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Pieces of Summer
Some people make death beautiful... but we made life ugly...
Our story isn't for everyone.
Most people will probably hate it. Most people will probably hate us. I stopped giving a damn about what others thought a long time ago.
Like I said, our story isn't for everyone. It isn't pretty. It's not sweet. It's not packaged neatly with a bow on top. No. Our story is painful, maybe even a little dark, but it's real. Somewhere under all the pain lies something beautiful. It's buried deep, so good luck digging it up.
Our story might be ugly, but sometimes you don't appreciate beauty until you've seen the worst.
It's real.
It's pure.
It's raw.
Most importantly, it's ours.
*Adult content and language
*Stand-alone
*Dual POV
*Not intended for readers under 18
Our story isn't for everyone.
Most people will probably hate it. Most people will probably hate us. I stopped giving a damn about what others thought a long time ago.
Like I said, our story isn't for everyone. It isn't pretty. It's not sweet. It's not packaged neatly with a bow on top. No. Our story is painful, maybe even a little dark, but it's real. Somewhere under all the pain lies something beautiful. It's buried deep, so good luck digging it up.
Our story might be ugly, but sometimes you don't appreciate beauty until you've seen the worst.
It's real.
It's pure.
It's raw.
Most importantly, it's ours.
*Adult content and language
*Stand-alone
*Dual POV
*Not intended for readers under 18
266 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 22, 2016
468 people are currently reading
1803 people want to read
About the author
C.M. Owens
65 books8,930 followersC.M. Owens only writes romance, but she's a sub-genre whore.
She has two other pen names that she writes under.
Kristy Cunning for Reverse Harem and S.T. Abby for her darker/stabby books.
She has two other pen names that she writes under.
Kristy Cunning for Reverse Harem and S.T. Abby for her darker/stabby books.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 253 reviews
May 10, 2016
3.75 Eagles STARS
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The title, cover, and blurb caught my eye for this book and I definitely did enjoy this second chance love story. The heroine’s mental issues later are exposed in the present where hard to grasp for me/and connect to her. These issues take center stage when I just wanted their romance to remain in the spotlight. The past chapters establish their epic love while the early present gift angsty interactions that had me completely hooked.
Mika Dalton visits a small town in Georgia called Hayden each summer and spends all her time with Chase James. As the years go by their friendship grows into relationship.
Mika and Chase had big plans once they turn eighteen but sadly their relationship falls apart. Over a decade later, Mika decides to return to the town and purchase the bowling alley and make at least one of their dreams a reality. Thinking the coast is clear of Chase James she’s shocked to find that he’s back in his home town none too happy to see her.
”Be smart about this, Chase. Don’t break a girl who’s already broken.”
Chase reveals his reasons for her their breakup while he starts to notice changes in her behavior that he never noticed before. This is where the author gives big reveals as to what has changed about Mika (a bit much for the vibe of this story however, with that type of injury possible). Chase shows Mika that he’s in it for the long haul and that she’s the only person for him.
”Just tell me how to make it work. I’ll worry about the rest.”
[image error]
The title, cover, and blurb caught my eye for this book and I definitely did enjoy this second chance love story. The heroine’s mental issues later are exposed in the present where hard to grasp for me/and connect to her. These issues take center stage when I just wanted their romance to remain in the spotlight. The past chapters establish their epic love while the early present gift angsty interactions that had me completely hooked.
Mika Dalton visits a small town in Georgia called Hayden each summer and spends all her time with Chase James. As the years go by their friendship grows into relationship.
Mika and Chase had big plans once they turn eighteen but sadly their relationship falls apart. Over a decade later, Mika decides to return to the town and purchase the bowling alley and make at least one of their dreams a reality. Thinking the coast is clear of Chase James she’s shocked to find that he’s back in his home town none too happy to see her.
”Be smart about this, Chase. Don’t break a girl who’s already broken.”
Chase reveals his reasons for her their breakup while he starts to notice changes in her behavior that he never noticed before. This is where the author gives big reveals as to what has changed about Mika (a bit much for the vibe of this story however, with that type of injury possible). Chase shows Mika that he’s in it for the long haul and that she’s the only person for him.
”Just tell me how to make it work. I’ll worry about the rest.”
May 7, 2016
★★★ 6 Stars ★★★
This book is crazy good. I am impressed! I couldn't stop reading :)
So many emotions were captured in it. I fell in love with all the characters!!!!
I will keep an eye for C.M. Owens books.
This book is crazy good. I am impressed! I couldn't stop reading :)
So many emotions were captured in it. I fell in love with all the characters!!!!
I will keep an eye for C.M. Owens books.
May 4, 2016
3- 3.25 stars. This was an interesting book. I wasn't sure what to expect because the blurb is vague. I wish I had read a review with spoilers so I could have had some warning. So I will write one, in case anyone else wants to know what this book is about before reading it.
Non-detailed content spoiler:
What this book is about:
What bothered me:
What I did like:
My thoughts:
Non-detailed content spoiler:
What this book is about:
What bothered me:
What I did like:
My thoughts:
May 2, 2016
The synopsis was intriguing but this was not what I would call a romance.
I won't go over the storyline as the five star reviews have covered it, but what I will say is that I didn't think the author spent enough time on their past when they supposedly fell in love and so I never felt this huge connection that they had and that lasted 12 years before they meet again. I didn't mind the parts when they reconnected although I did feel a bit sorry for Chase's girlfriend but the author had her sleep with Mika's brother as I presume a way for the reader not to think Chase was a bit of a cr*p boyfriend.
It's obvious there is something wrong with Mika and I kept reading as I was intrigued to find out what but when we find out, I just found the story became less of a romance and more about her 'illness'. It's not depressing, it's just rather boring. It went on and on and on...the romance took a complete back story.
I've read books by this author before and she's a prolific author and has a huge fan base but with this being a 'one off', I'm beginning to wonder if it was something she wrote years ago and never finished and decided to now publish it. It lacked a lot of what I normally like in her writing.
This wasn't my cup of tea.
I won't go over the storyline as the five star reviews have covered it, but what I will say is that I didn't think the author spent enough time on their past when they supposedly fell in love and so I never felt this huge connection that they had and that lasted 12 years before they meet again. I didn't mind the parts when they reconnected although I did feel a bit sorry for Chase's girlfriend but the author had her sleep with Mika's brother as I presume a way for the reader not to think Chase was a bit of a cr*p boyfriend.
It's obvious there is something wrong with Mika and I kept reading as I was intrigued to find out what but when we find out, I just found the story became less of a romance and more about her 'illness'. It's not depressing, it's just rather boring. It went on and on and on...the romance took a complete back story.
I've read books by this author before and she's a prolific author and has a huge fan base but with this being a 'one off', I'm beginning to wonder if it was something she wrote years ago and never finished and decided to now publish it. It lacked a lot of what I normally like in her writing.
This wasn't my cup of tea.
April 25, 2016
Careful, this one is going to hit you right in the feels.
I'm tempted to bump this up to five stars, for the mere reason that I'm certain my brain woke me up at 3 am to allow me enough time to finish before work. Well played, brain.
I'm not writing more of a review than this, because this is definitely one of those books you should go into blind so as not to spoil the aforementioned feels. Also, lazy.
I'm tempted to bump this up to five stars, for the mere reason that I'm certain my brain woke me up at 3 am to allow me enough time to finish before work. Well played, brain.
I'm not writing more of a review than this, because this is definitely one of those books you should go into blind so as not to spoil the aforementioned feels. Also, lazy.
Read
April 25, 2016It's LIVE!!!
Amazon US - http://www.amazon.com/Pieces-Summer-s...
Amazon UK - https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/aw/d/B01E...
Amazon AU - https://www.amazon.com.au/gp/aw/d/B01...
Amazon CA - https://www.amazon.ca/gp/aw/d/B01EPCXCU8
iBooks - https://itun.es/us/g7macb.l
Kobo - https://store.kobobooks.com/en-us/ebo...
Amazon US - http://www.amazon.com/Pieces-Summer-s...
Amazon UK - https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/aw/d/B01E...
Amazon AU - https://www.amazon.com.au/gp/aw/d/B01...
Amazon CA - https://www.amazon.ca/gp/aw/d/B01EPCXCU8
iBooks - https://itun.es/us/g7macb.l
Kobo - https://store.kobobooks.com/en-us/ebo...
May 5, 2016
Yup, that'd be me during and after reading this. This was crazy good. I was over and under the moon way too many times throughout the story. The sucka that I am for friends=lovers from a very early age was is exactly how it started... 12 years earlier between Chase and Mika at the age of 16. Upon learning this I was beyond giddy! I knew I was going to love it!
"What if we didn't do our own thing anymore?"
"What if we promised each other we'd be loyal until the next summer?" "Would you do that? Just wait for me?" ~~CHASE
"Would you do that?" ~~MIKA
"For you? Yeah, Mika. I would."
[image error]
Oh my, these two only spent summers together when Mika's family would vacation at their lake house in a small town. Yeah, just 3 months out of the year but every single minute was theirs. Chase's background is sad and pathetic and Mika comes from money. She loved him unconditionally whereas the entire small town treated him like the trash they believed the James family to be.
The plans these two had when they were going to turn 18 was shattered when Mika didn't return the following summer after her last visit. I wanted to throw my Kindle. That summer came and went without Mika being able to make contact with Chase.
Over the next 11 years we know nothing of what had happened in Mika's life. I was blown away when I got to it after getting tidbits here and there which did no good at helping me figure anything out. Everything was so damn weird.
Once the answers start coming, my brain is so stressed trying to figure that shit out.
I adored Chase from the get go as the young broken boy and when all is said and done, I love Chase the man, to no end.
Freakinfantastic read, I enjoyed every damn minute. It was perfect!
January 6, 2018
I'm a little late to the party on this one. I began it quite a while ago and abandoned it. I didn't recall why until I was further into it. The final result is that I skimmed the last 30%. I couldn't take any more.
What I find particularly disheartening in the world of self-publishing is the lack of respect given to potential readers.
An overwhelming percentage of people who publish these days fancy they wrote a worthy story and by God, they want it read. Period. They don't care about putting forth their best effort and offering a quality product that people might spend their hard-earned money on. Nope. It's all about being seen. Never mind they don't know HOW to write a book. Believability, continuity, consistency, all essential, yet too often lacking. The same with developing relatable characters and the execution of dialogue that feels natural. However, the failure to properly research a key plot component is perhaps the laziest, most offensive characteristic of all. As a long-time reader who has had a love affair with this pastime since the age of 3, it's staggering how little regard there is for responsible storytelling these days. If a writer knows little to nothing about the subject their story hinges on and doesn't rectify that BEFORE publication, it's like an F-you to potential readers. I don't give a toss about a writer's talent, insulting the intelligence of readers is inexcusable.
Which brings me here. This writer is competent and the writing itself isn't bad. Nevertheless, in my opinion, she wrote a story without benefit of knowing what she was talking about. This unfortunate issue wasn't, as in some cases, compensated for in any way. Like murdering a few plot bunnies clurrering the works, for instance. Or how about strong, sympathetic main characters?
The heroine, Mika was a black hole that sucked light and happiness into oblivion. I felt no compassion for her. And the only way Chase could have earned my respect would have been to drop that girl like a hot rock. She 'killed' him repeatedly in the books she wrote, for pity's sake. That's not a positive sign. He should have heeded the destiny of male black widow spiders after they mate, and ran like hell.
*possible spoilers*
Mika has annoying 'issues' that are annoyingly revealed in drips and drabs. The tedious mystery as to WHY extends beyond the boundary of curiosity into 'I don't give a shit anymore' territory. By the time a blow to the head, a poorly quantified botched surgery and unethical psychiatric practises are revealed as reasons for her 'quirkiness,' I detested her. She was indelibly painted in my mind as a self-centered, self-indulgent, self-pitying coward resigned to a life of misery.
I understand 'artistic license,' but if you're going to talk the talk than walk the walk. Do the proper research. I'm aware that predicting how the human brain functions and responds to injury is inexact, but let's err on the side of caution, shall we? Aside from poor impulse control, Mika's symptoms were not consistent with TBI. If the writer wanted to write about serious mental disorders - components of schizophrenia, OCD and attention-seeking behaviours associated with a personality disorder - then she should have stuck with that. If she wanted to realistically portray someone with a TBI, she should have been responsible and done her homework. Many of Mika's symptoms lierally made no rational sense, and I can only guess the writer didn't concern herself with the readers that wouldn't take her words as gospel.
In the real world, Mika would spend her life in and out of psych units.The implication that she couldn't be medicated was just stupid. Perhaps amping up the challenges Mika faced was to make her struggles for independence more inspiring.
Not for this reader. I found it all deeply irritating. I guarantee you Mika's behaviour would have her on a minimum 72-hour hold, in restraints if necessary, and certainly with a shot of thorazine in her ass. She would be on antipsychotic meds, and if necessary several would be tried until she was subdued. It's unlikely she would be able to live independently, given all the random things that might unhinge her.
And love? Forget about love. Unless there was serious pay involved, nobody in their right mind would memorise lists, nor retrain their own normal behaviour patterns to be compatible with her numerous triggers. Sorry folks, but someone going to that extent isn't romantic or sexy. It's called 'co-dependence,' and it's. Not. Healthy. It isn't grounds for an HEA.
People are by nature selfish, and no normal person is going to subject themselves to a life dictated by Mika's level of dysfunction. A relationship like that is destined to fail.
This book is romantic fiction, not romantic fantasy. There is a difference between suspension of belief and checking one's intelligence at the door. I won't bother myself again with a writer who assumes I will.
What I find particularly disheartening in the world of self-publishing is the lack of respect given to potential readers.
An overwhelming percentage of people who publish these days fancy they wrote a worthy story and by God, they want it read. Period. They don't care about putting forth their best effort and offering a quality product that people might spend their hard-earned money on. Nope. It's all about being seen. Never mind they don't know HOW to write a book. Believability, continuity, consistency, all essential, yet too often lacking. The same with developing relatable characters and the execution of dialogue that feels natural. However, the failure to properly research a key plot component is perhaps the laziest, most offensive characteristic of all. As a long-time reader who has had a love affair with this pastime since the age of 3, it's staggering how little regard there is for responsible storytelling these days. If a writer knows little to nothing about the subject their story hinges on and doesn't rectify that BEFORE publication, it's like an F-you to potential readers. I don't give a toss about a writer's talent, insulting the intelligence of readers is inexcusable.
Which brings me here. This writer is competent and the writing itself isn't bad. Nevertheless, in my opinion, she wrote a story without benefit of knowing what she was talking about. This unfortunate issue wasn't, as in some cases, compensated for in any way. Like murdering a few plot bunnies clurrering the works, for instance. Or how about strong, sympathetic main characters?
The heroine, Mika was a black hole that sucked light and happiness into oblivion. I felt no compassion for her. And the only way Chase could have earned my respect would have been to drop that girl like a hot rock. She 'killed' him repeatedly in the books she wrote, for pity's sake. That's not a positive sign. He should have heeded the destiny of male black widow spiders after they mate, and ran like hell.
*possible spoilers*
Mika has annoying 'issues' that are annoyingly revealed in drips and drabs. The tedious mystery as to WHY extends beyond the boundary of curiosity into 'I don't give a shit anymore' territory. By the time a blow to the head, a poorly quantified botched surgery and unethical psychiatric practises are revealed as reasons for her 'quirkiness,' I detested her. She was indelibly painted in my mind as a self-centered, self-indulgent, self-pitying coward resigned to a life of misery.
I understand 'artistic license,' but if you're going to talk the talk than walk the walk. Do the proper research. I'm aware that predicting how the human brain functions and responds to injury is inexact, but let's err on the side of caution, shall we? Aside from poor impulse control, Mika's symptoms were not consistent with TBI. If the writer wanted to write about serious mental disorders - components of schizophrenia, OCD and attention-seeking behaviours associated with a personality disorder - then she should have stuck with that. If she wanted to realistically portray someone with a TBI, she should have been responsible and done her homework. Many of Mika's symptoms lierally made no rational sense, and I can only guess the writer didn't concern herself with the readers that wouldn't take her words as gospel.
In the real world, Mika would spend her life in and out of psych units.The implication that she couldn't be medicated was just stupid. Perhaps amping up the challenges Mika faced was to make her struggles for independence more inspiring.
Not for this reader. I found it all deeply irritating. I guarantee you Mika's behaviour would have her on a minimum 72-hour hold, in restraints if necessary, and certainly with a shot of thorazine in her ass. She would be on antipsychotic meds, and if necessary several would be tried until she was subdued. It's unlikely she would be able to live independently, given all the random things that might unhinge her.
And love? Forget about love. Unless there was serious pay involved, nobody in their right mind would memorise lists, nor retrain their own normal behaviour patterns to be compatible with her numerous triggers. Sorry folks, but someone going to that extent isn't romantic or sexy. It's called 'co-dependence,' and it's. Not. Healthy. It isn't grounds for an HEA.
People are by nature selfish, and no normal person is going to subject themselves to a life dictated by Mika's level of dysfunction. A relationship like that is destined to fail.
This book is romantic fiction, not romantic fantasy. There is a difference between suspension of belief and checking one's intelligence at the door. I won't bother myself again with a writer who assumes I will.
November 26, 2019
After finishing an AWESOME serial killer/FBI series by S.T. Abbey I heard that she also wrote as C.M Owens - so I was excited to give her romance a try! I ended up loving this one ~ 4 stars!!!!
I definitely fell for this story ~ Chase and Mika had a strong bond that started in childhood and strengthened every summer on the Alabama lake! Sad circumstances broke them apart but years later they find themselves back in town...together! Their connection was unstoppable and I adored seeing their hopes and dreams take shape, despite the cards being stacked against them!! A unique story of mental illness and sacrifice! I won't say much more as I loved the way it built and revealed as it jumped back and forth past and future.
I definitely fell for this story ~ Chase and Mika had a strong bond that started in childhood and strengthened every summer on the Alabama lake! Sad circumstances broke them apart but years later they find themselves back in town...together! Their connection was unstoppable and I adored seeing their hopes and dreams take shape, despite the cards being stacked against them!! A unique story of mental illness and sacrifice! I won't say much more as I loved the way it built and revealed as it jumped back and forth past and future.
May 10, 2016
4-4,5 αστέρια
Ήταν πολύ καλό αυτό το βιβλίο. Το πιάνεις στα χέρια σου και δεν θέλεις να το αφήσεις μέχρι να μπορέσεις να καταλάβεις τι στο καλό συμβαίνει. Φυσικά η ιστορία εξελίσσεται και αποκαλύπτεται από τους ίδιους τους πρωταγωνιστές, αφού πρόκειται για πρωτοπρόσωπη αφήγηση και των δύο.
Μια δυνατή ιστορία που αξίζει το χρόνο αυτών που θα θελήσουν να της τον αφιερώσουν. Προσωπικά για μένα ήταν ένα καλό διάλειμμα.
Και θα αναφέρω για άλλη μια φορά, γιατί πραγματικά έχει αρχίσει να γίνεται ενοχλητικό πια, το εξώφυλλο είναι άστοχο και άσχετο. Είναι κρίμα να παρουσιάζονται ενδιαφέροντα βιβλία, με δυνατές, συγκινητικές ιστορίες που έχουν κάτι να πουν σαν να πρόκειται για τσοντοβιβλία. Και ναι το λέω αυτό εγώ που έχω διαβάσει και αγαπήσει άπειρα του είδους. Το λέω εγώ που δεν χαλιέμαι καθόλου να βλέπω κοιλιακούς και όμορφα κορμιά, όμως νομίζω πως δεν είναι για όλα τα βιβλία. Ειδικά στο συγκεκριμένο που δεν το κατατάσσω καν στην κατηγορία των ερωτικών.
Εντάξει αποχωρώ, φτάνει η γκρίνια, πάω για άλλα.
Ήταν πολύ καλό αυτό το βιβλίο. Το πιάνεις στα χέρια σου και δεν θέλεις να το αφήσεις μέχρι να μπορέσεις να καταλάβεις τι στο καλό συμβαίνει. Φυσικά η ιστορία εξελίσσεται και αποκαλύπτεται από τους ίδιους τους πρωταγωνιστές, αφού πρόκειται για πρωτοπρόσωπη αφήγηση και των δύο.
Μια δυνατή ιστορία που αξίζει το χρόνο αυτών που θα θελήσουν να της τον αφιερώσουν. Προσωπικά για μένα ήταν ένα καλό διάλειμμα.
Και θα αναφέρω για άλλη μια φορά, γιατί πραγματικά έχει αρχίσει να γίνεται ενοχλητικό πια, το εξώφυλλο είναι άστοχο και άσχετο. Είναι κρίμα να παρουσιάζονται ενδιαφέροντα βιβλία, με δυνατές, συγκινητικές ιστορίες που έχουν κάτι να πουν σαν να πρόκειται για τσοντοβιβλία. Και ναι το λέω αυτό εγώ που έχω διαβάσει και αγαπήσει άπειρα του είδους. Το λέω εγώ που δεν χαλιέμαι καθόλου να βλέπω κοιλιακούς και όμορφα κορμιά, όμως νομίζω πως δεν είναι για όλα τα βιβλία. Ειδικά στο συγκεκριμένο που δεν το κατατάσσω καν στην κατηγορία των ερωτικών.
Εντάξει αποχωρώ, φτάνει η γκρίνια, πάω για άλλα.
November 19, 2020
Ok to start off with: I don't include spoilers in my reviews.. I do my best not to mention anything that could ruin a part, a piece or well the whole darn plot. To me every part of the book makes a book. And for anyone wondering..NO I'm not being asked to make this review. I purchased the book, but felt so strongly to have to review it.
My opinion about this book. Well, I guess I should be honest and say that I love this author, I've enjoyed every book she's written. That being said..this book hold's no exception. It actually goes far beyond how much I've enjoyed her writing and the books she's published before. This book is one of the best books I've ever read.
Not even halfway through I'm sitting and realizing that this book takes you so deep into the emotions, so deep into the lives of the characters...it sort of hit me that in my personal opinion this is a best seller. To me, this book could be made into a blockbuster movie (easy based on the writing) and it'd be an Oscar worthy film.
The journey you go through for the main character, Mika...just wow. You never really get a better understanding until you finish. Let me explain that, every point where you think you "know" them...you think you're figuring out who they are - what they're about...she moves you to feel more of her life. The layers of her emotions and experiences are so beautiful. And Chase: well as expected he just makes you want to sigh. Hotness in more ways than one (and I don't mean physically)...again, C.M. Owens adds depth to his character.
You think you know the story, you think you know what you're going to get but you simply get more. She does an amazing job in this book because you keep getting more invested with each moment, not knowing where you'll end up but rather you FEEL as you move forward. She even finishs the book without it being a sappy over finished ending, or quick here's an epilogue ...you just feel as simply as I can put it: content. Calm, happy, full. There's nothing missing from the experience, nothing making you feel as if there could be more. There isn't. It's perfect.
You get moments you laugh, moments you cry, moments you're simply happy and find joy. It takes all I've experienced with her writing and blew it all out of the water. There's no need for more story, it's literally perfect. (Ok I've used that word already - I know).
I wish I could express far better how GOOD this book is. How amazing the journey is from start to finish. Not enough words could express how fulfilled the reading experience is when you've finished the last page and you reflect the entire story line, the growth of the characters and the feelings it's left you with.
Drama, with love and real emotions are what you find in this book. Not drama in the chaotic immature kind but the deep mix of good and bad moments all equaling out into this mixture of raw truth. It may as well be someone's "true story" because it really feels real. Like when you watch a romantic drama movie based on someone's life...you get the same vibes from this book.
I can't value high enough this novel/story/book. READ it, enjoy it...it's an experience and journey I recommend to anyone who enjoys a GOOD book. You can't lose from getting your hands on a copy, buying it via ebook or paperback or whichever format you can get your hands on...it won't matter. You simply are not wasting a cent.
I hope if you're reading this it helps you, if we know each other or not...I recommend this to friends, family, co-workers or strangers alike. Support this author, but more importantly it's one of those books you won't regret even once.
So to the author, C.M. Owens...if you read this: thank you. I love your books, but this one...it's special. I feel honoured to have been able to read it.
My opinion about this book. Well, I guess I should be honest and say that I love this author, I've enjoyed every book she's written. That being said..this book hold's no exception. It actually goes far beyond how much I've enjoyed her writing and the books she's published before. This book is one of the best books I've ever read.
Not even halfway through I'm sitting and realizing that this book takes you so deep into the emotions, so deep into the lives of the characters...it sort of hit me that in my personal opinion this is a best seller. To me, this book could be made into a blockbuster movie (easy based on the writing) and it'd be an Oscar worthy film.
The journey you go through for the main character, Mika...just wow. You never really get a better understanding until you finish. Let me explain that, every point where you think you "know" them...you think you're figuring out who they are - what they're about...she moves you to feel more of her life. The layers of her emotions and experiences are so beautiful. And Chase: well as expected he just makes you want to sigh. Hotness in more ways than one (and I don't mean physically)...again, C.M. Owens adds depth to his character.
You think you know the story, you think you know what you're going to get but you simply get more. She does an amazing job in this book because you keep getting more invested with each moment, not knowing where you'll end up but rather you FEEL as you move forward. She even finishs the book without it being a sappy over finished ending, or quick here's an epilogue ...you just feel as simply as I can put it: content. Calm, happy, full. There's nothing missing from the experience, nothing making you feel as if there could be more. There isn't. It's perfect.
You get moments you laugh, moments you cry, moments you're simply happy and find joy. It takes all I've experienced with her writing and blew it all out of the water. There's no need for more story, it's literally perfect. (Ok I've used that word already - I know).
I wish I could express far better how GOOD this book is. How amazing the journey is from start to finish. Not enough words could express how fulfilled the reading experience is when you've finished the last page and you reflect the entire story line, the growth of the characters and the feelings it's left you with.
Drama, with love and real emotions are what you find in this book. Not drama in the chaotic immature kind but the deep mix of good and bad moments all equaling out into this mixture of raw truth. It may as well be someone's "true story" because it really feels real. Like when you watch a romantic drama movie based on someone's life...you get the same vibes from this book.
I can't value high enough this novel/story/book. READ it, enjoy it...it's an experience and journey I recommend to anyone who enjoys a GOOD book. You can't lose from getting your hands on a copy, buying it via ebook or paperback or whichever format you can get your hands on...it won't matter. You simply are not wasting a cent.
I hope if you're reading this it helps you, if we know each other or not...I recommend this to friends, family, co-workers or strangers alike. Support this author, but more importantly it's one of those books you won't regret even once.
So to the author, C.M. Owens...if you read this: thank you. I love your books, but this one...it's special. I feel honoured to have been able to read it.
April 24, 2016
This broke me, it is such an intense story between Mika and Chase who find friendship which turns to love in their teenage years every summer when Mika stays with her father over the summer break. Their love and connection is unique and never ends, even when they stopped seeing each other for 12 years their love never died and even though they tried to move on they never could. Both Mika and Chase believed it was the other who caused the break up never realising what truly happened until 10 years later.
Mika is forced to live with life changing consequences after a series of events change her life forever, she will never be the same again.
This is truly a tragic love story that is both shocking and heartbreaking, my heart broke for Mika learning of the night that changed her life forever and everyone around her. Aidan is her saviour in so many ways after the accident and surgery (not only her brother) he has basically put his life on hold to ensure his sister is looked after and safe from herself.....
Hunter is also a friend she met during her therapy appointments who turned out to be just a close as family, always there for both Mika and Aidan,
Although this was a seriously emotional read I have to mention the laugh out loud moments between Whit and her old bag neighbour Mrs Penderson, these scenes had me crying with laughter....
To sum it all up it is an emotional book that touches on so many different levels but comes out the other side with you smiling and feeling so much better for reading their journey!
# Because it's too good to hold on to. It defies the balance
Mika is forced to live with life changing consequences after a series of events change her life forever, she will never be the same again.
This is truly a tragic love story that is both shocking and heartbreaking, my heart broke for Mika learning of the night that changed her life forever and everyone around her. Aidan is her saviour in so many ways after the accident and surgery (not only her brother) he has basically put his life on hold to ensure his sister is looked after and safe from herself.....
Hunter is also a friend she met during her therapy appointments who turned out to be just a close as family, always there for both Mika and Aidan,
Although this was a seriously emotional read I have to mention the laugh out loud moments between Whit and her old bag neighbour Mrs Penderson, these scenes had me crying with laughter....
To sum it all up it is an emotional book that touches on so many different levels but comes out the other side with you smiling and feeling so much better for reading their journey!
# Because it's too good to hold on to. It defies the balance
April 6, 2018
https://romanticcynicblog.wordpress.c...
Beware of Spoilers!
Star Ratings:
Heroine (Mika): 28yrs old
Hero (Chase): 28yrs old
Plot: 4/5
Grovel: kind of
Cheating: none
HEA: yes
Triggers: H has a girlfriend when h returns to town, self-harm
Average score: 4.5/5
Best Line: “You were always my light too”
Worst Line: “Summer was intense. I’m the one who ended it, Whit. Not her.”
Personal Review:
An interesting second chance romance between an author and a tattoo artist
Random Ramblings:
•Wow, first I’ve read about a h losing her virginity before the H
•Shame he becomes a manwhore during their separation
•Uh oh…the OW works in the building the h just bought!
•I really liked H’s response to OW accusation that he didn’t care about her
•I understand why her dad told him that
•I was expecting her letters to not reach him but to find out he intentionally ignored her letters makes we wonder why he was sooooo angry with her for returning
•I LOVED that the h and the OW had a mature conversation
•I am so curious
•Dubious ethics with the so-called psychiatrist
•I so am confused right now but I’m willing to go with it
•I can’t imagine living without timings
•That scene…I would have done the same
•Well, I was NOT expecting the story to go in that direction but it sure was original
Overall Feeling:
Beware of Spoilers!
Star Ratings:
Heroine (Mika): 28yrs old
Hero (Chase): 28yrs old
Plot: 4/5
Grovel: kind of
Cheating: none
HEA: yes
Triggers: H has a girlfriend when h returns to town, self-harm
Average score: 4.5/5
Best Line: “You were always my light too”
Worst Line: “Summer was intense. I’m the one who ended it, Whit. Not her.”
Personal Review:
An interesting second chance romance between an author and a tattoo artist
Random Ramblings:
•Wow, first I’ve read about a h losing her virginity before the H
•Shame he becomes a manwhore during their separation
•Uh oh…the OW works in the building the h just bought!
•I really liked H’s response to OW accusation that he didn’t care about her
•I understand why her dad told him that
•I was expecting her letters to not reach him but to find out he intentionally ignored her letters makes we wonder why he was sooooo angry with her for returning
•I LOVED that the h and the OW had a mature conversation
•I am so curious
•Dubious ethics with the so-called psychiatrist
•I so am confused right now but I’m willing to go with it
•I can’t imagine living without timings
•That scene…I would have done the same
•Well, I was NOT expecting the story to go in that direction but it sure was original
Overall Feeling:
May 2, 2016
Packed with a whole lot of angst , emotions and heat ! Surprisingly good !
January 3, 2018
DNF
There is nothing wrong with this book, I guess this was just a case of "It's not you, it's me". I couldn't connect with the characters and the story no matter how hard I tried.
There is nothing wrong with this book, I guess this was just a case of "It's not you, it's me". I couldn't connect with the characters and the story no matter how hard I tried.
July 30, 2023
This book was so good but it was so sad as well. The reality of a mental health condition from a traumatic brain injury is more often than not forever. This author wrote a happy ending for her FMC but odds are more likely to have been that the MMC at some point in life would have been worn down by all drama and the fact he would have had to give up on having children. Granted this MMC never stated a desire for children but sometimes it comes with age.
I loved that the MMC was all about his love of the FMC. That was the only reason why this plot line worked. He only ever made decisions based on her happiness and wellbeing right from the beginning. As for the incident that lead to all of this mess, it was only mentioned a few times but I feel like this author could have given it more page time for more emotional effect. Still, it was well done and while I was left with the question of what happened to the evil uncle, I have to say it was elaborated enough for my satisfaction.
This is the second book I’ve read by this author and I HATE that she has passed away. She truly had talent as this book and the first one I read “The Redo”, were truly entertaining, enjoyable and well written. I am currently trying to buy her full catalog because I’m afraid it may get pulled down one day. I do find it hard to read her work posthumous as I am left with wanting more from her. In essence I feel her loss. This book has a heavier theme than “The Redo”, did so be warned. The Redo was more shallower and flaky in a way but still worth reading.
Enjoy and good luck. We aren’t promised tomorrow we can only live for today.
I loved that the MMC was all about his love of the FMC. That was the only reason why this plot line worked. He only ever made decisions based on her happiness and wellbeing right from the beginning. As for the incident that lead to all of this mess, it was only mentioned a few times but I feel like this author could have given it more page time for more emotional effect. Still, it was well done and while I was left with the question of what happened to the evil uncle, I have to say it was elaborated enough for my satisfaction.
This is the second book I’ve read by this author and I HATE that she has passed away. She truly had talent as this book and the first one I read “The Redo”, were truly entertaining, enjoyable and well written. I am currently trying to buy her full catalog because I’m afraid it may get pulled down one day. I do find it hard to read her work posthumous as I am left with wanting more from her. In essence I feel her loss. This book has a heavier theme than “The Redo”, did so be warned. The Redo was more shallower and flaky in a way but still worth reading.
Enjoy and good luck. We aren’t promised tomorrow we can only live for today.
August 31, 2016
2.5 - 3 stars
This book won't be for everyone and I wasn't impressed with the hero and his bullshit reasons/excuses for his behaviour way back when and in the present. But I liked the heroine, her brother and their friend, Hunter. I also liked Whit (who starts off being the girlfriend of the hero). I kind of rolled my eyes at how the author made everything okay between them all, but it's nice reading about someone placed in the 'other woman' role and have them not be a bitch :)
This book won't be for everyone and I wasn't impressed with the hero and his bullshit reasons/excuses for his behaviour way back when and in the present. But I liked the heroine, her brother and their friend, Hunter. I also liked Whit (who starts off being the girlfriend of the hero). I kind of rolled my eyes at how the author made everything okay between them all, but it's nice reading about someone placed in the 'other woman' role and have them not be a bitch :)
May 4, 2016
A lovely story.
October 5, 2024
This was emotionally rough. The couple went through an avalanche of misunderstandings, bad timing and personal disasters - nearly throughout the book I couldn't see how the couple could reach their HEA.
I wasn't personally convinced by the ending - it felt a little simplistic and unrealistic considering the complexity of the heroine's mental disorder and trauma. But life is sometimes complicated and I don't have to agree with the author's way of "resolving" the conflict.
That said, the writing was compelling, and I appreciated that the intimate scenes were not too excessive (which made for easy skipping - most of them didn't contribute to the relationship development and felt perfunctory). I may pick up another of this author's work.
I wasn't personally convinced by the ending - it felt a little simplistic and unrealistic considering the complexity of the heroine's mental disorder and trauma. But life is sometimes complicated and I don't have to agree with the author's way of "resolving" the conflict.
That said, the writing was compelling, and I appreciated that the intimate scenes were not too excessive (which made for easy skipping - most of them didn't contribute to the relationship development and felt perfunctory). I may pick up another of this author's work.
May 11, 2021
2.5 ⭐
nope
April 6, 2018Oh my... 🙄🙄🙄🙄😬
When I read a review that says the heroine is unlikable I have this ingrained in my mind and if I read the book I’ll surely find her hateful. It happened before.
Among everything else this reviewer wrote.
👇👇👇👇👇👇👇
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
When I read a review that says the heroine is unlikable I have this ingrained in my mind and if I read the book I’ll surely find her hateful. It happened before.
Among everything else this reviewer wrote.
👇👇👇👇👇👇👇
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
August 19, 2016
This second chance love story was a pleasant surprise for me. I really enjoyed this not over angsty read. I loved Mika and Chase, both likable characters with sad, heartbreaking pasts. The storyline was I felt a little different and wow...the subject matter so emotional. I found a new author to explore as I liked C.M. Owens's writing style. A nice read about second chances, great friendships, moving on and SACRIFICE !! Chase is a gem of a BF.
May 27, 2020
This was really different from typical CM stuff I've read. It has angst and it was so much more heartbreaking than I've ever known. However, it's still just as great as any other story she's written. The thing about CM that I love is that she really thinks out her stories. Honestly, she could shit on paper and I'd still read it.
January 2, 2025
A marvelous, epic masterpiece! A beautifully gut wrenching love story! The author never disappoints in delivering twisty and complex, fun and angsty stories! Love every word in all her books!
:༻🐞༺: Highly recommended! :༻🐞༺:
:༻🐞༺: Highly recommended! :༻🐞༺:
January 22, 2021
This is the only book by this author that I haven't liked. Too much angst and unnecessary drama for the sake of it.
September 11, 2018
Mybe modt of you will like it and give this book. Four or five stars but for me nah........
I didnt like the reason behind their seperation. And this doesnt make Chase right after 12 years to continue to relationship nope. Not for me
I didnt like the reason behind their seperation. And this doesnt make Chase right after 12 years to continue to relationship nope. Not for me
November 19, 2023
This was an incredibly devastating and beautiful story! I personally felt a tidal wave of emotion; my eyes watered during the reveal of the entire truth surrounding the Mental Health situation. Which was a big mystery during the entire book.
This isn’t just a love story, it’s a life story that broke my heart; because of how intense the situations that these characters were put in and how they dealt with it.
But, per usual C.M. Owens knows how to smoothly include balance. Along with the hard hitting themes, there were a handful of “Laugh Out Loud” moments. I am pretty sure I was full on cackling a few times.
The flow, the characters, the conclusion, and the Epilogue?! It was perfection in my opinion. I loved this so, so much!
This isn’t just a love story, it’s a life story that broke my heart; because of how intense the situations that these characters were put in and how they dealt with it.
But, per usual C.M. Owens knows how to smoothly include balance. Along with the hard hitting themes, there were a handful of “Laugh Out Loud” moments. I am pretty sure I was full on cackling a few times.
The flow, the characters, the conclusion, and the Epilogue?! It was perfection in my opinion. I loved this so, so much!
Want to read
April 2, 2020 🎁 FREE on Amazon today (4/2/2020)! 🎁
May 6, 2023
Emotional, Heartbreaking but Beautiful in the end.
First I want to say I miss this Author, I miss her writing style. I can't believe I missed this book over the years.
This book is Beautiful but in a tragic way and has a great ending. Mika and Chase ha e been in love for many years. We get to ride the emotional rollercoaster that is their relationship. Mika has been through so much and Chase he wanted her back so bad he made some major changes within himself.
First I want to say I miss this Author, I miss her writing style. I can't believe I missed this book over the years.
This book is Beautiful but in a tragic way and has a great ending. Mika and Chase ha e been in love for many years. We get to ride the emotional rollercoaster that is their relationship. Mika has been through so much and Chase he wanted her back so bad he made some major changes within himself.
May 30, 2016
I HAVE NO CLUE AS TO HOW SOME PEOPLE GAVE THIS BOOK ANYTHING LESS THAN 5 STARS.
With some books I have to spend a couple of minutes waffling between 3 and 4 stars or 4 and 5 stars but not with this book. There was no doubt, pause or hesitation. DEFINITELY 5 STARS. In fact I knew this already about half way through the book with absolute certainty. I LOVE WHEN THAT HAPPENS WITH A BOOK!!!
The synopsis for this book is intriguing, yes but doesn't do it nearly enough justice. However I am not going to go into detail explaining the plot since many reviews before mine do this already. I will simply give a quick list of my reasons for loving this story.
First, and MOST IMPORTANTLY I love this book because the plot is SOOOO unique. Yes there are hundreds of angsty romances out there that deal with mental issues and I've read many of them but this one doesn't leave you feeling weighed down at the end it's more like it leaves you with eyes opened. On a side note: I don't know why a couple of people said this wasn't really a romance cause although I'm no literary scholar, it definitely felt like a second chance romance (stand alone BTW).
Second, I am a romance junkies especially for the steamy sexy scenes and consequently I find myself reading a lot of repetitive descriptions and vocabulary BUT NOT WITH THIS BOOK! Yet I still felt the scenes were very steamy (no erotica or kink).
And finally this book was really well rounded. The plot was built and fished off very strongly. There were no loose ends left to question. The mental issue was explained enough to appreciate the struggle but not so much that it became painfully drawn out completely shadowing the rest of the story. The characters were great. The two main characters were well developed and rounded while the supporting characters enough life and detail to make you want to know what their stories will be.
Thank you C.M. OWENS! You have just become one of my To-Watch-For authors.
With some books I have to spend a couple of minutes waffling between 3 and 4 stars or 4 and 5 stars but not with this book. There was no doubt, pause or hesitation. DEFINITELY 5 STARS. In fact I knew this already about half way through the book with absolute certainty. I LOVE WHEN THAT HAPPENS WITH A BOOK!!!
The synopsis for this book is intriguing, yes but doesn't do it nearly enough justice. However I am not going to go into detail explaining the plot since many reviews before mine do this already. I will simply give a quick list of my reasons for loving this story.
First, and MOST IMPORTANTLY I love this book because the plot is SOOOO unique. Yes there are hundreds of angsty romances out there that deal with mental issues and I've read many of them but this one doesn't leave you feeling weighed down at the end it's more like it leaves you with eyes opened. On a side note: I don't know why a couple of people said this wasn't really a romance cause although I'm no literary scholar, it definitely felt like a second chance romance (stand alone BTW).
Second, I am a romance junkies especially for the steamy sexy scenes and consequently I find myself reading a lot of repetitive descriptions and vocabulary BUT NOT WITH THIS BOOK! Yet I still felt the scenes were very steamy (no erotica or kink).
And finally this book was really well rounded. The plot was built and fished off very strongly. There were no loose ends left to question. The mental issue was explained enough to appreciate the struggle but not so much that it became painfully drawn out completely shadowing the rest of the story. The characters were great. The two main characters were well developed and rounded while the supporting characters enough life and detail to make you want to know what their stories will be.
Thank you C.M. OWENS! You have just become one of my To-Watch-For authors.
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