shabby either. Sadly, this book fell short for me. Tank and Pepper could have been great characters but they were contradictory. When Pepper enters the in the first chapter you connect with her because she is quiet, anxious, and vulnerable about Tank’s reception of her. Then when we get to Tank’s POV, she is totally different. She is in-your-face party girl. Even after she proves she changed he still perceives her as such and she acts that way which does not help her case.
Then there is the lack of dialog or explanations between the characters. There is so much inner dialog I found myself skimming pages to get to the good parts. Which did not happen until the very end. I thought I would love Tank because of his fighting spirit and loyal heart. However, he was such a coward. Never wanted to confront Pepper or explain what he needed or wanted. Add in random events that leaves readers with so much unsolved questions that it brings no satisfaction when you get the end. Plus, it is not part of any series nor does it look like one will be in the near future. The sensual tension and chemistry was great but it seems that was all these characters cared about. There is not much on why and how well they connected in the past to make you believe they last in the future.
Overall, it was a decent read but not something I would be picking up again. Great chemistry aside, there is no growth between the characters and the unsolved problems left me empty.
I was gifted this book by the JeepDiva in exchange for an honest review. The opinions and ratings are my own and I was in no way compensated.
Pepper thought that returning home after 6 months would be hard but she did not expect the cold shoulder from her first and only love, Tank. Heart-broken and admittedly a bit mean, retired MMA fighter Tank gets a wake-up call when his long lost love returns on a busy night at the bar they co-own.
The premise and synopsis of the book is what drew me in. Well, the cover was not too shabby either. Sadly, this book fell short for me. Tank and Pepper could have been great characters but they were contradictory. When Pepper enters the in the first chapter you connect with her because she is quiet, anxious, and vulnerable about Tank’s reception of her. Then when we get to Tank’s POV, she is totally different. She is in-your-face party girl. Even after she proves she changed he still perceives her as such and she acts that way which does not help her case.
Then there is the lack of dialog or explanations between the characters. There is so much inner dialog I found myself skimming pages to get to the good parts. Which did not happen until the very end. I thought I would love Tank because of his fighting spirit and loyal heart. However, he was such a coward. Never wanted to confront Pepper or explain what he needed or wanted. Add in random events that leaves readers with so much unsolved questions that it brings no satisfaction when you get the end. Plus, it is not part of any series nor does it look like one will be in the near future. The sensual tension and chemistry was great but it seems that was all these characters cared about. There is not much on why and how well they connected in the past to make you believe they last in the future.
Overall, it was a decent read but not something I would be picking up again. Great chemistry aside, there is no growth between the characters and the unsolved problems left me empty.
I was gifted this book by the JeepDiva in exchange for an honest review. The opinions and ratings are my own and I was in no way compensated.
March 31, 2016
I received an ARC of this title in exchange for an honest review and here it is--2 stars.
I've always been a fan of second-chance romances, which is why I requested an ARC of this novel, but it certainly failed to meet my expectations and here are some of the reasons why:
1. As a grammar nerd, the writing was a hot mess of mixed metaphors, incorrectly conjugated verbs, sentences starting and ending with conjunctions and prepositions, dangling participles, split infinitives, and that's just for starters.
2. By the time I was halfway through this novel, there were, at most, 20 lines of person-to-person dialogue, and even at that, it was seldom longer than a single sentence. Reading nothing but internal dialogue becomes incredibly annoying as well as boring because it doesn't advance the story one iota.
3. The characters. Pepper was so enamored of Tank, she was speechless, even after leaving him without a word or so much as a note for 6 months. I've lost more than few dear friends and family members over the years, but if you love someone and need to get away for a while, leaving a note is hardly an impossibility. Tank, he's a retired MMA fighter who professes to have loved Pepper, yet when she suddenly reappears after having been missing without a word for 6 months, does he even ask her where she's been when he finds her sitting at the bar--of course not.
4. Action. There isn't any. While we read that these two people love each other, there's no evidence of it, and although their endless inner dialogue says they're hot for each other, there's no sex, and no steam outside of that.
This is the first time I've read this author, and I can only encourage her to continue writing, spend some time learning the basic rules of grammar, learn about how to plot a novel and develop your characters so that they have some depth.
I've always been a fan of second-chance romances, which is why I requested an ARC of this novel, but it certainly failed to meet my expectations and here are some of the reasons why:
1. As a grammar nerd, the writing was a hot mess of mixed metaphors, incorrectly conjugated verbs, sentences starting and ending with conjunctions and prepositions, dangling participles, split infinitives, and that's just for starters.
2. By the time I was halfway through this novel, there were, at most, 20 lines of person-to-person dialogue, and even at that, it was seldom longer than a single sentence. Reading nothing but internal dialogue becomes incredibly annoying as well as boring because it doesn't advance the story one iota.
3. The characters. Pepper was so enamored of Tank, she was speechless, even after leaving him without a word or so much as a note for 6 months. I've lost more than few dear friends and family members over the years, but if you love someone and need to get away for a while, leaving a note is hardly an impossibility. Tank, he's a retired MMA fighter who professes to have loved Pepper, yet when she suddenly reappears after having been missing without a word for 6 months, does he even ask her where she's been when he finds her sitting at the bar--of course not.
4. Action. There isn't any. While we read that these two people love each other, there's no evidence of it, and although their endless inner dialogue says they're hot for each other, there's no sex, and no steam outside of that.
This is the first time I've read this author, and I can only encourage her to continue writing, spend some time learning the basic rules of grammar, learn about how to plot a novel and develop your characters so that they have some depth.
July 10, 2016
Tank and Pepper were in a serious committed relationship since high school up until she abruptly left him six months ago, now she's back and she wants what they once had again. This story had great potential but for me just didn't live up to it. Shana Gray is a new to me author so I am not sure if this is how she normally writes or not but the constant inner dialogue just didn't do it for me. I would have love to have more dialogue between the characters, even crazy Olivia, but that didn't happen until after the first half of the book. While I didn't connect with Pepper or Tank there was something that made them appealing to me which in turn had me continue reading the book until the very end, which I am glad I did because the last 1/3 of the book is where everything started to happen.
I will read other books by Shana Gray because like I said this story had great potential and I am hoping to find one her books that I will connect with.
***I have received this book from Random House Publishing Group - Loveswept through netgalley in exchange for my honest review*** https://www.netgalley.com/
I will read other books by Shana Gray because like I said this story had great potential and I am hoping to find one her books that I will connect with.
***I have received this book from Random House Publishing Group - Loveswept through netgalley in exchange for my honest review*** https://www.netgalley.com/
December 13, 2016
This was a pretty boring read. I’m usually a pretty big fan of second-chance romances especially when they’re written in dual POV but there was hardly any dialogue, it’s all just their thoughts. I found myself skimming most of it.
Pepper left 6 months prior after the death of her mother. She’s returned 6 months later in the hopes of rekindling her relationship with high school sweetheart, Tank. Tank is mad that Pepper up and left after her mother’s death instead of staying and seeking comfort in him. Pepper is pretty vocal about wanting Tank back but Tank is worried she’ll leave again. In the meantime, they own a bar/restaurant together that Tank has really gotten up and running while Pepper was gone.
The bulk of this book was the inner dialogue of both Pepper and Tank dreaming of the other. It built anticipation the first couple of times but then became extremely repetitive and hence, the skimming. I found the plot line really lacking, it had an air of mystery from Tank’s “ex” showing up and someone “stalking” Pepper but it just dies down all of a sudden. Another thing that really gets me is the lack of supporting characters in this book, it’s really just Pepper and Tank. There is talk of a party that is for their “bestfriends” at the beginning but we literally never hear another peep about them, I found it quite odd. The only thing I really liked about this book was the chemistry between Pepper and Tank, it was hot and I hope the author does a better job with plotlines in future works.
* I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.*
Pepper left 6 months prior after the death of her mother. She’s returned 6 months later in the hopes of rekindling her relationship with high school sweetheart, Tank. Tank is mad that Pepper up and left after her mother’s death instead of staying and seeking comfort in him. Pepper is pretty vocal about wanting Tank back but Tank is worried she’ll leave again. In the meantime, they own a bar/restaurant together that Tank has really gotten up and running while Pepper was gone.
The bulk of this book was the inner dialogue of both Pepper and Tank dreaming of the other. It built anticipation the first couple of times but then became extremely repetitive and hence, the skimming. I found the plot line really lacking, it had an air of mystery from Tank’s “ex” showing up and someone “stalking” Pepper but it just dies down all of a sudden. Another thing that really gets me is the lack of supporting characters in this book, it’s really just Pepper and Tank. There is talk of a party that is for their “bestfriends” at the beginning but we literally never hear another peep about them, I found it quite odd. The only thing I really liked about this book was the chemistry between Pepper and Tank, it was hot and I hope the author does a better job with plotlines in future works.
* I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.*
February 29, 2016
So, I need to take responsibility for this one. Yup, you read that right, I’m taking responsibility for not enjoying this book. You see, I love stories where characters were married and get back together, I love stories where characters end relationships and find their way back to each other, but it clearly states in the blurb for this book that the characters are still married. So this is entirely on me. It’s just not my cup of tea. I’m a girl who likes to fantasise about the happily ever after, rather than reading about how it’s all fallen apart after the fact. So this book just wasn’t for me. It wasn’t to my tastes and it just wasn’t what I like to read. So, I am apologizing to the author and to the publisher for not paying more attention when I picked it up to read.
Having said all of that, it’s an ok read if you’re into that kind of thing. The writing style and the characters though made it hard for me to get into, I wanted to rant and scream and throw shit at them for being so freaking obstinate, naive and just down right stupid at times, but again, I went into this book with prejudice against it over the actual storyline.
March 21, 2016
ARC provided by publisher via NetGalley.
This book pissed me off! Seriously what woman leaves the love of her life and expects him to wait for her. You have no form of communication with the man for 6 months while you “find” yourself and yet you come back thinking you can fall into his lap.
And do even get me started on Tank! Seriously dude hand over your man card. You have lost it. She left you. She could have been dead in a ditch and you would have no clue. GRRRR!!!!
Ok aside from the choices that the characters made that I didn’t agree with, this book was pretty decent. I liked the characters and how they were perceived. I think the author had a great idea with this book, and the only reason I’m not giving it more stars is because I don’t agree with how the characters handled the situation (get to steppin Pepper, Tank should have been lost to you for good you selfish witch).
Will I read more from this author? Yeah because the chemistry between the characters is so hot, and the naughty thoughts that went through each other’s heads made this book for me. The little bit of suspense also made this book. I love it when danger is present and the man goes all caveman to protect his woman. Tank is a total badass in this department (swoons).
This book pissed me off! Seriously what woman leaves the love of her life and expects him to wait for her. You have no form of communication with the man for 6 months while you “find” yourself and yet you come back thinking you can fall into his lap.
And do even get me started on Tank! Seriously dude hand over your man card. You have lost it. She left you. She could have been dead in a ditch and you would have no clue. GRRRR!!!!
Ok aside from the choices that the characters made that I didn’t agree with, this book was pretty decent. I liked the characters and how they were perceived. I think the author had a great idea with this book, and the only reason I’m not giving it more stars is because I don’t agree with how the characters handled the situation (get to steppin Pepper, Tank should have been lost to you for good you selfish witch).
Will I read more from this author? Yeah because the chemistry between the characters is so hot, and the naughty thoughts that went through each other’s heads made this book for me. The little bit of suspense also made this book. I love it when danger is present and the man goes all caveman to protect his woman. Tank is a total badass in this department (swoons).
March 4, 2016
A moving romance with a bit of a slow start. Pepper and Tank had a beautiful love, then a tragic loss changed everything. Pepper had to get away. Find herself. Learn to heal. She left a heartbroken Tank, not fully understanding that (especially considering her radio silence) he wouldn't just be waiting on her to return. Six months later, she's back and things are much harder than she expected.
I think I was most moved by Tank and the way he loves. It was really beautiful to hear how much he cares (for his sister too) and how difficult the reuniting was for him. We often read about women's hearts being broken and having to learn not to run away from love. It was great to see this in a contemporary hero. Pepper didn't handle leaving well, but it's clear that she loves Tank and their chemistry is undeniable. This is a HEA you don't want to miss. Nice job Mrs. Gray!
On another note: there are two crazy people in this read, and for my part, they weren't needed. The story would've been just as enjoyable with out those few drama/suspense moments.
I received an ARC of this book, via Net Galley, in exchange for a fair and honest review.
I think I was most moved by Tank and the way he loves. It was really beautiful to hear how much he cares (for his sister too) and how difficult the reuniting was for him. We often read about women's hearts being broken and having to learn not to run away from love. It was great to see this in a contemporary hero. Pepper didn't handle leaving well, but it's clear that she loves Tank and their chemistry is undeniable. This is a HEA you don't want to miss. Nice job Mrs. Gray!
On another note: there are two crazy people in this read, and for my part, they weren't needed. The story would've been just as enjoyable with out those few drama/suspense moments.
I received an ARC of this book, via Net Galley, in exchange for a fair and honest review.
May 10, 2016
Blinded by the grief of losing her mother Pepper Chapman walks away from the man that she loves and the business that they built together. After 6 months of trying to find herself the only thing that Pepper finds out is that she left her heart behind in Tank Sherman hands!
Tank has known his own pain and suffering and expected after all the years that Pepper and him had together they would find sanctuary in each others arms. Unfortunately for him he finds out the hard way that Pepper didn't feel the same way.
What's a guy to do when after 6 months of waiting for a call from the love of his life never comes? What's a woman to do when she returns home to find that her lover and best friend may have moved on? Read and find out!
I received this book as an ARC for my honest review
Shana Gray did a great job with this book. Honestly the only reason she did not get 5 stars is because for a tiny second at the end she lost me with the big surprises but then she sucked me right back in and had me smiling and shedding a couple of tears.
Great job Shana Gray this book was sexy, funny and filled with suspense and romance.
Tank has known his own pain and suffering and expected after all the years that Pepper and him had together they would find sanctuary in each others arms. Unfortunately for him he finds out the hard way that Pepper didn't feel the same way.
What's a guy to do when after 6 months of waiting for a call from the love of his life never comes? What's a woman to do when she returns home to find that her lover and best friend may have moved on? Read and find out!
I received this book as an ARC for my honest review
Shana Gray did a great job with this book. Honestly the only reason she did not get 5 stars is because for a tiny second at the end she lost me with the big surprises but then she sucked me right back in and had me smiling and shedding a couple of tears.
Great job Shana Gray this book was sexy, funny and filled with suspense and romance.
April 2, 2016
I love a good MMA book. While the main character is a retired MMA fighter, the fact that he is a MMA fighter is not the main point of the book. This is a love story. The story of a man and woman who have been together since high school and then things happen and she runs away so when she returns she has to prove herself again to earn his trust again.
The story was good; I read it in one night. Yet, I wasn’t invested in Pepper and Tank. Of course, I wanted them to be happy. I needed them to be okay again. But something held me back. Their love was too easy. I get that it was true love, deep soul love. Yet, it just wasn’t something Pepper fought enough for.
This book had great potential, the story was there. It just didn’t happen for me. What does that mean? It means that others are going to find this book 5 stars, every book has a reader. I am glad that I was given the opportunity to read After the Hurt by Shana Gray. I recommend checking it out.
The story was good; I read it in one night. Yet, I wasn’t invested in Pepper and Tank. Of course, I wanted them to be happy. I needed them to be okay again. But something held me back. Their love was too easy. I get that it was true love, deep soul love. Yet, it just wasn’t something Pepper fought enough for.
This book had great potential, the story was there. It just didn’t happen for me. What does that mean? It means that others are going to find this book 5 stars, every book has a reader. I am glad that I was given the opportunity to read After the Hurt by Shana Gray. I recommend checking it out.
May 19, 2016
My Rating:
3.5
Favorite Quotes:
“He'd had a long time to feed on his anger, and the cold block of ice that used to be his heart would take a solar flare to melt."
"The air seemed to light up and crackle as if cut by lightning, burning the oxygen out of the room."
My Review:
Constant angst is not my cup of tea and sadly, this story was 75% angst... but then I reaped a bit of a reward as the remaining 25% consisted of atomically hot and steamy love scenes that were somewhat interspersed. This couple was an indecisive and frustrating hot mess. The back and forth and up and down of their individual inner musings and contemplations of the possibility of reviving their decimated relationship became rather repetitive and tedious for me, but I know others find that entertaining. There was also an enjoyable subplot of intrigue and brief respites in the tension when they recalled their happier times, and thankfully the HEA ending was satisfactory and upbeat.
3.5
Favorite Quotes:
“He'd had a long time to feed on his anger, and the cold block of ice that used to be his heart would take a solar flare to melt."
"The air seemed to light up and crackle as if cut by lightning, burning the oxygen out of the room."
My Review:
Constant angst is not my cup of tea and sadly, this story was 75% angst... but then I reaped a bit of a reward as the remaining 25% consisted of atomically hot and steamy love scenes that were somewhat interspersed. This couple was an indecisive and frustrating hot mess. The back and forth and up and down of their individual inner musings and contemplations of the possibility of reviving their decimated relationship became rather repetitive and tedious for me, but I know others find that entertaining. There was also an enjoyable subplot of intrigue and brief respites in the tension when they recalled their happier times, and thankfully the HEA ending was satisfactory and upbeat.
March 25, 2016
**I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.**
I love a second chance romance book. The emotions, the back story, fight to make it work. Unfortunately this book had none of those things for me. I never felt an emotional pull between Tank or Pepper. There wasn't really any dialogue it was more a dual POV of inter monologues. I skimmed a lot through this one.
Pepper comes back to try and make it work with Tank after a six month vacation to Bali. Her excuse for ending the relationship was her mother dying. Tank was devastated when she left. He's not going to let her back into his life without a fight.
This book was definitely not for me.
I love a second chance romance book. The emotions, the back story, fight to make it work. Unfortunately this book had none of those things for me. I never felt an emotional pull between Tank or Pepper. There wasn't really any dialogue it was more a dual POV of inter monologues. I skimmed a lot through this one.
Pepper comes back to try and make it work with Tank after a six month vacation to Bali. Her excuse for ending the relationship was her mother dying. Tank was devastated when she left. He's not going to let her back into his life without a fight.
This book was definitely not for me.
March 30, 2016
4 star
I was pulled right into this story. The story has laughs, passion, healing, second chances, and heartbreak.
This is Pepper and Tank’s story. Pepper made choices she wished she didn’t make. She knows what she wants now and will fight to get it. She wants a second chance but does Tank? She left him without a word will he take her back? This story is about forgiveness and healing. This is Tank and Pepper’s journey back to each other. Can these two get the second chance they both want? These two have been through a lot together but is Pepper leaving just too much for them to handle?
I felt I was able to connect with the characters and the story was a great read.
I recommend this book.
I was pulled right into this story. The story has laughs, passion, healing, second chances, and heartbreak.
This is Pepper and Tank’s story. Pepper made choices she wished she didn’t make. She knows what she wants now and will fight to get it. She wants a second chance but does Tank? She left him without a word will he take her back? This story is about forgiveness and healing. This is Tank and Pepper’s journey back to each other. Can these two get the second chance they both want? These two have been through a lot together but is Pepper leaving just too much for them to handle?
I felt I was able to connect with the characters and the story was a great read.
I recommend this book.
August 14, 2017
This was a good story about Pepper and Tank. Pepper left Tank when she suffered a loss that she couldn't deal with. Now she is finally back, but Tank isn't waiting for her with open arms. He was very hurt at her abandonment, and it will take much for him to be willing to open his heart back up to her.
Good characters and a story that had a poignancy due to the hurt both have suffered. I enjoyed this second chance at romance novel.
Good characters and a story that had a poignancy due to the hurt both have suffered. I enjoyed this second chance at romance novel.
March 30, 2016
DO you like reading about true loves, forgiveness, chemistry that is off the charts ? then this is the book for you. high school sweethearts living their dream of opening a restaurant together ,then the sudden death of Peppers mother leaves her running from the comfort of the man who loves her like no other breaking his heart, returning home hoping for a second chance and Tanks forgiveness for leaving him months ago. does he give it to her or does he leave her broken hearted? guess you just have to read it for yourself to find out.. would highly recommend that you read and share!!
March 30, 2016
Include introspective characters, detailed descriptions of Octagon, which seems like an original, cool place to hang out, mixed with a little stalker mystery, and you have the makings of a great story. The character development is spot on, and the plot is engaging and interesting.
A little much on the internal dialogue and not enough actual conversation and action for me, but good nonetheless.
Overall, Gray gave a predictable "scorned, sexy build up, back together and happily ever after", which is fine for a light read.
(I received an arc for an honest review)
A little much on the internal dialogue and not enough actual conversation and action for me, but good nonetheless.
Overall, Gray gave a predictable "scorned, sexy build up, back together and happily ever after", which is fine for a light read.
(I received an arc for an honest review)
March 25, 2016
This is a reunion story. Pepper has known Tank a very long time and they belong together. Circumstances in their lives were too much for Pepper and she disappeared without a word to anyone. Her experiences have changed her basic concepts of life and living. Wanting to mend fences and return to her soul mate, she comes home. Tank is still very hurt and is not sure he wants her back. Their struggle to find each other again is full of ups and downs, and whys. I enjoyed this tale.
March 24, 2016
I wanted to like this one. I tried, really! I just couldn't connect with these characters. I really wanted to smack both of them. Pepper just disappears for six months and then just as suddenly reappears and expects things to work out? Um....just no! And Tank. Big bad ex MMA star allowing someone to treat him like this? Just didn't work for me.
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