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Against the Wall: A Novel
The RITA-nominated author of The Edge of Night returns with another seductive novel, hailed by M. O’Keefe as “a dirty, gritty gem of a book.” As teens, Eric and Meghan fell for each other despite the odds—but now that they’re all grown up, they’re reunited by dangerous secrets.
Eric Hernandez is the bad boy of every schoolgirl’s fantasies—and every mother’s nightmares. But after serving time for manslaughter, he’s ready to turn his life around. He just needs a chance to prove himself as a professional tattoo artist. The one thing that keeps him going is the memory of the innocent beauty he loved and left behind.
Meghan Young’s world isn’t as perfect as it looks. The preacher’s daughter is living a lie, especially now that Eric is back. Tougher, harder, and sexier than ever, he might be the only person she can trust. But there’s no telling what he’ll do to protect her if he learns the truth, and that’s a risk Meghan won’t let him take. And yet, back in the arms of the troubled boy with the artist’s soul, Meghan can’t help surrendering to the man he’s become.
Praise for Against the Wall
“Against the Wall is a sexy, unique love story that I devoured in one day. Jill Sorenson’s voice is so fresh, her characters shine bright. This book is a must-read for New Adult lovers.”—New York Times bestselling author Monica Murphy
“A dirty, gritty gem of a book, with a hard edge of realism and bright, hopeful heart!”—M. O’Keefe, author of Everything I Left Unsaid
“Tackling serious elements such as domestic abuse and gang violence, the author never lets the compelling plot take a backseat to the sexy love story between her two imperfect yet likable characters.”—Library Journal
“This intense contemporary story has solid character and emotional development.”—Publishers Weekly
“The story is tough and gritty but well done and worth reading.”—Book Binge
Praise for Jill Sorenson
“Jill Sorenson’s sleek sensuality and fresh new voice are sure to score big with readers.”—New York Times bestselling author Cindy Gerard
“With Jill Sorenson, you are guaranteed a dangerously addictive, gut-wrenchingly fast-paced read.”—New York Times bestselling author Stephanie Tyler
Includes a special message from the editor, as well as an excerpt from another Loveswept title.
Eric Hernandez is the bad boy of every schoolgirl’s fantasies—and every mother’s nightmares. But after serving time for manslaughter, he’s ready to turn his life around. He just needs a chance to prove himself as a professional tattoo artist. The one thing that keeps him going is the memory of the innocent beauty he loved and left behind.
Meghan Young’s world isn’t as perfect as it looks. The preacher’s daughter is living a lie, especially now that Eric is back. Tougher, harder, and sexier than ever, he might be the only person she can trust. But there’s no telling what he’ll do to protect her if he learns the truth, and that’s a risk Meghan won’t let him take. And yet, back in the arms of the troubled boy with the artist’s soul, Meghan can’t help surrendering to the man he’s become.
Praise for Against the Wall
“Against the Wall is a sexy, unique love story that I devoured in one day. Jill Sorenson’s voice is so fresh, her characters shine bright. This book is a must-read for New Adult lovers.”—New York Times bestselling author Monica Murphy
“A dirty, gritty gem of a book, with a hard edge of realism and bright, hopeful heart!”—M. O’Keefe, author of Everything I Left Unsaid
“Tackling serious elements such as domestic abuse and gang violence, the author never lets the compelling plot take a backseat to the sexy love story between her two imperfect yet likable characters.”—Library Journal
“This intense contemporary story has solid character and emotional development.”—Publishers Weekly
“The story is tough and gritty but well done and worth reading.”—Book Binge
Praise for Jill Sorenson
“Jill Sorenson’s sleek sensuality and fresh new voice are sure to score big with readers.”—New York Times bestselling author Cindy Gerard
“With Jill Sorenson, you are guaranteed a dangerously addictive, gut-wrenchingly fast-paced read.”—New York Times bestselling author Stephanie Tyler
Includes a special message from the editor, as well as an excerpt from another Loveswept title.
280 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 2, 2016
49 people are currently reading
534 people want to read
About the author
Jill Sorenson
42 books458 followersJill Sorenson is the RITA-nominated author of more than a dozen novels, including the Aftershock series with HQN.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 180 reviews
February 10, 2016
A touching story about young love, heartbreak and second chances.
Eric Hernandez grew up in the rough environment of street gangs where tagging walls and selling drugs were an everyday occurrence. He knows he’s made bad choices, one in particular landed him in jail as a violent offender. But after three years in prison, he’s out and disposed to live on the straight and narrow. It’s not easy turning a new leaf, especially when your past is threatening to catch up and the only girl he’s ever loved is now a tempting and completely off-limits woman.
Meghan Young had no other choice but to move on with her life after Eric’s rejection when he was incarcerated. She continued with her college degree as a psych major, she even found a seemingly perfect athlete boyfriend. But looks can be deceiving and Eric’s return unravels Meghan’s barely there hold on her life. But even with the hardly contained attraction and emotions between her and Eric, can Meghan convince Eric to give himself and them a chance?
I’ve mentioned before that I love reading new authors and Jill Sorenson is a refreshing surprise. She was true to the difficult, tempting and distressing situations her characters faced from start to finish, not shying away from the complications of life after prison a young, toughened man who was no stranger to crime and gangs would have to face. Nor did she make Eric and Meghan’s transition from a heartbreaking young love to an adult, mature relationship smooth or easy.
Eric is not your typical anti-hero or charming, charismatic hero, a fact I loved. Even with the sexy hard edges surrounding an artist’s soul, there was something that didn’t let me fully connect with him. I wanted him to succeed though, so very much. He accepted his errors and never hid behind a victim card. It was sad to see him struggle to find a job, difficult to try to control his emotions and actions, stressful to see him try to keep out of trouble when trouble liked to visit him on a regular basis. I truly wanted him to find himself, his place and happiness.
Meghan, even though having an “easier” life compared to Eric, she still has to go through what most young adults do when transitioning from student to the real world. Add to that the fact that she was in love with a criminal while dating a less than perfect jock and you can surmise that her life wasn’t that easy. I liked that she was strong enough to get out of her abusive relationship and that she saw beyond Eric’s past, saw the good person lying underneath the exterior coarseness, and fought for what she wanted.
The chemistry between Eric and Meghan is palpable, not only to them and the supporting characters. It completely leaped off the pages.
I loved all the secondary characters who not only supported Eric and Meghan, but also enhanced this story about hope and love with the support and strength of family and friends. I did some investigating and found out that Ms. Sorenson has previously written about Eric’s sister-in-law and Meghan’s brother in a novel called The Edge of Night, which I’ve already added to my read list, and I hope we’ll soon get the story about Meghan’s best friend Kelsea.
Against the Wall is a contemporary, young adult romance by Jill Sorenson. This story is told from alternating points of view, explicit sexual content, with a happy ending.
Amazon -> http://amzn.to/1NKscfj
3.5 stars
* I was given an ARC of this book courtesy of the author via Tasty Book Tours & NetGalley. The excerpts are from that copy. *
More reviews * Stalk us on FaceBook * As well as Twitter * Pinterest Board for Book Teasers
Eric Hernandez grew up in the rough environment of street gangs where tagging walls and selling drugs were an everyday occurrence. He knows he’s made bad choices, one in particular landed him in jail as a violent offender. But after three years in prison, he’s out and disposed to live on the straight and narrow. It’s not easy turning a new leaf, especially when your past is threatening to catch up and the only girl he’s ever loved is now a tempting and completely off-limits woman.
“This is what straight life if about. Hard work and simple pleasures.”
Meghan Young had no other choice but to move on with her life after Eric’s rejection when he was incarcerated. She continued with her college degree as a psych major, she even found a seemingly perfect athlete boyfriend. But looks can be deceiving and Eric’s return unravels Meghan’s barely there hold on her life. But even with the hardly contained attraction and emotions between her and Eric, can Meghan convince Eric to give himself and them a chance?
“She’s different. She’s still kind and caring and inquisitive, but different. More mature. The Meghan I knew back then was a small-town girl rebelling against her religious upbringing. This Meghan is not so innocent, and all the more tempting.”
I’ve mentioned before that I love reading new authors and Jill Sorenson is a refreshing surprise. She was true to the difficult, tempting and distressing situations her characters faced from start to finish, not shying away from the complications of life after prison a young, toughened man who was no stranger to crime and gangs would have to face. Nor did she make Eric and Meghan’s transition from a heartbreaking young love to an adult, mature relationship smooth or easy.
Eric is not your typical anti-hero or charming, charismatic hero, a fact I loved. Even with the sexy hard edges surrounding an artist’s soul, there was something that didn’t let me fully connect with him. I wanted him to succeed though, so very much. He accepted his errors and never hid behind a victim card. It was sad to see him struggle to find a job, difficult to try to control his emotions and actions, stressful to see him try to keep out of trouble when trouble liked to visit him on a regular basis. I truly wanted him to find himself, his place and happiness.
“Back in the day I used to make fun of guys who got hung up on their girlfriends… There’s nothing unmanly about wanting to keep your woman happy. It’s a strength, not a weakness.”
Meghan, even though having an “easier” life compared to Eric, she still has to go through what most young adults do when transitioning from student to the real world. Add to that the fact that she was in love with a criminal while dating a less than perfect jock and you can surmise that her life wasn’t that easy. I liked that she was strong enough to get out of her abusive relationship and that she saw beyond Eric’s past, saw the good person lying underneath the exterior coarseness, and fought for what she wanted.
The chemistry between Eric and Meghan is palpable, not only to them and the supporting characters. It completely leaped off the pages.
“I’ve never been like that before, so rough and aggressive. Her passionate response surprised me. Not only did she enjoy my caveman act, she followed me into the shower.”
I loved all the secondary characters who not only supported Eric and Meghan, but also enhanced this story about hope and love with the support and strength of family and friends. I did some investigating and found out that Ms. Sorenson has previously written about Eric’s sister-in-law and Meghan’s brother in a novel called The Edge of Night, which I’ve already added to my read list, and I hope we’ll soon get the story about Meghan’s best friend Kelsea.
Against the Wall is a contemporary, young adult romance by Jill Sorenson. This story is told from alternating points of view, explicit sexual content, with a happy ending.
Amazon -> http://amzn.to/1NKscfj
3.5 stars
* I was given an ARC of this book courtesy of the author via Tasty Book Tours & NetGalley. The excerpts are from that copy. *
More reviews * Stalk us on FaceBook * As well as Twitter * Pinterest Board for Book Teasers
February 14, 2016
I love to read redemption and second chance stories but unfortunately, I found myself unable to really connect with the characters. Eric has this immature way of rationalizing situations that really turns me off to him. There's a particular scene where he accidentally hurts someone and his thoughts switch to self harm immediately. Then there's Meghan who in a way keeps another man on a string, when her heart is not committed. Not to say that Chip didn't have warning signs all over him for other reasons. The story is a bit convoluted with the different sub plots. The love scenes were pretty good. Lol I won't see hoods the same again.
ARC received in exchange for an honest review.
ARC received in exchange for an honest review.
February 16, 2016
ARC received via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
3,5 STARS
Well, to be hones, this book didn't really meet my expectations. Sorry. It made me feel more like like this:
I don't know, if it was the constant push-pull play or Eric's almost immature POV but I simply couldn't connect to their story. Both Eric and Meghan have their past that is left unresolved when he goes to prison. Now that he's back so many things changed and some not for the better.
Meghan is having a new boyfriend, who treats her like a piece of trash and to tell you the truth, I never fully understood why she stayed with him for as long as she did. It takes her ending up beaten up by him, for her to finally leave him. I wished it didn't had to come to that but I was glad to see her leave his sorry ass. He never deserved her, anyway! So, it's safe to say I didn't harbour kind feelings for him!
Once she is free of her evil ex, she can start to breathe again and go for the one thing she never dreamed to have again. A second chance with Eric. But he, on the other hand, has different plans (as men usually do...). Since he's living under her brother's roof, he has clear 'instructions' to stay away from her. And you can imagine what comes out of that, right? YES, the boring pull-push play. Let me tell you, it goes on and on, till I almost gave up on them ever getting back together. Seriously, it takes a lot for them to finally see that what they have together simply cannot be ignored ANY LONGER!!!
Yes, I know I'm ranting but don't worry. They do have some great moments together and I loved to see Eric lose his composure and give into his feelings for Meghan.
I just . . . forgot.
I forgot my promise to Noah. I forgot about Chip. I forgot about everything except the soft curves of her body.
In the end, those two have to overcome so much. From the ultimate betrayal to finding love again, this story is an emotional roller coaster. I didn't know what I was getting into, when I first saw the blurb, but this was definitely not it. I'm just glad I gave their story a chance! :)
Safety-gang: Not really safe.
3,5 STARS
Well, to be hones, this book didn't really meet my expectations. Sorry. It made me feel more like like this:
I don't know, if it was the constant push-pull play or Eric's almost immature POV but I simply couldn't connect to their story. Both Eric and Meghan have their past that is left unresolved when he goes to prison. Now that he's back so many things changed and some not for the better.
Meghan is having a new boyfriend, who treats her like a piece of trash and to tell you the truth, I never fully understood why she stayed with him for as long as she did. It takes her ending up beaten up by him, for her to finally leave him. I wished it didn't had to come to that but I was glad to see her leave his sorry ass. He never deserved her, anyway! So, it's safe to say I didn't harbour kind feelings for him!
Once she is free of her evil ex, she can start to breathe again and go for the one thing she never dreamed to have again. A second chance with Eric. But he, on the other hand, has different plans (as men usually do...). Since he's living under her brother's roof, he has clear 'instructions' to stay away from her. And you can imagine what comes out of that, right? YES, the boring pull-push play. Let me tell you, it goes on and on, till I almost gave up on them ever getting back together. Seriously, it takes a lot for them to finally see that what they have together simply cannot be ignored ANY LONGER!!!
Yes, I know I'm ranting but don't worry. They do have some great moments together and I loved to see Eric lose his composure and give into his feelings for Meghan.
I just . . . forgot.
I forgot my promise to Noah. I forgot about Chip. I forgot about everything except the soft curves of her body.
In the end, those two have to overcome so much. From the ultimate betrayal to finding love again, this story is an emotional roller coaster. I didn't know what I was getting into, when I first saw the blurb, but this was definitely not it. I'm just glad I gave their story a chance! :)
Safety-gang: Not really safe.
February 4, 2016
DNF @ 18%
I have stopped and started this book three times in as many weeks. I think it’s safe to say that it’s not working for me, when I have read the same chapter several times and nothing is really being absorbed.
To be honest it’s not any one thing that has reduced my reading enjoyment to nil, but a whole host of them. Meghan and Eric didn’t really inspire any real feelings for them either way, and I really, really struggled to find or pull any connection with them from the portion of the novel that I managed to read. I can deal with 'downtrodden' and 'down on your luck' characterizations, but I need to at least feel a modicum of empathy or sympathy for the people experiencing those things…
If you check out the blurb, its leads the reader to believe that they are going to be getting a dark and gritty read, with lots of tension and forbidden feelings, a guy trying to make a new start and a girl looking to get started, and it just all felt really under-developed and superficial from the beginning, from the build up of the story-line to the filling out of the actual characters. I don’t know if there was a long end game on this one, but it just took too long to get going, I still wasn’t sure what was really happening and why by the time I gave up.
Not for me on this occasion, there were just too many negative factors to keep me interested or invested in the story.
ARC provided via Netgalley, in exchange for the above honest review.
I have stopped and started this book three times in as many weeks. I think it’s safe to say that it’s not working for me, when I have read the same chapter several times and nothing is really being absorbed.
To be honest it’s not any one thing that has reduced my reading enjoyment to nil, but a whole host of them. Meghan and Eric didn’t really inspire any real feelings for them either way, and I really, really struggled to find or pull any connection with them from the portion of the novel that I managed to read. I can deal with 'downtrodden' and 'down on your luck' characterizations, but I need to at least feel a modicum of empathy or sympathy for the people experiencing those things…
If you check out the blurb, its leads the reader to believe that they are going to be getting a dark and gritty read, with lots of tension and forbidden feelings, a guy trying to make a new start and a girl looking to get started, and it just all felt really under-developed and superficial from the beginning, from the build up of the story-line to the filling out of the actual characters. I don’t know if there was a long end game on this one, but it just took too long to get going, I still wasn’t sure what was really happening and why by the time I gave up.
Not for me on this occasion, there were just too many negative factors to keep me interested or invested in the story.
ARC provided via Netgalley, in exchange for the above honest review.
June 30, 2024
Today is my first day back in Chula Vista, the border town where I was born. It's the only place I've ever called home. The only place I've ever been, besides Mexico. And prison. I'm still down for my barrio, Castle Park. I can hold my head high on these streets. I'll probably die on these streets.
Eric Hernandez, Against the Wall
It's harder than I thought, being free. It's overwhelming.
"Do you want me to stay?" I ask him.
"No."
"You're all fucked up."
"I always will be."
This makes my eyes burn with a sudden, unstoppable rush of tears. Junior kept me alive in prison. He's had my back for years. And now I have to turn my back on him. There's no way we can continue to be friends.
Eric Hernandez, Against the Wall
It's harder than I thought, being free. It's overwhelming.
"Do you want me to stay?" I ask him.
"No."
"You're all fucked up."
"I always will be."
This makes my eyes burn with a sudden, unstoppable rush of tears. Junior kept me alive in prison. He's had my back for years. And now I have to turn my back on him. There's no way we can continue to be friends.
December 25, 2015
If you're looking for an afternoon chill with a romance book that has a tattooed bad boy with a criminal record then this is just the book for you because Eric Hernandez is one Hispanic hottie I enjoyed :D
I loved that this book reached sensible subjects like:
#DomesticViolence #NeverMore
#NoMeansNo #SlutWalk
So it wasn't just a book about a boy that had it rough and a girl that fell in love with him. The author reached some tough subjects but managed to keep the character of the book intact.
Yes I did find the heroine obnoxious at time (don't ask me why) but all in all it was a great read that I totally recommend ;)
*ARC generously provided by Netgalley in exchange for an honest review*
I loved that this book reached sensible subjects like:
#DomesticViolence #NeverMore
#NoMeansNo #SlutWalk
So it wasn't just a book about a boy that had it rough and a girl that fell in love with him. The author reached some tough subjects but managed to keep the character of the book intact.
Yes I did find the heroine obnoxious at time (don't ask me why) but all in all it was a great read that I totally recommend ;)
*ARC generously provided by Netgalley in exchange for an honest review*
February 3, 2016
1 Star
ABOUT THE BOOK
Title: Against the Wall
Series: Stand-alone
Author: Jill Sorenson
Release Date: February 2nd, 2016
Rating: 1 Star
Cliffhanger: No
Writing Style: First Person, Dual POV
HEA:
MY REVIEW
"I’ve never understood why people consider death romantic. As if it’s not true love unless something awful happens and everyone dies young"
To be honest I don't know what to expect from this book. From the title and cover I thought this was the usual steamy new adult novel, but it wasn't. I found the whole story was so vague. I didn't know what the main problem in this story. Even until 69% of the book I still didn't really understand what this story was about nor where the story was heading to.
Eric is a Mexican living in the US. Growing up in abusive and fucked-up family make him one of them. He was just released from jail because of manslaughter. Before he went to jail, he had a story with Meghan. They both still have feelings for each other even after three years apart when Eric was in jail.
But it wasn't well described why they were so into each other.
I really didn't feel the chemistry and connection between the two of them.
Like I said earlier, everything was so vague. This book didn't have a plot. Eric was a criminal, but he tried to be better. At first I thought he wanted to be a tattoo artist, but as the story went, it didn't end up like that.
There were quite lot of problems happened in the first half of the story, but in the end, the problems just left unresolved.
Even until the last page of the book, I still didn't understand WHAT THE HELL THIS STORY WAS ABOUT.
It's so frustrating reading a book like this!!
I know Eric is a Mexican. There were lots of Mexican culture in this book. BUT PLEASE, NOT ALL PEOPLE UNDERSTAND SPANISH. And I'm one of them. There were soooooo many terms in Spanish language in this book. It really pissed me off that I was literally 'forced' to google-translated everything!!
It's not my fault that I thought the only language used in this book was English. Because there was no explanation in the blurb that some characters were Mexicans.
Had I known this, I probably wouldn't have requested this from NetGalley in the first place.
As for the characters, I didn't like Meghan. She was so weak and stupid that she didn't do anything to stand up for herself when her boyfriend practically 'bullied' her.
Eric was okay. From the description, I didn't find him hot or handsome. I hate violence, and he was a gang member who always did criminals, so I can't say that I like him. But I can give him a little credit because he tried his best to be a better person.
Conclusion:
I didn't find anything special from this book. I didn't really enjoy this. Although the sex scenes were hot, it was lack of humor, and sweet moments. Even the title has no correlation whatsoever with the story.
ABOUT THE BOOK
Title: Against the Wall
Series: Stand-alone
Author: Jill Sorenson
Release Date: February 2nd, 2016
Rating: 1 Star
Cliffhanger: No
Writing Style: First Person, Dual POV
HEA:
MY REVIEW
"I’ve never understood why people consider death romantic. As if it’s not true love unless something awful happens and everyone dies young"
To be honest I don't know what to expect from this book. From the title and cover I thought this was the usual steamy new adult novel, but it wasn't. I found the whole story was so vague. I didn't know what the main problem in this story. Even until 69% of the book I still didn't really understand what this story was about nor where the story was heading to.
Eric is a Mexican living in the US. Growing up in abusive and fucked-up family make him one of them. He was just released from jail because of manslaughter. Before he went to jail, he had a story with Meghan. They both still have feelings for each other even after three years apart when Eric was in jail.
But it wasn't well described why they were so into each other.
I really didn't feel the chemistry and connection between the two of them.
Like I said earlier, everything was so vague. This book didn't have a plot. Eric was a criminal, but he tried to be better. At first I thought he wanted to be a tattoo artist, but as the story went, it didn't end up like that.
There were quite lot of problems happened in the first half of the story, but in the end, the problems just left unresolved.
Even until the last page of the book, I still didn't understand WHAT THE HELL THIS STORY WAS ABOUT.
It's so frustrating reading a book like this!!
I know Eric is a Mexican. There were lots of Mexican culture in this book. BUT PLEASE, NOT ALL PEOPLE UNDERSTAND SPANISH. And I'm one of them. There were soooooo many terms in Spanish language in this book. It really pissed me off that I was literally 'forced' to google-translated everything!!
It's not my fault that I thought the only language used in this book was English. Because there was no explanation in the blurb that some characters were Mexicans.
Had I known this, I probably wouldn't have requested this from NetGalley in the first place.
As for the characters, I didn't like Meghan. She was so weak and stupid that she didn't do anything to stand up for herself when her boyfriend practically 'bullied' her.
Eric was okay. From the description, I didn't find him hot or handsome. I hate violence, and he was a gang member who always did criminals, so I can't say that I like him. But I can give him a little credit because he tried his best to be a better person.
Conclusion:
I didn't find anything special from this book. I didn't really enjoy this. Although the sex scenes were hot, it was lack of humor, and sweet moments. Even the title has no correlation whatsoever with the story.
January 31, 2016
I love a good ex-con story but this one just didn't work for me. I felt no connection to Meghan and Eric. There was no chemistry between them at all.
November 14, 2015
I was looking for something different and I definitely got it with this fast-paced, easy to read yet very interesting (and hot) romance. How often do you get a romance where the hero is a convicted felon? And could you imagine rooting for him to get his HEA? Jill Sorenson's writing skills had me pulling for talented 'bad boy' artist Eric Hernandez and 'good girl' college student Meghan Young to get past all the obstacles in their way and make a go at a real relationship. There were many times where I was on the edge hoping that Eric would not make a wrong choice and head down the wrong road again. I really loved seeing him mature throughout the book and his determination to turn his life around and I had high hopes for his future with Meghan.
Eric...
Meghan...
This book is a sequel of sorts to The Edge of Night--Meghan's brother is the hero of that book and Eric's sister-in-law is the heroine.
More to come closer to release date. 4 1/2 stars
ARC provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Eric...
Meghan...
This book is a sequel of sorts to The Edge of Night--Meghan's brother is the hero of that book and Eric's sister-in-law is the heroine.
More to come closer to release date. 4 1/2 stars
ARC provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
February 2, 2016
3.5 stars ARC REVIEW
For me, one of Jill Sorenson's greatest strengths as a writer is her ability to take deep dives into her characters. I felt so overwhelmed with these characters and their desperate desires to break a out of cycle of violence. My heart kept breaking for Eric and his attempts to resist his old life - wanting to start fresh but being tempted again and again into his old life. This again reminds me that meritocracy is a myth. The belief that everyone starts at the same place and life and has the exact same opportunities to make choices is simply untrue. Some people are born into circumstances in which choices are more difficult and the price for those same choices are often higher.
The narrative is intense. I wondered how the author was going to resolve the issue with Eric and the gang members. I felt stressed throughout the entire story, especially because the author made the story real. Most of us do not deal with life and death situations everyday, but for some, the quest for survival is a daily battle. I thought Ms. Sorenson brought the story to a satisfying conclusion.
My one critique is that there are left over storylines that peaked my interest. I'm hoping that the author will consider writing additional stories for Junior and Kelsea. Crossing my fingers here.
IN A NUTSHELL:
If you enjoy a social relevant love story with great emotional tension, pick up this book!
Originally posted at: Love Affair with an e-Reader
For me, one of Jill Sorenson's greatest strengths as a writer is her ability to take deep dives into her characters. I felt so overwhelmed with these characters and their desperate desires to break a out of cycle of violence. My heart kept breaking for Eric and his attempts to resist his old life - wanting to start fresh but being tempted again and again into his old life. This again reminds me that meritocracy is a myth. The belief that everyone starts at the same place and life and has the exact same opportunities to make choices is simply untrue. Some people are born into circumstances in which choices are more difficult and the price for those same choices are often higher.
The narrative is intense. I wondered how the author was going to resolve the issue with Eric and the gang members. I felt stressed throughout the entire story, especially because the author made the story real. Most of us do not deal with life and death situations everyday, but for some, the quest for survival is a daily battle. I thought Ms. Sorenson brought the story to a satisfying conclusion.
My one critique is that there are left over storylines that peaked my interest. I'm hoping that the author will consider writing additional stories for Junior and Kelsea. Crossing my fingers here.
IN A NUTSHELL:
If you enjoy a social relevant love story with great emotional tension, pick up this book!
Originally posted at: Love Affair with an e-Reader
Want to read
November 9, 2015
***ARC kindly provided via NetGalley for the exchange of an honest review***
January 19, 2016
I'm really not sure how to start this review. I went into this book thinking it was a deep romance, which it is. However, this book is so, so much more than a romance.
I've read other books by Jill Sorenson so I wasn't really surprised at the excellent writing skills and storytelling ability. But what I was surprised about the depth of a story where she went into the actual life surrounding complications of the main characters.
She touched upon life in the barrio and surrounding areas and how different it can be for people that just get out of prison. She talks about how different lives become when you don't think you're good enough for someone because your life circumstances have changed. People look at you different and treat you different but inside you know you're the same good person. You just took responsibility for an action that changed your life.
The author also brings in other touchy subjects such as aggression towards women, abuse, body shaming, rape, and other crimes against women.
I loved watching the story develop. The author brings you a deep emotional book that is so much more than just a simple romance. You honestly have to experience this book to understand my review at all. If you have emotional triggers regarding the subject matter, it may be a book to skip. However, I think the author did an awesome job in highlighting these issues in our life today.
True love always finds a way and this book is a perfect example of what you thought was never meant to be becoming a wonderful happily ever after. Definitely a book to check out.
I've read other books by Jill Sorenson so I wasn't really surprised at the excellent writing skills and storytelling ability. But what I was surprised about the depth of a story where she went into the actual life surrounding complications of the main characters.
She touched upon life in the barrio and surrounding areas and how different it can be for people that just get out of prison. She talks about how different lives become when you don't think you're good enough for someone because your life circumstances have changed. People look at you different and treat you different but inside you know you're the same good person. You just took responsibility for an action that changed your life.
The author also brings in other touchy subjects such as aggression towards women, abuse, body shaming, rape, and other crimes against women.
I loved watching the story develop. The author brings you a deep emotional book that is so much more than just a simple romance. You honestly have to experience this book to understand my review at all. If you have emotional triggers regarding the subject matter, it may be a book to skip. However, I think the author did an awesome job in highlighting these issues in our life today.
True love always finds a way and this book is a perfect example of what you thought was never meant to be becoming a wonderful happily ever after. Definitely a book to check out.
February 2, 2016
Original review can be found at http://kristineandterri.blogspot.ca/2...
** I received an advanced readers copy from Loveswept via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!**
This book was OK but I really felt like I was missing a part of the story. Meghan and Eric's history before he went to prison was very vague and I thought I was missing a piece of the puzzle. I had to go back and check because I thought that perhaps this was a sequel but no. It was hard to route for their forbidden love when I couldn't feel and didn't know the beginning of their story.
Eric was a hard character for me to like. He came across as an immature, horny teenager. I understand that he spent three years in prison but he came across as a young boy just discovering what his penis could do with no control over his hormones. It was not sexy on him at all. Meghan also came across as younger than she was and their relationship felt like it wasn't anything deeper than raging hormones on both parts.
I don't want it to sound like I hated the book because I didn't. I just think that there was a lack of emotion and feeling to the story that could have made it great. It was still entertaining but just didn't pull at my heart strings as much as I would have liked. For me, I needed the story before the story in order to appreciate it fully.
** I received an advanced readers copy from Loveswept via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!**
This book was OK but I really felt like I was missing a part of the story. Meghan and Eric's history before he went to prison was very vague and I thought I was missing a piece of the puzzle. I had to go back and check because I thought that perhaps this was a sequel but no. It was hard to route for their forbidden love when I couldn't feel and didn't know the beginning of their story.
Eric was a hard character for me to like. He came across as an immature, horny teenager. I understand that he spent three years in prison but he came across as a young boy just discovering what his penis could do with no control over his hormones. It was not sexy on him at all. Meghan also came across as younger than she was and their relationship felt like it wasn't anything deeper than raging hormones on both parts.
I don't want it to sound like I hated the book because I didn't. I just think that there was a lack of emotion and feeling to the story that could have made it great. It was still entertaining but just didn't pull at my heart strings as much as I would have liked. For me, I needed the story before the story in order to appreciate it fully.
February 5, 2016
ARC received via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
2.5 stars. Unfortunately, this book was a struggle for me to finish. I had a very hard time connecting with the characters and while the storyline was compelling it just didn't keep me engaged.
2.5 stars. Unfortunately, this book was a struggle for me to finish. I had a very hard time connecting with the characters and while the storyline was compelling it just didn't keep me engaged.
February 5, 2016
Started reading and have no interest going back after about 32%
January 31, 2016
Like most people I read to escape reality and part of that escape means I'll inevitably think to myself, "That would NOT happen in real life!" But every once in a while I'll come across a story that I could 100% believe to be non-fiction. This is one of those stories.
Eric Hernandez could be a friend of mine. A guy with good intentions but a knack for finding himself in the thick of trouble. A guy whose only light comes from a niece he adores, her mother and the girl he pushed away years ago. Meghan comes from a different background than Eric but she doesn't shy away from him just because of it. Their sexual chemistry is off the charts but it's the emotional connection they share that makes you want to root for them.
What makes this story more realistic for me? First it's Eric's honesty about still being sexually attracted to other girls even though he's in love with Meghan. He doesn't suddenly go blind from love and not see other girls, even Meghan's best friend, but he isn't using that attraction excuse to walk around banging every girl he meets. Second, there is a thing that happens between Meghan and Eric and the way that it's handled is probably more realistic than any other story tells it. No cliché easy way outs here. Finally, the whole gang storyline feels more authentic because it wasn't over the top just for the sake of drama and Eric wasn't made out to be just some sort of hardcore gangster thug. He's just a kid who grew up on the streets and has had to keep himself safe by any means necessary. He's also the kid who's grown into a man who wants better for himself.
If you are looking for an over the top drama full of angst and sweetness, this isn't the book you are looking for. If you want to read a story of two people who are trying to get their HEA while weeding through the bs we call life, pick this one up.
*I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
Read more of my reviews at www.fictionfangirls.com
Eric Hernandez could be a friend of mine. A guy with good intentions but a knack for finding himself in the thick of trouble. A guy whose only light comes from a niece he adores, her mother and the girl he pushed away years ago. Meghan comes from a different background than Eric but she doesn't shy away from him just because of it. Their sexual chemistry is off the charts but it's the emotional connection they share that makes you want to root for them.
What makes this story more realistic for me? First it's Eric's honesty about still being sexually attracted to other girls even though he's in love with Meghan. He doesn't suddenly go blind from love and not see other girls, even Meghan's best friend, but he isn't using that attraction excuse to walk around banging every girl he meets. Second, there is a thing that happens between Meghan and Eric and the way that it's handled is probably more realistic than any other story tells it. No cliché easy way outs here. Finally, the whole gang storyline feels more authentic because it wasn't over the top just for the sake of drama and Eric wasn't made out to be just some sort of hardcore gangster thug. He's just a kid who grew up on the streets and has had to keep himself safe by any means necessary. He's also the kid who's grown into a man who wants better for himself.
If you are looking for an over the top drama full of angst and sweetness, this isn't the book you are looking for. If you want to read a story of two people who are trying to get their HEA while weeding through the bs we call life, pick this one up.
*I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
Read more of my reviews at www.fictionfangirls.com
February 13, 2016
Now and again I will dive head first into a romance but with a twist, and after reading the blurb on this one, I thought, why not.
Jill Sorenson's books are ones that I have been familiar with and I like her style of writing. I have to add though, its been a while since I read one of hers and I can she she's gone from strength to strength as this held me captive. I actually read this in one day.
I personally like some [what I call "umff" in a romance, something that is 'different from boy meets girl'] and I certainly found that between the pages of this read.
Every Mother's nightmare is when your daughter gets with a lad who is not worthy of your daughters love and affection. Someone who has been on the wrong side of the law. Someone you know as a Mom will not be a suitable match.
This had all the taste of that.....and more.
Its written in such a way that you keep going from page to page, ignoring how many chapters you are reading, your eyes and thoughts are totally into the story.
This is definitely a book I would recommend to someone who likes romance, twists and doesn't mind missing out on a days chores *wink*
My thanks go to Random House Publishing Group - Loveswept via Net Galley for my copy to read and review
March 5, 2016
Since I am not a huge New Adult reader this one was at first a struggle for me to get into. But eventually I did managed to get involved in the story to where I couldn't put it down. I felt that Eric's struggle to stay on the straight and narrow path felt real and I really liked him. Our heroine not so much. Going in, I didn't realize this was a 2nd book in a series, so I am going to go pick up that first book and I look forward to the friend's story ....maybe even a book for her sexy dad, the owner of the tattoo parlor. Sorry haven't had enough coffee and names are not coming to me today.
November 10, 2015
Review to follow closer to publication date...
BUT so happy to FINALLY get Eric and Meghan's story AND HEA (y'all should remember them from The Edge of Night which was released back in 2011, and how EVERYONE seemed to love Eric the most from that book and wanted to read a story about him)!!!
*ARC courtesy of Netgalley and Random House Publishing*
BUT so happy to FINALLY get Eric and Meghan's story AND HEA (y'all should remember them from The Edge of Night which was released back in 2011, and how EVERYONE seemed to love Eric the most from that book and wanted to read a story about him)!!!
*ARC courtesy of Netgalley and Random House Publishing*
February 29, 2016
Reviewed for herding cats & burning soup.
The quick of it is that Eric has been locked up for manslaughter but he's finally been released and is trying to start his life over. Trying to find work and staying with his sister-in-law, her new husband who is a cop and has a sister. A sister Eric had a thing with once upon a time and who is strictly off limits if he wants to stay with them. But the temptation. The temptation is fierce.
So there was a LOT going on in this one. Some of it worked for me. Some of it...not so much. I kinda ended up middle ground on this one. Not bad but not my favoritest of her reads.
>There's romance--and I do love those second chance, forbidden, have known each other forever type set ups.
>>There's some wicked heat--whew baby!
>>There's Eric dealing with his past life with a gang and trying to go straight---It was interesting seeing him deal with life on the outside after being locked up for a while. Finding work, not having options, or having too many options, run ins with his past, etc. I think Sorenson did a fantastic job getting that emotional struggle across.
>>There's Meghan's struggles with a current boyfriend who is abusive
>>There's another sideline with her volunteer work at a women's center on her campus, a slut walk they get involved with an an anonymous threat--this was a lot of my meh
>>There's an element with Eric's work at a tattoo shop and working on his art--he paints/draws
There was just a ton going on and it sometimes made for a loose read if that makes sense? Like there were just a few too many elements going on and competing for attention?
I did like them together for the most part and that they had some history. There's a lot of emotional turmoil they both have to deal with and things get steamy once they finally get together (takes a while). I never felt totally committed to it though and I think that has to do with my last thing down below.
I didn't love the heroine and her storyline as a whole, though. The whole slut walk thing just kinda bugged me. I don't like the whole attitude concerning sex and that women should fuck around like crazy because men are. Or the whole lets dress up slutty and act that way and then get upset/surprised when it garners attention. Meh. I know it's meant as girl power but I just find it sad. So that took away a good bit of enjoyment for me on this one. It felt childish and immature how it played out.
What I liked about this one was the different feel. It's not glamorous or prettied up. It was less fantasy romance and more realistic look into a life and it's struggles. So it was different.
One thing I found out after reading was this is part of a series. I so wish I'd known that ahead of time. It's book two and I did feel like I was walking in mid-series (even went and checked a couple times) since it felt like there was a lot of stuff between them that happened prior to this book. This is the only book for this couple but they were secondary in the previous book. So. Keep that in mind. I only figured it out because of reading someone else's review and their mentioning it.
Overall, Interesting but didn't hit all my buttons quite right.
November 15, 2015
ARC via NetGalley
4,0/5 stars
This was a pleasant surprise. Sure I'd hoped the book would be good, but it was actually a great and refreshing read.
Refreshing in the sense that the characters and the story (although focused on the romance) were different enough to make it stand out from the rest of the books in the same genre.
Eric is a convicted felon, and while the Meghan (the one he loves) and April (his ex sister-in-law) keep saying it was self defense, Eric doesn't play the victim card. He knows he screwed up and he's ready to pay for it. Watching him struggle to keep control of his anger, look for a job, lower his head to his boss's (sometimes absurd) demands and try to lead a normal life was touching. I was rooting for him. I wanted him to do well. I wanted him to find his HEA.
Meghan dealt with a lot of shit, too. An abusive boyfriend. An overprotective brother. Recriminating parents. And a love for the man who had once rejected her and was now back into her life -- one who'd just gotten out of prison. Girlfriend was living a hard life, but she kept going, and I admired her for that.
The sexual tension between Meghan and Eric was amazing. The fact that she stated right from the start that Eric was the love of her life hit me hard. I was rooting for them from that moment on... and they had barely talked then.
There was also a lot of Mexican/Spanish elements, which I thought made the story richer.
This book was dual-POV, but the voices weren't that distinctive. They weren't bad, but I thought the author could've done more.
The writing is solid, but there's a lot of telling. I mean... A lot! At some point, I started asking myself if this was part of a series and I'd picked up the third or fourth book or whatever, because there was a lot of telling going on. Although this isn't exactly the case, I learned that there was a book with Meghan's brother as the LI and Eric's sister-in-law as the MC, so yeah...
I'm really happy to have had the chance to read this story!
4,0/5 stars
This was a pleasant surprise. Sure I'd hoped the book would be good, but it was actually a great and refreshing read.
Refreshing in the sense that the characters and the story (although focused on the romance) were different enough to make it stand out from the rest of the books in the same genre.
Eric is a convicted felon, and while the Meghan (the one he loves) and April (his ex sister-in-law) keep saying it was self defense, Eric doesn't play the victim card. He knows he screwed up and he's ready to pay for it. Watching him struggle to keep control of his anger, look for a job, lower his head to his boss's (sometimes absurd) demands and try to lead a normal life was touching. I was rooting for him. I wanted him to do well. I wanted him to find his HEA.
Meghan dealt with a lot of shit, too. An abusive boyfriend. An overprotective brother. Recriminating parents. And a love for the man who had once rejected her and was now back into her life -- one who'd just gotten out of prison. Girlfriend was living a hard life, but she kept going, and I admired her for that.
The sexual tension between Meghan and Eric was amazing. The fact that she stated right from the start that Eric was the love of her life hit me hard. I was rooting for them from that moment on... and they had barely talked then.
There was also a lot of Mexican/Spanish elements, which I thought made the story richer.
This book was dual-POV, but the voices weren't that distinctive. They weren't bad, but I thought the author could've done more.
The writing is solid, but there's a lot of telling. I mean... A lot! At some point, I started asking myself if this was part of a series and I'd picked up the third or fourth book or whatever, because there was a lot of telling going on. Although this isn't exactly the case, I learned that there was a book with Meghan's brother as the LI and Eric's sister-in-law as the MC, so yeah...
I'm really happy to have had the chance to read this story!
February 2, 2016
Eric Hernandez just got out of jail and has no plans on ever going back. Staying with his pregnant sister and her homicide detective husband is not ideal, but he wants to start his new life right. Getting a chance to become a tattoo artist is a dream come true, but he as to work from the bottom up to get his shot. The one regret he does have is losing Meghan Young, he pushed her away and now that he is back she has a boyfriend.
Meghan remembers what it was like with Eric, she also needs to get the letter she wrote to him while he was in prison, it was returned unread. Her relationship with her current boyfriend though is not as rosy as it appears and hiding it is becoming more difficult. She wants Eric back but she doesn't realize he is between a rock and a hard place when it comes to her. Chemistry sizzles and the inevitable happens, they combust. Can they truly build something or will it be another regret.
There is a lot to this story, had layers upon layers of depth. I liked Eric, he is trying so hard and it is not an easy path. Meghan was an intriguing character, everything about her story you can easily picture. If your wanting to sink into a good book, this is one to pick up.
Meghan remembers what it was like with Eric, she also needs to get the letter she wrote to him while he was in prison, it was returned unread. Her relationship with her current boyfriend though is not as rosy as it appears and hiding it is becoming more difficult. She wants Eric back but she doesn't realize he is between a rock and a hard place when it comes to her. Chemistry sizzles and the inevitable happens, they combust. Can they truly build something or will it be another regret.
There is a lot to this story, had layers upon layers of depth. I liked Eric, he is trying so hard and it is not an easy path. Meghan was an intriguing character, everything about her story you can easily picture. If your wanting to sink into a good book, this is one to pick up.
February 2, 2016
If you are looking for a darker romance, with different story line, this may be the book you want to read! The hero, Eric, has just gotten out of prison and is trying to change his life. The heroine, Megan, is his ex from just before he went in to serve time for manslaughter.
Eric is trying hard to change, but when you grow up only knowing one thing, that is hard to do. After being released he is living with his ex-sister in-law and her new cop husband (who also happens to be his ex’s brother). With some good connections he is able to get a job at a tattoo parlor doing miscellaneous jobs, trying to prove himself.
Megan and Eric were dating when he went to prison. He broke her heart and told her he never loved her. When he is released, she has a hard time staying away…
I really liked this book. It was different than other books and it was nice being able to root for them. There are some situations in this book that may be hard for some to read, but I assure you they were well written and handled appropriately.
Everyone is very over protective of Megan and it makes her seem like a whiney brat at times. Other times I was very happy she was able to stand up for herself. I simply wish she was more consistent throughout the book. ~ Devlynn, 4 stars
Eric is trying hard to change, but when you grow up only knowing one thing, that is hard to do. After being released he is living with his ex-sister in-law and her new cop husband (who also happens to be his ex’s brother). With some good connections he is able to get a job at a tattoo parlor doing miscellaneous jobs, trying to prove himself.
Megan and Eric were dating when he went to prison. He broke her heart and told her he never loved her. When he is released, she has a hard time staying away…
I really liked this book. It was different than other books and it was nice being able to root for them. There are some situations in this book that may be hard for some to read, but I assure you they were well written and handled appropriately.
Everyone is very over protective of Megan and it makes her seem like a whiney brat at times. Other times I was very happy she was able to stand up for herself. I simply wish she was more consistent throughout the book. ~ Devlynn, 4 stars
February 4, 2016
Originally posted over SmexyBooks-http://smexybooks.com/2016/02/review-...
Favorite Quote: “It’s harder than I thought, being free. It’s overwhelming.”
Eric Hernandez has just been released after serving a 30 month stretch for manslaughter. A former gang member, Eric knows he has to stay clean if he wants to make it and stay on the outside. With the help of family, Eric gets a job at a tattoo parlor and slowly begins to transition to living as a free man. Now all he needs to do is stop thinking about the girl he loved and left behind.
Meghan Young was there when Eric was sent to prison. A preacher’s daughter and a cop’s sister, she knows Eric is the worst possible person for her but the heart wants what the heart wants Currently in a relationship, Meghan tries to keep her problems to herself, not wanting to see Eric or her brother get in trouble. But when her secret comes to light, Eric steps in, and Meghan’s crush on the troubled boy turns into love for the man he’s become.
Against The Wall is the story of Eric and Meghan whom we met in The Edge of Night. While this one can be read as a standalone, I don’t recommend it. Sorenson does an admirable job of recapping what you need to know but the emotional turmoil that surrounded Eric and Meghan is missing. Though not as edgy or dark as The Edge of Night, Sorenson still manages to capture the same feelings of anticipation and danger that was present in book one. Well written with a steady pace and perfectly timed execution, Sorenson captures her character’s thoughts and emotions perfectly while building a thought provoking base on which to showcase them.
Picking up almost three years later, we are met with Eric Hernandez leaving prison and wondering what his future holds. Eric went to prison when he killed a man though it was in self-defense. He chooses to plead guilty and do the time because he feels he must take responsibility for his actions. He made sure he forcefully cut all ties with the girl he loved, Meghan Young, so that she would not be dragged down with him. Eric is offered a place to stay with his brother’s ex, April, and her husband, Noah, who is also Meghan’s brother. Meghan has since moved out of Noah and April’s house and on with her life. Currently in college and living with her boyfriend, Chip, Meghan knows Eric is out and steels herself to see him again. Even though she is dating someone else, her love for Eric has never died.
While Against the Wall is touted primarily as a romance, there is much more at work here. And that in itself is both its strength and weakness. The romance is but a single element in this story of second chances and redemption that focuses two people who are trying to deal with the choices they made as they enter a new chapter in their lives. While this strong contemporary does what it intended, romance fans may be disappointed the romance isn’t as powerful or robust as they might expect.
Sorenson does a fantastic job with the characterization of Meghan and Eric. They are not Romeo and Juliet, pining away for each other as they are unjustly kept apart. Circumstances of their own making separated them and the drama and angst that results from it is realistic and justified. Layered and complicated, Sorenson digs deep beneath the stereotypes and slowly re-images this couple, comparing their childhoods and current situations in order to show us their differences and similarities. Eric is a former gangbanger who used to run drugs for his brother. His gang affiliation is part of what sent him to prison. He was born into the life and now faces the uphill battle of trying to survive without it. We watch as Eric is forced to see himself from the eyes of others, having to prove he is more than just a convicted felon, and the struggles he faces trying to stay clean and out of trouble.
“I have to find a way to pacify my rivals. Otherwise I’ll never be free.”
Meghan is also struggling though she hides it well. A golden girl from a strict, religious family, Meghan initiated her bid for independence by choosing to move to California to live with her brother and go to the college of her choice. She is close to graduation but feels adrift. She is in a relationship for the wrong reasons and is beginning to see herself as nothing more than someone’s property and the pretty eye candy to decorate their arm. She has a strong support net but feels completely alone.
“You’re her golden boy and I’m a sinning harlot.”
“Don’t say that!”
“It’s true.”
“No, it’s not. It’s a bullshit double standard.”
Sorenson addresses many topics throughout the story, weaving them with in the narrative. She talks about the gang culture and its allure; showing us the emotional, mental, and physical needs it can fill and the ramifications of trying to break free from it. She also talks about body and sexual shaming, harassment, stalking, and domestic violence. The mention of 4chan and social media only solidifies the message I felt Sorenson was trying to get across. That both Eric and Meghan are victims of society and its views though how it chooses to send its messages to them is very different. These topics, along with others, are imperative to the second chance romance as they all go hand in hand with helping to explain how Meghan and Eric view themselves as individuals and as a potential couple. Intense sexual tension and actual love scenes gives the story just the right amount of heat without feeling gratuitous.
“He’s telling me all this to prove he’s not an angel. Well, mission accomplished. But he was also trying to push me away before I got to close. He probably thinks it’s for my own good. He told me he didn’t want me for my own good. He sent back my letter unopened for my own good. Maybe he fucked Oscar’s girlfriend out of concern for me, too? Maybe he thought of me the whole time he fucked her-for my own good.”
Some familiar faces are seen along with some new ones. We see how Noah, April, and Jenny are doing along with Junior and other gang members as they drift in and out of Eric’s life. We meet Meghan’s best friend, Kelsea, and learn of her connection to the group from Fine Ink-a tattoo parlor that gives Eric a job. Various subplots intertwine with the main plot, adding depth and emotion to the story. I did feel two subplots seemed to fade after a considerable build up but as the story moved towards the end, I got the feeling that Sorenson isn’t done with these characters yet. I certainly hope not as I am hoping to revisit Fine Ink and Kelsea.
The ending is a climactic finale that resolves the main conflict and clears the way for Meghan and Eric’s future but leaves us with nothing absolute. Against The Wall gives fans the story they’ve been waiting for and signs that this may not be the last time she revisits these characters or their lives.
GRADE: B
Favorite Quote: “It’s harder than I thought, being free. It’s overwhelming.”
Eric Hernandez has just been released after serving a 30 month stretch for manslaughter. A former gang member, Eric knows he has to stay clean if he wants to make it and stay on the outside. With the help of family, Eric gets a job at a tattoo parlor and slowly begins to transition to living as a free man. Now all he needs to do is stop thinking about the girl he loved and left behind.
Meghan Young was there when Eric was sent to prison. A preacher’s daughter and a cop’s sister, she knows Eric is the worst possible person for her but the heart wants what the heart wants Currently in a relationship, Meghan tries to keep her problems to herself, not wanting to see Eric or her brother get in trouble. But when her secret comes to light, Eric steps in, and Meghan’s crush on the troubled boy turns into love for the man he’s become.
Against The Wall is the story of Eric and Meghan whom we met in The Edge of Night. While this one can be read as a standalone, I don’t recommend it. Sorenson does an admirable job of recapping what you need to know but the emotional turmoil that surrounded Eric and Meghan is missing. Though not as edgy or dark as The Edge of Night, Sorenson still manages to capture the same feelings of anticipation and danger that was present in book one. Well written with a steady pace and perfectly timed execution, Sorenson captures her character’s thoughts and emotions perfectly while building a thought provoking base on which to showcase them.
Picking up almost three years later, we are met with Eric Hernandez leaving prison and wondering what his future holds. Eric went to prison when he killed a man though it was in self-defense. He chooses to plead guilty and do the time because he feels he must take responsibility for his actions. He made sure he forcefully cut all ties with the girl he loved, Meghan Young, so that she would not be dragged down with him. Eric is offered a place to stay with his brother’s ex, April, and her husband, Noah, who is also Meghan’s brother. Meghan has since moved out of Noah and April’s house and on with her life. Currently in college and living with her boyfriend, Chip, Meghan knows Eric is out and steels herself to see him again. Even though she is dating someone else, her love for Eric has never died.
While Against the Wall is touted primarily as a romance, there is much more at work here. And that in itself is both its strength and weakness. The romance is but a single element in this story of second chances and redemption that focuses two people who are trying to deal with the choices they made as they enter a new chapter in their lives. While this strong contemporary does what it intended, romance fans may be disappointed the romance isn’t as powerful or robust as they might expect.
Sorenson does a fantastic job with the characterization of Meghan and Eric. They are not Romeo and Juliet, pining away for each other as they are unjustly kept apart. Circumstances of their own making separated them and the drama and angst that results from it is realistic and justified. Layered and complicated, Sorenson digs deep beneath the stereotypes and slowly re-images this couple, comparing their childhoods and current situations in order to show us their differences and similarities. Eric is a former gangbanger who used to run drugs for his brother. His gang affiliation is part of what sent him to prison. He was born into the life and now faces the uphill battle of trying to survive without it. We watch as Eric is forced to see himself from the eyes of others, having to prove he is more than just a convicted felon, and the struggles he faces trying to stay clean and out of trouble.
“I have to find a way to pacify my rivals. Otherwise I’ll never be free.”
Meghan is also struggling though she hides it well. A golden girl from a strict, religious family, Meghan initiated her bid for independence by choosing to move to California to live with her brother and go to the college of her choice. She is close to graduation but feels adrift. She is in a relationship for the wrong reasons and is beginning to see herself as nothing more than someone’s property and the pretty eye candy to decorate their arm. She has a strong support net but feels completely alone.
“You’re her golden boy and I’m a sinning harlot.”
“Don’t say that!”
“It’s true.”
“No, it’s not. It’s a bullshit double standard.”
Sorenson addresses many topics throughout the story, weaving them with in the narrative. She talks about the gang culture and its allure; showing us the emotional, mental, and physical needs it can fill and the ramifications of trying to break free from it. She also talks about body and sexual shaming, harassment, stalking, and domestic violence. The mention of 4chan and social media only solidifies the message I felt Sorenson was trying to get across. That both Eric and Meghan are victims of society and its views though how it chooses to send its messages to them is very different. These topics, along with others, are imperative to the second chance romance as they all go hand in hand with helping to explain how Meghan and Eric view themselves as individuals and as a potential couple. Intense sexual tension and actual love scenes gives the story just the right amount of heat without feeling gratuitous.
“He’s telling me all this to prove he’s not an angel. Well, mission accomplished. But he was also trying to push me away before I got to close. He probably thinks it’s for my own good. He told me he didn’t want me for my own good. He sent back my letter unopened for my own good. Maybe he fucked Oscar’s girlfriend out of concern for me, too? Maybe he thought of me the whole time he fucked her-for my own good.”
Some familiar faces are seen along with some new ones. We see how Noah, April, and Jenny are doing along with Junior and other gang members as they drift in and out of Eric’s life. We meet Meghan’s best friend, Kelsea, and learn of her connection to the group from Fine Ink-a tattoo parlor that gives Eric a job. Various subplots intertwine with the main plot, adding depth and emotion to the story. I did feel two subplots seemed to fade after a considerable build up but as the story moved towards the end, I got the feeling that Sorenson isn’t done with these characters yet. I certainly hope not as I am hoping to revisit Fine Ink and Kelsea.
The ending is a climactic finale that resolves the main conflict and clears the way for Meghan and Eric’s future but leaves us with nothing absolute. Against The Wall gives fans the story they’ve been waiting for and signs that this may not be the last time she revisits these characters or their lives.
GRADE: B
February 22, 2016
3.5 stars
When it book is pitched towards the fans of Simone Elkeles, I am all over it.
Of all the tropes that are out there - I have a soft spot for the bad boy/good girl. This is probably because when I started reading contemporary romances more and more, these are the ones I picked up. This also has a dash of second chance romance and I ate it up!
Against the Wall is the story of Eric and Meghan. Eric is just getting out of prison for manslaughter. Meghan is still trying to get over Eric when he IS released. These two were together before the incident, and in order to protect Meghan, Eric cut all ties. But their attraction is palpable and it's no wonder why these two were together to begin with!
I want to point out that while the romance is heavy - I feel like this is more of a.. redemption story. Or better yet, a second chance at LIFE, to make the changes that you want. Eric grew up in the gang he was affiliated with, and he was trying SO HARD to turn his life around. He's an artist that has so much heart. Sure, he's rough around the edges, does things that INFURIATED me but I my heart was aching for his situation.
Even though pity is not something he'd like.
Meghan was such a fun-loving character as well. She never fully got over Eric, and the relationship she was currently in was toxic. I didn't understand WHY she was with the guy. I honestly couldn't help but feel that it was there for convenience sake. But I digress.
Meghan isn't all sunshine and rainbows. Sure, she had a more religious upbringing, but I never felt like it was.. a THING in the story. She's confused about her life, what she wants to do and of course, goes even more off kilter once Eric is released. She was naive in the sense that she thought everything could go back to normal for Eric - and pushed him on many levels. Still, she is a great balance for him and I loved them together.
I thought their situation was quite hilarious - with Eric staying with Meghan's DETECTIVE brother. There are ties there, from the previous book so it's explained. I didn't realize that this was a continuation story of sorts, having the first book be about Meghan's brother Noah and Eric's sister-in-law, April. I am not quite sure if the events leading up to Eric's incarceration were apart of that story, or if we even get these characters in that story at all. I am curious though, so I will be going back to read it.
I also loved the support of the secondary characters and the community. They really reached out to help Eric, and gave him the second change that he needed. The ending was well done, albeit rushed, and I am curious if there WILL be another story, maybe for Kelsea?
All in all - I really enjoyed Against the Wall. It's a quick read - full of drama, heart-felt moments and I can't forget, sexy too!
I received this book for free from The Publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
When it book is pitched towards the fans of Simone Elkeles, I am all over it.
Of all the tropes that are out there - I have a soft spot for the bad boy/good girl. This is probably because when I started reading contemporary romances more and more, these are the ones I picked up. This also has a dash of second chance romance and I ate it up!
Against the Wall is the story of Eric and Meghan. Eric is just getting out of prison for manslaughter. Meghan is still trying to get over Eric when he IS released. These two were together before the incident, and in order to protect Meghan, Eric cut all ties. But their attraction is palpable and it's no wonder why these two were together to begin with!
I want to point out that while the romance is heavy - I feel like this is more of a.. redemption story. Or better yet, a second chance at LIFE, to make the changes that you want. Eric grew up in the gang he was affiliated with, and he was trying SO HARD to turn his life around. He's an artist that has so much heart. Sure, he's rough around the edges, does things that INFURIATED me but I my heart was aching for his situation.
Even though pity is not something he'd like.
Meghan was such a fun-loving character as well. She never fully got over Eric, and the relationship she was currently in was toxic. I didn't understand WHY she was with the guy. I honestly couldn't help but feel that it was there for convenience sake. But I digress.
Meghan isn't all sunshine and rainbows. Sure, she had a more religious upbringing, but I never felt like it was.. a THING in the story. She's confused about her life, what she wants to do and of course, goes even more off kilter once Eric is released. She was naive in the sense that she thought everything could go back to normal for Eric - and pushed him on many levels. Still, she is a great balance for him and I loved them together.
I thought their situation was quite hilarious - with Eric staying with Meghan's DETECTIVE brother. There are ties there, from the previous book so it's explained. I didn't realize that this was a continuation story of sorts, having the first book be about Meghan's brother Noah and Eric's sister-in-law, April. I am not quite sure if the events leading up to Eric's incarceration were apart of that story, or if we even get these characters in that story at all. I am curious though, so I will be going back to read it.
I also loved the support of the secondary characters and the community. They really reached out to help Eric, and gave him the second change that he needed. The ending was well done, albeit rushed, and I am curious if there WILL be another story, maybe for Kelsea?
All in all - I really enjoyed Against the Wall. It's a quick read - full of drama, heart-felt moments and I can't forget, sexy too!
I received this book for free from The Publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
February 9, 2016
I hate you, Goodreads. I wrote a lengthy review about Jill Sorenson's characters engaging explicitly with masculinity, slutshaming (but not its intersection with race), and online hate groups in Against the Wall, though those elements are peripheral to the main plot revolving around the troubled, de facto orphan Eric Hernandez who ran drugs in order to look after his grandmother and niece in
The Edge of Night
. In Night, Eric falls in love with Meghan Young, sister to an overprotective gang task force officer. When he's convicted, he breaks up with Meghan for her own good.
Against the Wall
takes place three years later, when he's released.
I wrote that I liked the self-examination and meta commentary of her characters, like when Eric talks about being firme, and also that Sorenson complicates all her characters. There's sweet, smart, artistic drop-out Eric. I didn't really believe he had no experience with "nice families" given that he used to help his older sister-in-law financially. That's a complicated relationship requiring social intelligence to maintain. By the way, I love their relationship. Also, Noah and April's relationship! I liked that their relationship's so clearly loving and at the same time their cameos involved more substance than just, "They're all over each other. And pregnant. Yay." They have expectations of each other and family obligations come into it, etc.
Then there's Chip, Meghan's ex, who could have been a Douche flashcard, popped collar and all. Girls should read that guys don't have to be all bad or glaringly, incontrovertibly bad in order to be declared bad guys or at least poor boyfriend material. Also, Meghan was kind of yellow, failing to stand up to her overbearing brother and making Eric take all the heat for their relationship. I would have liked more exploration of her as a person.
But since all that was erased, I will just say I highly recommend this Romeo and Juliet, wrong-side-of-the-tracks romance, but read The Edge of Night first. Most sequels can be read alone. This cannot. It will be confusing and not as meaningful. By the way, loved the Spanish slang. Context clues, dudes. Four stars. Cannot wait for Ian's story. More of these settings and characters, please!
I wrote that I liked the self-examination and meta commentary of her characters, like when Eric talks about being firme, and also that Sorenson complicates all her characters. There's sweet, smart, artistic drop-out Eric. I didn't really believe he had no experience with "nice families" given that he used to help his older sister-in-law financially. That's a complicated relationship requiring social intelligence to maintain. By the way, I love their relationship. Also, Noah and April's relationship! I liked that their relationship's so clearly loving and at the same time their cameos involved more substance than just, "They're all over each other. And pregnant. Yay." They have expectations of each other and family obligations come into it, etc.
Then there's Chip, Meghan's ex, who could have been a Douche flashcard, popped collar and all. Girls should read that guys don't have to be all bad or glaringly, incontrovertibly bad in order to be declared bad guys or at least poor boyfriend material. Also, Meghan was kind of yellow, failing to stand up to her overbearing brother and making Eric take all the heat for their relationship. I would have liked more exploration of her as a person.
But since all that was erased, I will just say I highly recommend this Romeo and Juliet, wrong-side-of-the-tracks romance, but read The Edge of Night first. Most sequels can be read alone. This cannot. It will be confusing and not as meaningful. By the way, loved the Spanish slang. Context clues, dudes. Four stars. Cannot wait for Ian's story. More of these settings and characters, please!
February 2, 2016
Once again Ms. Sorenson (
Aftershock
) does a fantastic job of giving us a non-traditional hero--Eric's a former gang member who's just gotten out of prison on a manslaughter sentence--and making me believe in him 110%. The alternating first person POV chapters really pulled me into both Eric and Meghan's heads and swept me right into their chaotic lives. I didn't even realize until the author's note at the end that this was a sequel of sorts to
The Edge of Night
, a book which I've had on my TBR but haven't yet had the chance to read. You know right from the beginning that Eric and Meghan have a past, but we're given enough details about what had gone down before Eric went away that it never even occurred to me that there'd been another book with these characters.
Though of course now I *have* to read it, because, Noah and April! But I digress...
I was completely invested in this story from the very first chapter. It was impossible not to root for Eric and Meghan, both in their individual lives and as a couple. Eric's story was especially heartbreaking--could he ever truly be free of the gang life? What kind of a future is an ex-con going to have, really? Is he strong enough to completely break free from his past?--and right up until the end, I wasn't sure how he'd manage to pull through. Meghan's got her own problems as well--graduation is looming, and she's not completely sure of where to go from there. Her once-perfect relationship is showing more than a few cracks, and she and her best friend are facing threats at the women's resource center where they volunteer. (That storyline isn't ever fully resolved--dare we hope that Kelsea will get her own story so we can find out what was going on there?) So, yeah, on their own they've got plenty going on. But put them together, and whoa.
This book had me tearing up more than once, and I can't even tell you how many involuntary utterances the last few chapters wrung from me. Let's just say the kids are going to ban me from reading in the car while they're driving in the future ;) We were all relieved when I finally got to the end.
If you enjoy gritty, realistic romances, then this is definitely one to try.
Rating: 4 1/2 stars / A
I received a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.
Though of course now I *have* to read it, because, Noah and April! But I digress...
I was completely invested in this story from the very first chapter. It was impossible not to root for Eric and Meghan, both in their individual lives and as a couple. Eric's story was especially heartbreaking--could he ever truly be free of the gang life? What kind of a future is an ex-con going to have, really? Is he strong enough to completely break free from his past?--and right up until the end, I wasn't sure how he'd manage to pull through. Meghan's got her own problems as well--graduation is looming, and she's not completely sure of where to go from there. Her once-perfect relationship is showing more than a few cracks, and she and her best friend are facing threats at the women's resource center where they volunteer. (That storyline isn't ever fully resolved--dare we hope that Kelsea will get her own story so we can find out what was going on there?) So, yeah, on their own they've got plenty going on. But put them together, and whoa.
This book had me tearing up more than once, and I can't even tell you how many involuntary utterances the last few chapters wrung from me. Let's just say the kids are going to ban me from reading in the car while they're driving in the future ;) We were all relieved when I finally got to the end.
If you enjoy gritty, realistic romances, then this is definitely one to try.
Rating: 4 1/2 stars / A
I received a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.
December 31, 2015
I had no idea Against the Wall was a second book in a series until I started reading it. It doesn't impact anything, though. This story, as well as the first, is a standalone with an HEA. I enjoyed this new-to-me author's writing. I laughed at the characters a couple of times, felt sorry for them in other situations, and held out hope that Eric would go straight.
Three years ago, Eric Hernandez went to prison for manslaughter. Because he didn't want his then girlfriend, Meghan, to sit around and wait on him, he pushed her away. He told her he didn't want her anymore, even though she was all he thought about during his prison stint. He survived inside those walls by drawing sketches and tattooing. Not to mention his best friend Junior with ties to the Mexican Mafia. When Eric is released he goes to stay with his ex-sister-in-law and her new cop husband, Noah, who is Meghan's brother. Noah helps him get his foot in the door of a tattoo parlor where he becomes a somewhat jack-of-all-trades to prove himself worthy of the job.
Meghan has moved on from Eric. Her new boyfriend, Chip, is the rich, athletic type. However, his growing aggression is coming between them. A gap that is made even wider with the return of Eric, the first guy she ever loved and who still holds her heart. He may be a criminal, but she knows he is a good person. Besides April, she's the only on who can see past the dangerous persona he tries to embody.
There are some issues this book deals with that are hard to ignore. However, I liked the protectiveness of not only Noah, but Eric as well when it came to Meghan. Their romance gets a second chance although Eric is still trying to protect Meghan from him, for her own good. I was amazed at how strong a friendship Junior and Eric have. The sacrifice he makes for Eric at the end took courage and heart, even though he's a gang banger and drug dealer. You know what they say, the devil protects his own.
This is not the darkest romance I've read. If overcoming a rough past and trying to improve your future is something you like to read about, then I think you should take a chance on this book.
~ARC provided through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review~
Releases 2.2.16
November 23, 2015
I don't know what it is about a man with tatts that just makes me drool, but it does. A man that is a tattoo artist...well, usually I'd be swooning and drooling. And in this case, I kind of was, just not for Eric. Give me Tank or Matthew and yup, I would've been all over that, but Eric...Nope.
Where to start? The secondary characters were well and truly more interesting that Eric and Meghan. Eric tried too hard to come across as being a typical ex-con, but with his 'artist heart' he was too soft, too vulnerable, too...ugh, he almost seemed like a moody teenage girl in places. He wasn't interesting, he didn't grab my attention, honestly, I just wanted to know more about Matthew and Tank - yes, give me more Tank!!!
Meghan...yeah, I'm not even going to waste my time ranting and raving about how niave, idiotic and just plain annoying she was.
So, by now you're probably wondering why I gave the book three stars? Well, that's easy. Despite the alright story line and main characters that I could've done without, the secondary characters and their stories actually made this book. THEY are why I enjoyed this story and actually read it all the way to the end. I wanted more of them, wanted to know more about them. They were all intriguing and were real and relateable. THEY'RE who I want to read about, see them evolve and grow and find their other halves.
November 13, 2015
While I've read and thoroughly enjoyed some of Jill Sorenson's books before, this was one I could take or leave.
I love a good book with some characters with dark pasts, but this was a little too gangster-ish for me. I liked Eric a lot and while he had definitely cleaned up his act by the end, it's like that tether was still there to his criminal ways and was ready to snap him back at any moment. And while that's what some may enjoy, it's just not for me.
I did really like Meghan but I almost kept looking at her like she was much younger than her years for some reason. I'm talking high school young. While I'm older, I can still usually find some ways to relate to the characters in the story, but this one gave me a much harder time because I almost felt like I was reading a teen love story to be honest.
Also, I felt like I was missing a huge chunk of Meghan and Eric's story. As well as April and Noah's. I don't know if they were written in another book but I felt like I started in the middle of things and I never felt like I was getting an entire story the whole way through.
**Received a copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review**
I love a good book with some characters with dark pasts, but this was a little too gangster-ish for me. I liked Eric a lot and while he had definitely cleaned up his act by the end, it's like that tether was still there to his criminal ways and was ready to snap him back at any moment. And while that's what some may enjoy, it's just not for me.
I did really like Meghan but I almost kept looking at her like she was much younger than her years for some reason. I'm talking high school young. While I'm older, I can still usually find some ways to relate to the characters in the story, but this one gave me a much harder time because I almost felt like I was reading a teen love story to be honest.
Also, I felt like I was missing a huge chunk of Meghan and Eric's story. As well as April and Noah's. I don't know if they were written in another book but I felt like I started in the middle of things and I never felt like I was getting an entire story the whole way through.
**Received a copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review**
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