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Remembering Kyle #2
Last Wish
Nothing feels right. Not since my best friend died and I fucked up the one promise he asked me to make. The past follows me everywhere, tangling me up like weeds, reminding me that my life is empty. So fucking empty.
Then she walks into the bar, all bright beauty and sweet lips made for kissing.
Em Stewart is a complication...one I need to avoid. She’s got heavy secrets of her own, ones she hides from her friends—and lies about to herself.
No matter how hard I try, I can't resist her, and our unexpected road trip sure as hell isn’t helping my cause. But I’ll be damned if I screw up my first chance at something real...
standalone
Then she walks into the bar, all bright beauty and sweet lips made for kissing.
Em Stewart is a complication...one I need to avoid. She’s got heavy secrets of her own, ones she hides from her friends—and lies about to herself.
No matter how hard I try, I can't resist her, and our unexpected road trip sure as hell isn’t helping my cause. But I’ll be damned if I screw up my first chance at something real...
standalone
Paperback
First published December 28, 2015
About the author
Erin Butler
8 books107 followersErin Butler is lucky enough to have two jobs she truly loves. As a librarian, she gets to work with books all day long, and as an author, Erin uses her active imagination to write the kinds of books she loves to read. Young Adult and New Adult books are her favorites, but she especially fangirls over a sigh-worthy romance.
She lives in Central New York with her very understanding husband, a stepson, and doggie BFF, Maxie. Preferring to spend her time indoors reading or writing, she'll only willingly go outside for chocolate and sunshine--in that order.
Erin is the author of HOW WE LIVED and LAST WISH, contemporary NA novels, and the YA contemporary romance titles, FINDING MR. DARCY: HIGH SCHOOL EDITION and FALLING FOR SHAKESPEARE. Find out more about her at www.erinbutlerbooks.com or @ErinButler on Twitter! You can also sign up for her newsletter here: http://eepurl.com/bylfx9
She lives in Central New York with her very understanding husband, a stepson, and doggie BFF, Maxie. Preferring to spend her time indoors reading or writing, she'll only willingly go outside for chocolate and sunshine--in that order.
Erin is the author of HOW WE LIVED and LAST WISH, contemporary NA novels, and the YA contemporary romance titles, FINDING MR. DARCY: HIGH SCHOOL EDITION and FALLING FOR SHAKESPEARE. Find out more about her at www.erinbutlerbooks.com or @ErinButler on Twitter! You can also sign up for her newsletter here: http://eepurl.com/bylfx9
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
December 3, 2015
Ronan aka Bear made his friend a promise. He promised he would always take care of his friend Kyle's sister Kelsey. But Kelsey didn't want that and Ronan had some trouble figuring out what he was supposed to do. He wants to honor Kyle's memory so he is a messed up guy.
(I'm with the story right now and actually like the book)
Em is out at the bar with her girlfriends. She is seeing an asshole and her friends want her to get laid and forget his rotten behind. He has taken off to be with his parents after uninviting Em on that same trip.
Em happens to run into Ronan and his brother at the same bar. Ronan and Em had been friends through out highschool, so they hang out. Just happens to be that Em is Kelsey's best friend.
Confused yet?
There isn't really any hope. I was just kidding!
Em heads off on a road trip to meet up with asshole boyfriend after talking to Ronan. He tells her to follow her heart. Her heart gets her in some bad stuff. She then needs Ronan to come and save the day.
So on the way back home..some touchy feely stuff starts between Ronan and Em.
There is talk of waiting until she has gotten over the boyfriend that she drove all that way to see and Ronan to work out his own problems...but that last's for about two seconds.
I felt old reading this book. I hate to admit that quite badly. These characters just came across as so very young. They were working and in college and all that stuff. But damn, they are some more kinda dumb.
They were dumb! Sorry.
Not sorry.
I do have a few things I did like about this book. No real insta-love. They had known each other for years previously. No weird names for sexual stuff. (I hate that shit when it happens)
But that end up. So much hate for it. I would have actually gave the book a three star, but that was really the worst. It's like the author really got tired of writing and just said "let's do this". DID NOT LIKE.
I feel old and cheated out of a good smexy time book.
Booksource: I received a copy of this book in exchange for review from Netgalley.
There are only three other reviews up for this book. So I'm just picking the five star one to highlight right here because I probably did read this book wrong.
(I'm with the story right now and actually like the book)
Em is out at the bar with her girlfriends. She is seeing an asshole and her friends want her to get laid and forget his rotten behind. He has taken off to be with his parents after uninviting Em on that same trip.
Em happens to run into Ronan and his brother at the same bar. Ronan and Em had been friends through out highschool, so they hang out. Just happens to be that Em is Kelsey's best friend.
Confused yet?
There isn't really any hope. I was just kidding!
Em heads off on a road trip to meet up with asshole boyfriend after talking to Ronan. He tells her to follow her heart. Her heart gets her in some bad stuff. She then needs Ronan to come and save the day.
So on the way back home..some touchy feely stuff starts between Ronan and Em.
There is talk of waiting until she has gotten over the boyfriend that she drove all that way to see and Ronan to work out his own problems...but that last's for about two seconds.
I felt old reading this book. I hate to admit that quite badly. These characters just came across as so very young. They were working and in college and all that stuff. But damn, they are some more kinda dumb.
They were dumb! Sorry.
Not sorry.
I do have a few things I did like about this book. No real insta-love. They had known each other for years previously. No weird names for sexual stuff. (I hate that shit when it happens)
But that end up. So much hate for it. I would have actually gave the book a three star, but that was really the worst. It's like the author really got tired of writing and just said "let's do this". DID NOT LIKE.
I feel old and cheated out of a good smexy time book.
Booksource: I received a copy of this book in exchange for review from Netgalley.
There are only three other reviews up for this book. So I'm just picking the five star one to highlight right here because I probably did read this book wrong.
December 28, 2015
This is the second book in the Remembering Kyles and although it can totally be read as a standalone, the author does a great job of explaining events leading up to this story but you will probably be curious about Chase and Kelsey’s story from the first book.
Last Wish deals with Ronan as he deals with the aftermath of his best friend’s death and his unfulfilled promise to take care of his sister, Kelsey. Kelsey is in a relationship with Chase, the man responsible for his friend’s death. Kelsey has put forward an ultimatum that he either forgives Chase and accepts their relationship or loses her friendship. Obviously he’s dealing with many feelings of guilt and loss when he runs into Em at a bar.
Em is also a friend of Kelsey’s and she’s always been the cute and quirky friend. She’s had a crush on Ronan forever but he never noticed her as anything other than the fun girl who used to hang around with them. When Em finds herself stranded after a disastrous trip to surprise her asshole of a boyfriend, Ronan comes to her rescue and the set off on an impromptu road trip.
This was such a cute and heart-warming little romance. I just adored these two together as they are each pretty broken up but both are trying to save the other. Em is the fun loving, optimistic girl and she was absolutely perfect for Ronan who has been on a downward spiral of anger, depression and self-hate ever since Kyle died.
I loved that everything happened pretty quickly in this book and Ronan’s gestures of kindness in trying to cheer up Em after her break-up was absolutely adorable. The book serves up some very hot sexy times but as their relationship progresses there are also some suspenseful moments and a gasp or two in store courtesy of secondary characters.
I ate up every word of this book and this would have been a five star read for me, but I just really wished there was more of it. There are some aspects of the story that I wished was dealt with more in depth but nevertheless it left me with a lump in my throat at the end. Just a really sweet and romantic book.
(ARC provided by author via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review)
Last Wish deals with Ronan as he deals with the aftermath of his best friend’s death and his unfulfilled promise to take care of his sister, Kelsey. Kelsey is in a relationship with Chase, the man responsible for his friend’s death. Kelsey has put forward an ultimatum that he either forgives Chase and accepts their relationship or loses her friendship. Obviously he’s dealing with many feelings of guilt and loss when he runs into Em at a bar.
Em is also a friend of Kelsey’s and she’s always been the cute and quirky friend. She’s had a crush on Ronan forever but he never noticed her as anything other than the fun girl who used to hang around with them. When Em finds herself stranded after a disastrous trip to surprise her asshole of a boyfriend, Ronan comes to her rescue and the set off on an impromptu road trip.
This was such a cute and heart-warming little romance. I just adored these two together as they are each pretty broken up but both are trying to save the other. Em is the fun loving, optimistic girl and she was absolutely perfect for Ronan who has been on a downward spiral of anger, depression and self-hate ever since Kyle died.
I loved that everything happened pretty quickly in this book and Ronan’s gestures of kindness in trying to cheer up Em after her break-up was absolutely adorable. The book serves up some very hot sexy times but as their relationship progresses there are also some suspenseful moments and a gasp or two in store courtesy of secondary characters.
I ate up every word of this book and this would have been a five star read for me, but I just really wished there was more of it. There are some aspects of the story that I wished was dealt with more in depth but nevertheless it left me with a lump in my throat at the end. Just a really sweet and romantic book.
(ARC provided by author via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review)
December 29, 2015
We're in a small College town - everybody knows everybody else's business.
And everybody knows that Ronan's best friend Kyle died about a year ago. And everybody - including Ronan - now hates Chase. One person doesn't though: Kelsey. Kyle's sister. She's in love with Chase.
And Ronan can't understand and approve. He promised to keep Kelsey safe. How can he do that when she wants to be with Chase. Or is Chase not the bad guy everybody thinks he is?
Kelsey & Chase's story has been told in How We Lived ! I wish I had known that before reading this book :(
Ronan hasn't really lived since Kyle died.
But now there Kelsey's best friend Em. She's not letting him suffer in silence.
Somehow he ends up on a road-trip with her. (After rescuing her from being stranded on the road - after finally leaving her violent idiot of a boyfriend.)
Ronan is really attracted to Em, and she seems to be the first person to finally draw him out of his grief. She makes him want to start living again.
But of course there's the fact that he might only be her rebound - and there's also the fact that her ex Nate hasn't given up on her yet...
WHAT WILL HAPPEN TO Em & Ronan???
WILL THEre be a Happy Ever After for them??
WILL THERE BE A HORRIBLE CLIFFHANGER?
I'm not telling you that ☺
of course there's no Cliffy ☺
═════════════════════════════════
I really enjoyed this book.
I just wish someone would've mentioned that Kelsey & Chase's story had already been told in a previous book!!! I hate when that happens to me - I want to know everything there is to know about everything when I start a new book :/
Of course it's not really necessary to know the first book - this is a standalone - but still.
I just one-clicked the first book and will read it right after this one ☺
LAST WISH was a really cute romance.
Ronan is this sad, cute guy.
And Em, with her bully of a boyfriend.
She's been kind of in love with Ronan since they were little.
But he never saw her like that.
But now that she broke up with Nate (Nate might not know that yet, though) she might have a chance with Ronan - but he doesn't seem all too willing to start something. He's still grieving, and probably still in love with Kelsey.
Only he never was in love with her. He just promised to protect her.
But Em is just too adorable for him to resist.
And he really needs someone to pull him out of his mourning!
LAST WISH was a very moving and cute romance!!! GO & one-click yourself some Ronan!!!!!
January 6, 2016
An ARC was provided by Negalley and the publisher in exchange of an honest review
Ronan is an amazing guy. He promised his best friend, Kyle that he will take care of his sister, Kesley and it came through as, “Date Kesley.” However, Kesley was and is in love with Chase. Ronan felt like he was a mess because of he wasn’t able to fulfill Kyle’s Last wish… or that’s what he thought.
Em is Kesley’s best friend. She went on a trip to meet her boyfriend however, it turned into a disaster, and now all she has were bruises and a car with a flat tire. She then called her best friend to help her go home but she’s kind of busy and her best friend called for Ronan to help Em instead.
So, Ronan came and rescue Em.
----
I actually gave this book 4 stars last night, however, I was really torn between “2” and “4” stars that’s why I settled for three.
Don’t get me wrong. I loved the book. I really did, there were however some issues that is a bit off for me like what happened between Kesley and Ronan or the last wish of Kyle to Ronan and Em and her asshole boyfriend, Nate.
I liked how Ronan reached out for Em. He was really there when Em needs someone to talk to. I loved how he helped Em fix herself after the things that her boyfriend did to her—the abuse and all.
Ronan and Em were both broken under different circumstances. I like the fact that they tried to fix themselves as they try to fix each other. It was an amazing book. It didn’t started with insta-love or insta-lust because they have known each other for so long and that was good.
I liked the flow of the story because the phasing was just right but it would be better if the author made the book more convincing? Or maybe she should have added more thrill in the story. There was a bit of a thrill in the last part however it was kind of off-tangent for me. Plus, since it can be read as standalone, I think it lacks details about the characters.
so there, 3 out of 5 stars for me.
----
Ugh. I really need to have a break for these 3-stars read!
Ronan is an amazing guy. He promised his best friend, Kyle that he will take care of his sister, Kesley and it came through as, “Date Kesley.” However, Kesley was and is in love with Chase. Ronan felt like he was a mess because of he wasn’t able to fulfill Kyle’s Last wish… or that’s what he thought.
Em is Kesley’s best friend. She went on a trip to meet her boyfriend however, it turned into a disaster, and now all she has were bruises and a car with a flat tire. She then called her best friend to help her go home but she’s kind of busy and her best friend called for Ronan to help Em instead.
So, Ronan came and rescue Em.
----
I actually gave this book 4 stars last night, however, I was really torn between “2” and “4” stars that’s why I settled for three.
Don’t get me wrong. I loved the book. I really did, there were however some issues that is a bit off for me like what happened between Kesley and Ronan or the last wish of Kyle to Ronan and Em and her asshole boyfriend, Nate.
I liked how Ronan reached out for Em. He was really there when Em needs someone to talk to. I loved how he helped Em fix herself after the things that her boyfriend did to her—the abuse and all.
Ronan and Em were both broken under different circumstances. I like the fact that they tried to fix themselves as they try to fix each other. It was an amazing book. It didn’t started with insta-love or insta-lust because they have known each other for so long and that was good.
I liked the flow of the story because the phasing was just right but it would be better if the author made the book more convincing? Or maybe she should have added more thrill in the story. There was a bit of a thrill in the last part however it was kind of off-tangent for me. Plus, since it can be read as standalone, I think it lacks details about the characters.
so there, 3 out of 5 stars for me.
----
Ugh. I really need to have a break for these 3-stars read!
December 28, 2015
I’m just going to keep this review short and sweet. Last Wish is another one of those books that grabbed my curiosity because of the cover. I was intrigued by the story-line, so I decided to give it a try.
What can I say about Last Wish? When I first started reading the story, it was a little bumpy for me, but the characters were interesting enough and had me wanting to know more about them. Once I got into the story, I really liked Em and Ronan together. I thought they had some good chemistry. I really enjoyed the story once these two got together and thought their relationship was really sweet. I will say that this story does deal with some difficult subject matter, and I appreciated the way the author handled it.
However, I did have a few problems with this book. Em really drove me nuts. I really didn’t like the story-line with her boyfriend. I understand that it was an important part of the story, but if you’re going to have a villain in the story, let’s have him create some more drama. Yes, there is a lot of drama with him towards the end of the story, but I feel that we needed a little more from him in the beginning; maybe a little more background into his and Em’s relationship, just to help connect me to these characters a little more. I also was a little confused by what was going on with Kelsey and Ronan. They used to be boyfriend and girlfriend, but now they’re not. They can’t be around each other and things are weird. At times, I felt like maybe they weren’t quiet over each other, which was weird, since Kelsey had moved on. I guess what I needed was just more development of the story-line and characters. What was there was good and had potential, I just needed a little more from it.
Overall, I thought this was an ok read for me. There was some things that worked for me and some things that did not. I think that this author has a lot of potential with her writing and I would be open to reading another book from her in the future.
*I was provided an ARC copy of this book, via NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review*
What can I say about Last Wish? When I first started reading the story, it was a little bumpy for me, but the characters were interesting enough and had me wanting to know more about them. Once I got into the story, I really liked Em and Ronan together. I thought they had some good chemistry. I really enjoyed the story once these two got together and thought their relationship was really sweet. I will say that this story does deal with some difficult subject matter, and I appreciated the way the author handled it.
However, I did have a few problems with this book. Em really drove me nuts. I really didn’t like the story-line with her boyfriend. I understand that it was an important part of the story, but if you’re going to have a villain in the story, let’s have him create some more drama. Yes, there is a lot of drama with him towards the end of the story, but I feel that we needed a little more from him in the beginning; maybe a little more background into his and Em’s relationship, just to help connect me to these characters a little more. I also was a little confused by what was going on with Kelsey and Ronan. They used to be boyfriend and girlfriend, but now they’re not. They can’t be around each other and things are weird. At times, I felt like maybe they weren’t quiet over each other, which was weird, since Kelsey had moved on. I guess what I needed was just more development of the story-line and characters. What was there was good and had potential, I just needed a little more from it.
Overall, I thought this was an ok read for me. There was some things that worked for me and some things that did not. I think that this author has a lot of potential with her writing and I would be open to reading another book from her in the future.
*I was provided an ARC copy of this book, via NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review*
December 28, 2015
Last Wish is the second book in Erin Butler’s New Adult Remembering Kyle series. I read it as a stand alone as I had not read the previous book. It’s written in first person and head jumps between the two main characters, sometimes within the same chapter. However, this POV works and was enjoyable. The author is highly skilled in grabbing the reader and pulling her into the story. Our heroine, “Em," starts the book by ending a terrible, abusive relationship. She finds herself stranded after a bizarre and silly car accident. Her rescuer, Ronan, is an old high school crush. Ronan is a classic angsty tortured hero in need of rescue from his bruised and battered heart.
The relationship between our main characters built quickly, helped by the fact they’d known each other for a long time in a classic friends to lovers trope. Unlike many contemporary romances, it’s not just about sex, which was refreshing. The author sparkles in her ability to weave emotional, complex characters. But the ending twist for this story about two battered characters seemed rushed and illogical.
The characters in this novel and their story do work as a stand alone, but I was terribly frustrated by not understanding what happened in the past. It drove me nuts. We get inferences, but it felt like something big was missing. So, I must recommend read the first in the series before tackling this one.
Overall fun and fast read.
*Book received from publisher in exchange for an honest review*
The relationship between our main characters built quickly, helped by the fact they’d known each other for a long time in a classic friends to lovers trope. Unlike many contemporary romances, it’s not just about sex, which was refreshing. The author sparkles in her ability to weave emotional, complex characters. But the ending twist for this story about two battered characters seemed rushed and illogical.
The characters in this novel and their story do work as a stand alone, but I was terribly frustrated by not understanding what happened in the past. It drove me nuts. We get inferences, but it felt like something big was missing. So, I must recommend read the first in the series before tackling this one.
Overall fun and fast read.
*Book received from publisher in exchange for an honest review*
December 28, 2015
Read the full review on Bookaholics Not-So-Anonymous.
Note: This ARC was provided by Entangled Publishing in exchange for an honest review.
Before Ronan Pearse came along, the triumvirate of Kyle and Kelsey Larkin and Chase Crowley was one that was deeply entrenched. They had the kind of history that any outsider and wishful newcomer could probably never compete with. So, there was a part of me that felt for Ronan (and yes, I'm calling him "Ronan" instead of "Bear" because another series that I love also has a lead character nicknamed "Bear") and I couldn't help but wonder if he had any insecurities regarding Kyle's friendship with Chase and if that was yet another reason he cut ties with the latter. But after having read this sequel, I saw clearly where Ronan was coming from and I absolutely understood why he did what he did with Kelsey and why he felt what he felt toward Chase. The poor guy was mired by what he believed was the responsibility placed upon him by Kyle and felt that that this was the best way for him to repay Kyle for the life-changing friendship he offered Ronan when they were just kids. Then Em Stewart came along when he needed someone most.
Em's story is one that sparked frustration in me but I more than appreciated that she neither played the victim nor misplaced the blame of what happened to her. Her situation is the kind that many of us too easily pre-judge and claim what we would do right (meaning what she did was wrong), but every situation is different, and while I didn't totally agree with how she handled it, she proved just how strong she was by not allowing herself to wallow and knowing when to finally walk away. She may have had her own issues to deal with, as did Ronan, but they were exactly what the other one needed. They may have known each other for years, but they didn't have the kind of history that Kelsey and Chase shared, thus allowing themselves to create their own and truly start fresh with one another. I loved both books and how they are tied together by the continuing memory of Kyle, who may no longer be able to have a story to tell, but the one he left behind is one worth remembering. Last Wish surpassed all of my expectations. Five-plus stars. ♥
Note: This ARC was provided by Entangled Publishing in exchange for an honest review.
Before Ronan Pearse came along, the triumvirate of Kyle and Kelsey Larkin and Chase Crowley was one that was deeply entrenched. They had the kind of history that any outsider and wishful newcomer could probably never compete with. So, there was a part of me that felt for Ronan (and yes, I'm calling him "Ronan" instead of "Bear" because another series that I love also has a lead character nicknamed "Bear") and I couldn't help but wonder if he had any insecurities regarding Kyle's friendship with Chase and if that was yet another reason he cut ties with the latter. But after having read this sequel, I saw clearly where Ronan was coming from and I absolutely understood why he did what he did with Kelsey and why he felt what he felt toward Chase. The poor guy was mired by what he believed was the responsibility placed upon him by Kyle and felt that that this was the best way for him to repay Kyle for the life-changing friendship he offered Ronan when they were just kids. Then Em Stewart came along when he needed someone most.
Em's story is one that sparked frustration in me but I more than appreciated that she neither played the victim nor misplaced the blame of what happened to her. Her situation is the kind that many of us too easily pre-judge and claim what we would do right (meaning what she did was wrong), but every situation is different, and while I didn't totally agree with how she handled it, she proved just how strong she was by not allowing herself to wallow and knowing when to finally walk away. She may have had her own issues to deal with, as did Ronan, but they were exactly what the other one needed. They may have known each other for years, but they didn't have the kind of history that Kelsey and Chase shared, thus allowing themselves to create their own and truly start fresh with one another. I loved both books and how they are tied together by the continuing memory of Kyle, who may no longer be able to have a story to tell, but the one he left behind is one worth remembering. Last Wish surpassed all of my expectations. Five-plus stars. ♥
December 1, 2015
Em Stewart has found herself stuck in a miserable relationship, with a man who is not who she thought he was, and who continually makes her feel like she is not worthy of love and happiness. When she shows up to surprise him on his vacation, she finds herself once again on the receiving end of his abuse, and for her that is the last straw, she has finally had enough and is ready to head back home and let him go. But after a minor accident she finds herself stranded, and not sure who to call to come rescue her, so she turns to her friend, never expecting her to send Em's high school crush to be her knight in a shining armor in a tow truck...
Ronan is man with a battered and bruised heart, and is in great need of someone to bring peace and happiness back into his life. He is struggling with the death of his best friend and the loss of friendship he had with two very important people in his life. His family has been trying to bring him out of his depression, but no matter what they try he chooses to continue to sulk in the privacy of his apartment. When a friend needs his help, his father encourages him to go help her, in hopes that it will give him a sense of purpose again, and possibly bring him back to reality. He decides to go never expecting it to completely change the course of his life...
This story captivated my attention almost immediately, Em and Ronan pulled me right into their world and had me hanging onto to their every word. The story line was packed with so much intensity and emotion, that at times I could literally feel the power of every word, as if I was right there in the story with them feeling everything. I can honestly say that this was one of the best introductions to a new author that I have had in a long time, Ms. Butler took me on a emotional literary journey that I am sure will be lingering with me for a long while. She is truly a master at her craft, and a author that I think everyone should add to their reading list!
Highly recommend you meet Ronan and Em, they are sure to provide you with one amazing literary escape, and have you blushing a time or two!!
ARC requested through NetGalley, and kindly provided by Entangled Publishing in exchange for a honest and unbiased review.
Ronan is man with a battered and bruised heart, and is in great need of someone to bring peace and happiness back into his life. He is struggling with the death of his best friend and the loss of friendship he had with two very important people in his life. His family has been trying to bring him out of his depression, but no matter what they try he chooses to continue to sulk in the privacy of his apartment. When a friend needs his help, his father encourages him to go help her, in hopes that it will give him a sense of purpose again, and possibly bring him back to reality. He decides to go never expecting it to completely change the course of his life...
This story captivated my attention almost immediately, Em and Ronan pulled me right into their world and had me hanging onto to their every word. The story line was packed with so much intensity and emotion, that at times I could literally feel the power of every word, as if I was right there in the story with them feeling everything. I can honestly say that this was one of the best introductions to a new author that I have had in a long time, Ms. Butler took me on a emotional literary journey that I am sure will be lingering with me for a long while. She is truly a master at her craft, and a author that I think everyone should add to their reading list!
Highly recommend you meet Ronan and Em, they are sure to provide you with one amazing literary escape, and have you blushing a time or two!!
ARC requested through NetGalley, and kindly provided by Entangled Publishing in exchange for a honest and unbiased review.
December 20, 2015
Original review can be found at http://kristineandterri.blogspot.ca/2...
** I received an advanced readers copy from Entangled Publishing via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!**
This book is the second book in the Remembering Kyle series but can be read as a standalone. I did not have the opportunity to read How We Lived before reading Last Wish and I was able to follow along. The problem I had though, was that I was constantly curious about what happened before and I wanted to know more of the back story. It really intrigued me.
Unlike a lot of books in this genre, there was no denying the attraction for pages and pages. Ronan and Em gave in to their attraction relatively easily. They didn't pretend it was something different but at the same time they were both dealing with a lot of baggage while pursuing the relationship. Ronan was still realing from the death of his best friend and the promise that he made to him and Em was dealing with an abusive ex boyfriend.
Last Wish was a very quick and very easy book to read. The relationship between Ronan and Em built quickly, the story moved even quicker and then it ended just as quickly. It ended maybe a little bit too fast for my liking. It felt like I missed something or that an entire piece of the puzzle was missing. Without giving any spoilers it felt like an entire part of the conflict resolution was skipped in order to get to the ending.
I enjoyed this story for what it was, a quick an entertaining new adult romance. Even though it was a standalone I do think that I would have benefited and that other readers will benefit from reading How We Lived first. I just had too many questions about what happened before Ronan and Em to fully appreciate them. Also, I found that the story kept going to Chase so I wanted to know his full story.
** I received an advanced readers copy from Entangled Publishing via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!**
This book is the second book in the Remembering Kyle series but can be read as a standalone. I did not have the opportunity to read How We Lived before reading Last Wish and I was able to follow along. The problem I had though, was that I was constantly curious about what happened before and I wanted to know more of the back story. It really intrigued me.
Unlike a lot of books in this genre, there was no denying the attraction for pages and pages. Ronan and Em gave in to their attraction relatively easily. They didn't pretend it was something different but at the same time they were both dealing with a lot of baggage while pursuing the relationship. Ronan was still realing from the death of his best friend and the promise that he made to him and Em was dealing with an abusive ex boyfriend.
Last Wish was a very quick and very easy book to read. The relationship between Ronan and Em built quickly, the story moved even quicker and then it ended just as quickly. It ended maybe a little bit too fast for my liking. It felt like I missed something or that an entire piece of the puzzle was missing. Without giving any spoilers it felt like an entire part of the conflict resolution was skipped in order to get to the ending.
I enjoyed this story for what it was, a quick an entertaining new adult romance. Even though it was a standalone I do think that I would have benefited and that other readers will benefit from reading How We Lived first. I just had too many questions about what happened before Ronan and Em to fully appreciate them. Also, I found that the story kept going to Chase so I wanted to know his full story.
December 22, 2015
This ebook was different from what I was expecting. For me, that is a good thing. I love it when an author steps away from the safe route and adds in a bit of spark and stirs the pot a bit in the story.
This one did just that by including some mystery to the storyline that keeps your interested perked up. You have to read between the lines for the first 1/3 of the book to try and figure out some of the plot that happened behind the scenes. Something bad happened; this you know. Friends are separated. Hearts are hurting. Your interest is peaked to keep on going.
And there is some heat building up. The looks; the memories; the recognition that maybe, just maybe, your heart can be opened again. That memories don't have to be bad and good memories can be added along the way.
*Sigh*
The author did a great job with the crafting of this book. It is not just sex and love... although there is nothing wrong with that! But there is emotion and feelings and you are right there with the characters as they try to figure out their path to happiness. Parts are a bit shocking but speak to the current atmosphere of the world today.
Ms. Butler created a pleasurable combination of love, friendship, and new beginnings in this young adult romance. Enjoyable and memorable. This is an author to watch for more great things to come!
This one did just that by including some mystery to the storyline that keeps your interested perked up. You have to read between the lines for the first 1/3 of the book to try and figure out some of the plot that happened behind the scenes. Something bad happened; this you know. Friends are separated. Hearts are hurting. Your interest is peaked to keep on going.
And there is some heat building up. The looks; the memories; the recognition that maybe, just maybe, your heart can be opened again. That memories don't have to be bad and good memories can be added along the way.
*Sigh*
The author did a great job with the crafting of this book. It is not just sex and love... although there is nothing wrong with that! But there is emotion and feelings and you are right there with the characters as they try to figure out their path to happiness. Parts are a bit shocking but speak to the current atmosphere of the world today.
Ms. Butler created a pleasurable combination of love, friendship, and new beginnings in this young adult romance. Enjoyable and memorable. This is an author to watch for more great things to come!
December 30, 2015
While Last Wish can technically be read as a stand alone, I highly recommend you read the first book in the series, How We Lived, before reading this. The book will be confusing at the beginning without all the background info from it. I was really looking forward to Ronan's book. He was dealing with so much survivor's guilt I wasn't sure how Erin Butler get him to move past it, but I was pretty sure it would be an interesting and emotional ride. Em ended up being absolutely perfect for Ronan. She brings her own baggage to the party, but these two broken characters managed to find a way to repair each other. There were serious doses of angst here, but they were handled well and I very much enjoyed watching Em snd Ronan find each other and together work through their demons.
A copy was provided by the publisher via NetGalley in e change for an honest review.
A copy was provided by the publisher via NetGalley in e change for an honest review.
December 28, 2015
I found this was to be an ok read.
We have Em and Ronan, having met years ago through mutual friends, but never really being friends, just acquaintances. But suddenly he’s noticing her more and more, and Em had always had a crush on him, so little by little their relationship started to change and grow.
They were great together and all (loved how he treated her, especially after her past with her ex, the ass), but there was just something about them that never truly clicked for me. I really couldn’t love them as much as I wanted and that made the story sort of drag for me from time to time.
It wasn’t a bad read, I just couldn’t connect very much with them.
*Thank you to Entangled Publishing for providing an ARC in exchange of my honest opinion*
We have Em and Ronan, having met years ago through mutual friends, but never really being friends, just acquaintances. But suddenly he’s noticing her more and more, and Em had always had a crush on him, so little by little their relationship started to change and grow.
They were great together and all (loved how he treated her, especially after her past with her ex, the ass), but there was just something about them that never truly clicked for me. I really couldn’t love them as much as I wanted and that made the story sort of drag for me from time to time.
It wasn’t a bad read, I just couldn’t connect very much with them.
*Thank you to Entangled Publishing for providing an ARC in exchange of my honest opinion*
December 11, 2015
An awesome story that picks up right where How We Lived left us. Ronan (aka Bear) is still struggling with the death of his friend Kyle and the fact Kelsey, Kyle's sister, is now dating the person responsible for Kyle's death. How can he keep his promise to Kyle to protect his sister like this????
Emily "Em" Stewart is temptation. One he needs to avoid but she's light to his dark and he finds himself drawn to her. Em has secrets though. Problems he can't even imagine. When Kelsey sends Bear on a rescue mission to help Em, he finds that he can't stay away and he doesn't want to. What he wants to to help her and keep her safe.
I highly recommend this one!
Emily "Em" Stewart is temptation. One he needs to avoid but she's light to his dark and he finds himself drawn to her. Em has secrets though. Problems he can't even imagine. When Kelsey sends Bear on a rescue mission to help Em, he finds that he can't stay away and he doesn't want to. What he wants to to help her and keep her safe.
I highly recommend this one!
January 1, 2016
3 stars
Last Wish was an OK read for me.
The storyline was well written and while both characters were good people I found Em at times came across as weak and she got on my nerves with the way she kept things from Ronan. It created unnecessary drama and tbh the plot just didn't need it.
I also felt the ending was rushed and it wasn't as satisfying as I would have liked.
Thank you Entangled Embrace via NetGalley for the advance copy.
Last Wish was an OK read for me.
The storyline was well written and while both characters were good people I found Em at times came across as weak and she got on my nerves with the way she kept things from Ronan. It created unnecessary drama and tbh the plot just didn't need it.
I also felt the ending was rushed and it wasn't as satisfying as I would have liked.
Thank you Entangled Embrace via NetGalley for the advance copy.
December 14, 2015
Review to be posted nearer to release day
July 14, 2017
» Review can also be found on Orchids & Amethysts.
Title: Last Wish (Remembering Kyle #02)
Author: Erin Butler
Rating: 4.5/5
Thanks to Erin Butler for letting me receive a digital copy of this book before it official release date.
If you haven't read the first book in this series, How We Lived, I suggest you do that before you start reading Last Wish. Granted, it doesn't really matter, they can be read as standalones, but first things first... And I'm trying to promote Erin's books, so please do yourself a favour and read both books. If you read my review for How We Lived, you'll know how much I loved it.
And I loved Last Wish just as much, if not a little more. I can't decide. What I know is that I couldn't fall asleep after I finished it. I tossed and turned and just couldn't stop thinking about it. Images of Em and Ronan/Bear would always pop into my mind, unable to let me sleep in peace.
Before that day, I always pictured Em and Ronan, whose nickname is Bear, differently. I thought they were bitter, closed-off, hardly loveable. But of course Erin found a way to make me fall in love with them right in the beginning. Sure, I needed a page or two to get myself into the world of Remembering Kyle again. However, when I did, I didn't want to leave. I just wanted the characters' stories to go on and on (I secretly hope for something like a novella after reading the last chapter *hint*).
I felt sorry for both of them. They had to deal with so much pain. I don't even now whose past is worse, but that isn't the question here anyway. The important thing is how they move on, how they decide their future will be. And Em and Bear help each other so much. They're definitely one of my favourite couples ever. And also, Bear is about one of the sweetest guys ever created, same as Chase in How We Lived.
Oh, that reminds me - will Finn, Bear's brother, get his own story? I got curious about what's going on between him and Tina. Please, please, please.
Suddenly, I don't know what to write, afraid I'll give away too many spoilers. I can reveal that I cried while reading Last Wish. I cried and Erin offered me virtual tissues, haha. Bear told Em about his past and I just couldn't keep the tears in check, they kept pouring down my cheeks. So this is why I didn't read the book in one session, but needed two of those, almost three.
The second break would have happened if I wasn't too shocked, I wanted to know what happened next. Em's ex-boyfriend appeared and then something happened that I never would have guessed. Gosh, I can already feel the tears building in my eyes again. Seriously, this book messes with my emotions. And strangely, I enjoy it.
Today isn't a good review-writing-day for me, I'm sorry. That won't stop me from repeating how much I loved Last Wish, though. I know I'll order a phsyical copy, because I have to have this one on my shelf and I won't ever delete it from my eReader, either. I want to be able to read it again and again if I feel like it. It will happen. I'm sure of it.
Just because this is the only thing that bugged me a bit, I'll mention it. After the incident with Em's ex-boyfriend (the one that will leave you in shock), I would have liked to read more about how she dealt with that situation, what it did to her mind. Don't get me wrong, I'm glad it didn't go on for about a hundred pages, as in some novels. Only, I would have liked to read more about Em's opinion on that. I didn't mind reading about Bear's point of view on that, though.
Lastly, I want to thank Erin Butler. Sometimes, she reads my tweets about writing and she'd always encourage me to go on. And when I tweeted about not being accepted for an ARC of Last Wish, she didn't hesitate to send me one herself. I'm really thankful, Erin. Your actions make me feel loved, like I'm a real writer and a real blogger. You treat your readers with so much respect, it's impressive. Thank you for being such a wonderful lady.
Title: Last Wish (Remembering Kyle #02)
Author: Erin Butler
Rating: 4.5/5
Thanks to Erin Butler for letting me receive a digital copy of this book before it official release date.
If you haven't read the first book in this series, How We Lived, I suggest you do that before you start reading Last Wish. Granted, it doesn't really matter, they can be read as standalones, but first things first... And I'm trying to promote Erin's books, so please do yourself a favour and read both books. If you read my review for How We Lived, you'll know how much I loved it.
And I loved Last Wish just as much, if not a little more. I can't decide. What I know is that I couldn't fall asleep after I finished it. I tossed and turned and just couldn't stop thinking about it. Images of Em and Ronan/Bear would always pop into my mind, unable to let me sleep in peace.
Before that day, I always pictured Em and Ronan, whose nickname is Bear, differently. I thought they were bitter, closed-off, hardly loveable. But of course Erin found a way to make me fall in love with them right in the beginning. Sure, I needed a page or two to get myself into the world of Remembering Kyle again. However, when I did, I didn't want to leave. I just wanted the characters' stories to go on and on (I secretly hope for something like a novella after reading the last chapter *hint*).
I felt sorry for both of them. They had to deal with so much pain. I don't even now whose past is worse, but that isn't the question here anyway. The important thing is how they move on, how they decide their future will be. And Em and Bear help each other so much. They're definitely one of my favourite couples ever. And also, Bear is about one of the sweetest guys ever created, same as Chase in How We Lived.
"I am fiercely loyal. When I love, I love. When I care, I will go to the ends of the earth and back. I'll do anything."
Oh, that reminds me - will Finn, Bear's brother, get his own story? I got curious about what's going on between him and Tina. Please, please, please.
Suddenly, I don't know what to write, afraid I'll give away too many spoilers. I can reveal that I cried while reading Last Wish. I cried and Erin offered me virtual tissues, haha. Bear told Em about his past and I just couldn't keep the tears in check, they kept pouring down my cheeks. So this is why I didn't read the book in one session, but needed two of those, almost three.
The second break would have happened if I wasn't too shocked, I wanted to know what happened next. Em's ex-boyfriend appeared and then something happened that I never would have guessed. Gosh, I can already feel the tears building in my eyes again. Seriously, this book messes with my emotions. And strangely, I enjoy it.
Today isn't a good review-writing-day for me, I'm sorry. That won't stop me from repeating how much I loved Last Wish, though. I know I'll order a phsyical copy, because I have to have this one on my shelf and I won't ever delete it from my eReader, either. I want to be able to read it again and again if I feel like it. It will happen. I'm sure of it.
Just because this is the only thing that bugged me a bit, I'll mention it. After the incident with Em's ex-boyfriend (the one that will leave you in shock), I would have liked to read more about how she dealt with that situation, what it did to her mind. Don't get me wrong, I'm glad it didn't go on for about a hundred pages, as in some novels. Only, I would have liked to read more about Em's opinion on that. I didn't mind reading about Bear's point of view on that, though.
Lastly, I want to thank Erin Butler. Sometimes, she reads my tweets about writing and she'd always encourage me to go on. And when I tweeted about not being accepted for an ARC of Last Wish, she didn't hesitate to send me one herself. I'm really thankful, Erin. Your actions make me feel loved, like I'm a real writer and a real blogger. You treat your readers with so much respect, it's impressive. Thank you for being such a wonderful lady.
December 30, 2015
Ronan has avoided everything related to his old life, ever since his best friend died he can't forgive his friends, he can't move on, and he certainly doesn't want a girl around. Everything reminds him of Kyle and the promise he broke and Kelsey and the ultimatum she gave him. After a chance encounter with his old friends, it seems there's not much he can do to avoid them. After a rough encounter with her ex-boyfriend, Em is shaken and a flat tire isn't doing her any more favors either. After Kelsey convinces her that Ronan is the best solution to help her, a trip to rescue her and her car becomes a road trip. Old memories and new feelings arise between the two as Ronan finally considers living again.
This one is will leave your heart aching, but in the good kind of way. The two main characters are both going through some extremely hard things in their individual lives, but together they find happiness. Last Wish is told from the dual POV's are Ronan and Em, Erin Butler does a great job of distinguishing between the two voices and pulling you into their story. I really enjoyed reading from the dual perspectives, as Em's story and her character development is really strong and Ronan's history brings everything into this story that you may be missing if you skipped book 1 or just can't remember things. I liked reading their interactions with friends and their interactions with one another, they had some of the sweetest dialogue. There's some amazing chemistry here and while it feels a bit like insta-love, it works for these two.
The book reads really slowly at first and the first half of the book has a lot of mystery to it, you're not given a whole lot of information. However, as the story continues to develop all of the loose strings are tied up. The history between Em and Ronan is a bit hard to figure out, in fact their connection doesn't make sense for quite a while in the book. I wish some of the information we get in the second half was given earlier. I wasn't the biggest fan of the ending of this book, it was anticlimactic for me and for the growth of the relationship between Ronan and Em. The good news is, the ending isn't a cliffhanger and it wraps up the past story of Kelsey and Chase.
With enough angst, drama, and romance to make any romance reader happy, Last Wish is a great NA novel that could easily be read by anyone. Erin's writing and the characters will draw you in and keep you hanging onto every word. Though Last Wish can be read as a standalone, it is the second book in the Remember Kyle series and I highly recommend you read How We Lived first. The details of the first book are shared in Last Wish, but you'll find yourself wanting to know Chase and Kelsey's story when you meet them. It's a quick read, so I suggest you pick both up!
You can find more of my reviews on my blog, Carlene Inspired.
Many thanks to Netgalley and Entangled for providing an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
This one is will leave your heart aching, but in the good kind of way. The two main characters are both going through some extremely hard things in their individual lives, but together they find happiness. Last Wish is told from the dual POV's are Ronan and Em, Erin Butler does a great job of distinguishing between the two voices and pulling you into their story. I really enjoyed reading from the dual perspectives, as Em's story and her character development is really strong and Ronan's history brings everything into this story that you may be missing if you skipped book 1 or just can't remember things. I liked reading their interactions with friends and their interactions with one another, they had some of the sweetest dialogue. There's some amazing chemistry here and while it feels a bit like insta-love, it works for these two.
The book reads really slowly at first and the first half of the book has a lot of mystery to it, you're not given a whole lot of information. However, as the story continues to develop all of the loose strings are tied up. The history between Em and Ronan is a bit hard to figure out, in fact their connection doesn't make sense for quite a while in the book. I wish some of the information we get in the second half was given earlier. I wasn't the biggest fan of the ending of this book, it was anticlimactic for me and for the growth of the relationship between Ronan and Em. The good news is, the ending isn't a cliffhanger and it wraps up the past story of Kelsey and Chase.
With enough angst, drama, and romance to make any romance reader happy, Last Wish is a great NA novel that could easily be read by anyone. Erin's writing and the characters will draw you in and keep you hanging onto every word. Though Last Wish can be read as a standalone, it is the second book in the Remember Kyle series and I highly recommend you read How We Lived first. The details of the first book are shared in Last Wish, but you'll find yourself wanting to know Chase and Kelsey's story when you meet them. It's a quick read, so I suggest you pick both up!
You can find more of my reviews on my blog, Carlene Inspired.
Many thanks to Netgalley and Entangled for providing an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
January 2, 2016
3.25 to 3.5 I want a Bear hug Stars
So the beginning of this book had me on the fence about continuing as it felt super Young NA angsty drama. Fortunately, I powered through this first impression and it finally gripped my interest when our main character’s Em and Ronan’s relationship started to unfold.
Last Wish although a standalone follows closely the happenings of book 1 of the series, so if you don’t want to flounder with the situation I’d recommend reading that first. Since I didn’t it took me a bit to understand all the relationships at play in this one.
Ronan has been lost and hurt since his best friend died in some kind of accident while their other best friend was driving (or so I gathered from what little reference there is to the actual accident). Everything is a bit messy and effed up at this point.
In comes Em, a friend of all of them but not as close, and definitely not the quirky little girl he remembered from high school (which was like 2 years ago so this kind of felt a tiny winy bit absurd… but whatever). She is brave, free, fun and light which is everything Ronan is missing in his life right now.
Em is having problems of her own when she finally accepts she is in an abusive relationship and decides to break things off with that creep. By circumstances Ronan is the one to come to her rescue when her car breaks down, and the short road trip they share will mark a new beginning for them both.
I liked this story, the writing was good and I really liked both Em and Ronan (he was quite dreamy let me tell you, for a 21 year old anyway). But I felt the general timing was a bit off. For starters Em leaves her boyfriend and basically the next day is starting up with Ronan. While I’m all for insta-love and when you-know-you-know scenarios this felt a bit rushed. I mean she was in a verbal and physically abusive relationship, and yes, she did finally see the light and decided enough is enough but I’m not sure a nice guy saying you’re beautiful would be enough to sort your head out. The progression of their relationship was a bit fast paced too, all things considered. I still enjoyed it, I just wish they’d had a bit more time to establish it.
What almost totally killed my romance buzz I had going with the story was the complete highjack of the ending by the couple in the first book. Yes, it was sweet but that left Em and Ronan’s HEA in second place and that didn’t sit well with me. Maybe if there’d been an epilogue that focused on them this wouldn’t have happened to me. Still, I wouldn’t be averse to reading more from this author.
*I received a complimentary copy from the Publisher in exchange for an honest review*
So the beginning of this book had me on the fence about continuing as it felt super Young NA angsty drama. Fortunately, I powered through this first impression and it finally gripped my interest when our main character’s Em and Ronan’s relationship started to unfold.
Last Wish although a standalone follows closely the happenings of book 1 of the series, so if you don’t want to flounder with the situation I’d recommend reading that first. Since I didn’t it took me a bit to understand all the relationships at play in this one.
Ronan has been lost and hurt since his best friend died in some kind of accident while their other best friend was driving (or so I gathered from what little reference there is to the actual accident). Everything is a bit messy and effed up at this point.
In comes Em, a friend of all of them but not as close, and definitely not the quirky little girl he remembered from high school (which was like 2 years ago so this kind of felt a tiny winy bit absurd… but whatever). She is brave, free, fun and light which is everything Ronan is missing in his life right now.
Em is having problems of her own when she finally accepts she is in an abusive relationship and decides to break things off with that creep. By circumstances Ronan is the one to come to her rescue when her car breaks down, and the short road trip they share will mark a new beginning for them both.
I liked this story, the writing was good and I really liked both Em and Ronan (he was quite dreamy let me tell you, for a 21 year old anyway). But I felt the general timing was a bit off. For starters Em leaves her boyfriend and basically the next day is starting up with Ronan. While I’m all for insta-love and when you-know-you-know scenarios this felt a bit rushed. I mean she was in a verbal and physically abusive relationship, and yes, she did finally see the light and decided enough is enough but I’m not sure a nice guy saying you’re beautiful would be enough to sort your head out. The progression of their relationship was a bit fast paced too, all things considered. I still enjoyed it, I just wish they’d had a bit more time to establish it.
What almost totally killed my romance buzz I had going with the story was the complete highjack of the ending by the couple in the first book. Yes, it was sweet but that left Em and Ronan’s HEA in second place and that didn’t sit well with me. Maybe if there’d been an epilogue that focused on them this wouldn’t have happened to me. Still, I wouldn’t be averse to reading more from this author.
*I received a complimentary copy from the Publisher in exchange for an honest review*
December 9, 2015
3, yet so close to a 4 Star review
This is the second book from Butler's Remembering Kyle Series and sort of takes off from How We Lived. This is Bear's story. He is still reeling from Kelsey getting together with Chase and he still can't forgive Chase for his role in Kyle's death. He runs into Emily, Kelsey's best friend, at a bar and they start to talk. When Em runs into some problems after dealing with her scumbag boyfriend, Kelsey gets Bear to drive hours to save Em.
During their trip, the two get to know each other better and Em finds herself struggling because she is getting out of an abusive relationship and yet she can't keep her eyes off Ronan(Bear). Em had crushed on him for years in high school and he looks even better now. He also treats her much better than her now ex-boyfriend.
By the end of the car trip back home the two have been intimate and within a matter of what seems like only days Ronan is taking Em to meet the family. Before you know it the two are declaring their love for each other. As you can tell, it moves along a little quickly and despite them knowing each other for years this was too much of an insta love story for me to really embrace their relationship.
There is the side story of Em still dealing with her ex and his craziness. While the ending was a little predictable, it took a twist I never would have imagined. This is where I really get bugged by the story. Ronan has a hard time dealing with what he feels is his role in what happens to Em and he backs away from her. Complete radio silence. This is just not okay. Oh, and yeah, while this is going on, it seems he is fine with mending fences with Chase and getting all chummy with him again, all while avoiding Em.
The very end of the story really was more of a HEA for Chase and Kelsey than it was for Em and Ronan. In my opinion, Em plays the role of weak girlfriend again by being the one to go to Ronan and not one word or explanation is given about Ronan's behavior. This really ruined the story and ruined Ronan for me as a hero; it just falls short.
Thanks to NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This is the second book from Butler's Remembering Kyle Series and sort of takes off from How We Lived. This is Bear's story. He is still reeling from Kelsey getting together with Chase and he still can't forgive Chase for his role in Kyle's death. He runs into Emily, Kelsey's best friend, at a bar and they start to talk. When Em runs into some problems after dealing with her scumbag boyfriend, Kelsey gets Bear to drive hours to save Em.
During their trip, the two get to know each other better and Em finds herself struggling because she is getting out of an abusive relationship and yet she can't keep her eyes off Ronan(Bear). Em had crushed on him for years in high school and he looks even better now. He also treats her much better than her now ex-boyfriend.
By the end of the car trip back home the two have been intimate and within a matter of what seems like only days Ronan is taking Em to meet the family. Before you know it the two are declaring their love for each other. As you can tell, it moves along a little quickly and despite them knowing each other for years this was too much of an insta love story for me to really embrace their relationship.
There is the side story of Em still dealing with her ex and his craziness. While the ending was a little predictable, it took a twist I never would have imagined. This is where I really get bugged by the story. Ronan has a hard time dealing with what he feels is his role in what happens to Em and he backs away from her. Complete radio silence. This is just not okay. Oh, and yeah, while this is going on, it seems he is fine with mending fences with Chase and getting all chummy with him again, all while avoiding Em.
The very end of the story really was more of a HEA for Chase and Kelsey than it was for Em and Ronan. In my opinion, Em plays the role of weak girlfriend again by being the one to go to Ronan and not one word or explanation is given about Ronan's behavior. This really ruined the story and ruined Ronan for me as a hero; it just falls short.
Thanks to NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
December 28, 2015
I have to say that I am so glad I read the reviews after reading this book. I might have shred away from this one because of the reviews but am so glad that I gave it a chance before that. I enjoyed this story and liked how Erin Butler did not follow the typical storyline we usually see in these books. She went her own way with it and made a great story all her own!!
Em and Ronan knew each other growing up. Em always had a crush on Ronan but never tried to advance their relationship beyond just being friends. When they meet back up after some time of not seeing each other, it was like old times for them. Em is currently in a relationship with an abusive guy that does not appreciate what he has at all. He has gone away for the weekend with his parents, he says, and told Em that they did not want her to come. She thought that was odd but went with it. When Ronan tells Em to go for what she wants, she does just that and makes a trip to where her current boyfriend is, only to find that he had lied to her again. When Em confronts him, he turns abusive again and that is when Em knows that she has to do something about this relationship. When Em goes to leave, she has a flat and no money at all to get it fixed. She calls her friend Kelsey and she knows just the person to send, Ronan. Em tries to talk Kelsey out of sending him but it is not use and soon Ronan shows up to be her hero.
After Ronan gets the car all hooked up to tow back to his dad's garage, he and Em set out on the road back home. At first things are awkward and then they seem to lighten up. Before too long, things begin to get touchy feely for these two and sparks begin to ignite. Both Em and Ronan have baggage from their pasts that they are working through, but just maybe they can help each other get through all if that. How will things turn out for Ronan and Em?? Will they overcome their pasts and start a new relationship? You need to read this one for yourself to find out!! A sweet read with a chance at new beginnings!! This story flowed really well for me and it was easy reading!!
Em and Ronan knew each other growing up. Em always had a crush on Ronan but never tried to advance their relationship beyond just being friends. When they meet back up after some time of not seeing each other, it was like old times for them. Em is currently in a relationship with an abusive guy that does not appreciate what he has at all. He has gone away for the weekend with his parents, he says, and told Em that they did not want her to come. She thought that was odd but went with it. When Ronan tells Em to go for what she wants, she does just that and makes a trip to where her current boyfriend is, only to find that he had lied to her again. When Em confronts him, he turns abusive again and that is when Em knows that she has to do something about this relationship. When Em goes to leave, she has a flat and no money at all to get it fixed. She calls her friend Kelsey and she knows just the person to send, Ronan. Em tries to talk Kelsey out of sending him but it is not use and soon Ronan shows up to be her hero.
After Ronan gets the car all hooked up to tow back to his dad's garage, he and Em set out on the road back home. At first things are awkward and then they seem to lighten up. Before too long, things begin to get touchy feely for these two and sparks begin to ignite. Both Em and Ronan have baggage from their pasts that they are working through, but just maybe they can help each other get through all if that. How will things turn out for Ronan and Em?? Will they overcome their pasts and start a new relationship? You need to read this one for yourself to find out!! A sweet read with a chance at new beginnings!! This story flowed really well for me and it was easy reading!!
December 11, 2015
LAST WISH by Erin Butler, was such a great read, I could not put it down.
The story in this book is very well written and well developed and the plot is fast paced and by the end of the book you will have laughed and cried for many different reasons. The characters in this book are very well written and make it hard for you not to fall in love with them. Ronan aka Bear and Em are just perfect together and will remind of what true love is really about. the secondary story in this book involves Ronan's best friends Kelsey and Chase and puts new meaning to friendship.
Ronan has lost his best friend Kyle and he blames Chase, one of his best friends for killing him, and is having a hard time dealing with the death of Kyle and has spent the last four months livinng under a rock and not showing his face to the world. When Ronan is forced to come out with his brother Finn for a night at the bar, he has no idea the events that will happen from that night on. I ab Em is out at the bar with her girlfriends, while her boyfriend has lied to her and gone away with his family and uninvited her to join them. When she bumps into Ronan at thebar, the crush she had on him in highschool comes roaring back to life. Ronan and Em together is prefection, they seems to fit together like the birds on a feather. But when Em's abusing ex-boyfriend shows up at her house and makes a plan for them to be together forever, Em's world is tipped upside down and Ronan is left feeling like he failed her. Will Ronan get over himself and realize that Em is his forver girl???
I absolutely loved LAST WISH by Erin Butler, this was the first book I had read from this author, LAST WISH is book two in the series, however can be read as a standalone, and I will be going back and reading the first book in the series. I would give LAST WISH 4/5 stars.
Reviewed on behalf of Once Upon an Alpha
The story in this book is very well written and well developed and the plot is fast paced and by the end of the book you will have laughed and cried for many different reasons. The characters in this book are very well written and make it hard for you not to fall in love with them. Ronan aka Bear and Em are just perfect together and will remind of what true love is really about. the secondary story in this book involves Ronan's best friends Kelsey and Chase and puts new meaning to friendship.
Ronan has lost his best friend Kyle and he blames Chase, one of his best friends for killing him, and is having a hard time dealing with the death of Kyle and has spent the last four months livinng under a rock and not showing his face to the world. When Ronan is forced to come out with his brother Finn for a night at the bar, he has no idea the events that will happen from that night on. I ab Em is out at the bar with her girlfriends, while her boyfriend has lied to her and gone away with his family and uninvited her to join them. When she bumps into Ronan at thebar, the crush she had on him in highschool comes roaring back to life. Ronan and Em together is prefection, they seems to fit together like the birds on a feather. But when Em's abusing ex-boyfriend shows up at her house and makes a plan for them to be together forever, Em's world is tipped upside down and Ronan is left feeling like he failed her. Will Ronan get over himself and realize that Em is his forver girl???
I absolutely loved LAST WISH by Erin Butler, this was the first book I had read from this author, LAST WISH is book two in the series, however can be read as a standalone, and I will be going back and reading the first book in the series. I would give LAST WISH 4/5 stars.
Reviewed on behalf of Once Upon an Alpha
December 27, 2015
Nothing feels right. Not since my best friend died and I fucked up the one promise he asked me to make. The past follows me everywhere, tangling me up like weeds, reminding me that my life is empty. So fucking empty.
Then she walks into the bar, all bright beauty and sweet lips made for kissing.
Em Stewart is a complication...one I need to avoid. She’s got heavy secrets of her own, ones she hides from her friends—and lies about to herself.
No matter how hard I try, I can't resist her, and our unexpected road trip sure as hell isn’t helping my cause. But I’ll be damned if I screw up my first chance at something real...
Review:
This book intrigued me with its description, not knowing it was a NA book, I picked it up for review. I am not really into NA, all the angst and drama. Was a young adult once lived it, not really into reading it. This book does have its fair share of drama, angst and social issues, but it is well-done and could easily be a romance for any age group with a few small changes. To me that makes it good because sometimes you forget what age they are. Back to the angst and social issues, it does seem to be over done. There is the backlash to drinking and driving, physical and emotional abuse by a significant other, the drama and excitement of new love; lots going on in this book and for the characters to deal with. Thought the love story part between Em and Ronan was good and liked how it played out.
If you enjoy NA books than this short read should appeal to you, I enjoyed it for a change of genre.
3.5Stars
*Received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for a fair and honest review.*
Then she walks into the bar, all bright beauty and sweet lips made for kissing.
Em Stewart is a complication...one I need to avoid. She’s got heavy secrets of her own, ones she hides from her friends—and lies about to herself.
No matter how hard I try, I can't resist her, and our unexpected road trip sure as hell isn’t helping my cause. But I’ll be damned if I screw up my first chance at something real...
Review:
This book intrigued me with its description, not knowing it was a NA book, I picked it up for review. I am not really into NA, all the angst and drama. Was a young adult once lived it, not really into reading it. This book does have its fair share of drama, angst and social issues, but it is well-done and could easily be a romance for any age group with a few small changes. To me that makes it good because sometimes you forget what age they are. Back to the angst and social issues, it does seem to be over done. There is the backlash to drinking and driving, physical and emotional abuse by a significant other, the drama and excitement of new love; lots going on in this book and for the characters to deal with. Thought the love story part between Em and Ronan was good and liked how it played out.
If you enjoy NA books than this short read should appeal to you, I enjoyed it for a change of genre.
3.5Stars
*Received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for a fair and honest review.*
December 28, 2015
Let me start off by saying that overall, I though Last Wish was a decent read, and it did pass the time for me. I really liked the characters, and Ronan was my favorite with his tortured self.
I wasn’t really a fan of how the information for Ronan’s and Em’s backstories was doled out. It made it harder for me to relate to them and how their relationship unfolded since I really didn’t have a complete view of their characters until later in the story. It also felt like several of the characters didn’t have quite the maturity level to match where they currently are supposed to be in life; their actions felt like they were still in high school.
Ronan and Em together, though…they worked really well, but the way their story was told felt like it didn’t flow well-it felt kind of jumpy (that’s the best way I can explain it, sorry if it’s not coming across right). Also, I did think the big scene with Nate toward the end kind of came out of the blue as we really didn’t have any kind of indication earlier that he would have had that kind of behavior in him. Yes, I could see a conflict scene at that point…just not as big of a twist as what we got.
One thing this story did do though, is make me really curious about Kelsey and Chase’s story, which was in the first book of the series-which I have not read yet. Last Wish can be read as a standalone, though if you haven’t read the first book yet, you’ll probably be curious about it like I am as Chase comes across as a really great character.
3 stars for Last Wish, recommended for 18+…and be advised it does have a scene toward the end that may be a trigger for some readers (permanent self-harm).
I wasn’t really a fan of how the information for Ronan’s and Em’s backstories was doled out. It made it harder for me to relate to them and how their relationship unfolded since I really didn’t have a complete view of their characters until later in the story. It also felt like several of the characters didn’t have quite the maturity level to match where they currently are supposed to be in life; their actions felt like they were still in high school.
Ronan and Em together, though…they worked really well, but the way their story was told felt like it didn’t flow well-it felt kind of jumpy (that’s the best way I can explain it, sorry if it’s not coming across right). Also, I did think the big scene with Nate toward the end kind of came out of the blue as we really didn’t have any kind of indication earlier that he would have had that kind of behavior in him. Yes, I could see a conflict scene at that point…just not as big of a twist as what we got.
One thing this story did do though, is make me really curious about Kelsey and Chase’s story, which was in the first book of the series-which I have not read yet. Last Wish can be read as a standalone, though if you haven’t read the first book yet, you’ll probably be curious about it like I am as Chase comes across as a really great character.
3 stars for Last Wish, recommended for 18+…and be advised it does have a scene toward the end that may be a trigger for some readers (permanent self-harm).
Read
January 4, 2016Last wish was a serious read with interesting characters and some hard topics. It deals with a group of YAs that have been friends forever and experience a tragic loss and how the fallout changes their lives, particularly Bear. He's angry with his friends, hurt by what he views as betrayal and determined to stay shut down, until Em pops back into his life.
Em seems light and everything that is good, but she's trying to hide something from all her friends. I love the approach that the author took towards such a hard to deal with subject such as domestic violence. I liked that the psychological effects were true to what happens in real life, it wasn't glossed over, but neither was it in your face.
Two people who hurt as much as Bear and Em probably shouldn't find their happily ever after together as they heal, but just maybe they need each other to heal. Broken as they seem, they both just want things to be back to normal, even if it's their new normal together.
There were a couple other touchy subjects in this story. It's not lite reading in the least, what it is is well written and well put together. It draws the reader into the pain Bear is feeling and the fear Em is dealing with. I enjoyed reading this book, although I would have liked a little more back story about what happened to get such a tight group of friends to fracture as they did. The reader gets the bare bones of the story, but I think more details were be beneficial to the story
Em seems light and everything that is good, but she's trying to hide something from all her friends. I love the approach that the author took towards such a hard to deal with subject such as domestic violence. I liked that the psychological effects were true to what happens in real life, it wasn't glossed over, but neither was it in your face.
Two people who hurt as much as Bear and Em probably shouldn't find their happily ever after together as they heal, but just maybe they need each other to heal. Broken as they seem, they both just want things to be back to normal, even if it's their new normal together.
There were a couple other touchy subjects in this story. It's not lite reading in the least, what it is is well written and well put together. It draws the reader into the pain Bear is feeling and the fear Em is dealing with. I enjoyed reading this book, although I would have liked a little more back story about what happened to get such a tight group of friends to fracture as they did. The reader gets the bare bones of the story, but I think more details were be beneficial to the story
January 1, 2016
Last wish
Ronan and Em...these two left me reeling! Butler does a fabulous job of hooking the reader into her storyline from the very beginning. We are the hidden audience to the atrocities that Em experiences in her previous relationship. She's left a battered woman, literally.
Ronan is the classic guy we love to love. Hes given so much of himself its left him an a rotating cycle of depression that (he feels) he's brought on himself and from which there is no escape. But what happens when the man who can't say no to being a protector offers a woman with an obvious past his full protection?
Butler is phenomenal at putting the reader right into the heart of this story. You will be beaten, broken, depressed and sad. But you Will also feel the exhilaration of excitement and the heart pounding head swooning rush of love! Once the tale captures you in its net, you can't help but ride along on this fast paced roller coaster. That may be my only complaint. As much as I devoured the quick pace of this story, I felt it ended just as abruptly as it started . But if it you appreciate it for what it's meant to be, you won't be disappointed.
Overall I liked it..alot . And i'll be interested to see what comes next from this author.
*Reviewed on Behalf of Once Upon An Alpha*
Ronan and Em...these two left me reeling! Butler does a fabulous job of hooking the reader into her storyline from the very beginning. We are the hidden audience to the atrocities that Em experiences in her previous relationship. She's left a battered woman, literally.
Ronan is the classic guy we love to love. Hes given so much of himself its left him an a rotating cycle of depression that (he feels) he's brought on himself and from which there is no escape. But what happens when the man who can't say no to being a protector offers a woman with an obvious past his full protection?
Butler is phenomenal at putting the reader right into the heart of this story. You will be beaten, broken, depressed and sad. But you Will also feel the exhilaration of excitement and the heart pounding head swooning rush of love! Once the tale captures you in its net, you can't help but ride along on this fast paced roller coaster. That may be my only complaint. As much as I devoured the quick pace of this story, I felt it ended just as abruptly as it started . But if it you appreciate it for what it's meant to be, you won't be disappointed.
Overall I liked it..alot . And i'll be interested to see what comes next from this author.
*Reviewed on Behalf of Once Upon An Alpha*
December 5, 2015
Ronan and Em are both interesting characters and I liked reading this book. There were a few confusions at first because I did not read book one but soon I caught up with the story. Ronan, Kelsey and Chase were all friends but now there are some unresolved issues between them. Suffice it to say that Ronan wants to avoid them and trying to mend his broken heart. Then he meets Em who happens to be Kelsey's friend. They have known each other for a long time but there was never anything between them. Although Ronan likes her and thinks she is full of life.
When Em needs help, Ronan happens to be her only option. They spend time together and realize that they do not want to be just friends anymore. They are both recovering from past hurts but they are so much alike in so many ways, therefore, pieces fall into places for them and they end up together.
It's very well written and captivating story. Although the plot is nothing exceptional but it did manage to surprise me. I like all the characters and the way it's written is quite engaging. It was a good, light-hearted read for me. I hope others enjoy it as much as I did.
When Em needs help, Ronan happens to be her only option. They spend time together and realize that they do not want to be just friends anymore. They are both recovering from past hurts but they are so much alike in so many ways, therefore, pieces fall into places for them and they end up together.
It's very well written and captivating story. Although the plot is nothing exceptional but it did manage to surprise me. I like all the characters and the way it's written is quite engaging. It was a good, light-hearted read for me. I hope others enjoy it as much as I did.
January 4, 2016
"Last Wish" by Erin Butler is book two in the "Remembering Kyle" series. I hadn't read the first book in this series, "How We Lived", and I think I would have had a better understanding of the book from the beginning if I had read it. This is Ronan and Em's story.
Ronan has been all messed up since his best friend Kyle died. He hasn't really been living and when sees Em all grown up he is really attracted to her. Em is friends with Kyle's sister Kelsey so he feels that she is something he can't have. Em has issues that she is dealing with and hasn't confined them to her friends. Situations put Ronan and Em together.
This story covers some deep issues such as the death of a friend that was caused by another friend's mistake and domestic abuse.
Overall, I enjoyed the story, but I felt that it was for a younger group, but with content for a mature audience. At times the characters seemed immature, but other times they acted very mature for their age, especially with such deep issues that they were dealing with. FYI, contains mature content.
I have received a copy of this book from NetGalley/Entangled Publishing, for an honest review.
https://booksnuggle.wordpress.com
Ronan has been all messed up since his best friend Kyle died. He hasn't really been living and when sees Em all grown up he is really attracted to her. Em is friends with Kyle's sister Kelsey so he feels that she is something he can't have. Em has issues that she is dealing with and hasn't confined them to her friends. Situations put Ronan and Em together.
This story covers some deep issues such as the death of a friend that was caused by another friend's mistake and domestic abuse.
Overall, I enjoyed the story, but I felt that it was for a younger group, but with content for a mature audience. At times the characters seemed immature, but other times they acted very mature for their age, especially with such deep issues that they were dealing with. FYI, contains mature content.
I have received a copy of this book from NetGalley/Entangled Publishing, for an honest review.
https://booksnuggle.wordpress.com
December 21, 2015
So we've got Ronan, hero of the story, who's trying to carry out his deceased best friend's (Kyle's) last wish. As far as survivor's guilt goes, Ronan (or Bear) has it bad. He has all but written off a former friend (Chase) for his role in Kyle's death. This makes it a bit difficult for Bear to carry out Kyle's final wish of taking care of his sister, Kelsey. Kelsey happens to be romantically involved with Chase. Yep, the whole situation sounds and feels very high school. This all being said, the real plot of this book actually revolves around Bear and Kelsey's best friend, Em. Em is in a shoddy relationship and Bear ends up being the one to rescue her from the side of the road, literally. On their road trip home, they learn more about each other, themselves and discover feelings for each other they never acknowledged before. Last Wish was definitely a sweet story. I read it as a standalone and found it alright. It didn't pull at my heartstrings, though, and so I'll have to give this book a 2.5* rating.
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