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Matthews Brothers #2
Finding Dawn
Moving to California is the best decision I’ve ever made. I no longer work for my ex-fiancé’s father. I’m hundreds of miles away from my ex-fiancé. And I met a woman who completely intrigues me. Dawn. No last name.
Yeah…moving to California was a great idea.
Only I can’t seem to get Dawn out of my head. The way we met. The way she acts. The night we had together. Now she’s just gone.
She bailed on me. But I don’t give up so easily. I’ll find her.
I just wasn’t expecting what I’d find…or who…
**Due to mature language and strong sexual content this book is intended for mature audiences only.**
Yeah…moving to California was a great idea.
Only I can’t seem to get Dawn out of my head. The way we met. The way she acts. The night we had together. Now she’s just gone.
She bailed on me. But I don’t give up so easily. I’ll find her.
I just wasn’t expecting what I’d find…or who…
**Due to mature language and strong sexual content this book is intended for mature audiences only.**
- GenresContemporary
160 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 14, 2016
8 people are currently reading
73 people want to read
About the author
J.L. Leslie
60 books689 followersI am a happily married mother of three (two boys and one girl). I live in a very small town in Alabama. Never lived anywhere else. I’ve been writing since my early twenties, but I couldn’t seem to finish a book. I’ve started self-publishing with the encouragement from my mom. Without her encouragement, I don’t think I would’ve done it. She always supported me and writing is something I’ve always enjoyed doing. As long as I enjoy it, I’ll continue to do it. I’ve learned already that I can’t please everyone. Not all reviews will be good, not all reviews will be bad. I’m the one that has to be happy with my work.
I get my inspiration from life experiences, movies, television, other authors, and music. Music is definitely a big influence on my writing. I can hear a song and it can inspire an entire book for me. I listen to it while I’m driving or before I start writing and it keeps me inspired. I like to put music in my books, even if it’s just one song the characters listen to or hear at some point. Sometimes music has gotten me through the really tough times in my life and that’s why it inspires me.
I like to write fast-paced, steamy romance reads. I like for my males to be alpha-males and my heroines to be strong, but both need to have one weakness- each other. I am an avid reader. I absolutely love romance books!
I get my inspiration from life experiences, movies, television, other authors, and music. Music is definitely a big influence on my writing. I can hear a song and it can inspire an entire book for me. I listen to it while I’m driving or before I start writing and it keeps me inspired. I like to put music in my books, even if it’s just one song the characters listen to or hear at some point. Sometimes music has gotten me through the really tough times in my life and that’s why it inspires me.
I like to write fast-paced, steamy romance reads. I like for my males to be alpha-males and my heroines to be strong, but both need to have one weakness- each other. I am an avid reader. I absolutely love romance books!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
June 20, 2016
This is Drew’s story we met him in Let the Waves Come In he is Aubrey’s BFF and Declan’s little brother.
He has moved back to California starting a new life after he dumped his controlling ex fiancée Kammie. While out one night he accidentally spills his slushy over a woman, he cannot stop thinking about her and tracks her down they talk and she introducers herself as Dawn.
When Vella meets Drew and he does not recognize her she is thrilled that she can be herself with him. Vella Dawn is a supermodel and designer she can be a bossy bitch at times but with Drew she is a different person.
When Drew finds out who she is things are tricky for a while but they work it out and soon begin a relationship having lots of hot sex and normal dates, everything is going great for Vella until her mother turns up.
What can I say about her mother Valencia aka The Bitch that won’t get my review reported well she is a F*UCKING SICK TWISTED BITCH for the way she has treated Vella throughout her life and the things she made her do and still does. She isn’t her mother she is her pimp, I was cringing reading one scene between Vella, the bitch and Marcus (need to scrub my brain). When the bitch gets her comeuppance I shouted YES (lucky I was on my own).
I HATE HER
This was steamy, emotional and the suspense of what would Kammie do next had me gripped. The story is told in dual POV.
A copy generously received from author as a gift and I loved getting to know Drew and Vella :-)
He has moved back to California starting a new life after he dumped his controlling ex fiancée Kammie. While out one night he accidentally spills his slushy over a woman, he cannot stop thinking about her and tracks her down they talk and she introducers herself as Dawn.
When Vella meets Drew and he does not recognize her she is thrilled that she can be herself with him. Vella Dawn is a supermodel and designer she can be a bossy bitch at times but with Drew she is a different person.
When Drew finds out who she is things are tricky for a while but they work it out and soon begin a relationship having lots of hot sex and normal dates, everything is going great for Vella until her mother turns up.
What can I say about her mother Valencia aka The Bitch that won’t get my review reported well she is a F*UCKING SICK TWISTED BITCH for the way she has treated Vella throughout her life and the things she made her do and still does. She isn’t her mother she is her pimp, I was cringing reading one scene between Vella, the bitch and Marcus (need to scrub my brain). When the bitch gets her comeuppance I shouted YES (lucky I was on my own).
I HATE HER
This was steamy, emotional and the suspense of what would Kammie do next had me gripped. The story is told in dual POV.
A copy generously received from author as a gift and I loved getting to know Drew and Vella :-)
June 18, 2016
I received this book in exchange for an honest review.
'Finding Dawn' by J.L. Leslie is the story of Drew and Dawn. If you have read 'Let The Waves Come In' by Ms. Leslie you will remember Drew. Drew was the brother of Declan and best friends with Aubrey who were the main characters in that story. This is a standalone book but I enjoyed the previous book enough that I would say you should read that too just for the enjoyment of it.
Drew has just broken up with his boss's daughter and now along with not getting married...Drew is out of a job. Drew decided to move to California to be closer to his best friend and his brother. One day shortly after moving in to his apartment he meets 'Dawn'. Dawn it a highly top model but also has her own business....but she also has a very tough/hard mother. Dawn acts a certain way because of how her mother treats her but deep down she is a nice person.
I truly enjoyed this book! The story takes you in quickly and it turns into a book you don't want to put down.
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'Finding Dawn' by J.L. Leslie is the story of Drew and Dawn. If you have read 'Let The Waves Come In' by Ms. Leslie you will remember Drew. Drew was the brother of Declan and best friends with Aubrey who were the main characters in that story. This is a standalone book but I enjoyed the previous book enough that I would say you should read that too just for the enjoyment of it.
Drew has just broken up with his boss's daughter and now along with not getting married...Drew is out of a job. Drew decided to move to California to be closer to his best friend and his brother. One day shortly after moving in to his apartment he meets 'Dawn'. Dawn it a highly top model but also has her own business....but she also has a very tough/hard mother. Dawn acts a certain way because of how her mother treats her but deep down she is a nice person.
I truly enjoyed this book! The story takes you in quickly and it turns into a book you don't want to put down.
Please follow more reviews at the below sites:
https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/1... http://sissymaereads.blogspot.com/
https://www.facebook.com/sally.mae.39...
http://booklikes.com/
https://romancebookreviewforyou.wordp...
https://www.facebook.com/groups/17091...
https://twitter.com/soapsrus68
https://www.pinterest.com/u2soapsrus/
June 8, 2018
I liked Drew in the previous book and was keen to read his story even though book 1 was just "okay" for me. I'm glad I did because, I enjoyed this book much more. I think the author did a good job of making Vella less of a raging bitch and more human, more vulnerable and much more likable. I really liked Drew and Vella together.
On a side note: considering some of the subject matter in this book, I was at first surprised to see it published pre Weinstein & #metoo. And then I was not so surprised at all, because God knows how sickeningly common Marcus' behavior is.
On a side note: considering some of the subject matter in this book, I was at first surprised to see it published pre Weinstein & #metoo. And then I was not so surprised at all, because God knows how sickeningly common Marcus' behavior is.
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June 20, 2017
Never say never. (Uh huh) Nice guys finish last. (Only if you're lucky)
Drew and Dawn have an instant connection. An intense draw. Yet they are worlds apart. The chemistry between them comes off the pages.
I didn't think I would like Vella but I was wrong. I appreciate L J Leslie talking about a hard subject. She pulled me into the story. And Drew couldn't be more perfect!
A must read!!
Drew and Dawn have an instant connection. An intense draw. Yet they are worlds apart. The chemistry between them comes off the pages.
I didn't think I would like Vella but I was wrong. I appreciate L J Leslie talking about a hard subject. She pulled me into the story. And Drew couldn't be more perfect!
A must read!!
June 15, 2017
After reading Declan and Aubrey's book, I was so excited to read Drew and Vella's book. This book had me on the edge the whole time. I felt like I was on an emotional rollercoaster, in a good way. I loved Drew and Vella's story and the sexy times were off the chart. They both had troubled pasts but together they healed each other. This is a five plus star read, get your copy today.
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January 12, 2018
*I received an ARC of this book free from author in exchange for an honest review*
Drew has moved back to California after dumping his controlling psych ex to be close to his brother and best friend. While out walking one night he accidentally spills his slushy all over a stunning woman. Not wanting to be rude he offers her a shirt wear home. Drew cannot stop thinking about her and he knows he needs to find her again.
Vella Dawn was thrilled Drew did not know who she was. So instead of blowing her cover she just introduced herself as Dawn. But Vella Dawn is actually a world known model who his best friend just happens to work for.
Drew and Dawn have an instant connection with each other. She likes the normalcy that his life brings to hers. When he finds out who she truly is he knows there is more to her besides her bitchy bossy behavior.
There is so much that happens in this book. We are introduced to Vella’s mother. (The reason that she is the way she is) along with some of Vella’s past. This is a page turner so I would highly suggest going ahead and reading it.
We met Drew in the author’s first book in this series “Let the Waves Come In”. You can read this one as a standalone but really you know you want the full story!
Drew has moved back to California after dumping his controlling psych ex to be close to his brother and best friend. While out walking one night he accidentally spills his slushy all over a stunning woman. Not wanting to be rude he offers her a shirt wear home. Drew cannot stop thinking about her and he knows he needs to find her again.
Vella Dawn was thrilled Drew did not know who she was. So instead of blowing her cover she just introduced herself as Dawn. But Vella Dawn is actually a world known model who his best friend just happens to work for.
Drew and Dawn have an instant connection with each other. She likes the normalcy that his life brings to hers. When he finds out who she truly is he knows there is more to her besides her bitchy bossy behavior.
There is so much that happens in this book. We are introduced to Vella’s mother. (The reason that she is the way she is) along with some of Vella’s past. This is a page turner so I would highly suggest going ahead and reading it.
We met Drew in the author’s first book in this series “Let the Waves Come In”. You can read this one as a standalone but really you know you want the full story!
March 13, 2017
Another fantastic book that touches a range of issues. I loved how everyone saw Vella as a b**ch but underneath there was a lovely women that needed to learn to love herself and find herself again and realise that she was good enough. Drew has always been the nice guy in the relationship and realises that Vella needs some tough loving to finally get through to her but with his ex fiancé in the mix and Vella's mother who is a vile woman it seemed that they were destine for heartache unless they worked through the issues together.
Reviewed for Amo and Sarah corner gifted for an honest review
Reviewed for Amo and Sarah corner gifted for an honest review
March 1, 2017
I loved this book . I absolutely love it when your first impressions of someone are completely wrong and they end up being your favourite.
This book touches up on some pretty bad subjects but it just makes you connect so much more with characters this is part of a series but can also be read as a standalone
Reviewed by Jule on behalf of Amo & Sarah's Book Corner
This book touches up on some pretty bad subjects but it just makes you connect so much more with characters this is part of a series but can also be read as a standalone
Reviewed by Jule on behalf of Amo & Sarah's Book Corner
July 11, 2017
This is a fantastic read. Vella and Drew are just amazing together. You are given the ups and downs of their relationship and are able to grow with them. There is a lot going on and you do get flashbacks, but they transition beautifully into what is happening in the present. Wonderful book.. I would recommend for Adults only due to some sensitive subject matter.
July 22, 2017
This book was awesome. The twists that you never see coming. The worst sides of people along with the good sides of others. You still get to check up on Declan and Aubrey. Drew and Vella are such a good match you will root for them. At the same time you want to go jigsaw on a couple of people, the whole I know your sins and you have to play the game. Do not miss this story or series.
March 19, 2017
Awesome read
Really enjoyed this book. The storyline just flowed and was fast paced. It had some angsty parts, hot sex scenes and great characters. So thanks for keeping this avid reader entertained.
Thanks Jamie Nibarger Ellis
Really enjoyed this book. The storyline just flowed and was fast paced. It had some angsty parts, hot sex scenes and great characters. So thanks for keeping this avid reader entertained.
Thanks Jamie Nibarger Ellis
June 21, 2017
A wonderfully written novel, that deals with some of the harsher sides of life. Drew and Vella's story is filled with a bit of crazy, suspense, love, passion, laughter, romance, and a HEA! I received an ARC and am voluntarily reviewing the story. Loved it.
July 2, 2019
A fabulous read that touches on a range of issues. It's like riding on an emotional roller coaster that gives you all the feels. Brilliantly written, fast paced, suspenseful, angsty, sexy, and heatbreaking. Drew and Vella's story is full of drama, interesting characters, and surprising plot twists.
August 8, 2016
3.75 out of 5
May 19, 2018
oh my god loved loved loved💗💗💗🔥🔥🔥 i need more
September 4, 2019
I received a free copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review :) thank you again for sending me this lovely story :) after I reviewed her "Let the waves come in" (about Aubrey, his best friend and Declan his older brother) and realized that there is actually a book about my favourite secondary character from there, I knew I needed to read it soon :) but don't worry, both of these books work as a standalones as well, so you don't need one to read the other :) but you do get a bit more background about the main couple in this book if you read that previous one first :) but again, it's not necessary :) so now let me tell you a bit more about this book :) and unfortunately it won't be a very long review, mainly because a lot of things are happening in this story that I absolutely cannot tell you about :) because... so... many... spoilers :) but I will do my best to show you why I loved it :)
So let me start with our main couple :) Drew is... *sighs* ;) I loved him before but in this book he's absolutely charming... :) he moves to California after breaking up with his fiancee and very soon after that, he runs into... and I mean that literally, spilling a slushie and everything ;) into a woman, who introduces herself as Dawn :) little does he knows at the time, that she's a famous super model Vella Dawn, Aubrey's boss :) she loves the fact that he doesn't recognize her and actually acts normal around her :) and about Vella... she's my favourite type of character :) we met her before, as this perfectionist, a bit on the cold and distant side... but in this book we get to know her more... and the more I read, the more my heart was breaking for her... she seemed so lonely... I just wanted to hug her ;) and I love that about characters... when they are more complex than you thought... when behind this face that everyone see there is much more hidden... I love those kind of surprises... even though sometimes not everything you get to know is good... *sighs heavily* seriously people... I wanted to hug her so much.... and even though Drew totally charmed me, it was actually Vella who stole my heart :) I absolutely loved them together... and don't worry, the whole identity secret is revealed pretty early in the book :) I loved how Drew did his best to treat her as normally as he could, given her fame and obligations :) they were so lovely together... and I absolutely adored this new side of her we could discover when she spent more time with him... this more vulnerable and fragile side... :)
Besides our main couple we of course have a few secondary characters that I need to mention as well... :) there's definitely Aubrey and Declan :) they have their own book, so I won't go into too many details about them here :) just the basic info :) Declan is Drew's older brother... they had a bit of a difficult relationship for the last few years, but lately, thanks to Aubrey it's definitely getting better :) and about Aubrey... ;) he's Drew's best friend... and a lot of people have troubles with their friendship... quite a few of their significant others couldn't understand that what's between them is just friendship... both of them appear in this story in a few scenes, but don't worry :) if you haven't read their book, you'll still understand everything :) and I need to mention one more person... and not in a good way... Vella's mother... I hated her... the more I got to know about her... ugh... I have no words for how awful she was... and since I'm not saying anything else, it's not a spoiler ;)
I really enjoyed this book :) it was such a quick read... :) especially once I got to know our main couple a bit more, then I just needed to finish the book and see how it ends :) it's written in 2 POVs and I always love that in books :) not only that, but throughout the story we also have flashbacks to certain events in the past, showing us what happened to both Drew and Vella before... and it was those flashbacks about Vella that broke my heart the most in this entire book... I would love to say a bit more about the story, but I really feel it's best if you go into it without more details, especially the ones that might ruin quite a few surprising turns of events... and I mean that... ;) cause I've had a few of those "what the WHAT is happening?!?!?" ;) but I really enjoyed this entertaining contemporary romance with a beautiful ending, so definitely give it a try ;)
XOXO
A
So let me start with our main couple :) Drew is... *sighs* ;) I loved him before but in this book he's absolutely charming... :) he moves to California after breaking up with his fiancee and very soon after that, he runs into... and I mean that literally, spilling a slushie and everything ;) into a woman, who introduces herself as Dawn :) little does he knows at the time, that she's a famous super model Vella Dawn, Aubrey's boss :) she loves the fact that he doesn't recognize her and actually acts normal around her :) and about Vella... she's my favourite type of character :) we met her before, as this perfectionist, a bit on the cold and distant side... but in this book we get to know her more... and the more I read, the more my heart was breaking for her... she seemed so lonely... I just wanted to hug her ;) and I love that about characters... when they are more complex than you thought... when behind this face that everyone see there is much more hidden... I love those kind of surprises... even though sometimes not everything you get to know is good... *sighs heavily* seriously people... I wanted to hug her so much.... and even though Drew totally charmed me, it was actually Vella who stole my heart :) I absolutely loved them together... and don't worry, the whole identity secret is revealed pretty early in the book :) I loved how Drew did his best to treat her as normally as he could, given her fame and obligations :) they were so lovely together... and I absolutely adored this new side of her we could discover when she spent more time with him... this more vulnerable and fragile side... :)
Besides our main couple we of course have a few secondary characters that I need to mention as well... :) there's definitely Aubrey and Declan :) they have their own book, so I won't go into too many details about them here :) just the basic info :) Declan is Drew's older brother... they had a bit of a difficult relationship for the last few years, but lately, thanks to Aubrey it's definitely getting better :) and about Aubrey... ;) he's Drew's best friend... and a lot of people have troubles with their friendship... quite a few of their significant others couldn't understand that what's between them is just friendship... both of them appear in this story in a few scenes, but don't worry :) if you haven't read their book, you'll still understand everything :) and I need to mention one more person... and not in a good way... Vella's mother... I hated her... the more I got to know about her... ugh... I have no words for how awful she was... and since I'm not saying anything else, it's not a spoiler ;)
I really enjoyed this book :) it was such a quick read... :) especially once I got to know our main couple a bit more, then I just needed to finish the book and see how it ends :) it's written in 2 POVs and I always love that in books :) not only that, but throughout the story we also have flashbacks to certain events in the past, showing us what happened to both Drew and Vella before... and it was those flashbacks about Vella that broke my heart the most in this entire book... I would love to say a bit more about the story, but I really feel it's best if you go into it without more details, especially the ones that might ruin quite a few surprising turns of events... and I mean that... ;) cause I've had a few of those "what the WHAT is happening?!?!?" ;) but I really enjoyed this entertaining contemporary romance with a beautiful ending, so definitely give it a try ;)
XOXO
A
December 21, 2017
*Received a copy, in exchange for an honest review*
Finding Dawn picks up right where Let The Waves Come In ended. Drew ends his engagement with his fiancé and moves to California to be closer to his best friend Aubrey and his brother Declan.
One night he ends up running right into a women and spills his drink all over her. Sparks fly and Drew has to know who this girl is that is always on his mind.
And so he meets Dawn.
Dawn has some secrets, such as her being a supermodel and going by her real name which is Vella. Now Vella is Aubrey's boss and most of us know that she is beyond rude and arrogant.
Drew has no idea that Dawn is really Vella, and she likes that. She can be the person she always wanted to be without looking at her and think of a snobby supermodel.
These two have a rough ride, between Vella's mother and Drew's insane ex fiancé. They have to fight to keep there relationship intact. But will her secrets and the drama ruin the beautiful relationship they created?
Hearts will be broken, secrets are unfolded, Vella and Drew have to hang on for the road in front of them.
This was a spectacular love story, I had flutters in my stomach. The chemistry Vella and Drew had was undeniable! Just reading how hard Drew is falling for Vella, it was to cute!
I have a few words for Drew and they are:
Finding Dawn picks up right where Let The Waves Come In ended. Drew ends his engagement with his fiancé and moves to California to be closer to his best friend Aubrey and his brother Declan.
One night he ends up running right into a women and spills his drink all over her. Sparks fly and Drew has to know who this girl is that is always on his mind.
And so he meets Dawn.
Dawn has some secrets, such as her being a supermodel and going by her real name which is Vella. Now Vella is Aubrey's boss and most of us know that she is beyond rude and arrogant.
Drew has no idea that Dawn is really Vella, and she likes that. She can be the person she always wanted to be without looking at her and think of a snobby supermodel.
These two have a rough ride, between Vella's mother and Drew's insane ex fiancé. They have to fight to keep there relationship intact. But will her secrets and the drama ruin the beautiful relationship they created?
Hearts will be broken, secrets are unfolded, Vella and Drew have to hang on for the road in front of them.
This was a spectacular love story, I had flutters in my stomach. The chemistry Vella and Drew had was undeniable! Just reading how hard Drew is falling for Vella, it was to cute!
I have a few words for Drew and they are:
July 12, 2016
I was given a complimentary e-copy of Finding Dawn in exchange for an honest review.
Finding Dawn is a stand-alone but in my opinion, you should read Let The Waves Come In first, so that you'll recognize most of the characters in Finding Dawn.
After Drew breaks his engagement to Kammie, he decides it is time for a change and moves to California, to be closer to his brother Declan and his best friend Aubrey. He literally runs into Dawn, and is instantly attracted to her and makes an effort to track her down again so that he can get to know her better. Dawn enjoys the time they spend together because when she's with Drew, she can be herself, and not the girl that everyone else knows her as. There's the expected tension when Drew discovers the side of Dawn that she hasn't shared with him yet and there's also pieces of both Dawn's and Drew's past that come back to bite them that they're going to have to deal with, if they have any chance of making a true go of their relationship.
I had already read Declan and Aubrey's story, so I knew I was already a fan of J.L. Leslie's writing. She did not disappoint with Finding Dawn. I enjoyed getting to know Drew better than just being Declan's brother and Aubrey's best friend from back home. And I also enjoyed getting to know Dawn better and began to understand why she acted the way she did in the public eye. I was hoping that Declan and Drew would be able to make a go of it and had to keep reading to see how their story was going to pan out. There were a few surprises along the way, especially the major event that happened at just before the end of the story, but I think all in all, the story played out the way that it was supposed to!!
Finding Dawn is a stand-alone but in my opinion, you should read Let The Waves Come In first, so that you'll recognize most of the characters in Finding Dawn.
After Drew breaks his engagement to Kammie, he decides it is time for a change and moves to California, to be closer to his brother Declan and his best friend Aubrey. He literally runs into Dawn, and is instantly attracted to her and makes an effort to track her down again so that he can get to know her better. Dawn enjoys the time they spend together because when she's with Drew, she can be herself, and not the girl that everyone else knows her as. There's the expected tension when Drew discovers the side of Dawn that she hasn't shared with him yet and there's also pieces of both Dawn's and Drew's past that come back to bite them that they're going to have to deal with, if they have any chance of making a true go of their relationship.
I had already read Declan and Aubrey's story, so I knew I was already a fan of J.L. Leslie's writing. She did not disappoint with Finding Dawn. I enjoyed getting to know Drew better than just being Declan's brother and Aubrey's best friend from back home. And I also enjoyed getting to know Dawn better and began to understand why she acted the way she did in the public eye. I was hoping that Declan and Drew would be able to make a go of it and had to keep reading to see how their story was going to pan out. There were a few surprises along the way, especially the major event that happened at just before the end of the story, but I think all in all, the story played out the way that it was supposed to!!
June 19, 2016
Don't judge a book by its cover"
Drew - After calling off his engagement with Kammie, Drew moves to California. Even before the move, Drew was anti-Vella. (Vella is Audrey's pain in the ass boss.) Vella is Very demanding and selfish. One night Drew is out exploring and spills his slushy on a women. After that one night, Drew is hooked on this stranger named Dawn. After doing Audrey a favor he comes face to face with his "Dawn".... Drew can't believe it, it's the one person he did not expect.
Vella - Vella's mother has raised the bar for her so many times. Making sure Vella is on top at no matter what the cost is. Vella is never good enough for her own mother. Her mother will tell her that there's always another model waiting to take her place and that's she's gained a few pounds. Vella never had a childhood, her world was modeling. She has been through many extremes and your heart will fall for her. Drew makes Vella feel special and that she actually matters in the world besides being a model. Drew fights for Vella and makes her fight for herself.
Great love story!! I never saw the relationship between Drew and Vella, it was a great surprise. The twist and turns they have to overcome will make your heartache. I didn't like Vella in "Let the waves come in", actually couldn't stand her. Now, I love her!! What she went through on her career all because of her mother!! Such a pager turner, you won't be able to put the book down.
One word for Vella's mother, karma!!!
Drew - After calling off his engagement with Kammie, Drew moves to California. Even before the move, Drew was anti-Vella. (Vella is Audrey's pain in the ass boss.) Vella is Very demanding and selfish. One night Drew is out exploring and spills his slushy on a women. After that one night, Drew is hooked on this stranger named Dawn. After doing Audrey a favor he comes face to face with his "Dawn".... Drew can't believe it, it's the one person he did not expect.
Vella - Vella's mother has raised the bar for her so many times. Making sure Vella is on top at no matter what the cost is. Vella is never good enough for her own mother. Her mother will tell her that there's always another model waiting to take her place and that's she's gained a few pounds. Vella never had a childhood, her world was modeling. She has been through many extremes and your heart will fall for her. Drew makes Vella feel special and that she actually matters in the world besides being a model. Drew fights for Vella and makes her fight for herself.
Great love story!! I never saw the relationship between Drew and Vella, it was a great surprise. The twist and turns they have to overcome will make your heartache. I didn't like Vella in "Let the waves come in", actually couldn't stand her. Now, I love her!! What she went through on her career all because of her mother!! Such a pager turner, you won't be able to put the book down.
One word for Vella's mother, karma!!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 13, 2016
Drew's move to CA was the best decision he ever made especially to get away from his crazy butt ex-Kammie. Wow, I knew I didn't like her when we met these characters in Let the Waves Come In, but never did I expect the twist that was given in this book. Holy smoke, she was crazier than I thought.
Meeting Dawn by that awesome mishap was the best thing that happened to both of them honestly. He truly brought out the side of her when he does find out who she is that has been hidden since she was a kid. You had me there for a second cause I thought for sure once he found out who she really was he was a goner since he was hating her as a public person.
Wow, the emotions that occurred while reading this book cause all I kept thinking is what mother would be like this to their child. Yes, I am not naïve and know that there are parents out there like this, but that is just so wrong on all levels. Sad to say she got what she deserved after the crap she put her daughter though.
Loved that we got a continued look into Declan and Aubrey's relationship from the first book cause this crew was awesome. I cannot wait to read more by this author. I will say that even though this book stemmed from another book you don't have to read Let the Waves Come in to understand this book. It will give you the background to Drew's ex though and his relationship with Aubrey as well. It can be read out of order though and you will definitely want to be reading both cause these books were awesome.
Meeting Dawn by that awesome mishap was the best thing that happened to both of them honestly. He truly brought out the side of her when he does find out who she is that has been hidden since she was a kid. You had me there for a second cause I thought for sure once he found out who she really was he was a goner since he was hating her as a public person.
Wow, the emotions that occurred while reading this book cause all I kept thinking is what mother would be like this to their child. Yes, I am not naïve and know that there are parents out there like this, but that is just so wrong on all levels. Sad to say she got what she deserved after the crap she put her daughter though.
Loved that we got a continued look into Declan and Aubrey's relationship from the first book cause this crew was awesome. I cannot wait to read more by this author. I will say that even though this book stemmed from another book you don't have to read Let the Waves Come in to understand this book. It will give you the background to Drew's ex though and his relationship with Aubrey as well. It can be read out of order though and you will definitely want to be reading both cause these books were awesome.
June 24, 2016
Book: Finding Dawn
Author: J.L. Leslie
Publication Date: 6/14/2016
Reviewed by: Tammy Payne- Book Nook Nuts
My Rating: 4 Stars
REVIEW
We met Drew and Kammie in a previous book they are heading back and are at the airport when Kammie throws an ultimatum. Well Drew has had enough and all bets are off including wedding, and working for daddy dearest. Drew’s brother got over his insecurities but Kammie just could not. Drew will always be best friends with Aubrey. Now I am living in California and staying in a crap place.
Vella is Aubrey's boss and of course back in book one Drew was on this hate Vella campaign for how she treated Aubrey. But hate is not what he is thinking now when it comes to Vella Dawn. No he has come to learn the real Vella Dawn. All is going good until Wicked Mother of the world pays a visit. Can Drew handle it? Can Dawn finally live life on her own terms?
This story is sinfully good, sexy, and heartbreaking. I enjoyed reading more about Drew I loved him in book one. There were some grammar issues in this book but they do not take from the story itself.
I would say this book could be read as a stand-alone however you would lose out on another good book if you don't grab book one first.
I was gifted this book for my honest review.
J.L. Leslie
Author: J.L. Leslie
Publication Date: 6/14/2016
Reviewed by: Tammy Payne- Book Nook Nuts
My Rating: 4 Stars
REVIEW
We met Drew and Kammie in a previous book they are heading back and are at the airport when Kammie throws an ultimatum. Well Drew has had enough and all bets are off including wedding, and working for daddy dearest. Drew’s brother got over his insecurities but Kammie just could not. Drew will always be best friends with Aubrey. Now I am living in California and staying in a crap place.
Vella is Aubrey's boss and of course back in book one Drew was on this hate Vella campaign for how she treated Aubrey. But hate is not what he is thinking now when it comes to Vella Dawn. No he has come to learn the real Vella Dawn. All is going good until Wicked Mother of the world pays a visit. Can Drew handle it? Can Dawn finally live life on her own terms?
This story is sinfully good, sexy, and heartbreaking. I enjoyed reading more about Drew I loved him in book one. There were some grammar issues in this book but they do not take from the story itself.
I would say this book could be read as a stand-alone however you would lose out on another good book if you don't grab book one first.
I was gifted this book for my honest review.
J.L. Leslie
June 20, 2016
I was sucked into Drew's Story in Let the Waves Come in and had to read Finding Dawn.
I LOVED IT!
SO Good. Suspenseful, exciting, heartbreaking, funny, real, honest, fun, light-hearted and heavy all at once!
This is a great read and should be read!
I read it on ONE day in between my real life (lol) because I couldn't put it down!
I was kept intrigued and had to know what happened next.
It definitely has some sad, deep things that happen in the characters past and that is why she warns for mature content , so know that going in.
That stuff doesn't ever bother me though because its real. Terrible things happen to people in real life and I LOVE reading stories where teh characters figure it out, overcome and become better and stronger.
Anyway I absolutely say you need to read this.
A.Hart
Contemporary Romance Author
*Braver With You
*Stronger By Your Side
*Safer In Your Arms
I LOVED IT!
SO Good. Suspenseful, exciting, heartbreaking, funny, real, honest, fun, light-hearted and heavy all at once!
This is a great read and should be read!
I read it on ONE day in between my real life (lol) because I couldn't put it down!
I was kept intrigued and had to know what happened next.
It definitely has some sad, deep things that happen in the characters past and that is why she warns for mature content , so know that going in.
That stuff doesn't ever bother me though because its real. Terrible things happen to people in real life and I LOVE reading stories where teh characters figure it out, overcome and become better and stronger.
Anyway I absolutely say you need to read this.
A.Hart
Contemporary Romance Author
*Braver With You
*Stronger By Your Side
*Safer In Your Arms
July 10, 2016
I did not think it was possible to love this book more than Let The Waves Come In, but I just might!
J.L Leslie ramped up the drama in this second novel, and did not disappoint.
Drew moves to California to be near his brother, Declan, and best friend Aubrey after a rather messy breakup. There's nothing about this move that is clean or easy. The term "clean break" isn't one that applies to Drew.
J.l does a fantastic job giving her characters depth and relatability, even to characters you normally wouldn't relate to (super model and CEO Vella, for example.)
If you love romance with some fun twists and a bit of angst, Finding Dawn is the perfect book for you!
J.L Leslie ramped up the drama in this second novel, and did not disappoint.
Drew moves to California to be near his brother, Declan, and best friend Aubrey after a rather messy breakup. There's nothing about this move that is clean or easy. The term "clean break" isn't one that applies to Drew.
J.l does a fantastic job giving her characters depth and relatability, even to characters you normally wouldn't relate to (super model and CEO Vella, for example.)
If you love romance with some fun twists and a bit of angst, Finding Dawn is the perfect book for you!
August 7, 2016
This is the fist book I've read by J.L Leslie and I must say I thoroughly enjoyed it!
From the first chapter I was hooked!
The plot twists are brilliant, the writing is amazing and the characters are incredible.
Wow... Vella's mother is absolutely awful! I've never been filled with so much hate for a character... She's truly and utterly horrific!
Vella is a hard one... She's a raging b*tch, yet at the same time she's warm and loving... And obviously gorgeous! I love how Drew has brought out her warmer side!
Drew... What to say?!?! He is hot, kind, loving and an all round nice guy! Who still can make you swoon!
A brilliant book that I will be recommending to people!
#2OCCAB
From the first chapter I was hooked!
The plot twists are brilliant, the writing is amazing and the characters are incredible.
Wow... Vella's mother is absolutely awful! I've never been filled with so much hate for a character... She's truly and utterly horrific!
Vella is a hard one... She's a raging b*tch, yet at the same time she's warm and loving... And obviously gorgeous! I love how Drew has brought out her warmer side!
Drew... What to say?!?! He is hot, kind, loving and an all round nice guy! Who still can make you swoon!
A brilliant book that I will be recommending to people!
#2OCCAB
June 16, 2016
I can highly recommend this book to everyone who loves a good love story. Drew moves to California after breaking up with his fiancé. Soon he meets the beautiful girl dawn. Dawn is a top model and she also runs her own company. With a mother from hell her life is far from easy. Drew makes her relax and and he also shows her that she can feel normal. But can they make it work ? This book are incredible so much is happening and I couldn't put it away. Drew is a fantastic guy and I fell sorry for Dawn. This is an amazing author and I can wait to read more from her.
July 12, 2016
This book is a great read. The story has a great flow and it is well written. Vella and Drew make a great couple. They will definitely leave you wanting more. Give this book a try. Also reviewed by Heather Ann's Book Reviews.
Read
January 28, 2022I have an extreme love/hate relationship with this book. As a stand-alone book, it is a great dark romance with plenty of twists. However, the dark aspects of this book are not even remotely alluded to in the book blurb, which initially made me react quite negatively to the story. I truly enjoyed the book that preceded this novel (giving it 5 stars) and described it as a “feel good” book. Finding Dawn takes on a drastically different tone. This book is very gritty, including some graphic violence.
If I work hard at trying to parse out my initial negative reactions, I think this is a compelling story. I liked how a lot of the unexpected twists contrast the overly predictable beginning. I find that this pacing strategy enhanced the drama.
If I work hard at trying to parse out my initial negative reactions, I think this is a compelling story. I liked how a lot of the unexpected twists contrast the overly predictable beginning. I find that this pacing strategy enhanced the drama.
March 10, 2022
Great read
When Drew's relationship brakes down with Kammie he packs up and leaves New York. Bringing him closer to his best friend and brother.
Vella is a top model, along with her mother. But the only way she thinks she can stay there is to do as her mother says, at a young tender age she had to do things on her mother's day so. Then she ups and leaves Vella to go it alone. Building a successful business.
Drew and Vella have a chance meeting and hit it off. With ex's involved anything can happen.
I absolutely loved Drew his such a nice guy, maybe to nice. I came to understand Vella, with everything that has happened, all I can say to the mother is karma's a bitch. This book is deffo worth a read.
When Drew's relationship brakes down with Kammie he packs up and leaves New York. Bringing him closer to his best friend and brother.
Vella is a top model, along with her mother. But the only way she thinks she can stay there is to do as her mother says, at a young tender age she had to do things on her mother's day so. Then she ups and leaves Vella to go it alone. Building a successful business.
Drew and Vella have a chance meeting and hit it off. With ex's involved anything can happen.
I absolutely loved Drew his such a nice guy, maybe to nice. I came to understand Vella, with everything that has happened, all I can say to the mother is karma's a bitch. This book is deffo worth a read.
March 6, 2022
Sweet torture
This books hits the nail on the head with the anguish a model can go through as well as what greed and prestige can make a person do. Drew and Vella show that when you find someone you may have a struggle to keep it up. My only sad part was the struggle that Drew and Aubrey faced when having separate relationships wasn't addressed in this book, like it was in Aubrey and Declan story.
This books hits the nail on the head with the anguish a model can go through as well as what greed and prestige can make a person do. Drew and Vella show that when you find someone you may have a struggle to keep it up. My only sad part was the struggle that Drew and Aubrey faced when having separate relationships wasn't addressed in this book, like it was in Aubrey and Declan story.
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