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Running On Empty #2
Splinters
Hazel
I’ve spent my younger years acting, safe in a world of make-believe. I learnt to transform into roles to hold onto a sense of harmony in my life.
Years later, still in that moment, I am another face. Another mask. I am not me—the forgotten daughter, the quiet friend, the unrequited love.
Until the pretending becomes meaningless.
And my life hardens again.
I’m tired of acting for my friends when my parents ignore me. I’m tired of acting for myself when I want the world to stop being so hard. I’m tired of holding back from the only man I’ve ever loved.
Even though being drawn to him petrifies me above all else.
When I act to him, he sees right through me.
Each and every time.
Robbie
She has haunted my dreams for years. The girl I teased to watch her blush. The girl I watched in quiet agony. The girl I had a chance with, one I ruined when I pushed her away.
Now, after all these years, she’s returning to work for me. A ruse to make her mine.
I will show her that she deserves to be cherished, and loved. I’ll bring back that goddess who took my breath away when I was twenty.
You only live once. Side by side, I only want this final lifetime spent with her.
Splinters is the second novel in the Running On Empty series and can be read as a standalone. It contains no cliff hanger.
I’ve spent my younger years acting, safe in a world of make-believe. I learnt to transform into roles to hold onto a sense of harmony in my life.
Years later, still in that moment, I am another face. Another mask. I am not me—the forgotten daughter, the quiet friend, the unrequited love.
Until the pretending becomes meaningless.
And my life hardens again.
I’m tired of acting for my friends when my parents ignore me. I’m tired of acting for myself when I want the world to stop being so hard. I’m tired of holding back from the only man I’ve ever loved.
Even though being drawn to him petrifies me above all else.
When I act to him, he sees right through me.
Each and every time.
Robbie
She has haunted my dreams for years. The girl I teased to watch her blush. The girl I watched in quiet agony. The girl I had a chance with, one I ruined when I pushed her away.
Now, after all these years, she’s returning to work for me. A ruse to make her mine.
I will show her that she deserves to be cherished, and loved. I’ll bring back that goddess who took my breath away when I was twenty.
You only live once. Side by side, I only want this final lifetime spent with her.
Splinters is the second novel in the Running On Empty series and can be read as a standalone. It contains no cliff hanger.
357 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 28, 2015
7 people are currently reading
260 people want to read
About the author
M.R. Field
5 books321 followersM R Field is an author from Australia and has completed a Bachelor's degree with Honours from Melbourne. After growing up with the river at her front door, she returned back to her hometown after many years of living in the city. She now lives a tranquil lifestyle with her husband, two young children and effervescent dog.
M R Field has always held a love for writing, filling journals as a child which progressed to more eloquent pieces as an adult. After ten years of creative instruction, she decided to turn these ideas into manuscripts. She adores creating new story lines and is a big fan of a happily ever after, but believes strongly in making her characters work for it.
She has recently decided to join the independent publishing world with her debut novel, Fragments, which released late 2014, alongside its subsequent novel, Splinters that released in 2015. Fractures released on October, 25th 2016. Do Not Respond, a standalone sexy office romance novel is set for release mid 2018.
M R Field has always held a love for writing, filling journals as a child which progressed to more eloquent pieces as an adult. After ten years of creative instruction, she decided to turn these ideas into manuscripts. She adores creating new story lines and is a big fan of a happily ever after, but believes strongly in making her characters work for it.
She has recently decided to join the independent publishing world with her debut novel, Fragments, which released late 2014, alongside its subsequent novel, Splinters that released in 2015. Fractures released on October, 25th 2016. Do Not Respond, a standalone sexy office romance novel is set for release mid 2018.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
February 7, 2017
Splinters ~ 4.5 stars
Hazel has grown up in a dysfunctional family. The family was well off, but there was no love between the parents and three sisters. Each lived their own life, not looking after the other. Luckily, Hazel had her best friend Trice, and Robbie, Trice’s older brother. For years Hazel has a crush on Robbie, but he never saw her, was always dating other girls. To complete her studies, Hazel has moved to Europe, but now she’s back in Australia after having spent four years in London. She still has feelings for Robbie, but she has promised herself to guard her heart, she can’t survive another heartache.
Robbie is the cocky guy in class, confident, in for fun. Until his twenties he is all about the parties, the girls and stuff. It isn’t until one kiss Robbie realizes Hazel, his sister’s best friend, means much more to him then he cares to admit. But he’s too late, she’s moving away to London and won’t be back any time soon. Finally knowing what he wants – or more who he wants – Robbie gets his act together and starts working on his plans for the future. Plans that include Hazel.. Having her back in Melbourne is one thing, convince her of his love for her is a second..
Hazel and Robbie have known each other since high school. As Trice’s best friend, Hazel was always around but Robbie never saw her as more than a good friend to his sister and himself. One moment changes everything, and Robbie still is beating himself up for letting Hazel go. But now she’s back, and even works for Robbie at his new bar, The Emerald Vixen. Hazel still loves Robbie, but she has seen him with so many girlfriends. She’s afraid to be just another girl for him, to lose the friendship they have. Slowly, Hazel starts to let Robbie in, and they finally have their shot at something real and beautiful.
Like the other books I’ve read by M.R. Field, Splinters is a ‘from friends to lovers’ story. Poor Hazel has been through a lot with her horrible family and treasures the friendships she has with other people. It’s understandable she doesn’t want to ruin her friendship with Robbie; yes, she loves him but she doesn’t want to lose him. Robbie is a determined, sweet man; after realizing Hazel is the woman for him, he makes sure he’s ready for when she returns to Australia. It was good so see bits and pieces of Alex and Trice (Fragments), and to see Trinity and Theo still dance around each other (their story is told in Fractures).
I love Hazel and Robbie, and their story. I give Splinters 4.5 stars.
www.mariekesbooks.com
“When are you going to change? Would you hurt me? Everyone else seems to.”
Hazel has grown up in a dysfunctional family. The family was well off, but there was no love between the parents and three sisters. Each lived their own life, not looking after the other. Luckily, Hazel had her best friend Trice, and Robbie, Trice’s older brother. For years Hazel has a crush on Robbie, but he never saw her, was always dating other girls. To complete her studies, Hazel has moved to Europe, but now she’s back in Australia after having spent four years in London. She still has feelings for Robbie, but she has promised herself to guard her heart, she can’t survive another heartache.
“When does the line disappear and you become more than friends? I am hoping that I have etched it deep enough into the sand to never blow away.”
Robbie is the cocky guy in class, confident, in for fun. Until his twenties he is all about the parties, the girls and stuff. It isn’t until one kiss Robbie realizes Hazel, his sister’s best friend, means much more to him then he cares to admit. But he’s too late, she’s moving away to London and won’t be back any time soon. Finally knowing what he wants – or more who he wants – Robbie gets his act together and starts working on his plans for the future. Plans that include Hazel.. Having her back in Melbourne is one thing, convince her of his love for her is a second..
“I need some space. I am too close to her. I can’t trust that I won’t try to touch her. To feel her soft skin under my fingertips. To watch that blush stain her cheeks as she smiles at me before glancing away.”
Hazel and Robbie have known each other since high school. As Trice’s best friend, Hazel was always around but Robbie never saw her as more than a good friend to his sister and himself. One moment changes everything, and Robbie still is beating himself up for letting Hazel go. But now she’s back, and even works for Robbie at his new bar, The Emerald Vixen. Hazel still loves Robbie, but she has seen him with so many girlfriends. She’s afraid to be just another girl for him, to lose the friendship they have. Slowly, Hazel starts to let Robbie in, and they finally have their shot at something real and beautiful.
Like the other books I’ve read by M.R. Field, Splinters is a ‘from friends to lovers’ story. Poor Hazel has been through a lot with her horrible family and treasures the friendships she has with other people. It’s understandable she doesn’t want to ruin her friendship with Robbie; yes, she loves him but she doesn’t want to lose him. Robbie is a determined, sweet man; after realizing Hazel is the woman for him, he makes sure he’s ready for when she returns to Australia. It was good so see bits and pieces of Alex and Trice (Fragments), and to see Trinity and Theo still dance around each other (their story is told in Fractures).
“Several moments will pass you by throughout your life, but standing right here, kissing the woman of my dreams will be one of those memories that will transcend all others.”
I love Hazel and Robbie, and their story. I give Splinters 4.5 stars.
www.mariekesbooks.com
September 28, 2015
..I wanna be your Farfalla Robbie ;)
So, I had been looking forward to this book since I read Fragments, and was so excited when I received my review copy. Like I knew it was gonna be good, but heck I didn't expect it to knock me of my feet. IT WAS THAT GOOD.
The story of Robbie & Hazel can relate to most girls younger life's, I mean everyone has had a crush on there friend's older brother right?
Yet, that is all it is suppose to be, a fantasy. However, our Hazel here was lucky enough to have the feelings returned...but she was so blind to it.
Gah, throw in a whole load of heat, heart ache, heart fluttering, swooning and you have got one kick-ass story. At one point I had to put the Kindle down as I felt like I was gonna have an anxiety attack... M.R Field keeps you enthralled in this incredible journey and it's a ride you do not want to miss.
Once again, Te Amo M.R Field <3
September 28, 2015
5 AMAZING Stars
I was lucky enough to beta read this with M. R Field and let me tell you that she is back and better than ever in Splinters.
Here we follow Robbie & Hazels story and what a story it is (new book boyfriend alert)
I loved this from start to end, it was perfect and had all the right elements to keep you on your toes and not want to put it down.
MR Field sure knows how to write a story that comes to life and hits home on so many levels that you actually can connect and relate to it, which for me I LOVE that about a book, there is nothing better than that!
She is definitely an author to read if you haven't yet and one to keep your eye on for future reads.
Add to your TRB now
I was lucky enough to beta read this with M. R Field and let me tell you that she is back and better than ever in Splinters.
Here we follow Robbie & Hazels story and what a story it is (new book boyfriend alert)
I loved this from start to end, it was perfect and had all the right elements to keep you on your toes and not want to put it down.
MR Field sure knows how to write a story that comes to life and hits home on so many levels that you actually can connect and relate to it, which for me I LOVE that about a book, there is nothing better than that!
She is definitely an author to read if you haven't yet and one to keep your eye on for future reads.
Add to your TRB now
October 1, 2015
Splinters is a f*cking masterpiece! If I could quote the entire book, I would. This story has captured me in all sense. Till date, I have never come across such a beautiful story. M. R. Field is a fantastic writer! Gosh, her writing will make you beg for more. Her characters make you feel as if you are a part of their world.
We have our main character, Hazel Winters who has always been ignored by her family. But there is someone out there who she loves. But she is too scared to take a step ahead.
Robbie Vera, the man who is perfect in his very own sense. I am actually at a loss of words at the moment.
Hazel and Robbie's story cannot be justified with words. Truly,I want to kiss M.R.Field and salute her imagination for creating this story. Splinters will take you on a long journey and by the end, you would wish that it never ended.
Regret, hard work, romance, steamy scenes, anger, love - this is what the book will make you feel. There are the very emotions that the characters go through. I love the fact that we have so many supporting characters in the book, especially Nonna. We don't get to see much of her, but you respect that woman. Nonna's scene made me cry.
Robbie realized his mistake and planned something that would help him win Hazel back. He showed her his true side, and Hazel? She took that leap. She wanted it. Hazel wanted to take that risk and have no regrets.
I'm amazed at how perfectly this story has been executed. I turned the pages over, back and forth to see if I had missed something when I reached the end. I didn't want it to end. Oh, and not only this, now I have the need to find my own Tesoro
Maybe, one day, I can be someone's Farfalla *winks*
Well, this is what M.R.Field does.
We have our main character, Hazel Winters who has always been ignored by her family. But there is someone out there who she loves. But she is too scared to take a step ahead.
Robbie Vera, the man who is perfect in his very own sense. I am actually at a loss of words at the moment.
Hazel and Robbie's story cannot be justified with words. Truly,I want to kiss M.R.Field and salute her imagination for creating this story. Splinters will take you on a long journey and by the end, you would wish that it never ended.
Regret, hard work, romance, steamy scenes, anger, love - this is what the book will make you feel. There are the very emotions that the characters go through. I love the fact that we have so many supporting characters in the book, especially Nonna. We don't get to see much of her, but you respect that woman. Nonna's scene made me cry.
Robbie realized his mistake and planned something that would help him win Hazel back. He showed her his true side, and Hazel? She took that leap. She wanted it. Hazel wanted to take that risk and have no regrets.
I'm amazed at how perfectly this story has been executed. I turned the pages over, back and forth to see if I had missed something when I reached the end. I didn't want it to end. Oh, and not only this, now I have the need to find my own Tesoro
Maybe, one day, I can be someone's Farfalla *winks*
Well, this is what M.R.Field does.
September 28, 2015
4.5 stars
This book brought up a lot of emotions in me. I really enjoyed reading it.
After getting a taste of Hazel and Robbie in Fragments, I was really glad to hear they were getting their own story, and it did not disappoint. Yes, Fragments gave us a bit of a spoiler to this one, but it didn’t get in the way of my enjoyment of it.
In Fragments we met Trice and Alex. Now we have Trice’s brother and Alex’s best friend Robbie, along with Trice’s best friend Hazel. Both these leads are just so engaging and easy for me to love.
Hazel - she was strong, yet vulnerable. My heart went out to her. The treatment she gets from so many different directions is truly appalling, and it was just honestly hard to imagine that some of the supporting characters could be as awful as they were. I’ll bite my tongue from saying more. I love the fact that she was a performer and the strength and confidence she gets from that. She was a dedicated friend and
Have to admit - I fell in love with Robbie, I loved him even more than I loved Alex in Book 1. He was sweet, intense and somewhat introverted which I always love. The extent of his feelings for Hazel and the way he held on to those feelings throughout the years is really touching to see, and I love the way he fights for her and it was so good seeing the way they are when they’re together. Their chemistry was sweet, scorching, it was so good.
MR Field did a great job with this novel. So far the series is only getting better, I love the snippets we get of the other characters, and I am really looking forward to the next instalment. It promises to be full of fireworks!
This book brought up a lot of emotions in me. I really enjoyed reading it.
After getting a taste of Hazel and Robbie in Fragments, I was really glad to hear they were getting their own story, and it did not disappoint. Yes, Fragments gave us a bit of a spoiler to this one, but it didn’t get in the way of my enjoyment of it.
In Fragments we met Trice and Alex. Now we have Trice’s brother and Alex’s best friend Robbie, along with Trice’s best friend Hazel. Both these leads are just so engaging and easy for me to love.
Hazel - she was strong, yet vulnerable. My heart went out to her. The treatment she gets from so many different directions is truly appalling, and it was just honestly hard to imagine that some of the supporting characters could be as awful as they were. I’ll bite my tongue from saying more. I love the fact that she was a performer and the strength and confidence she gets from that. She was a dedicated friend and
Have to admit - I fell in love with Robbie, I loved him even more than I loved Alex in Book 1. He was sweet, intense and somewhat introverted which I always love. The extent of his feelings for Hazel and the way he held on to those feelings throughout the years is really touching to see, and I love the way he fights for her and it was so good seeing the way they are when they’re together. Their chemistry was sweet, scorching, it was so good.
MR Field did a great job with this novel. So far the series is only getting better, I love the snippets we get of the other characters, and I am really looking forward to the next instalment. It promises to be full of fireworks!
September 21, 2015
*Arc kindly provided by MR Field *
4 estrelitas.
Splinters é o segundo livro da série Running on Empty. Apesar de ser standalone aconselho a leitura prévia de Fragments pois o casal surge nessa história.
Splinters narra a história do Robbie e da Hazel. Ele é o irmão mais velho da melhor amiga dela e desde novos que ambos se conhecem e nutrem sentimentos mútuos de amor inocente, porém ele é imaturo e prefere brincar com o fato da Hazel ser ruiva e envergonhar-se com facilidade, ficando vermelha como se fosse a sua natureza. Nesta picardia de adolescentes, floresce uma amizade e um amor escondido por ela por pensar não ser correspondido. Os anos passam - se e depois de se separarem devido aos estudos - ela parte da Austrália para Inglaterra - quando a Hazel volta o Robbie, agora maduro pelos anos, percebe que quer conquistar a Hazel.
Uma história de segundas chances e amor de amigos que ao longo do tempo tornou-se mais. Robbie e Hazel são fofos.
Contudo ao ler este livro os meus pensamentos perdiam - se na vontade de ler o casal que fará parte do próximo livro pois desde o primeiro livro que fiquei curiosa.
4 estrelitas.
Splinters é o segundo livro da série Running on Empty. Apesar de ser standalone aconselho a leitura prévia de Fragments pois o casal surge nessa história.
Splinters narra a história do Robbie e da Hazel. Ele é o irmão mais velho da melhor amiga dela e desde novos que ambos se conhecem e nutrem sentimentos mútuos de amor inocente, porém ele é imaturo e prefere brincar com o fato da Hazel ser ruiva e envergonhar-se com facilidade, ficando vermelha como se fosse a sua natureza. Nesta picardia de adolescentes, floresce uma amizade e um amor escondido por ela por pensar não ser correspondido. Os anos passam - se e depois de se separarem devido aos estudos - ela parte da Austrália para Inglaterra - quando a Hazel volta o Robbie, agora maduro pelos anos, percebe que quer conquistar a Hazel.
Uma história de segundas chances e amor de amigos que ao longo do tempo tornou-se mais. Robbie e Hazel são fofos.
Contudo ao ler este livro os meus pensamentos perdiam - se na vontade de ler o casal que fará parte do próximo livro pois desde o primeiro livro que fiquei curiosa.
September 28, 2015
ERIN'S REVIEW
4 STARS
I love a great friends to lovers romance! Robbie and Hazel are wonderful characters. They have both had feelings they have regretted not acting on. Robbie is a determined man who is doing all he can to bring Hazel back to him. Hazel is tired of waiting around for things to happen. She is determined to shake things up and get Robbie to notice her. These characters drew me in from the start. I love how the author went back to give more detail into their friendship. The book is very well written. Amazing details and descriptions. I love the friendships in this story. Everyone is very close-knit and there to back each other up. I absolutely fell in love with Robbie’s character. The lengths he was willing to go to for Hazel were astounding. Hazel had a very rough childhood and Robbie was someone she could always count on to try to brighten her day. I love that they were able to keep that aspect of their friendship through the years they spent apart. I am hoping there will be several more in this series!
4 STARS
I love a great friends to lovers romance! Robbie and Hazel are wonderful characters. They have both had feelings they have regretted not acting on. Robbie is a determined man who is doing all he can to bring Hazel back to him. Hazel is tired of waiting around for things to happen. She is determined to shake things up and get Robbie to notice her. These characters drew me in from the start. I love how the author went back to give more detail into their friendship. The book is very well written. Amazing details and descriptions. I love the friendships in this story. Everyone is very close-knit and there to back each other up. I absolutely fell in love with Robbie’s character. The lengths he was willing to go to for Hazel were astounding. Hazel had a very rough childhood and Robbie was someone she could always count on to try to brighten her day. I love that they were able to keep that aspect of their friendship through the years they spent apart. I am hoping there will be several more in this series!
October 15, 2016
Splinters, the second standalone in the Running on Empty series, is an amazing emotional story. Beautifully written and so descriptive that it played like a movie in my mind as I read it and experienced it.
Hazel has always secretly loved Robbie, her best friend's brother. But his manwhore ways and her insecurities keep them at a distance. After being away following her dream of a dancing career, a disillusioned Hazel returns to work for Robbie.
"The dread of disappointment lingers across my skin. How can he want me so much when all he will do is leave me like the others?"
I loved this second chance story and really enjoyed all the twists and turns as Robbie fights to prove his love and help Hazel overcome her past so that they can build a future.
"My eyes sting from the tears I’ve shed and my face is dry from the marks they’ve left, trailing down my cheeks. I don’t know how long we’ve sat here. All I do know is that my heart feels torn in two. Have I been here hours? Or minutes? Heartbreak is timeless."
Hazel has always secretly loved Robbie, her best friend's brother. But his manwhore ways and her insecurities keep them at a distance. After being away following her dream of a dancing career, a disillusioned Hazel returns to work for Robbie.
"The dread of disappointment lingers across my skin. How can he want me so much when all he will do is leave me like the others?"
I loved this second chance story and really enjoyed all the twists and turns as Robbie fights to prove his love and help Hazel overcome her past so that they can build a future.
"My eyes sting from the tears I’ve shed and my face is dry from the marks they’ve left, trailing down my cheeks. I don’t know how long we’ve sat here. All I do know is that my heart feels torn in two. Have I been here hours? Or minutes? Heartbreak is timeless."
September 27, 2015
I absolutely loved 'Fragments' and didn't think it was possible to even match it but M.R. has succeeded in creating another beautiful story but different to 'Fragments'.
Hazel and Robbie's romance has been years in the making. It is amazing that Hazel has become such a beautiful, confident person on the inside and out when you consider her treatment at the hands of her family - treatment that only gets worse. Robbie felt the need to become successful in the hopes of winning her family over but they can't be won over. It is only when they realise that it is only their love for each other that matters can they find their peace together, with lots of surprises along the way.
A beautifully written story and M.R. has taken the time to let their story unfold at its own pace, which makes it a first class read. I am in awe of this series, the characters, location and most of all M.R.'s writing.
***Reviewed for LBM Book Blog***
Hazel and Robbie's romance has been years in the making. It is amazing that Hazel has become such a beautiful, confident person on the inside and out when you consider her treatment at the hands of her family - treatment that only gets worse. Robbie felt the need to become successful in the hopes of winning her family over but they can't be won over. It is only when they realise that it is only their love for each other that matters can they find their peace together, with lots of surprises along the way.
A beautifully written story and M.R. has taken the time to let their story unfold at its own pace, which makes it a first class read. I am in awe of this series, the characters, location and most of all M.R.'s writing.
***Reviewed for LBM Book Blog***
September 26, 2015
Title: Splinters (Book 2)
Series Name: Running On Empty
Author: M.R. Field
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Stars: 4.5
Heat: Level 3
“To me, you are soft, delicate and beautiful. Fragile and in need of protection.” She sighs and shivers. Her eyes are hooded as she runs the tip of her tongue along the corner of her bottom lip. If that isn’t an invitation to go to her, then I don’t know what is.”
Splinters will lift you off of your feet and carry to bed surrounded by red roses and soft candles. It’s seductive yet sweet but not overly so. It strikes the perfect balance between sassy and sweet thanks to fully realized characters and plot. Splinters is a story with humor, wit, love and heartache. Author M.R. Field has done a superb job creating the sexual tension between Hazel, the beautiful girl with the emerald eyes, and Robbie, the gorgeous boy with the panty-melting smile. Thankfully, we are rewarded fairly early in the story when the tension is dropped and the heat is turned up full blast.
Hazel
I’ve spent my younger years acting, safe in a world of make-believe. I learnt to transform into roles to hold onto a sense of harmony in my life.
Years later, still in that moment, I am another face. Another mask. I am not me—the forgotten daughter, the quiet friend, the unrequited love.
Until the pretending becomes meaningless.
And my life hardens again.
I’m tired of acting for my friends when my parents ignore me. I’m tired of acting for myself when I want the world to stop being so hard. I’m tired of holding back from the only man I’ve ever loved.
Even though being drawn to him petrifies me above all else.
When I act to him, he sees right through me.
Each and every time.
Robbie
She has haunted my dreams for years. The girl I teased to watch her blush. The girl I watched in quiet agony. The girl I had a chance with, one I ruined when I pushed her away.
Now, after all these years, she’s returning to work for me. A ruse to make her mine.
I will show her that she deserves to be cherished, and loved. I’ll bring back that goddess who took my breath away when I was twenty.
You only live once. Side by side, I only want this final lifetime spent with her.
Who can’t relate to a story of unrequited love? (If you can’t, consider yourself lucky.) But this is what makes Hazel’s and Robbie’s journey so rewarding. I found myself on the verge of tears a few times, especially the way Hazel was tormented and bullied by her two older sisters as a teenager or how she’s treated by her selfish and ambivalent parents. I detested her siblings and parents just as much as I loved the fiery, adorable Hazel, who is clearly the black sheep in her family.
Hazel and Robbie’s close friends round out a stellar cast of supporting characters who only add to the storyline. The alternating point of views — from Hazel and Robbie — works brilliantly throughout the story.
“Are you mine, now?” I ask, gazing into the emerald pools that have captured my thoughts and haunted my dreams for years. “Yes.” She’s panting and before I can move to her, she surprises me and grabs my shirt and pulls me close.”
Splinters is a standalone book and the second in the Running on Empty series, no cliff hanger. It’s a well-written, entertaining, great modern love story that’s steamy enough to satisfy all readers.
ARC Provided by Give Me Books. Honest review done by Zoe Starr for Alpha Book Club without influence from publisher or author.
Series Name: Running On Empty
Author: M.R. Field
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Stars: 4.5
Heat: Level 3
“To me, you are soft, delicate and beautiful. Fragile and in need of protection.” She sighs and shivers. Her eyes are hooded as she runs the tip of her tongue along the corner of her bottom lip. If that isn’t an invitation to go to her, then I don’t know what is.”
Splinters will lift you off of your feet and carry to bed surrounded by red roses and soft candles. It’s seductive yet sweet but not overly so. It strikes the perfect balance between sassy and sweet thanks to fully realized characters and plot. Splinters is a story with humor, wit, love and heartache. Author M.R. Field has done a superb job creating the sexual tension between Hazel, the beautiful girl with the emerald eyes, and Robbie, the gorgeous boy with the panty-melting smile. Thankfully, we are rewarded fairly early in the story when the tension is dropped and the heat is turned up full blast.
Hazel
I’ve spent my younger years acting, safe in a world of make-believe. I learnt to transform into roles to hold onto a sense of harmony in my life.
Years later, still in that moment, I am another face. Another mask. I am not me—the forgotten daughter, the quiet friend, the unrequited love.
Until the pretending becomes meaningless.
And my life hardens again.
I’m tired of acting for my friends when my parents ignore me. I’m tired of acting for myself when I want the world to stop being so hard. I’m tired of holding back from the only man I’ve ever loved.
Even though being drawn to him petrifies me above all else.
When I act to him, he sees right through me.
Each and every time.
Robbie
She has haunted my dreams for years. The girl I teased to watch her blush. The girl I watched in quiet agony. The girl I had a chance with, one I ruined when I pushed her away.
Now, after all these years, she’s returning to work for me. A ruse to make her mine.
I will show her that she deserves to be cherished, and loved. I’ll bring back that goddess who took my breath away when I was twenty.
You only live once. Side by side, I only want this final lifetime spent with her.
Who can’t relate to a story of unrequited love? (If you can’t, consider yourself lucky.) But this is what makes Hazel’s and Robbie’s journey so rewarding. I found myself on the verge of tears a few times, especially the way Hazel was tormented and bullied by her two older sisters as a teenager or how she’s treated by her selfish and ambivalent parents. I detested her siblings and parents just as much as I loved the fiery, adorable Hazel, who is clearly the black sheep in her family.
Hazel and Robbie’s close friends round out a stellar cast of supporting characters who only add to the storyline. The alternating point of views — from Hazel and Robbie — works brilliantly throughout the story.
“Are you mine, now?” I ask, gazing into the emerald pools that have captured my thoughts and haunted my dreams for years. “Yes.” She’s panting and before I can move to her, she surprises me and grabs my shirt and pulls me close.”
Splinters is a standalone book and the second in the Running on Empty series, no cliff hanger. It’s a well-written, entertaining, great modern love story that’s steamy enough to satisfy all readers.
ARC Provided by Give Me Books. Honest review done by Zoe Starr for Alpha Book Club without influence from publisher or author.
September 27, 2015
Great Group of Friends
Splinters is the second book in the Running On Empty series and while I didn't read the first, it read well as a stand alone. M.R. Field does a great job at explaining each character and how they got to the point they are at when this book takes place.
Hazel has loved Robbie from afar for years while being best friends with his sisters. She doesn't have the greatest home life, so she counts her friends as more of a family. Wanting to pursue a career that her parents don't approve of and knowing she will never get Robbie's attention, Hazel leaves her hometown in Australia for the UK to make something of herself.
“My family has a knack for leaving a mark. They tend to leave good ones, too, ignoring my pain while their words cover me in splinters. I think I’ve gotten over them, and plucked them all out, but all I find is another one and the scars return and bury deeper.” ~ Hazel
Robbie has also loved Hazel from afar for years. He would catch her glancing his way often, but didn't think he was good enough for a girl like her, so he manwhored around and really turned her off. After a chance encounter goes south, he is a bit relieved to see Hazel go so he can finally clean up his act and win back the girl of his dreams.
“... I held onto him. But he never had me, Robbie. I was too far gone for you. Even with you slutting around, I couldn’t seem to let go of you, and I tried. But I failed spectacularly.” ~ Hazel
Hazel never really let Robbie go. While she's gone, they strike up a text and email friendship to stay in touch and little did they know, to help each other through some tough times. Hazel is no closer to her family than before she left, however is brought back to home by somebody that loves her for her and not what she has pretended to be.
Splinters is a well written second chance romance. I got a kick out of the Aussie slang the friends threw out from time to time. While a little slow in the beginning, towards the middle M.R. Field throws her readers a bit of a curve ball and kicks the book into high gear until the end.
Reviewed for Renee Entress's Blog.
Splinters is the second book in the Running On Empty series and while I didn't read the first, it read well as a stand alone. M.R. Field does a great job at explaining each character and how they got to the point they are at when this book takes place.
Hazel has loved Robbie from afar for years while being best friends with his sisters. She doesn't have the greatest home life, so she counts her friends as more of a family. Wanting to pursue a career that her parents don't approve of and knowing she will never get Robbie's attention, Hazel leaves her hometown in Australia for the UK to make something of herself.
“My family has a knack for leaving a mark. They tend to leave good ones, too, ignoring my pain while their words cover me in splinters. I think I’ve gotten over them, and plucked them all out, but all I find is another one and the scars return and bury deeper.” ~ Hazel
Robbie has also loved Hazel from afar for years. He would catch her glancing his way often, but didn't think he was good enough for a girl like her, so he manwhored around and really turned her off. After a chance encounter goes south, he is a bit relieved to see Hazel go so he can finally clean up his act and win back the girl of his dreams.
“... I held onto him. But he never had me, Robbie. I was too far gone for you. Even with you slutting around, I couldn’t seem to let go of you, and I tried. But I failed spectacularly.” ~ Hazel
Hazel never really let Robbie go. While she's gone, they strike up a text and email friendship to stay in touch and little did they know, to help each other through some tough times. Hazel is no closer to her family than before she left, however is brought back to home by somebody that loves her for her and not what she has pretended to be.
Splinters is a well written second chance romance. I got a kick out of the Aussie slang the friends threw out from time to time. While a little slow in the beginning, towards the middle M.R. Field throws her readers a bit of a curve ball and kicks the book into high gear until the end.
Reviewed for Renee Entress's Blog.
October 7, 2015
A great friends to lovers book with lots of sexual tension. We meet Robbie and Hazel in the previous book as part of the group of friends, there was a some history between them and it had an unrequited feel at some parts. I'm glad these two were able to sort it out.
Robbie and Trice's family made this much more fun, Nonnna especially. But to see the other side of Hazel's b****y sisters and neglectful parents you realize that sometimes family can be other people too. This book I think mainly focuses on Hazel and her transformation, to find her self worth and confidence after years of experiencing being put down continuously. She had a great support system and that helped.
This also set up other future possible story lines and gave a look at some other friends lives as years past the last book making the the story go on. Robbie also turned out to be sweet after everything, also can't help his also caveman tendencies which was funny in a way. M.R. Field really brought out my empathy towards Hazel and the things she went through, it would be awesome to see the next book with Theo and Trin.
Robbie and Trice's family made this much more fun, Nonnna especially. But to see the other side of Hazel's b****y sisters and neglectful parents you realize that sometimes family can be other people too. This book I think mainly focuses on Hazel and her transformation, to find her self worth and confidence after years of experiencing being put down continuously. She had a great support system and that helped.
This also set up other future possible story lines and gave a look at some other friends lives as years past the last book making the the story go on. Robbie also turned out to be sweet after everything, also can't help his also caveman tendencies which was funny in a way. M.R. Field really brought out my empathy towards Hazel and the things she went through, it would be awesome to see the next book with Theo and Trin.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 28, 2015
Who says chivalry is dead? Oh no, meet Robbie Vera and you meet a man who knows what he wants and will go beyond his wildest dreams to make that happen.
Hazel is a strong and very talented woman who learns to overcome the lemons life has thrown her.
Distance may have separated them for a time but when Hazel returns to Australia it's time to let down her guard and let love in.
Romantic, sexy, dramatic, funny and loaded with a cast of characters that will make you want more. I laughed, got teary eyed, got angry and all the things in between that wonderful stories are made of. Fun Aussi-isms that make you go "hmm?" are sprinkled throughout adding flair and flavor to the story's location.
I thoroughly enjoyed the second novel just as much as Fragments, M R Field's first novel. All the same characters I loved in the first make their bold appearances and snarky remarks in Splinters as well as a few more that have joined their family of friends.
While Splinters can be read as a stand alone, I highly recommend reading Fragments as well. You want a book you can feel good about when you turn the last page? This is the one.
Hazel is a strong and very talented woman who learns to overcome the lemons life has thrown her.
Distance may have separated them for a time but when Hazel returns to Australia it's time to let down her guard and let love in.
Romantic, sexy, dramatic, funny and loaded with a cast of characters that will make you want more. I laughed, got teary eyed, got angry and all the things in between that wonderful stories are made of. Fun Aussi-isms that make you go "hmm?" are sprinkled throughout adding flair and flavor to the story's location.
I thoroughly enjoyed the second novel just as much as Fragments, M R Field's first novel. All the same characters I loved in the first make their bold appearances and snarky remarks in Splinters as well as a few more that have joined their family of friends.
While Splinters can be read as a stand alone, I highly recommend reading Fragments as well. You want a book you can feel good about when you turn the last page? This is the one.
September 29, 2015
I love a great friends to lovers romance! Robbie and Hazel are wonderful characters. They have both had feelings they have regretted not acting on. Robbie is a determined man who is doing all he can to bring Hazel back to him. Hazel is tired of waiting around for things to happen. She is determined to shake things up and get Robbie to notice her. These characters drew me in from the start. I love how the author went back to give more detail into their friendship. The book is very well written. Amazing details and descriptions. I love the friendships in this story. Everyone is very close-knit and there to back each other up. I absolutely fell in love with Robbie’s character. The lengths he was willing to go to for Hazel were astounding. Hazel had a very rough childhood and Robbie was someone she could always count on to try to brighten her day. I love that they were able to keep that aspect of their friendship through the years they spent apart. I am hoping there will be several more in this series!
Reviewed for FMR Book Grind
Reviewed for FMR Book Grind
September 9, 2015
***ARC gifted by author in exchange for an honest review***
Rated 4 stars!
I absolutely love Robbie and Hazel!! I really felt a connection to them and I felt like their interactions with each other and with the other characters in the book. I loved the way they fought and the way they loved so fiercely! At one point when they are fighting and Hazel runs off, Robbie goes after her and refuses to give her space. In so many books the characters back away and that makes for (in my opinion) unnecessary angst.
My one issue with this book was that, having read the first book, I already knew what was going to happen in Hazel and Robbie's life. The epilogue of Fractures spoiled her next two books. So when the huge climax of the book takes place... It lacked suspense since I knew what the end of their story was.
Bottom line this author is becoming a better writer with each book she writes, and I'm sure Fractures will be even better.
~ Renee
Rated 4 stars!
I absolutely love Robbie and Hazel!! I really felt a connection to them and I felt like their interactions with each other and with the other characters in the book. I loved the way they fought and the way they loved so fiercely! At one point when they are fighting and Hazel runs off, Robbie goes after her and refuses to give her space. In so many books the characters back away and that makes for (in my opinion) unnecessary angst.
My one issue with this book was that, having read the first book, I already knew what was going to happen in Hazel and Robbie's life. The epilogue of Fractures spoiled her next two books. So when the huge climax of the book takes place... It lacked suspense since I knew what the end of their story was.
Bottom line this author is becoming a better writer with each book she writes, and I'm sure Fractures will be even better.
~ Renee
September 9, 2015
I absolutely love these characters! I really felt a connection to them and I felt like their interactions with each other and with the other characters in the book. I loved the way they fought and the way they loved so fiercely! At one point when they are fighting and Hazel runs off, Robbie goes after her and refuses to give her space. In so many books the characters back away and that makes for (in my opinion) unnecessary angst.
My one issue with this book was that, having read the first book, I already knew what was going to happen in Hazel and Robbie's life. The epilogue of Fractures spoiled her next two books. So when the huge climax of the book takes place... It lacked suspense since I knew what the end of their story was.
Bottom line this author is becoming a better writer with each book she writes, and I'm sure Fractures will be even better.
My one issue with this book was that, having read the first book, I already knew what was going to happen in Hazel and Robbie's life. The epilogue of Fractures spoiled her next two books. So when the huge climax of the book takes place... It lacked suspense since I knew what the end of their story was.
Bottom line this author is becoming a better writer with each book she writes, and I'm sure Fractures will be even better.
September 17, 2015
A beautiful story about a second chance with the love that got away. This story is packed with so much emotion and has a twist that I didn't see coming. It is heartwarming to see Robbie and Hazel's relationship go from the playful banter to a love story of such epic proportions. I was so immersed into the story that I didn't want to put it down. Robbie is so sweet, loving and compassionate. Hazel is the perfect match for Robbie. She is her own person but together they are electric with chemistry that is off the charts. They always had a undeniable connection and I was glad that their relationship come to fruition. Another amazing story by M.R. Field. She keeps growing as a writer and is a author that you don't want to miss!
September 28, 2015
I received a ARC from the author in exchange for a honest review.
4* read.
Splinters is a standalone but the second in the Running on Empty series.
This is Robbie and Hazels story. I loved these two as a couple I connected straight away with them and fell in love with their story. Hazel has loved Robbie for years but he doesn't think he's good enough for her so she leaves for a while but does end up coming back. This is a second chance love with the one that got away. To see their relationship develop was really beautiful to read as they are perfect for each other and that comes across in this story as well as a few surprises too.
A beautifully wrote book pact full of emotions, I'm looking forward to the next one.
4* read.
Splinters is a standalone but the second in the Running on Empty series.
This is Robbie and Hazels story. I loved these two as a couple I connected straight away with them and fell in love with their story. Hazel has loved Robbie for years but he doesn't think he's good enough for her so she leaves for a while but does end up coming back. This is a second chance love with the one that got away. To see their relationship develop was really beautiful to read as they are perfect for each other and that comes across in this story as well as a few surprises too.
A beautifully wrote book pact full of emotions, I'm looking forward to the next one.
September 29, 2015
Oh how I adored Hazel. The sweet girl tormented and neglected as a teenager by those who should have loved her and made it out the other side just so very special. The girl who has a second chance at love with the guy who was once the boy who pushed her away. Theirs is a story of two people finding their way back to each other, walking through so much, and holding on to what matters most. I so enjoyed their story.
I give Splinters 4 hearts!
I give Splinters 4 hearts!
March 21, 2016
ARC for honest review.
A great second chance romance and a great read for my first read by this author. I definitely will be reading her others.
The characters drew me in from the beginning and I loved the flashbacks to their past together. They are a sweet, fun couple that draw you in emotionally too.
The only thing I found was that it was very predictable. It didn't take away from the story, I still enjoyed it, I just like to be kept guessing.
A great second chance romance and a great read for my first read by this author. I definitely will be reading her others.
The characters drew me in from the beginning and I loved the flashbacks to their past together. They are a sweet, fun couple that draw you in emotionally too.
The only thing I found was that it was very predictable. It didn't take away from the story, I still enjoyed it, I just like to be kept guessing.
September 16, 2015
ARC copy for honest review.
Robbie and Hazel...what can I say I LOVE THEM!!! It was hot, funny and entertaining. I can't wait for more from Ms Field!!
I'm terrible at writing reviews, I know I don't do it justice BUT YOU HAVE TO BUY THIS BOOK!!
Robbie and Hazel...what can I say I LOVE THEM!!! It was hot, funny and entertaining. I can't wait for more from Ms Field!!
I'm terrible at writing reviews, I know I don't do it justice BUT YOU HAVE TO BUY THIS BOOK!!
September 29, 2015
* I received this book in exchange for an honest review!
I really enjoyed this book! Reading this book was like a rollercoaster ride. Robbie and Hazel are a great couple. Robbie will do anything for Hazel. Hazel has a horrible family life and is afraid to let someone in.
I really enjoyed this book! Reading this book was like a rollercoaster ride. Robbie and Hazel are a great couple. Robbie will do anything for Hazel. Hazel has a horrible family life and is afraid to let someone in.
March 2, 2017
It took me a while to get through Splinters. Not because it wasn't good, life just got in the way... This might have affected my experience with this book, since I didn't connect with it the same way I did Fragments... That said, when I finally had the time and headspace to finish this book, I gulped down the last half of the book in one sitting...
In Splinters Robbie and Hazel are older, their problems more severe in a way. M. R. Field portrays this beautifully and leaves me with a sweet calm in my heart...
The guys in this story are still hot, the girls still sassy and I can't wait to read on in the next installment, Fractures...
In Splinters Robbie and Hazel are older, their problems more severe in a way. M. R. Field portrays this beautifully and leaves me with a sweet calm in my heart...
The guys in this story are still hot, the girls still sassy and I can't wait to read on in the next installment, Fractures...
January 21, 2019
La primera instalación me gustó más pero esta igual es una lectura entretenida con una historia linda y personajes que ya conocemos y queremos.
Lo que si quiero es leer la historia de Trinity!
Lo que si quiero es leer la historia de Trinity!
March 3, 2017
This second book in the series follows Hazel, Beatrice's friend, and Robbie, Beatrice's brother. We met them in the first book and just knew that something was going to happen between them.
I enjoyed their story with its heat and bit of suspense to it. I must say, Hazel's family made me so angry while Robbie's family made me love them even more.
I enjoyed their story with its heat and bit of suspense to it. I must say, Hazel's family made me so angry while Robbie's family made me love them even more.
November 21, 2019
4.5/5 STARS
See my review in French here
Well, if I loved Fragments, Splinters was eve better!!!
It was a pleasure getting back with all this bunch of friends and lovers…
In Fragments, we got some hints about Hazel’s crush, and Robbie bantering and gentle jokes every time he got the chance.
I really wanted to know more about those two, and this book was perfect: it has all I expected, and more.
In this book, we’ll see a delicate Hazel getting stronger, bolder, and even heroic in the worst moments of her life.
And what about Robbie….. doing plans for years for her Farfalla, building a whole business so she can do what she loves the most and just “shine”.
And of course M. R. Filed’s writing! That means the right pace, great characters, the perfect mix of love, angst, suspense, passion, steam and pure love. So much devotion. From both, and for each other…
So Splinters being my second book of this author, another great reading, I just couldn’t stop here, so I grabbed Fractures, the third in the Series… because I just can’t wait to live Trin and Theo’s story!!
***ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review***
Visit my French blog: https://isalacroqueusedelivres.wordpr...
See my review in French here
Well, if I loved Fragments, Splinters was eve better!!!
It was a pleasure getting back with all this bunch of friends and lovers…
In Fragments, we got some hints about Hazel’s crush, and Robbie bantering and gentle jokes every time he got the chance.
I really wanted to know more about those two, and this book was perfect: it has all I expected, and more.
In this book, we’ll see a delicate Hazel getting stronger, bolder, and even heroic in the worst moments of her life.
And what about Robbie….. doing plans for years for her Farfalla, building a whole business so she can do what she loves the most and just “shine”.
And of course M. R. Filed’s writing! That means the right pace, great characters, the perfect mix of love, angst, suspense, passion, steam and pure love. So much devotion. From both, and for each other…
So Splinters being my second book of this author, another great reading, I just couldn’t stop here, so I grabbed Fractures, the third in the Series… because I just can’t wait to live Trin and Theo’s story!!
***ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review***
Visit my French blog: https://isalacroqueusedelivres.wordpr...
September 30, 2015
Splinters is the first book I've read by this author, so I wasn't sure what to expect. Let me tell you, this story blew me away!
Hazel didn't have a great childhood. With patents that ignored her, and 2 hateful sisters always putting her down, she doesn't have a lot of self confidence, except when she's on stage pretending to be someone else. Her low self worth has kept her from admitting her feelings for her best friends brother that she's had since they were kids. Robbie has been kicking himself for years because he pushed Hazel away. Now she's coming back to work for him, and he hopes to rectify his past mistakes. Will he convince Hazel that they're perfect for each other?
I LOVED this story from beginning to end. It has all the elements to make it an EPIC read. M.R. Field wrote spot on character development, and I found them extremely relatable. Her well written storyline was highly addicting and flowed perfectly. The suspense built up slowly, until it escalated to a throat punch, and the intense chemistry of Hazel & Robbie had me having hot flashes all over the place. Well done M.R. Field, for keeping my heart racing the whole time. I'm a new fan, and I happily highly recommend to all.
Hazel didn't have a great childhood. With patents that ignored her, and 2 hateful sisters always putting her down, she doesn't have a lot of self confidence, except when she's on stage pretending to be someone else. Her low self worth has kept her from admitting her feelings for her best friends brother that she's had since they were kids. Robbie has been kicking himself for years because he pushed Hazel away. Now she's coming back to work for him, and he hopes to rectify his past mistakes. Will he convince Hazel that they're perfect for each other?
I LOVED this story from beginning to end. It has all the elements to make it an EPIC read. M.R. Field wrote spot on character development, and I found them extremely relatable. Her well written storyline was highly addicting and flowed perfectly. The suspense built up slowly, until it escalated to a throat punch, and the intense chemistry of Hazel & Robbie had me having hot flashes all over the place. Well done M.R. Field, for keeping my heart racing the whole time. I'm a new fan, and I happily highly recommend to all.
October 3, 2015
I love Robbie! Yeap just chalk him up to add in the book boyfriend list. It was more than just a love story. It was self discovery, finding true love, suspense, and of course it was hot! What I really enjoyed to was the other characters. Getting some insight into their everyday lives and romances. Makes you want to read their stories too. But with Robbie and hazel it was fun, exciting, sweet and just makes you gulp in a lung full of air and sigh. You can just feel the love and that makes it so much more addicting.
October 4, 2015
i enjoyed this, it wasn't as angsty as i was expecting but it was still pretty entertaining...
October 5, 2015
A sweet read
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