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Songbird #7
Rough Water
Sometimes love is more than a feeling…it’s a choice.
Justin Doyle loves his new wife, Sarah.
Deeply. Madly. Passionately.
And he wants a divorce.
A few weeks into their marriage an unforeseen tragedy strikes, bringing their lives to a screeching halt.
For Justin, the loss hits him in deep and profound ways. He is wracked with a guilt which feeds his belief that he has never been—will never be—good enough. Sarah tries to be there for him while she deals with her own sadness, but he pushes her away…to a place neither are sure they can recover from.
The one thing they need most is each other. And it’s the one thing they don’t have.
Can they find their way back to the place they were before? Or is wedded bliss just a fairy tale?
Justin Doyle loves his new wife, Sarah.
Deeply. Madly. Passionately.
And he wants a divorce.
A few weeks into their marriage an unforeseen tragedy strikes, bringing their lives to a screeching halt.
For Justin, the loss hits him in deep and profound ways. He is wracked with a guilt which feeds his belief that he has never been—will never be—good enough. Sarah tries to be there for him while she deals with her own sadness, but he pushes her away…to a place neither are sure they can recover from.
The one thing they need most is each other. And it’s the one thing they don’t have.
Can they find their way back to the place they were before? Or is wedded bliss just a fairy tale?
- GenresRomanceContemporary
282 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 20, 2016
9 people are currently reading
265 people want to read
About the author
Melissa Pearl
71 books854 followersMelissa Pearl was born in Auckland, New Zealand, but has spent much of her life abroad, living in countries such as Jordan, Cyprus and Pakistan... not to mention a nine month road trip around North America with her husband. "Best. Year. Ever!!" She is a trained elementary teacher, but writing is her passion. Since becoming a full time mother she has had the opportunity to pursue this dream and her debut novel hit the internet in November 2011. Since then she has continued to produce a steady stream of books, ranging in genres from Fantasy to Romantic Suspense to Contemporary Romance. She loves the variety.
"I am passionate about writing. It stirs a fire in my soul that I never knew I had. I want to be the best writer I can possibly be and transport my readers into another world where they can laugh, cry and fall in love."
Melissa Pearl is a Forever Love Publishing author. If you'd like to download their Starter Library (3 books for FREE), then you can copy and paste this link into your Internet browser: http://bit.ly/FLP_Library
"I am passionate about writing. It stirs a fire in my soul that I never knew I had. I want to be the best writer I can possibly be and transport my readers into another world where they can laugh, cry and fall in love."
Melissa Pearl is a Forever Love Publishing author. If you'd like to download their Starter Library (3 books for FREE), then you can copy and paste this link into your Internet browser: http://bit.ly/FLP_Library
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
January 7, 2020
Rough Water Review
Book Rating: 4 stars out of 5.
Story Line: 4.5 stars out of 5. I enjoyed this book. It was really sad, but amazing . I really felt the emotions of the characters in this one. This book actually made me tear up when I was reading. I understood the grief that the main characters went through.
Sarah and Justin are in bliss when they get married. They have an amazing honeymoon...then they go to England to get ready for Justin's brother's wedding. Blake, Justin's brother asks him, to go check on his wife. That's when tragedy strikes. Justin's brother passes away on his wedding day. That broke my heart completely. I felt so much grief for the main character's. That is something I could not imagine. Still, it hurt me.
After Justin's brother's death their marriage starts to fall apart. Justin doesn't feel like he is good enough for Sarah. He feels like he should have lost his life instead of his brother. That made me want to cry. I guess it' because I could relate. I have felt this way before especially when I lost my great grandmother. It was a hard time in my life. I'm glad I was able to have my great grandmother for 22 years of my life. I know when I lose my grandparent's that are living or my parents I will feel the grief that Justin felt. Losing someone is really hard especially if they are your anchor. I felt like Blake, was Justin's anchor. Someone that he shouldn't have lost.
Justin and Sarah threw themselves into work. Justin is working for Sarah's father at Torrence Records and Sarah is working a Echelon Fashion. One of Sarah's designs is chosen for Vegas. She wants Justin to meet her in Vegas. Sarah's father assigns Justin work. Sarah is so disappointed that Justin couldn't make it that she gets drunk. She ends up sleeping with someone else. This part actually made me angry with her. I couldn't stand her in that moment. Justin realized he wanted to rekindle his relationship with her. I'm glad that she told Justin. She was sorry for what she did.
I'm glad that by the end of the book they are able to find each other again.
Characters: 4 stars out of 5.
Justin- I loved him the most. I could relate to him more than I could relate to Sarah. I felt his grief. I understood him not feeling good enough. I get into those moods myself sometimes. It's hard to pull yourself out of the that dark place. I'm glad he was able to do that.
Sarah- I just didn't like some of her decisions, but she won me over by the end of the book.
Favorite Quote: "Some things are beautiful no matter what the conditions."
Writing Style: 5 stars out of 5. I loved the story telling as usual.
Book Rating: 4 stars out of 5.
Story Line: 4.5 stars out of 5. I enjoyed this book. It was really sad, but amazing . I really felt the emotions of the characters in this one. This book actually made me tear up when I was reading. I understood the grief that the main characters went through.
Sarah and Justin are in bliss when they get married. They have an amazing honeymoon...then they go to England to get ready for Justin's brother's wedding. Blake, Justin's brother asks him, to go check on his wife. That's when tragedy strikes. Justin's brother passes away on his wedding day. That broke my heart completely. I felt so much grief for the main character's. That is something I could not imagine. Still, it hurt me.
After Justin's brother's death their marriage starts to fall apart. Justin doesn't feel like he is good enough for Sarah. He feels like he should have lost his life instead of his brother. That made me want to cry. I guess it' because I could relate. I have felt this way before especially when I lost my great grandmother. It was a hard time in my life. I'm glad I was able to have my great grandmother for 22 years of my life. I know when I lose my grandparent's that are living or my parents I will feel the grief that Justin felt. Losing someone is really hard especially if they are your anchor. I felt like Blake, was Justin's anchor. Someone that he shouldn't have lost.
Justin and Sarah threw themselves into work. Justin is working for Sarah's father at Torrence Records and Sarah is working a Echelon Fashion. One of Sarah's designs is chosen for Vegas. She wants Justin to meet her in Vegas. Sarah's father assigns Justin work. Sarah is so disappointed that Justin couldn't make it that she gets drunk. She ends up sleeping with someone else. This part actually made me angry with her. I couldn't stand her in that moment. Justin realized he wanted to rekindle his relationship with her. I'm glad that she told Justin. She was sorry for what she did.
I'm glad that by the end of the book they are able to find each other again.
Characters: 4 stars out of 5.
Justin- I loved him the most. I could relate to him more than I could relate to Sarah. I felt his grief. I understood him not feeling good enough. I get into those moods myself sometimes. It's hard to pull yourself out of the that dark place. I'm glad he was able to do that.
Sarah- I just didn't like some of her decisions, but she won me over by the end of the book.
Favorite Quote: "Some things are beautiful no matter what the conditions."
Writing Style: 5 stars out of 5. I loved the story telling as usual.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 29, 2016
It was a very nice story.
Despite all the suffering of the characters, they managed to find a way to get back together as they wanted and deserved.
When Sarah told him what happened for the first time Justin I had no choice but to fully understand his reaction. On his shoes I would have done the same. But as I continued to read the story I could see how sorry Sarah was and how much he loved her.
The lesson I learned from this story was that we must fight for what we want no matter how much it costs.
I totally recommend this story! And don't forget to grab the tissues.
Despite all the suffering of the characters, they managed to find a way to get back together as they wanted and deserved.
When Sarah told him what happened for the first time Justin I had no choice but to fully understand his reaction. On his shoes I would have done the same. But as I continued to read the story I could see how sorry Sarah was and how much he loved her.
The lesson I learned from this story was that we must fight for what we want no matter how much it costs.
I totally recommend this story! And don't forget to grab the tissues.
May 24, 2016
3.5 Stars
This is going to be a hard review for me to write. I struggled with Justin for most of the book. Perhaps because I could not relate.
Spoilers ahead so I'm going to hide what I've written.
Others are going to hate this review and that's ok. The author wants my honest opinion, and this is it. I loved Sarah which is how I actually finished the book. If I did not like her, it would have been hard to read. First, it is sad and very emotional. I got that. Overall, I ended up liking this book because of the things that made it emotional, but it took up until the end to get me back to seeing the good guy Justin is. I don't think he deserved anything that happened to him, but I also think everyone is responsible for their actions in reaction to bad situations and his just wasn't what I would have expected. Although I guess you wouldn't have a book without the conflict.
This is going to be a hard review for me to write. I struggled with Justin for most of the book. Perhaps because I could not relate.
Spoilers ahead so I'm going to hide what I've written.
Others are going to hate this review and that's ok. The author wants my honest opinion, and this is it. I loved Sarah which is how I actually finished the book. If I did not like her, it would have been hard to read. First, it is sad and very emotional. I got that. Overall, I ended up liking this book because of the things that made it emotional, but it took up until the end to get me back to seeing the good guy Justin is. I don't think he deserved anything that happened to him, but I also think everyone is responsible for their actions in reaction to bad situations and his just wasn't what I would have expected. Although I guess you wouldn't have a book without the conflict.
May 22, 2016
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3.5 stars -- I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest and unbiased review/opinion.
Well crap. This book didn't work out as well for me as everyone else. I'm not sure if it was just a mood I was in, but I just didn't feel all the emotions that I was expecting to. Now, that's not to say I didn't tear up at points...but I had been anticipating some bawling, and it just didn't come.
Part of it is that I had been anticipating a tragedy at the beginning of the story, and so maybe I just wasn't allowing myself to get sucked in because I was too busy trying to figure out what the tragedy would be? I honestly don't know. All I know is that my cold heart didn't shed a tear. And that made me sad, and so I put the book down and went to bed.
Now when I picked the book up again the next day, I started to get my emotions involved a bit more. I really felt for Justin and all the guilt he was feeling. He definitely made me choke up. I definitely felt for his character and what he was going through. And I actually found the initial part of the book and what they were going through as a couple dealing with the tragedy (badly) to be unfortunately realistic, and I could totally see it happening. And even though this book touches on one of my button issues that normally has me saying a big nope, it was handled in a very realistic manner and it didn't bother me too much (ie it had me squirming a little, but I made it through). Though it probably did affect my connection to Sarah a wee bit.... It's not that I didn't feel for her, but I just ended up connecting with Justin's character more.
In the end I just don't think I was in the mood for such a devastating book, and so I just didn't allow myself to go all in. I felt like the middle part was really well done, but I wasn't convinced with the resolution. I feel so cynical, but I feel like Justin's talk with Marcus was just too easy, and it all wrapped up faster than I was expecting. Again, I don't really know if this was mostly a personal (mood) thing, or if the book itself contributed, but in the end I just wasn't satisfied.
So yeah. I hate writing these reviews. I hate being the odd one out. I had really been looking forward to this book, but in the end it just wasn't really for me. :(
3.5 stars -- I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest and unbiased review/opinion.
Well crap. This book didn't work out as well for me as everyone else. I'm not sure if it was just a mood I was in, but I just didn't feel all the emotions that I was expecting to. Now, that's not to say I didn't tear up at points...but I had been anticipating some bawling, and it just didn't come.
Part of it is that I had been anticipating a tragedy at the beginning of the story, and so maybe I just wasn't allowing myself to get sucked in because I was too busy trying to figure out what the tragedy would be? I honestly don't know. All I know is that my cold heart didn't shed a tear. And that made me sad, and so I put the book down and went to bed.
Now when I picked the book up again the next day, I started to get my emotions involved a bit more. I really felt for Justin and all the guilt he was feeling. He definitely made me choke up. I definitely felt for his character and what he was going through. And I actually found the initial part of the book and what they were going through as a couple dealing with the tragedy (badly) to be unfortunately realistic, and I could totally see it happening. And even though this book touches on one of my button issues that normally has me saying a big nope, it was handled in a very realistic manner and it didn't bother me too much (ie it had me squirming a little, but I made it through). Though it probably did affect my connection to Sarah a wee bit.... It's not that I didn't feel for her, but I just ended up connecting with Justin's character more.
In the end I just don't think I was in the mood for such a devastating book, and so I just didn't allow myself to go all in. I felt like the middle part was really well done, but I wasn't convinced with the resolution. I feel so cynical, but I feel like Justin's talk with Marcus was just too easy, and it all wrapped up faster than I was expecting. Again, I don't really know if this was mostly a personal (mood) thing, or if the book itself contributed, but in the end I just wasn't satisfied.
So yeah. I hate writing these reviews. I hate being the odd one out. I had really been looking forward to this book, but in the end it just wasn't really for me. :(
May 14, 2016
This has got to be my absolute favourite book from the Songbird Novel series! I don't know about the future but for now - hands down - the best one yet!!!
This book is so devastating, moving and yet so intricately beautiful. There were definitely times when I have shed a few sad tears for aches and losses of the two main characters - Justin and Sarah. I have to say that I have heard countless people say that marriage life is hard. That the both of you have to compromise for one another, talk to each other about anything, really and be honest. That is the most important of all because without honesty, then your relationship/marriage is built up by lies.
Justin is a hard headed man - so frustratingly stubborn. Seriously man, get your mind together! He seems like the most perfect husband you can find. So loving and compassionate yet a bump in their marriage occurs, he's all running away and demands for a divorce. He's just following his heart, not with his brain. He's blinded by rage, that is.
Sarah is most of the time the victim in the story. What with that jackass Enrique and her husband. It's just so sad to read from her point of view. My heart breaks for her broken heart. Even her best friend ran away without hearing the full story. I completely understand her angst.
But I am really glad that it all turned out fine and well in the end. I was so relieved but I didn't want the story to end. I want to hear more about both of them. They're such a beautiful couple.
I love reading about Marcus and Kelly too. Before Rough Water, their story, Troublemaker was my favourite book in the series. They're so loving to each other and THANK YOU SO MUCH to both of them for helping Justin get his act together and Kelly helping Sarah out by checking on her. So grateful for both of them!!
Highly highly highly recommended!!! But be warned, you WILL be heartbroken, get your heart wrenched into pieces and sad tears flowing down your face most of the time you're reading this book.
This book is so devastating, moving and yet so intricately beautiful. There were definitely times when I have shed a few sad tears for aches and losses of the two main characters - Justin and Sarah. I have to say that I have heard countless people say that marriage life is hard. That the both of you have to compromise for one another, talk to each other about anything, really and be honest. That is the most important of all because without honesty, then your relationship/marriage is built up by lies.
Justin is a hard headed man - so frustratingly stubborn. Seriously man, get your mind together! He seems like the most perfect husband you can find. So loving and compassionate yet a bump in their marriage occurs, he's all running away and demands for a divorce. He's just following his heart, not with his brain. He's blinded by rage, that is.
Sarah is most of the time the victim in the story. What with that jackass Enrique and her husband. It's just so sad to read from her point of view. My heart breaks for her broken heart. Even her best friend ran away without hearing the full story. I completely understand her angst.
But I am really glad that it all turned out fine and well in the end. I was so relieved but I didn't want the story to end. I want to hear more about both of them. They're such a beautiful couple.
I love reading about Marcus and Kelly too. Before Rough Water, their story, Troublemaker was my favourite book in the series. They're so loving to each other and THANK YOU SO MUCH to both of them for helping Justin get his act together and Kelly helping Sarah out by checking on her. So grateful for both of them!!
Highly highly highly recommended!!! But be warned, you WILL be heartbroken, get your heart wrenched into pieces and sad tears flowing down your face most of the time you're reading this book.
May 26, 2016
Hold Fast Or Jump Ship? . . .
Honestly this was the first Songbird novel I was hesitant to read and had seriously thought about skipping. The relationship struggles in this book are real on sooo many levels that your heart breaks for the characters and yourself. This book will touch you dearly if you've ever experienced a loss of a loved one or have been hurt in a relationship to the point it could tear you apart.
Recently married, Justin and Sarah Doyle, are nothing but the epitome of newlyweds and living in wedded bliss. But tragedy strikes their happiness and the loss threatens to consume everything. Justin buries himself in his work trying to hide from the guilt of not fulfilling a promise he made. All the while Sarah seeks comfort in praise at work since home is no longer a place of joy. But when something happens that could permanently separate the two, the question is will they divorce or pull through the rough times together?
Overall, oh so emotional but worthwhile read. I cried and I'm not ashamed because it was therapeutic. Sarah and Justin face the toughest of circumstances that none should face but too often do. Justin is definitely a sweetheart that lost his way, but when he mans up and remembers his true promises, Oh I loved it! And as for Sarah, I'd love to say I judge her, but honestly she could be anyone caught up in a similar situation making her the most relatable. This couple definitely proves strong despite the circumstances they endure, but I'm so happy to see favorites from previous novels come to help them out. Can't wait for more from the Songbird novels and hopefully more of Sarah and Justin later on.
**I received a free copy in return for an honest review**
------Read more of my reviews at: http://heyitwasfree.blogspot.com/------
Honestly this was the first Songbird novel I was hesitant to read and had seriously thought about skipping. The relationship struggles in this book are real on sooo many levels that your heart breaks for the characters and yourself. This book will touch you dearly if you've ever experienced a loss of a loved one or have been hurt in a relationship to the point it could tear you apart.
Recently married, Justin and Sarah Doyle, are nothing but the epitome of newlyweds and living in wedded bliss. But tragedy strikes their happiness and the loss threatens to consume everything. Justin buries himself in his work trying to hide from the guilt of not fulfilling a promise he made. All the while Sarah seeks comfort in praise at work since home is no longer a place of joy. But when something happens that could permanently separate the two, the question is will they divorce or pull through the rough times together?
Overall, oh so emotional but worthwhile read. I cried and I'm not ashamed because it was therapeutic. Sarah and Justin face the toughest of circumstances that none should face but too often do. Justin is definitely a sweetheart that lost his way, but when he mans up and remembers his true promises, Oh I loved it! And as for Sarah, I'd love to say I judge her, but honestly she could be anyone caught up in a similar situation making her the most relatable. This couple definitely proves strong despite the circumstances they endure, but I'm so happy to see favorites from previous novels come to help them out. Can't wait for more from the Songbird novels and hopefully more of Sarah and Justin later on.
**I received a free copy in return for an honest review**
------Read more of my reviews at: http://heyitwasfree.blogspot.com/------
May 12, 2016
I have NEVER EVER been touched sooo deeply by a book before.
Going in I knew „Rough water“ was about Justin and Sarah having some marriagle problems because of the blurb and the snippets we got with Justin in the last Songbirdnovel.
This is not my first Melissa Pearl book and I was prepared that she would hit me with all the emotions again (because she always does and I LOVE that about her and her books ♥ )but I was not prepared to feel this heartbroken so early in the book.
My heart was shattered in a million pieces...
Justins guilt was so suffocating and heartbreaking – there were a few times I needed to put my kindle down a few minutes to remind myself that it's „just a book“... but that's the thing with Melissa Pearl books: she makes you love her characters so much, they don't feel fictional anymore and so their hurt and joy feels so real ♥
No one could have prepared me for the aching sadness and guilt so mind-numbing it threatened to swallow me whole.
In that moment, I felt like I couldn't be anything to anybody.
Sarah and Justin share this special love and seeing them so lost was hurtful like nothing I've read before. You just want them to have their HEA, they deserve it so much.
Their journey is painful but so worth every tear.
Melissa Pearl has once again shown me, why I love this series so much. She really has a special gift. I love the FEELS and how real her characters are to me and that what makes „Rough water“ a fav book 2016 ♥
ARC provided in exchange for an honest review
Going in I knew „Rough water“ was about Justin and Sarah having some marriagle problems because of the blurb and the snippets we got with Justin in the last Songbirdnovel.
This is not my first Melissa Pearl book and I was prepared that she would hit me with all the emotions again (because she always does and I LOVE that about her and her books ♥ )but I was not prepared to feel this heartbroken so early in the book.
My heart was shattered in a million pieces...
Justins guilt was so suffocating and heartbreaking – there were a few times I needed to put my kindle down a few minutes to remind myself that it's „just a book“... but that's the thing with Melissa Pearl books: she makes you love her characters so much, they don't feel fictional anymore and so their hurt and joy feels so real ♥
No one could have prepared me for the aching sadness and guilt so mind-numbing it threatened to swallow me whole.
In that moment, I felt like I couldn't be anything to anybody.
Sarah and Justin share this special love and seeing them so lost was hurtful like nothing I've read before. You just want them to have their HEA, they deserve it so much.
Their journey is painful but so worth every tear.
Melissa Pearl has once again shown me, why I love this series so much. She really has a special gift. I love the FEELS and how real her characters are to me and that what makes „Rough water“ a fav book 2016 ♥
ARC provided in exchange for an honest review
May 22, 2016
Actual Rating: 4.5 Stars!!
Wow! Just wow! I was a little late to The Songbird Series, but let me tell you, I am so glad I took a chance on this series. With each book that I pick up, it just keeps getting better and better. And Rough Water is no exception.
Rough Water is perfectly named and is the best way to describe Sarah and Justin’s journey. Rough Water is one of those stories that will just tug at your heart. From the minute you pick up Justin and Sarah’s story, you are lost. You become so engrossed in their story, that you won’t be able to put it down. Your heart will ache for everything that Justin and Sarah experience. Their story will take you on such a roller-coaster ride of emotions. It will have you hoping and praying that this won’t be the end. That some how, some way, these two will be able to move past the tragedy and find their way back to one another.
Rough Water took me on such an amazing journey. It made me laugh. It made me cry. This story broke my heart and made me fall in love all at the same time. But, most of all this story gave me hope. Hope that when people really, truly love each other, they can get past and overcome anything. This story reminded me not to ever give up, even when it feels like giving up is your only option. There is always hope. Melissa Pearl has blown me away with the beauty and intensity of Sarah and Justin’s story. Their story is one that I won’t be forgetting anytime soon….
*I was provided an ARC copy of this book, in exchange for an honest review*
Wow! Just wow! I was a little late to The Songbird Series, but let me tell you, I am so glad I took a chance on this series. With each book that I pick up, it just keeps getting better and better. And Rough Water is no exception.
Rough Water is perfectly named and is the best way to describe Sarah and Justin’s journey. Rough Water is one of those stories that will just tug at your heart. From the minute you pick up Justin and Sarah’s story, you are lost. You become so engrossed in their story, that you won’t be able to put it down. Your heart will ache for everything that Justin and Sarah experience. Their story will take you on such a roller-coaster ride of emotions. It will have you hoping and praying that this won’t be the end. That some how, some way, these two will be able to move past the tragedy and find their way back to one another.
Rough Water took me on such an amazing journey. It made me laugh. It made me cry. This story broke my heart and made me fall in love all at the same time. But, most of all this story gave me hope. Hope that when people really, truly love each other, they can get past and overcome anything. This story reminded me not to ever give up, even when it feels like giving up is your only option. There is always hope. Melissa Pearl has blown me away with the beauty and intensity of Sarah and Justin’s story. Their story is one that I won’t be forgetting anytime soon….
*I was provided an ARC copy of this book, in exchange for an honest review*
June 8, 2023
We have briefly met Justin during Marcus and Kelly's book. We know he's married to Sarah and 'might' be having difficulties, but that's about it. When the book starts, Justin and Sarah are just about to get married. Time flows fairly quickly at the start of the book as you get up-to-date with what is going on for them. Before you know it, you are in the main part of the story and all the emotions that go along with it.
Sarah and Justin both lose themselves and have to try and find their way back, but whether that is together or separately is yet to be seen. Outside circumstances and internal feelings and emotions stand in their way, together with the normal 'pressure' from family. Being young, married and having to live up to expectations is always a hard thing, especially when you are drowning in sorrow.
A wonderful story told with feeling and sensitivity, and a great addition to the Songbird novel. I really hope that Jane finds her own happiness soon. Definitely recommended.
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and my comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
May 25, 2016
Sarah and Justin both lose themselves and have to try and find their way back, but whether that is together or separately is yet to be seen. Outside circumstances and internal feelings and emotions stand in their way, together with the normal 'pressure' from family. Being young, married and having to live up to expectations is always a hard thing, especially when you are drowning in sorrow.
A wonderful story told with feeling and sensitivity, and a great addition to the Songbird novel. I really hope that Jane finds her own happiness soon. Definitely recommended.
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and my comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
May 25, 2016
May 25, 2016
I enjoyed the book. The start was rough, I didn't connect to the main characters but as the story progressed I did. It rarely happens. For me to enjoy a book I need to connect with the characters. In beginning I thought I would not enjoy but I liked them as the I moved further getting to know the characters.
I liked the plot, it induced conflicting emotions. It was emotional journey with the main characters. Justin I actually liked him from beginning but took time to like Sarah. There is nothing wrong with her just took time to get connected with her.
Lol, I seem to have problem liking female protagonists in the series (I've only read two books; the previous one Troublemaker and this one). It took till the end of the book to like Kelly and this half. I'm weird.
It was amazing to see Marcus and Kelly make appearances. Especially Marcus, he is my fav character. He is adorable. Definitely read his story from Troublemaker.
All the books are standalone. I've not read the first five books in the series but I'd definitely would be reading them. Got an arc in exchange of an honest review.
I liked the plot, it induced conflicting emotions. It was emotional journey with the main characters. Justin I actually liked him from beginning but took time to like Sarah. There is nothing wrong with her just took time to get connected with her.
Lol, I seem to have problem liking female protagonists in the series (I've only read two books; the previous one Troublemaker and this one). It took till the end of the book to like Kelly and this half. I'm weird.
It was amazing to see Marcus and Kelly make appearances. Especially Marcus, he is my fav character. He is adorable. Definitely read his story from Troublemaker.
All the books are standalone. I've not read the first five books in the series but I'd definitely would be reading them. Got an arc in exchange of an honest review.
May 5, 2016
~~I received this in exchange for my honest opinion~~
I don't know where to begin this review. Let me start it off by saying I believe that this is the best book in this entire series that Melissa has written. I would say thus far, but I don't know how she is going to top this book. Not only will this book make you grab for those tissues on multiple occasions, it will make you laugh, and be happy. It will leave a smile on your face at the end of this book.
Melissa writes along with the music. She finds a song, then she spin a story around that song. She finds another song, then continues the story. She is a true storyteller. She makes you believe in true love. She hopes for the best, and she lets the characters write what they need to be doing and where they need to go. I can't wait until I read more of her work. She never leaves me disappointed at all.
I don't know where to begin this review. Let me start it off by saying I believe that this is the best book in this entire series that Melissa has written. I would say thus far, but I don't know how she is going to top this book. Not only will this book make you grab for those tissues on multiple occasions, it will make you laugh, and be happy. It will leave a smile on your face at the end of this book.
Melissa writes along with the music. She finds a song, then she spin a story around that song. She finds another song, then continues the story. She is a true storyteller. She makes you believe in true love. She hopes for the best, and she lets the characters write what they need to be doing and where they need to go. I can't wait until I read more of her work. She never leaves me disappointed at all.
May 29, 2016
OH MY GOSH ..... this book this book PEOPLE was just wow I love how I felt while reading this book when you fell the emotions that the characters are going threw you just know your going stalk this author I love melissa writing this book is my favorite so fair it was tough because I love all her books they just keep getting better and better there will be tears and heartache so be prepared cause I wasnt I cried like a little baby but loved ever second of it there was alot of screaming on the inside when they say book hangover ya write here there also happy times and smoking hot times witch i loved btw I cant wait to see the next book melissa comes up cause thats going to be pre odered and one clicked
June 11, 2016
I'm torn on what to feel about this book. The truth is, this is the type of story conflict that I avoid. However, it also felt like it was not really the exact thing that I avoid. I guess because even though it appears that Sarah is at fault, I didn't feel like she's really at fault about it. I didn't even think that I would sympathize with her given that her situation is what my kind of a no-go conflict. I commend the author for writing it so well that even if it's what I usually read, I find that I can't stop reading it either.
Other than that, the story was well written and emotionally gripping. I like how the story flowed and how the characters patched up things in the end. This is definitely a new experience of a Melissa Pearl novel for me.
Other than that, the story was well written and emotionally gripping. I like how the story flowed and how the characters patched up things in the end. This is definitely a new experience of a Melissa Pearl novel for me.
May 10, 2016
I felt so many freaking emotions while reading this book. If you are looking for your HEA, you'll have to suffer through some heartbreaks which is exactly what I did when it came down to this book. I loved every single moment of this and I love a book that knows how to make me feel.
The characters have an amazing connection with each other and although I do not know what books they came from from the series, I was glad to meet the MCs of this book. My heart strings were tugged on by Melissa Pearl and I broke down while I read this. So buck up, grab some tissues, and get ready for a long night because you won't want to put this book down.
The characters have an amazing connection with each other and although I do not know what books they came from from the series, I was glad to meet the MCs of this book. My heart strings were tugged on by Melissa Pearl and I broke down while I read this. So buck up, grab some tissues, and get ready for a long night because you won't want to put this book down.
May 22, 2016
I was given this arc by the author for an honest review. I give this a rating of 4/5 stars. First, let me start off by saying that the more I read from this author, the more she is becoming a favorite. Rough Water was a great read that I couldn't put down. Sarah and Justin's story had love, loss, heartbreak, angst, and forgiveness! Their story will definitely tug at your heartstrings, and maybe even make you want to throw your book across the room cause of the choices the characters make. You will be taken on a roller coaster of emotions. This is a couple that loses their way, but finds their way back to each other!
May 19, 2016
I received a copy from the Author in return for an honest review.
Again, I loved Melissa Pearl's story!
Sarah and Justin has everything to be the happiest couple in the world, but when a tragedy happens, things change completely for them, Unable to communicate, they end up moving away from each other and one more bad thing happens between them, which makes them have to face their fears and insecurities so they can be happy again.
I loved the characters and what they have to overcome so they can take control of their lives again.
Beautiful story!
Again, I loved Melissa Pearl's story!
Sarah and Justin has everything to be the happiest couple in the world, but when a tragedy happens, things change completely for them, Unable to communicate, they end up moving away from each other and one more bad thing happens between them, which makes them have to face their fears and insecurities so they can be happy again.
I loved the characters and what they have to overcome so they can take control of their lives again.
Beautiful story!
May 23, 2016
Wow, what a story that took my emotions on quite a ride. I hadn't read this series but I knew of the author's work with other books.
Sarah and Justin are newlyweds who have to deal with a tragedy that will make or break them as a couple. They pretty much shut down their emotions dealing with guilt and grief and this lack of communication could break their marriage apart.
I couldn't put this book down, I wanted to climb in there and slap them silly. Such a tug on the heartstrings and at times so frustrating.
Great story line, wonderful characters...this story is a winner, I loved it.
Sarah and Justin are newlyweds who have to deal with a tragedy that will make or break them as a couple. They pretty much shut down their emotions dealing with guilt and grief and this lack of communication could break their marriage apart.
I couldn't put this book down, I wanted to climb in there and slap them silly. Such a tug on the heartstrings and at times so frustrating.
Great story line, wonderful characters...this story is a winner, I loved it.
May 26, 2016
It was heartbreaking to watch Sarah and Justin's picture perfect love story start to crumble and fall apart because of a tragedy that set off a seemingly unstoppable chain of events. They face a long, emotional journey as they try to heal their marriage despite the odds against them.
I really enjoy the Songbird series and I am looking forward to reading Jane's story.
**I received a copy in exchange for an honest review.**
I really enjoy the Songbird series and I am looking forward to reading Jane's story.
**I received a copy in exchange for an honest review.**
May 23, 2016
Not quite so sure what to think of this novel. Both hero and heroine made a lot of mistakes. In the end we get our happy ending. I just felt a complete disconnect between the characters and my emotions, they were hard to get to know and actually like. However, all that could be because this novel deals with cheating. He cheated her by leaving her alone and she cheated on him with another man. Lots of drama.
May 26, 2016
I quite liked this book. The characters felt very realistic to me. Their actions were believable and the pacing of the story was smooth. Rough Water is kind of sad but also so very beautiful. There are moments in the story where I can really see the love between characters. Wether it be the love between friends, family or lovers, it truly sparkled.
This is a beautiful story about love and heartbreak.
This is a beautiful story about love and heartbreak.
May 4, 2016
I love this book. I love Justin and Saras story. It kept me on a emotional roller coaster but it's so well worth it
I received a copy of the book for my honest review
I received a copy of the book for my honest review
May 11, 2016
Today I am reviewing my ARC of Rough Water by @melissapearlauthor
And Melissa, as you know, You broke my heart.
And Melissa, as you know, You broke my heart.
July 3, 2017
wow what a read, this story the 7th in the Songbird series is seriously full of feels, a real rollercoaster ride of emotion.
The books starts of happy with the beautiful wedding of Sarah and Justin only to be followed by the gut retching death of Justin best friend and brother Blake. It cause Justin to retreat into a shell putting all his efforts in to a his job as layer while studying a law degree neither of which he loves or is passionate about. Mean while Sarah is also focused on her job as a designer. When Sarah makes a drunken mistake can these two former lovebirds find their way back to each other or is too late.
The books starts of happy with the beautiful wedding of Sarah and Justin only to be followed by the gut retching death of Justin best friend and brother Blake. It cause Justin to retreat into a shell putting all his efforts in to a his job as layer while studying a law degree neither of which he loves or is passionate about. Mean while Sarah is also focused on her job as a designer. When Sarah makes a drunken mistake can these two former lovebirds find their way back to each other or is too late.
August 7, 2017
A wonderful novel in the Songbirds series. Excellent writing and a poignant love story, as per usual from Melissa Pearl. Especially terrific is the great soundtrack and Spotify playlist you can listen to whilst reading - a great touch and so apt for this series of books. Whilst each stands alone, they are best read in order so that you can get the lovely story arc for all the characters (main characters in one book will be minor characters in the rest - everyone gets their own HEA in this series!)
br-on-the-rocks
February 23, 2022Note to self, major spoiler
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The heroine is the cheater in the marriage. Can’t remember the last time I read that.
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The heroine is the cheater in the marriage. Can’t remember the last time I read that.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 5, 2017
7.) Rough Water (Justin and Sarah):
"Sometimes love is more than a feeling...it's a choice." - Cover
"This was only this beautiful woman. She was exquisite. A smile that could guide ships into a harbor...eyes that could stand in for the stars."
"Then make a choose, man. Choose right here, right now, to forgive her. Choose to be the man she deserves. Choose to love her for the rest of your life. You may not do it perfectly, but love doesn't have to be perfect. It just has to be real."
"When I first asked you to marry me, I thought our life was going to be perfect. Everything fell into place so easily-the wedding, the house, the jobs. But then we got hit by this massive tsunami that neither of us saw coming. We were so unprepared. All the dreams we'd had, everything we thought we'd become got pushed aside as we tried to survive. I didn't let you in. I drove you away from me. But as much as I've hated it, I wouldn't take any of it back. We've still got a long way to go, Sparks, but if this has taught me anything, it's that life isn't perfect. We're still going to have some rough times, but in the midst of all that, I know for certain that I want you by my side. No matter what happens, I want to help you make your dreams come true."
"Sometimes love is more than a feeling...it's a choice." - Cover
"This was only this beautiful woman. She was exquisite. A smile that could guide ships into a harbor...eyes that could stand in for the stars."
"Then make a choose, man. Choose right here, right now, to forgive her. Choose to be the man she deserves. Choose to love her for the rest of your life. You may not do it perfectly, but love doesn't have to be perfect. It just has to be real."
"When I first asked you to marry me, I thought our life was going to be perfect. Everything fell into place so easily-the wedding, the house, the jobs. But then we got hit by this massive tsunami that neither of us saw coming. We were so unprepared. All the dreams we'd had, everything we thought we'd become got pushed aside as we tried to survive. I didn't let you in. I drove you away from me. But as much as I've hated it, I wouldn't take any of it back. We've still got a long way to go, Sparks, but if this has taught me anything, it's that life isn't perfect. We're still going to have some rough times, but in the midst of all that, I know for certain that I want you by my side. No matter what happens, I want to help you make your dreams come true."
July 15, 2016
*POSSIBLE SPOILERS*
As usual for one of Melissa Pearl's novels, I loved it. I loved the characters, I loved the setting and the lessons we could learn from the story, I loved the end... And I cried. A lot. She'd promised we would cry more than with Angel Eyes, and it's true.
I must say, the little I'd seen of Justin in Troublemaker had made me like him, but never would I have imagined what he'd gone and was still going through, which, I guess, is exactly what he (and and the author) was going for. Mission accomplished!
At the beginning, I could tell something very very bad would happen (thank you, intuition ^^), but I never would have thought he'd react like this. He made mistakes I never would have made and, sometimes, I just wanted to get into the book and shake some sense into him. I was so mad at him.
As for Sarah, I liked her. When she'd been mentioned in Troublemaker, I didn't have a good opinion of her, to be honest. But she's actually a decent woman! Not only decent, but fine, even! She's sweet, loving... And completely at a loss. But, thankfully all ended well for them.
Lastly, I loved seeing more of Marcus (my all-time favorite boyfriend, so far) and Kelly. We get to see more of their happiness and that is awesome! And Marcus is not only a great book boyfriend, he's also a great friend to Justin. I loved that Kelly worked with him on that one. She's even cooler than I thought.
So, overall, I recommend this book to anyone who loves Romance, and especially to any Songbird lover ;-)
As usual for one of Melissa Pearl's novels, I loved it. I loved the characters, I loved the setting and the lessons we could learn from the story, I loved the end... And I cried. A lot. She'd promised we would cry more than with Angel Eyes, and it's true.
I must say, the little I'd seen of Justin in Troublemaker had made me like him, but never would I have imagined what he'd gone and was still going through, which, I guess, is exactly what he (and and the author) was going for. Mission accomplished!
At the beginning, I could tell something very very bad would happen (thank you, intuition ^^), but I never would have thought he'd react like this. He made mistakes I never would have made and, sometimes, I just wanted to get into the book and shake some sense into him. I was so mad at him.
As for Sarah, I liked her. When she'd been mentioned in Troublemaker, I didn't have a good opinion of her, to be honest. But she's actually a decent woman! Not only decent, but fine, even! She's sweet, loving... And completely at a loss. But, thankfully all ended well for them.
Lastly, I loved seeing more of Marcus (my all-time favorite boyfriend, so far) and Kelly. We get to see more of their happiness and that is awesome! And Marcus is not only a great book boyfriend, he's also a great friend to Justin. I loved that Kelly worked with him on that one. She's even cooler than I thought.
So, overall, I recommend this book to anyone who loves Romance, and especially to any Songbird lover ;-)
June 2, 2016
I really enjoyed this book. The story was very gripping and the characters easy to love. Due to school work I didn't have the time to read as much as I would've liked so therefore it took me ages to get through it. I don't really know why I didn't feel like this book deserved more than 3 stars because I really did like it, but well, I don't know.
December 30, 2016
Great story! also a tear jerker, so if you're an easy crier I would not recommend.
April 13, 2017
This is the seventh book in the Songbird Series. This book just made my heart hurt and I was reading some of it through tears. It is so emotional and the songs work so well for this one. This book is a lot of lack of communication. One bad turn in their lives and it all just goes to hell and this sends Justin running. He tells his new wife Sarah that he wants a divorce. It made me feel for her and just breaks my heart. I know the ending and it is time you do too.
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