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Seeking Serenity #4
Catching Serenity
It began with a look.
Just one, thrown my way. A mad, dizzying rush of desire cracking across the patio, bouncing around my friends, ignoring everything but the heat bubbling between his eyes and mine.
That’s when Quinn O’Malley came into my life.
We were inevitable.
We were senseless.
He wrecked me.
He saved me.
I still haven’t recovered.
Sayo McIntyre didn’t want the complications that came with Quinn O’Malley.
But life doesn’t care what we want. It gives us what we need.
CATCHING SERENITY is the last full-length novel in the Serenity Series.
This is a multi-media novel with illustrations from RN Laing. Trigger warnings: real damn life.
Just one, thrown my way. A mad, dizzying rush of desire cracking across the patio, bouncing around my friends, ignoring everything but the heat bubbling between his eyes and mine.
That’s when Quinn O’Malley came into my life.
We were inevitable.
We were senseless.
He wrecked me.
He saved me.
I still haven’t recovered.
Sayo McIntyre didn’t want the complications that came with Quinn O’Malley.
But life doesn’t care what we want. It gives us what we need.
CATCHING SERENITY is the last full-length novel in the Serenity Series.
This is a multi-media novel with illustrations from RN Laing. Trigger warnings: real damn life.
318 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 26, 2016
8 people are currently reading
345 people want to read
About the author
Eden Butler
50 books1,635 followers
Eden Butler is a writer of contemporary, fantasy, and romantic suspense novels and the nine-times great-granddaughter of an honest-to-God English pirate. This could explain her affinity for rule breaking and rum.
When she's not writing or wondering about her possibly Jack Sparrowesque ancestor, Eden patiently waits for her Hogwarts letter, reads, and spends too much time in her garden perfecting her green thumb while waiting for the next New Orleans Saints Super Bowl win.
She is currently living under teenage rule alongside her husband in southeast Louisiana.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
April 2, 2016
☆ I received an ARC via the author in exchange for an honest review. Thank you! ☆
I was anxiously waiting and waiting for Quinn and Sayo’s story to come out and literally jumped for joy once I had received it on my kindle. We meet them earlier in the series, but, after reading this I had no idea how incredibly painful their journey would be and how beautifully the sketches kind of accentuated the timeless vulnerability and depth of their relationship.
Sayo... well, we all are aware of the painful anguish of what her young cousin, Rhea, is going through and how much it pains and antagonizes Sayo internally. She tries to put on a strong front but deep down she is drowning on the inside.
The only true light of this, and or distraction if you look at it, is Quinn who is Declan’s younger brother, and even he is both enlightening as he is destructive to her well-being. That is, especially for an individual on the brink like Sayo, who has been unlucky in love and is not exactly at a good place to embark on a relationship, if you can even call what she and Quinn have initially start off as, in the first place at all.
Quinn, in respect though, is just as lost as Sayo and unknowingly without realizing it, he stubbornly needs her as well and bonds with her over the ailing Rhea.
I really admired the many universal themes that author Eden Butler interweaves into their characters as she engraves something raw and primal and yet captivating. Catching Serenity’s overture of love, loss, friendship, tragedy, heartbreak, healing, and moving forward was the epitome of life and its beautiful blessings and demonic lowest of lows.
It’s bittersweet to everything all end, but nevertheless, I was honored to be a part of it!! Such pure heart and emotion!! Definitely, one of my favorites from this series!!
I was anxiously waiting and waiting for Quinn and Sayo’s story to come out and literally jumped for joy once I had received it on my kindle. We meet them earlier in the series, but, after reading this I had no idea how incredibly painful their journey would be and how beautifully the sketches kind of accentuated the timeless vulnerability and depth of their relationship.
Sayo... well, we all are aware of the painful anguish of what her young cousin, Rhea, is going through and how much it pains and antagonizes Sayo internally. She tries to put on a strong front but deep down she is drowning on the inside.
The only true light of this, and or distraction if you look at it, is Quinn who is Declan’s younger brother, and even he is both enlightening as he is destructive to her well-being. That is, especially for an individual on the brink like Sayo, who has been unlucky in love and is not exactly at a good place to embark on a relationship, if you can even call what she and Quinn have initially start off as, in the first place at all.
Quinn, in respect though, is just as lost as Sayo and unknowingly without realizing it, he stubbornly needs her as well and bonds with her over the ailing Rhea.
I really admired the many universal themes that author Eden Butler interweaves into their characters as she engraves something raw and primal and yet captivating. Catching Serenity’s overture of love, loss, friendship, tragedy, heartbreak, healing, and moving forward was the epitome of life and its beautiful blessings and demonic lowest of lows.
It’s bittersweet to everything all end, but nevertheless, I was honored to be a part of it!! Such pure heart and emotion!! Definitely, one of my favorites from this series!!
Want to read
April 27, 2015It's Sayo & Quinn! Yay!
March 28, 2016
Eden Butler is a Master at Writing Emotions
Catching Serenity is a beautifully poignant book, which shows that healing can come through heartbreak. This is my introduction to Eden Butler, and in my opinion, her unique and talented gift as a writer is writing emotions. She is a master at using emotions to tell a story. This book is raw, heartbreaking at times, and yet beautiful and uplifting too. This book starts off deeply affecting and Ms. Butler warns the reader that this journey for our heroine, Sayo, will be a tough one.
This is the story of Quinn and Sayo, two stubborn individuals who seem to clash with a passion, and on the surface, they don't seem to have anything in common. It's through the connection of one, special girl, Sayo's cousin, Rhea, that they connect and begin to understand one another like no one else can. Both main character's are hiding parts of their true self over fear of being hurt and having someone else see their vulnerabilities. The passionate exchanges between these two are very engaging. You can feel how Sayo fights her attraction to Quinn at first, but it's through trying to numb her pain through Quinn that ultimately brings her the peace she so deserves.
Catching Serenity is a unique book because the author uses illustrations to help tell the story. Visually, it adds another emotional layer to the book. For instance, the cover of this novel, which contains beautiful artwork, relates directly to the plot. I experienced deep emotion through them, which I'm sure is what the author intended. They were very affective and I can't imagine the book without them.
Another element I enjoyed in this book is how Sayo's friends and family play a part in her life. I felt like I was as connected to the secondary characters as much as I was to the main ones. The sense of tight community and family is very present throughout the book. Sayo is from a small community in Tennessee and she is very well loved and cared for by her friends and family. They rally behind each other and their faith is shown in subtle ways too. I noticed this immediately because faith is rarely displayed in a contemporary romance, yet it is so fitting here.
Even though this book may be considered a "tear jerker," it's very uplifting and inspiring. Ms. Butler creates such a wonderful ending to this series and shows how promise and healing can come from heartbreak.
I haven't read any of the other books in the Serenity series, which are all interconnected standalones, but I don't feel I missed out on any of Quinn and Sayo's story. What a beautiful story of love, devotion, family, heartbreak and loyalty. This is my first Eden Butler read, but it definitely won't be my last.
An advanced reader's copy was given to me in exchange for an honest review.
Catching Serenity is a beautifully poignant book, which shows that healing can come through heartbreak. This is my introduction to Eden Butler, and in my opinion, her unique and talented gift as a writer is writing emotions. She is a master at using emotions to tell a story. This book is raw, heartbreaking at times, and yet beautiful and uplifting too. This book starts off deeply affecting and Ms. Butler warns the reader that this journey for our heroine, Sayo, will be a tough one.
This is the story of Quinn and Sayo, two stubborn individuals who seem to clash with a passion, and on the surface, they don't seem to have anything in common. It's through the connection of one, special girl, Sayo's cousin, Rhea, that they connect and begin to understand one another like no one else can. Both main character's are hiding parts of their true self over fear of being hurt and having someone else see their vulnerabilities. The passionate exchanges between these two are very engaging. You can feel how Sayo fights her attraction to Quinn at first, but it's through trying to numb her pain through Quinn that ultimately brings her the peace she so deserves.
Catching Serenity is a unique book because the author uses illustrations to help tell the story. Visually, it adds another emotional layer to the book. For instance, the cover of this novel, which contains beautiful artwork, relates directly to the plot. I experienced deep emotion through them, which I'm sure is what the author intended. They were very affective and I can't imagine the book without them.
Another element I enjoyed in this book is how Sayo's friends and family play a part in her life. I felt like I was as connected to the secondary characters as much as I was to the main ones. The sense of tight community and family is very present throughout the book. Sayo is from a small community in Tennessee and she is very well loved and cared for by her friends and family. They rally behind each other and their faith is shown in subtle ways too. I noticed this immediately because faith is rarely displayed in a contemporary romance, yet it is so fitting here.
Even though this book may be considered a "tear jerker," it's very uplifting and inspiring. Ms. Butler creates such a wonderful ending to this series and shows how promise and healing can come from heartbreak.
I haven't read any of the other books in the Serenity series, which are all interconnected standalones, but I don't feel I missed out on any of Quinn and Sayo's story. What a beautiful story of love, devotion, family, heartbreak and loyalty. This is my first Eden Butler read, but it definitely won't be my last.
An advanced reader's copy was given to me in exchange for an honest review.
March 29, 2016
This story is about two people finding the way to each other while dealing with heartbreak and sorrow. None wanting to admit their feelings for each other. Both hiding behind a wall put up by themselves to protect them from feeling and being hurt. But their journey is not without its obstacles. Obstacles which could prove too hard to overcome. Will there be a happy ending?
I enjoyed this book. A wonderful story about love and strength. It will make you both cry and smile. A definite recommend.
I didn't read the previous books in this series and did not feel lost. This can easily be read as a stand alone.
Copy provided by author for an honest review.
I enjoyed this book. A wonderful story about love and strength. It will make you both cry and smile. A definite recommend.
I didn't read the previous books in this series and did not feel lost. This can easily be read as a stand alone.
Copy provided by author for an honest review.
April 1, 2016
4.5 Stars
It's always a bittersweet moment when a favorite series comes to an end. I've loved Cavanaugh and its Irish men and the feisty women they fall for. So many memorable scenes and great heart-to-heart dialogue, it's hard to let this series go.
This last installment is Sayo's book, and it really belongs to her as it is entirely written in her POV. If you've been following this series, you know that the little librarian has been dealing with some difficult, real-lif-in-your-face kinda stuff. It's the tough part of this book and it sets the tone for the story, so you might want to be prepared. This is a story of the value of love, even during the darkest times.
Quinn arrives in Cavanaugh surly and at odds with Declan, Quinn's half-brother. (Talk about complicated relationships -- Quinn and Declan's family might just take the prize for that! :) ) We find out more about Quinn's childhood and how his experiences have made him the man he is today. He's not just what he looked like on the surface, and I liked that about him. He isn't the greatest communicator, but Sayo seems to get him.
Even though there's some definite heat between Sayo and Quinn right from the start, it does take some time for them to get to the sexy times, and I liked that about the book. Eden Butler does great dialogue and she does a great job of ratcheting up the sexual tension between these two.
Quinn's sketches are an integral part to this story, at least I thought so. The inclusion of these drawings in the book made this a special reading experience for me and I loved that.
On the surface, Sayo and Quinn might seem to be an unlikely pair, but their relationship really worked for me. There was more to their attraction than just physical attraction, but that does take a while to get to. I would have liked to see a little more of their relationship after they both drop their defensive masks and admit their true feelings.
There's the wrapping up of some other story lines too, Autumn and Declan, Molie and Vaughn, and my favorite couple in the series, Donovan and Layla. There's happy moments mixed in with the serious and that does a great job with keeping this story from being too dark. Like all the books in this series, I really didn't put it down until the final pages.
Perfect ending to the series. Recommended.
ARC provided for review.
It's always a bittersweet moment when a favorite series comes to an end. I've loved Cavanaugh and its Irish men and the feisty women they fall for. So many memorable scenes and great heart-to-heart dialogue, it's hard to let this series go.
This last installment is Sayo's book, and it really belongs to her as it is entirely written in her POV. If you've been following this series, you know that the little librarian has been dealing with some difficult, real-lif-in-your-face kinda stuff. It's the tough part of this book and it sets the tone for the story, so you might want to be prepared. This is a story of the value of love, even during the darkest times.
Quinn arrives in Cavanaugh surly and at odds with Declan, Quinn's half-brother. (Talk about complicated relationships -- Quinn and Declan's family might just take the prize for that! :) ) We find out more about Quinn's childhood and how his experiences have made him the man he is today. He's not just what he looked like on the surface, and I liked that about him. He isn't the greatest communicator, but Sayo seems to get him.
Even though there's some definite heat between Sayo and Quinn right from the start, it does take some time for them to get to the sexy times, and I liked that about the book. Eden Butler does great dialogue and she does a great job of ratcheting up the sexual tension between these two.
Quinn's sketches are an integral part to this story, at least I thought so. The inclusion of these drawings in the book made this a special reading experience for me and I loved that.
On the surface, Sayo and Quinn might seem to be an unlikely pair, but their relationship really worked for me. There was more to their attraction than just physical attraction, but that does take a while to get to. I would have liked to see a little more of their relationship after they both drop their defensive masks and admit their true feelings.
There's the wrapping up of some other story lines too, Autumn and Declan, Molie and Vaughn, and my favorite couple in the series, Donovan and Layla. There's happy moments mixed in with the serious and that does a great job with keeping this story from being too dark. Like all the books in this series, I really didn't put it down until the final pages.
Perfect ending to the series. Recommended.
ARC provided for review.
March 31, 2016
Cavanaugh has become one of the most pleasing towns in fiction that I've read in years. It's Irish (who wouldn't love that!), loaded with families, friends and a college that pulls you in and you begin to learn all of it's secrets. With the last few Serenity books, you've met Declan (YES!!), Mollie, Vaughn, and Sayo's bestie, Autumn, and a slew of others...people you'll feel like you know intimately once you're done with each stunning book.
Eden has penned the last in the Serenity series (set in that fab little town). I'm extremely sad to see the last Serenity book, but also overjoyed to finally get my fingers on Sayo and Quinn's story! And it did not disappoint. Eden has the ability to make you feel as if you are there, in real time, facing the same issues her characters face, and the same joy, fear and pain also. There is a snap instant of sorrow and pain so sharp, in CS, that your breath is taken for a minute. That arrow focus on emotions and 'real' world issues is an ongoing thread in all Eden books. You will never read 'fluff' from Eden.
Sayo had broken up with Sam, with whom she had spent a good amount of time, and now with her little cousin's sickness, there hasn't been any time to have to herself. All of her time is donated to Rhea. Then Quinn waltzes into Cavanaugh, and Sayo is intrigued, even when she tries not to be.
Quinn is pretty much a typical Irish man, hard-headed, mulish, over confident, and flat out beautiful to Sayo. She can't help but be pulled in his direction, and soon even Quinn has wormed his way into little Rhea's inner circle.
The romance is a flash fire, and the consummation of it is real, intense and begins as a way to 'get away' for Sayo. He is her release, her exultation that life is real, it is short, intense and sometimes painful. Soon, she can't determine if she is going to him, and him to her, out of that need of release or if real emotions have taken hold deep.
The addition of sketches ties the words and imagery together, a gorgeous bow of intelligent packaging. Told from the viewpoint of Sayo, this installment of the Serenity series is a beautiful, tragic journey of a woman lost in her reality, and the man who does his best to remind her to see the beauty in everything around her.
Eden has penned the last in the Serenity series (set in that fab little town). I'm extremely sad to see the last Serenity book, but also overjoyed to finally get my fingers on Sayo and Quinn's story! And it did not disappoint. Eden has the ability to make you feel as if you are there, in real time, facing the same issues her characters face, and the same joy, fear and pain also. There is a snap instant of sorrow and pain so sharp, in CS, that your breath is taken for a minute. That arrow focus on emotions and 'real' world issues is an ongoing thread in all Eden books. You will never read 'fluff' from Eden.
Sayo had broken up with Sam, with whom she had spent a good amount of time, and now with her little cousin's sickness, there hasn't been any time to have to herself. All of her time is donated to Rhea. Then Quinn waltzes into Cavanaugh, and Sayo is intrigued, even when she tries not to be.
Quinn is pretty much a typical Irish man, hard-headed, mulish, over confident, and flat out beautiful to Sayo. She can't help but be pulled in his direction, and soon even Quinn has wormed his way into little Rhea's inner circle.
The romance is a flash fire, and the consummation of it is real, intense and begins as a way to 'get away' for Sayo. He is her release, her exultation that life is real, it is short, intense and sometimes painful. Soon, she can't determine if she is going to him, and him to her, out of that need of release or if real emotions have taken hold deep.
The addition of sketches ties the words and imagery together, a gorgeous bow of intelligent packaging. Told from the viewpoint of Sayo, this installment of the Serenity series is a beautiful, tragic journey of a woman lost in her reality, and the man who does his best to remind her to see the beauty in everything around her.
April 14, 2016
This fourth and final story of The Serenity series is beautifully heartbreaking. Do not read this story without tissues handy. While this book can be read as a stand-alone, I truly believe that reading the series from the beginning will only enhance your reading experience. Each book is fantastic in its own right and you really get a feel for each character in this book. You get to know their dynamic and history and it just bring you into the story that much more.
Chasing Serenity is Sayo's story. She currently has her life on hold as her little cousin, Rhea, is hospitalized and dying from cancer. She is very close to her cousin and feels the impending end so, so deeply. I felt her love for Rhea. The emotions jumping off the page were so real, so tangible that they became my own. In the previous stories, Sayo is outgoing, strong, and a rock for her friends. The Sayo in this story is broken, withdrawn, and trying to claw her way to the surface. The author takes us through the stages of grieving and reaching for that needed numbness.
She finds that blessed numbness in Quinn, Declan's troubled, jerky brother. However, there is so much more to Quinn than what meets the eye. He gets introduced to Rhea and falls in love with the little girl. He spends hours with her, which starts off as a point of contention between him and Sayo. When Rhea takes a turn for the worse, she becomes the one thing that pushes them together. They find that much needed comfort in each other's touch.
Oh – my heart! What an excellent ending to one of my all time favorite series. When a series that I have fallen in love with is over a part of me hurts. I look back at all the books with a bittersweet fondness, not quite ready to let go. When I read the first book, Chasing Serenity, I had a bone deep knowing that Eden Butler was a special author. Her ability to pull you into her stories - the world that she creates, the characters that she molds, and her ability to immerse you into the emotions of those characters – is nothing short of spectacular.
Chasing Serenity is Sayo's story. She currently has her life on hold as her little cousin, Rhea, is hospitalized and dying from cancer. She is very close to her cousin and feels the impending end so, so deeply. I felt her love for Rhea. The emotions jumping off the page were so real, so tangible that they became my own. In the previous stories, Sayo is outgoing, strong, and a rock for her friends. The Sayo in this story is broken, withdrawn, and trying to claw her way to the surface. The author takes us through the stages of grieving and reaching for that needed numbness.
She finds that blessed numbness in Quinn, Declan's troubled, jerky brother. However, there is so much more to Quinn than what meets the eye. He gets introduced to Rhea and falls in love with the little girl. He spends hours with her, which starts off as a point of contention between him and Sayo. When Rhea takes a turn for the worse, she becomes the one thing that pushes them together. They find that much needed comfort in each other's touch.
Oh – my heart! What an excellent ending to one of my all time favorite series. When a series that I have fallen in love with is over a part of me hurts. I look back at all the books with a bittersweet fondness, not quite ready to let go. When I read the first book, Chasing Serenity, I had a bone deep knowing that Eden Butler was a special author. Her ability to pull you into her stories - the world that she creates, the characters that she molds, and her ability to immerse you into the emotions of those characters – is nothing short of spectacular.
April 9, 2016
I've been lucky enough to be along for the tours for every book in this series, and I have to say that Sayo and Quinn were definitely my most anticipated. Perhaps it was that these two seemed to be the most mysterious of the group, the ones who seemingly separated theirselves from the rest, even while being ones of the gang. Maybe it's that they're the two who were the most broken. I'm not really sure. But whatever it was, it made me yearn for their story so much more.
That said, Eden definitely did not disappoint when she finally gave it to us. This book is so much different than the others of the series- that really has to be said. The tone is 100% different. There are much darker things going on and the subject matter is a heck of a lot more bleak than the what the other couples dealt with. And, Eden handled it beautifully. She was able to fully capture and convey both the pain and beauty that these two experienced when going through Rhea's illness and ultimate death. To have to experience such a tragic thing during their early adult years, it broke my heart for them. Rhea wasn't just a cousin to Sayo, or a kid to Quinn. She was more like a sister, a hero, even a savior. She brought them together, and ultimately bound them with a love so strong that neither had any hope of escape.
As much as I loved this book, it also killed me. It's the end of the story for these guys. The last of the series. We've watched these couples meet, grow, fall in love and finally build their lives together. So, it's incredibly hard for me to say goodbye to them. While I'm proud to see them all go off into the sunset in each of their own directions, making lives of their own- I still teared up to see it happen. This series is what made me fall in love with Eden's writing, and has meant so very much to me. It's been an honor and a privilege to read and review each one. And I'm happy to give Catching Serenity a blinding 5 stars!!!
That said, Eden definitely did not disappoint when she finally gave it to us. This book is so much different than the others of the series- that really has to be said. The tone is 100% different. There are much darker things going on and the subject matter is a heck of a lot more bleak than the what the other couples dealt with. And, Eden handled it beautifully. She was able to fully capture and convey both the pain and beauty that these two experienced when going through Rhea's illness and ultimate death. To have to experience such a tragic thing during their early adult years, it broke my heart for them. Rhea wasn't just a cousin to Sayo, or a kid to Quinn. She was more like a sister, a hero, even a savior. She brought them together, and ultimately bound them with a love so strong that neither had any hope of escape.
As much as I loved this book, it also killed me. It's the end of the story for these guys. The last of the series. We've watched these couples meet, grow, fall in love and finally build their lives together. So, it's incredibly hard for me to say goodbye to them. While I'm proud to see them all go off into the sunset in each of their own directions, making lives of their own- I still teared up to see it happen. This series is what made me fall in love with Eden's writing, and has meant so very much to me. It's been an honor and a privilege to read and review each one. And I'm happy to give Catching Serenity a blinding 5 stars!!!
April 19, 2016
Catching Serenity could probably be read and enjoyed as a stand-alone, but I highly recommend reading earlier books in the series first. I think already knowing and caring about Sayo and also knowing the history of the other characters in the series ups the emotional impact of this story.
Sayo has been putting her life on hold to help support her young terminally ill cousin, who she is very close to. Her cousin is not doing well, and Sayo is determined to spend as much time with her as possible to increase the quality of life she has left. Quinn O'Malley is not in town for reasons of his own choosing. He is bitter about his family situation, and has been living a pretty self-destructive life. Sayo doesn't want anything to do with Quinn, but she finds that giving in to her physical attraction provides her with small amounts of time where she can forget her problems and just feel. Quinn finds himself caring a lot about a little girl he just met, and caring more than he should about her older cousin.
Sayo has always been a character I was interested in, so I was excited to finally get her story. She has gone through a lot and the care she shows her cousin is admirable and very touching. Even more touching is watching bad-boy Quinn bring a kind of joy to this terminally-ill girl in a way that is authentic and genuine. The sexual chemistry between Sayo and Quinn is very hot, and even though they can be prickly with one another most times, it is clear that they could be more if they would just let themselves really experience their feelings. It was nice to get to spend time with some other characters from earlier in the series and see what is going on in their lives now.
I do wish that we got to go deeper into Quinn's history and his own psyche a little more. That said, I found this an emotional read that fit right in with my enjoyment of this whole series. 3.5 stars
*An ARC was provided in exchange for an honest review
Sayo has been putting her life on hold to help support her young terminally ill cousin, who she is very close to. Her cousin is not doing well, and Sayo is determined to spend as much time with her as possible to increase the quality of life she has left. Quinn O'Malley is not in town for reasons of his own choosing. He is bitter about his family situation, and has been living a pretty self-destructive life. Sayo doesn't want anything to do with Quinn, but she finds that giving in to her physical attraction provides her with small amounts of time where she can forget her problems and just feel. Quinn finds himself caring a lot about a little girl he just met, and caring more than he should about her older cousin.
Sayo has always been a character I was interested in, so I was excited to finally get her story. She has gone through a lot and the care she shows her cousin is admirable and very touching. Even more touching is watching bad-boy Quinn bring a kind of joy to this terminally-ill girl in a way that is authentic and genuine. The sexual chemistry between Sayo and Quinn is very hot, and even though they can be prickly with one another most times, it is clear that they could be more if they would just let themselves really experience their feelings. It was nice to get to spend time with some other characters from earlier in the series and see what is going on in their lives now.
I do wish that we got to go deeper into Quinn's history and his own psyche a little more. That said, I found this an emotional read that fit right in with my enjoyment of this whole series. 3.5 stars
*An ARC was provided in exchange for an honest review
March 25, 2016
This is quite the emotional read. From the very first pages I braced myself for the inevitable heartache that I was sure I would have to face. And it's there all right. An all-consuming, heartbreaking turn of events that we all saw coming. Sayo and everyone around her saw it coming. Quinn, the man she both hated and craved saw it coming. And yet so surprisingly or maybe not, it became the spark that actually set two souls free. And suddenly heartache turned to hope.
I hadn't read the other books in the Seeking Serenity series. I didn't know the other characters and their stories. But they are all here, present and accounted for and my goodness they are quite the crew. For Sayo, with everything she is going through with her dear cousin Rhea, they are there as her distraction, her strength and most certainly her comic relief even when she can't bear to even smile. But it's when the brooding Quinn O'Malley comes to the small town of Cavanaugh, half-brother to Declan, that he somehow through all the pain and numbness, become her savior.
This is a story that while certainly is not a particularly happy one, there is somehow glimpses of a contentment both Sayo and Quinn need in their lives. Both characters are insanely stubborn and maybe that's why they ultimately belong together. Jagged pieces to a complicated puzzle that somehow fit perfectly.
You'll need some tissues for this one but through the tears, even a smile or two manage to find their way to the surface. I attribute that to the author's writing style, which I really enjoy and her ability to juxtapose deep sorrow with the lightness of a child's laugh. In addition the use of RN Laing's artwork in key scenes was just perfect. Everything I pictured in my mind came to life brilliantly. A very welcome extra.
Highly recommended and a solid 5 stars.
I hadn't read the other books in the Seeking Serenity series. I didn't know the other characters and their stories. But they are all here, present and accounted for and my goodness they are quite the crew. For Sayo, with everything she is going through with her dear cousin Rhea, they are there as her distraction, her strength and most certainly her comic relief even when she can't bear to even smile. But it's when the brooding Quinn O'Malley comes to the small town of Cavanaugh, half-brother to Declan, that he somehow through all the pain and numbness, become her savior.
This is a story that while certainly is not a particularly happy one, there is somehow glimpses of a contentment both Sayo and Quinn need in their lives. Both characters are insanely stubborn and maybe that's why they ultimately belong together. Jagged pieces to a complicated puzzle that somehow fit perfectly.
You'll need some tissues for this one but through the tears, even a smile or two manage to find their way to the surface. I attribute that to the author's writing style, which I really enjoy and her ability to juxtapose deep sorrow with the lightness of a child's laugh. In addition the use of RN Laing's artwork in key scenes was just perfect. Everything I pictured in my mind came to life brilliantly. A very welcome extra.
Highly recommended and a solid 5 stars.
March 29, 2016
Catching Serenity is the fourth book in the Seeking Serenity series by Eden Butler. I recommend reading the first three books Chasing Serenity, Finding Serenity, and Claiming Serenity first. Catching Serenity is told through the main character Sayo's POV.
Catching Serenity is going to seize your heart. It's beautiful, gut wrenching, romantic, and life changing. Catching Serenity will open your eyes and make you think about the things that really matter in life. Make you think that taking chances are worth everything, no matter the outcome. I went into Catching Serenity completely blind and so I'm not going to say anything else. Other than you need to read this book as soon as possible. I will though, leave you with one of my favorite lines:
You’re like something I know I shouldn’t want. A habit I can’t bleeding stay clear of.
Catching Serenity is going to seize your heart. It's beautiful, gut wrenching, romantic, and life changing. Catching Serenity will open your eyes and make you think about the things that really matter in life. Make you think that taking chances are worth everything, no matter the outcome. I went into Catching Serenity completely blind and so I'm not going to say anything else. Other than you need to read this book as soon as possible. I will though, leave you with one of my favorite lines:
You’re like something I know I shouldn’t want. A habit I can’t bleeding stay clear of.
March 29, 2016
I read this book not realizing it was part of a series. I love the fact that even though this is not the first book in the series I was able to read it and not feel lost. While I did feel a lot of things reading this book, it flowed so well my lack of knowledge from not reading the other books in this series didn’t matter. And let me tell you, you will absolutely have feelings reading this book. You must have a box of tissues on hand, don’t be surprised if you have an ugly cry while reading this book. It will all be worth it at the end. Eden takes you on an amazing journey. From page one until the last page you will be trapped and held captive by this book. I hope if you read it, you enjoy it as much as I did.
March 29, 2016
I read this book not realizing it was part of a series. I love the fact that even though this is not the first book in the series I was able to read it and not feel lost. While I did feel a lot of things reading this book, it flowed so well my lack of knowledge from not reading the other books in this series didn’t matter. And let me tell you, you will absolutely have feelings reading this book. You must have a box of tissues on hand, don’t be surprised if you have an ugly cry while reading this book. It will all be worth it at the end. Eden takes you on an amazing journey. From page one until the last page you will be trapped and held captive by this book. I hope if you read it, you enjoy it as much as I did.
March 27, 2016
I love the cover to this book and think it's absolutely beautiful and I have to say it's fitting for the story inside. Catching Serenity was a real heart breaker of a story; it was emotional and full of angst but it was also uplifting and joyous and ultimately it will leave you all warm and glowing inside.
I've really enjoyed this series and would happily recommend it. On a side note, I always recommend reading a series in order, however, it's not strictly required for this book as it can be read as a stand alone.
I was gifted a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I've really enjoyed this series and would happily recommend it. On a side note, I always recommend reading a series in order, however, it's not strictly required for this book as it can be read as a stand alone.
I was gifted a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
March 28, 2016
Amazing story!!
I have loved the entire Serenity series, and Eden does not disappoint with the final installment.
Sayo's going through a tough time, and the only solace she can find is with Quinn. But, as will all whims, it's never as easy as it seems. This book grabbed me, and held my heart in it's clutches. At times I wanted to cry, or scream, or...just reach in and shake the characters around a bit so they would see what was right in front of them.
Wonderfully written - it will break your heart, and put it back together.
Perfect!!
I have loved the entire Serenity series, and Eden does not disappoint with the final installment.
Sayo's going through a tough time, and the only solace she can find is with Quinn. But, as will all whims, it's never as easy as it seems. This book grabbed me, and held my heart in it's clutches. At times I wanted to cry, or scream, or...just reach in and shake the characters around a bit so they would see what was right in front of them.
Wonderfully written - it will break your heart, and put it back together.
Perfect!!
March 28, 2016
Another amazing read from the talented Eden Butler. This has been my favorite in the serenity series. While reading this book it made me feel so many emotions for the main characters Quinn and Soya, hurt anger heartache and most importantly hope. I really enjoyed that we get to catch up with the rest of the characters in the serenity series. I'm not going to spoil this book and giveaway the story line all I say is have your tissues on hand because you will be needing them and also Eden has put a little something extra special into this book that you don't want to miss.
August 29, 2016
Book number four in this series is a much darker book than the others. Sayo is dealing with a lot. Her niece is dying and she feels hopeless and alone. Her friends are paired up and starting new lives with their loves and she has no one. She doesn't want to burden her friends with her sadness. She spends her days at Rhea's bedside keeping vigilance over her nieces finally days. Then there is Quinn. Rich spoiled snotty Irishman. The brother of Declan. Quinn himself is as dark as Sayo's days. But soon he's her only light. This one will get you in the feels.
March 26, 2016
Eden Butler can paint a picture with her words. But the icing on the cake were the illustrations by R.N. Laing included in the book. Miss Butler always kills me and puts me back together. I felt the angst, the lust, and the pain. I felt every fecking thing. I have a huge crush on Quinn and I am SO HAPPY about the HEA. I don't think my heart could have taken it if it happened any other way. Great conclusion to the Serenity series. This is the kind of book that will make you feel all the feels.
March 29, 2016
I LOVE the Serenity series! With that being said, this book was so different than the others. Emotionally crippling. If you can get through tis book without bawling your eyes out then you're a machine, Quinn is the bad boy we love to hate. Get to know him, he may just change your mind. Sayo will break your heart. Emotionally drained she finds an outlet for her pain. The story is beautifully written with a healing quality to it. Bonus is we get to catch up with the whole gang, JAYSUS!
March 30, 2016
This book although part of a series can definitely be read as a stand alone. I've waited a couple of days to right this after finishing this, there are so many emotions that resulted from reading it that I had to step back and evaluate how I really felt. This is a very good book and Eden Butler wrote such a sweet story but yet it has a lot of depth, heartache, and happiness. I love her books and this one did not disappoint!
March 28, 2016
I loved this book! It was a heartbreakingly sweet love story. I loved Sayo and Quinn's story. It was not an instant love story and it was definitely a bumpy road all the way to the end of the story but it was worth every second. The other love story was Quinn and Rhea and boy did that one tug at my heart. This is a must read!
March 31, 2016
Eden Butler once again proves that what she writes turns to gold. This was such a beautiful story of love, heartbreak, and battling demons. You heart may be ripped out but it will definitely be put back together. Definitely not your everyday love story. This one has so much more meaning than most. I highly recommend this 5 star read.
March 29, 2016
Oh my gosh.. THE FEELS. This was such a wonderful book. I'm sad to see the series end but this wont be the last time I visit Cavanagh. This book will take you through all the emotions. It can be read as a standalone but I will highly recommend reading the previous three books first.
March 27, 2016
This was an intense, gut wrenching story that will definitely have your emotions at the forefront. There is love, sadness, good times, intense connections, and once again, those Irish men you can't get enough of. Just make sure you have some tissues handy throughout. And be prepared for the ride
March 28, 2016
heart breakingly beautiful!! this story wrecked me and yet left me weirdly hopeful at the same time! such a great story with amazing developing characters. it was hard to get into at the beginning but amazing at the end! we all hope for love to save us!
March 28, 2016
This was quite a tuffy for me..
A heavy read without a doubt! So have some tissues to hand..
I had a bit of a problem with on of the characters, but don't let that put you off reading it!!
I would suggest reading the others in the series first so you can meet everyone properly!
A heavy read without a doubt! So have some tissues to hand..
I had a bit of a problem with on of the characters, but don't let that put you off reading it!!
I would suggest reading the others in the series first so you can meet everyone properly!
March 27, 2016
Not what I was expecting! Hard to get into at first but once I was in I was hooked! This was my first read by Eden Butler and definitely not my last! The illustrations were amazing ❤️
March 31, 2016
Sayo & Quinn, what can I say? these two broke my heart into a million shards, Rhea only added to that but I felt the love. so much love & beauty in this story.
April 28, 2016
LOVED this series!
May 10, 2020
It's been awhile since I had read the previous books in this series but I do remember enjoying them very much.
Sadly I can't say the same thing for this book. I was bored throughout the whole thing and couldn't wait to finally end this book.
For me there wasn't anything appealing in this book. The romance or the illness of the Rhea should have tugged at my heart strings but it just didn't happen.
Sadly I can't say the same thing for this book. I was bored throughout the whole thing and couldn't wait to finally end this book.
For me there wasn't anything appealing in this book. The romance or the illness of the Rhea should have tugged at my heart strings but it just didn't happen.
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