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London Lovers #4
Not The One
*A London Lovers Series Full Length Standalone*
My name is Reyna Miracle.
Even though a part of my name is Miracle, there’s nothing miraculous about me.
My body portrays the tales of my life.
Every feeling, every heartbreak, every emotion.
Marked. Inked. Stained.
A walking canvas of my messed up truth.
But there’s one confession I can’t put in a tattoo.
A confession that will kill me to tell, but my best friend died before I had the chance.
Now I’m left with him.
The only one who can hold me in the night and squeeze that spot on my neck that feels like my lifeline between sanity and chaos.
But we don’t work together.
We’re absolute poison for each other.
We’re a stifling, suffocating, sickness of darkness.
But I feel safe...because I’ve made an art of pushing people away.
Now he’s pushing back…
And making me believe...
Making me wonder...
Maybe, just maybe...
I could be the one.
My name is Reyna Miracle.
Even though a part of my name is Miracle, there’s nothing miraculous about me.
My body portrays the tales of my life.
Every feeling, every heartbreak, every emotion.
Marked. Inked. Stained.
A walking canvas of my messed up truth.
But there’s one confession I can’t put in a tattoo.
A confession that will kill me to tell, but my best friend died before I had the chance.
Now I’m left with him.
The only one who can hold me in the night and squeeze that spot on my neck that feels like my lifeline between sanity and chaos.
But we don’t work together.
We’re absolute poison for each other.
We’re a stifling, suffocating, sickness of darkness.
But I feel safe...because I’ve made an art of pushing people away.
Now he’s pushing back…
And making me believe...
Making me wonder...
Maybe, just maybe...
I could be the one.
334 pages, Paperback
First published December 7, 2015
814 people are currently reading
2499 people want to read
About the author
Amy Daws
38 books11.6k followersNumber 1 Amazon Bestselling author Amy Daws writes spicy love stories that take place in America, as well as across the pond. She's most known for her footy-playing Harris Brothers and writing in a tire shop waiting room. When Amy is not writing, she’s likely making charcuterie boards from her home in South Dakota where she lives with her daughter and husband.
For more of Amy's work, visit: http://www.amydawsauthor.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 259 reviews
January 8, 2016
Title: Not The One
Series: London Lovers #4
Author: Amy Daws
Release date: December 7, 2015
Cliffhanger: No
HEA
His gaze on me is saying so much that I can't break eye contact with him for fear of falling.
Her name was Reyna Miracle. But don’t call her a miracle unless you want to feel the bite of her wrath. She was as prickly as a cactus, and bound and determined to push everyone away who tried to form an attachment to her. But there was one girl who would push through her barriers and bring light into her darkness. Marisa. She was the catalyst for change, and in the end, Reyna’s ultimate betrayal. Have you ever done something that haunts you? Something that makes you desperate to go back to when your world cracked wide open and do things differently? After one cataclysmic event, she will never be the same again.
The book takes place after she graduates the Masters program at Oxford. We know that something happened to her there. Something that scarred her emotionally, but we only get small flashbacks that shed some light onto what happened. The more we are told, the more evident it is that Reyna is living with regret and shame so overpowering, that she won't allow herself any happiness. She's not living, she's surviving.
I'm not going to lie to you and tell you that Rey is the most likable of people. In fact, there were times I was downright appalled by her actions. She's one of those characters that are self-destructive and belligerent. She has defense mechanisms up a mile high, and stubborn as hell. She has characteristics that are typically seen in the "tortured hero". The ones that constantly refuse to acknowledge their feelings, tell their loved one that they are a bad seed, and they will only bring them misery. And their words always become a self-fulfilling prophesy. In this case, the heroine is very much tortured, and in denial over her true emotions. And because of this, she causes a lot of pain.
Liam is a man from before. Before everything came crashing down on her. A ghost who she wishes she could forget, but after he re-enters her life, he resurrects all of those unpleasant feelings again. To be frank, it took me some time to figure out what Liam's feelings for her sprouted from. After all of the flashbacks were complete and we are caught up the the present time, I was still left with questions.
(Major spoilers, so read at your own discretion.)
Liam is a character that you hurt for. This is my first book by this author, and I haven't read the previous books in the series. But from what I gather, Liam plays a big role in A Broken Us. He's the third in a love triangle that gets the bad end of the deal. Now, again, we're seeing him get his heart trodden on. You can feel his frustration and helplessness. He takes one step forward with Rey and two steps back. But he feels like he's the only one who can see the true Reyna. He can look in her eyes and see deep down in her secretive soul like no one else can.
They have a great tension between the two of them, a push and pull that makes their desire pulse so strongly. Their chemistry was undeniable in the present, mostly fueled by anger, frustration, and the urgency they feel to be close to one another. I did feel their emotions come across very easily, in fact, I was addicted to this dysfunctional ride they were taking me on.
What we're doing is for a pure and intense connection. It's not just a coping mechanism. It's not a raw, carnal need to fuck. It's a deep, burning urge to feel.
Now, having said how unlikable Rey can be, I also appreciate the depth to her character. As well, if they go through a healing process and evolve into someone who is healthy and well adjusted, to me that's an honest depiction of the human spirit. Rey had a lot of things that she was battling from an early age. A feeling of incompletion, inadequacy because of her mother's unrealistic representation of love. Her father's traumatic death. Everything was caging her in, screaming at her to stay away from vulnerable emotions. She really was quite fascinating, and as a flawed character one that showed human frailties pretty realistically. Did I think her healing process could have been longer based on her issues? Well, I'd have to say yes. After two short weeks, she was well on her way to recovering from all her issues.
To sum things up, I was very impressed with this author's ability to hook me into this story. She's come up with a very thought provoking story, something that wouldn't leave my mind for days after finishing. After reading about the group of friends that Rey gets to know, I want to know more about them too. I will most definitely be checking out the previous books in the series. I would recommend this book to anyone looking for a second-chance book with flawed characters and plenty of feels.
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November 10, 2016
FREE on Amazon US today (11/9/2016)
Stand-alone book 1. Spin off series to London Lovers.
BLURB:
My name is Reyna Miracle.
Even though a part of my name is Miracle, there’s nothing miraculous about me.
My body portrays the tales of my life.
Every feeling, every heartbreak, every emotion.
Marked. Inked. Stained.
A walking canvas of my messed up truth.
But there’s one confession I can’t put in a tattoo.
A confession that will kill me to tell, but my best friend died before I had the chance.
Now I’m left with him.
The only one who can hold me in the night and squeeze that spot on my neck that feels like my lifeline between sanity and chaos.
But we don’t work together.
We’re absolute poison for each other.
We’re a stifling, suffocating, sickness of darkness.
But I feel safe...because I’ve made an art of pushing people away.
Now he’s pushing back…
And making me believe...
Making me wonder...
Maybe, just maybe...
I could be the one.
FREE: https://www.amazon.com/Not-One-Lost-L...
FREEBIES are often good for MORE than one day. I have gathered all my FREEBIES on a special shelf: Kindle-freebies (currently over 600 books)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/list...
November 29, 2015
TITLE: Not The One
AUTHOR: Amy Daws
GENRE: Contemporary Romance
RELEASE DATE: December 08th, 2015
MY RATING: 4 STARS
Even good boys know how to be bad sometimes.
This will be my first time reading anything by this author but I kind of had to jump on it cause I lovers that cover then the synopsis kind of stuck out too!!
Flows effortlessly from past to present and very very easy to get lost within the pages, loving this authors writing style, the knack she has of grabbing ahold of you as you read about Reyna and Liam
PAST
Twenty three year old grad student Reyna strikes up a friendship with a girl named Marrisa whom is dating a guy named Liam who seems to have a knack at making Reyna open up about her childhood and the reasons why she's not in a relationship..
Liam has always been attractive but because he was in a relationship with Marisa, I never let my brain go there.
Straight away you get an undercurrent of attraction between Reyna & Liam
PRESENT
Then jumping into the now where she's working as a bartender
Three years ago, I was preparing to graduate with my masters from Oxford in business management alongside my best friend, Marisa, and her boyfriend, Liam
What a twisted cirle, two men, one her deceased best friends fiance the other her dead friends brother, such a complex heartbreaking story, nightmares that run wild in her sleep..
For what it's worth, I'm sorry. It feels like the worst two words I could say to you, but if I don't, I think I could die.
Hayden is bad for me. I'm even worse for him. We're both damaged and f*cked nearly unrecognizable.
The one character that I absolutely adored in this book was Frank, so flamboyant, had me giggling out loud at the shit that would spurt out of his mouth.
She was the best friend I ever had. She was the best sister too. It's been three years Hayden, When will it get any easier.
This book had me racing through the pages to see who she was going to end up with either Liam who she had to open her eyes and see that he was right in front of her or Hayden who just like her was broken and hurt..
December 8, 2015
✯✯✯✯1/2 Stars
“It’s a painful thing not living up to other people’s standards of you. It’s an even more painful thing when you’re not even surprised.”
We just knew this one was going to hurt and make us cry. And it did. Amy Daws’ writing in Not The One was absolutely beautiful and haunting as she effortlessly took us from past to present on a healing journey for both family, friends and lovers. It was gritty, raw and not very easy to read at times, as souls were bared and deep grown issues were dealt with after much tragedy. This was a journey for many characters all with a part to play in an interwoven story of grief, torment and love.
“The darkness is my home. It’s where I belong. Maybe forever.”
Reyna has always embraced pain and suffering; she knows not of any other feeling. It’s as if she needs it to breathe and live – often wallowing in it – basking in it even. It felt quite twisted and ugly but everything can have beauty once you scratch the surface. Layers of self-loathing, grief and guilt are not easy to shed. They become your protection and second coat. It takes the right person to help you unravel and discover the soft, loving and beautiful underneath years of struggling with a guilt complex and striving to lose the label of being a miracle.
“I thought I could make you happy, but Christ, I can’t be the reason for all this. This isn’t happiness.”
Reyna is the centre of this story with characters from previous books orbiting and playing significant roles. In a story of healing this was as much Hayden and Liam’s book as it was Reyna’s. Between Hayden and Liam we lost many tears. What is it about a truly broken man we just can’t bear? Perhaps as women we identify more with the heroine as a fellow woman who may have been through similar pain and sorrow we easily slip into that role by connecting. Yet to feel and experience a man’s honest and devastating pain and misery is just so overwhelmingly heart-breaking. Who knows – but we felt it every step of the way.
“Even though I’m still fucking madly in love with you, I won’t…I refuse to wait forever.”
In a story that examined the true nature of relationships, demands and expectations as well as honesty, friendships and love, the power of Amy Daws writing truly shone. This has to be our favourite book by this Author as we felt her heart beat in every single page.
‘The worst part about healing is finding all the massive battle scars left behind.’
♥ ♥ ♥
♥ ♥ ♥
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December 7, 2015
✯✯✯✯1/2 Stars
“It’s a painful thing not living up to other people’s standards of you. It’s an even more painful thing when you’re not even surprised.”
We just knew this one was going to hurt and make us cry. And it did. Amy Daws’ writing in Not The One was absolutely beautiful and haunting as she effortlessly took us from past to present on a healing journey for both family, friends and lovers. It was gritty, raw and not very easy to read at times, as souls were bared and deep grown issues were dealt with after much tragedy. This was a journey for many characters all with a part to play in an interwoven story of grief, torment and love.
“The darkness is my home. It’s where I belong. Maybe forever.”
Reyna has always embraced pain and suffering; she knows not of any other feeling. It’s as if she needs it to breathe and live – often wallowing in it – basking in it even. It felt quite twisted and ugly but everything can have beauty once you scratch the surface. Layers of self-loathing, grief and guilt are not easy to shed. They become your protection and second coat. It takes the right person to help you unravel and discover the soft, loving and beautiful underneath years of struggling with a guilt complex and striving to lose the label of being a miracle.
“I thought I could make you happy, but Christ, I can’t be the reason for all this. This isn’t happiness.”
Reyna is the centre of this story with characters from previous books orbiting and playing significant roles. In a story of healing this was as much Hayden and Liam’s book as it was Reyna’s. Between Hayden and Liam we lost many tears. What is it about a truly broken man we just can’t bear? Perhaps as women we identify more with the heroine as a fellow woman who may have been through similar pain and sorrow we easily slip into that role by connecting. Yet to feel and experience a man’s honest and devastating pain and misery is just so overwhelmingly heart-breaking. Who knows – but we felt it every step of the way.
“Even though I’m still fucking madly in love with you, I won’t…I refuse to wait forever.”
In a story that examined the true nature of relationships, demands and expectations as well as honesty, friendships and love, the power of Amy Daws writing truly shone. This has to be our favourite book by this Author as we felt her heart beat in every single page.
‘The worst part about healing is finding all the massive battle scars left behind.’
♥ ♥ ♥
♥ ♥ ♥
Come say hi and follow us at:
✦ TotallybookedBlog
✦ TB on Facebook
✦ TB on Twitter
✦ TB on Pinterest
March 29, 2018
THIS IS A ME NOT YOU REVIEW!!
I started this one blind, I didn't know the blurb I just saw this cover in my list and started it.. I knew from experience that's not the best idea.. Some authors you just trust and then it doesn't matter, but with the ones you don't know it's a huge risk..
It had everything I hate.. I'll spoiler it for the ones that still want to read it. But I just need to rant a bit about this one.. It helps me move on..
I was so rooting for Hayden instead of for Liam.. I'm also a serious believer of "bro code" so this was a no from the start.. I will not continue this series and am not even curious to the other characters..
I started this one blind, I didn't know the blurb I just saw this cover in my list and started it.. I knew from experience that's not the best idea.. Some authors you just trust and then it doesn't matter, but with the ones you don't know it's a huge risk..
It had everything I hate.. I'll spoiler it for the ones that still want to read it. But I just need to rant a bit about this one.. It helps me move on..
I was so rooting for Hayden instead of for Liam.. I'm also a serious believer of "bro code" so this was a no from the start.. I will not continue this series and am not even curious to the other characters..
April 30, 2017
Un concentrato di tormento, rancore e senso di colpa che non lascia scampo.
Caro Hayden,
so bene che faccia starai facendo in questo momento. "Caro Hayden?!" starai pensando. "Amica, forse hai preso un abbaglio. Io non sono il protagonista di questo libro. Rey e Liam lo sono."
Non per me.
Mai per me.
Ho ben chiaro nella mente il momento in cui incappai in un estratto bollente di questo libro. Riguardava la scena del frigorifero. Riguardava TE. Ed è per TE che ho deciso di prendere il romanzo. È per TE che dissi: «Non appena finisco la TBR ufficiale, questo sarà il primo che leggerò». Ed è per TE che ho letto.
Mi sono innamorata di te fin dal primo istante. E fin dal primo istante ho capito che non eri tu.
Non eri il THE ONE.
Mi è importato? No. A me non importa mai. Non sono una pecora che va dove il pastore le dice di andare. Io seguo il mio cuore, la mia anima, e loro ti hanno scelto. TE, Hayden.
«Fammi dimenticare» sussurro nella sua bocca.
«Sempre». Mi morde il labbro inferiore e i nostri occhi si incontrano per un momento dolorosamente difficile. Così tante parole non dette passano tra di noi in quell'istante di silenzio. Così tanti ricordi. Così tanta sofferenza.
Entrambi smaniamo per dimenticare e scopiamo per ignorare.
Questo è ciò che ci facciamo l'una per l'altro.
Questo siamo bravi a fare... e nient'altro.
Nell'attimo in cui ti ho incontrato, ti ho compreso. Ti ho riconosciuto. Perché tu sei me e io sono te. Siamo uguali. Odiamo tutto, odiamo tutti. Ma amiamo una singola persona. Una persona che è veleno, per noi. Una persona che afferma di volerci bene, ma ci usa soltanto. Magari tiene davvero a noi, non sta mentendo, ma di certo non gliene frega assolutamente se ci uccide giorno dopo giorno.
«Non ti manco? Per niente? Tu mi manchi da impazzire. Mi sento come se fossi in lutto per due morti, invece di una. È come se tu fossi morta su di me due settimane fa. E ora ti vedo e mi si rivolta lo stomaco perché ti ho lasciata in quel modo!»
Anch'io ho amato Reyna, come te. C'è molto di me in lei e posso capire bene perché tu ti sia innamorato di lei.
Posso capire molto bene perché hai sperato fino all'ultimo che anche lei ti amasse.
Ma nessuno ama quelli come noi, non è così? Quelli cupi e tristi. Quelli a cui nessuno riesce ad avvicinarsi, a meno che loro non vedano qualcosa in te e ti lascino entrare. Solo un pochino. Solo per vedere se anche tu li abbandonerai o resterai. Combatterai.
Chi combatte per me e te, Hayden? Non chi vorremmo.
Ci cerchiamo in questo modo. Bramiamo la presenza l'uno dell'altro, non importa quanto sia tossica. È come una dipendenza.
Ho sofferto così tanto con te, Hayden. Per te. Ti guardavo fare quello che faccio io. Ti sentivo dire quello che dico io. Ti vedevo perdere come perdo io da diciotto anni. E quando hai fatto ciò che hai fatto, ti ho immaginato di fronte a me. «E tu sei pronta?» mi hai detto, e io ti ho fissato.
Non ancora.
«Quindi questa non è la prima volta che te lo scopi? Così va molto meglio. Dimmi... Marisa e Liam stavano insieme, quando te lo sei scopato la prima volta?»
Apparentemente, la mia faccia dà a Hayden la risposta che sospetta e lui scoppia a ridermi di nuovo in faccia. La vista mi si appanna per via delle lacrime. «Basta, Hayden. Sto solo cercando di essere migliore».
«E rimpiazzare me».
Vorrei dirti tante altre cose. Vorrei che fossi reale. Vorrei che fossi mio amico. Vorrei dirti che sei cento volte più speciale tu di qualsiasi altro ragazzo. Vorrei dirti che io ti avrei aspettato, se fossi stato il mio migliore amico. Vorrei dirti... vorrei dirti.
Vuoi essere mio amico?
«Ti prego, Hayden, sei il mio migliore amico. Non farlo. Io ti amo».
«Amore» ride. «È una parola divertente, detta da te. Non ami nemmeno te stessa».
So che hai un libro tutto tuo. Già... Amy ci ha dato un assaggio della tua anima gemella, verso la fine. Vedi il mio sorriso amaro? Sai perché sono arrabbiata. Furiosa. Non voglio, NON VOGLIO che tu vada via da me. Ti ho appena trovato... Non ti lascio andare. Voglio che resti con me, nel dolore e nel buio. Non puoi lasciarmi sola. Non lo farai, vero? Non dipende da te, lo so. È solo che... non è giusto. Non voglio guardarti essere felice, essere amato. Perché tu sei mio e io ti ho scelto.
Siamo compagni e non puoi abbandonarmi, quando sai perfettamente che nessuno ha in programma di scrivere un lieto fine per me.
Non lasciarmi.
Lo hai già fatto.
Non esisti.
Posso tenerti nella mia immaginazione, così come ti ho conosciuto in questo libro?
Nella mia immaginazione non sono sola.
Ho te.
La tua oscurità è la mia.
Per sempre.
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November 29, 2015
I totally loved this offering from Amy Daws!
It is different to her other stories, there is more atmosphere, more angst, more... Everything! Her writing has definitely matured giving this story a depth and texture that kept me hooked.
An easy 5 stars from me!
It is different to her other stories, there is more atmosphere, more angst, more... Everything! Her writing has definitely matured giving this story a depth and texture that kept me hooked.
An easy 5 stars from me!
January 8, 2016
This was my first book by Amy Daws and I loved it! I have not read her London Lovers series, so I can say that this one can defenitely be read as a standalone. I was immediately drawn into this book from the beginning and loved the story. The book alternates between Reyna's days at university and present day. This can be tricky but works perfectly here.
This is Reyna and Liam's story. It is clear from the beginning of that Reyna has suffered terrible heartbreak and the pieces of her past slowly come together throughout the story. I absolutely loved the steamy scenes between Reyna and Liam and also adored the surprising insight into the mother-daughter relationship. There is obviously something causing an issue between Reyna and her mom and the revelation and resolution was quite a surprise to me.
"Life is a gift, Reyna. Mistakes happen.” My mother says, finally. Her blue eyes and fair skin shimmer from the overhead lamp light as she attempts to drive her point into me. “We can’t control life anymore than we can control the hands of time. They both continue without our intervention.”
I loved Liam as the main character here but also adored Hayden and his relationship with Reyna. While he ultimately wasn't good for her, their journey was their own and I truly felt heartbroken for his own personal struggles.
But make no mistake, this is Reyna and Liam's story. From the beginning, I knew they were irrevocably bound but I did not know if Reyna could ultimately overcome her issues with self-respect and her inability to to open up to others.
"You saw me better than I ever saw myself and you pushed me back. Just when everyone else would give up, you would push through. I want to be everything you see in me. I want my insides to match my outsides…perfectly imperfect…just as long as it’s with you."
NOT THE ONE is overall a very sexy and emotional book. The story took me by surprise and it is a refreshingly creative story. I love Amy Daws' writing style and look forward to reading more of her books!
flag1 like · Like · comment · see review
This is Reyna and Liam's story. It is clear from the beginning of that Reyna has suffered terrible heartbreak and the pieces of her past slowly come together throughout the story. I absolutely loved the steamy scenes between Reyna and Liam and also adored the surprising insight into the mother-daughter relationship. There is obviously something causing an issue between Reyna and her mom and the revelation and resolution was quite a surprise to me.
"Life is a gift, Reyna. Mistakes happen.” My mother says, finally. Her blue eyes and fair skin shimmer from the overhead lamp light as she attempts to drive her point into me. “We can’t control life anymore than we can control the hands of time. They both continue without our intervention.”
I loved Liam as the main character here but also adored Hayden and his relationship with Reyna. While he ultimately wasn't good for her, their journey was their own and I truly felt heartbroken for his own personal struggles.
But make no mistake, this is Reyna and Liam's story. From the beginning, I knew they were irrevocably bound but I did not know if Reyna could ultimately overcome her issues with self-respect and her inability to to open up to others.
"You saw me better than I ever saw myself and you pushed me back. Just when everyone else would give up, you would push through. I want to be everything you see in me. I want my insides to match my outsides…perfectly imperfect…just as long as it’s with you."
NOT THE ONE is overall a very sexy and emotional book. The story took me by surprise and it is a refreshingly creative story. I love Amy Daws' writing style and look forward to reading more of her books!
flag1 like · Like · comment · see review
January 8, 2016
My Rating:
4.5
Favorite Quotes:
“Needs are always necessary. Wants have a way of surprising you.”
“Sometimes nice guys just have to be bad if they want something this hard.”
“If he wants to fight dirty, he’s going to lose. I’m the queen of filth. And I’ve been yielding my words as weapons for years.”
“Frank vouched for this doctor, but upon meeting him, I’m not so sure. He looks like Doogie Howser and Mario Lopez had a love child and that love child was entering his junior year in high school.”
“Oxford, I’m British. We don’t hug. We do posh air kisses on the cheeks and even that is only because we’re trying to be pompous.”
“I don’t want to miss another second with you. I want to make up for lost time. I want to make up for missed chances. I want what I’ve always known we could be.”
“Reyna Miracle Miller, we had a rocky start, an even rockier middle, but I want to have an incredible finish.”
“Oxford, you slapper! I can practically hear your naughty thoughts screaming at me!”
My Review:
I know I listed too many favorite quotes, and that is still after I pared them down… I love Amy Daws – but she nearly killed me while reading Not The One. Seriously - I am no fan of angst so I was in abject misery! Had I not trusted or previously worshipped at the altar of Ms. Daws’ mad skills, I would probably have pulled a runner and stopped reading. Thankfully, I stuck with it as the comic relief and ridiculousness of Frank more than makes up for the moroseness, heinous behavior, and emotional instability of Reyna. Reyna has to be one of the most annoying and least likable characters out there. She is caustic on a good day, and generally snide, cruel, and deliberately hurtful to those who only want to help her. She seems to have been on a life-long path of self-loathing, insecurity, hostility, and destruction. While she is fully aware that she is emotionally disturbed - she doesn’t do anything about it until it is almost too late and she has alienated everyone in the most painful manner possible.
Then there is Frank – I unequivocally adore Frank. He is always the brightest spot in all the London Lovers books. He knows and is exactly what others need and when they need it. His wardrobe choices and flamboyant character provide the much needed and most welcomed hits of levity that breeze through like a breath of fresh air. Please Ms. Daws, for your next book, let it be all about Frank!
4.5
Favorite Quotes:
“Needs are always necessary. Wants have a way of surprising you.”
“Sometimes nice guys just have to be bad if they want something this hard.”
“If he wants to fight dirty, he’s going to lose. I’m the queen of filth. And I’ve been yielding my words as weapons for years.”
“Frank vouched for this doctor, but upon meeting him, I’m not so sure. He looks like Doogie Howser and Mario Lopez had a love child and that love child was entering his junior year in high school.”
“Oxford, I’m British. We don’t hug. We do posh air kisses on the cheeks and even that is only because we’re trying to be pompous.”
“I don’t want to miss another second with you. I want to make up for lost time. I want to make up for missed chances. I want what I’ve always known we could be.”
“Reyna Miracle Miller, we had a rocky start, an even rockier middle, but I want to have an incredible finish.”
“Oxford, you slapper! I can practically hear your naughty thoughts screaming at me!”
My Review:
I know I listed too many favorite quotes, and that is still after I pared them down… I love Amy Daws – but she nearly killed me while reading Not The One. Seriously - I am no fan of angst so I was in abject misery! Had I not trusted or previously worshipped at the altar of Ms. Daws’ mad skills, I would probably have pulled a runner and stopped reading. Thankfully, I stuck with it as the comic relief and ridiculousness of Frank more than makes up for the moroseness, heinous behavior, and emotional instability of Reyna. Reyna has to be one of the most annoying and least likable characters out there. She is caustic on a good day, and generally snide, cruel, and deliberately hurtful to those who only want to help her. She seems to have been on a life-long path of self-loathing, insecurity, hostility, and destruction. While she is fully aware that she is emotionally disturbed - she doesn’t do anything about it until it is almost too late and she has alienated everyone in the most painful manner possible.
Then there is Frank – I unequivocally adore Frank. He is always the brightest spot in all the London Lovers books. He knows and is exactly what others need and when they need it. His wardrobe choices and flamboyant character provide the much needed and most welcomed hits of levity that breeze through like a breath of fresh air. Please Ms. Daws, for your next book, let it be all about Frank!
Read
April 16, 2016Due to horrible time I had with this story and this being a it’s me, not you kind of case, I will not rate this book.
I think I should’ve dnf-ed it and this is why.
Being completely honest, this book was not for me at all. I had an awful time with the main lead, Rey. There were a lot of parts where I had to look away and skip the page. I literally couldn’t bring myself to read them –and I’m not saying this is a terrible book nor the girl doesn’t improve but it affected me in a very personal and triggering way.
Like I said in one of my updates: it hit way too close to home for me and I was not looking for this kind of content.
I wasn’t comfortable throughout this reading at all and I had to put the book a way several times and take breaks between pages until the end.
The writing style was your usual contemporary NA and it was cool. The author didn’t go over the top but she wasn’t dull or anything like that.
I honestly have no right to give an opinion on this one, I’m really sorry.
I think I should’ve dnf-ed it and this is why.
Being completely honest, this book was not for me at all. I had an awful time with the main lead, Rey. There were a lot of parts where I had to look away and skip the page. I literally couldn’t bring myself to read them –and I’m not saying this is a terrible book nor the girl doesn’t improve but it affected me in a very personal and triggering way.
Like I said in one of my updates: it hit way too close to home for me and I was not looking for this kind of content.
I wasn’t comfortable throughout this reading at all and I had to put the book a way several times and take breaks between pages until the end.
The writing style was your usual contemporary NA and it was cool. The author didn’t go over the top but she wasn’t dull or anything like that.
I honestly have no right to give an opinion on this one, I’m really sorry.
January 4, 2016
Thank you to the author, Amy Daws, for gifting me with a copy of Not the One in exchange for an honest review!
I have to say, I thoroughly enjoyed this book. From the romance to the mental issues that characters had to work through to just regular life drama. Let's start with the romance.
The romance is pretty central to this book. The book displays perfectly what a good relationship and what a not-so-good relationship look like side by side (Reyna and Liam vs. Reyna and Hayden). What I love about the romance the most is that fact that the author kept it from developing into a love triangle. While it could be seen that way at one point in the middle of the book, I beg to differ. At that point, Reyna is trying to find herself and fix what she thinks is broken. She knows that her relationship with Hayden is toxic but she's not ready to love herself quite yet. Which leads us to our next topic.
The main theme and meat of this book is the journey of the mind and expectations of yourself. Reyna was born a preemie quadruplet and she was the only one to survive. Her father also died when she was very young and consequently, led her mother to 'smother' Reyna. Reyna then does everything she possibly can to show her mother she isn't perfect, which, obviously, goes south really fast. I really liked how Reyna recognized what was wrong and took steps to fix it before it was too late. The ending was so wonderful and I wouldn't have it any other way. One comment I do have about Reyna's issues with herself: at times I was completely fed up with her. Her desire to be as far from perfect as possible was reiterated again and again and again and it felt like she was completely mental. Which could have been the point although it did get a bit annoying after a while.
Between the dramatic and dark scenes, there is everyday life. What I really like about this series is that you don't necessarily have to read them in order. Yes, it helps you understand the backstory of other characters and what was going on with them (all of the books take place in relatively the same time period) but it isn't entirely necessary. Frank and all of our other favorite characters from the other books (but especially Frank) make an appearance in this book. Have I mentioned how much I love Frank? He adds the perfect light contrast to buoy the book and keep it from dragging itself down in a dark spiral.
The Final Verdict:
This book is dark and gritty while still having it's light moments. I loved how the romance was developed as well as the main themes. However, Reyna's mantra of 'don't be perfect' left me exasperated at times.
4.5 stars
Quotes:
"'Hullo?' Alden's voice croaks through the phone line.
'Hi, is this Mr. Darkby?' I ask politely.
'Yes, bloody hell,' the phone muffles as I hear Liam's dad shout, 'Bertha... it's a bloody telemarketer from America again. Probably selling something. Should I tell them to get stuffed?'
'Alden!' I shout into the phone as I hear it muffle again."
"'I hate your tattoos. All of them,' she blurts. 'Even the black roses. I think they are dark and twisty and look like something Marilyn Manson would have.'
She covers her mouth in shock at her emotional outburst. My jaw drops and before I know it, we're both laughing and staring incredulously at each other. She pauses to wipe laughter tears from her eyes and I reach over and grab a tissue, handing it to her. I've never seen my mother laugh like this before.
'That was definitely something real,' I laugh and look over to Miguel for approval."
I have to say, I thoroughly enjoyed this book. From the romance to the mental issues that characters had to work through to just regular life drama. Let's start with the romance.
The romance is pretty central to this book. The book displays perfectly what a good relationship and what a not-so-good relationship look like side by side (Reyna and Liam vs. Reyna and Hayden). What I love about the romance the most is that fact that the author kept it from developing into a love triangle. While it could be seen that way at one point in the middle of the book, I beg to differ. At that point, Reyna is trying to find herself and fix what she thinks is broken. She knows that her relationship with Hayden is toxic but she's not ready to love herself quite yet. Which leads us to our next topic.
The main theme and meat of this book is the journey of the mind and expectations of yourself. Reyna was born a preemie quadruplet and she was the only one to survive. Her father also died when she was very young and consequently, led her mother to 'smother' Reyna. Reyna then does everything she possibly can to show her mother she isn't perfect, which, obviously, goes south really fast. I really liked how Reyna recognized what was wrong and took steps to fix it before it was too late. The ending was so wonderful and I wouldn't have it any other way. One comment I do have about Reyna's issues with herself: at times I was completely fed up with her. Her desire to be as far from perfect as possible was reiterated again and again and again and it felt like she was completely mental. Which could have been the point although it did get a bit annoying after a while.
Between the dramatic and dark scenes, there is everyday life. What I really like about this series is that you don't necessarily have to read them in order. Yes, it helps you understand the backstory of other characters and what was going on with them (all of the books take place in relatively the same time period) but it isn't entirely necessary. Frank and all of our other favorite characters from the other books (but especially Frank) make an appearance in this book. Have I mentioned how much I love Frank? He adds the perfect light contrast to buoy the book and keep it from dragging itself down in a dark spiral.
The Final Verdict:
This book is dark and gritty while still having it's light moments. I loved how the romance was developed as well as the main themes. However, Reyna's mantra of 'don't be perfect' left me exasperated at times.
4.5 stars
Quotes:
"'Hullo?' Alden's voice croaks through the phone line.
'Hi, is this Mr. Darkby?' I ask politely.
'Yes, bloody hell,' the phone muffles as I hear Liam's dad shout, 'Bertha... it's a bloody telemarketer from America again. Probably selling something. Should I tell them to get stuffed?'
'Alden!' I shout into the phone as I hear it muffle again."
"'I hate your tattoos. All of them,' she blurts. 'Even the black roses. I think they are dark and twisty and look like something Marilyn Manson would have.'
She covers her mouth in shock at her emotional outburst. My jaw drops and before I know it, we're both laughing and staring incredulously at each other. She pauses to wipe laughter tears from her eyes and I reach over and grab a tissue, handing it to her. I've never seen my mother laugh like this before.
'That was definitely something real,' I laugh and look over to Miguel for approval."
December 16, 2015
This was my first read by this author and I actually didn't realise it was part of a series but I don't think it hindered my enjoyment. Although I will say I am now tempted to go back and read about the other characters.
This was a book about a woman that couldn't move on from her past, was content to wallow in grief and resentment and self loathing. A woman that didn't think she deserved anything, especially love and pushed anyone and everyone away.
This was her journey, it wasn't pretty, she could be irritating and annoying at times but I could relate to a fair degree. (Full review to come)
This was a book about a woman that couldn't move on from her past, was content to wallow in grief and resentment and self loathing. A woman that didn't think she deserved anything, especially love and pushed anyone and everyone away.
This was her journey, it wasn't pretty, she could be irritating and annoying at times but I could relate to a fair degree. (Full review to come)
March 1, 2016
This book was fantastic
May 19, 2022
Leido en diagonal a partir del 50%. Que angustia de mujer, de historia, que horror
December 11, 2015
At first, I simply loved the cover—not only was it sexy, but a beautiful cover with color that just popped out. Then, I really had to think about this book when I was finished because it was more emotional than I thought it would be. That's not a bad thing at all, it just surprised me on how realistic it was.
Reyna "Rey" Miracle Miller has been to hell and just can't seem to get out of it. Not because she's tried, but because she feels that that's what she deserves! It was really hard reading how much Rey hated herself for doing what she did, or thought she did, and my two cents are that I just wanted her to forgive herself.
Liam has always had a thing for Rey, yet he never made it known until one night changed everything for them both. Instead of it being a wonderful change, it was a choice that left both of them heartbroken…
That fateful night made Rey who she is now and my goodness, it was heartbreaking to see her treat herself with so much hate. Now that Liam knows where Rey is at, he's making it his aim to get her back but things are never as easy as they seem.
One thing is for sure, when you really want something you have to fight for it like your life depends on it, and Liam did that despite Rey continually going against him. This really was not an easy story because of the self-loathing Rey felt for herself, yet when she finally saw the light she realized that she had the right to be loved like the next person. Have plenty of Kleenex and time on hand when you start reading Not the One because you will not be the same afterwards!
It made me think how there are individuals out there who have made grave mistakes and never really learned to forgive themselves, and my heart just breaks for them because we ALL make mistakes, big and small. Forgiving ourselves is something we all need to do because we are all human. ~ Kara, 4 Emotional stars
Reyna "Rey" Miracle Miller has been to hell and just can't seem to get out of it. Not because she's tried, but because she feels that that's what she deserves! It was really hard reading how much Rey hated herself for doing what she did, or thought she did, and my two cents are that I just wanted her to forgive herself.
Liam has always had a thing for Rey, yet he never made it known until one night changed everything for them both. Instead of it being a wonderful change, it was a choice that left both of them heartbroken…
That fateful night made Rey who she is now and my goodness, it was heartbreaking to see her treat herself with so much hate. Now that Liam knows where Rey is at, he's making it his aim to get her back but things are never as easy as they seem.
One thing is for sure, when you really want something you have to fight for it like your life depends on it, and Liam did that despite Rey continually going against him. This really was not an easy story because of the self-loathing Rey felt for herself, yet when she finally saw the light she realized that she had the right to be loved like the next person. Have plenty of Kleenex and time on hand when you start reading Not the One because you will not be the same afterwards!
It made me think how there are individuals out there who have made grave mistakes and never really learned to forgive themselves, and my heart just breaks for them because we ALL make mistakes, big and small. Forgiving ourselves is something we all need to do because we are all human. ~ Kara, 4 Emotional stars
December 11, 2015
Not the One was a fabulous read. It is much darker than other novels by Amy but the feels that you get from this book are off the chart! Definitely in my TOP 10 if not 5 for the year!
Reyna Mircle is a lost soul. She's been spinning since the death of her best friend and the betrayal that she was never able to confess to her. She's in a constant state of array and has finally decided enough is enough. The only problem is that she's been in this spiral with her best friend and he just keeps pulling her back, no matter how much she tries to stay a float.
Just as she thinks things are starting to turn around, in walks Liam back into her life, causing a new line of problems, Rey desperately wants to forget. But Liam is pushing...he knows the there is something hidden deep down in the both of them that they need to face, together.
Rey feels she's not worthy of love, but Liam is pushing harder than ever to show her she deserves that and so much more.
I seriously had a huge book hangover after reading this book. It's not all deep and down. We get comic relief in the form of our favorite redhead from the London Bound Series. This is a standalone book but in order to get a little more depth in the story line I would recommend reading the London Bound Series because they are fabulous reads and I adore Amy.
Must Read of 2015
Reyna Mircle is a lost soul. She's been spinning since the death of her best friend and the betrayal that she was never able to confess to her. She's in a constant state of array and has finally decided enough is enough. The only problem is that she's been in this spiral with her best friend and he just keeps pulling her back, no matter how much she tries to stay a float.
Just as she thinks things are starting to turn around, in walks Liam back into her life, causing a new line of problems, Rey desperately wants to forget. But Liam is pushing...he knows the there is something hidden deep down in the both of them that they need to face, together.
Rey feels she's not worthy of love, but Liam is pushing harder than ever to show her she deserves that and so much more.
I seriously had a huge book hangover after reading this book. It's not all deep and down. We get comic relief in the form of our favorite redhead from the London Bound Series. This is a standalone book but in order to get a little more depth in the story line I would recommend reading the London Bound Series because they are fabulous reads and I adore Amy.
Must Read of 2015
January 9, 2016
I received a ARC in exchange for a honest review.
5* read.
The first thing that caught my eye about this book was the cover. I fell in love with the cover and straight away needed to read this book. The covers so unique and beautiful and I actually want this girls tattoos. It know as a reader it really puts me off reading a book when I see the same well used cover picture that's on 20 other books. It just doesn't make me want to read the book, so to get a cover like this really made this book intriguing to me and couldn't wait to get stuck in.
Reyna was a troubled character who couldn't get past what shed done and was punishing herself because of it. Liam has always had a thing for Reyna but when one night changes both their lives forever how will they both get through it and will it be together?
I loved how much Liam fought for Reyna and as a reader at times I wanted to shake Reyna out of her own self hatred so she could see what she had in front of her, but I also realise this character needed to go through all the turmoil to get to where she needed to be.
Such a beautiful heartbreaking and emotional story that had me crying my eyes out at some points. I can't wait for more from this brilliant author.
5* read.
The first thing that caught my eye about this book was the cover. I fell in love with the cover and straight away needed to read this book. The covers so unique and beautiful and I actually want this girls tattoos. It know as a reader it really puts me off reading a book when I see the same well used cover picture that's on 20 other books. It just doesn't make me want to read the book, so to get a cover like this really made this book intriguing to me and couldn't wait to get stuck in.
Reyna was a troubled character who couldn't get past what shed done and was punishing herself because of it. Liam has always had a thing for Reyna but when one night changes both their lives forever how will they both get through it and will it be together?
I loved how much Liam fought for Reyna and as a reader at times I wanted to shake Reyna out of her own self hatred so she could see what she had in front of her, but I also realise this character needed to go through all the turmoil to get to where she needed to be.
Such a beautiful heartbreaking and emotional story that had me crying my eyes out at some points. I can't wait for more from this brilliant author.
November 6, 2016
UNPOPULAR OPINION ALERT!
I loathed this story. It made me react like this most of the time:
Different folks and different strokes and all that, but really, this story irritated me to no end and I loathed the heroine, I abhorred her actions and most of all, I detested her excuses for acting like a POS to everyone.
You can find my full thoughts on my book blog The Book Challengers.
I loathed this story. It made me react like this most of the time:
Different folks and different strokes and all that, but really, this story irritated me to no end and I loathed the heroine, I abhorred her actions and most of all, I detested her excuses for acting like a POS to everyone.
You can find my full thoughts on my book blog The Book Challengers.
May 4, 2016
Talk about killing me slowly! This book ripped me apart! But being wrecked never felt so good!!! Argh now I must read he rest of her books!!! WOW!!
September 14, 2022
Reyna was born a quad baby but none of her sisters survived. When she was five her father died of heart problems, and when she was in grad school her best friend passed away from a freak accident right before graduation. Before Marisa died Reyna slept with Marisa's boyfriend Liam and was hiding the fact that she was in love with him. She was never able to atone for what she did because of her friend's death and three years later is merely existing.
Liam who was in love with her was pushed out of her life and her former best friend's family has been haunted by Marisa's death since it happened. None of them truly ever finished grieving. Reyna has coped by sleeping with Marisa's younger brother Hayden and drinking with him. She considers him her best friend but knows their relationship is toxic and unhealthy. She takes a step to get her life back by getting a job at Club Taint and meets Frank there, the two of them becoming fast friends. She is also reunited with Liam who claims to still be in love with her and begs her for one weekend together with her so they can reignite their friendship. They end up sleeping together again and he admits he wanted that all along. She rejects him again even going so far as to hook back up with Hayden right after she returns home. Liam is gutted and Hayden is furious that she was with Liam and not long after Hayden tries to commit suicide.
Reyna finally decides she needs help and starts seeing a therapist and discovers she still loves and wants Liam but is it too late, has too much rejection caused him to give up on her.
I liked this book despite it being so very intense. I usually read romantic comedies, and this was definitely drama filled. I sympathized with Reyna a lot feeling like she wasn't enough and that she didn't deserve to be the one that survived. My heart still breaks for Hayden adn I am glad that he got some help, but also was glad he and Reyna didn't end up together. They were simply not right for each other. He didn't lift her up and challenger her in a healthy way like Liam did. I'm happy Liam found someone to be with after the events in 'A Broken Us' even though he did get hurt before things got better.
Liam who was in love with her was pushed out of her life and her former best friend's family has been haunted by Marisa's death since it happened. None of them truly ever finished grieving. Reyna has coped by sleeping with Marisa's younger brother Hayden and drinking with him. She considers him her best friend but knows their relationship is toxic and unhealthy. She takes a step to get her life back by getting a job at Club Taint and meets Frank there, the two of them becoming fast friends. She is also reunited with Liam who claims to still be in love with her and begs her for one weekend together with her so they can reignite their friendship. They end up sleeping together again and he admits he wanted that all along. She rejects him again even going so far as to hook back up with Hayden right after she returns home. Liam is gutted and Hayden is furious that she was with Liam and not long after Hayden tries to commit suicide.
Reyna finally decides she needs help and starts seeing a therapist and discovers she still loves and wants Liam but is it too late, has too much rejection caused him to give up on her.
I liked this book despite it being so very intense. I usually read romantic comedies, and this was definitely drama filled. I sympathized with Reyna a lot feeling like she wasn't enough and that she didn't deserve to be the one that survived. My heart still breaks for Hayden adn I am glad that he got some help, but also was glad he and Reyna didn't end up together. They were simply not right for each other. He didn't lift her up and challenger her in a healthy way like Liam did. I'm happy Liam found someone to be with after the events in 'A Broken Us' even though he did get hurt before things got better.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 18, 2016
Woah… Ok so that was a complete whirlwind of emotions!
So I’m going to get this started with a little facts about the series than dive in to the review portion. Not The One is categorized as the 4th book in The London Lovers series. I wouldn’t necessarily say its required to read the other books in the series to pick this one up but it would be Highly Recommended to read in order to fully appreciate the humor and relationships between all of the characters. I would HIGHLY recommend reading the 3rd book, London Bound, before you read this one! These story both have a plot line in common and take place around the same time but follow different characters. Reading both fills in the holes to the story and answers questions you might of had if you hadn’t read both.
Now that I gotten that huge disclaimer out of the way. I really want to talk about the really awesome parts of this story!
Not The One, is the story of Reyna and Liam. There story is filled with angst and heart wrenching moments. Both of them are dealing with unresolved feelings from 3 years ago. There story was so intense and tugged all the feelings from that I was exhausted when I finished reading it.
The story is told in alternating timelines present time and 3 years ago. Slowly the life altering moment that lead Reyna to The Taint bar are revealed and then the story really starts to pick up. I really don’t want to give away any plot so I’ll point you in the direction of the synopsis is you want to see a little about what this is about.
Reyna is are main character in this story. She was a really interesting character to read about. She could be really bold, sarcastic, and unique. However, she was so full of self hatred and guilt and you just wanted to keep reading to find out why she was being so hard on herself and what could of lead to her feeling so low. She was so relatable and there was no quick fix, she didn’t just magically get well she had to fight for it and what she wanted.
Liam was also such a amazing love interest! I love how well matched they felt. He was the perfect match for Reyna. I’m really glad he was the love interest in this book. I really wanted to know what his story was when we first met him in book 2. Like like Reyna 3 years ago has been haunting him and its more than time for it to get resolved.
After reading so much from the same author I tend to worry that new characters voices are going to start blending together. However Amy is really great at making all of her characters voice read so different while keeping the characters feeling fresh and real. Reyna didn’t sound like Finley or Leslie. She had her own unique traits and personality that really mashed with the crew that we’ve already meet in the past.
That leads us into my favorite thing about this series. All of the amazing supporting characters. We get to see all of the characters that were present in the books before this one. Who were so great and always so much fun to see again. There such a great group who really love each other.
Frank is in his own category in this series. He feels like everyone’s guardian angel and I WANT a Frank for myself so much! Frank is such a pivotal character in this series and I’m so happy to see him and he got such a great role in Reyna’s story! I love seeing him being such a major person to all of the others. Let’s just be real Frank Time is the Best Time!!!!
I feel like I’m jumping around a lot in this review but I really want to mention how great Amy used professional help. It would of been so easy to of cut corners and “magically” fixed Reyna and Liam and but she didn’t she actually took the time let the characters go through therapy and learn from it. They had to grow and proof themselves to each other and it made them so much more believable and lovable.
Hayden was also such a great addition to this story I’m really excited to see Hayden’s story. I really want to peer inside his head and see what he was thinking. We got a little bit of a glimpse of who is might end up with and it has really peeked my curiosities. I will be waiting really (im)patiently to see how his story unfolds.
The London Lovers series was one of the greatest finds for me in 2015 and will no doubt be amazing in 2016. Its one I recommend to everyone to give a shot. Each book deals with really different subjects and the characters are really lovely to get to know. There is a perfect blend of drama, humor, romance, and heat that I think you guys would really appreciate. If you haven’t given this series a shot yet you really should.
~Arya
So I’m going to get this started with a little facts about the series than dive in to the review portion. Not The One is categorized as the 4th book in The London Lovers series. I wouldn’t necessarily say its required to read the other books in the series to pick this one up but it would be Highly Recommended to read in order to fully appreciate the humor and relationships between all of the characters. I would HIGHLY recommend reading the 3rd book, London Bound, before you read this one! These story both have a plot line in common and take place around the same time but follow different characters. Reading both fills in the holes to the story and answers questions you might of had if you hadn’t read both.
Now that I gotten that huge disclaimer out of the way. I really want to talk about the really awesome parts of this story!
Not The One, is the story of Reyna and Liam. There story is filled with angst and heart wrenching moments. Both of them are dealing with unresolved feelings from 3 years ago. There story was so intense and tugged all the feelings from that I was exhausted when I finished reading it.
The story is told in alternating timelines present time and 3 years ago. Slowly the life altering moment that lead Reyna to The Taint bar are revealed and then the story really starts to pick up. I really don’t want to give away any plot so I’ll point you in the direction of the synopsis is you want to see a little about what this is about.
Reyna is are main character in this story. She was a really interesting character to read about. She could be really bold, sarcastic, and unique. However, she was so full of self hatred and guilt and you just wanted to keep reading to find out why she was being so hard on herself and what could of lead to her feeling so low. She was so relatable and there was no quick fix, she didn’t just magically get well she had to fight for it and what she wanted.
Liam was also such a amazing love interest! I love how well matched they felt. He was the perfect match for Reyna. I’m really glad he was the love interest in this book. I really wanted to know what his story was when we first met him in book 2. Like like Reyna 3 years ago has been haunting him and its more than time for it to get resolved.
After reading so much from the same author I tend to worry that new characters voices are going to start blending together. However Amy is really great at making all of her characters voice read so different while keeping the characters feeling fresh and real. Reyna didn’t sound like Finley or Leslie. She had her own unique traits and personality that really mashed with the crew that we’ve already meet in the past.
That leads us into my favorite thing about this series. All of the amazing supporting characters. We get to see all of the characters that were present in the books before this one. Who were so great and always so much fun to see again. There such a great group who really love each other.
Frank is in his own category in this series. He feels like everyone’s guardian angel and I WANT a Frank for myself so much! Frank is such a pivotal character in this series and I’m so happy to see him and he got such a great role in Reyna’s story! I love seeing him being such a major person to all of the others. Let’s just be real Frank Time is the Best Time!!!!
I feel like I’m jumping around a lot in this review but I really want to mention how great Amy used professional help. It would of been so easy to of cut corners and “magically” fixed Reyna and Liam and but she didn’t she actually took the time let the characters go through therapy and learn from it. They had to grow and proof themselves to each other and it made them so much more believable and lovable.
Hayden was also such a great addition to this story I’m really excited to see Hayden’s story. I really want to peer inside his head and see what he was thinking. We got a little bit of a glimpse of who is might end up with and it has really peeked my curiosities. I will be waiting really (im)patiently to see how his story unfolds.
The London Lovers series was one of the greatest finds for me in 2015 and will no doubt be amazing in 2016. Its one I recommend to everyone to give a shot. Each book deals with really different subjects and the characters are really lovely to get to know. There is a perfect blend of drama, humor, romance, and heat that I think you guys would really appreciate. If you haven’t given this series a shot yet you really should.
~Arya
December 12, 2015
FANTASTIC! Her BEST London Lovers yet!
As with all previous Amy Daws’ books-this was eagerly awaited by me-I pre-ordered it (I don’t often pre-order) and had to start it straight away-even though I was in the middle of something else! Even though it was 12.30am! And you know what-I could have stayed up ALL NIGHT! It would have been SO worth it! I was straight in, there was no excess wordiness, just straight to ACTION! And I didn't want to come back out again for a long while! It begins with an excellent, quick, snappy first chapter with so much in it. It grips you instantly. Absolutely amazing presentation-the best yet! What an amazing cover-how could you resist the book! The main character Reyna seems confused and pretty mixed up, she's holding things back-excellent for a book as you just want to know what it is! There were lots of questions arising, keeping me interested. I just have to wonder-how does she do it? What is her secret? I read so many books and Amy's are-so special! You just have to stop what you're doing-and just read-and read!!!! This is very intriguing and emotional, smoking hot too! Even early on I was wondering was this my favourite London Lovers book? So far it had been ‘London Bound’ but this is absolutely on a par with it-or possibly even better. The structure is such that we have intriguing scenes in the present and then it keeps going back to three years ago where they were at Oxford University. Little details eke out gradually. It was absolutely EXPLOSIVE and I loved it. Even very early on I had decided it was definitely five stars for me. So much power, depth and emotion in those words. This is a standalone novel yet your ‘mates’ from the other London Lovers books are there in and amongst. It's like coming home. This is one of my favourite series and I can't wait for each new addition to it. This is Amy Daws on top form and is an absolute luxury read for me. I like how a piece of music listened to is mentioned, named, the artist named etc. Being a musician, stuff like this matters to me so I looked it up on YouTube, you can really get the idea of the atmosphere then rather than if the writer had merely said that the character had put some music on. After all the angst there is a welcome lighter interlude with Frank. Then more powerful stuff again. This book is so full of surprises. You just can't leave it alone-I should have been doing so much today as it's the lead-up to Christmas-I've done nowt! (Except read this!). This was certainly tough and powerful stuff, an amazing read. I was gripped, went to hell and back with the characters and lived the book whilst I read it. I was totally absorbed in it and didn't want to come out! I really hope you're writing the next one NOW Amy Daws!!!! Well, phew!!! I finished it! After serious lack of dusting, cleaning etc. for the past few days-for which I totally blame the author-this was a FANTASTIC read!-so I'll let her off re the housework! Intriguing, gripping, sexy, agonising and lovely. All of these things. THE BEST best of Amy Daws.
As with all previous Amy Daws’ books-this was eagerly awaited by me-I pre-ordered it (I don’t often pre-order) and had to start it straight away-even though I was in the middle of something else! Even though it was 12.30am! And you know what-I could have stayed up ALL NIGHT! It would have been SO worth it! I was straight in, there was no excess wordiness, just straight to ACTION! And I didn't want to come back out again for a long while! It begins with an excellent, quick, snappy first chapter with so much in it. It grips you instantly. Absolutely amazing presentation-the best yet! What an amazing cover-how could you resist the book! The main character Reyna seems confused and pretty mixed up, she's holding things back-excellent for a book as you just want to know what it is! There were lots of questions arising, keeping me interested. I just have to wonder-how does she do it? What is her secret? I read so many books and Amy's are-so special! You just have to stop what you're doing-and just read-and read!!!! This is very intriguing and emotional, smoking hot too! Even early on I was wondering was this my favourite London Lovers book? So far it had been ‘London Bound’ but this is absolutely on a par with it-or possibly even better. The structure is such that we have intriguing scenes in the present and then it keeps going back to three years ago where they were at Oxford University. Little details eke out gradually. It was absolutely EXPLOSIVE and I loved it. Even very early on I had decided it was definitely five stars for me. So much power, depth and emotion in those words. This is a standalone novel yet your ‘mates’ from the other London Lovers books are there in and amongst. It's like coming home. This is one of my favourite series and I can't wait for each new addition to it. This is Amy Daws on top form and is an absolute luxury read for me. I like how a piece of music listened to is mentioned, named, the artist named etc. Being a musician, stuff like this matters to me so I looked it up on YouTube, you can really get the idea of the atmosphere then rather than if the writer had merely said that the character had put some music on. After all the angst there is a welcome lighter interlude with Frank. Then more powerful stuff again. This book is so full of surprises. You just can't leave it alone-I should have been doing so much today as it's the lead-up to Christmas-I've done nowt! (Except read this!). This was certainly tough and powerful stuff, an amazing read. I was gripped, went to hell and back with the characters and lived the book whilst I read it. I was totally absorbed in it and didn't want to come out! I really hope you're writing the next one NOW Amy Daws!!!! Well, phew!!! I finished it! After serious lack of dusting, cleaning etc. for the past few days-for which I totally blame the author-this was a FANTASTIC read!-so I'll let her off re the housework! Intriguing, gripping, sexy, agonising and lovely. All of these things. THE BEST best of Amy Daws.
November 30, 2015
ARC received for an honest review
I have read all of Ms Daws London Lovers series, so I was excited to read Not The One.
You can read this as a standalone, as they characters from the previous books play only minor secondary roles in Not The One - but I would still go back and read the others!
I knew from reading the synopsis that this was going to be a darker book than the LL series, but wow! It was so much more!
Reyna and Liam's story is not an easy one to read. It is highly emotional, taking you to the highest of highs to the lowest of lows, all within one rollercoaster of a story. As well as a story of love, it is a story of sadness, regret and guilt. Self loathing. But also of self discovery and learning to love oneself.
It is not a hearts and flowers kind of story. It is darker, grittier than all that. If you don't shed a tear at least once whilst reading, you are stronger than I am.
I felt a deep connection with Reyna. I have felt the self loathing, self doubt, the I am not good enough.
But all I wanted was for Reyna to find her way out of her mind and find her HEA.
I adored that we got more of the other couples from the other books, and that my favourite ginger, Frank, got a bigger part to play. I loved how this interweaved itself into the previous stories (but not so much that you have to have read them).
Thank you Ms Daws for a beautiful, heartfelt story. I can't wait for what you give us next.
I have read all of Ms Daws London Lovers series, so I was excited to read Not The One.
You can read this as a standalone, as they characters from the previous books play only minor secondary roles in Not The One - but I would still go back and read the others!
I knew from reading the synopsis that this was going to be a darker book than the LL series, but wow! It was so much more!
Reyna and Liam's story is not an easy one to read. It is highly emotional, taking you to the highest of highs to the lowest of lows, all within one rollercoaster of a story. As well as a story of love, it is a story of sadness, regret and guilt. Self loathing. But also of self discovery and learning to love oneself.
It is not a hearts and flowers kind of story. It is darker, grittier than all that. If you don't shed a tear at least once whilst reading, you are stronger than I am.
I felt a deep connection with Reyna. I have felt the self loathing, self doubt, the I am not good enough.
But all I wanted was for Reyna to find her way out of her mind and find her HEA.
I adored that we got more of the other couples from the other books, and that my favourite ginger, Frank, got a bigger part to play. I loved how this interweaved itself into the previous stories (but not so much that you have to have read them).
Thank you Ms Daws for a beautiful, heartfelt story. I can't wait for what you give us next.
December 21, 2015
Title: Not the One
Author: Amy Daws
Genre: Contemporary Romance, Coming of Age
Series or Standalone: Series (London Lovers #4)
Rating: ★★★★1/2 Stars (Rounded to 5* for Amazon and Goodreads)
Review
Not the One is my first book by this author and despite it being part of a series, it reads as a standalone. For me personally, I didn’t need the other books in the series in order to enjoy this one as other than a few instances where those prior characters made appearances, they didn’t affect the story in terms of how it played out.
What I noticed very early on with this story was that while you could see shades of romance here, both in her time with Hayden and also the prior relationship and future relationship with Liam, it wasn’t what this book at its core was completely about.
It was a book drenched in learning how to heal after a loss. How to heal after being dealt multiple blows and a true coming of age tale. Because without the journey that Reyna had to take, there would never been a romance worth rooting for here. So swept up in this story and her digging herself out of the darkness was I that the romance, her overall happiness in terms of relationships with the one she’s meant for definitely fell into the background.
I wanted her to heal. To see that she was better than she believed herself to be (something that more than one character attempted to get her to see both in the past and the present in this) and that she was indeed deserving of happiness despite the transgressions that took place in her past that made her believe otherwise.
This story flows quite well, despite being told from the past and the present and I do believe just the right amount of detail was given throughout to get everything across in the way that it was meant to.
I connected heavily with Reyna and despite not exactly being a fan of some of the situations she finds herself in, did understand her reasoning and motivations throughout. I could sympathize with her, much like I also could with Liam and Hayden. They all had history, a loss that connected them all and one that had them all acting in ways that weren’t exactly the healthiest for them, but were very believable.
The journey that takes place here worked for me on all levels. It happened in its due time, often times things having to get a whole lot worse before they could get better and by the time I turned the last page, I do believe I got the ending for Reyna and all others involved that I was after.
It was a truly emotive read and one that I am glad that I took the chance on.
My thanks to the author and all others involved for letting me read this.
July 19, 2019
🎧 Audio Review 🎧
2nd Listen
I listened to all the Harris Brothers books last week and decided to listen to the London Lovers series when I was done. When I got to this book I was surprised to see I had already listened to it 2 years ago. I didn't remember it at all and have no idea why I would listen to only book 4 and I almost didn't re-listen after reading my original review, I thought why listen again if I didn't love it the 1st time but in the end I decided to give it a new shot now that I had the back story on all these characters and let me tell you, It made all the difference! Having the character backgrounds, this book was so different for me. I felt so much more for Reyna & Liam and was so happy to see them find their way to each other. And Hayden.... seriously I never imagined Hayden this way when I listened to Harris Brothers, I couldn't have imagined him being this damaged in the past and I am seriously looking forward to Vi & Hayden's book more than ever now!
***Audio Review 3/22/2016***
I had a hard time rating this book. I enjoyed the writing style and the story line but I did have a few issues with this book. The characters for one were very hard to connect with for me. Reyna was way to much a drama queen for me. I get that she knew loss but it felt like an excuse to be damaged too me (especially the whole sisters thing). She was a love tornado, taking down every man in her wake and turning a blind eye to their feelings claiming no one could love her. Her now best friend Hayden is an alcoholic with issues stemming from his sisters death. They are a terrible pair, they fed into each others problems and she is blind to all the issues their friendship creates for him especially. Liam is her "dead best friends fiancé", she has a history with him and she runs, crushing him when he needs her most. I loved his character even though he dealt with way more crap then I would have. In the end I love that all of these characters found their way and grew. Even though I had things I didn't like, this book did exactly what a book should, it sucked me in from page one and I didn't stop until it was over. The story line, the writing, the narration and the great cover is why I gave it 4 stars.
The narration was good. At first I didn't think I'd enjoy the accents but I got used to them very quickly.
2nd Listen
I listened to all the Harris Brothers books last week and decided to listen to the London Lovers series when I was done. When I got to this book I was surprised to see I had already listened to it 2 years ago. I didn't remember it at all and have no idea why I would listen to only book 4 and I almost didn't re-listen after reading my original review, I thought why listen again if I didn't love it the 1st time but in the end I decided to give it a new shot now that I had the back story on all these characters and let me tell you, It made all the difference! Having the character backgrounds, this book was so different for me. I felt so much more for Reyna & Liam and was so happy to see them find their way to each other. And Hayden.... seriously I never imagined Hayden this way when I listened to Harris Brothers, I couldn't have imagined him being this damaged in the past and I am seriously looking forward to Vi & Hayden's book more than ever now!
***Audio Review 3/22/2016***
I had a hard time rating this book. I enjoyed the writing style and the story line but I did have a few issues with this book. The characters for one were very hard to connect with for me. Reyna was way to much a drama queen for me. I get that she knew loss but it felt like an excuse to be damaged too me (especially the whole sisters thing). She was a love tornado, taking down every man in her wake and turning a blind eye to their feelings claiming no one could love her. Her now best friend Hayden is an alcoholic with issues stemming from his sisters death. They are a terrible pair, they fed into each others problems and she is blind to all the issues their friendship creates for him especially. Liam is her "dead best friends fiancé", she has a history with him and she runs, crushing him when he needs her most. I loved his character even though he dealt with way more crap then I would have. In the end I love that all of these characters found their way and grew. Even though I had things I didn't like, this book did exactly what a book should, it sucked me in from page one and I didn't stop until it was over. The story line, the writing, the narration and the great cover is why I gave it 4 stars.
The narration was good. At first I didn't think I'd enjoy the accents but I got used to them very quickly.
December 23, 2015
Not The One is a standalone book in Amy Daws in London Lovers series. I became of fan of Amy's writing after reading her book she co-wrote with Sarah J Pepper. Amy's books appealed to me and when I had the chance to review this, I couldn't pass it up.
Amy sucked me in deeper with this book. I actually ended up buying every book she has out because of this book. That has not happened to me in a long time where I am that wowed by an author's writing.
But back to the book.....
Not The One is a very powerful book. It's not just about the romance, but it's about finding one's self; growing, healing and moving forward.
Reyna is the main focus of this book. She's always accepted pain and grief as second-nature to her. They've become a part of who she is and because of that, she tends to keep people at a distance. Even the few who do get close, there are only select parts she allows them to know about her.
Liam and Hayden play for very important and close roles to Reyna. Liam has always wanted to be there for Reyna, but when things got really hard and dark, he was the last person she wanted to be around her. Liam will only be pushed so far by her. Hayden and Reyna are two souls that connected but not in a healthy way. They understood one another and were able to keep one another close but never truly knowing the other.
You will feel everything that these characters go through. Their ups and downs, their fights & battles and their struggle to explain what they feel deep down. It's not always pretty and rainbows. This story will walk you through the honesty and rawness of true friendship and love.
Amy, I may have only read a few books by you, but this books proves how much of strong of writer you are. I think this is just the beginning of what we can expect from you.
I will definitely be reading the other books in this series and I am looking forward to the next book you bring us.
Amy sucked me in deeper with this book. I actually ended up buying every book she has out because of this book. That has not happened to me in a long time where I am that wowed by an author's writing.
But back to the book.....
Not The One is a very powerful book. It's not just about the romance, but it's about finding one's self; growing, healing and moving forward.
Reyna is the main focus of this book. She's always accepted pain and grief as second-nature to her. They've become a part of who she is and because of that, she tends to keep people at a distance. Even the few who do get close, there are only select parts she allows them to know about her.
Liam and Hayden play for very important and close roles to Reyna. Liam has always wanted to be there for Reyna, but when things got really hard and dark, he was the last person she wanted to be around her. Liam will only be pushed so far by her. Hayden and Reyna are two souls that connected but not in a healthy way. They understood one another and were able to keep one another close but never truly knowing the other.
You will feel everything that these characters go through. Their ups and downs, their fights & battles and their struggle to explain what they feel deep down. It's not always pretty and rainbows. This story will walk you through the honesty and rawness of true friendship and love.
Amy, I may have only read a few books by you, but this books proves how much of strong of writer you are. I think this is just the beginning of what we can expect from you.
I will definitely be reading the other books in this series and I am looking forward to the next book you bring us.
February 15, 2016
I'm really not sure how I feel about this story. In times I loved it, and in times I was legitimately upset and couldn't deal. I would almost hazard the thought of not approaching this as a romance, which I originally did. I wanted love and feels with a bit of a twisting story but oh boy that's not what I got.
I can't put my finger on what, but there's something about this entire thing that's not digesting well with me. I hurt. My heart and my mind just feel extremely heavy. Now don't go running away thinking it's the story, the resolution was wonderfully done. Like I said, I just can't put my finger on it. I contemplated not rating Not The One, but have to give Amy credit for a job well done. This is a story that deserves to be told.
This is Reyna's story. Hers and hers alone. Going between all of her brokenness and struggles and all of the bullshit she had to endure. And let me tell you, there was a ton of it. In aspects to her character, the story was really well done; her progress was fantastic.
I can't put my finger on what, but there's something about this entire thing that's not digesting well with me. I hurt. My heart and my mind just feel extremely heavy. Now don't go running away thinking it's the story, the resolution was wonderfully done. Like I said, I just can't put my finger on it. I contemplated not rating Not The One, but have to give Amy credit for a job well done. This is a story that deserves to be told.
Ever since finishing Not The One, I've had a song stuck in my head, so since then The Edge of Tonight by All Time Low on repeat and I think it's absolutely perfect for Reyna and Liam. Cheers.
Read
October 23, 2016BE WARNED SPOILERS AHEAD!!!!!!!!
I struggled with this one! It was well written but I just didn't like the main character Rey!
There was one scene when after spending time with the main hero Liam (he tells her he loves her after they sleep together) and she runs home and decides to "escape" the feelings she's having by fucking her best friend Hayden! After that I just kind of lost interest in what Rey was doing to be honest!
I struggled with this one! It was well written but I just didn't like the main character Rey!
There was one scene when after spending time with the main hero Liam (he tells her he loves her after they sleep together) and she runs home and decides to "escape" the feelings she's having by fucking her best friend Hayden! After that I just kind of lost interest in what Rey was doing to be honest!
December 22, 2015
*review to come.*
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