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Fearsome #2
Freedom
Putting away his notorious reputation as the wild guy with a womanizing past, Dylan Blackard is now on a new path, wanting to be the good guy his brother can stop worrying over. As long as he gives up his old vices-including women-he can keep himself on the straight and narrow and finally live up to everyone's expectations. However, obsessing about his lack of self-control is making Dylan one humorless, cranky hermit. That all changes, though, when his brother hires a new employee, the stunning Emma Keller. Emma, a spunky young woman from New Jersey, is intelligent, a smart aleck, and very determined to pull the sexy Dylan Blackard out of his self-imposed isolation. From the moment he meets her, he feels alive again, but Emma doesn't come as a gift with a pretty bow; she comes with major baggage. Will Emma be the tipping point that causes Dylan to regress into his past destructive behaviors . . . or will he actually pursue her for keeps?
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First published March 17, 2014
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About the author
S.A. Wolfe
51 books334 followersS. A. Wolfe lives with her family in New York City. She is a voracious reader of all types of fiction and passionate about writing. She loves connecting with readers on Facebook or email her at: sawolfe24@gmail.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 154 reviews
April 30, 2014
ARC provided by NETGALLEY in exchange for an honest review.
**May Contain Spoilers**
Story Rating 2 Stars
Hero Rating 3 Stars
Heroine Rating 2 Stars
Romance Rating 2 Stars
Heat Level 4 Stars
Overall Rating 2.6 Stars
I’m not exactly sure where to start with this review, therefore I’ll just post the synopsis to begin with…then get down to business after that.
Dylan Blackard is back in town and certain everyone knows his secrets.
Putting away his notorious reputation as the wild guy with a womanizing past, he’s now on a new path, wanting to be the good guy his brother can stop worrying over. As long as he gives up his old vices—including women—he can keep himself on the straight and narrow and finally live up to everyone’s expectations.
However, obsessing about his lack of self-control is making Dylan one humorless, cranky hermit. That all changes, though, when his brother hires a new employee, the stunning Emma Keller, who will be sharing an office with him and all of his tightly wound nerves.
Emma, a spunky young woman from New Jersey, isn’t about to feel sorry for Dylan and his situation. She is beyond distracting to him, and that is enough to turn his emotional balancing act upside down. Not only is she intelligent, and a smart aleck, she's also very determined to pull the sexy Dylan Blackard out of his self-imposed isolation.
From the moment he meets her, he feels alive again, but Emma doesn’t come as a gift with a pretty bow; she comes with major baggage—a family embedded in its own tumultuous history.
Will Emma be the tipping point that causes Dylan to regress into his past destructive behaviors…or will he actually pursue her for keeps?
Sounds great right? Totally.
Was it? Not so much. Which was a bummer because I loved the first book in this series (Jess and Carson’s story). This one just completely missed the mark for me. Way off. Way way way way way off.
First, what I didn’t like…
Lemme get out my list…
1. WTF happened to Dylan?! So, book one ended when we went to the rehab/mental facility and this one picks up shortly after he gets home, or a few months after. Whatever, don’t care. And I get he has/had mental issues but OMG it’s like he had a personality transplant.
He wasn’t fun.
He wasn’t flirty.
He was boring. Very very very boring.
Zero personality.
He ended up being the second worst character in this book. Emma was the first. She’s next.
2. Emma.
Oh. Em. Gee.
Could there be a more boring female lead for a book? And there was so much drama surrounding her. It was too much and too fake. Dylan’s issues would have been plenty to make this a story. The issues and drama surrounding Emma were completely unnecessary. I would have rather seen Dylan enter a super freaky tri-relationship with Carson and Jess.
3. How Emma reacted to the news of Dylan’s past relationship with Jess.
B.F.D – get over it. It was in the past when he was a little cray cray. And I didn’t like how Dylan talked about Jess and his regard towards her. It definitely wasn’t the “I think of her as a sister” or even a “she’s my sister-in-law” attitude. He was very indifferent to her and almost hateful when he talked about his time with her to Emma. I didn’t like how he basically stated he used her and didn’t care about it in the end. Pretty sure that’s not part of recovery for past actions and coming to terms with things you’ve done wrong. But whatever.
4. Again, the issues surrounding Emma and her family. They were unnecessary to the story. It would have been better if she didn’t have that stupid story line following her and the story was more focused on Dylan and his recovery..or whatever. There was plenty of drama there, or the potential for it. That was a big miss in the story. It was too cookie cutter on Dylan’s issues.
5. The insta-love.
Really? Dylan’s fixed and in love after knowing her for a week? The BEST part of the first book was the lack of insta-love. The story built slowly and organically and this story was rush rush rush…get to the DUMB drama with the mob and Emma being a wah-wah about Jess. Booooooooo.
6. All that. All that stuff mentioned, number 1-5. So, basically the whole book.
What I did like...
The writing.
Ok ok…so, I didn’t like the story or where the story went, or how it got there. BUT, I cannot deny that the author, S.A. Wolfe is a fantastic writer. I didn’t care about this story and I really didn’t want to finish it because I didn’t care, but I did because at least the writing was good. If I were a writer, I’d hope to write as well as she does. So you know, brava for that.
Oh! And the steam factor! Again, not as good as book one, but I think I am a bit bias at this point…but this book was pretty hot!
Conclusion….
While I did not care for this, my love for the first book would definitely have me reading more from this author in the future.
Could I recommend this book? Personally, no. But, someone else might love it. The subject matter was a bit darker and more serious…it just wasn’t for me.
I could recommend the first book though.
Here’s my casting for Dylan and Emma…
January 26, 2015
3.75 stars
April 27, 2014
2 1/2 out of 5 stars!
This book is book 2 in the Fearsome series but it can be read as a standalone.
This books begins with the character of Emma moving to a new town to start a new job and build a new life for herself away from the dodgy dealings that surround her father and life at home.
She seems strong, determined and quite likeable.
Then we meet Dylan who is the home-town boy who works in the family business and will be working closely with Emma. Dylan battles a mental illness everyday but in this book his illness is finally under control after a complete blow out in the previous book. He seems like a really nice guy, he's been through the ringer and he is just trying to get on with his life. I liked him.
When Dylan and Emma meet they are attracted. However, Dylan fears his reaction to Emma in case it will trigger a downward spiral so he is abrupt with her and generally quite rude. It's entertaining as you know it's all going to blow up in his face and it does.
Stuff goes down with Emma's ex and Dylan steps in like a white night, scoops her up, takes her home, feeds her, protects her and claims her... But it isn't as exciting as it sounds. Their relationship moves unbelievably fast and I just didn't believe it. Didn't feel it and when all is said and done they work together (same office etc), live together, socialise together... Doesn't seem healthy.
Anyway.
As the story moves on I liked Dylan more and more (despite bouts of idiocy) but I liked Emma less and less. This continued to the point I put the book down for a few days before I could finish it.
So what caused my initial like of Emma to turn into absolute disgust and borderline hatred? Well, step one was the way she was with her ex. She is completely unreasonable and unwilling to consider anyone else's feelings (cough Dylan cough) on the matter. Then there was the ridiculous blow up from Emma over a whole load of crap after a dinner party. So what Dylan dated his brothers wife before his brother married her and it was long before he even knew Emma existed! If his brother is over it what right does she have to get pissy about it? Especially after the crap with her ex. Talk about being totally unfair and blowing things out of proportion! She was a hag and even though she gets over herself a bit towards the end the author was never able to redeem her in my eyes.
If you are a new adult fan, like over-protective alpha guys and lots of drama in your books then you'll probably like it. If you don't then you probably wont. Either way, it's not a horrible book it just was not my cup of tea in the end (because of Emma).
This book is book 2 in the Fearsome series but it can be read as a standalone.
This books begins with the character of Emma moving to a new town to start a new job and build a new life for herself away from the dodgy dealings that surround her father and life at home.
She seems strong, determined and quite likeable.
Then we meet Dylan who is the home-town boy who works in the family business and will be working closely with Emma. Dylan battles a mental illness everyday but in this book his illness is finally under control after a complete blow out in the previous book. He seems like a really nice guy, he's been through the ringer and he is just trying to get on with his life. I liked him.
When Dylan and Emma meet they are attracted. However, Dylan fears his reaction to Emma in case it will trigger a downward spiral so he is abrupt with her and generally quite rude. It's entertaining as you know it's all going to blow up in his face and it does.
Stuff goes down with Emma's ex and Dylan steps in like a white night, scoops her up, takes her home, feeds her, protects her and claims her... But it isn't as exciting as it sounds. Their relationship moves unbelievably fast and I just didn't believe it. Didn't feel it and when all is said and done they work together (same office etc), live together, socialise together... Doesn't seem healthy.
Anyway.
As the story moves on I liked Dylan more and more (despite bouts of idiocy) but I liked Emma less and less. This continued to the point I put the book down for a few days before I could finish it.
So what caused my initial like of Emma to turn into absolute disgust and borderline hatred? Well, step one was the way she was with her ex. She is completely unreasonable and unwilling to consider anyone else's feelings (cough Dylan cough) on the matter. Then there was the ridiculous blow up from Emma over a whole load of crap after a dinner party. So what Dylan dated his brothers wife before his brother married her and it was long before he even knew Emma existed! If his brother is over it what right does she have to get pissy about it? Especially after the crap with her ex. Talk about being totally unfair and blowing things out of proportion! She was a hag and even though she gets over herself a bit towards the end the author was never able to redeem her in my eyes.
If you are a new adult fan, like over-protective alpha guys and lots of drama in your books then you'll probably like it. If you don't then you probably wont. Either way, it's not a horrible book it just was not my cup of tea in the end (because of Emma).
March 25, 2014
A copy was provided by the author for an honest review.
I'm not sure where to begin. I picked up Fearsome a few months ago when it was a sale item on Kindle. It sat staring at me on my list of "to be reads", waiting for me to take a chance. I read it in a matter of days (not easy with a 4 and 6 year old requiring attention from me all the time) and was immediately enamored of S.A. Wolfe, her writing, her story.
When I heard Freedom was coming, I was ecstatic. So excited not just for the follow up to the Blackard Boys and their story, but to continue to read more of the author's work. Have you ever had that connection to someone's writing where it's just wonderful to read what they wrote, no matter what it is?
Dylan and Emma's story is rich and powerful, much like that of Carson and Jess. In your heart you know they will come together in the end, but you also know that it won't be easy to get there, and for a book to encourage you to keep reading, even when the ending is inevitable, I think is quite a feat to accomplish.
Dylan and Emma, along with the other residents of Hera, make you want to find this little town in New York State, visit, and what the hell, move in. The sense of community, the sense of honesty that is portrayed in this town, draws you in and makes you want to love the characters. You can't help but love them actually. Even Robert in the end gained some sympathy from me.
The depiction of Dylan's mental illness was factual but sensitive. As someone who works in the mental health field, seeing a positive portrayal of the hope for recovery from mental illness is lovely to see. Most authors feed into the "craziness" of mental illness, the gratuitous look at the bad. But Dylan is a fighter. He is winning his battle against his disease, and it's inspiring and lovely.
In close, Freedom was a beautiful sequal to an equally beautiful book. I look forward to reading pretty much anything else S.A. Wolfe has to offer us, it's a pleasure to read her offerings.
I'm not sure where to begin. I picked up Fearsome a few months ago when it was a sale item on Kindle. It sat staring at me on my list of "to be reads", waiting for me to take a chance. I read it in a matter of days (not easy with a 4 and 6 year old requiring attention from me all the time) and was immediately enamored of S.A. Wolfe, her writing, her story.
When I heard Freedom was coming, I was ecstatic. So excited not just for the follow up to the Blackard Boys and their story, but to continue to read more of the author's work. Have you ever had that connection to someone's writing where it's just wonderful to read what they wrote, no matter what it is?
Dylan and Emma's story is rich and powerful, much like that of Carson and Jess. In your heart you know they will come together in the end, but you also know that it won't be easy to get there, and for a book to encourage you to keep reading, even when the ending is inevitable, I think is quite a feat to accomplish.
Dylan and Emma, along with the other residents of Hera, make you want to find this little town in New York State, visit, and what the hell, move in. The sense of community, the sense of honesty that is portrayed in this town, draws you in and makes you want to love the characters. You can't help but love them actually. Even Robert in the end gained some sympathy from me.
The depiction of Dylan's mental illness was factual but sensitive. As someone who works in the mental health field, seeing a positive portrayal of the hope for recovery from mental illness is lovely to see. Most authors feed into the "craziness" of mental illness, the gratuitous look at the bad. But Dylan is a fighter. He is winning his battle against his disease, and it's inspiring and lovely.
In close, Freedom was a beautiful sequal to an equally beautiful book. I look forward to reading pretty much anything else S.A. Wolfe has to offer us, it's a pleasure to read her offerings.
April 4, 2014
ARC provided by NETGALLEY in exchange for an honest review.
You can find my review of Fearsome, book 1 on my page.
S.A. Wolfe writes beautifully and never leaves out a detail. Her books are packed with so much more than just a story. They come with a background, a future, and a whole lot of more.
After reading Fearsome (Freedom #1) I wasn't sure how this book would go. I fell in love with Dylan right away, but wasn't sure if he would be able to overcome his illness. Not only be able to overcome it, but also be able to live with it.
In Freedom Dylan goes through treatment and comes out a totally new person. He's constantly running and working out. He avoids social functions and situations and chooses to spend all his time alone. He thinks he's safer if he doesn't allow himself to get involved or care about anything or anyone. Until Emma comes into his life.
Emma grew up in a family that was ruled by the mob. She grew up secluded and only did what her father allowed, and was always in the company of a slew of "goons." After graduating from college she works for her father in his automotive business and dates a man who she was in love with since she was a child. That man also happens to be the son of the biggest "goon" in the business and together they both want to escape the life their parents have set for them. That's a lot easier said then done though.
Emma soon realizes that Robert, isn't who she needs and knows that with him she'll never actually be able to escape the life, so she leaves him and the only life she ever knew. Her friend from college is able to get her a job working at Blackard Designs where she'll be working with and alongside Dylan.
Their first few encounters are awkward and Dylan isn't overly friendly, but that's because he feels an instant attraction to Emma, but he isn't yet ready to move on and feels like she will push him farther back in his progression. BUT, when two people are stuck in a room together all day working together it's hard to fight those feelings. Dylan tries though, he fights every feeling he has for her. Emma knows about Dylan's past, but isn't afraid to push his buttons, really push them.
Soon, Emma's ex finds her and finds a way into her house. Dylan happens to be with her when this happens and he isn't about to sit back and let the ex come back into Emma's life--a life he wants to be the center of. Dylan soon comes out of his shell and does everything he has to and needs to in order to make Emma his.
Together they fight demons, each other, and themselves, but in the end they're able to get through what they need to in order to be happy and to have the lives they were meant to have.
You can find my review of Fearsome, book 1 on my page.
S.A. Wolfe writes beautifully and never leaves out a detail. Her books are packed with so much more than just a story. They come with a background, a future, and a whole lot of more.
After reading Fearsome (Freedom #1) I wasn't sure how this book would go. I fell in love with Dylan right away, but wasn't sure if he would be able to overcome his illness. Not only be able to overcome it, but also be able to live with it.
In Freedom Dylan goes through treatment and comes out a totally new person. He's constantly running and working out. He avoids social functions and situations and chooses to spend all his time alone. He thinks he's safer if he doesn't allow himself to get involved or care about anything or anyone. Until Emma comes into his life.
Emma grew up in a family that was ruled by the mob. She grew up secluded and only did what her father allowed, and was always in the company of a slew of "goons." After graduating from college she works for her father in his automotive business and dates a man who she was in love with since she was a child. That man also happens to be the son of the biggest "goon" in the business and together they both want to escape the life their parents have set for them. That's a lot easier said then done though.
Emma soon realizes that Robert, isn't who she needs and knows that with him she'll never actually be able to escape the life, so she leaves him and the only life she ever knew. Her friend from college is able to get her a job working at Blackard Designs where she'll be working with and alongside Dylan.
Their first few encounters are awkward and Dylan isn't overly friendly, but that's because he feels an instant attraction to Emma, but he isn't yet ready to move on and feels like she will push him farther back in his progression. BUT, when two people are stuck in a room together all day working together it's hard to fight those feelings. Dylan tries though, he fights every feeling he has for her. Emma knows about Dylan's past, but isn't afraid to push his buttons, really push them.
Soon, Emma's ex finds her and finds a way into her house. Dylan happens to be with her when this happens and he isn't about to sit back and let the ex come back into Emma's life--a life he wants to be the center of. Dylan soon comes out of his shell and does everything he has to and needs to in order to make Emma his.
Together they fight demons, each other, and themselves, but in the end they're able to get through what they need to in order to be happy and to have the lives they were meant to have.
July 24, 2016
High praises for a tough subject
This book was so good, I couldn't put it down. Not only did S. A. Wolfe deal with the subject matter of bi-polar and depression, she did it in a honest and informative way. To show Dylan come to terms with his illness and continue to seek help and be open and honest with Emma was very important to the story. Emma "little ninja princess" was definitely a force to be reckoned with. She had her own baggage to deal with. Together I think they were the perfect couple. The writing style of this book draws you in and entertains non stop. Sometimes funny, sometimes heartbreaking and all the time wonderful. I can't gush enough about this book. You most definitely need to read Fearsome first and I hope we might see something on Cooper and Imogene, or Lauren and Leo...hint, hint!!!
This book was so good, I couldn't put it down. Not only did S. A. Wolfe deal with the subject matter of bi-polar and depression, she did it in a honest and informative way. To show Dylan come to terms with his illness and continue to seek help and be open and honest with Emma was very important to the story. Emma "little ninja princess" was definitely a force to be reckoned with. She had her own baggage to deal with. Together I think they were the perfect couple. The writing style of this book draws you in and entertains non stop. Sometimes funny, sometimes heartbreaking and all the time wonderful. I can't gush enough about this book. You most definitely need to read Fearsome first and I hope we might see something on Cooper and Imogene, or Lauren and Leo...hint, hint!!!
July 24, 2015
Dylan, Dylan, Dylan. Ohhhhhh how I love the!!! He was a great hero in this book. You really got to see inside his head and how he was really dealing with his mental illness. The restlessness, the brain going a mile a minute...very true to how people who really have this illness go through. He was the saving grace of this book. Emma....fucking Emma. Both the 1st and 2nd book have the WORST heroines. What is with this author pitting women against women. Why does every heroine in this book have to automatically compare and size up someone from their heros past. WTF is with that. As a strong successful woman author, you would think that they would make their characters be strong and someone other woman can look up to. Not these sniveling, weak, women hating women characters. (spoiler ahead). When Emma found out that Dylan once dated Jess, she completely and utterly flipped out. I mean, flipped out so bad, that I assumed Emma found Dylan balls deep in Jess. Jess and Dylan dated for like what...6 weeks and weren't even in love with each other. And he was also in his manic phase of his illness (you really got a good look at how he really felt, or actually didn't feel towards Jess during that time). Not once did Dylan even speak to or hang out with Jess prior to Emma finding out. Emma acted like he was off sneaking around with Jess the entire book. WHY THE HUGE FREAK OUT. The author had Emma like one of those women who wont let their BF/Husbands have women friends or past lovers in their lives. That does not make a sexy, strong heroine..it makes for a insecure, weak and pathetic one. UGHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH....why is it that in this Fearsome series so far I have hated each heroine. PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE let Imogene be the heroine I need. I have loved her in each book so far...please don't ruin her.
oh and also, Im a bit confused about the whole Ex-BF Robert situation. She originally acts scared of him and sooooooooo very upset that he found her that she moves in with Dylan for protection. But then through the whole book, pretty much pine's over him and is constantly worried about him but says she doesn't love him. Emma expects Dylan to be ok with this....but she flips out over someone Dylan dated months ago and rarely ever sees or talks about. Hmmmm...yea...makes TOTAL sense.
oh and also, Im a bit confused about the whole Ex-BF Robert situation. She originally acts scared of him and sooooooooo very upset that he found her that she moves in with Dylan for protection. But then through the whole book, pretty much pine's over him and is constantly worried about him but says she doesn't love him. Emma expects Dylan to be ok with this....but she flips out over someone Dylan dated months ago and rarely ever sees or talks about. Hmmmm...yea...makes TOTAL sense.
November 8, 2015
After reading Fearsome I just knew I had to read the next book in the Fearsome series and get to know Dylan’s story. I have never read a book where the main character suffers from a mental illness and from reading this book; Dylan breaks that mental illness stigma that people who do suffer can have a perfectly loving relationship with someone such as Emma’s character.
It is rather dignifying to see such a character that, despite his fears and insecurities, S.A. Wolfe does not let the illness define him but reveal that there is freedom to the illness too. I have seen both sides to Dylan’s bipolar disorder from behavioural issues in Fearsome, to a stronger and determined young man – who yes questions himself with each step he takes –as he falls in love. I have always felt since reading Fearsome that Dylan deserved someone worthy of his love.
As soon as Emma starts work at Blackard Design and sharing an office with Dylan, the tension between the two is obvious but quite humouring. Dylan immediately feels his lack of self-control and Emma is someone who is a force to be reckoned with as she is smart, brave and not afraid to speak her mind. However, she does come with some pretty major baggage.
Being part of a family tangled up with mobsters has proven to be rather challenging for her and moving to Hera had not done her any favours as certain people she thought was out of her life return, unhinging Dylan and other members of Hera’s small town.
As the plot continues, you come to realise how Dylan becomes protective and thinks more about Emma’s well-being rather than his disorder. It should be noted to all readers that despite the fact Dylan suffers from a mental illness, the book doesn’t solely focus on the depression but the love these two characters share and how they learn to accept one another whole-heartedly.
It is an endearing and compassionate story of two people that come together and help each other overcome barriers.
Love really can conquer all.
Thank you S.A.Wolfe!
It is rather dignifying to see such a character that, despite his fears and insecurities, S.A. Wolfe does not let the illness define him but reveal that there is freedom to the illness too. I have seen both sides to Dylan’s bipolar disorder from behavioural issues in Fearsome, to a stronger and determined young man – who yes questions himself with each step he takes –as he falls in love. I have always felt since reading Fearsome that Dylan deserved someone worthy of his love.
As soon as Emma starts work at Blackard Design and sharing an office with Dylan, the tension between the two is obvious but quite humouring. Dylan immediately feels his lack of self-control and Emma is someone who is a force to be reckoned with as she is smart, brave and not afraid to speak her mind. However, she does come with some pretty major baggage.
Being part of a family tangled up with mobsters has proven to be rather challenging for her and moving to Hera had not done her any favours as certain people she thought was out of her life return, unhinging Dylan and other members of Hera’s small town.
As the plot continues, you come to realise how Dylan becomes protective and thinks more about Emma’s well-being rather than his disorder. It should be noted to all readers that despite the fact Dylan suffers from a mental illness, the book doesn’t solely focus on the depression but the love these two characters share and how they learn to accept one another whole-heartedly.
It is an endearing and compassionate story of two people that come together and help each other overcome barriers.
Love really can conquer all.
Thank you S.A.Wolfe!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 5, 2014
4.5 stars, so very close to 5 stars. This is a wonderful read mainly about Dylan and Emma. Dylan is bi-polar and has been fighting his depression and mood changes for years. He even checked himself in to the "funny farm" (his term) when things spiraled out of control. He is now taking his meds, getting on with his life when his brother hires Emma to work at their very successful furniture company.
Emma has quite a background. She is originally from New Jersey where her entire life she has been surrounded by mob activities. Her father has been shaken down by the mob for years and her ex-boyfriend is the son of the king pin mobster. She has fled that environment and now started to work for Dylan's brother's furniture company to try and start a new type of life, but then her ex-boyfriend shows up.
Probably the main reason I didn't give this book 5 stars was because of Emma's actions. Dylan is an absolute sweetheart. Trying to deal with his mood swings, constantly talking to himself to keep himself on an even keel and trying to reason through his feelings for Emma and the love he is developing for her. And then there's Emma, mooning over her ex-boyfriend, taking secret calls from her Dad and then totally blowing out of proportion a former relationship that Dylan had. The poor guy is hanging by a thread and she's not helping one bit.
But, I loved Dylan to death and Emma finally saw the light and "Freedom" is one heck of a read. I didn't read the first book and didn't feel I missed anything.
Emma has quite a background. She is originally from New Jersey where her entire life she has been surrounded by mob activities. Her father has been shaken down by the mob for years and her ex-boyfriend is the son of the king pin mobster. She has fled that environment and now started to work for Dylan's brother's furniture company to try and start a new type of life, but then her ex-boyfriend shows up.
Probably the main reason I didn't give this book 5 stars was because of Emma's actions. Dylan is an absolute sweetheart. Trying to deal with his mood swings, constantly talking to himself to keep himself on an even keel and trying to reason through his feelings for Emma and the love he is developing for her. And then there's Emma, mooning over her ex-boyfriend, taking secret calls from her Dad and then totally blowing out of proportion a former relationship that Dylan had. The poor guy is hanging by a thread and she's not helping one bit.
But, I loved Dylan to death and Emma finally saw the light and "Freedom" is one heck of a read. I didn't read the first book and didn't feel I missed anything.
September 12, 2014
I liked the first 60% of the book and then the heroine, Emma, just took a character nose dive straight into the toilet!
From that point on she got worse and worse and I just didn't like her anymore! It took everything in me to finish the last 40% because I'm not a quitter damn it!
Dylan was a different story, I loved him and I so desperately wanted him to leave Emma so that she would stop being a bitch to him! Once they got their issues ironed out, it was too late for me to enjoy them as a couple because there was no redeeming Emma!
It's a shame because this story had the potential to be good if it weren't for the Heroine! All well, on to my next read.
From that point on she got worse and worse and I just didn't like her anymore! It took everything in me to finish the last 40% because I'm not a quitter damn it!
Dylan was a different story, I loved him and I so desperately wanted him to leave Emma so that she would stop being a bitch to him! Once they got their issues ironed out, it was too late for me to enjoy them as a couple because there was no redeeming Emma!
It's a shame because this story had the potential to be good if it weren't for the Heroine! All well, on to my next read.
July 27, 2016
*I received a free ARC of Freedom from Xpresso Booktours for my participation of the blogtour, in exchange of my honest and unbiased review.*
Dylan is an awesome hero, and Emma is a kick-ass woman!
My review was originally posted on my blog (un)Conventional Bookviews on June 17th 2014.
Dylan is an awesome hero, and Emma is a kick-ass woman!
My review was originally posted on my blog (un)Conventional Bookviews on June 17th 2014.
March 31, 2014
Let me start my review by saying although you do not need to, I highly suggest you read Fearsome first. You will get a better understanding of Hera, the Blackard brothers and Dylan's state of mind throughout the story. You will get a glimpse of what Dylan's life was like before he got his mental illness under control. You will also enjoy Carson and Jess' story because it really was beautifully written.
In Freedom Dylan is back from rehab, living life day to day and doing well but there is no "oomph" to his life - no surprises, no excitement, nothing unpredictable. Then along comes Emma and Dylan doesn't know what to do. He is worried that adding the unknown may make his illness change and he doesn't want that to happen. Yet there are no guarantees that by adding Emma into his life anything will change. His internal struggle at this point had me heartbroken. In my mind, he deserved happiness. He deserved somebody to love and somebody to love him. His mental illness does not define him, it is just another aspect that makes him the man he is now.
Emma is starting over. Leaving a past that most really know nothing about. Her family connections make this difficult but she deserves happiness too. At first they are like oil and water until they realize that blended they work out better. They need to overcome their past issues to gain their freedom together.
There are so many things I want to say but I don't like spoilers. I will say the whole Hera cast shows up in Freedom and Emma brings along a surprise from her past as well. The twists and turns of the book will keep you captivated and you will not be able to put it down. This is definitely a book that is worth the loss of sleep.
SA Wolfe has mastered educating us readers on bipolar disorder and it's day to day struggles without us even realizing it and that is what makes this book so special to me. As I said before Dylan's illness is just one aspect of the man he is and what he is, is beautiful - inside and out. We all have something unique about us. Mental illness does not have to define you, it just is your something unique.
In Freedom Dylan is back from rehab, living life day to day and doing well but there is no "oomph" to his life - no surprises, no excitement, nothing unpredictable. Then along comes Emma and Dylan doesn't know what to do. He is worried that adding the unknown may make his illness change and he doesn't want that to happen. Yet there are no guarantees that by adding Emma into his life anything will change. His internal struggle at this point had me heartbroken. In my mind, he deserved happiness. He deserved somebody to love and somebody to love him. His mental illness does not define him, it is just another aspect that makes him the man he is now.
Emma is starting over. Leaving a past that most really know nothing about. Her family connections make this difficult but she deserves happiness too. At first they are like oil and water until they realize that blended they work out better. They need to overcome their past issues to gain their freedom together.
There are so many things I want to say but I don't like spoilers. I will say the whole Hera cast shows up in Freedom and Emma brings along a surprise from her past as well. The twists and turns of the book will keep you captivated and you will not be able to put it down. This is definitely a book that is worth the loss of sleep.
SA Wolfe has mastered educating us readers on bipolar disorder and it's day to day struggles without us even realizing it and that is what makes this book so special to me. As I said before Dylan's illness is just one aspect of the man he is and what he is, is beautiful - inside and out. We all have something unique about us. Mental illness does not have to define you, it just is your something unique.
June 4, 2014
New. Favorite. Book. !!!!!!!!!!
I love everything about this book: every character, the conflict, the writing, the dialogue, the love scenes, the tension.
The writing is spectacular, both technically and it's just one of those books that I couldn't put down!
Each chapter switches points-of-view from Emma to Dylan, and that certainly kept the story refreshing.
Dylan is a total alpha, but not in a dictator-way, as some novels portray the "alpha" persona. He is fiercely devoted, protective, doesn't take any crap from anyone, and yet is almost completely yielding to Emma. He has an adorable sense of humor, and I can't wait to read about Dylan in the other book in this series!
Emma, similarly, is one of my favorite heroines. She is SO easy to relate to, and I love her sense of humor! She is sarcastic, but not in an obnoxious way. I also loved her back-story, and felt it fit in perfectly with the story line to explain exactly who Emma is.
The love scenes were amazing! They have just the right amount of steam, and yet some of them leave certain details to the imagination. I especially liked the one...well...ok, I liked them all! They not only showed the physical connection between Emma and Dylan, but each one added an emotional aspect to their relationship (even when they didn't have a "relationship" per se).
I hope you love Freedom as much as I do!!!
***i received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review***
I love everything about this book: every character, the conflict, the writing, the dialogue, the love scenes, the tension.
The writing is spectacular, both technically and it's just one of those books that I couldn't put down!
Each chapter switches points-of-view from Emma to Dylan, and that certainly kept the story refreshing.
Dylan is a total alpha, but not in a dictator-way, as some novels portray the "alpha" persona. He is fiercely devoted, protective, doesn't take any crap from anyone, and yet is almost completely yielding to Emma. He has an adorable sense of humor, and I can't wait to read about Dylan in the other book in this series!
Emma, similarly, is one of my favorite heroines. She is SO easy to relate to, and I love her sense of humor! She is sarcastic, but not in an obnoxious way. I also loved her back-story, and felt it fit in perfectly with the story line to explain exactly who Emma is.
The love scenes were amazing! They have just the right amount of steam, and yet some of them leave certain details to the imagination. I especially liked the one...well...ok, I liked them all! They not only showed the physical connection between Emma and Dylan, but each one added an emotional aspect to their relationship (even when they didn't have a "relationship" per se).
I hope you love Freedom as much as I do!!!
***i received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review***
May 22, 2014
This story blew me away! SA Wolfe has mastered the incredible technique of drawing readers in. From the first page through to the last, I was captivated!
In this book Dylan is back home from rehab due to being bipolar. He life is filled with mundane tasks that bring no surprise or excitement to his life. Enter Emma and that changes things for Dylan, he does not know what to do. Dylan is worried that by adding something into his life that he never had before he may jeopardize his life by making his illness change.
Emma is starting over. She left behind a past that really know nothing about. Emma and her family connections make this difficult to do; however, eventually they concede and they work out better together.
SA Wolfe has done the incredible job of giving readers an insight to bipolar disorder and the struggles people with it have to go through on a day to day basis. The emotion was pouring out of the pages and I felt every single ounce of it. This story should be on everyones shelves!
In this book Dylan is back home from rehab due to being bipolar. He life is filled with mundane tasks that bring no surprise or excitement to his life. Enter Emma and that changes things for Dylan, he does not know what to do. Dylan is worried that by adding something into his life that he never had before he may jeopardize his life by making his illness change.
Emma is starting over. She left behind a past that really know nothing about. Emma and her family connections make this difficult to do; however, eventually they concede and they work out better together.
SA Wolfe has done the incredible job of giving readers an insight to bipolar disorder and the struggles people with it have to go through on a day to day basis. The emotion was pouring out of the pages and I felt every single ounce of it. This story should be on everyones shelves!
June 2, 2014
I loved Dylan and Emma in this story. It was a more thrilling story than Fearsome. I felt like Dylan really grew in this book. I felt so sorry for Emma and all that she was wrapped up in without meaning to be. Their courtship was quick but strong and I loved that. I think that both of them needed each other for particular reasons. Survival for both was extremely important and they helped each other immensely in that plight. Mental illness can be managed and I love how you showed that in this book. People that come from crappy backgrounds can make something of themselves, and you showed that too. Thank you for the wild ride and I look forward to another book.
February 21, 2015
A beautiful story that fully immerses you in the families and lives of Dylan and Emma as they fall in love and navigate their issues together.
The characters are well-developed, real and completely relatable. I fell in love with Emma's witty sense of humor and her ability to go head to head with Dylan. She never misses a beat.
The writing is superb, well thought out and authentic. This was a truly enjoyable read.
The characters are well-developed, real and completely relatable. I fell in love with Emma's witty sense of humor and her ability to go head to head with Dylan. She never misses a beat.
The writing is superb, well thought out and authentic. This was a truly enjoyable read.
June 19, 2014
Good story - lots of fluff - not over the top though. Sweet fluff.
March 22, 2018
Acknowledging his mental illness is now a reality for Dylan. That’s the first step to getting his life back on track. Now that he is back in the work force, Dylan finds that his new co-worker Emma is enticing all of his senses. Something Dylan has kept at bay during his treatment and recovery. The sass and spark that Emma exudes is like a siren’s call to Dylan. Something that is harder to ignore with each passing day.
With a past that few are aware of, Emma finds herself pulled back into a world she thought she left long ago. Danger is lurking around the corner, and Dylan is determined to keep her safe. The two become temporary roommates, and the attraction they tried to ignore for so long came front and center. With sparks flying all around, the mysteries of Emma’s past threaten the fragile relationship that Dylan and Emma are now embroiled upon. Can they find a way to overcome the obstacles they both face, and give love a chance?
Freedom is the second book in the Fearsome series by S.A. Wolfe. It follows Dylan after his discovery of his mental issue. Tackling mental illness can be tricky when writing, but the author transitions the details in a very flattering and realistic view. A compliment to any reader dealing with the struggles of mental health.
While I really enjoyed the romance between Dylan and Emma, it was too much of an ‘insta –love’ situation. It seems like the relationship skipped over all of the normal feelings and situations one would face in life. So much so that the repercussions of not knowing one another personally caused issues that were distracting to the story plot (Dylan’s former fling with Jess). This former hookup brought about an extreme and kind of crazy reaction from Emma, and her obsession over it was a bit of a distraction. Dylan is so nonchalant about the time he shared with Jess, and the fact she was now his sister in law. Adding these two reactions together made me feel like both reactions were more for ‘filler’ and not really a sticking point at all.
Emma’s past comes back with a bang. One that I would have loved to have seen the author explore a bit more. There was so much potential with where Emma was in her relationship with the past, and how it affected her life now. To have such a juicy plot tease and just gloss over it left me wanting to know more about the past more than the present!!
Overall - Freedom was one of those books that was a ‘middle of the road’ story. The kind that kept me interested, but didn’t stop me from skimming pages to discover if there was more substance to the plot that was just waiting to be uncovered. Sadly – the potential of where the story COULD have gone versus where it actually traveled left a crater in-between. Great writing, but just an unrealistic story!!
With a past that few are aware of, Emma finds herself pulled back into a world she thought she left long ago. Danger is lurking around the corner, and Dylan is determined to keep her safe. The two become temporary roommates, and the attraction they tried to ignore for so long came front and center. With sparks flying all around, the mysteries of Emma’s past threaten the fragile relationship that Dylan and Emma are now embroiled upon. Can they find a way to overcome the obstacles they both face, and give love a chance?
Freedom is the second book in the Fearsome series by S.A. Wolfe. It follows Dylan after his discovery of his mental issue. Tackling mental illness can be tricky when writing, but the author transitions the details in a very flattering and realistic view. A compliment to any reader dealing with the struggles of mental health.
While I really enjoyed the romance between Dylan and Emma, it was too much of an ‘insta –love’ situation. It seems like the relationship skipped over all of the normal feelings and situations one would face in life. So much so that the repercussions of not knowing one another personally caused issues that were distracting to the story plot (Dylan’s former fling with Jess). This former hookup brought about an extreme and kind of crazy reaction from Emma, and her obsession over it was a bit of a distraction. Dylan is so nonchalant about the time he shared with Jess, and the fact she was now his sister in law. Adding these two reactions together made me feel like both reactions were more for ‘filler’ and not really a sticking point at all.
Emma’s past comes back with a bang. One that I would have loved to have seen the author explore a bit more. There was so much potential with where Emma was in her relationship with the past, and how it affected her life now. To have such a juicy plot tease and just gloss over it left me wanting to know more about the past more than the present!!
Overall - Freedom was one of those books that was a ‘middle of the road’ story. The kind that kept me interested, but didn’t stop me from skimming pages to discover if there was more substance to the plot that was just waiting to be uncovered. Sadly – the potential of where the story COULD have gone versus where it actually traveled left a crater in-between. Great writing, but just an unrealistic story!!
December 8, 2017
Likeable characters, but they are a little dense
I enjoyed completing the series. I read 3 first, then 1 and now this one. I felt sorry for these characters and their struggle with issues in their past and present. Emma was unrealistic in dealing with Robert, her previous boyfriend.
I enjoyed completing the series. I read 3 first, then 1 and now this one. I felt sorry for these characters and their struggle with issues in their past and present. Emma was unrealistic in dealing with Robert, her previous boyfriend.
June 2, 2017
I've been listening to this series and love what the female narrator did for Emma's voice.
February 4, 2018
This is another awesome book by S.A. Wolfe. I have the privilege of owning 3 of her signed books in this set. These are books I will never give up!
May 13, 2020
Loved!!!
It was such a great story, this book was exciting and had its awww moments.... Emma def doesn’t get on my nerves like Jess does in the first book...
It was such a great story, this book was exciting and had its awww moments.... Emma def doesn’t get on my nerves like Jess does in the first book...
May 12, 2021
Such a great book! Will re-read this one
February 13, 2017
Love Dylan! Great book. Now for the next book!
June 7, 2019
I was hoping to love Dylan's story and the author did not disappoint.
This is a much different Dylan than we see in Fearsome. He is doing much better with his bi-polar disorder and does not want to slide back into his old ways. He is making much more mature choices in life and it is paying off, but he is afraid to get into another relationship since in the past it has always ended in disaster for him.
Emma is running from her family and her ex. She tells Dylan some of her story, but not all of it, until she has no choice but to reveal it all. I liked that the author chose to go a different route with the ex than is usual for these type of stories. I was happy with the way everything turned out for everyone and I still am a big fan of Dylan!
This is a much different Dylan than we see in Fearsome. He is doing much better with his bi-polar disorder and does not want to slide back into his old ways. He is making much more mature choices in life and it is paying off, but he is afraid to get into another relationship since in the past it has always ended in disaster for him.
Emma is running from her family and her ex. She tells Dylan some of her story, but not all of it, until she has no choice but to reveal it all. I liked that the author chose to go a different route with the ex than is usual for these type of stories. I was happy with the way everything turned out for everyone and I still am a big fan of Dylan!
June 29, 2014
Freedom by S.A. Wolfe(Fearsome #2)
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Age Group: New Adult
Release Date: March 30th 2014
Format: eARC
Source: via tour host
Overall Rating: 4 Stars
**This is the second book in the Fearsome series but can be read as a stand-alone**
I loved the first book in this series Fearsome so when I heard this was coming out I was really excited. I love me some Blackard brothers and I really loved Dylan in the first book. I couldn’t wait to read more about him.
Dylan Blackard is back in Hera after completing a treatment program and he is determined to leave his wild past behind him. He steers clear of any social outings and definitely away from any women. He plans to keep up with his outpatient treatments to help him manage his bipolar disorder and wants more then anything to prove to his brother Carson that he can be a better person.
“I’ve been raising hell for so many years, and now I am finally the good brother. I don’t want to mess that up for me or anyone else, for that matter.”
Emma came to Hera not only for a change in career but really for an overall change in her life. She wanted or rather needed to take a step away from her families business and what better place to start fresh then the small town of Hera? Emma lands a job at Blackard Designs and gets stuck sharing an office with the very grumpy yet very sexy Dylan Blackard.
“I am here for a job and a chance at a real career. I am not here to moon over a guy who has a past of setting world records in one-night stands”.
Dylan doesn’t like Emma crowding his space and they don’t necessarily hit it off at first and he is really kind of an asshole to her. He avoids her like the plague and she can’t figure out what she did to deserve this kind of treatment from him?
“I don’t dislike having Emma here. I dislike feeling n edge, as though I am going to lose it around her because I like having her here too much”.
Even though the two of them have a hard time handling working together at first and it may seem like they loath each other it’s just the opposite. The sexual tension between them is off the charts and is super hot. Soon they start spending more time together and their feelings turn to something more. When someone from Emma’s past shows up Dylan wants to make sure she knows just how much he wants her so that if she has to choose she chooses him. Emma knows what she wants but should she put her career or love first?
“Dylan was made to love someone”
Will Dylan finally allow himself a real chance at love? Or do his past still weigh to heavy on his shoulders?
“When was the last time my emotions were genuine and not orchestrated by a chemical imbalance?”
What I loved most about this book of coarse is Dylan. He is such a fantastic character. Yes in book one we see that he makes all sorts of shitty choices and could seem to care less about the consequences of his actions. But he couldn’t help a lot of the choices he made. In this book we get a deeper look into the affect Dylan’s bipolar disorder has on him. I have to say the Author did a fantastic job handling the touchy subject of mental illness and she did it with great sensitivity. We know Dylan suffers from this but it’s not something the whole book is built around, there is so much more to the story. There was definitely laugh out loud moments in this book and I did a whole lot of swooning. Not to mention there were some pretty steamy parts as well. Always love when those are in there ;)
Another thing I absolutely loved is the Authors writing style, it’s fantastic. She doesn’t leave any detail out and while sometimes the over detail of a story in certain situations tends to annoy me, it doesn’t at all in S.A. Wolfe’s novels. It’s actually quite the opposite, I love that she doesn’t miss a beat and the details just make the journey that much more fantastic.
What I didn’t like so much about this book was unfortunately Emma. She really grated on my nerves and I really did try to love her. I mean yes she could be tolerable at times and I loved that she saw the best in Dylan. I didn’t like the over the top jealousy she had and I honestly had a little bit of a hard time connecting with her.
However I really did love this story, it was a great follow up. I thoroughly enjoy S.A. Wolfe’s writing and would definitely recommend both books in this series to anyone. And I cannot wait to read more from her in the future.
Reviewed by Stephanie The Book Hooker
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Age Group: New Adult
Release Date: March 30th 2014
Format: eARC
Source: via tour host
Overall Rating: 4 Stars
**This is the second book in the Fearsome series but can be read as a stand-alone**
I loved the first book in this series Fearsome so when I heard this was coming out I was really excited. I love me some Blackard brothers and I really loved Dylan in the first book. I couldn’t wait to read more about him.
Dylan Blackard is back in Hera after completing a treatment program and he is determined to leave his wild past behind him. He steers clear of any social outings and definitely away from any women. He plans to keep up with his outpatient treatments to help him manage his bipolar disorder and wants more then anything to prove to his brother Carson that he can be a better person.
“I’ve been raising hell for so many years, and now I am finally the good brother. I don’t want to mess that up for me or anyone else, for that matter.”
Emma came to Hera not only for a change in career but really for an overall change in her life. She wanted or rather needed to take a step away from her families business and what better place to start fresh then the small town of Hera? Emma lands a job at Blackard Designs and gets stuck sharing an office with the very grumpy yet very sexy Dylan Blackard.
“I am here for a job and a chance at a real career. I am not here to moon over a guy who has a past of setting world records in one-night stands”.
Dylan doesn’t like Emma crowding his space and they don’t necessarily hit it off at first and he is really kind of an asshole to her. He avoids her like the plague and she can’t figure out what she did to deserve this kind of treatment from him?
“I don’t dislike having Emma here. I dislike feeling n edge, as though I am going to lose it around her because I like having her here too much”.
Even though the two of them have a hard time handling working together at first and it may seem like they loath each other it’s just the opposite. The sexual tension between them is off the charts and is super hot. Soon they start spending more time together and their feelings turn to something more. When someone from Emma’s past shows up Dylan wants to make sure she knows just how much he wants her so that if she has to choose she chooses him. Emma knows what she wants but should she put her career or love first?
“Dylan was made to love someone”
Will Dylan finally allow himself a real chance at love? Or do his past still weigh to heavy on his shoulders?
“When was the last time my emotions were genuine and not orchestrated by a chemical imbalance?”
What I loved most about this book of coarse is Dylan. He is such a fantastic character. Yes in book one we see that he makes all sorts of shitty choices and could seem to care less about the consequences of his actions. But he couldn’t help a lot of the choices he made. In this book we get a deeper look into the affect Dylan’s bipolar disorder has on him. I have to say the Author did a fantastic job handling the touchy subject of mental illness and she did it with great sensitivity. We know Dylan suffers from this but it’s not something the whole book is built around, there is so much more to the story. There was definitely laugh out loud moments in this book and I did a whole lot of swooning. Not to mention there were some pretty steamy parts as well. Always love when those are in there ;)
Another thing I absolutely loved is the Authors writing style, it’s fantastic. She doesn’t leave any detail out and while sometimes the over detail of a story in certain situations tends to annoy me, it doesn’t at all in S.A. Wolfe’s novels. It’s actually quite the opposite, I love that she doesn’t miss a beat and the details just make the journey that much more fantastic.
What I didn’t like so much about this book was unfortunately Emma. She really grated on my nerves and I really did try to love her. I mean yes she could be tolerable at times and I loved that she saw the best in Dylan. I didn’t like the over the top jealousy she had and I honestly had a little bit of a hard time connecting with her.
However I really did love this story, it was a great follow up. I thoroughly enjoy S.A. Wolfe’s writing and would definitely recommend both books in this series to anyone. And I cannot wait to read more from her in the future.
Reviewed by Stephanie The Book Hooker
February 26, 2017
Freedom is the second book in the Fearsome series, and I definitely liked it more than the first book. This story has more emotional and suspenseful aspects to it, which was a nice change. I was curious about Dylan's treatment, and if it would change him, which it did. Not that it wasn't a good change, but definitely different from the first person we met in book #1.
I really liked Emma right from the start. However, just like in the first book, she starts out with a strong personality, sure of herself, and excited to start her new life, but after she and Dylan begin seeing one another, she begins to doubt herself and Dylan, and is constantly wondering if she is only making things worse for him. I know that doesn't sound bad, especially when you care about someone, but it got to the point where it was repetitive, and annoying. At times she had very childish reactions to things that, at least to me, she had no right acting that way, or the way she treated Dylan. It's difficult to explain without giving away spoilers, which I refuse to do.
Overall, this was an intriguing story, suspenseful, humorous, and at times an emotional roller-coaster. I will definitely be continuing with the series, and hope that the female leads will get better.
I would recommend this book, and series.
I really liked Emma right from the start. However, just like in the first book, she starts out with a strong personality, sure of herself, and excited to start her new life, but after she and Dylan begin seeing one another, she begins to doubt herself and Dylan, and is constantly wondering if she is only making things worse for him. I know that doesn't sound bad, especially when you care about someone, but it got to the point where it was repetitive, and annoying. At times she had very childish reactions to things that, at least to me, she had no right acting that way, or the way she treated Dylan. It's difficult to explain without giving away spoilers, which I refuse to do.
Overall, this was an intriguing story, suspenseful, humorous, and at times an emotional roller-coaster. I will definitely be continuing with the series, and hope that the female leads will get better.
I would recommend this book, and series.
April 13, 2014
“Yeah, I can be a good guy—just send me off to the crazy house to get a periodic tune up.”—Dylan
Dylan has been tortured by his inner demons long enough and after finally getting the help he needed, he’s finally recovering. He’s got his regime: work, exercise, therapy, running, work, more exercise…no women, alcohol, or socializing. Life’s good. A little numb, maybe, but good. That is, until Emma shows up. She makes him feel. She makes him want to be a better person for her. She’s everything he never knew he wanted. But the past that she’s running from? It can ruin everything…
“Dylan was made to love someone.”—Emma
Well, if you haven’t read Fearsome (the previous book), the cat is out of the bag as to which brother ends up with Jess! You can start off with this book, but I’d read Fearsome first since you’ll get to read more about the background that is quickly summarized in this book as to how Dylan went seriously off the deep end the summer before when it came to Jess and Carson. But then again, since it’s one of my faves, I may be a bit biased when saying go read Fearsome first!
Anyway, on to this book, eh? Well, you know how I mention poor Dylan went off the deep end? Our hero is bipolar (aka manic-depressive), and I have to give huge kudos to the author for having a hero with a mental illness. She presents such an intriguing story as Dylan has to deal with his mental illness while falling in love with Emma. At the same time, Emma has to face the reality that the man she loves has a serious medical problem while also being burdened with her father’s poor decisions. I love how the author ensnares us with their tough situation as we root for them despite the cards stacked against them.
And boy are those some nasty cards. Not only do we have Dylan’s bipolar situation, Emma is in a real Godfather situation—and I’m not talking about the fairy kind. When you’re trying to avoid getting dragged back into a criminal world, popping a few mood-stabilizers doesn’t seem like a deal-breaker. But jealousy? That’s another story. Dylan has some serious jealousy issues when it comes to our dear big-hearted Emma getting sympathetic with a troubled ex-boyfriend from her past. His jealousy is a bit worrisome until we see that Emma’s green-eyed monster makes Dylan’s green-eyed monster look like the charming fellow from Monsters Inc (jeez, Emma, give the guy a break!).
While I’d rate the romance heat level as on the higher side, it’s not all sexy times since Dylan is struggling with actually having a meaningful relationship that isn’t based on sex. Just tell that to Emma though since she needs reminding. But that’s ok, she’s got a lot on her mind with the whole mob thing going on. And their chemistry? Smoking.
Overall, I loved the characters and how Dylan has grown up (and out with all that bench-pressing and exercising) since the last book. We get to read through both Dylan and Emma’s first person point of view in alternating chapters, so we can understand both of their viewpoints in this complicated relationship (they tell it like a story with a similar character voice), and I commend how the author handled the sensitive nature of Dylan’s bipolar disorder instead of handwaving it away. We also have some favorite characters from book 1 show up as well as hints for a future book and its starring couple. As for the epilogue? It couldn’t have been more perfect. This is a 5 out of 5 for me!
(Originally posted on my blog; I received a Netgalley copy in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.)
Dylan has been tortured by his inner demons long enough and after finally getting the help he needed, he’s finally recovering. He’s got his regime: work, exercise, therapy, running, work, more exercise…no women, alcohol, or socializing. Life’s good. A little numb, maybe, but good. That is, until Emma shows up. She makes him feel. She makes him want to be a better person for her. She’s everything he never knew he wanted. But the past that she’s running from? It can ruin everything…
“Dylan was made to love someone.”—Emma
Well, if you haven’t read Fearsome (the previous book), the cat is out of the bag as to which brother ends up with Jess! You can start off with this book, but I’d read Fearsome first since you’ll get to read more about the background that is quickly summarized in this book as to how Dylan went seriously off the deep end the summer before when it came to Jess and Carson. But then again, since it’s one of my faves, I may be a bit biased when saying go read Fearsome first!
Anyway, on to this book, eh? Well, you know how I mention poor Dylan went off the deep end? Our hero is bipolar (aka manic-depressive), and I have to give huge kudos to the author for having a hero with a mental illness. She presents such an intriguing story as Dylan has to deal with his mental illness while falling in love with Emma. At the same time, Emma has to face the reality that the man she loves has a serious medical problem while also being burdened with her father’s poor decisions. I love how the author ensnares us with their tough situation as we root for them despite the cards stacked against them.
And boy are those some nasty cards. Not only do we have Dylan’s bipolar situation, Emma is in a real Godfather situation—and I’m not talking about the fairy kind. When you’re trying to avoid getting dragged back into a criminal world, popping a few mood-stabilizers doesn’t seem like a deal-breaker. But jealousy? That’s another story. Dylan has some serious jealousy issues when it comes to our dear big-hearted Emma getting sympathetic with a troubled ex-boyfriend from her past. His jealousy is a bit worrisome until we see that Emma’s green-eyed monster makes Dylan’s green-eyed monster look like the charming fellow from Monsters Inc (jeez, Emma, give the guy a break!).
While I’d rate the romance heat level as on the higher side, it’s not all sexy times since Dylan is struggling with actually having a meaningful relationship that isn’t based on sex. Just tell that to Emma though since she needs reminding. But that’s ok, she’s got a lot on her mind with the whole mob thing going on. And their chemistry? Smoking.
Overall, I loved the characters and how Dylan has grown up (and out with all that bench-pressing and exercising) since the last book. We get to read through both Dylan and Emma’s first person point of view in alternating chapters, so we can understand both of their viewpoints in this complicated relationship (they tell it like a story with a similar character voice), and I commend how the author handled the sensitive nature of Dylan’s bipolar disorder instead of handwaving it away. We also have some favorite characters from book 1 show up as well as hints for a future book and its starring couple. As for the epilogue? It couldn’t have been more perfect. This is a 5 out of 5 for me!
(Originally posted on my blog; I received a Netgalley copy in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.)
June 17, 2014
*A review copy was provided by the author for the Blog Tour*
Amazon Buy link--->> Freedom: (Fearsome #2)
~~ 4 Stars ~~
This was my first book by S.A. Wolfe and I have to say I was not disappointed at all. I know that Freedom is the second book in the Fearsome Series, but it truly can be read as a standalone. I thought the author did an excellent job in connecting the dots between book 1 and Freedom, so I never felt like I was missing anything. She gave us enough information to create this book as a standalone, but also didn't truly ruin Fearsome if you wanted to go back and read that book. I really liked her writing style. I thought she created wonderful characters and the storyline was interesting enough that it kept you intrigued throughout the whole book. This story had everything in it, it had laughter, passion, romance, sex, and dramatic suspense. I loved how she balanced everything out. I also liked how she incorporated flashbacks from both Emma and Dylan so we got to see what their childhoods were like. This story was told in Dual POV and I honestly believe that this book couldn't have been told any other way.
As you know Dylan was introduced in Fearsome ( Book 1 ) and Emma is brought into his life through his brother and the fact that Emma was good friends with Dylan's friends also. Carson ( Dylan's Brother ) hires Emma to work at their company because she is trying to start fresh away from her troubled family. I honestly thought that Dylan and Emma were made for each other. They both had some serious life issues going on, but they were exactly what each other needed. They loved each other unconditionally, scars and all. Dylan was such a troubled character….In book 1 we find out that he is bipolar. I thought the author did a wonderful job covering the issues that surround a person with this condition. but she didn't dwell on it either. That was one of the things I loved about Emma was that she didn't see Dylan as damaged goods. She loved him for who he was inside, the good and the bad. Now Emma wasn't without her own baggage. I don't want to explain that too much because it is a big part of the suspense part of the book and I don't want to accidentally give something away. I will say that Emma and Dylan's relationship did kind of progress at a quick speed, but for some reason it totally worked in this story.
I enjoyed each of the side characters in this story. I thought they all played a great part in supporting Dylan and Emma. I wouldn't mind reading a book about Imogene and Cooper ;)
I would definitely recommend this to anyone who is looking for a love story between two broken souls, but that will have you laughing, swooning, blushing and smiling, all with the added extra suspense to the story. I have to say I loved the Epilogue….I truly think she ended this story perfectly!!!!
For more reviews go to Book Bitches Blog
Amazon Buy link--->> Freedom: (Fearsome #2)
~~ 4 Stars ~~
This was my first book by S.A. Wolfe and I have to say I was not disappointed at all. I know that Freedom is the second book in the Fearsome Series, but it truly can be read as a standalone. I thought the author did an excellent job in connecting the dots between book 1 and Freedom, so I never felt like I was missing anything. She gave us enough information to create this book as a standalone, but also didn't truly ruin Fearsome if you wanted to go back and read that book. I really liked her writing style. I thought she created wonderful characters and the storyline was interesting enough that it kept you intrigued throughout the whole book. This story had everything in it, it had laughter, passion, romance, sex, and dramatic suspense. I loved how she balanced everything out. I also liked how she incorporated flashbacks from both Emma and Dylan so we got to see what their childhoods were like. This story was told in Dual POV and I honestly believe that this book couldn't have been told any other way.
As you know Dylan was introduced in Fearsome ( Book 1 ) and Emma is brought into his life through his brother and the fact that Emma was good friends with Dylan's friends also. Carson ( Dylan's Brother ) hires Emma to work at their company because she is trying to start fresh away from her troubled family. I honestly thought that Dylan and Emma were made for each other. They both had some serious life issues going on, but they were exactly what each other needed. They loved each other unconditionally, scars and all. Dylan was such a troubled character….In book 1 we find out that he is bipolar. I thought the author did a wonderful job covering the issues that surround a person with this condition. but she didn't dwell on it either. That was one of the things I loved about Emma was that she didn't see Dylan as damaged goods. She loved him for who he was inside, the good and the bad. Now Emma wasn't without her own baggage. I don't want to explain that too much because it is a big part of the suspense part of the book and I don't want to accidentally give something away. I will say that Emma and Dylan's relationship did kind of progress at a quick speed, but for some reason it totally worked in this story.
I enjoyed each of the side characters in this story. I thought they all played a great part in supporting Dylan and Emma. I wouldn't mind reading a book about Imogene and Cooper ;)
I would definitely recommend this to anyone who is looking for a love story between two broken souls, but that will have you laughing, swooning, blushing and smiling, all with the added extra suspense to the story. I have to say I loved the Epilogue….I truly think she ended this story perfectly!!!!
For more reviews go to Book Bitches Blog
April 22, 2014
I absolutely loved Dylan and Emma's story. Although Freedom is not a sequel to the equally excellent Fearsome, I would recommend that you read both books.
Having read and loved Fearsome, I was thrilled to hear that SA Wolfe was writing Dylan’s story.
When we last met Dylan Blackard he was en route to a residential treatment program to deal with his Bi-Polar condition. Dylan returns to Hera a changed man. He keeps his head down, establishes a mind-numbing routine of work, working out, therapy and repeats it ad nauseam. Gone are his partying, wild, womanising ways. He’s finally ‘the good brother’. He is convinced that living the life of a hermit is the way forward for him, until a typical work day is turned on its head when he is introduced to his new co-worker, the vivacious Emma Keller.
Emma is in Hera for a new start. New job, new friends, new life. She wants to shed her life of the ‘Soprano’ existence she became entrenched in at a young age. But not all of that baggage stays in Jersey where she left it. Imogene and Lauren are Emma’s connection to Hera and through them she (and we the reader) meet the cute and quirky cast of characters from Hera. Jess and Carson are happy newly-weds. Archie still putters about with his unassuming words of wisdom.
After a rocky start to their working relationship and a week of trying to fight their mutual attraction, a busted tyre brings Dylan & Emma together in the unlikeliest of ways.
The pull between them is palpable, written so well that it practically leaps off the page.
I loved reading from both Dylan and Emma’s points of view, as it gave insight into how they both dealt with this new relationship, and how they each perceived their own individual baggage to be the one thing that could halt this new love.
In any budding romance, feelings of self-doubt are normal, but when dealing with a mental illness emotions run even higher. “Meds don’t make me high, so it has to be her.” “When was the last time my emotions were genuine and not orchestrated by a chemical imbalance?”
Emma has genuine concerns about adding the crazy family life that she has into the mix of her new relationship with Dylan, which is already complicated.
"If I break all my connections with my family, and let any lingering love or affection for my parents whither to nothing, can I start fresh with Dylan? Is it possible I am setting myself up for a future of regrets that would hurt Dylan? How much psychological melodrama can a guy like Dylan handle? Under the circumstances, I could be the worst possible woman for him."
What stood out for me about this story is that Wolfe addresses Dylan’s illness without making the whole story about his illness. I’ll try to be clearer about this point. Often in books dealing with mental illness it is the one thing that overtakes the story. It’s rare to read a romance novel where the lead character has a serious mental illness, AND falls in love AND leads a normal life. It is rare that an author deals with this subject matter so realistically, with honesty and humour.
I would highly recommend that you 1-click this fab book!
Having read and loved Fearsome, I was thrilled to hear that SA Wolfe was writing Dylan’s story.
When we last met Dylan Blackard he was en route to a residential treatment program to deal with his Bi-Polar condition. Dylan returns to Hera a changed man. He keeps his head down, establishes a mind-numbing routine of work, working out, therapy and repeats it ad nauseam. Gone are his partying, wild, womanising ways. He’s finally ‘the good brother’. He is convinced that living the life of a hermit is the way forward for him, until a typical work day is turned on its head when he is introduced to his new co-worker, the vivacious Emma Keller.
Emma is in Hera for a new start. New job, new friends, new life. She wants to shed her life of the ‘Soprano’ existence she became entrenched in at a young age. But not all of that baggage stays in Jersey where she left it. Imogene and Lauren are Emma’s connection to Hera and through them she (and we the reader) meet the cute and quirky cast of characters from Hera. Jess and Carson are happy newly-weds. Archie still putters about with his unassuming words of wisdom.
After a rocky start to their working relationship and a week of trying to fight their mutual attraction, a busted tyre brings Dylan & Emma together in the unlikeliest of ways.
The pull between them is palpable, written so well that it practically leaps off the page.
I loved reading from both Dylan and Emma’s points of view, as it gave insight into how they both dealt with this new relationship, and how they each perceived their own individual baggage to be the one thing that could halt this new love.
In any budding romance, feelings of self-doubt are normal, but when dealing with a mental illness emotions run even higher. “Meds don’t make me high, so it has to be her.” “When was the last time my emotions were genuine and not orchestrated by a chemical imbalance?”
Emma has genuine concerns about adding the crazy family life that she has into the mix of her new relationship with Dylan, which is already complicated.
"If I break all my connections with my family, and let any lingering love or affection for my parents whither to nothing, can I start fresh with Dylan? Is it possible I am setting myself up for a future of regrets that would hurt Dylan? How much psychological melodrama can a guy like Dylan handle? Under the circumstances, I could be the worst possible woman for him."
What stood out for me about this story is that Wolfe addresses Dylan’s illness without making the whole story about his illness. I’ll try to be clearer about this point. Often in books dealing with mental illness it is the one thing that overtakes the story. It’s rare to read a romance novel where the lead character has a serious mental illness, AND falls in love AND leads a normal life. It is rare that an author deals with this subject matter so realistically, with honesty and humour.
I would highly recommend that you 1-click this fab book!
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